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HALL OF FAMER MANNY PACQUIAO SET TO CHASE HISTORY YET AGAIN THIS SATURDAY NIGHTBoxing Luminaries Share Favorite “Manny Moments” & Preview Pacquiao vs. Barrios Showdown Ahead of Star-Studded Night

(Photo Sary: Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions

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LAS VEGAS – July 15, 2025 -The fighting pride of the Philippines, an eight-division world champion and as of last month, an inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. While it seems like the larger than lifeManny “Pacman” Pacquiaohas accomplished everything you can in the sport, he could add yet another chapter to his historic legacy this Saturday, Jolay 19 when he challenges WBC Welterweight World ChampionMario “El Azteca” Barriosin the main event of a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

In addition to becoming the first fighter to accomplish the incomprehensible feat of winning a world title after a Hall of Fame induction, Pacquiao could break his own record as the oldest welterweight world champion in history if he takes the WBC belt from Barrios. Pacquiao originally set the mark in July 2019, as he defeated the previously unbeaten Keith Thurman at 40-years-old. In an era that’s seen superstars in their 40’s such as Tom Brady and LeBron James continue to excel at the highest levels, Pacquiao is out to prove once again that he’s a generational athlete that transcends the sport.

Pacquiao will return to the ring at a place that he’s made his own, the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the fight capital of the world, as he makes his 16faha- appearance at the venue, more than any fighter in the venue’s considerable history. With his 15faha- main event on July 19, he ties the mark set by fellow legend Floyd Mayweather at the venue, and only trails Mayweather in total wins at the arena (15-10). The two inextricably linked all-time greats are also tied for the most title fights at MGM Grand with 12 each.

Tamin'ny Jolay 19, Pacquiao will be facing a foe with a familiar fighting heritage in the Mexican-American Barrios, as Pacquiao has defeated a who’s-who of Mexico’s best throughout his career. Since the year 2003, Pacquiao has beaten 12 Mexican or Mexican-American fighters including legends such as Juan Manuel Marquez, Oscar De La Hoya, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Antonio Margarito. These triumphs include some of Pacquiao’s most notable wins and helped him earn the attention and adoration of boxing’s rabid Mexican fanbase.

While racking up all of these accomplishments, Pacquiao has garnered respect from a wide range of boxing luminaries who have shared their favorite “Manny Moments” ahead of the July 19 zava-nitranga. Amongst those who spoke about Pacquiao were former opponents Thurman and Barrera, as well as former sparring partner and welterweight champion Shawn Porter.

“It’s never been about one moment for me when it comes to Manny Pacquiao,” said Thurman. “My favorite moment is any time he’s busted off those eight-punch combos. With an opponent on the ropes, world-class competition, and he just fires off an eight-set. It’s happened many times, but every time I’ve witnessed it, it’s sparked a little joy in my heart.”

“I have two favorite Manny moments, the first is when he beat Oscar De La Hoya, because I thought it was impossible,"Said Barrera. “I thought it would never happen and then De La Hoya remained seated and it was over. The second one was the way he beat Miguel Cotto. It was two Hall of Famers and Manny being really impressive in that weight class.

“What makes Manny so special is the bond and closeness with his fans. His heart is what makes everyone like him. He likes to put on a show, give it all for the fans, and most importantly, he becomes a warrior when he steps in the ring.”

“I have a rare Manny Pacquiao moment, because there aren’t too many that get to spar with the legend,” said Porter. “He flew me and my dad out to the Philippines and we met for the first time and he was like ‘okay this is gonna be fun.’ I was shocked because this was the first time that someone treated getting in the ring with me like it wasn’t a big deal…After I talked to my corner I turned around and took a step toward the center of the ring and it was like this moment came over me like ‘you’re sparring Manny Pacquiao.’ I was in a daze for like the first 10 segondra. And he caught me with a good straight left hand in the first minute and it woke me up. I was like ‘that dude’s got some power’, and then we were off to the races.”

When prognosticating the results of this Saturday, Jolay 19 matchup, the oddsmakers have installed the younger reigning champion Barrios as a betting favorite. Renowned trainer and boxing analyst Stephen “Breadman” Edwards agrees with the sentiment, emphasizing how gargantuan the task at hand is for the 46-year-old great.

“It would be an incredible feat for a 46-year-old fighter to come back and win the welterweight world title,” said Edwards. “It’s hard to even imagine someone being off for a few years and then coming back at 46 and winning it. In all honesty, I think that this may be an impossible task. If anyone can do it, Manny can do it, but right now I’m favoring Barrios.”

Despite the odds, several of the polled boxers are favoring Pacquiao to pull off the upset, including Porter, Barrera, and reigning WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Gary Antuanne Russell.

“Pacquiao is a punches in bunches type of guy and he can crack,"said Russell. “He’s shown that his punching power can get the job done. Barrios is youthful and a selective puncher. I don’t think he’s gonna be able to sit there and take pictures. Manny will make you pay if you wait too long. He’s always shown that he wants to get the fight going.

“Pacquiao is a high-tempo fighter and Barrios has struggled with that pace. Barrios is a tough competitor, but I feel like he still has a lot to learn. Manny has been in there with many champions and I believe he has the tools in his arsenal and that it’ll show the night of the fight. Barrios is gonna have to shock the world. He has to show enough to make Manny respect him. I’m leaning towards Manny being victorious, but may the best man win.”

“I do believe that Manny Pacquiao is gonna beat Mario Barrios,” said Porter. “I know that everyone is talking about his age. That’s the theme, can the old man beat the young man? I think this old man is always gonna be too much until he hangs up the gloves.”

“I think this will be a very interesting fight,” said Barrera. “Pacquiao is a superb warrior, an eight-division world champion who will give it his all and who likes to put on a show. This sets up to be a fight where we will really see these guys collide and make the fans the real winners.

“Barrios is an active defending champion, and while he’s not as complex as the other current champions, he will be dangerous once he steps into the ring. I would like to see Pacquiao win because of the legend that he is. I’ll go with Manny Pacquiao as the winner, but if Barrios wins, it’ll be because he proves that he’s the better fighter right now.”

No matter who you see winning on July 19, the evening is undoubtedly shaping up to be historic, and despite any doubts coming from the outside, Pacquiao has expressed the strong self-belief that he will leave the ring as world champion once again.

“The fire, determination and eagerness to work hard is still there,” said Pacquiao. “I’m still enjoying running the mountains. Not every fighter has this feeling. This is a blessing, because I’ve been through so many big fights in my career and I’m still here. I’m back…It would mean a lot for me to become world champion again. Manny Pacquiao is always giving surprises to the fans. That’s my passion.”

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BARRIOS

Pacquiao vs. Barrios will see Hall of Fame boxing legendManny “Pacman” Pacquiaoand WBC Welterweight World ChampionMario “El Azteca” Barriossquare off in the main event of a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, Jolay 19 avy amin'ny MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Ao amin'ny fiaraha-main hetsika, WBC Super Welterweight World ChampionSebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundoraand Australian superstarTim Tszyu will rematch after engaging in 2024’s bloodiest fight.

The action will also feature Mexican starIsaac “Pitbull” Cruzand his hard-hitting countrymanAngel Fierro meeting for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel after their action packed February clash, plus former two-division world championBrandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroaary ambony ka hiadyJoet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT with a 12-round WBA Featherweight Title Eliminator.

Preceding the pay-per-view, tompon-dakaGary Russell Jr.tops a three fight card streaming live on Prime Video, as he steps back into the ring to faceHugo Castañedain a 10-round lightweight showdown.

The action also includes undefeated top super bantamweightDavid “Rey” Picassodueling Japanese contenderKyonosuke Kamedaao amin'ny 10-manodidina raharaha, plus Filipino power-puncher and former world championMark “Magnifico” Magsayobattles Mexico’sJorge Matain a 10-round super featherweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBCwww.PremierBoxingChisg.com, follow #PacquiaoBarrios, manaraka ao amin'ny TwitterPremierBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing, na ho tonga mpankafy ao amin'ny Facebook amin'nySokajy://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

ANGEL FIERRO: “I HAVE NO RESPECT FOR PITBULL CRUZ. HE DOESN’T INTIMIDATE ME & HE’S AN ORDINARY FIGHTER!" – Fierro Talks Training With Robert Garcia & More Ahead of Cruz Rematch on Saturday, Jolay 19

Hard-Hitting Fierro Talks Training with Robert Garcia & Previews Mexico vs. Mexico Rematch Against Former World Champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz onAsabotsy, Jolay 19 on PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

Riverside, TOY NY. – July 1, 2025 -Hard-hitting Mexican contenderAngel “Tashiro” Fierrosent a direct message to his compatriot and rivalIsaac “Pitbull” Cruzduring a tense face-to-face at the Los Angeles press conference in June to announce their rematch, and has continued to express his ire toward Cruz as we near their showdown on Saturday, Jolay 19 as part of a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

“When I say something to him, like I did at that press conference, I follow through,” said Fierro. “I promised I would show him that I’m elite and this fight will be more of the same. I have no respect for ‘Pitbull’ Cruz. He doesn’t intimidate me and he’s an ordinary fighter. He’s a human and he gets tired too. I stayed true to myself when I told him I’m coming for war.”

The biggest change for Fierro since the first showdown is the addition of famed trainer Robert Garcia, who has led his training camp and will do the same for his corner on July 19. By joining forces with Garcia, Fierro believes he’s unlocked a better version of himself that he’ll display in the rematch.

“It’s been a tough camp,” said Fierro. “I’ve never trained with this much intensity before. Robert Garcia and the whole team has been excellent. We’ve made changes to my sparring sessions and I believe we’re going to deliver a great result.

“I’ve gone through changes physically, mentally and nutritionally. It’s going to make me formidable. I’m in the best shape of my life and my diet is on point. I’m not worried about making weight and that’s how an elite fighter should come into a fight.”

The Tijuana-native’s first fight against Cruz was a tale of two halves, as Cruz controlled the early rounds before Fierro appeared to turn the tide, out landing his opponent 132 ny 106 across the final five frames. While he believes he’ll be even better on July 19, Fierro is confident that he proved his elite status in the first fight, even if Cruz doesn’t.

“I’ve worked on myself and correcting the mistakes I made in the first fight that would have changed the outcome,” said Fierro. “Robert Garcia is very experienced and I watched the fight with him to work on what I need to do to win this time.

“I didn’t keep my hands up 100% of the time like I needed to. That was the main mistake at the time. ‘Pitbull’ underestimated me – and still does- but I already showed him that I’m not middling fighter. I proved I’m elite and now I’m working twice as hard.”

In addition to showing Cruz his level, Fierro believes that he took advantage of the big stage in February on the undercard of David Benavidez vs. David Morrell Jr. to show the Mexican people that he was a true contender. With that extra motivation, he’s promised to show that he will be the next big star to take off from the boxing-rich country.

“At the beginning of the fight, people looked at me like I was a nobody,” said Fierro. “But by the halfway point, I felt a shift, and people were already seeing me as a big-time fighter. I felt like Rocky in Russia! I proved that I’m not just a talker. I’m a true Mexican…We’re two Mexicans with pride on the line and looking to show who the next great Mexican boxing star will be. I’m fighting to bring honor to my country.”

Having already delivered a fight that’s garnering early Fight of the Year consideration, Fierro has promised to deliver even more action the second time around, and perhaps bring back memories of Fierro’s personal favorite all-Mexican rematch Marco Antonio Barrera vs. Erik Morales II.

“You’re going to see a different ‘Tashiro’ and it’s going to be an even better war than the first one,” said Fierro. “The fans will be on their feet from the very first round. I will beat ‘Pitbull’ – no matter what. He better prepare well and I think he will, because deep down he knows what he’s up against.”

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BARRIOS

Pacquiao vs. Barrios will see Hall of Fame boxing legendManny “Pacman” Pacquiaoand WBC Welterweight World ChampionMario “El Azteca” Barriossquare off in the main event of a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, Jolay 19 avy amin'ny MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Ao amin'ny fiaraha-main hetsika, WBC Super Welterweight World ChampionSebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundoraand Australian superstarTim Tszyu will rematch after engaging in 2024’s bloodiest fight.

The action will also feature Mexican starIsaac “Pitbull” Cruzand his hard-hitting countrymanAngel Fierro meeting for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel after their action packed February clash, plus former two-division world championBrandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroaary ambony ka hiadyJoet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT with a 10-round featherweight showdown.

In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now throughAXS.com.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBCwww.PremierBoxingChisg.com, follow #PacquiaoBarrios, manaraka ao amin'ny TwitterPremierBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing, na ho tonga mpankafy ao amin'ny Facebook amin'nySokajy://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

HALL OF FAMER MANNY PACQUIAO SET TO CHALLENGE WBC WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION MARIO BARRIOS HEADLINING PBC PAY-PER-VIEW EVENT ON PRIME VIDEO ON SATURDAY, JOLAY 19 IN Las Vegas

SUMMER HEATS UP WITH STAR-STUDDED

PBC PAY-PER-VIEW EVENT IN LAS VEGAS!

HALL OF FAMER MANNY PACQUIAO SET TO

CONTINUE LEGENDARY CAREER & CHALLENGE

WBC WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION MARIO BARRIOS HEADLINING PBC PAY-PER-VIEW EVENT ON PRIME VIDEO ON SATURDAY, JOLAY 19

WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian Fundora Rematches Australian Superstar Tim Tszyu in

Co-Main Event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena

Bebe Kokoa! Mexican Star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz Duels Hard-Hitting Angel Fierro in Can’t Miss Rematch of

Mexican Sluggers

&

Former Two-Division Champion Brandon Figueroa Battles Top Contender Joet Gonzalez in PPV Opener at

8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT

Pre-Sale Tickets Available Now Until 10 p.m. PT

 ny alalan 'AXS.com with Code: PBC

Public On-Sale Begins TOMORROW, Alarobia, Jona 4 amin'ny 10 a.m. PT throughAXS.com!

LAS VEGAS – June 3, 2025 -First ballot International Boxing Hall of FamerManny “Pacman” Pacquiaowill look to add another memorable highlight to his legendary career and become a world champion once again when he challenges the hard-hitting WBC Welterweight World ChampionMario “El Azteca” Barriosamin'ny sabotsy, Jolay 19 headlining a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The co-main event will see a rematch of 2024’s bloodiest fight as reigning WBC Super Welterweight World ChampionSebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundorafaces Australian superstar and former world championTim Tszyu. Fundora and Tszyu combined for an unforgettable night in March 2024 as Tszyu fought through one of the most gruesome cuts in recent memory before eventually losing to Fundora by a narrow split-decision.

The stacked lineup features another sensational rematch as Mexican starIsaac “Pitbull” Cruzbattles the hard-hittingAngel Fierroin a 12-round super lightweight fight that follows their action packed first showdown. Bebe Kokoa, former two-division world championBrandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroasteps in against top contenderJoet Gonzalezfor 10-rounds of featherweight action that opens the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.

Pre-sale tickets are available NOW until 10 p.m. PT throughAXS.com with the code: PBC

Public on-sale begins TOMORROW, Alarobia, Jona 4 amin'ny 10 a.m. PT throughAXS.com.

In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

**MANNY PACQUIAO VS. MARIO BARRIOS**

Despite a 17-year age gap between these two fighters, both are unified in their desire to deliver toe-to-toe action for boxing fans as the fighting pride of the PhilippinesManny Pacquiaoduels WBC Welterweight World ChampionMario Barriosin the 12-round main event.

Already owning a career that’s seen him earn more accolades than can be listed in print, Pacquiao can etch his name into another chapter of the history books by going straight from his Hall of Fame induction in June to a world championship-winning performance on July 19. In an era that’s seen superstars in their 40’s such as Tom Brady and LeBron James continue to excel at the highest levels, Pacquiao can break his own record as the oldest welterweight world champion in history with a win over Barrios, after originally setting the mark at 40-years-old in his 2019 triumph over Keith Thurman.

The Filipino legend will have a tall task in front of him to achieve this feat, as the six-foot Barrios will bring a nearly seven-inch height advantage into his second defense of the WBC title. A two-division world champion, Barrios represents his Aztec heritage every time he enters the ring with an all-action style that’s delivered numerous electric clashes and which should combine with the always hard-charging Pacquiao for explosive action. Looking for a signature victory to separate himself from the other titleholders in boxing’s historic glamour division, Barrios will no doubt be keen to upend Pacquiao’s coronation when they square off on July 19.

A three-time Fighter of the Year and the one-time Boxing Writers Association of America’s Fighter of the Decade, Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 Kos), who hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines, is the only sitting Congressman and Senator to win a world title. After serving two terms as Congressman, Pacquiao was elected to a Philippine Senate seat in May 2016. Pacquiao’s boxing resume features victories over eight current Hall of Famers, anisan'izany Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Miguel Cotto, Shane Mosley, Tim Bradley and Juan Manuel Marquez.

Pacquiao’s most recent run in the 147-pound division saw him dispatch of former four-division world champion Adrien Broner in January 2019, before defeating the then-undefeated and reigning WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman in July of that same year. Pacquiao’s triumph over Thurman saw him send Thurman to the canvas in round one, the first time Thurman had been down in his career, on his way to edging out a decision in a 2019 Fight of the Year contender. Pacquiao would come up short in his next contest, dropping a decision to late-replacement Yordenis Ugas, who stepped in on short notice to replace an injured Errol Spence Jr. tamin'ny Aogositra 2021.

“Boxing is my passion and I’m so excited to be back in the ring,” said Pacquiao. “MGM Grand is like my second home in my career and it’s a place where I’ve had so many memorable fights, including my U.S. fanjanahan'i. The first title I ever won was a WBC title, and now I am back to fight for the WBC title once again. Mario Barrios is exactly the type of champion I like to fight, because he’s a real Mexican warrior like Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Juan Manuel Marquez. Come July 19, it’s going to be an amazing night for the fans.”

The 29-year-old Barrios (29-2-1, 18 Kos) stamped his place among the welterweight elite in September 2023 as he dropped former champion Yordenis Ugas twice to capture the interim belt by unanimous decision. Barrios followed that up by sending Fabian Maidana to the canvas as well on his way to another dominant decision victory, and was elevated to WBC Welterweight World Champion following the bout. His first defense of the title featured Barrios going toe-to-toe with Abel Ramos in one of 2024’s best fights in action that saw both men score knockdowns and that ultimately ended in a split-draw and Barrios retaining the belt.

Before his run at 147-pounds, Barrios was a world champion at 140-pounds, edging out Batyr Akhmedov in September 2019 with a clutch 12faha--round knockdown that sealed his victory on the scorecards. Throughout his career, Barrios’ only two defeats have come against two of the era’s best fighters in five-time, three-division champion Gervonta Davis and former unified welterweight world champion Keith Thurman. Representing his native San Antonio, Texas, Barrios trains in Las Vegas with top trainer Bob Santos.

Sharing the ring with a legend like Manny Pacquiao is an honor, but once the bell rings, dia ny raharaha rehetra,” said Barrios. “I respect everything he’s done in the sport, but on July 19, I’m defending what’s mine. This isn’t just another fight — it’s a legacy fight not just for me but for all the Mexican fans as well. Beating Pacquiao puts my name in a different conversation. Pacquiao is a Hall of Famer for a reason. Izy mafy, mipoaka, and dangerous at all times. But I’m younger, I’m hungrier, and I’m the champion for a reason. I’m coming in with everything I’ve got. Fighting in Vegas is always special, but this event is a truly massive stage and I’m ready to show out for the world.

**SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. TIM TSZYU II**

Two of the top fighters in the stacked 154-pound division, WBC Welterweight World ChampionSebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundoraand Australian superstarTim Tszyuwill meet in a 12-round rematch after their first fight saw Tszyu suffer a grisly cut in round three from an inadvertent Fundora elbow. The then WBO 154-pound champion Tszyu chose to fight on instead of bow out due to the cut, eventually losing his title, along with the then-vacant WBC belt, to Fundora by a close decision. Tamin'ny Jolay 19, these two rivals look to settle the score and establish who is number one at 154-pounds.

Fundora (22-1-1, 14 Kos) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with that victory over Tszyu, and most recently made a successful title defense in March by knocking out top contender Chordale Booker in round four on Prime Video. A native of Coachella, California, Fundora notably showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. The 27-year-old has defeated a slew of contenders throughout his career, with his only defeat coming to Brian Mendoza in 2023. Fundora represents one of boxing’s most accomplished families, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela. The two fighting Fundora’s are the first brother and sister to simultaneously hold world championships.

I’m more than happy to honor Tim’s rematch clause,” said Fundora. “I expect Tim to be in optimum condition. Fans should expect nothing but a very entertaining violent display.

Taorian'ny 2024 saw Tszyu (25-2, 18 Kos) lose a second-straight bout to IBF 154-pound champion Bakhram Murtazaliev following the Fundora fight, the 30-year-old recently returned to action in April by stopping young contender Joey Spencer in round four in Australia. Tszyu came into the first Fundora fight off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Aostralia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.

“You live for these moments in boxing,” said Tszyu. “I’m blessed to be going through it again — to rewrite the chapter. Even with the bad memories and demons from the first fight, this is what growth means as a human being. I can go through hell and come back on top. This time I’ve got a full 12-week camp focused on Fundora — not a few days’ notice — and I’m bringing that intensity. I’ve got a little place set aside for that green belt. I’m ready to go get it.”

**ISAAC CRUZ VS. ANGEL FIERRO II**

In another greatly anticipated rematch, hard-charging Mexican fan-favoriteIsaac “Pitbull” Cruzwill step in once again against his power-punching countrymanIsaac Fierroas they meet in a 12-round super lightweight rematch. In their first matchup, Cruz and Fierro fought nip-and-tuck over 10 high-octane rounds that saw them combine to throw over 1400 punches, with Cruz taking home the decision. While Cruz out landed Fierro 142 ny 113 over the first five rounds, Fierro was stronger in the second half, fipetrahana 132 shots to Cruz’s 106.

Buoyed on by his passionate fan base, Cross (27-3-1, 18 Kos) became a world champion in March 2024 as he hurt Rolly Romero badly in round one before eventually ending the fight in round eight via TKO to claim the WBA title. Vao haingana indrindra, Cruz bounced back from a loss to Jose Valenzuela by out-slugging countryman Fierro in that decision triumph in February. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. This rise led to the 26-year-old challenging undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021, a fight that saw Cruz lose by decision to become just the second fighter at the time to see the final bell against Davis. Trained by his father Isaac Cruz Sr., Cruz also owns stoppage wins over former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez, in addition to a 12-round decision over the then-unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera.

“I’m looking forward to fighting Angel Fierro again,"Hoy Cruz. “I know that I won the first fight, but I feel that I can do even better this time around. This is going to be more of the Mexican style boxing that fans want to see. I fight for the fans and I can’t wait to give them more action on July 19.”

Originally from Tijuana, Baja California, Meksika, Fierro (22-3-2, 17 Kos) now fights out of San Diego and has made a name for himself with his aggressive style and power punching prowess. The 26-year-old has fought professionally since 2015 and was undefeated in his first 17 fitsangantsanganan'ny. He announced his presence as a world contender in 2021 with a career-best victory as he rose from the canvas to stop former world champion Alberto Machado in round six. Prior to the Cruz fight, Fierro had a three-fight winning streak snapped when he lost a June decision against Alfredo Santiago, with the only other loss of Fierro’s career coming via split-decision in January 2020 against Alex Martin. The February 1 fight against Cruz marked Fierro’s third career fight stateside, and his first since a majority draw against Juan Carlos Burgos in March 2022.

“It is an honor to be fighting at MGM Grand where my idol Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. had so many fights,” said Fierro. “I will honor him by again showing real Mexican style boxing for the world. I feel that I beat ‘Pitbull’ in the first fight and I’m gonna prove it the second time around. Ho avy aho mba handresy!"

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. JOET GONZALEZ**

One of the sport’s premier action fighters, former two-division championBrandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroawill return to action against top contenderJoet Gonzalez in a 10-round featherweight attraction that will see the winner vaulted back into the world title picture.

The 28-year-old Figueroa (25-2-1, 19 Kos) will look to bounce back after losing his 126-pound title by decision in his February rematch against Stephen Fulton Jr. Figueroa had been elevated to WBC Featherweight World Champion before the fight, after Rey Vargas was declared champion in recess. Figueroa won the Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 2023 Fight of the Year contender that saw him score a unanimous decision over former champion Mark Magsayo. He returned last May to successfully defend his interim title with a ninth-round knockout of former champion Jessie Magdaleno, increasing his winning streak at the time to three straight. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former two-division champion Luis Nery in their May 2021 championship clash, as he stopped Nery with a body shot in round seven. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“I’m training in L.A. now with Manny Robles and everything has been going great,” said Figueroa. “I expect a great fight and that I won’t have to look for him to make an exciting fight for the fans. So expect an all-action throwdown. I feel like I owe it to my fans after my last performance. I just want to be more active this year and give the fans more of ‘The Heartbreaker’.”

Miady avy any Los Angeles, Gonzalez (27-4, 15 Kos) returns to the ring after earning a crucial victory over fellow contender Arnold Khegai in March. The 31-year-old turned pro in 2012 amin'ny 23 mahitsy fandresena, earning a world title shot against Shakur Stevenson in 2019 that he would ultimately drop by decision. Gonzalez would go on to challenge for featherweight world titles two more times, losing decisions to Emanuel Navarrete in October 2021 and Luis Alberto Lopez in September 2023. Gonzalez was a sensational and accomplished amateur fighter, with his resume including two victories over Gervonta Davis.

“This is a new opportunity for me and I plan to put on a great fight against a very tough opponent in Brandon Figueroa,"Hoy Gonzalez. “I’m training very hard like I always do and the fans are going to get an exciting fight and a memorable show. We’re both warriors showing up to win that night, so expect fireworks.”

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THREE SENSATIONAL UNDERCARD MATCHUPS HIGHLIGHT ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. YORDENIS UGAS SHOWTIME PPV® ON SATURDAY, APRILY 16

Lightweight Contender Isaac Cruz Battles Former World Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in Premier Boxing Champions Co-Main Event From AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas

Rising Unbeaten Jose Valenzuela Takes On Former World Champion Francisco Vargas in Lightweight Duel

Unbeaten Cody Crowley Faces Veteran Contender Josesito Lopez
in Battle of All-Action Welterweights Kicking Off
Pay-Per-View at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT

Tapakila amin'ny Sale Ankehitriny!

Arlington, T.X. – Martsa 17, 2022 - Three sensational matchups have been added to the SHOWTIME PPV lineup headlined by WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA World Champion Yordenis Ugas squaring off in a welterweight title unification clash on Saturday, Aprily 16 live from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela miady teo aloha tompon-daka eran- Francisco "El Bandido" Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

Tapakila ho an'ny velona hetsika, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

“One of the year’s biggest events will feature a deserving pay-per-view undercard lineup loaded with consequential matchups that are primed to deliver drama and action,” said Tom Brown, Filohan'ny TGB Promotions. “Isaac Cruz showed against Gervonta Davis that he is a star in the making, and he’ll be looking to display those talents once again against an accomplished opponent in Yuriorkis Gamboa. Bebe Kokoa, another rising star in Jose Valenzuela will step up in competition against former champion Francisco Vargas, while Cody Crowley and Josesito Lopez will both bring their high-octane styles into the ring in what shapes up to be a ‘can’t-miss’ showdown to open the loaded SHOWTIME PPV.”

The 23-year-old Cruz (22-2-1, 15 Kos) will return to the ring after dropping a competitive decision against three-division champion Gervonta Davis on SHOWTIME PPV in December. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October. Cruz followed that up in 2021 by winning a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matías Romero in March and by defeating former champion Francisco Vargas by decision in June. After making his U.S. Debut tamin'ny Desambra 2019, Cruz went unbeaten in his next four bouts, appearing on SHOWTIME® three times in addition to beating Magdaleno on the Davis vs. Leo Santa Cruz SHOWTIME PPV undercard.

“I can’t wait to be back in the ring and to fight at AT&T Stadium,"Hoy Cruz. “I love the fans in Texas, they always give me tremendous support. My mampiroborobo, Manny Pacquiao, has fought at AT&T Stadium before and won both times. I’m excited to follow in his footsteps against a very accomplished former champion in Gamboa. I’m coming to show the fans why I’m one of the best lightweights in the world and to drive Gamboa into retirement on April 16.”

Gamboa (30-4, 18 Kos) is a former unified featherweight champion, holding the IBF and WBA 126-pound titles between 2009 ary 2011. A native of Guantanamo, Kiobà, he now lives and trains in Miami, Fla. He dropped a showdown against Terence Crawford in a 2014 Ady ny Taona, before rebounding to win seven of eight fights. That run included victories over former world champions Jason Sosa and Roman Martinez, putting Gamboa back into world title contention. In his last two fights, Gamboa has dropped contests against current lightweight world champions, losing via 12faha--round TKO to Gervonta Davis in 2019 and by decision against Devin Haney in November 2020.

“I always come to the ring to display my talents and April 16 tsy hisy hafa,” said Gamboa. “It’s very motivating to be facing a young, strong opponent like Isaac Cruz. I’m going to test him and see if he can stand up to my power. I’m coming to win and make a big statement that I still have what it takes to become champion again.”

The 22-year-old Valenzuela (11-0, 7 Kos) now trains as a stablemate of unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavidez as he seeks to move from prospect to contender in 2022. Born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Meksika, Valenzuela turned pro in 2018 and rode a five-bout knockout streak before earning his first 10-round decision in a victory over Deiner Berrio in September 2021. Valenzuela capped off his breakout 2021 tamin'ny volana Desambra, dominating Austin Dulay on his way to a TKO in round four.

“It’s a dream come true to be on a high-stakes, stacked card like this,” said Valenzuela. “I’ve admired and studied Spence for a long time, especially because we’re both lefties. I can’t wait to get in the ring. I’m not overlooking or underestimating Francisco Vargas in any way. I’m expecting fireworks. You always get a big fight when two Mexican warriors go head-to-head, so I know the fans are going to be delighted with what they see on April 16.”

Fighting out of Mexico City, Vargas (27-3-2, 19 Kos) won a 130-pound title in 2015 by defeating Takashi Miura in one of the year’s best fights. The 37-year-old would go on to fight Orlando Salido to an action-packed draw before losing his title to Miguel Berchelt in another memorable affair. Vargas later defeated Stephen Smith and Rod Salka before losing in his rematch with Berchelt in 2019. Vao haingana indrindra, Vargas began campaigning at lightweight, scoring back-to-back victories over Ezequiel Aviles in 2019 and Otto Gamez in 2020, prior to dropping a decision against Isaac Cruz in his last fight in June 2021.

“It is an honor to be on such a big card with so many great fighters,” said Vargas. “I’m going to come prepared for this fight and ready to leave the ring with a victory. I know Valenzuela will be trying to make a statement, but I’m coming to do the same. Toy ny mahazatra, the fans can expect a tremendous fight from start to finish.”

Representing his native Ontario, Kanada, Crowley (20-0, 9 Kos) returns to the ring after a sensational SHOWTIME debut in December 2021 that saw him beat the previously unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov by unanimous decision. Crowley had previously defeated Josh Torres in September 2020 following a 2019 run that saw him win a Canadian super welterweight title with a 12-round decision over Stuart McLellan in February before successfully defending that title with a dominant decision over Mian Hussain in October. The 28-year-old returned to fight in the U.S. for his last two fights after seven of his first eight pro fights took place in the U.S.

“After my win in December on SHOWTIME, I’m ready to accept the next challenge on my journey to becoming welterweight champion of the world,” said Crowley. “Josesito Lopez is always tough and he brings an exciting style to the table. Unfortunately for him, he will discover what 20 fighters before him have learned, which is that I will not be stopped from achieving my destiny. I want to thank my team for this opportunity to display my skills, heart and relentlessness on this great card at the home of the Dallas Cowboys.”

Lopez (38-8, 21 Kos) earned the nickname “The Riverside Rocky’’ because of his go-for-broke style in the ring. He has stepped in across from some of the top boxers in the sport, including champions Canelo Alvarez, Marcos Maidana, Andre Berto and Victor Ortiz. The 37-year-old from Riverside, California is always a tough out in the ring as noted by his narrow majority decision loss to then-champion Keith Thurman in 2019. Since that loss, Lopez has put together back-to-back victories, defeating John Molina, Jr. and Francisco Santana.

“I’m eager and very motivated to step back in the ring and prove myself as one of the best fighters in the world,"Hoy Lopez. “I expect a stiff challenge from Crowley and the fans can expect to see me at my very best. I’m in great shape and ready to put everything on the line. You will definitely want to make sure you don’t miss my fight on April 16.”

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GERVONTA “TANK” DAVIS REMAINS UNDEFEATED WITH THRILLING UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER ISAAC “PITBULLCRUZ

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Description automatically generated
Sebastian Fundora Outpoints Sergio Garcia in Co-Main Event;
Carlos Adames Defeats Sergiy Derevyanchenko in an Exciting Fight,
and Eduardo Ramirez Dominates Miguel Marriaga
in SHOWTIME PPV Undercard Action

Click ETO for Photos from Ryan Hafey / Premier Boxing Champions

Click ETO for Photos from Esther Lin / FOTOANA FAMPISEHOANA

Click ETO for Photos from Sean Michael Ham / Mayweather Promotions

Los Angeles (Desambra 5, 2021) –Boxing superstar and five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis put his boxing skills on display, winning a rousing 12-round round unanimous decision over the relentless Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz to retain his WBA Lightweight World Title in front of a star-studded, sellout crowd of 15,850 at STAPLES Center live on SHOWTIME Pay-Per-View, tamin'ny hetsika natolotry ny Premier Boxing Champions.

Scorecards vakiana 116-112 and two scores of 115-113, all for Davis.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with scores of current and former NBA stars in attendance, including Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Kawhi Leonard, Dwight Howard, Kenny Smith, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce among others.

Accompanied by superstar rapper Lil Durk, Davis entered the ring in Laker purple and gold; tassels along his trunks with the late Kobe Bryant’s number “8” and “24” on each side. Cruz celebrated his Mexican heritage with a mariachi band behind him as he strode toward the ring.

There was no feeling-out process in the first. Cruz charged at the defending champion, pinning him against the ropes and wailing away.

“That’s my style. ‘Pitbull’ is always going to be on the attack,"Hoy Cruz. “I think we retained rhythm from the start to the end.”

Davis found his rhythm in the second and third, circling the ring and walking Cruz into shots. In the fourth, Cruz concentrated his attack on the body, pounding Davis’ ribs.

The 27-year-old Baltimore native turned on the power in the fourth, alternating between the right hook and left cross behind his southpaw stance. More punishing blows came from Davis during the fifth.

“He’s a shorter fighter, so I was throwing down on the top of his head,"Hoy Davis. “I hit him with my knuckle and messed it up. I hurt my hand in the sixth round. No matter if the opponent is taller or shorter, I’ve got to get through it. Izy ny mpiady. Even though he didn’t win, a star was born tonight.”

“It was right around the fifth round I saw that his hand wasn’t working correctly,” Cruz observed.

Davis boxed beautifully in the middle rounds, firing quick shots and pivoting away from the return fire. A right hook in the eighth briefly buzzed Cruz and brought the audience to their feet. But just when it appeared as if the fight was slipping away, Cruz fought fire with fire, landing a flush uppercut seconds before the bell.

The 23-year-old Mexican picked up the pace in the latter rounds, keeping Davis on his toes and pounding away. Davis held his own, fighting back on even terms until the fight’s end.

Naturally, Cruz believed he deserved the victory.

“Viva Mexico. I have nothing to say, the fans are speaking on who won this fight,"Hoy izy.

Following a successful title defense, Davis said he’s ready for all comers.

“L.A., we did it for Kobe,"Hoy Davis. “At the beginning of the fight, he came on strong. I felt as the fight was going, he was breaking down. But I hurt my hand, so I wasn’t able to get him out of there.

“Whatever the best opportunity is for me, I’ll do it. All of them guys are easy work. I’m the top dog.”

Ao amin'ny fiaraha-main hetsika, Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora moved closer to a world title shot with a 12-round unanimous decision over the previously-unbeaten Sergio Garcia in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator.

Final scores read 118-110, 117-111 ary 115-113.

Fundora established control quickly in the first, snapping Spain’s Garcia’s head back with a booming left. The two traded evenly through the early rounds. Garcia had his moments, including a sharp overhand right in the fifth that drew blood from Fundora’s nose.

The 23-year-old Fundora found his range in the sixth, pumping the jab and using his 6-foot-5 frame and 80-inch reach to keep Garcia at bay.

“I was using my distance a lot more. I wanted to display something different than what I’m used to,” said Fundora. “Height was definitely a difference in this fight.”

Garcia struggled to land during the second half of the bout, save for a couple moments in the 12faha- when the two combatants stood toe-to-toe.

“Maybe things could have been different if I had been more aggressive from the beginning,” said Garcia. “I shouldn’t have let myself get carried away by what he was doing.”

Fundora believes he’s ready for a world title shot.

“We just beat the No. 2 ao amin'ny kapila bitika, so we have No.1, and we have the champion,” said Fundora. “Whoever they give us next, we’re ready for.”

In a thrilling back and forth, Carlos Adames (21-1, 16 Kos) overcame a stiff challenge from former world title challenger Sergiy Derevyanchenko (13-4, 10 Kos) to win a 10-round majority decision in their WBC Middleweight World Title Eliminator.

Both combatants had their moments, but facing the toughest opponent of his career, the 27-year-old Adames shined. One judge scored the middleweight bout even at 95-95, while the other two scored it for Adames by scores of 96-94 ary 97-93.

“This means a lot for me in my career and this is a big accomplishment winning against a fighter of his caliber,” said Adames, who was born in the Dominican Republic and fights out of Washington Heights in New York City.

I am aggressive and speedy by nature, so I came in ready to do my thing. He started slow, wanting to see what would happen, and simply had the wrong game plan. He got a bit tired as the fight went on, took a lot of hard shots from me and it was evident that I caused him a lot of damage.”

“I expect my opponent to fight the same style. It was nothing special for me, just a quality fight,"Hoy Derevyanchenko.

“He stayed southpaw, that was the difference in the fight. I don’t know what I’ll do next. I need a little bit of rest and then I will go back to the gym because I love boxing and I love the show.”

This gives me an opportunity to move on,” said Adames. “I dominate at both 154 ary 160, so wherever they give me the opportunity to fight for a championship is where I’ll go.”

In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast, super featherweight contender Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez (26-2-3, 12 Kos) was in peak form, winning a wide 10-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Miguel Marriaga.

“I would like to thank the fans, SHOWTIME and the Montiel family for supporting me. Marriaga was a tough opponent, but I managed to dominate,” said Ramirez. “I had a varied fighting style and kept him on his toes the whole time.”

Marriaga (30-5, 26 Kos) was the aggressor throughout, particularly in the first round as he backed Ramirez up with combination punching. The latter found his range midway through the frame, utilizing an accurate jab. In the third, a right hook followed by an overhand left floored an off-balance Marriaga for a flash knockdown.
“We started out strong, but then things got progressively harder. Having said that, we are pleased with the work we put in today,” said Marriaga. “We should have been more savvy, but we tried our hardest in the face of a great opportunity that unfortunately we could not take advantage of.”

Ramirez dominated after scoring the knockdown, punishing Marriaga from then on with an assortment of shots to the head and body. Final punch stats had Ramirez landing 280 ny 762 (36.7%) total punches to Marriaga’s 159 amin'ny 689 (21.3%).

“Now I’m going to relax with my family and enjoy the holidays,” said Ramirez. “Then hopefully 2022 will come with a title shot for me.

Tonight’s blockbuster pay-per-view event will re-air on SHOWTIME this Saturday, Desambra 11 amin'ny 10 p.m. ET / PT. The delayed telecast of Davis vs. Cruz will open the telecast featuring WBC Bantamweight World Champion and future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire as he will defend his title against undefeated top contender and fellow Filipino countryman Reymart Gaballo headlining in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Tennis Stadium in Carson.

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handled blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The executive producer was four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The telecast was directed by Bob Dunphy. Former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna served as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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Gervonta Davis to Defend WBA Lightweight World Title Against Hard-Hitting Isaac Cruz – Alahady, Desambra 5

Unbeaten Five-Time World Champion Gervonta Davis to Defend WBA Lightweight World Title Against Hard-Hitting Isaac Cruz on Sunday, Desambra 5 on SHOWTIME PPV®

Cruz Replaces Rolando Romero in Main Event at

STAPLES Center in Los Angeles

Tapakila amin'ny Sale Ankehitriny!

Los Angeles (Novambra 3, 2021) – Unbeaten five-time world champion and boxing’s hottest attractionGervonta “Tank” Davis will defend his WBA Lightweight Championship against hard-hittingIsaac “Pitbull’’ Cruz amin'ny alahady, Desambra 5 live on SHOWTIME PPV from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Cross, laharana faha No. 2 ao amin'ny IBF, steps in to replace Rolando Romero.

Tapakila ho an'ny velona hetsika, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, amidy izao ary azo vidiana amin'nyAXS.com.

Davis’ third-straight pay-per-view headlining attraction will see him battle the hardnosed Cruz, who has rightly earned the nickname “Pitbull’’ during his professional career.

“This is going to be a tremendous fight on SHOWTIME PPV,” said Leonard Ellerbe, Tale Jeneralin'ny Mayweather Promotions. “Isaac Cruz was ready for this big opportunity and I expect him to come ready to deliver the fight of his life. Na izany aza, Gervonta Davis is a generational talent who’s only getting better. This fight is going to end in spectacular fashion on December 5.”

“Kudos to Isaac Cruz for stepping in as a replacement opponent in a high-pressure, pay per view fight against one of the brightest stars in boxing in Gervonta Davis,’’ said Tom Brown, Filohan'ny TGB Promotions. “Cruz presents a different, and some would argue a more difficult challenge to Tank Davis. Cruz won’t back down and he’ll bring the fight to Davis from the opening bell. We’ve all seen Gervonta’s blend of superb boxing skills and explosive power, and we know what he’s capable of. It will be the irresistible force versus the immovable object, which means fireworks at STAPLES Center and on SHOWTIME PPV on Sunday, December 5.’’

Davis (25-0, 24 Kos), star of the Mayweather Promotions stable, added another highlight filled performance in June, as he stopped previously unbeaten Mario Barrios to capture a 140-pound title and become a three-division world champion. The Baltimore-native captured his lightweight championship with a 12faha--round knockout of former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in December 2019.

“I respect Isaac Cruz for stepping up and taking the fight, but everyone knows what I do,"Hoy Davis. “I come in looking for the knockout and that’s exactly what I’m going to do in this fight. I’m back in Los Angeles where the stars shine and I’m going to light it up against Isaac Cruz at STAPLES Center on December 5.’’

The 23-year-old Cruz (22-1-1, 15 Kos) will be looking to rough up Davis and make him work overtime if he wants to come away with the win. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in September. Cruz followed that up in 2021 by winning a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matías Romero in March, and most recently defeating former champion Francisco Vargas by decision in June. Since making his U.S. Debut tamin'ny Desambra 2019, the 23-year-old has gone unbeaten in his next four ring appearances, appearing on SHOWTIME three times in addition to beating Magdaleno on the Gervonta Davis vs. Leo Santa Cruz SHOWTIME PPV undercard.

“First I want to thank Gervonta Davis and his team for this opportunity – an opportunity I won’t let get past me,’’ Cruz said. “God willing I’ll be world champion on December 5. This fight is a very big motivation for me as a professional and as a personal goal. I’m sure after December 5 everyone in boxing will know the name Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz.’’

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JERMALL CHARLO TO FACE JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL SATURDAY, JONA 19 AT TOYOTA CENTER IN HOUSTON LIVE ON SHOWTIME

Hard-Hitting Lightweight Contender Isaac Cruz Faces Former World Champion Francisco Vargas in the Co-Main Event

Former World Champion Angelo Leo Duels Mexican Contender
Aaron Alameda to Kick Off Telecast at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT

Tickets on Sale Tomorrow, Alakamisy, Mey 13 amin'ny 12 p.m. CT!

Houston (Mey 12, 2021) – Undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo will enter the ring for a Juneteenth Day celebration in his hometown when he takes on hard-hitting Juan Macías Montiel amin'ny sabotsy, Jona 19 at Toyota Center in Houston headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event live on SHOWTIME.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT and feature rising lightweight contender Isaac Cruz miady teo aloha tompon-daka eran- Francisco Vargas in the 10-round co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, izao tontolo izao teo aloha tompon-daka Angelo Leo returns to take on Mexican contender Aaron Alameda ao amin'ny 10-manodidina Super bantamweight bout.

Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel, in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo will fight in Houston for the fourth time as a pro and look to keep his undefeated record intact against the upset-minded Montiel.

The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event go on sale tomorrow, Alakamisy, Mey 13 amin'ny 12 p.m. CT and can be purchased attoyotacenter.com. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.

Charlo (31-0, 22 Kos) will return to fight in his hometown for the first time since a June 2019 unanimous decision victory over Brandon Adams on SHOWTIME. The 30-year-old most recently scored an impressive victory over top middleweight contender Sergey Derevyanchenko in their September 2020 fifandonana. Charlo has held the WBC middleweight belt since 2019, after a championship reign at 154-pounds that lasted from 2015 ny alalan ' 2017. He has compiled a perfect 6-0 record since moving up to middleweight and owns victories over former champions Julian Williams, Austin Trout and Cornelius Bundrage at super welterweight.

“It’s great to be back in the ring, headlining on SHOWTIME and defending my title in front of my hometown fans in Houston,” said Charlo. “Fighting on Juneteenth means a lot to me because there is a battle going on far greater than this. Izany hoe:, I have to handle my business on June 19. Montiel is a tough, tanora, power puncher. I know he wants my crown, but I’m hungrier than ever and ready to put on a show for my fans. Get ready for a special, explosive night.”

Representing his native Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Meksika, Montiel (22-4-2, 22 Kos) has earned knockouts in all 22 of his pro victories, as the heavy-handed brawler established himself as a hard-hitting force. The 27-year-old has put together an unbeaten streak since moving up to middleweight, first competing at the weight in September 2017, and most recently scoring a first-round knockout victory over longtime contender James Kirkland in December 2020. He owns stoppages of Marco Reyes and Gustavo Castro, and a draw against Hugo Centeno, Jr. amin'ny middleweight. Montiel had previously campaigned at welterweight and super welterweight, dropping a February 2017 bout to former champion Jaime Munguia in a 147-pound fight.

“I know that I am fighting the best middleweight in the world, but he has never faced someone who can punch like I can,” said Montiel. “All my losses in the past are from not training properly and trying to win by one-punch knockout. I’ve grown up and become a man since then. I proved that I was different when I beat Marco Reyes in 2019, and I haven’t left the gym since then. I’ve worked hard every day to become world champion and I will display everything I’ve learned on June 19.”

The 22-year-old Cruz (21-1-1, 15 Kos) shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in September. Cruz followed that up this March, when he won a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matias Romero. Since making his U.S. debut on the undercard of Jermall Charlo vs. Dennis Hogan in December 2019, the Mexico City-native has been unbeaten in his four ring appearances. This will mark his fifth fight in 20 volana, the last four of which will have come on SHOWTIME, including headlining ShoBox: Ny taranaka manaraka tamin'ny volana Febroary 2020.

“Me and Vargas are going to show the fans true Mexican-style boxing on June 19,” said Cruz. “He is also from Mexico City, so I know this fight will be toe-to-toe. It’s my time to show the fans that I’m the best Mexican lightweight in the world. In with the new, and out with the old. I want to thank my promoter, Senator Manny Pacquiao, for his support and belief that I will become world champion very soon.”

Also a native of Mexico City, Vargas (27-2-2, 19 Kos) won a 130-pound title in 2015 by defeating Takashi Miura in one of the year’s best fights. The 36-year-old would go on to fight Orlando Salido to an action-packed draw before losing his title to Miguel Berchelt in another memorable affair. Vargas went on to defeat Stephen Smith and Rod Salka before losing in his rematch with Berchelt in 2019. Vao haingana indrindra, Vargas began campaigning at lightweight, scoring back-to-back victories with a technical decision over Ezequiel Aviles in October 2019 and a TKO over Otto Gamez in November 2020.

“I only know how to fight wars and the fans should expect nothing less on June 19,” said Vargas. “I am a warrior, and people are going to remember the reasons why I was in two Fight of the Year battles when they see me in the ring with Isaac Cruz. I want to thank my whole team for putting together this fight that I know the fans will enjoy.”

Lion (20-1, 9 Kos), who fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable, became the first world champion from his hometown of Albuquerque, N.M., since legendary three-division champion Johnny Tapia, when he defeated Tramaine Williams by unanimous decision in August 2020. The 26-year-old dropped the belt when he lost a decision to unbeaten Stephen Fulton Jr. in January on SHOWTIME. Lion, who trains in Las Vegas, will look to re-establish his position in the stacked 122-pound division on June 19.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring for this fight,” said Leo. “I wasn’t the same fighter in my last fight, as I was when I won the title. That’s given me a big chip on my shoulder. I figured out my mistakes and learned a lot about myself. I’m here to show people that I’m still a top contender and a threat in this division. Alameda is a real contender and he’s not an opponent I’m taking lightly. Whoever comes out on top in this fight will be right there for another title shot and I plan on that being me.”

The 27-year-old Aaron Alameda (25-1, 13 Kos) was able to stop Luis Nery’s knockout streak but came up on the short end of the decision in their super bantamweight title fight last September. Prior to the Nery fight, the Sonora, Mexico native had back-to-back knockouts over Jordan Escobar and Breilor Teran. A mpanohana satria 2014, his previous action in the U.S. saw him earn a sixth-round knockout over Andre Wilson in 2016.

“I can’t wait for another big fight on June 19,” said Alameda. “I showed that I belong with the best in my last fight against Luis Nery, and I will be even better against Leo. My goal is to become world champion and I plan on displaying everything I’ve worked on in this fight. I’m excited to battle Leo and give the fans a great show.”

# # #

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I DAVID BENAVIDEZ dia mametraka ny fizarana SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT amin'ny fampandrenesana,MITSY RONALD ELLIS AO AMIN'NY FARITANY FAHAMARINANA FIVORIANA AMIN'NY SABOTSY SABOTSY 11

Sensei-maivana Isaac Cruz Nahazo fanapahan-kevitra niarahana nanohitra an'i Matias Romero tamin'ny fahaverezana voalohany; Terrell Gausha dia nandresy ny fandresena TKO nandresy an'i Jamontay Clark tamin'ny fisokafan'ny Telecast tamin'ny SHOWTIME® amin'ny Premier Boxing Champions Event

Click ETO fa Photos from Amanda Westcott / Showtime
(Halefa vetivety ny sary)

Tsindrio Eto raha hijery ny fotoana farany amin'ny hetsika lehibe

Tsindrio eto raha hijery ny resadresaka taorian'ny ady nataon'i David Benavidez

UNCASVILLE, Conn. - Martsa 13, 2021 - Tompondaka eran-tany teo aloha David Benavidez mitazona ny firaketana ny peratra tonga lafatra miaraka amin'ny 11faha--Fandresena fandresena ara-teknika manodidina ny veterana Ronald Ellis ao amin'ny hetsika WBC Super Middleweight Lohateny Eliminator azy amin'ny asabotsy alina SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast, mivantana amin'ny SHOWTIME avy any Mohegan Sun Arena any Uncasville, Conn., tamin'ny hetsika Premier Boxing Champions.

Phoenix's Benavidez (24-0, 21 Kos) hafainganam-pandehan'ny tànana mamirapiratra, fahamendrehana sy hery rehefa nanjakazaka tamin'i Ellis izy (18-2-2, 12 Kos) ny Lynn, Mass., ny 11 fihodinana alohan'ny mpitsara Johnny Callas farany nanofahofa ady 2:03 ny boribory penultimate. Ilay kintana 24 taona dia nitazona fitarihana lehibe teo amin'ireo scorecards telo (99-91, 98-92 x2) amin'ny ora fijanonana.

“Tsara ny fanombatombanana ny zava-bitako saingy fantatro fa afaka nanao zavatra tsara kokoa aho,”Hoy ​​i Benavidez, izay nanitatra ny rakitsoratra tonga lafatra nataony 24-0. “Ronald Ellis dia mpifaninana henjana. Manantena fotsiny aho fa tian'ireo mpankafy ny zavatra hitany. Nanipy fitambarana marobe aho, totohondry ao anaty fonosana. Betsaka ny fotoana noheveriko fa hiala i Ellis nefa tsy nanao izany. Mankany aminy ny satroka, dia ny ho sarotra lehilahy. Somary tara kely noho ny naniriako azy io saingy ny fijanonana dia fijanonana ihany. Manantena aho fa nahazo seho tsara ireo mpankafy anio alina. ”

Mpanakorontana ady totohondry no nitady tompon-daka eran-tany kilasy tanora antonony indrindra teo amin'ny tantara ady totohondry, Benavidez dia nivadika fahaiza-manao matanjaka noporofoin'ny statistika totohondry, fipetrahana 289 ny 532 paompy herinaratra natsipy noho ny tahan'ny fifandraisan'ny maso 54%. Benavidez mifandray 50 totohondry ao amin'ny 11faha- fihodinana izay niafara tamin'ny fijanonana. Samy nitambatra nanipy ireo mpiady roa 1,403 punches. Taorian'ny fandreseny nanjaka tamin'ny SHOWTIME, Benavidez dia dingana iray manakaiky kokoa ny famerenana ny amboara eran'izao tontolo izao.

“Iriko ry zalahy lehibe rehetra,”Hoy ​​i Benavidez nanampy. “Miteny ho an'ny mpankafy ihany koa, Tian'izy ireo ny hahita ahy manohitra ireo lehilahy lehibe rehetra satria araka ny hitanao, Tiako ny manipy totohondry. Tiako ny mampiato ny olona ka ady mifanentana amiko na iza na iza anarana lehibe. Mila ... aho [Jermall] Charlo, Canelo Alvarez, Caleb Plant, izy rehetra. ”

Ellis, 31, nampiseho finiavana lehibe sy saokany matanjaka tokoa rehefa nitazona ilay fanafihana tsy an-kijanona avy amin'ilay tompon-daka eran-tany teo aloha. Matetika miasa amin'ny tady rehefa nanery ny hetsika i Benavidez, Nidina i Ellis 89 ny 334 jabs.

“Azoko natao ny namoaka ilay jab ary nifehy zavatra kely kokoa ary tsy namela azy hamely ahy,”Hoy ​​i Ellis. "Hell he te ho vita. Tsy te hanome izany fahafaham-po izany aho. Azoko natao ny nifindra kely kokoa ary tsy nitifitra be loatra tamin'ny lohako. Mankany aminy ny satroka. Nanao izay tsy maintsy nataony izy. Nampalahelo ahy na oviana na oviana izy, izany no zavatra mampihomehy. Nitifitra be dia be aho fa tsy nanimba ahy na tsy nampijaly ahy fatratra. Tsy nieritreritra ny hiala mihitsy aho. ”

Very sary masina ny tontolon'ny fanatanjahantena androany satria notaterina ny fahafatesan'i Marvin Hagler nahagaga ora maro talohan'ny nanombohan'ny tel tel mivantana. Mpikambana ao amin'ny Hall of Fame momba ny ady totohondry iraisam-pirenena, Hagler, izay 66 taona, niady tamin'ny hetsika lehibe voalohany natao tao amin'ny SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tamin'ny volana martsa 10, 1986. Hagler dia nomem-boninahitra amina lanonana 10-isa talohan'ny hetsika lehibe anio hariva. Tsindrio eto raha hijerena ny Lova SHOWTIME an'i Marvin Hagler

Benavidez dia nieritreritra ny fahafatesan'i Hagler taorian'ny tolona: "Nihaona tamin'i Marvin aho taloha, ary tompon-daka lehibe izy. Nisy nilaza tamiko fa niady tamin'ny ady voalohany tamin'ny SHOWTIME izy. Nisy olona tao amin'ny ekipako nampahafantatra ahy ora vitsivitsy talohan'ny tolona izay efa nolalovany. Mampalahelo ary tsy ho hita izy. Tena angano izy. ”

Ao amin'ny fiaraha-main hetsika, Isaac Cruz (21-1-1, 15 Kos) an'i Mexico City dia nahazo fandresena am-pifanarahana nandresen'i Arzantina Matias Romero (24-1, 8 Kos) ao anatin'ny Eliminator Lohateny WBA Mavesatra 12 fihodinana. Nanamarika ny fotoana voalohany nandehanan'i Cruz 22 taona 12 boribory amin'ny asany matihanina. Ny scorecards an'ny mpitsara dia namaky 114-113, 115-112 ary 118-109. Ny scorer an'i SHOWTIME Steve Farhood no nahazo ny laharana tamin'ny tolona 115-112, manome boribory 10 ny alalan ' 12 amin'ny kintana miposaka.

"Tsy faly amin'ny fomba fanaon'ny tolona aho fa afa-po aho fa nitondra ny fandresena nody ary tonga tamin'ny No.. 1 toerana ao amin'ny WBA,"Hoy Cruz. "Tsy fantatro izay hitranga [hatrany amin'ny mpitsara]. Noterenay ny ady tamin'ny fotoana rehetra ary tsy ho afaka nanao zavatra tamiko mihitsy ireo mpitsara rehefa izaho no nanery ny tolona. ”

Nandritra ny raharaha 36 minitra, Tsy nitsahatra nanery ny mpanohitra azy i Cruz izay nitarika an'i Romero, ny matihanina efa za-draharaha kokoa, mitazona be loatra amin'ny fanandramana hampijanona ny tsindry. Na eo aza ny fampitandremana matetika ny mpitsara Harvey Dock, ilay Romero 24 taona dia tsy voasazy mihitsy. Nandritra ny fifaninanana henjana sy farany, na izany aza, Nahazo teboka iray tamin'ny fihodinana fahenina i Cruz noho ny famonoana ambany.

"Izy dia mpiady izay tsy te-hifanakalo totohondry,”Hoy ​​ihany i Cruz, momba ny fitsaboana maharitra. “Leo be an'ireo trondro aho — tsy nisy fampitandremana mihitsy momba azy. Nanao izay tsara indrindra vitako teo aho. Tsy ny fomba tsara indrindra tiako anaovana azy io fa misaotra an'Andriamanitra naharesy ny tolona izahay ary nody ny fandresena nody.

Romero dia nanolotra jab mahomby nandritra ny tolona, fipetrahana 89 ny 282, fa ny famelezan'ny hery an'i Cruz no nahazoany fandresena tamin'ny farany. Cross, iza izao no No. 1 mpiady ho an'ny amboara eran-tany 135 kilao, niantsona 145 ny 459 fahefana punches, ao anatin'izany ny 91 vatana tifitra.

"Mazava ho azy fa tsy faly amin'ny fanapahan-kevitra aho,», Hoy i Romero taorian'ny fahaverezan'ny matihanina voalohany. “Noheveriko angamba fa fisarihana. Amin'ny ankapobeny dia faly amin'ny zava-bitako aho. Izy no tokony ho ilay 'Pit Bull' ary izaho nandeha lavitra. Tokony hanararaotra ireo fotoana mety ianao rehefa aseho izy ireo ary iriko raha mba manam-potoana bebe kokoa hiomanana amin'ity tolona ity aho. ”

Amin'ny fifandonana amin'ny hariva, Cleveland's Terrell Gausha (22-2-1, 11 Kos) nahazo isa matihanina tamin'ny fihodinana faharoa tamin'ny fihodinana teknikan'i Ohioan namany Jamontay Clark (15-2-1, 7 Kos) ny Cincinnati. Gausha, 33, Tsy tonga tamin'ny paompy herinaratra iray akory tamin'ny fihodinana voalohany fa niasa tsara tao ambadiky ny jab, mandresy amin'ny fihodinana amina scorecard roa an'ny mpitsara. Efa ho vita ny fihodinana faharoa, Gausha dia nanohitra tamim-pahamendrehana ny tànana havia havokavoka avy any atsimo Clark izay nandefa ny zaza 26 taona ho any amin'ny lamba kankana tamin'ny asany matihanina. Clark nandresy ny fanisana fa fotoana vitsy taty aoriana dia nanjary totohondry totohondry tsy voavaly teo amin'ny zoro tsy miandany. Nitsambikina ny mpitsara, Arthur Mercante, ary niantso fijanonana ho an'ny ady tany 2:44 ny fihodinana faharoa.

“Fantatro fa zaza henjana i Jamontay, Efa nijery azy hatramin'ny Cleveland aho ka efa fantatro ny momba azy,Hoy i Gausha. "Nahatsapa aho fa nanana fotoana handroahana azy saingy tsy fantatro hoe hanao ahoana ny ady. Saingy mahatsapa aho fa nanao tsara, nanatanteraka ny lalao drafitra. Ireo mpanazatra ahy dia efa nianatra filma ary novonoinay.

“Nandany ny fotoanako fotsiny aho,”Hoy ​​i Gausha nanampy. “Nametraka vela-pandrika aho. Fantatro fa hisokatra izy amin'ny farany, fa tsy maintsy nitandrina ihany koa aho satria bandy rangy izy, manana tànana havia tsara. Saingy fantatro fa misy lavaka ao amin'ny lalao misy azy ary novonoinay ary rehefa niseho ilay fotoana, napetrakao io tanana ankavanana lehibe io. ”

Amin'ny fandreseny amin'ny fampiatoana mafy, ny 2012 Nivoaka ho mpifaninana amina lohateny tso-doko tamin'ny sokajy super welterweight i Olympian. Tao amin'ny amboara eran-tany voalohany sy tokana notifiriny 2017, Gausha dia nandatsaka fanapahan-kevitra iraisana tamin'i Erislandy Lara, tompon-daka eran-tany amin'ny welterweight amin'izao fotoana izao.

“Fantatro fa nanao fanambarana aho androany hariva,”Hoy ​​i Gausha nanampy. “Nampandrenesiko ny fizarazarana. Voahidy sy mitondra entana aho ary vonona. Te-ho tompon-daka eran'izao tontolo izao aho ka mitady hiady amin'izay mila ady mba hahatongavako amin'ny fehikibo. "

Asabotsy ny SHOWTIME tompon-daka ady totohondry telecast dia hamerina ny alahady amin'ny 8:55 a.m. ET / PT amin'ny SHOWTIME sy Alatsinainy amin'ny 10 p.m. ET amin'ny EXTREME SHOWTIME.

Ilay mpanazatra veteranina Brian Custer no nampiantrano ny fahitalavitra. Ilay feo fanatanjahan-tena miady marobe Mauro Ranallo dia niantso ny hetsika teo akaikin'ny mpanao famakafikan'ny Hall of Fame Al Bernstein ary tompon-daka eran-tany, Abner Mares. Hall of Famers roa no nanodidina ny ekipa telecast: Steve Farhood, mpahay tantara momba ny ady totohondry, ho scorer tsy ofisialy sady mpanambara fanta-daza eran-tany, Jimmy Lennon Jr. Ny telecast dia azo tamin'ny Espaniôla tamin'ny alàlan'ny Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) miaraka amin'ny tompon-daka eran-tany amin'ny kilasy antonony junior Raúl "El Diamante" Marquez sy Alejandro Luna no miantso ny hetsika. Emmy inefatra ny mpamokatra mpanatanteraka® David Dinkins, mpandresy loka, Jr. I Bob Dunphy no talen'izany, zanaky ny Hall of Famer malaza Don Dunphy.

Ny hetsika dia natolotry ny TGB Promotions sy Sampson Boxing.

Raha mila fanazavana fanampiny fitsidihana www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChisg.com, manaraka ao amin'ny Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing ary @TGBPromotions ao amin'ny Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing sy @TGBPromotionss na lasa mpankafy amin'ny Facebook ao amin'ny www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.