Tag Archives: heavyweight

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DEONTAY WILDER RETAINS WBC HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE WITH DEVASTATING FIRST-ROUND KNOCKOUT OF BERMANE STIVERNE SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER

Leave a comment
Shawn Porter Scores Unanimous Decision Win Over Adrian Granados in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature
 
Catch The Replay Monday, Nov. 6 at 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®
Watch the Wilder KO: http://s.sho.com/2zguBki
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions 
BROOKLYN (Nov. 5, 2017) – Undefeated heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder retained his WBC title in his sixth defense with a dominant first-round knockout of mandatory challenger Bermane Stiverne in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday night on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.
Wilder (39-0, 38 KO’s) knocked Stiverne (25-3-1, 21 KOs) to the ground three times before referee Arthur Mercante halted the bout at 2:59 of the opening round. After Stiverne took Wilder the distance in their January 2015 title bout, Wilder has now knocked out every single opponent that he has faced in his career. Watch Wilder knocking out Stiverne HERE.
“So much frustration, it just seemed like my career, it’s been crazy. So many guys using PED’s”, said Wilder, the only American heavyweight world champion. “I just want to prove that I am the best. I know I am the best but I want to prove I am the best.”
Wilder first knocked Stiverne to the ground with a devastating one-two combination that caught the Haitian challenger on the nose. Seconds after Stiverne got back to his feet, Wilder landed another clean combination with a big left and an overhand right that sent a stunned Stiverne back to the canvas. The final blow came in the waning moments of the opening round as Wilder landed four clean punches to the face of a wobbly Stiverne.
“You have to give props to Stiverne for getting in the ring,” said Wilder. “It takes a lot of courage and it takes a lot of pride to step in the ring with someone like me. We do what we have to do in the ring and at least he stepped up. He was a clean fighter.”
After the brutal knockout, an emotional Wilder was asked by SHOWTIME Sports®reporter Jim Gray about a possible fight with unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.
“I’ve been waiting on that fight for a long time now,” said Wilder. “I declare war upon you. Do you accept my challenge? I’ve been waiting for a long time. I know I’m the champion. I know I’m the best. Are you up for the test?
“A king doesn’t chase the peasants. A king takes kings. I want Joshua. If he doesn’t give me the fight we have other plans. The world wants Joshua, the world wants Wilder, I want Joshua. Joshua come and see me baby. No more dodging, no more excuses. Make the date, don’t wait.”
Former welterweight world champion Shawn Porter (28-2-1, 17 KOs) defeated Adrian Granados (18-6-2, 11 KOs) via unanimous decision (scored 117-111 by all three judges) in an exciting fight between two all-action competitors that served as the co-featured event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. The victory makes Porter the mandatory title challenger for unified welterweight champion Keith Thurman’s WBC belt.
Porter, who injured his left hand in the sixth round, landed the sharper and more accurate punches throughout the fight, including 40 percent of his power punches. Both fighters came out aggressive in the early rounds and exchanged several powerful blows.
“He gave me a little trouble here and there,” said Porter. “I hurt my left hand in the sixth round, but I kept using it. I had to use my jab. It took a toll on me and by the 10th round I just couldn’t throw it anymore.
“The strategy was to keep working the jab. I knew he’d come at me periodically. I was prepared and dug deep to get the win.”
Granados, of Cicero, Ill., fought valiantly and withstood multiple barrages from the powerful Porter and countered with several quick combinations of his own. Granados, who landed just 24 percent of his total punches, disagreed with the judges’ scorecard.
“I thought that I was controlling the fight and keeping up with him the whole time,” Granados told Jim Gray. “He was just trying to use his normal tricks. I rocked him multiple times and he never had me in any trouble.
“He’s a brute. I thought the referee [Gary Rosato] did a good job breaking up the fight at the right times. It was rough but I definitely thought I did better than the scorecards said.”
In the opening bout of the telecast, unbeaten top contender Sergey Lipinets (13-0, 10 KOs) earned the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Japanese veteran Akihiro Kondo (29-7-1, 16 KOs). The judges scored the fight118-110, 117-111 and 117-111.  
The back-and-forth 12-round world championship fight saw Lipinets control the early rounds with a diversified, creative attack targeting Kondo’s body. An accidental clash of heads in the sixth round, which opened up a deep cut on the forehead of Lipinets, altered the momentum of the fight as Kondo gained confidence and was able to land some powerful punches to the head and body of Lipinets. The 28-year old Lipinets, who earned the title in just his 13th professional fight, was able to regain control in the later rounds to earn the unanimous win.
“I think the scorecards were accurate but it was a good fight,” said Lipinets. “The head-butt really impaired my vision and it led to me walking into some stupid shots.
“I’m happy with my performance. I’m just going to keep getting better from here. I’m ready to take any on challenge thrown my way.”
Kondo, who was fighting for the first time in the United States, proved a worthy opponent on the night. “It was a fair decision,” said Kondo, through a translater. “He hit me with a lot of hard punches and I felt like I needed at least a knockdown in the last round.
“I made up my mind that I wasn’t going to show any pain or fear from his punches. I was determined to keep fighting all night.”
Saturday’s telecast will replay on, Sunday, November 5 at 9 a.m. ET/PT and Monday, November 6 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.
This event was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions.
###
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook  at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,  and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SHOWTIME SPORTS® VIDEO CLIP HIGHLIGHTS FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION BERMANE STIVERNE AHEAD OF HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCH

Leave a comment

 

 

Feature to air during SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

Heavyweight Championship Nov. 4

 

“He took my title away from me. This is something I need back” – Bermane Stiverne

 

 

Photo Credit: SHOWTIME


Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: http://s.sho.com/2iRTWge

Download For Your Video Player: https://we.tl/0vUYWs2gDG

 

Video Restrictions: News outlets are cleared to use this clip on broadcast and digital platforms. Broadcast outlets must verbally mention that Wilder-Stiverne airs LIVE on SHOWTIME on November 4. Digital outlets must reference Wilder-Stiverne, November 4 and LIVE on SHOWTIME in the accompanying copy.

 

WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports today released an advanced look at a video feature of former heavyweight world champion Bermane Stiverneas he prepares to take on reigning champion Deontay Wilder in an attempt to recapture his WBC Heavyweight title.

 

The Heavyweight Championship rematch headlines the November 4 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, a Premier Boxing Champions event LIVE on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

The feature will air in its entirety on Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.

 

“This is the fight that everyday runs through my mind and it bothers me,” said Stiverne. “I don’t think I lost the fight because he was better than me. I lost the fight because of health problems.”

 

Looking ahead to Saturday night’s world title rematch, Stiverne explained how there is no love lost between the two heavyweights. “The matter between he and I is very personal,” Stiverne admitted. “He took my title away from me. This is something I need back, but it’s so much more than that. I’ll make him feel my pain.”

 

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

Leave a comment
 
Heavyweight World Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Saturday, November 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME
(Photos include Times Square Photo-op with Wilder)
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (November 2, 2017) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and former world champion Bermane Stiverne went face-to-face and exchanged words onstage Thursday at the final press conference before they battle in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event this Saturday, November 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions, the event features former world championShawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados in a welterweight world title eliminator. The three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten Sergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship.
Joining the fighters and press conference participants onstage was Hall of Fame Promoter Don King, who promotes Stiverne and predicted that his fighter would shock the world and deliver an upset on Saturday night.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Edison Ballroom in Manhattan:
DEONTAY WILDER
“Stiverne was the only man to survive the ‘Alabama Slammer’ and avoid a knockout. When I knock him out, then nobody will be able to say they made it through against me. He was nothing but a lot of lumps and excuses after the first fight.
“It’s been a long road for me. I’ve had my ups and my downs. The ups I’ve celebrated, but the downs have hurt the most. It’s all led me to here. All I ever wanted to do is prove to the world that I am the best. I am the baddest. I hit the hardest. I am the most feared. My record speaks for itself.
“Winner takes all. I am a man of my word. We’ve heard Bermane Stiverne say these same things before. We’ve heard it all before. What happened the first time? Everybody knows. Hopefully he doesn’t get dehydrated this time.
“This just turned up into a whole other level. The ambulance better be ready. The medical teams better be ready. The referee better be ready. They better have that towel to be able to throw it in because every blow is going to mean something. This just got even more personal.
“There’s nothing different that he can bring to the table. He brought everything he could bring the first time. He brought all his tricks – all his power. There’s nothing he’s going to be able to do this time. The only thing he’s going to be able to do is pick his spot on the ground where he’s going to lay at.”
“I do my talking and my walking in that ring. That’s what it’s all about. That’s why we’re here. November 4 the truth with reveal itself. That’s when it counts. When Deontay Wilder speaks, I mean what I say. But I’m going to show you, instead of tell you, on Saturday night.
“This will be an electrifying fight. That belt isn’t going anywhere. I will unify the division. I will be the undefeated, undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”
BERMANE STIVERNE
“Deontay Wilder has been trying to duck me. He’s been giving a lot of excuses about my career. He should be happy if I’ve been inactive. He should be jumping in the air. Everyone knows that means he’s scared. He knows what time it is.
“He already gave me his best. I had nothing last fight. But now I’m a very dangerous man. Everyone here knows what time it is.
“I feel great and I feel strong. There will be no excuses this time. I can guarantee you this. I’m 100 percent this time.
“Deontay said he fears for my life. Well, I don’t fear for his life. I’m going to do whatever it takes to grab that title. And I’ll walk away with a smile on my face.
“You caught me sleeping last time. Nobody is going to be sleeping this time. I’m going to be on you all night. It’s over for you.
“This is a fighter that I took him the longest rounds in any of his fights. He had never gone past seven or eight.
“He’s like a third round or fourth round knockout guy depending on the level of his opponent. Anyone that would be a decent or strong opponent, he’s not going to last. From rounds six through 12 he didn’t do much. Everything was in the first six.
“His last fights that I’ve watched, I haven’t seen any progress.
“Saturday, November 4 I will be two-time heavyweight champion of the world. No one can stop me. He can smile all he wants. But on Saturday I’m taking that belt home with me.”
SHAWN PORTER
“I’m glad to be back. I’m excited to fight once more before the year is done. This is really another tremendous fight card and I’m honored to be a part of it.
“I’m getting the seats warm this time before Deontay comes to close the show. You’re definitely going to want to be paying attention to this fight.
“I wanted to get back in the ring. Adrian Granados was also looking for a fight and was willing to accept the fight. It’s as simple as that. I’m a boxer and my job is to compete against the best. Right now, he’s the best challenge that I have.
“This is a great matchup. This is really fan friendly action everyone is going to see. I know I’m facing an aggressive guy who is going to come at me with everything he’s got.
“I enjoy every bit about fighting at Barclays Center. The energy is always great in that building. The atmosphere is really unbelievable. I’m happy to fight there again.
“The respect that Granados and I have for each other, that’s what boxing is all about. It’s about getting in the ring and competing. We wanted someone that was going to come here and fight me. We didn’t want someone who was going to run or lay down. We want to close the year out in fantastic form, and the best way to do that is by facing Granados.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“I’m very grateful to be here and have this opportunity against Shawn Porter. I appreciate it and I thank him and his team. This is definitely going to be a great fight.
“I’m fighting for everyone back home and all the people that are with me every day. Everyone knows how dedicated we are and that will all come together on fight night.
“This is all about proving myself and showing that I belong with the best of the sport. I have to take an opportunity like this when it’s offered to me. There’s nothing to do now but get in the ring and get down to business.
“This is a tremendous opportunity. I’m coming to win, not lay down. I’m here to fight. We both have fan-friendly styles and may the best man win.”
SERGEY LIPINETS
“This is a dream come true for me. I had to work very hard and overcome a lot to get to this point. Now that I’m here, I want to give the fans a great fight.
“I’m going to go for the knockout and become a world champion. This is the thing that motivates me every day through this hard training camp.
“I am prepared for anything Kondo can bring to the ring. He has earned his right to fight for the title and I have to take him very seriously and be at my very best.”
AKIHIRO KONDO
“I’m going to do my best to win for all of my fans in Japan. I’m going to take this world title belt back home to Japan and I’m happy to have the support of my country.
“I’ve come a long way to get here. This is the mecca of boxing. I feel really relaxed and calm. This feels like a normal fight for me still.
“No matter what happens in this fight, I think that is going to come down to heart. I am determined not to lose in that area.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This is a terrific card from top to bottom. I love this show. Dominic Breazeale vs. Eric Molina, Amanda Serrano a pound-for-pound champion, and two undefeated local kids Chris Colbert and Titus Williams, all featured on this card. The show is truly loaded with talent and stars.
“Nothing gets bigger than the defense of America’s only heavyweight championship. Deontay Wilder defending his title against Bermane Stiverne, the only man that Deontay has not been able to knockout.
“This is a dangerous fight. Stiverne is big, strong and he can punch. This is Christmas for him. He has nothing to lose. He can walk out of here with the heavyweight championship of the world.
“Shawn Porter is fighting against a real deserving challenger. Shawn is a champion with or without a belt, and Granados always makes great fights and he’s going to give it 120 percent.
“Kondo is a very accomplished fighter, but he’s going to have his hands full with Sergey LIpinets. Whenever LIpinets gets in the ring, someone gets hurt. I think he has a chance to go very far.”
DON KING, Hall of Fame Promoter
“I want to thank all of these young men up here who are fighting for the crown. Stiverne has something in store for Wilder on Saturday night that will be a shock. It’s going to be the Fight of the Year. Unquestionably.
“Deontay has never really met Bermane Stiverne, so I’m going to introduce them. It’s going to be a fantastic night of fighting at Barclays Center. You will have a tremendous upset on Saturday night when Bermane Stiverne knocks out Deontay Wilder.
“After this happens, we can have a rubber match. It will be an exciting time for me on Saturday night and the start of a ‘November to Remember.'”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
“This weekend’s telecast will be the second weekend of heavyweight title fights on SHOWTIME. We all know these two faced each other in 2015, but neither fighter went home happy. Deontay was impressive but he didn’t get the knockout. Stiverne is the only blemish on Wilder’s perfect knockout streak. Ever since that fight, Bermane has been asking for the rematch. On Saturday both men will get their wish. Deontay can send a message to the rest of the division and Bermane gets a second chance at a world title
“The first time they fought, everyone saw it as Deontay’s toughest opponent. Out of 42 media members, 22 predicted Deontay to win and 20 picked Stiverne. This is an all-action heavyweight fight with America’s heavyweight world champion.
“Sometimes a big fight can suck up the attention from the co-featured fights on the card. Both of these opening bouts could have been a main event and would be a main event on any other network. Porter and Granados is an intriguing matchup of all action fighters and if you haven’t seen Sergey LIpinets fight, I urge you to turn on the TV early and get to the arena, because this will be an entertaining fight.
“By the end of the night we will have done 29 world title fights this year alone. There is no other network that could put on that many high quality fights. We look forward to closing the year on a strong note on Saturday night.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“This Saturday will be our last Brooklyn boxing event of the year. It’s been an incredible 2017. It started with Badou Jack vs. James DeGale, then in March the Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia fight, which was probably the biggest we ever had at the arena. It hit new marks that we hadn’t seen before. This summer we had the Mikey Garcia vs. Adrien Broner fight and we’ve also seen the Charlo brothers fight at Barclays Center in 2017 and become stars.
“It’s been a great year full of memorable moments and I couldn’t think of a better way to end the year than with Deontay on Saturday night. When Deontay defended his title at Barclays Center last year, it was the first heavyweight title fight in the borough of Brooklyn in 115 years and we’re excited to have him back.”
###
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook  at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,   and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne Media Workout Quotes & Photos

Leave a comment
 
Heavyweight World Title Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Saturday, November 4 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
BROOKLYN (November 1, 2017) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and former world champion Bermane Stiverne showed off their power and skills at the media workout Wednesday in Brooklyn before they meet in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, November 4 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
 
Presented by Premier Boxing Champions, the event features former world championShawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados in a welterweight world title eliminator. The three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten Sergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Joining the televised fighters at Gleason’s Gym on Wednesday were five-time world champion Amanda Serrano, who returns to the ring in undercard action Saturday. Also in attendance were unbeaten prospects Chris Colbert and Titus Williams, who meet in an eight-round featherweight attraction.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“Stiverne is going to see me come to Barclays Center and finish the job on Saturday. He survived the first time. He’s the only one to survive on their feet. This is something that I’ve come back to. I will finish the job this time.
“Stiverne had a lot of excuses after the last fight. Nobody wants to hear excuses from the loser. He knows what happened. I beat him 12 rounds in a row. I think this fight will be even easier for me. He hasn’t improved since we last fought, but I’m going to show him a whole new Deontay Wilder. This is the end of Bermane Stiverne’s career right here.
“As soon as Anthony Joshua accepts the fight, then I’ll be there. They’re trying to distract people because they know that I’m a danger to anybody’s career. All their excuses have nothing to do with the sport of boxing. The only thing people care about is the best fighting the best, and that’s what I’m trying to do.
“I thought the first Stiverne fight should have been stopped. He had knots all over his faced and was concussed. I’m not trying to leave any doubt this time around.
“This is my mandatory opponent. I must face him and that’s just what it is. I’ve called out every name in the sport. All the top guys have ducked me, so I just have to take care of the people that are able to get in the ring.”
BERMANE STIVERNE
“I have no fear heading into this fight. It’s not that I didn’t see the openings in the last fight, I just couldn’t physically perform how I needed to.
“I had health concerns last fight but now I’ve turned the chapter on that and I’m focusedon Saturday night. This is going to be a completely different fight this time around
“I’m hungry to win. I’m always motivated and excited about getting into the ring, but obviously this is the biggest chance I’m going to have.
“The stage is set and my destiny is in front of me. I always said I was going to be the first person to beat him, and that is going to come together on Saturday.
“Everything has been perfect in camp. Deontay is going to be in for a real rude awakening on Saturday. I’m going to let my fists do the talking for me.”
SHAWN PORTER
“This is a great style matchup. I think that’s why this fight was made. We are two guys that are going to go in there and go 12 hard rounds. My job is to get in there and outbox him and get him out of there.
“I don’t think I need to make any adjustments because I can come forward, move around the ring, create angles – I think Adrian isn’t exactly ready for that. My foot movement and of course my hand speed will be the difference.
“This is the second eliminator for me. It is about doing it again. I have to get the job done and get that fight with Keith Thurman.
“I want to make it very clear that I’m the better boxer. I want it to be clear that I can do to Adrian Granados what no one else has been able to do – put him on his butt.
“On all of our gear we wrote #VegasStrong. We want to send a message to everyone in Vegas that I don’t just live there, but it is part of my heart now. My heart goes out to everyone affected by the tragedy and now we are over a month past that. I am fighting for the people of Vegas.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“It means a lot to me to be in this fight on this stage. I definitely need to win and bounce back from my loss to Broner and show that I have a lot more to give to this sport. I’m far from down and out, I just showed up to the party and I’m ready to leave my mark.
“I think 147 is a weight that I’ll be good at. I’ve fought here and at 140-pounds so I’m comfortable either way. This was just an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.
“I never fight the same way. This is a fight and it’s going to have everything that comes with that. I’m going to be prepared for what Shawn Porter brings to the ring. This fight kind of came out of nowhere but it was easy for me to agree to.
“This is a great opportunity to prove that I’m able to fight with anyone in this sport. I can compete on the highest level and I’m going to show everyone that I’m a force on fight night.”
SERGEY LIPINETS
“I’m very happy right now. I’m very excited to fight for a title, but I know how to contain my emotions and direct them in a positive way. When I get in the ring, I’m going to make everyone else happy with my performance.
“I had great sparring partners for this camp and I’ve worked hard with Buddy McGirt to get in the best shape possible. My team did a great job getting me to this point so I couldn’t be happier.
“At this level, there are no bad fighters. Anyone who walks in the ring and stands in their across from me should be respected.
“My preparation for this fight has been at the same level as it was for all of my other fights. I always train like the title is on the line. I always bring my best and I know that Kondo will do. He’s trying to take advantage of this opportunity too.
“I was here in March fighting on the Keith Thurman vs. Danny Garcia undercard and I knew that one day I would be fighting for the title in that same arena. I love New York and I love the boxing fans here. This is just a great event and I hope everyone sees my performance.”
AKAHIRO KONDO
“I had a really strong training camp. I feel ready to fight. I’m ready to go today If I had to. Everything in camp went as well as I could have hoped.
“I know that Lipinets is a hard puncher and a very good overall fighter. I’m going to do my best to avoid the big shots and use my skills.
“I want to put on a performance that will guarantee that people will remember my name. I think it’s going to be a really good fight and make me more well-known throughout the world. I’m not just doing this for myself, but for everybody back home.
“I’m so grateful and excited to have the opportunity to be on this card. I know how fortunate I am to be in this position and I’m ready to make the most of it.”
AMANDA SERRANO
“Every fight is huge for me to show that I’m still winning and continuing to get better. I love fighting at Barclays Center on big shows like this one. It’s always fun to fight in front of your fans and hopefully as I gain recognition I can bring bigger and better things to women’s boxing.
“I’m always looking for the next big challenge. Eventually I would like to break my own record and look to grab a title in a sixth weight class. I’m ready to take on the best fighters and the biggest challenges.
“You can’t underestimate anyone in this sport, so we trained very hard leading up to this one. She’s coming in here to knock my head off. This camp was actually a little different because I didn’t have to diet for this fight. I could actually eat at this weight and I’m feeling really strong.
“I’m facing a tough girl who’s only been stopped twice, so my goal is to make this one quick. The faster the fight the easier for me and it gives the fans something to get excited about.”
CHRIS COLBERT
“I’m different from a lot of other up-and-coming fighters in this business. I’m willing to take risks. In this boxing game it’s either win or lose, and I’m in it to win.
“I’m familiar with Titus as a fighter and I know that I have what it takes to beat him. That’s the name of the game and that’s the goal on Saturday.
“Training camp was tremendous. This was the longest camp that I’ve ever had. We’ve gone strong for seven weeks straight. No days off, just hard work every day.
“I feel 100 percent healthy right now. Everything happens for a reason. That minor setback that I had, it’s leading to a major comeback starting on Saturday night.
“I love to fight in my city. It’s always great to have my city behind me. Once I get in the ring though, it’s just another day for me. I’m going to show off my skills. I’m going to bring everything I need to get this win.”
TITUS WILLIAMS
“Taking on a fight like this proves that I’m fearless. I’m willing to take on all the challenges in this sport. I’m not looking to pad my record with easy wins. When there is a challenge put in front of me, I’m ready willing and able to face it.
“I’m in the best shape of my life right now. I’ve never felt this good heading into a fight. Mentally and physically I’m in a really good place and ready to go.
“Colbert has speed, he’s crafty and he’s slick. He’s going to come to fight and he’s going to come to win. But I’m going to break his will.
“All of those attributes that he has, I have the same ones. But I have the difference maker. In the professional game, that difference maker is power.
“I’m facing a guy I came up with during the amateurs and went on national trips with. None of that really matters to me when the bell rings. I have to go in there and do my job, and that’s to win.”
###
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook  at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter, and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment
boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RING RESUME: DEONTAY WILDER

Leave a comment

 

 

An Examination Of Wilder’s Career From Olympic Bronze-Medalist To Undefeated WBC Heavyweight Champion Written and Narrated By Steve Farhood

 

To View and Share, Click Here: http://s.sho.com/2z8cRt5

 

Deontay Wilder vs. Bermane Stiverne | Saturday, Nov. 4

Live on SHOWTIME® At 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT

 

Photo Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

WHAT: International Boxing Hall of Famer and historian Steve Farhood examines the career of WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder in advance of his world title rematch defense against mandatory challenger Bermane Stiverne on Saturday, Nov. 4live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

In the latest edition of the SHOWTIME Sports® digital series “Ring Resume,” Farhood takes an in-depth look at Wilder’s career beginning with his 2012 SHOWTIME debut knockout of then-unbeaten Kelvin Price.  The nine-fight examination includes his 2015 world title fight against his Nov. 4 opponent, Bermane Stiverne, and his sensational 2016 Knockout of the Year candidate against Artur Szpilka.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UK Boxing

UNIFIED HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION ANTHONY JOSHUA STOPS MANDATORY CHALLENGER CARLOS TAKAM IN 10TH

Leave a comment

 

Joshua vs. Takam, The First of Consecutive Heavyweight World Title Fights On SHOWTIME, Replays TONIGHT at 10:40 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME; And On Sunday Morning at 10 a.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME 

 

005_Anthony_Joshua_vs_Carlos_Takam

 

CLICK FOR PHOTOS FROM CARDIFF; Credit Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

CARDIFF, WALES (Oct. 28, 2017) – Undefeated and Unified Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua stopped IBF mandatory challenger Carlos Takam in the 10th round on Saturday night at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, where the British sensation improved to 20 wins, all by knockout, and retained both his IBF and WBA world title belts. 

 

Joshua vs. Takam was contested before a record 78,000 fans, the largest ever for an indoor boxing event and was the first of back-to-back heavyweight world title fights airing live on SHOWTIME.  Next Saturday, Nov. 4, WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder headlines a three-fight telecast when he faces former world champion Bermane Stiverne at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

 

Creative combinations and some inside fighting rarely seen from the rangy Joshua opened up a cut over Takam’s right eye and floored the challenger in the 4th.  Later, Joshua opened another gash over the left eye but a bloody and battered Takam continued to press forward.  Takam was able to land some significant punches in the middle rounds but not enough to take Joshua off his game.

 

In the 10th, after Joshua landed several big punches including a left-right combination that rocked the courageous challenger, referee Phil Edwards stepped in and stopped the fight at 1:34. 

 

“I kept my composure,” said Joshua when asked about a head butt in the second round that may have broken the champion’s nose. “We will get my nose cracked back into place and then we can get back to training.”

 

When SKY Sports’ ringside reporter Andy Scott asked the beloved champion about a unification bout with fellow undefeated champion Wilder, Joshua said, “It has to happen. It has to happen for sure.  When it comes down to it, the IBF, IBO and WBA have mandatory challengers.  I can’t just fight any Joe Blow I want.  I have to fight the obligations as champion and once I fulfill those, my door is open to fight anyone, be it Wilder or anyone else.

 

“Everyone saw how hard it took to get the belts,” he continued.  “I am not giving them up for anyone.”

 

When asked about fighting overseas in America or elsewhere, Joshua replied to the delight of the U.K. fans, “As I said, it’s not my decision what happens outside the ring… but look at what boxing is doing.  We are getting people coming in from all around the U.K. and from different countries.  I think we should keep on boxing right here in the U.K.” 

 

 For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, UK Boxing

ANTHONY JOSHUA vs. CARLOS TAKAM FINAL WEIGHTS, PHOTOS & COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR UNIFIED HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment

 

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Live At 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT From Sold-Out Principality Stadium In Cardiff, Wales

007_Anthony_Joshua_and_Carlos_Takam.jpg

Click HERE For Photos Credit Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

CARDIFF, WALES (Oct. 27, 2017) – Unified Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua tipped the scales at a career-high 254 pounds and IBF mandatory challenger Carlos Takam measured 235 ½ pounds for their heavyweight showdown tomorrow on SHOWTIME.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT from sold-out Principality Stadium in Cardiff where an estimated 78,000 fans will converge for the largest indoor event in boxing history.

 

Joshua, who went past the 10th round for the first time with a sensational knockout of Wladimir Klitschko on April 29, promised conditioning wasn’t an issue.

 

“I’ve been doing a lot more running. Maybe I’m starting to fill out as I get older and I’m starting to find my natural weight,” Joshua said.  “Who knows what it is.  I definitely feel a lot fitter than I have in previous fights.”

 

The referee for Saturday’s contest is Phil Edwards and the judges scoring ringside are Michael Alexander (England), Pawel Kardyni (Poland) and Ron McNair (New York).

 

If Joshua’s previous 19 bouts are any indication, the judges might not be necessary.

 

“I’m not going to say I’m going to knock him out and smash him up and all these types of things,” said Joshua, who has knocked out all of his professional opponents en route to unifying the heavyweight division.  “But that’s what I have to do.”

 

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Shawn Porter vs. Adrian Granados Training Camp Quotes & Photos

Leave a comment
 
Porter vs. Granados Featured on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, November 4 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn
 
Click HERE for Porter Photos from Nabeel Ahmad/Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE for Granados Photos from Tom Barnes
 
BROOKLYN (October 26, 2017) – Former champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter and hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados will look to steal the show when they meet in a 12-round welterweight world title elimination bout on Saturday, November 4 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The November 4 event, presented by Premier Boxing Champions, is headlined by WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder in a rematch against former heavyweight champion Bermane Stiverne. The three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeatenSergey Lipinets battling Japan’s Akihiro Kondo for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Porter spoke from his training camp in Las Vegas, while Granados shared his thoughts from camp in Chicago, just over a week before they go toe-to-toe in Brooklyn:
SHAWN PORTER
“Training camp has gone very well. We did most of our work here in Las Vegas and also a little bit at Wild Card in California. We’re at the tail end of camp now. Every day is going to be exciting as we taper off and get ready for November 4.
“I feel very familiar with Granados at this point. One night I watched about three or four of his fights and some interviews and really got to put him in my mind. He’s an aggressive fighter who’s not easily hurt or fazed by what’s going on in the ring. Whether that’s him getting hit or an opponent making him miss.
“This is going to be a very competitive fight. The key to beating him will be my speed. I have to out box him, make him walk into some heavy shots and eventually knock him out.
“I love Las Vegas but I’m always very excited to get the opportunity to fight at Barclays Center. It’s a genuinely fun arena.  The energy there is bar-none. I absolutely love being able to entertain crowds out there in Brooklyn.
“We’re going after the WBC title. We’re going to have our sights set on Keith Thurman. I want to get that rematch sometime next year. Outside of that, the only fighter on my mind is Danny Garcia, because he’s a guy who I think I’d make an exciting fight with.”
ADRIAN GRANADOS
 
“I know I have a fan-friendly style and I make my opponent fight regardless if he bangs or boxes. Bringing exciting fights is what I’m known for to the fans and media. It’s going to be the fight of the night.
“It was a surprise when I got the call for this fight but I jumped right at the opportunity to get in the ring with Shawn Porter. He had a close fight with Keith Thurman and a win over Adrien Broner so a victory over him puts me right back at the top of the division.
“Shawn fought at 165 in the amateurs, much bigger than me and I remember him well, he was also a football player so he was much heavier. Since he turned pro I’ve spent more time watching his fights and studying him, especially these last few weeks knowing that we’re fighting each other at 147.
“It’s better for me to know right from the start the weight is at 147, the previous camp for Broner we started at 142 and then had to move to 147 very late in the camp. Knowing it’s been 147 from the start has helped me to better prepare for this fight with Shawn Porter. It will also help me to come in a little heavier on fight night.
“Training and sparring has all been here in Chicago at the Garfield Park Gym. Camp has been terrific, very smooth especially with no weight issues.
“I’m very excited to be fighting at Barclays Center and I know that this is more of a neutral site. I know that Shawn’s the favorite but I feel good about fighting in Brooklyn. I’ve been to Barclays Center twice to watch fights and I’m excited to be fighting therenext Saturday night.
“If I win, I’ll be the mandatory for Keith Thurman’s WBC belt and that’s my motivation. Expect a classic ‘El Tigre’ performance, no back down, no quit, a classic boxing match.”
###
For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm  or become a fan on Facebook  at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter,   and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ANTHONY JOSHUA vs. CARLOS TAKAM FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment

 

 

“He’s definitely going to take me into late waters and that’s where it’s going to be interesting.” – Anthony Joshua

 

“I saw Joshua go down.  I saw he has a weak point.” – Carlos Takam

 

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Live At 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT From Sold-Out Principality Stadium In Cardiff, Wales

Click HERE For Photos Credit Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

CARDIFF, WALES (Oct. 26, 2017) – Unified Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua and IBF mandatory challenger Carlos Takam faced off at the National Museum in Cardiff on Thursday during the final press conference for their heavyweight blockbuster this Saturdaylive on SHOWTIME from sold-out Principality Stadium.

 

Joshua and Takam will square off in front of an all-time indoor boxing record of 78,000 fans on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING beginning at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT in the U.S.

 

Joshua (19-0, 19 KOs) returns for the first time since unifying the heavyweight division via knockout in a leading Fight of the Year thriller with long-reigning kingpin Wladimir Klitschko this past April.

 

“We’re going to have to put that Klitschko win to the side at some stage because boxing is unforgiving,” Joshua said on Thursday.  “That was that. This is now.  Carlos is a completely different animal than Klitschko.

 

“Who knows what’s going to happen in that ring Saturday. This division is unpredictable. You saw I got tired in the fifth round against Klitschko.  Am I going to find out I’m only a five round fighter?  Takam is tough and can go the distance.  He’s definitely going to take me into late waters and that’s where it’s going to be interesting.”

 

Takam (35-3-1, 27 KOs) has experience in close bouts with reigning WBO Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker and former challenger Alexander Povetkin.  The 2004 Olympian from Cameroon enters the contest having boxed more than three times the professional rounds as Joshua.

 

“My experience will help me win the fight,” Takam said.  “I’ve been in there with a champion.  When we get in the ring it’s just two fighters.  Only at the end of the fight will we know who the real world champion is.

 

“I saw Joshua go down.  I saw he has a weak point, and we’ve been working on targeting that.”

 

Joshua and Takam meet 24 years after Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno squared off in the first all-British heavyweight world championship in front of more than 25,000 fans at the National Stadium in Cardiff.  There will be more than 78,000 at the new National Stadium – Principality Stadium – on Saturday.

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say on Thursday:

 

Anthony Joshua

 

“Fighting is all I do. It’s all I know. It’s an honor to be defending these belts. I don’t always like to talk about the belts because I’ve always been a fighter before that and I’ve always had the ambition of being a talented fighter before I became champion. I’m just looking forward to getting in the ring and handling business.

 

“We’re going to have to put that Klitschko win to the side at some stage because boxing is unforgiving. That was that. This is now. Carlos is a completely different animal than Klitschko.

 

“I do know that I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win. In terms of style, technique and preparation, it’s completely different. Every camp is completely different. My mindset is completely different. All will be revealed Saturday. Best of luck to both men and the best man will win.

 

“[Trainer Rob McCracken] has never just trained me for one style of opponent. He’s trained me to be the best me. He’s trained me to be ready, to be fit, to be focused and to adapt new skills to my boxing. No matter who my opponent is, I’ll always be in good condition to compete against any champion or any contender in the world.

 

“We’re in the business of providing really good fights. We’re not here to tip and tap and run for 12 rounds. We’re here to get stuck in.

 

“I know what it’s like to be the non-champion fighting for a championship. When there’s that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, it’s going to be competitive. This is heavyweight championship boxing. Both of us are on the same elite level so you’re going to see an elite fight.

 

“Who knows what’s going to happen in that ring Saturday. This division is unpredictable. You saw I got tired in the fifth round against Klitschko. Am I going to find out I’m only a five round fighter? Takam is tough and can go the distance. He’s definitely going to take me into late waters and that’s where it’s going to be interesting.

 

“With [Takam’s] style and his strength, I wish I came into this fight heavier so we could just stand there and slug it out with each other. Why’d I come in lighter? I thought I was fighting Pulev – a real amateur-style boxer. I had to stay off the line, jab with him and match his speed. Takam is a completely different style of fighter so I might have come in a bit heavier if I knew I was fighting Takam.

 

“I’m just a reflection of hard work. The UK boxing scene is quite grassroots. I still go to my amateur club. Just before this championship fight, I was training with all the amateurs – kids that were just 10 years-old. You can only achieve what you see, so when they’re training with Olympians and professional World Champions, they’re inspired. That’s real nice to be the champion and still keep it real training with the grassroots athletes.”

 

Carlos Takam

“My experience will help me win the fight.  I’ve been in there with a champion.  When we get in the ring it’s just two fighters.  Only at the end of the fight will we know who the real world champion is.

 

“I saw Joshua go down.  I saw he has a weak point, and we’ve been working on targeting that.”

 

“I’m going to box my way.  I’m going to come forward, fight my fight.

 

“I believe in myself.  I’m confined.  It wouldn’t be a shock if I won because of the confidence I have.

 

“When I heard about the fight, I was already in preparation for another fight so I had to completely change the way I trained to be ready for this fight. I’m coming out on the 28th to win the fight.

 

“All I can do is invite you to see the outcome of the fight on the 28th. I’m coming out to win.

 

“I know it’s going to be a great fight. This will change my life in boxing but not from the person I am.”

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ANTHONY JOSHUA vs. CARLOS TAKAM PUBLIC WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP THIS SATURDAY LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment

 

 

Unified Champion Joshua Defends On SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Live At 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT From Principality Stadium In Cardiff, Wales

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

CARDIFF, WALES (Oct. 25, 2017) – Unified Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua and IBF mandatory challenger Carlos Takam worked out in front of approximately 1,400 fans on Wednesday at St. David’s Hall in Cardiff, just three days before they square off this Saturday live on SHOWTIME.

 

The near-capacity crowd at the National Concert Hall of Wales serves as a prelude to the record-breaking audience expected at Principality Stadium on Saturday where more than 75,000 fans will set boxing’s all-time indoor attendance record at the retractable roof facility.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT from ringside in Cardiff as Joshua (19-0, 19 KOs) returns for the first time since unifying the heavyweight division.  The undefeated British sensation picked up the WBA belt to go along with his IBF crown on April 29 in a leading Fight of the Year thriller with Wladimir Klitschko.

 

“We’re going to have a war.  We’re going to wear our hearts on our sleeves,” Joshua said.  “This is what fighting’s about.  With me, it ain’t about all this other stuff that goes on outside the ring.  When people come to watch me box, they know they’re going to have a good time.  They know they’re going to see knockouts.”

 

Takam (35-3-1, 27 KOs), a 2004 Olympian from Cameroon, packs a lengthy resume as he looks to shock the world and become heavyweight champion.

 

“He’s a world champion, he’s earned his belt,” said the 36-year-old Takam.  “But I’m coming here to take it.”

 

Joshua vs. Takam is the first of two consecutive heavyweight world bouts on SHOWTIME.  Next Saturday, Nov. 4, WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder will defend his title in a rematch with Bermane Stiverne, the only opponent to last the distance with the American champion in 38 professional bouts.

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say on Wednesday:

 

ANTHONY JOSHUA:

“I’ve never been nervous about fighting but I think this stadium is going to be different.  There’s a closed roof.  I know the energy and the atmosphere is going to be bouncing up and down off the roof and it’s going to be nothing like before.  As I said, if Saturday night is a little bit like the people today here at the public workout, it’s going to be phenomenal.

 

“This is what fighting’s about – different styles and different types of opponents.  But the best opponent you can work on is yourself so I’ve definitely been improving myself.  I can talk about a million things I’ve been working on but at the end of the day, as soon as that first bell rings, that’s when it matters.

 

“We’re going to have a war.  We’re going to wear our hearts on our sleeves.  This is what fighting’s about.  With me, it ain’t about all this other stuff that goes on outside the ring.  When people come to watch me box, they know they’re going to have a good time.  They know they’re going to see knockouts.  They’re going to see a bit of blood and a bit of respect after.

 

“I think the UK has been sending a statement for a long time.  It wasn’t so long ago that U.K. heavyweights or boxers weren’t getting a look.   Now, all the Americans are talking about U.K. fighters. We’ve definitely been sending a statement over to the States for a long time.

 

“[Joseph Parker and Deontay Wilder] can watch me a million times but it’s so different when you get in these ropes.  When you get in here, you can watch somebody a million times, but it’s a different challenge when you face someone face-to-face.

 

“We have to deliver.  The fans know what they want, I know what they want.  It’s my job to deliver. I haven’t got to say it – I know already and the fans know.  Let’s just deliver Saturday night and we’ll look forward to a promising 2018.”

 

On opponent Takam, who became the mandatory challenger after an injury to Kubrat Pulev:

“First and foremost, massive credit to Eddie [Hearn] because he’s done amazing work.  He was ahead of the game and he’s managed to allow this show to go ahead.  Credit to Carlos Takam, a true athlete who stays fit all year round.  He’s not someone who just trains for a fight, he seems to keep himself conditioned and that’s what we like.  He’s the same as myself. And I think – what would I do?  Would I give up the IBF belt?  Hell no. I worked too hard for it.”

 

CARLOS TAKAM:

“I’m ready for this fight, I’m ready for everything he has.  I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time.  We were in the gym getting ready, hoping we would get this chance.

 

“He’s a world champion, he’s earned his belt.  But I’m coming here to take it.  You have to defend your title, and I’m not going to make it easy.  I’m going to make this the fight of the year.

 

“If I can do things differently from what other boxers have done against him, I’ll have a chance to win by knockout.

 

“A lot of people have asked me if I see any weaknesses in Joshua’s style.  All I can say is we will see on fight night.

 

“I’m not bothered about fighting in front of 80,000 people, the only people in the ring will be myself and Joshua, nothing else matters except us.”