Tag Archives: Gabriel Bracero

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ATLANTIC CITY BOARDWALK BOXING FEATURING LAMANNA VS. BRACERO WRAPS UP FACEBOOK FIGHTNIGHT LIVE WEEKEND TRIPLEHEADER ON SATURDAY

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Ray Flores and Paulie Malignaggi call the action live from the boardwalk; Ten month-old fan-friendly fight series averages 88,952 views per show and recently eclipsed 1,000,000-view milestone
NEW YORK (Feb. 21, 2018) – Recently reaching 1,000,000 views for the series, Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE looks to establish another benchmark this Friday–Saturday, Feb. 23-24, with back-to-back-to-back shows spanning from the casinos of New England to the Boardwalk of Atlantic City. A red-hot card from the Jersey Shore caps the epic weekend, as the fan-friendly streaming service partners with Rising Star Promotions on Saturday night, Feb. 24. Fans from across the globe can catch seven bouts beginning at 7 p.m. wherever Facebook is available, including a crossroads main event battle featuring Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (25-2, 9 KOs) and Gabriel “Tito” Bracero (24-3, 5 KOs).
“We’re excited to be taking this next step for the series, and to be capping the weekend with an outstanding card that will delight fight fans, called by Ray Flores and Paulie Malignaggi,” said Mark Fratto, Principal of Linacre Media. “Boardwalk Boxing at The Showboat will be back in a big way on Saturday night with names like LaManna, Bracero, Rainone, Julan, Varmall and hot prospects and local favorites all displaying their talents and passion on Facebook. As a bonus, we’re proud to produce the PPV and pro debut of Mike Rashid, who has conquered the worlds of fitness and digital media and is looking to do big things in the fight game.”
In the main event on Saturday night, New Jersey’s LaManna fights for the 19th time in the shore town, as he takes on the battle tested, Brooklyn-based Bracero. The card will feature some of the best prospects in the region that includes Jahmal Dyer of Baltimore, Md. (4-0, 2 KOs), Donald “No Love” Smith (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia, Frederick Julan (8-0, 6 KOs) of Brooklyn and Alvin Varmall, Jr. (14-0, 12 KOs) of Catskill, N.Y.
“We are excited to be bringing this great event and our first Boardwalk Boxing card from The Showboat to the fans all over the world on FIGHTNIGHT Live.  We have a main event that everyone is talking about, and we are featuring some terrific prospects on an outstanding undercard,” said Debbie LaManna, President of Rising Star Promotions.
Over the first nine-plus months of programming, the numbers on the 12-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series have showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of close to 90,000 fight fans tuning in per event and more than one-million fans served.
The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) all topped 150,000 views, and collectively the 12-show series saw a total of more than 21,000 total hours of Facebook video consumed by 1,067,435-plus users across all devices.
In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 142,000 collective live post engagements (nearly 12,000 per show), including almost 97,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 22,000 comments and almost 6,000 shares.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcasts are viewed by 76 percent men, 24 percent women. The top demographic is comprised of males ages 25-34, which encompasses approximately 30.0 percent of the audience, on average.
The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 views and the Sept. 15-16 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Feb. 10 Hard-Hitting Promotions “Philly Fight Night” show stands out individually with 3,421 live hours of content viewed, while the Sept. 15 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves.”
The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 80,000 fans and more than 82,000 followers. And Facebook itself has taken notice – the world’s No. 1 social network recently profiled FIGHTNIGHT LIVE on its “Success Stories” media blog, noting the series’ use of industry best practices for production and interactivity:
            Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has been delivered to fans absolutely free since its May 2017 launch courtesy of series corporate partners like Elite Heat Water, Montauk Iced Tea (montaukbev.com), Mr. Custom Made(mrcustommade.com) and BallWash (ballwash.com).
On Saturday night, Feb. 24, live from live from The Showboat in Atlantic City, N.J., fans can expect a high-impact, multi-camera streaming experience complete with graphics, animations, replays, interviews and an announce team anchored by blow-by-blow announcer Ray Flores of Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime Boxing, HBO Boxing and CBS Sports Network and former IBF and WBA World Champion Paulie Malignaggi, now of Showtime, Sky Sports and CBS Sports Network. To provide spectators with a fully-interactive ringside experience, commentators will ask and respond to questions from the Facebook audience throughout the broadcast.
Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.
More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Winter/Spring 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/
Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on
Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.
boxing

J Russell Peltz reflects on his favorite fights in Atlantic City

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Peltz is the matchmaker for February 24th card at The Showboat Hotel featuring Thomas LaManna and Gabriel Bracero

ATLANTIC CITY – February 20, 2018 – Boxing in Atlantic City has been prevalent for more than 45 years. One man who has been in the center of a lot of the action on the boardwalk has been International Boxing and Atlantic City Boxing Hall-of-Fame promoter and matchmaker J Russell Peltz.

The Philadelphia legend, who has promoted scores of cards in the shore town, is making matches for the February 24 card at The Showboat Hotel that will feature Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna vs. Gabriel “Tito” Bracero in a 10-round battle for the WBC Fecarbox Welterweight championship.

“I did my first fight in 1973,” said Peltz, who has run shows in just about every property in Atlantic City.

It is only fitting that Peltz is the matchmaker with promoter Rising Star Promotions in the South Jersey based promotional outfit’s effort to bring Atlantic City back to prominence as the the premier fight destination on the East Coast.

Peltz is hoping LaManna-Bracero is added to the memorable bouts that Peltz has been involved in Atlantic City:

1. August 31, 1981 at The Sands Hotel–Frank Fletcher vs Ernie Singletary.(PRISM)

“The fight was televised by local cable channel PRISM (Jim Barniak and Bob Wright, both deceased, did the commentary) and it was for Fletcher’s USBA middleweight title.

“This was the most brutal fight I ever saw, even more brutal than Matthew Saad Muhammad-Marvin Johnson I. This was a closet classic since few saw it on PRISM. The fight was toe-to-toe for seven rounds, no knockdowns, until ringside doctor stopped it between the seventh and eighth round. They could have fought this one in a phone booth.

“Singletary was taken to hospital after fight.

“Later, when we couldn’t find Fletcher, we broke into his hotel room, and he was out cold on the floor. We couldn’t get an ambulance so we (Marty Feldman and I) put him in the back of a police wagon and rode with him to the hospital where the doctor told us if we hadn’t found him he would have been dead.

“Singletary kept saying in the pre-fight buildup that no 12-2 TV fighter was gonna beat him. This was a reference to Fletcher getting into the first ESPN tournament and winning while Singletary had been plying his trade for years (24-2 then) and never got that kind of exposure, just on PRISM. Actually, Fletcher already had been on NBC once, beating Norberto Sabater.”

2. September 9, 1980 from Resorts–Mike Rossman vs. Al Bolden (PRISM)

“Ex-WBA light-heavyweight Rossman was getting beat up every round for 8 1/2 rounds against Al Bolden, of Pittsburgh, PA, and finally found a little light late in round 9 and came on to knock Bolden out at 2:32 of the 10th round and salvage the win. Bolden took the second knockdown in the 10th on his knees.”

3. March 13, 1983 from Resorts–Jeff Chandler – Gaby Canizalez (ABC)

“Jeff Chandler, in the most brilliant performance of his Hall-of-Fame career out-boxed, out-punched and out-muscled future champion Gaby Canizales, of Texas, over 15 rounds to defend his WBA bantamweight title for the seventh time by unanimous decision. No one thought he could stand up under Canizales’ body attack but it was Chandler’s body and head attack that kept Canizales at bay for the entire fight. Just magnificent.”

4. March 2, 1985 from the Sands Hotel–Gary Hinton vs Aaron Pryor (ABC)

“Unknown lefty Gary Hinton gave IBF 140 pound world champ Aaron Pryor all he could handle, but a 14th-round knockdown helped Pryor gain a 15-round split decision with Sylvester Stallone in attendance. He was our partner at the time with Pryor. It was Pryor’s last successful title defense.”

5. November 19, 2011 from Ballys–Garrett Wilson vs. Chuck Mussachio

“Moving from light heavyweight to cruiserweight, Mussachio appeared to have out-boxed Wilson for 11 rounds in their USBA cruiserweight title fight, but Wilson drilled Mussachhio with a monstrous overhand right 41 seconds into the 12th round for the knockout win.”

Besides LaManna vs. Bracero, a terrific undercard has been assembled featuring undefeated fighters: light-heavyweight Frederick Julan (8-0, 6 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY; super middleweight Darren Goodall (5-0, 4 KOs), of New Milford, NJ; middleweight Omar Kabary Salem (1-0), of Brooklyn, NY; super lightweight Jahmal Dyer (4-0, 2 KOs), of Baltimore, MD.

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS: $150, $80 and $55 and can be purchased at: www.risingboxingpromotions.com

For more information and media credentials, Contact: Marc Abrams at phillyboxing@gmail.com or 856 287 7611
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Local standouts highlight loaded undercard for Inaugural Boardwalk Boxing card on Saturday, February 24th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City

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Undefeated fighters Darren Goodall, Jahmal Dyer, Frederick Julan, Donald Smith, Omar Kabary Salem highlight packed night of boxing
Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna battles Gabriel Bracero in welterweight main event
 
ATLANTIC CITY – January 18 2018 – A massive undercard featuring some of the brightest prospects and fan favorites in the tri-state area will be on display on Saturday night,February 24th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City.
The inaugural Boardwalk Boxing card is promoted by Rising Star Promotions.
Last week a mouth watering main event was announced that will pit  Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna taking on Gabriel “Tito” Bracero in a ten-round battle for the WBC Fecarbox Welterweight title.
A trio of six-round bouts will top a ten-bout undercard.
Tommy Rainone (26-8-2, 6 KOs) of Farmingdale, NY will take on Eduardo Flores (23-29-3, 14 KOs) of Quito, Ecuador in a welterweight bout.
Undefeated light heavyweight Frederick Julan (8-0, 6 KOs) of Brooklyn, NY via Paris, France will take part in a bout against an opponent to be named.
Undefeated super middleweight Darren Goodall (5-0, 4 KOs) of New Milford, NJ will fight veteran Edgar Perez (7-22, 3 KOs) of Chicago.
In four-round bouts:
Bryne Green (7-10-1, 3 KOs) of Paulsboro, NJ will fight Tyrone Luckey (8-8-3, 6 KO’s) in a battle of New Jersey based junior lightweights
Jahmal Dyer (4-0, 2 Kos) of Baltimore, MD will take on an opponent to be named in a lightweight bout.
Undefeated junior lightweight Donald Smith (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Andrew Bentley (3-2) of Jersey City, NJ.
Mike Rashid of Tucson, AZ will make his pro debut against Demetrius Shaw (0-2) of Wilson, NC in heavyweight bout.
Ernesto Perez of Vineland, NJ will make his pro debut against Steve Moore (0-2) of Orange, NJ in a welterweight tussle.
Omar Kabary Salem (1-0) of Brooklyn, NY will fight pro debuting Cory Weekley of Philadelphia in a middleweight bout.
Osnel Charles (11-8-1 KO) of Atlantic City, NJ boxes against Laquan Lewis (2-8) of Brooklyn, NY in a junior welterweight tilt.
Tickets are available for $150, $80 and $55, and can be purchased online at www.risingboxingpromotions.com.
This event is sponsored by Acos Energy, Designer Wraps, Eat Clean Bro, Calvi Electric, and Alpha Academy.
For more information, ‘Like’ Rising Star Promotions on Facebook.
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Thomas LaManna battles Gabriel Bracero for WBC Fecarbox Welterweight title in inaugural main event of Boardwalk Boxing on Saturday, February 24th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City

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Anthony Young fights Khiary Gray in co-feature
ATLANTIC CITY – January 8, 2018 – Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will headline the inaugural Boardwalk Boxing series when he takes the battle-tested veteran Gabriel Bracero in a ten-round welterweight bout for the WBC Fecarbox welterweight title on Saturday, February 24th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City.
The bout will be the main event of a huge night of boxing promoted by Rising Star Promotions
The new Boardwalk Boxing series, which was announced last week, promised high-quality matchups, while featuring the best local fighters.
LaManna, 26, of Millville, New Jersey has an impressive mark of 25-2 with nine knockouts.
The popular LaManna has led the revival of boxing in Atlantic City as his Rising Star Promotions has become the preeminent promoter in Atlantic City.
LaManna consistently has performed as a headliner in front of sell out crowds is eager to thrill fans, and potentially notch the biggest win of his career.
“This is a crossroads fight.  He needs a win over me to stay relevant, and I need a win over him to be taken serious,” said LaManna.  “Bracero has fought some top guys.  His losses have been to world champions and Gold Medal winners.  He has been around the block.”
“I want to start 2018 with a good test.  I want to test myself.  When I go through a hard camp, dieting and focusing, I want it to be worth it.”
“This should be a great atmosphere as he is a popular fighter like myself.  A win over him will give me an opportunity as I will move up in the ratings.  This is a make or break year, and a win will put me in there with other contenders.”
LaManna will celebrate his 7th year as a professional, as he has wins over Kendal Mena (20-3), as well as winning the WBC Silver Latino and WBC FECARBOX Welterweight titles with a ten-round unanimous decision over rugged George Sosa.
In his last bout, LaManna defended the WBC FECARBOX title with a ten-round unanimous decision over Samuel Amoako on November 28th in Atlantic City.
This will be LaManna’s 18th fight in Atlantic City.
Bracero of Brooklyn, New York has an impressive mark of 24-3 with five knockouts.
Bracero, who will be 38 on February 14th has faced and defeated some impressive foes over his 17 year-career.
Bracero win his first 18 bouts which were highlighted by wins over Winston Mathis (6-0), Danny O’Connor (14-0), Guillermo Valdes (12-3), Jermaine White (17-4), former world totle challenger Dmitry Salita (35-1-1), and a sensational 1st round stoppage over O’Connor (26-2) in the rematch.
Bracero is coming off a ten-round unanimous decision defeat to former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi on July 30, 2016 in Brooklyn, New York
“This will be a good fight.  He is a tough kid.  He is tall, and I will get into the best shape possible,” said Bracero.
“I am excited to finally be fighting in Atlantic City.  I have family there, plus my fans from Brooklyn can drive there and spend a nice weekend. “
“This fight is a true crossroads battle. He is looking to make his name off of me, and I am focusing on winning his WBC Fecarbox title.  A win will get me back into the bigger fights.
Also announced is a terrific co-feature bout that will see Anthony “Juice” Young of Atlantic City battling Khiary Gray or Worcester, Massachusetts.
Young, 29, has a record of 18-2 with six knockouts.
The seven-year professional will be looking for his eighth consecutive victory.  The Atlantic City favorite has a quality win over Jose Javier Claderon (4-1), and will be making his 12th start in his hometown.
Pitts has an impressive mark of 15-3 with eleven knockouts.
The 25 year-old New Englander won his first 13 bouts.  The four-year professional is a former UBF International Super Welterweight champion, and in his last bout he won the Interim New England Super Welterweight title with an eight-round majority decision over Greg Jackson on December 7, 2017 in Lincoln, Rhode Island.
There will be an announcement about the full undercard shortly.
Tickets are available for $155, $80 and $55, and can be purchased online at www.risingboxingpromotions.com.
This event is sponsored by Acos Energy, Designer Wraps, Eat Clean Bro, Calvi Electric, and Alpha Academy.
For more information, ‘Like’ Rising Star Promotions on Facebook.
For Media Credentials, Contact:
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ENCORE PRESENTATION OF CARL FRAMPTON vs. LEO SANTA CRUZ FIGHT OF THE YEAR CONTENDER TO AIR TONIGHT AT 11 P.M. ET/PT ON SHOWTIME EXTREME®

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Saturday’s Instant Classic SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Event Available On SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®

 

WATCH A VIDEO PREVIEW: http://s.sho.com/2aptNld

Photo Credit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Last Saturday’s instant classic “Fight of the Year” contender between Carl Frampton and Leo Santa Cruz will re-air tonight at 11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.  The thrilling SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event had the Barclays Center rocking as Frampton narrowly edged Santa Cruz in a toe-to-toe battle to dethrone the defending WBA Featherweight World Champion.

 

Monday’s encore presentation of the entire three-fight telecast also features Mikey Garcia’s emphatic return to the ring and Tony Harrison’s title eliminator victory in the stacked 154-pound division.  The SHOWTIME Sports®presentation is also available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND and SHOWTIME ANYTIME.

 

# # #

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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CARL FRAMPTON EDGES LEO SANTA CRUZ IN POTENTIAL FIGHT OF THE YEAR SHOOTOUT TO WIN FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® AT

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BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

 

Mikey Garcia Stamps His Return With Explosive Knockout Of Elio Rojas In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature: Click HERE For Video

 

Catch The Replay This Monday, Aug. 1 At 11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME

 

Click HERE For Photos From Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME (Full Gallery Coming Soon)

 

Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

Click HERE For Photos From Andy Samuelson/Premier Boxing Champions

 

BROOKLYN (July 31, 2016) – In a possible “Fight of the Year” showdown between two undefeated fighters, Carl Frampton edged Leo Santa Cruz in a firefight to capture the WBA Featherweight World Championship in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Saturday in front of 9,062 fans at the electric Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

 

Frampton (23-0, 14 KOs), the former unified super bantamweight champion who moved up to 126 pounds to challenge Santa Cruz (32-1-1, 18 KOs), became the first native of Northern Ireland to become a two-division world champion.

 

The majority decision, scored 114-114 draw, 116-112 and 117-111, was fought at a blistering pace from the outset.

 

Santa Cruz’s hallmark has always been his high-octane output and power punching, but the three-division world champion was unable to utilize his reach advantage, and his activity was eliminated by Frampton’s tremendous counterpunching and power shots.  While both fighters are top 10 in the world in jabs, a staggering 402 of their 497 combined landed punches were power shots.

 

While Santa Cruz landed almost equal the amount of power shots – 206 vs. 191 – the 46 percent that Frampton connected on appeared to land cleaner and inflict more damage. And while Santa Cruz was the taller fighter, he lunged forward and fought short on the inside, allowing Frampton to minimize the reach and contest the battle toe-to-toe, where it suited him best.

 

“It’s a dream come true,” said Frampton. “I had the dream of winning a world title and I won it, but I never thought I’d win in two divisions.  It was a tough fight, I wanted it to be a tough fight because I wanted a fight the people could remember.  I respect him a lot.  He was a true warrior.

 

“I had a good game plan.  Shane was an unbelievable coach.  He told me every time I came back into the corner that we could win this a lot easier. But I won it with my heart, not with my head and I got my hand raised.

 

“Distance control and hitting hard were the keys. I won the fight because I didn’t lose control.  I earned his respect early in the fight with my distance control and hard punching.  I would love to take this man to Belfast for a rematch and show the people there what a great fighter he is.”

 

In calling out the other champions at 126 pounds – including IBF champion Lee Selby and WBC champion Gary Russell Jr, who were both in attendance – Frampton said: “I want big, memorable fights.” Click HERE for Frampton’s full post fight interview.

 

Santa Cruz, who captured belts at 118, 122 and 126 pounds, disagreed with decision but agreed with Frampton’s wish for a rematch.

 

“It was a tough fight from the beginning,” Santa Cruz said.  “We knew it was going to be a tough fight, but I thought it was close when I was in there throwing.  Maybe the judges were hearing the crowd and thought that every little punch was scoring.

 

“He has a difficult style, but we know his style and will get him in the rematch.  The crowd was cheering, and I think the judges saw that.  Maybe, without that, we would have had a draw or maybe a decision.

 

“It’s hard to get your first loss, but now we’ll go back to the gym, we’ll get the rematch and we’ll win.  And that loss will mean nothing.  I want to have a rematch in Los Angeles, but I’ll go to Belfast too.”

 

Undefeated former two-division world champion Mikey Garcia returned to the ring in impressive fashion after a two-and-a-half year absence, flooring former titlist Elio Rojas four times en route to a fifth round TKO (2:02).

 

Garcia (35-0, 29 KOs) showed no signs of ring rust as he stalked forward from the opening bell.  The former 126 and 130-pound titlist and pound-for-pound mainstay floored Rojas (24-3, 14 KOs) midway through the third with a right-left combo, sending the Dominican to the canvas for just the second time in his career.  Rojas beat the count, but a monster right sent him falling face-forward less than one minute later for the second knockdown of the round.  Again, the durable Rojas continued to come forward as Garcia teed-off.

 

Rojas was tagged again midway through the fifth with a huge right, falling to the canvas for the third time in fight.  Now bleeding from his nose, Rojas was knocked down again just seconds later by a brutal right uppercut from Garcia.  Again, Rojas beat the count, but looked defeated and referee Eddie Claudio stopped the fight.

 

“The two-and-a-half-year layoff sparked a fire in me and motivated me to do the best that I could,” said Garcia, who landed 50 percent of his power shots.  “Elio is a tough guy and a former world champion. He didn’t come for a paycheck; he came to win.

 

“Elio took advantage of the opportunity. But we trained for a great performance like this and I was thrilled to get the job done. It felt great to be here with a supportive crowd behind me. I’m looking forward to getting back in there and winning another world title.”

 

Despite the four knockdowns, Rojas disagreed with the stoppage and wanted to continue fighting.

 

“I was able to get off the canvas because I trained so hard,” Rojas said.  “Mikey is just stronger. I’m a natural 126-pounder fighting above my weight.  It was a great matchup and Mikey is a great fighter. I have no doubt that he is going to take over the division.

 

“I was very upset when the fight was stopped. I wanted to keep going because I have a champion’s heart and I never want to quit.”

 

Once-beaten 154-pound contender Tony Harrison secured the IBF’s No. 2 position with a ninth round TKO (1:18) of Sergey Rabchenko in the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.

 

Harrison (24-1, 20 KOs) is now ranked No. 2 behind IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and No. 1 mandatory challenger Julian Williams, who have agreed to fight later this year.

 

Harrison set up the distance with his jab, controlled the pace and outpunched Rabchenko (27-2, 20 KOs) by a nearly 2-1 margin.  He was breaking Rabchenko down with a steady diet of power shots and well-timed jabs when he floored the Belarus native with a sharp right hand one minute into the ninth.  Rabchenko got up, but looked defeated and unsteady on his feet, forcing referee Arthur Mercante to halt the contest.

 

Harrison landed 11 of 40 jabs per round on top of an impressive 46 percent of his power shots.

 

“This is definitely my biggest win ever,” Harrison said. “I was luring him to sleep. My trainer told me that I would have the right hand behind the jab and that’s what happened.  I’m a finisher. I had him hurt and I said to the ref ‘you better not let him go.’ I knew I had him beat.

 

“A focused Tony Harrison can beat anybody at 154-pounds. Now it’s on Jermall Charlo and Julian Williams. I’m in the catbird seat.”

 

Rabcheko threw an average of only 31 punches per round, connecting just seven per round.

“I didn’t throw enough punches,” Rabchenko admitted.  “I kept relying on my defense and didn’t attack enough. I was looking for one shot and it was difficult to do it against Tony Harrison with one punch.  The ref did a great job with the stoppage. My health is first and foremost. The health of any fighter is the most important thing. I knew I couldn’t continue.”

 

Former two-division world champion and SHOWTIME analyst Paulie Malignaggi won a 10-round unanimous decision over fellow Brooklynite Gabriel Bracero in the “Battle for Brooklyn.”  The welterweight bout was scored 96-94 and 98-92 twice.

 

“The Magic Man” stuck to his usual game plan, jabbing at range and utilizing his reach advantage against the naturally smaller Bracero, who was unable to get inside against the master technician.  Malinaggi (36-7, 7 KOs) dictated the pace and was the more effective fighter, landing 35 percent of his total punches compared to 29 for Bracero (24-3, 5 KOs).  Malignaggi dominated with the jab, landing 11 per round, which is double the welterweight average.

 

“I knew Bracero was a counter-puncher like myself. I was just trying to be the sharper counter-puncher. We both try to set traps and I just wanted to make him earn any points that he got. At the same time, I felt like I had to earn my points. I dictated the fight with pot shots and stepping over.

 

“I didn’t want to get desperate. I wanted to force him to get desperate from being behind on the scorecards. I think I did a good job of that.  As the fight went on, I just used my movement and feints to stay in control.

 

“The plan was to keep it simple – if he didn’t adjust to any traps, then I was going to keep using them.  I kept it as simple as I could against a guy who if you complicate things, he will catch you. He’s a counter-puncher who can make you pay. “

 

Later in the evening, Malignaggi returned to his ringside position as commentator for the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.

 

“I’m excited to call the fights tonight,” Malignaggi said.  “I’m a fan before I’m a fighter. I’m excited to go to work right now.”

 

In the opening bout on SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME, Philadelphia’s Tevin Farmerwon his 15th consecutive fight with an impressive 10-round unanimous decision over previously once-beaten lightweight Ivan Redkach, scored, 99-89, 98-90 twice.

 

Fighting on his 26th birthday, Farmer (22-4-1, 5 KOs) was the more effective fighter from the start.  He was able to fight on the inside against the naturally bigger Redkach (19-2-1, 15 KOs), who’s only defeat had come in a 2015 title eliminator against current WBC Lightweight World Champion Dejan Zlaticanin.

 

Farmer, who’s winning streak dates back to a 2012 loss to current 130-pound titlist Jose Pedraza, landed 42 percent of his power punches compared to just 19 percent for Redkach, who landed just 16 percent of his total punches.

 

“I’m proud of my performance tonight,” Farmer said.  “I was very confident that I would be victorious as long as I executed the game plan and that’s what I did. I want a world title. I’m going to go back to 130-pounds and I feel like I’m ready for a title shot. If I have to fight an eliminator I will. I won’t back down from any challenge.

 

“I beat him down. I was the more experienced fighter and I came in with more rounds and with better opponents on my resume.”

 

Both fighters were deducted a point, Farmer in the eighth for a low blow and Redkach in the ninth for an intentional head butt.

 

The SHOWTIME EXTREME telecast also featured highlights of WBO Featherweight World Champion Amanda Serrano as she dropped Colombia’s Calixta Silgado twice on her way to a first round stoppage.

 

Serrano (29-1-1, 22 KOs) defended her title in the first women’s world championship bout at Barclays Center and made quick work of the challenger. Serrano swarmed Silgado (14-7-3, 9 KOs) from the start with strong combinations and powerful hooks. Silgado was able to recover from the first knockdown but was quickly smothered by Serrano, who sent her to the canvas and forced referee Benjy Esteves to halt the bout 1:41 into round one.

 

“I just wanted to get in there and show the fans and everybody out there that women can fight,” said Serrano. “We have talent as well. The sky is the limit. I want more belts. I’m going to drop down to 122-pounds and become a four-division world champion like Miguel Cotto.”

 

Featherweight World Champions Lee Selby and Gary Russell Jr. were interviewed by SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® host Brian Custer during the SHOWTIME® telecast.  See below for quote excerpts:

 

Lee Selby: “Look, it isn’t my nature to call anyone out.  But I know that these guys are looking to fight me, so I will accept the offer with open hands.  In the build up to this fight, Leo Santa Cruz says he’ll fight me too.  So, I accept both challenges.”

 

Gary Russell Jr.: “I want all of the above.  I want to address something that that Lee Selby said. He said that no one knows who Gary Russell is.  Well, everyone knows who the WBC featherweight champ is, and it’s Mr. Gary Russell.  We are both men and I expect you to conduct yourself as a man.  Don’t use this as an out to try to avoid fighting me.”

 

Lee Selby: “I can clarify.  Back home, Carl Frampton is a huge name. A fight between he and I would be bigger, that’s what I was saying.”

 

Gary Russell Jr.: “Look, I like the IBF belt.  I want to add it to my collection.  And as for Leo Santa Cruz, he wants to avenge the loss I gave him in amateurs.  So, me and Leo, we can make it happen.”

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will re-air on Monday, Aug. 1 at 11 p.m. ET/PT.  The SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME telecast will re-air on Wednesday, Aug. 3 at 11:05 p.m. ET/PT.

 

The evet was presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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“PAULIE MALIGNAGGI: DEAR BOXING” PENS OPEN LETTER SHARING HIS INTIMATE THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS ON WHY HE KEEPS FIGHTING

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cid:image006.jpg@01D1E983.E4379310

 

Photo by Amanda Westcott / SHOWTIME

 

CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO

 

“Boxing Gave Me Things I Couldn’t imagine. Boxing Let Me Dream. That’s What I’m Fighting For: That Chance To Dream Again.”

Veteran boxer, a former two-division world champion, Paulie Malignaggi pens an open letter to the sport of boxing as the Magic Man prepares to step into the ring once more on Saturday night.

 

Malignaggi (35-7, 7 KOs) will face Gabriel Bracero in a 10-round welterweight bout between fellow Brooklynite in the SHOWTIME EXTREME® main event tomorrow, Saturday live at 7 p.m. ET/PT from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

 

Malignaggi explains in the letter why he keeps on climbing into the ring: “I know fighters don’t age gracefully,” he says. “I know fighters get hurt. But I also know in my heart, I gotta fight. At least one more time. Why? I’ll tell you why: Love.”

 

After his bout, Malignaggi, also a SHOWTIME Sports® boxing analyst, plans to join the announce team and call the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader featuring featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz defending against N. Ireland’s Carl Frampton and the return of  undefeated and former two-division champion Mikey Garcia facing ex-champion Elio Rojas, live onSHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

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Leo Santa Cruz vs. Carl Frampton  Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Stacked Night of Boxing at Barclays Center in Brooklyn Highlighted by SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®Tripleheader
 
Live On SHOWTIME®, This Saturday, July 30 At 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Preliminary Fights Begin At 7 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®
 
Click HERE For Photos From Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE For Photos From Andy Samuelson/Premier Boxing Champions
 
BROOKLYN (July 28, 2016) – Undefeated three-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz and undefeated former unified 122-pound world champion Carl Frampton went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their featherweight world title clash that headlines a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader this Saturday, July 30 live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Televised coverage begins on SHOWTIMEat 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features undefeated former world champion Mikey Garcia taking on former world champion Elio Rojas in the co-main event,plus once-beaten contenders Tony Harrison and Sergey Rabchenko in a junior middleweight title eliminator.
Two-time world champion Paulie Malignaggi meets fellow Brooklynite Gabriel Bracero in the SHOWTIME EXTREME main event. Coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/PT with a lightweight battle between Ivan Redkach and Tevin Farmer.
Tickets for the live event, which is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions, start at $38 and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
The fighters spoke to media Thursday at the Dream Hotel Downtown in Manhattan. Here is what the participants had to say:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“I’m glad that my whole family is here and I’m thankful to my whole team that got me ready for this opportunity.
“I’m so happy to have my dad here. We thought about not taking this fight when he got the [cancer] diagnosis. He’s always been there with me since the beginning of my career. Since I was very small. When the doctors told me that he would be in my corner, I was even more ready for this fight.
“I know that this is going to be an interesting fight. We’re both undefeated and we’re going to make it a war. Neither of us wants that first loss. We’re going to leave it all in the ring. This won’t be an easy fight. It’s a 50-50 fight. The fighter who wants it the most will win the night.
“I want boxing fans from every background – Latino people from everywhere – Mexicans, Dominicans, Puerto Ricans – to come out and support me and come watch a great fight on Saturday night.”
CARL FRAMPTON
“I’ve worked very hard in the gym and I feel strong at 126 pounds. This new weight suits me and you will see the result in the ring.
“Nothing can compare to this opportunity. People know me in Belfast, but Leo Santa Cruz is a three-weight world champion who gives me the opportunity to become more well known.
“This fight sells itself. I respect all my opponents until I’m disrespected myself. I respect Leo because of his actions and because of the great fighter that he is.
“I’m a different animal now at 126 pounds. I was only performing at 70 or 80 percent of what my capabilities were. I’m feeling strong and I’m a different fighter. This will be my best performance.
“I’m honored to be on a bill with so many great fighters. There are four fights that could probably top a bill in their own right. I’m honored to be here and I’m going to get the victory on Saturday night.”
MIKEY GARCIA
“It’s been a while since I’ve done this but I’m very excited to be back. I want to thank everyone who helped put this fight together.
“Everybody has said it all. We’re ready. We’re prepared and we’ve had a great training camp. Rojas has the boxing skills to make this complicated.
“I have better skills than any fighter put in front of me. This will be the beginning of the next stage of my career. The most memorable part of my career.”
ELIO ROJAS
“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. I’m really happy about being on this show. In this fight. I know I’m being brought in as an opponent, but I’m going to let the fans know that I’m not just an opponent.
“I know who Mikey Garcia is. I have all the abilities to win on July 30. I’ve always been a boxer who was never protected. I always prepare to win the fight and this will be no exception.”
TONY HARRISON
“I’m just excited to be back on a platform like this. I’m ready put in work. I know my opponent doesn’t speak much English, but I bet he speaks hands.
“No disrespect to Ricky Hatton, because what he’s done for his country and for Rabchenko is amazing, but I don’t care about it at all. Seeing Ricky over there fuels me even more to get the win.
“I just had a son, he’s three months old. He’s my new motivation. We’ve pushed it to the max in training camp. I’m ready to swim with the sharks. I’ve transitioned from a sprinter to a marathon runner. I’m ready to go into the later rounds.
“I’m ready to put Detroit back on the map. One thing you know about Detroit, we’re about that action. On Saturday, we’re coming for it.”
SERGEY RABCHENKO
“This is a very nice country and a great city for boxing. It’s my first time here and it’s very exciting. I’m going to give the fans a really good fight.
“I know my opponent is a young, strong kid fighter and he will be ready. I want him to be ready so that we can give the fans a great show.”
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI
“I hear young guys like Tony Harrison and Tevin Farmer come up here and talk, it reminds me of my young days. The gym I train in down in Miami is full of young guys hungry to break through. That’s the feeling we all used to have in the gym. It starts to rub off on you when you hang around motivated people.
“I need to have great motivation and that fire to return to the top level. I took a couple steps back after the Garcia fight and gradually stepped up. I think Gabe is another step up. He’s a hungry and motivated guy.
“I know Gabriel Bracero, not only as a fighter, but I know his spirit. We came up together in the same generation of New York fighters.
“It’s all love and respect. But this Brooklyn Belt, it looks pretty nice. This is staying here in Bensonhurst.”
GABRIEL BRACERO
“I want to thank Tommy Gallagher, my trainer. He always stood by my side and always believed in me. No matter what the critics said. It’s because of him that I’m standing here now.
“I’ve made mistakes in life. I was away from this sport for a while. Boxing was always my dream though. I stayed focused so that I can come out and do what I’m doing now. Not too many people can bounce back from a situation like that.
“Saturday is a big fight and I’m looking forward to it. I’m really thankful that Paulie gave me this opportunity. I always followed his career and his successes. It was a dream of mine to come out here and have the same success he had. I looked up to him.
“To be here right now and to be able to fight Paulie is incredible. He’s giving me the opportunity to reach his level of success.
“I encourage everyone to come out Saturday night. I’m going to leave my heart in the ring. That Brooklyn Belt is beautiful and I can’t wait to have it around my waist. This is business, not personal. You should get ready to see fireworks.”
IVAN REDKACH
“I’m very thankful to be part of such a great event. I changed a lot about my training heading into this fight. I’ve trained with the great champion Leo Santa Cruz and it has me ready.
“I want to show everyone in the ring what I can do, not up on the stage with my words.”
TEVIN FARMER
“I want to thank my training staff for preparing me for battle Saturday night. I’m thankful for this opportunity.
“This is another chance to show the world who I am. I have about three years with no losses. I started boxing as a hobby. But when I realized how much talent I had, I started training right.
“Since I started taking this sport seriously, I’ve been taking guys out easily. Ivan Redkach will get this work. It’s going to be easy.
“I’m not about talk. A lot of people don’t know who I am, but everyone will know on Saturday night.”
AMANDA SERRANO
“To be here with these great fighters is an amazing opportunity. I’m very honored. I’m ready to fight and successfully defend my title.
“I’m going to show all the critics and non-believers that female fighters have the talent and courage of the male fighters, and we’re here to stay. Come out on Saturday night for a great show.”
BARRY MCGUIGAN, Frampton’s Manager, Former World Champion & Hall of Famer
“We’re delighted to be here in Manhattan for this potential Fight of the Year. The whole team that made this fight happen has been fantastic.
“I just wanted to say that we’re thrilled that Jose Santa Cruz is back on his feet, every one of our families is affected by cancer.
“This is a clash of styles that could make it a fight of the year. We have the utmost respect for Leo Santa Cruz, but we’re here to win and we will win.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“I think that this is the best card that I’ve ever been able to promote. This is the deepest boxing card from top to bottom that I’ve seen.
“Barclays Center has become one of the homes for great boxing. It is the premier venue right now for boxing in this country. The Brooklyn Boxing program is something that Barclays Center is truly committed to.
“If you’re from Brooklyn, then you want that Brooklyn Belt. It’s about carrying the mantle of being that guy from Brooklyn. That’s what both Paulie and Gabe are going to try to do.
“The main event is one of the elite fights that can be made in the sport. These are two amazing fighters. The winner won’t just be a featherweight champion; the winner will have an argument for the pound-for-pound list.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“SHOWTIME has been bringing its viewers the best, most competitive fights of the year, and Saturday will be no exception.
“The 154-pound division is the deepest and hottest in the sport. Tony Harrison and Rabchenko are looking to make their mark and get up to the next level of the division.
“Having Mikey Garcia back is a treat. It’s a big positive for the sports of boxing. Elio Rojas is not just an opponent though. He is tough, he is hungry and I expect this to be an amazing fight as well.
“The main event is again the best versus the best. Two of the most aggressive fighters in any division. There’s nothing else to say about this fight other than that it will be all action. I think this fight could be better than Thurman vs. Porter.
“We’re proudest of all to have the best versus the best. This is what boxing should be. You should be there if you can on Saturdaynight and if not, watch on SHOWTIME, you will not be disappointed.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“This is arguably the strongest card from top to bottom that we’ve had in Brooklyn since we’ve hosted fight cards. This will be a great follow-up to the incredible Thurman vs. Porter fight last fight. We expect another headlining fight that could be a leading contender for Fight of the Year. We are honored to welcome these two great competitors to Brooklyn. They are two of the most exciting fighters in the sport and we wish both of you the best on Saturday.
“Saturday’s card certainly has a Brooklyn flavor to it. It begins with Bensonhurst’s Paulie Malignaggi taking on Gabriel Bracero from Sunset Park with the Brooklyn’s World Championship on the line.
“Amanda Serrano, another Brooklynite, will be the first women ever to defend her title at Barclays Center. We look forward to seeing you in the ring on Saturday night.”
# # #
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
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SHOWTIME SPORTS® VIDEO FEATURES: LEO SANTA CRUZ FIGHTS FOR HIS AILING FATHER; CARL FRAMPTON AIMS TO REPLICATE SUCCESS OF MENTOR BARRY MCGUIGAN

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 Santa Cruz Family Opens Up About Father Jose’s Battle With Cancer

YOUTUBE: http://s.sho.com/2aggcKE

DOWNLOAD: https://we.tl/J0vCnh3Bn7

 

Frampton, & McGuigan Plan For Irish Invasion

YOUTUBE: http://s.sho.com/2aym4k3

DOWNLOAD: https://we.tl/sWZP1GAXgJ

 

As Leo Santa Cruz and Carl Frampton prepare to collide for one of the top spots in the featherweight division this Saturday, the undefeated fighters have plenty of motivation as they approach their marquee summer blockbuster.

 

Boxing has always been a family affair for the Santa Cruz clan, with father Jose leading the charge with the assistance of Leo’s brother, Antonio.  But a frightening diagnosis of cancer has threatened to prevent Jose from manning Leo’s corner for the first time in his career.

 

After unifying the super bantamweight division, Frampton moved up to featherweight for his second fight in the U.S.  And while the Irish sensation aims to become a two-division world champion, he’s also hoping to become a star in America and follow in the footsteps of his mentor, Hall of Famer Barry McGuigan.

 

Check out these intimate SHOWTIME Sports features on Santa Cruz and Frampton as they approach a career-defining moment this Saturday, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

 

#SantaCruzFrampton

 

Tickets for the live event, which is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions, start at $38 and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

 

Undefeated former two-division world champion Mikey Garcia will fight for the first time in two-and-one-half years when he faces Elio Rojas in the co-feature on SHOWTIME. In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast, Tony Harrison and Sergey Rabchenko will meet in a 12-round IBF Junior Middleweight Elimination Bout.

 

An all-Brooklyn showdown between welterweights Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi andGabriel “Tito” Bracero highlights the undercard on SHOWTIME BOXING on SHOWTIME EXTREME®.  A 10-round clash between once-beaten lightweight Ivan Redkach and streaking Tevin Farmer, a winner of 14 straight, will open the SHOWTIME EXTREME®telecast live at 7 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP.  For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @RealCFrampton, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

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Leo Santa Cruz vs. Carl Frampton  Fight Week Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Featherweight World Title Clash Headlines
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® This Saturday, July 30
From Barclays Center Live on SHOWTIME®
(9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT)
 
Action Begins on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 7 p.m. ET/PT
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (July 27, 2016) – Undefeated featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz and undefeated former unified 122-pound world champion, Irish star Carl Frampton, were joined by undercard fighters in Manhattan at Church Street BoxingWednesday for the final media workout before Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME following fights on SHOWTIME EXTREME that begin at 7 p.m. ET/PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Cyclone Promotions, start at $38 and can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
In attendance Wednesday and fighting on SHOWTIME wereundefeated two-division world champion Mikey Garcia and former world champion Elio Rojas, who meet in a 10-round super lightweight bout, plus super welterweights Tony Harrison and Sergey Rabchenko, who meet in a world title eliminator.
Also working out at Church Street Boxing were the main event boxers on SHOWTIME EXTREME, Brooklyn natives Paulie Malignaggi and Gabriel Bracero.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
LEO SANTA CRUZ
“I’m ready to come here and give a great fight. I want to make it a war. Carl Frampton is a great fighter and he makes for an interesting fight. I’m excited to perform in front of the fans.
“Carl is an undefeated fighter just like myself, so we’re both going to be hungry. We’re going to leave it all in the ring. Neither of us wants to lose and we’re going to give it our all.
“My dad is going to be in my corner and that’s very important to me. We’re both excited to give the fans a great show. It’s a great relief to have him here and for many more years.
“I think that this is the perfect time for this fight. We’re both undefeated and in the prime of our careers. It’s an easy fight to make and a really big fight that the fans will love.
“I don’t think moving up in weight will affect Carl at all. He’s got a big frame and he’s a big guy. He is probably a little bit bigger than me. I know he had problems making 122 pounds, but this should be easier for him.
“I think he’s going to move and I’m going to have to be smart and not get caught. If I’m not feeling his punches, then we’re going to stand in front of him and exchange. I can also box with him if I need.
“I know I’ll have to use my jab and follow up with the right. We have a game plan and backup plans. We’ll be ready for anything.
“I think our styles are both very exciting. I can’t wait for Saturday night. This is the right fight. I’m hoping that both of us come forward and give the fans a show.
“People think Frampton is the underdog because he’s moving up in weight. But I moved up in weight too. I never take an opponent lightly. I’m going to come really hungry. I respect every fighter and I train for my opponent to be at his best.
“I have a lot of respect for Frampton. He has everything you need to be a great fighter. Excellent footwork, great power and good punches. Once he’s in the ring with me, I’m fighting for my future.
“This could definitely be a career-defining fight. I think getting a win over Carl Frampton will get me to the next level. I think the winner of the fight will be considered one of the best fighters in the world.”
JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Leo’s Father & Trainer
“I’m really happy to be here. I’ve been at all of Leo’s fights and it’s great to be at this one. This is just another reason to be happy. I’m so thrilled for Leo that he has this opportunity and to be here for him.
“I know Frampton is undefeated, but Leo comes very prepared. He has worked hard in camp, like he always does. Hopefully both fighters give the fans a good fight on fight night.”
CARL FRAMPTON
“It’s getting big this week. It’s real. I’m completely up for it. I’m excited to bring a big crowd over here and I’m going to do everything I can to have my hand raised.
“This is a dream of mine. To come to America and box is something I’ve always wanted to do. Barclays Center is taking over as the best venue in New York and I’m going to look to put on a world-class performance. It will take my best to get this victory.
“Obviously I have enough motivation on my own, but it would be nice to bring back the title that Barry (McGuigan) once owned. It feels a bit like destiny for me. It’s my turn to win it back for him. I’m doing this for my whole team. I’m doing this for my family and I’m doing this for my entire country.
“I’ve dealt with fighting bigger guys throughout my whole career. I’m used to it. I’ve fought bigger guys than Santa Cruz. I think on fight night I’m going to be stronger. People forget that he started his career at bantamweight while I fought as a featherweight in the amateurs. On the night, I’ll be the bigger man and that will be the difference.
“Leo seems like a nice guy and he’s very respectful. I’ve been respectful to him. He’s obviously a very good fighter. This is a world title fight, so I don’t think we need any extra words between the two of us. We’re both undefeated and we’re looking for a war.
“The last time I was an underdog was 2009 during the Irish championships. I was a massive underdog and everyone who knew me won a lot of money that night.
“Leo is a great fighter. He’s world class. Easily the toughest opponent that I’ve faced so far. But I think I’m Leo’s best opponent as well. I think this has all the ingredients to be a top quality fight. I’ve had a hard training camp and I’m ready to leave everything in the ring.
“I’ve got a game plan. I’m not going to blink. We’re hoping that ‘game plan A’ will work, but if not, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.
“All the pressure is on Santa Cruz. Everyone is expecting him to win. I’m going to come in there and upset him. I’m here to put on a great performance and bring the belt back home.
“I’ve gotten a good reception since coming to America and I think it will only grow on fight night. People will appreciate my style and I think our styles will gel well in the ring.
“I’m feeling strong mentally and physically. I feel like my stamina level has increased with the new weight. I’m eating well and enjoying myself.
BARRY MCGUIGAN, Frampton’s Manager, Former World Champion & Hall of Famer
“Being here is great. I never got a chance to fight here in New York. I’ve always known that Frampton would be a sensation over here. We’ve always wanted to be here on the east coast. We’ve worked very hard with the Irish community to get his name out there. It’s been fantastic.
“This is a can’t miss fight. It can’t be a bad fight, no matter how you look at it. It’s going to be an exciting fight. It might start off tepid, but it’s going to develop into a phenomenal fight. The mesh of styles is going to make this a Fight of the Year candidate.
“It was a wonderful experience being at the Empire State Building yesterday and it was our first opportunity to meet the Santa Cruz family. They’re wonderful people and Leo is an incredible fighter. He’s not arrogant and he’s the sort of guy that everybody likes. We admire Santa Cruz, but we believe that Carl is going to put on an amazing performance Saturday night.
“What’s important is winning on Saturday night. We put so much time and commitment to this game. You don’t want to do all that work and lose. Getting the win is vital.”
MIKEY GARCIA
“I don’t feel any pressure at all. To me, it’s just another day at the office. I have faith in my abilities and confidence in what I can do as a boxer. I’m excited to be back. I’m going to go in there and take care of business like I always do.
“The New York fans have always showed me a lot of love and support. No matter what, they’re in for a good boxing match. The fans are great and they want a great fight. I never look to make a boring fight. I always want to put on a show. I want to give the fans something to talk about.
“I’m more motivated than I ever have been before. It’s been a long time of working hard in the gym every day.
“I’m very happy to be back and I want to accomplish a lot more. I think you’re going to see a better Mikey on Saturday. My will to win is higher than it’s ever been.
“Being on a card like this is a reminder of everything that I can be. If there is interest in me right now, it shows that someone believes in me. We put everything else aside and focused on this date. After that, I’m looking for a world title.”
ROBERT GARCIA, Mikey’s Brother & Trainer
“I think that Mikey is going to put on a great performance. Anything could happen in boxing. Mikey should look good and he should win convincingly.
“I think the interest that people have in Mikey’s future shows how much potential he has. He’s a guy who could be a big name to help carry the sport.
“We haven’t been listening to anything outside of the camp. We stopped any conversations outside of training to get 100 percent focused on this fight. We’re looking to come back stronger than ever.”
ELIO ROJAS
“We’re both coming off of long layoffs. I see the fight pretty even. Garcia might have some advantages of being the bigger guy but I’m not worried about that.
“The new weight feels good. It’s different but it’s nice to not have to kill the body to make weight. We’ve been on weight for two weeks. I’ve brought some power with me as I go up in weight. I feel strong.
“I’ve been doing everything right in training camp. My specialty is moving my hands and excellent footwork.
“I feel like I can beat Mikey Garcia. I have some things that I think will give Mikey Garcia a lot of trouble. I have the tools. We know that Mikey is the favorite. Everyone thought LeBron James was going to lose in the Finals when he was down 3-1, but this is a sport and anything can happen.”
TONY HARRISON
“I take this sport seriously. Everything I do, I do 100 percent. I’m here for the city of Detroit. The city needs something to rejuvenate and that’s what I’m trying to do. I want to bring big-time boxing back to Detroit.
“This is going to be a fan-friendly fight. This is going to be like Thurman vs. Porter. The styles are just perfect for this fight. I’m going to be at my best on fight night.
“Being here in New York is great. I can tell right away that it’s a great fight atmosphere and I love it.
“It was a very long camp. I’m in great shape and ready mentally. I have a lot to prove in this fight and I’m excited to get in there.
“I watched a 15-second clip of him and then I shut the video off. I don’t want to make adjustments off of him, I want him to adjust to me. I know that he’s a tough competitor. You can’t take anything away from his record.
“I’m taking it one fight at a time. I just want to get the respect that I deserve. That’s what I’m coming for. They call me for a fight and I say yes.
“I think I’m at my best right now. I’m starting to peak. I’m starting to find my grown-man strength and my second wind in the ring. When I’m going in late rounds I feel comfortable.
“Whoever wants to fight; they know I’m going to say yes. I just want to compete. I’m fighting for my city and I want to see where I’m at. I’m ready to carry the load for Detroit boxing. I wouldn’t want to be from anywhere else.
“My team is definitely the strongest it’s ever been. I’m in a really good place mentally right now. I think I’m going to show a whole new level on Saturday night.”
SERGEY RABCHENKO
“It’s the most important fight of my life. I think it’s a very interesting fight, with it being my first time in America. I’ve enjoyed it a lot so far. New York never sleeps. There are always many different kinds of people. It’s a nice city.
“Having Ricky Hatton as my trainer helps me because of his great experience. He’s been in many big fights and he’s a great trainer. I’m very comfortable working with him.
“I am aiming for a knockout, but I’m ready for 12 rounds. It’s boxing though, so anything can happen. It could be over very quickly.
“This is a big chance in my life. It’s a big step and I’m ready to take advantage of it.”
RICKY HATTON, Rabchenko’s Trainer
“This isn’t exactly like fighting, but I do get very nervous and tense in the corner. I’ve fulfilled my dreams and now I’m here trying to help other fighters fulfill their dreams. I get nervous but I’m confident in him.
“Sergey has been a pleasure to train. I think he’s going to be a world champion. I really do. He’s been a European Champion and he’s overcome his loss. I think this is the best he’s ever been. We’ll hope that it translates to Saturday night because he certainly has the potential to be a world champion.
“I can’t train fighters that I’m not fond of. I’ve known Sergey for a number of years and I’m here for him. I have a feel for being in the corner with him. There is a different type of nerves I have being in the corner.”
PAULIE MALIGNAGGI
“I hope the crowd enjoys this fight. I really want to put on a show for the local fans and represent for my home.
“It would normally be strange to fight a guy I know so well. But I know he’s a competitor. I’ve known his mentality since the amateurs. He’s coming to win. Once the bell rings, this guy isn’t taking any prisoners. I trained with that same mentality.
“I know we’re both competitors. Who wants the bragging rights on Saturday night?
“Hopefully we can bring some fans of ours to the building on Saturday night and they can become fans of Santa Cruz and Frampton.
“This is a great crossroads fight. I trained for the competitor that I know he is and I’m ready to put on a show.
“This fight gives me an opportunity to keep dreaming in that ring. I have an opportunity to do some things that people don’t think I’m able to, but I feel like I still can. I’m going to put my skills to good use and accomplish what I’m set out to do.
“It’s not about impressing myself, it’s about getting the job done to the best of my abilities. I want to prove to people that I still have more left than they think.”
GABRIEL BRACERO
“This is all business. Paulie is a friend now and he’ll be a friend after. But I’m trying to make it to Paulie’s level. He is successful and I’m trying to do the same thing. Boxing is my outlet to reach those goals.
“There was a time when I was away in prison. I would receive boxing magazines in the mail and see Paulie there and on TV. I wanted to be Paulie’s competition and have his success. By him giving me this opportunity I can accomplish that. I’m thankful but I’m taking him down.
“I don’t want to sound overconfident. You’re going to see a chess match. Paulie is a boxer. When he makes a mistake, I’m going to capitalize on it. The rest will be a surprise.
“This is the biggest fight of my career. If I beat Paulie, my career will jump to the next level. I can get the big fights that I’m looking for. I’m never looking past Paulie and I’m focused on the task at hand.”
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