Tag Archives: Joe Smith Jr.

boxing, Ring 8

Joe Smith, Jr. Ring 8’s February Guest Speaker 

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(Joe Smith, Jr. pictures courtesy of Star Boxing)
NEW YORK (February 13, 2017) – World-class light heavyweight boxer Joe “The Irish Bomber” Smith, Jr. will be Ring 8’s guest speaker Thursday night, February 23, at its monthly meeting, starting at 7 p.m. ET, at Plattduetsche Park Restaurant, located at 1132 Hempstead Turnpike in Franklin Square, New York.
The 27-year-old Smith (23-1, 19 KOs) is a Union 66 laborer between fights.  The Long Island power-puncher from Mastic burst upon the International boxing scene last June, stopping former world title challenger Andrzej Fonfara (28-4) in the opening round for the World Boxing Council (WBC) International light heavyweight title.
Joe Smith, Jr. (R) is shown finishing off Bernard Hopkins
Last December, Smith followed up with a sensational eighth-round knockout of living legend Bernard Hopkins (55-8-2), the seven-time, two-division world champion whose retirement fight was ruined by Smith.
“With knockout victories over Fonfara and Hopkins in his last two fights, Joe Smith might be the most exciting fighter since Arturo Gatti,” Ring 8 president Jack Hirschsaid.
“We look forward to him being a featured speaker at our monthly meeting and letting us know what he has planned next in his career.”
Smith was the recipient of Ring 8’s “Knockout of the Year Award” last December at the organization’s 30th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony. Phil andJerry Capobianco, respectively, Smith’s manager and trainer, were also honored as Ring 8’s Manager and Trainer of the Year.
Smith is a light heavyweight contender on the verge of a major fight this year, possibly a world title shot.  He is promoted by New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) inductee Joe DeGuardia (Star Boxing).
ABOUT RING 8:  Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.
RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.
Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August.  All active boxers, amateur and professional, with a current boxing license or book are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.  Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person..
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FONFARA SCHEDULED FOR MARCH RETURN, FEELS CONFIDENT WITH VIRGIL HUNTER IN HIS CORNER

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Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp
(BAY AREA, CA) February 7, 2017 – Light heavyweight contender, Andrzej Fonfara (28-4, 16 KOs) is enjoying his time with new coach, BWAA 2012 trainer of the year, Virgil Hunter.  The two have been working together at for the last few months and Fonfara says he’s learning new training methods with Hunter, that are helping him improve his game.
“Virgil is a great coach and I feel this was the right move to take my career to the next level.” said Andrzej Fonfara, the WBC #8 rated contender. “Right now, Hunter has me doing some crazy drills and I can see how its making me better in the ring.”
Fonfara is scheduled to return to the ring in March against an opponent TBA.  This bout will be his first fight in 2017, a match he’s looking forward to, since losing his WBC International light heavyweight title to Joe Smith Jr.
“Against Smith, I got caught with a good punch.” Fonfara continued. “It can happen to anyone.  I feel I’ve learned a lot since then and I’m confident that’ll I’ll be able to march forward to a world title opportunity.  I’m going to take it one fight at a time.  With Virgil in my corner, I feel I can beat anyone that is put in front of me.  In march, everyone will see an improvement in my fighting style.”

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boxing, Ring 8

Limited Tickets still available for this Sunday’s  30th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event & Awards Ceremony 

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Barry McGuigan, Carl Frampton, Danny Jacobs, Joe Smith, Jr. &
 Shakur Stevenson among 2016 award winners
 NEW YORK (December 6, 2016) – Limited tickets are still available for this Sunday afternoon’s (Dec. 11) 30th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET) at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

Ring 8’s 2016 award winners are listed below:
2016 RING 8 Award Winners
International Fighter Achievement:  Barry McGuigan
International Fighter of the Year:  Carl Frampton
International Promoter of the Year: Cyclone Promotions
NYS Fighter of the Year:  Danny Jacobs
NYS Female Fighter of the Year:  Sonya Lamonakis
Knockout of the Year: Joe Smith, Jr.
Uncrowned Champion: Larry Stanton
Manager of the Year: Phil Capobianco
Trainer of the Year: Jerry Capobianco
Rising Promoter of the Year: Ronson Frank
Official of the Year:  Frank Lombardi
Amateur Official of the Year: Frankie Martinez
Amateur Boxer of the Year:  Christina Cruz
Long & Meritorious Service:  Dr. Barry Jordan
Contender of the Year: Cletus Seldin
Prospect of the Year: Julian Sosa
Sunnyside Garden:  John Clohessy
USA Olympic Boxer of the Year: Shakur Stevenson
Sam Kellerman Media:  Bobby Cassidy, Jr.
David Diamante will once again serve as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.
Tickets, priced at $125.00 per person, are available to purchase by contacting Bob Duffy by phone (516.313.2304) or email DepComish@aol.com. Donations of any denomination are welcome for those unable to attend the festivities.
Tickets include a complete brunch with cocktail hour upon entry, followed by seating at the awards ceremony, dinner and dessert, and top-shelf open bar throughout the afternoon. There will also be a silent auction of boxing memorabilia. This event is expected to sell-out and everybody is urged to purchase tickets as soon as possible to  secure favorable seating.
Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about Ring 8 or its annual Holiday Events and Awards Ceremony.
Russo’s On The Bay is located at 162-45 Crossbay Blvd. in Howard Beach (718.843.5055).
ABOUT RING 8:  Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.
Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August.  All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.  Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Light Heavyweight Contender Joe Smith Jr. Shocks Hometown Favorite Andrzej Fonfara with First Round Stoppage On Premier Boxing Champions on NBC from UIC Pavilion in Chicago

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Rau’shee Warren Wins Bantamweight World Championship with Majority Decision Over 
Juan Carlos Payano in Exciting Rematch
 
Rising Star Erickson Lubin Blasts Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval On His Way to Third Round Stoppage Victory & Maciej Sulecki Stops Hugo Centeno In Final Round To Win Battle of Unbeaten Middleweights
 
Welterweight Prospect Alex Martin Remains Undefeated With Split-Decision Victory Over 
Juan Carlos Abreu In Live PBC on NBCSN Action
 
Click HERE for Photos from Leonard Wilson Jr. & Nabeel Ahmad/
Premier Boxing Champions
 
Highlights Available HERE Via PBC Youtube Page
 
CHICAGO (June 18, 2016) – Hard-hitting light heavyweight contender Joe Smith Jr. (22-1, 18 KOs) delivered a shocking upset with a first round stoppage of crowd favorite Andrzej Fonfara (28-4, 16 KOs) Saturday night in the main event ofPremier Boxing Champions on NBC from UIC Pavilion in Chicago.
It was a short night for the heavily favored Fonfara, who was rocked by a roundhouse right from Smith Jr. that immediately sent the Polish fighter to the canvas. Fonfara stumbled to his feet, but never regained his composure.
Smith Jr. sensed his moment and attacked, connecting with a cross-hook combo that put Fonfara back on the ground. Fonfara was able to get to his feet, but was too shaky to continue, forcing referee Hector Afu to stop the fight at 2:32 into the first round.
The opening bout of the night saw Rau’shee Warren (14-1, 4 KOs) earn a bantamweight world championship as he defeated Juan Carlos Payano (17-1, 8 KOs) in a rematch of their August 2015 world title bout.
The three-time Olympian Warren became the first member of the 2012 U.S. team to earn a world title when he was awarded the majority decision over the two-time Dominican Olympian Payano.
Payano was the aggressor throughout the night, as he threw 882 punches to Warren’s 514. While Payano out-landed Warren 162 to 160, it was the new world champion who threw cleaner punches all night on his way to a 31 percent connect rate to Payano’s 18 percent rate.
The southpaws went toe-to-toe again for much of the night, but it was Warren who had more success catching the champion as he lunged in. Payano picked up the aggressiveness as the fight went on, as he battled through a rib injury suffered in the early rounds.
In round 11, Warren was able to seriously stagger Payano early on and won the round on all three judges’ scorecards. In round 12 he had more success early in the round as he opened up a cut under Payano’s right eye. In the end, the judges scored the bout 115-113 for Warren twice and 114-114.
Further televised action on NBC featured rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubin (15-0, 11 KOs) earn a third-round stoppage of Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval (38-4, 34 KOs) in their super welterweight contest.
The Orlando-born fighter looked to cement his status as a contender as he picked apart Sandoval over most of the first three rounds before delivering a fantastic flurry that ended the fight. It was a combination of hooks and a strong straight right hand that staggered Sandoval.
Referee Danny Nelson quickly jumped in and called a halt to the bout at 2:36 into the third round. The punch stats told a similar tale as Lubin connected on 80 of his 161 punches thrown while Sandoval only landed 43 of 203 punches.
In the final televised bout on NBC, Polish middleweight Maciej Sulecki (23-0, 8 KOs) defeated Hugo Centeno Jr. (24-1, 12 KOs) by 10th round stoppage in their battle of previously unbeaten fighters.
Sulecki controlled much of the action throughout the fight, using a strong jab that eventually opened up a cut over Centeno’s right eye in the ninth round. Sulecki was the better conditioned fighter, as he consistently beat Centeno to the punch, following up on his jab with strong power punches. His biggest advantage came in the power punching department as he landed 127 to Centeno’s 47.
In the final round, Sulecki connected with a powerful straight right hand that dropped Centeno to the canvas. While Centeno was able to get to his feet, he was deemed unable to continue by referee Danny Nelson, who halted the bout 1:06 into the final round.
In live action on NBCSN, Chicago prospect Alex Martin (13-0, 5 KOs) remained undefeated with a split decision victory over Juan Carlos Abreu (19-3-1, 18 KOs) in their eight-round welterweight bout. Martin controlled much of the action with his jab and clean punching, but it was Abreu who scored a late knockdown in the final round with a straight right hand.
Abreu’s aggressive style made it a competitive fight as one judge scored it 76-75 for Abreu, but he was overruled by scores of 78-74 and 77-74 for Martin.
Here is what the fighters had to Saturday night:
JOE SMITH JR.
“There’s no feeling like this. I’m happy to take this victory back home to New York to all my fans.
“I’ll talk to my promoter but I’m hoping for another big fight to get myself to a world title.
“Now everybody knows who I am. This is the best thing that could have happened.
“Once I started hitting him and pushing him back he fell away and left himself open for the right hand.
“I thought this would be more of a fight, but I took him out early and it feels great.
“He was punching and I knew he leaves himself open. I was just looking for the punch and it landed.”
ANDRZEJ FONFARA
“He is a heavy puncher. He hit me with a great punch. It happens.
“I threw some good punches, but I got too comfortable. I didn’t see the punch coming. That made it a great punch.
“I’m disappointed because I thought I would win the fight but it is boxing. I will rest and get back in the ring. I’ll get back to work.”

RAU’SHEE WARREN
“This feels great. It’s unbelievable. Payano came to put on a great fight but I came out victorious. It was a good fight. If he wants the rematch, we can do it again.
“I was comfortable that I had won the decision. He came to fight and he stayed active. My corner just told me I had to answer back.
“We wanted to make him miss and make him pay. I definitely made him miss a lot. He was just staying busy. I bobbed and weaved. I pressed him enough to where I could take over. Barry Hunter told me I had to take the last round and I got him cut.
“My corner just kept telling me to work. I knew I was in control but I just had to step on the pedal at the right time.
“I want to take it to another level. A third fight could be really big. I want Warren-Payano 3 in Cincinnati. If not I’ll go after all the other champions.”
JUAN CARLOS PAYANO
“I wasn’t able to completely follow my game plan. At moments I was able to do what we trained for, but not enough. I hurt my rib early in the first two rounds and it made it difficult to grab and breathe. I take nothing away from him.
“I was courteous enough to offer the rematch right away and I hope that I get reciprocated the same way.
“Rau’shee was pretty much the same as last time. I fought his pace and I didn’t follow my plan. I wasn’t able to do what I wanted to do and he was able to prevail. I think I gave the fight away and Rau’shee won the fight.”
ERICKSON LUBIN
“I felt great. He’s a veteran so I wanted to take my time and get him out of there by chipping away. I saw that he was hurt with a hook. I saw that it cut him and I wanted to rush him. A flurry of punches and the ref stopped it.
“I’m looking at going higher in the rankings. My team knows I’ll fight everybody. They have to stop me from fighting people cause I’ll say yes to anyone. I just want a title and I’ll do anything to get there.
“I’m still working. I feel great right now. I’m excited to get back in the gym. I didn’t hurt anything. I just want to keep going from here.
“I will fight anybody. I’m not a ‘turkey,’ I’m a ‘pilgrim.’ Everybody is on my radar.”
DANIEL SANDOVAL
“He threw a good combination and I stopped throwing punches, so the referee did what he had to do.
“The referee had the best vantage point and I agree with his decision. Lubin was the better fighter tonight.”
MACIEJ SULECKI
“It was a milestone fight for me. This could give me a chance to fight for the middleweight world title.
“I’ve always thought of myself as a technical fighter. I just needed a small adjustment to move the technique to power. That is exactly what happened when I moved to America.
“This is unbelievable. It’s hard to put into words. Fighting on the biggest stage in American television is amazing.
“I knew from the beginning that I was going to dominate. I needed a couple of rounds to get my timing. Once I got my timing, I knew that I was physically and mentally better than this guy.
“I want to fight Daniel Jacobs. I think that would be a great fight.”
HUGO CENTENO JR.
“I had trouble making weight. I don’t want to make excuses. He did what he had to do, but I felt like I couldn’t do what I wanted to do.
“I felt sluggish by the fourth round. The fatigue set in hard. I wanted to finish the fight. I work hard for it. It is what it is, but I can’t wait to get back in the ring again.”
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo, www.Facebook.com/StarBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC and NBCSN was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Andrzej Fonfara, Joe Smith Jr., Juan Carlos Payano, Rau’shee Warren, Erickson Lubin, Daniel Sandoval, Hugo Centeno  & Maciej Sulecki Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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PBC on NBC Tripleheader Saturday, June 18 From 
UIC Pavilion in Chicago
8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. ET
 
Click HERE For Photos From 
Nabeel Ahmad/Premier Boxing Champions
 
CHICAGO (June 15, 2016) – Fight week kicked-off in Chicago on Wednesday forPremier Boxing Champions on NBC taking place this Saturday, June 18 at the UIC Pavilion headlined by light heavyweight bruiser Andrzej Fonfara battling hard-hitting New Yorker Joe Smith Jr.
Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and features a bantamweight world championship rematch between Juan Carlos Payano and Rau’shee Warren plus rising star Erickson Lubin battling Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval. At 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT, PBC coverage switches to NBCSN and will feature a battle of unbeaten middleweights as Hugo Centeno Jr. takes on Poland’s Maciej Sulecki.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing, are priced at $201, $101, $61 and $41, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available atwww.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
Wednesday’s media workout took place at Oakley Fight Club in Chicago as the fighters showed off their skills for the media heading into fight night.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
ANDRZEJ FONFARA
“I’m in great shape right now. Camp went very well. We had great sparring and conditioning. I’m definitely ready to fight.
“We’ve seen a couple of his fights. He’s a young, tough guy. I know that I must win the fight. I’m prepared and I will be victorious.
“I expect this fight to be a real battle. I’m not going to stop throwing punches. I will control the ring and find my spots. I definitely want to give my fans the knockout.
“Fighting in Chicago is a great motivation for me because I have such outstanding support here. I always want to entertain my fans so they keep coming back to watch me perform.
“I was the underdog my whole career. Now in this position, it’s even better. I’m motivated by being in this position. I know my opponent feels overlooked and that will add to his motivation, but I’m ready.”
JOE SMITH JR.
“We’ve done some traveling in camp to get excellent sparring and overall it’s just been a great camp. I’m excited to be here and ready to get in the ring. I’m happy to have this opportunity because I worked so hard for it. I’m looking to put on a show.
“This is a big chance and if I win I can open up a lot of doors. I just need to do what I do best and hopefully I’ll be in a world title fight next.
“I love representing Long Island and New York. I want to bring a title back home.
“I’m going to give it my all and at the end of the night I should come out on top.”
JUAN CARLOS PAYANO
“People can expect a great fight with the same result as the first matchup. I will come out the victor.
“As far as any controversy from the first fight, it was a close fight. I could have made it easier but nevertheless it was what it was.
“At the end of the day, I am the world champion and I took the fight to the challenger. That alone warrants a win. Warren connected at a high percentage but mostly with small body shots that didn’t affect me.
“Warren is the second best fighter in the division and I have no bad feelings towards him. I respect him as an accomplished amateur, but this is not the amateurs. This is a 12-round battle and the same result will come on Saturday night.
“I’ve prepared in the same fashion that I always do. I train all out and I give it my all in the ring.
“I understand my mistakes from the first fight and I know they’re corrected coming in. I’m sure Rau’shee has made his own adjustments. No matter how many times we fight, it will be this same kind of exciting battle.
“I’m going to prevail as the world champion that I am. I will show that there really was no controversy. I’m going to be decisive and make sure that the judges will have no option but to give me each round.
“I’ve been on the big stage before so there is no extra pressure on me. I believe I’m the underdog in this fight but with a win I can show how great I really am.”
RAU’SHEE WARREN
“This camp I’ve been sparring with a lot of bigger guys and guys with similar styles to Payano. This camp overall has been great. There’s been a lot of energy in.
“I’ve been getting ready for this since the first fight. That’s going to be the biggest difference from the last fight.
“I’m expecting Payano to try to prove himself. He’s going to bring his all and put it all on the line, just like I will.
“It’s been such an unbelievable camp working in D.C. with Lamont Peterson and his coach, Barry Hunter, along with my coach, Mike Stafford.
“This fight is going to be different. I know it. I’m coming in there to fight. He might think he has the blueprint, but it’s a different story every time. I don’t know if this fight is going 12.
“This is going to take my name up to another level.  The world can see me fight. People are ready for the rematch and they’re excited to see what we bring to the table.
“I’m going to do what I do. I’ll feel him out, then take control. It’s important to stick to my plan. I’m not thinking about anything else but me and Payano.
“I’m ready to bring something different. If he misses, I’m going to make him pay. He brought the dog out of me last fight and it will be out again. I have a lot to bring to the table.”
ERICKSON LUBIN
“Training camp was great. I had a lot of time to improve my game and I feel like this Saturday I will be more than prepared. I’m planning on putting on a show.
“I always want to be in tough matchups. It’s been tougher every time and I’ve still come out victorious. That won’t change on Saturday. I’m moving up the ladder and I’m ready.
“I’ve always known I would get here because I believe in myself and my team believes in me. I’m chasing that world title.
“I picture myself breaking my opponent down. If he makes a mistake I’ll knock him out early. No matter what, I’m going to dominate the fight and come out victorious.”
DANIEL SANDOVAL
“I’m very happy with training. It’s been a great camp and now I’m just getting ready to weigh-in and get in the ring.
“The kid is a good fighter. He’s young and skilled but I know that I am going to get this victory.
“I’m a Mexican. Mexicans are hungry and we want to win. I have better technique and I’ve done my studying. I’m going to come forward and win the fight.”
HUGO CENTENO JR.
“I’m really excited. I feel strong and ready for fight night. Fortunately, I was able to have a nice long training camp with Eric Brown.
“There’s been a long layoff but now we’re here and ready to keep it going. I’m a gym rat. So I’ve been in the gym for six months. The layoff won’t hurt me, I just love to get in the ring.
“I’m an aggressive boxer, but if I have to mix it up on the inside I will happily do it. I like to fight smart, I’m a lanky fighter and I can fight right handed or southpaw.
“I’m an aggressive boxer, but if I have to mix it up on the inside I will happily do it. I like to fight smart, I’m a lanky fighter and I can fight right handed or southpaw.”
“My opponent is about my size and it should be a really good matchup. We’re both undefeated which should make it fun. Honestly, I don’t think he’s fought someone at my caliber yet, but we’ll see on Saturday.”
MACIEJ SULECKI
“We’re going to find out how hard this fight is when I get in the ring. Only then can we see what my opponent really can do.
“No matter what, there can only be one winner and it will be me. I will win decisively.
“I’ve only seen one of his fights. He has a come-forward style and he’s tall. It won’t be about him though. It’s going to be about what I can do in there.
“I’m not a guy who thinks about how each round will go. But I have a general idea of what I want to do and how I want to get the victory.”
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo, www.Facebook.com/StarBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

JUAN CARLOS PAYANO “I’ll be ready for war. Warren is in trouble”

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Photos By Team Pro Box Management
MIAMI, FL (June 15, 2016) – In an anticipated rematch, WBA and IBO bantamweight champion, Juan Carlos Payano (17-0, 8 KOs), is ready to defend his titles against Rau’shee Warren (13-1, 4 KOs) and show the world he’s the king at 118 pounds.  The 12-round co-main event bout scheduled for this Saturday, June 18, 2016, will take place at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, Illinois.  Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC will broadcast the event live starting at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
Payano, who won a split decision against Warren in their first bout, wrapped up his final day of training camp yesterday and vows to come out victorious when the two meet again this Saturday.  After a great camp. Payano is ready for war.
“I had a great training camp and everyone will see the improvements I’ve made since I fought Warren last August.” said Payano. “Once I settle in Chicago, I’ll be well rested and right on weight.”
“I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on my strengths and weaknesses.  I’ve put in a lot of work during this training camp, to better myself, and I feel I’m at the top of my game right now.  I’m going to leave everything in the ring on Saturday night.  I have the blueprint to beat Warren.  I’ll be ready for war.  There is no doubt in my mind that my hands will be raised in victory once again. Warren is in trouble”
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Get To Know Rising Star Erickson Lubin;  Undefeated Super Welterweight Takes On Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval Saturday, June 18 In Primetime On Premier Boxing Champions on NBC from UIC Pavilion in Chicago

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Click HERE For Training Camp Photos From Dave Nadkarni/Premier Boxing Champions & Team Pro Box Management
 
CHICAGO (June 14, 2016) – Undefeated rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubin is set for his primetime debut on Premier Boxing Champions on NBC Saturday, June 18 as he faces Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.
PBC on NBC is headlined by Polish star Andrzej Fonfara against hard-hitting New Yorker Joe Smith Jr. Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and features the bantamweight world title rematch between Juan Carlos Payano and Rau’Shee Warren.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing, are priced at $201, $101, $61 and $41, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available atwww.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
The 20-year-old from Orlando picked up five victories in 2015 and kicked off 2016 with his first headlining appearance as he dominated Jose De Jesus Macias on Bounce TV in January. Outside of the ring, the heavy-handed fighter listens to Drake, watches Scarface and idolizes Muhammad Ali.
Here are some more facts and quotes from the undefeated fighter:
On his family’s involvement in his career:
 
“My family didn’t really want me boxing at a young age. They wanted me to be into other sports. But I loved it so eventually they had no choice. They’re very supportive now and my dad tries to make it to every fight.
“My family is filled with athletes. I have four sisters and two brothers. One of my sisters is a professional dancer and my older brother played football at a high level. Another older brother boxed and got me into the sport when I was about six.”
On his interests outside of the ring:
 
“I think I would have kept pursuing my basketball career if I hadn’t gotten into boxing. I played small forward in high school. My game was kind of like James Harden. I liked to score and I was tough to stop.
“I’ve always been really into music. My brother is a music producer so sometimes I’ll get on the mic and spit something. It’s just for fun but I like doing it.”
What motivates you and what kind of mentality do you have in the ring?
“I usually don’t get too motivated by specific opponents. I just want to take them out. On fight night, I’m going to be there ready to go.
“I try to emulate the mentality of Kobe Bryant. He’s a killer. He has the strongest mentality in sports. I just want to take my opponent out.
“Other fighters definitely motivate me. I idolized Muhammad Ali and he’s always meant a lot to me. I looked up to fighters like Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson and Meldrick Taylor. There are a lot of guys out there now motivating me. Daniel Jacobs is a fighter that I look up to and Errol Spence is a guy that can really fight. Seeing guys perform on a high level makes me want to get to that level as well.”
Quick Facts
 
Favorite Music: “Rap and Hip-hop. I listen to a lot of Drake.”
Favorite Movie: “Scarface.”
Favorite Television Show: “PBC, because it’s on all the networks.”
Favorite Healthy Food: “Grilled chicken and fish. I love tilapia. I go to Whole Foods during camp to maintain my diet.”
Favorite Junk Food: “I like every kind of seafood. Lobster, shrimp, scallops, oysters and clams, I love it all. It’s nice to live in Florida.”
Celebrity Crush: “Angelina Jolie. She’s beautiful and a great character. I loved the Tomb Raider movies.”
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo, wwwFacebook.com/StarBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated Contender Hugo Centeno Jr. Battles Unbeaten Polish Contender Maciej Sulecki in Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN Action On Saturday, June 18 From UIC Pavilion in Chicago at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT Following PBC on NBC Tripleheader

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Plus! Top Prospects Alex Martin, Jose Quezada & Ramiro Carrillo.
Featured On Stacked Undercard
 
CHICAGO (June 10, 2016) – Unbeaten contenders Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr.(24-0, 12 KOs) and Maciej Sulecki (22-0, 8 KOs) will meet in a 10-round middleweight bout that highlights Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN action on Saturday, June 18 from UIC Pavilion in Chicago.
The June 18 event features a primetime Premier Boxing Champions on NBCtripleheader that is headlined by Polish star Andrzej Fonfara against hard-hitting New Yorker Joe Smith Jr. Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and features the bantamweight world title rematch between Juan Carlos Payano and Rau’Shee Warren plus undefeated rising star Erickson Lubin against Mexico’s Daniel Sandoval.
PBC action will switch over to NBCSN at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT. Additional fights airing on NBCSN will depend on which fights fit into the primetime broadcast.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing, are priced at $201, $101, $61 and $41, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
Undercard action features a bevy of Chicago prospects as unbeaten welterweight Alex Martin (12-0, 5 KOs) takes on Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu (19-2-1, 18 KOs) in an eight-round bout, Jose Quezada (10-0, 6 KOs) competes in a six-round super lightweight bout against Hawaii’s Cameron Krael (8-10-2, 1 KO) and Ramiro Carrillo(10-0, 7 KOs) enters the ring in an eight-round super lightweight bout.
Rounding out the night of fights are two more Chicago prospects as lightweight Josh Hernandez (2-0, 2 KOs) competes in a four-round showdown against Puerto Rico’s Eric Gotay (3-3, 1 KO) while Chicago’s Jessica McCaskill (1-0, 1 KO) faces Katonya Fisher in a four round lightweight bout.
Oxnard, California’s Centeno had long been one of boxing’s top prospects with victories over Ayi Bruce, Keandre Leatherwood, Angel Osuna and Gerardo Ibarra. In December 2014 he faced his stiffest test to date against James De La Rosa and passed with flying colors, scoring a spectacular fifth-round knockout. The 25-year-old has followed that up with victories over Lukasz Maciec and Josue Ovando heading into this June 18 showdown.
Fighting in the U.S. for the fourth straight time, the 27-year-old Sulecki most recently stopped Derrick Findley in the seventh round in January. Before coming to the U.S., Sulecki picked up impressive victories over previously unbeaten Robert Swierzbinski, former world title challenger Grzegorz Proksa and Lukasz Wawrzyczek. The fighter out of Warsaw, Poland was a three-time Polish Junior tournament champion and accumulated a 110-30 amateur record.
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo, wwwFacebook.com/StarBoxing andwww.Facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Juan Carlos Payano & Rau’shee Warren Talk Bantamweight World Title Rematch & First Fight Ahead of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC Saturday, June 18 from UIC Pavilion in Chicago

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“I ran him ragged from post to post…I plan on winning even more convincingly this time.” – Payano
 
“I clearly won the fight. I felt cheated…I’m way smarter now and
a knockout is going to come.” – Warren
 
Click HERE to Watch Their First Fight
 
Click HERE For Photos From Their First Fight
From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
 
CHICAGO (June 2, 2016) – Rau’shee Warren is ready. The three-time Olympian and top bantamweight challenger from Cincinnati has spent months preparing for his second showdown against world champion Juan Carlos Payano. In August 2015, the two fought ferociously to a controversial split decision, which went in Payano’s favor, allowing the Dominican Republic native to retain his title. Warren was less than pleased with the judges’ decision, and intends to take what he feels is rightfully his when the two rematch in primetime on NBC on June 18.
“I felt like I clearly won the first fight,” said Warren. “I thought the two judges that scored the fight for him were going to give it to him no matter what. The fight was in his backyard. It really hurt me when they raised his hand, I felt cheated.”
The first fight between Payano and Warren served as the main event for the first installment of the PBC: The Next Round on Bounce TV series on August 2, 2015. One judge scored the bout 115-109 for Warren while the other two had it 113-11 for Payano, leaving the two men to dispute the true winner of the bout. But for Payano, there was no question that he was the rightful winner that night.
“I ran him ragged from post to post,” said Payano. “It was the champion chasing the challenger. Normally to win the title, it has to be the other way around. If he had got the decision, there would have been no controversy, he’d be a superstar.”
The fight featured solid two-way action throughout but the final scores were effected by a couple of decisions by referee Frank Santore Jr. Payano lost a point in the third round for punches to the back of the head, while Warren was deducted two points in round nine for a foul that was ruled intentional.
For this fight, neither man plans to leave any doubt in the minds of the audience or the judges.
“I watched our first fight about 20 times,” said Warren. “I spent a lot of time looking at my mistakes and things I needed to eliminate. I feel like this fight is going to be really easy for me now. Payano is not getting out of this one. I won’t be finished until he stops. He’s going to try to get away from me, but I’m going to use what I’m doing in the gym to take him out smart. I’m way smarter now and a knockout is going to come.”
“I plan to win even more convincingly this time,” said Payano. “I’m going to use my ring intelligence and not fight on emotion like I did in the first fight. I’m going to fight smart, but my style is my style. I don’t know how to fight any other way, so it will be another great fight. I’m sure he will make adjustments but I know I will win this fight.”
The punch stats told the classic tale of the busier fighter versus the more accurate fighter. Payano threw 709 punches to Warren’s 439. But it was Warren who out landed Payano 173 to 166, while owning the advantage in connect percentage at 39 percent to 23 percent. Warren was even able to score a knockdown of Payano in the 12th round but was unable narrow the scores enough to get the victory.
Now, training camp is in full swing as as both men look to gain an edge and leave the ring with their hand raised on June 18.
“Training has been going great,” said Payano. “It’s been a very long camp. We were supposed to fight a long time ago and it didn’t happen. We’ve been waiting a long time and I’m ready to go. I’m eating gunpowder and the bomb is going off on June 18, so be ready.”
“The first time around it was just me, my brother, personal trainer and my coach out in Colorado,” said Warren. “This time I started training back home in Cincinnati and now I’m in Washington, D.C. sparring with Gervonta Davis to get ready. The way I look at it, my sparring partner is better than Payano.”
The Payano vs. Warren rematch will open up Premier Boxing Champions on NBCcoverage on June 18 at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT that is headlined by light heavyweight bruiser Andrzej Fonfara taking on tough New Yorker Joe “The Irish Bomber” Smith Jr. 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing, are priced at $201, $101, $61 and $41, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available atwww.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromoand www.Facebook.com/NBCSports.Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Exciting Light Heavyweight Star Andrzej Fonfara Takes On Hard-Hitting Joe Smith Jr. In Primetime Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC Saturday, June 18 from UIC Pavilion in Chicago (8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT)

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Plus! Bantamweight World Champion Juan Carlos Payano Battles
Rau’shee Warren in Rematch of 2015 Thriller
&
Rising Star Erickson Lubin Faces Mexican Brawler Daniel Sandoval in Super Welterweight Bout That Rounds Out Action-Packed Tripleheader
 
Tickets on Sale Now!
 
CHICAGO (May 13, 2016) – Power-punching fan favorite Andrzej Fonfara (28-3, 16 KOs) will enter the ring against no nonsense New Yorker Joe “The Irish Bomber” Smith Jr. (21-1, 17 KOs) on Saturday, June 18 in a 10-round primetime battle that headlines Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC from UIC Pavilion in Chicago.
Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and will feature a bantamweight world title rematch that sees current champion Juan Carlos Payano(17-0, 8 KOs) take on three-time U.S. Olympian Rau’shee “Nuke” Warren (13-1, 4 KOs) as they rehash their rivalry that began in August 2015 when Payano won a narrow split-decision to retain his title. Also featured on the telecast is rising star Erickson “The Hammer” Lubin (14-0, 10 KOs) who faces powerful Mexican Daniel Sandoval (37-3, 34 KOs) in a super welterweight contest.
“I think that this fight Smith is a great challenge for me and I do not underestimate him,” said Fonfara. “He is young and hungry and he wants to use this fight and my name to show the world his skills. He’s coming to Chicago for victory and glory. I have to show him that I am stronger, more experienced and most importantly, a smarter fighter. I have to win this fight because it will open the door for me to rematch Adonis Stevenson.”
“I’ve been working very hard and for many years towards an opportunity like this,” said Smith Jr. “I am grateful to Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing for helping to get me here. This fight is going to change my life and no one is going to keep me from winning.”
Payano and Warren first fought in Florida where Payano retained his title via split decision with scores of 113-111 twice for him and 115-109 for Warren. The fight featured consistent action and some controversy. Payano was deducted a point in round three while Warren lost two points in round nine for an intentional foul. At the end of the fight, both men raised their hands believing they had won and now they look to settle the score in Chicago.
“I knew this rematch would be offered and it’s been a waiting game since I beat him the first time,” said Payano. “I feel like I won convincingly, but some people feel otherwise. I’m very excited about fighting him again and this time I’ll beat him even more easily. Fighting on NBC is a great privilege and it’s a great place to showcase my talents. I am coming in humbled by this opportunity.”
“I’ve been waiting for this rematch since the moment we got out of the ring the first time,” said Warren. “I’m happy it’s finally coming up on June 18. Until that day is here, there is nothing else on my mind. I’m real sharp right now. I’m going for the knockout. It didn’t go my way last time, but I’m bringing home the belt this time.
“Every fight is big for me, whether I’m televised or not, because I always give it my all,” said Lubin. “But fighting in primetime on NBC is a big opportunity for me and I know it will bring something out of me. I have to perform. It’s up to me to go out and showcase my talent so I can keep moving up the ladder. Daniel Sandoval is a veteran who can prepare me for a world title shot. I’m more than ready and this fight will put me one step closer.”
“This is a very good fight for me and I’m excited,” said Sandoval. “I know if I come to the U.S. and beat Lubin, my name will be big and there will be another great Mexican fighter on the map. I know Lubin is the top prospect in the U.S. right now and a very fast southpaw. He is all the things you wouldn’t want to go up against, but it’s boxing and I’m Mexican. I’ll fight anybody, anytime, anywhere.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and Star Boxing, are priced at $201, $101, $61 and $41, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available atwww.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).
“Warriors Boxing is excited to bring PBC on NBC to the Windy City,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “Chicago’s favorite son, Andrzej Fonfara, always thrills fans with his non-stop fighting style. Joe Smith Jr. has been destroying his competition in New York and also brings a fan friendly ‘seek-and-destroy’ style to the fight. The main event should be explosive. When you add up-and-coming superstar Erickson Lubin and if Payano vs. Warren II live up to their prior Fight of the Year candidate, it will be a can’t miss night of boxing.”
“I am truly looking forward to this main event,” said Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing. “Smith and Fonfara are both very exciting fighters and I expect a thrilling war. Their styles will have Chicago rocking with enthusiastic Irish fans for Smith and Polish fans for Fonfara. The electric atmosphere will be a treat to everyone watching on NBC and I expect big things from Joe Smith Jr.”
Fonfara returns to the ring after defeating Nathan Cleverly in October at UIC Pavilion in a fight that garnered Fight of the Year consideration and saw a record number of punches landed (936) and thrown (2524) for a light heavyweight fight in CompuBox history. Prior to that, the 28-year-old became the first person to stop Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and lost a decision to world champion Adonis Stevenson in a fight that saw both men hit the canvas. From Warsaw, Poland but training out of Chicago, Fonfara will fight in the Windy City for the 20th time when he enters the ring in primetime on June 18.
Representing Long Island, New York, Smith Jr. will bring his heavy hands to primetime as he looks for his 16th straight victory on June 18. The 26-year-old was a highly decorated amateur who won the 2008 New York Golden Gloves with a victory over Seanie Monaghan. A member of the Local 66 Laborers Union between fights and the oldest of eight siblings, Smith Jr. picked up his most impressive victory of his career so far when he defeated veteran Will Rosinsky in a hotly contested battle in Brooklyn. He followed it up with a second round stoppage of Fabiano Pena in April and is set for his toughest challenge in June.
The two-time Dominican Olympian Payano will defend his title for the second time since winning a technical decision over Anselmo Moreno in September 2014. The accomplished amateur won gold at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean games with victories over McJoe Arroyo and Yoandris Salinas. The unbeaten 32-year-old defeated Jundy Maraon, Jose Silveria and Luis Maldonado on the way to his title shot.
A three-time U.S. Olympian from Cincinnati, Warren is determined to make the most of his second shot at a world title. The 29-year-old turned pro in 2012 and picked up victories over veterans Jose Luis Araiza, Javier Gallo, German Meraz and Jhon Alberto Molina leading up to the first world title shot. Another fighter in veteran trainer Mike Stafford’s stable, Warren was the first member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team to earn a world title shot and will look again to become the first member of that team to capture a world title.
A highly-regarded prospect with an exciting style, the 20-year-old Lubin has burst onto the scene looking to engage and finish opponents early. Fighting out of Orlando, he has already taken down experienced veterans including Orlando Lora, Ayi Bruce, Michael Finney and Norberto Gonzalez. He was sensational in November 2015 when he knocked out Alexis Camacho on NBC and in January he headlined his first card and dominated Jose De Jesus Macias in his first 10-round bout.
A winner of 18 of his last 19 fights, Sandoval enters this fight coming off of stoppage victories over Grady Brewer and Francisco Villanueva. The 25-year-old has won his previous two starts in the U.S. with decision victories over Richard Gutierrez in 2014 and Larry Smith in 2012 and will look to take down the undefeated Lubin on June 18.
follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @Andrzej_Fonfara, @JC_Payano, @RausheeWarren, @EricksonHammerL, @WarriorsBoxProm, @StarBoxing and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo and www.Facebook.com/NBCSports.Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.