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New York State Boxing HOF Class of 2020 Induction Ceremony Postponed until September 20

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NEW YORK (March 19, 2020) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) announced today that its ninth annual induction dinner has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic from April 19th to September 20th at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

Money already collected for tickets and journal ads may be used for the Sept. 20th event or returned in full upon request at point of purchase.

“Because of new city mandates and the uncertainty of the coronavirus,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy announced, “we have postponed our event until September 20.  It would not have been fair to the honorees, their friends and guests, and general public to wait any longer.  I must commend the ownership and management at Russo’s On The Bay for working with us during this crisis to give us a date that will hopefully work for us all.

“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience, advise and insight into making this decision.  With the extra time I’m confident that we can make this award dinner our best ever.”

Other living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger Jorge Ahumada (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens  by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner Dennis “The Magician” Milton (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves winner Lou Savarese (46-7, 38 KOs), of Greenwood Lake; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.   

Posthumous participants being inducted are Brooklyn welterweight Soldier Bartfield (51-29-8, 33 KOs), who fought a reported 55 world champions; Bronx middleweight Steve Belloise (95-13-3, 59 KOs); NYSAC and World lightweight champion (1925) Jimmy Goodrich (85-34-21 (12 KOs), of Buffalo; World heavyweight title challenger Tami Mauriello (82-13-1, 60 KOs), of Bronx; WBA light middleweight World champion (1982-83) and four-consecutive New York Golden Gloves titlist Davey “Sensational” Moore (18-5, 14 KOs), of Bronx; and World lightweight champion Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch (74-5-7, 34 KOs), of New York City by way of Wales.

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Wantagh journalist/producer Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Oneida judge Don Ackerman, Buffalo manager Rick Glaser, Rockaway Beach journalist Jack Hirsch, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director Dr. William Lathan, Orangeburg judge Julie Lederman, Hyde Park referee Ron Lipton, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer Kevin Rooney.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn’s Ring Magazine editor Lester Bromberg, New York City sportswriter Dan Daniel, Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym founder Bobby Gleason, Sunnyside, Queens boxing writer Flash Gordan, Manhattan journalist A.J. Liebling, Long Island City’s NYSBHOF co-founder Tony Mazzarella and New York City manager Dan Morgan.

INFORMATION:

www.NYBoxingHOF.org

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Meet the New York State Boxing HOF Class of 2020

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Sunday, April 19, Induction Dinner

NEW YORK (January 27, 2020) – The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) has officially announced its 28-member Class of 2019. The ninth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 19, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“I am proud that we are continuing to honor New York men and woman in boxing for their dedication to the sport that they’ve served,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said.  “This is our way to thank them all and let each new inductee know that we do remember all that they did and continue to do. The Class of 2020 is strong across the board, boxers and non-participants, continuing the NYSBHOF tradition of honoring our own.”   

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include three-time World light heavyweight title challenger Jorge Ahumada (42-8-2, 22 KOs), of Woodside, Queens  by way of Argentina; (1975-78) WBC super featherweight World Champion Alfredo “El Salsero” Escalera (53-14-3, 31 KOs), of New York City by way of Puerto Rico; WBC super featherweight World title challenger Freddie “The Pitbull” Liberatore (20-4-1, 11 KOs), of Bayside, Queens; WBC middleweight World Champion and four-time New York Golden Gloves winner Dennis “The Magician” Milton (16-5-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx; World heavyweight title challenger and two-time New York Golden Gloves winner Lou Savarese (46-7, 38 KOs), of Greenwood Lake; and WBA super middleweight title World title challenger Merqui “El Corombo” Sosa (34-9-2, 27 KOs), of Brooklyn by way of the Dominican Republic.   

Posthumous participants being inducted are Brooklyn welterweight Soldier Bartfield (51-29-8, 33 KOs), who fought a reported 55 world champions; Bronx middleweight Steve Belloise (95-13-3, 59 KOs); NYSAC and World lightweight champion (1925) Jimmy Goodrich (85-34-21 (12 KOs), of Buffalo; World heavyweight title challenger Tami Mauriello (82-13-1, 60 KOs), of Bronx; WBA light middleweight World champion (1982-83) and four-consecutive New York Golden Gloves titlist Davey “Sensational” Moore (18-5, 14 KOs), of Bronx; and World lightweight champion Freddie “The Welsh Wizard” Welch (74-5-7, 34 KOs), of New York City by way of Wales.

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Oneida judge Don Ackerman, Wantah, Long Island journalist/producer Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Buffalo manager Rick Glaser, Rockaway Beach journalist Jack Hirsch, Bronx boxing broadcaster Max Kellerman, Ardsley ringside physician/NY Medical Director Dr. William Lathan, Orangeburg judge Julie Lederman, Hyde Park referee Ron Lipton, and Staten Island/Catskill trainer Kevin Rooney.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn’s Ring Magazine editor Lester Bromberg, New York City sportswriter Dan Daniel, Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym founder Bobby Gleason, Sunnyside, Queens boxing writer Flash Gordan, Manhattan journalist A.J. Liebling, Long Island City’s NYSBHOF co-founder Tony Mazzarella and New York City manager Dan Morgan.

There are a number of firsts regarding some Class of 2020 inductees:  husband-wife – Dr. William and Melvina (Class of 2018) Lathan; daughter-father – Julie and Harold (Class of 2012) Lederman.  Bobby Jr. and Bobby Cassidy, Sr. (2013) are the fourth son and father inducted into the NYSBHOF, but the first boxer/journalist combination. The others are boxers Floyd and Tracy Patterson, executive administrators Bobby and Murray Goodman, and referees Arthur, Sr. and Arthur Mercante, Jr.

Welch is going into the NHSBHOF as a boxer, but he also managed fellow Class of 2020 inductee Goodrich.

Each attending inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF. 

The 2020 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:  Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Don Majeski,Ron McNair, Jim Monteverde and Neil Terens.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16) and includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as a full course dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the day.  Tickets are available to purchase by contacting NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304 or depcomish@aol.com.  Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available: half-page $100.00,  full page $200.00 front and back inside covers are $400.00 each, and $500.00 for back cover.  Mail checks and ads by the April 6 deadline to Bob Duffy, 1112 Whitewood Landing, Massapequa Park, NY 11762.  Checks should be payable to NY Stare Boxing Hall of Fame, call Duffy to charge on a credit card.

NEW YORK STATE BOXING HALL OF FAME

CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.

CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.

CLASS OF 2014:  Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.

CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

CLASS OF 2016:  Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

CLASS OF 2017:  Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

CLASS OF 2018:  Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

CLASS OF 2019:  Wilfredo Benitez, Dick DiVeronica, Rogelio Tuur, Davey Vasquez, Michael Olajide, Monte Barrett, Jimmy Carter, Al “Bummy” Davis, Marty Servo, Roland LaStarza, Paddy DeMarco, Sid Terris, Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross, Don King, John McKaie, Steve Albert, Arthur Mercante, Jr., Bob Jackson, Dewey Fragetta, Johnny LoBianco, Wayne Kelly, Harry Hill, Jimmy Cannon, and Joe Dwyer.

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Undefeated Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder Stops Challenger Chris Arreola at The End of Eighth Frame of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Primetime Main Event from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama

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Olympic Gold Medalist Felix Diaz Defeats Sammy Vasquez Jr. by Unanimous Decision
 
Undefeated Rising Star Erickson Lubin Wins Unanimous Decision Over Ivan Montero
 
Click HERE For Photos
Credit: Ryan Hafey/Jordan Hardy/Premier Boxing Champions
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 16, 2016) – Undefeated heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (37-0, 36 KOs) finished three-time world title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola (36-5-1, 31 KOs) after the eighth round of the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportesfrom Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama.
In front of a hometown crowd of 11,974, Wilder controlled the fight from bell to bell, dropping Arreola in the fourth round, and dominating the battle tested challenger. Despite a broken right hand and a torn bicep muscle, Wilder managed to persevere and secure the stoppage.
Televised action opened with Olympic Gold medalist Felix Diaz Jr. (18-1, 8 KOs) defeating Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. (21-1, 15 KOs) by unanimous decision (96-93, 95-94, 95-94) in an exhilarating 10-round welterweight showdown.
The second televised bout featured unbeaten rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubin(16-0, 11 KOs) scoring a unanimous decision (80-72, 80-72, 80-72) over Ivan Montero(20-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-round junior middleweight bout.
Here is what the fighters had to say after their bouts:
LOU DIBELLA
“Wilder will be taken to a local hospital tonight, and will be seeing a specialist this week to assess the damage to his right hand and right bicep muscle.”
DEONTAY WILDER
What round did you hurt your hand:
“It was early – the third or the fourth round. It was from an (awkward) punch. I hurt the hand first, and then the bicep.
Was he tougher than you thought:
“He was just as tough as I thought he would be. I know he was scared of the right hand for sure. I think I would have gotten him out of there (in the fourth round) if he didn’t hold the ropes. On that last one he told me in my ear, I had to hold the ropes. I had to hold the ropes.
“I got one of the best jabs in the world, because I have super trainers. I got Mark Breland, who showed me all kinds of ways to throw my jab. I got Russ Ambers who shows me techniques. I have Jay my long-time trainer on everything, and of course I have Cuz Hill who gives me great work on the mitts.
“Look at my hand, this thing hurts.
What does it say about your toughness that you were able to fight for four rounds with a broken right hand and a torn right bicep:
“Man, it let’s me know I’m a force to be reckoned with. If I have one hand or two hands, you can’t deny that I’m the best in the world. I’m going to still give it to you whether I have one hand or two hands. I won’t stop. As a champion it’s my duty to keep going no matter what I’m going through. Pain ain’t nothing to me. I got a high tolerance on pain. When you’re dealing with fights, it’s not over until it’s over. Whoever fights me they have to be ready. They just can’t come in and think they’re going to bully me or think they’re going to out-tough me or think they’re going to out-punch me, because there ain’t no out-bullying, there ain’t no out-toughing, there ain’t no out-punching, because I’m the heavyweight champion of the world. That means a lot to me.
How satisfying was it to put on such a gutty performance before your home State fans:
“It was very satisfying to punish a guy like Chris Arreola. I straight punished him. I didn’t get my knockout like I want, but it was a knockout. I’ll take that on my record. I still advanced to 37-0 with 36 KOs.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“When he started taunting in the eighth round I knew it was all just part of boxing. No big deal.
“The fourth round knockdown was a situation where he just hit me with the perfect shot. Nothing I could do about it.
“(Deontay’s) movement was really tough. He moved perfectly behind his jab. It’s not that it’s even frustrating; it was just I had to catch up to him on runs like that, but it was a fun fight.
“He just kept me on the outside, I couldn’t figure him out — plain and simple. I have to give him all the respect in the world because he was just a much better fighter.
How did he make it out of Round 4?
“Let’s be honest, man. It takes a real fighter to be in the ring with someone like him. He’s a big man. We’re in the heavyweight division, man, this is the hurt business. You have to know how to deal with adversity. I get punched, I’m going to get back up.
“I have to give him credit for using his distance, using his jab and just keeping me at bay.”
SAMMY VASQUEZ
“I knew in my heart I lost that fight. I tried my hardest but there were things I should have done that I didn’t do. We can’t look in the past. He’s a hell of fighter. He’s an Olympic gold medalist for a reason. He had a tough decision loss to Lamont Peterson. To me he was an undefeated Olympic gold medalist.
“I take nothing away from the man. He’s a hell of a fighter. I’m a hell of a fighter. At the end of the day we put on a great show.
“We’ll huddle up and start back at the drawing board. I’ve got to start knocking those names down again.
Ever been in a situation where the scores were added wrong:
“I’ve never been in a situation where I had to wait for them to add up the scores again, because obviously I was undefeated. This is my first loss. Losses you learn from. Losses just mean you have room to grow. We’ll take this and come back strong the next time.
You hurt him in the 10th round:
“I know I had him hurt as soon as I hit him in the head twice. I saw him wobble and grab ahold of me. He was very slippery. As soon as I tried to push him away my hands would slip away. Hey, it was a hell of a fight. I take nothing away from the man.”
FELIX DIAZ
“When I first heard it was a split draw, I felt like I was the winner and I got robbed like in my fight against Lamont Peterson.
“I definitely feel like the scores should have been wider on the cards, but I understand. The first couple of rounds I was feeling him out, but after those first couple I feel like I won every round.
“Since Vasquez is taller than me and has longer reach, my plan of attack was to stay inside and fight him at a close distance.
“I took this fight on only 15 days notice, and before this I was preparing for a right handed fighter, so it was a bit of an adjustment. I only had two weeks to make the changes that I needed to. I’m thankful to my team for getting me ready for this fight.
“Fighting on a FOX and FOX Deportes primetime card and looking as good as I did makes me very happy. I’m ready for anyone at 140 or 147 lbs.”
ERICKSON LUBIN
“I’m definitely not upset with my performance. The referee was letting him get away with a lot of clinching and head butting. All in and all I’m happy with my performance. I’m still undefeated. I’m going to keep stepping up in these fights and upgrading my competition.
Anything you wanted to do that you didn’t get a chance to do:
“Hell, I wanted to knock him out. But the ref wasn’t really calling him for holding or even warning him for holding so that he wouldn’t hold as much and head butt as much. He was tough. I give it to him. He came to fight.
Some guys come in there to survive. That was definitely the type of fighter he was. He was in there to survive. He didn’t want to go home with a knockout loss.
Was this a big step up fight for you:
“Every fight was a step up fight for me. I take every fight seriously. There are always things I can learn and improve on. This was definitely one of those fights.”
IVAN MONTERO
“I was happy to go the distance tonight, and I agree with the decision. He definitely won, but I thought I put on a good fight. He didn’t do that much damage to me.
“I was honored to get this fight and the opportunity to fight on national television. I hope the fans enjoyed my style of fighting. I look forward to getting back in the ring soon.
“Right now, I’m just going to take some time and assess my options, but I’d like the rematch with him some time in the future.”
 # # #
The card was promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with TGB Promotions and Bruno Event Team
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.comwww.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
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Deontay Wilder vs. Chris Arreola PBC on FOX, FOX Deportes & FS1 Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Action Begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on FOX & FOX Deportes Before Moving to FS1 Live from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama
 
Click HERE For Photos From Jordan Hardy/Premier Boxing Champions
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL. (July 14, 2016) – Heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and two-time title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they headline Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes this Saturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama.
In attendance at the press conference and featured in televised action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were undefeated Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. and Olympic gold medalist Felix Diaz, who square off in a 10-round welterweight bout, plus rising starErickson “Hammer” Lubin and Mexico’s Ivan Montero, who meet in a super welterweight attraction.
The televised action will switch over to FS1 and FOX Deportes immediately following the conclusion of the FOX telecast with action headlined by undefeated welterweight Jamal James battling exciting contender Wale Omotoso. Additional action on FS1 and FOX Deportes features former world champion Vic Darchinyan and undefeated heavyweight Gerald Washington in separate bouts.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in
association with TGB Promotions and Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
Fighters spoke to media at the BJCC’s Arena Club inside the same venue that will host a stacked night of fights on Saturday night.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“I’ve wanted to hit somebody since May. I got teased but now it’s time. And I get to do it at home. There’s no better place to do it.
“We’ve had a few guys that we could have chosen, but there were certain guys we didn’t want to give a short notice opportunity. We needed a certain type of fighter for this job.
“We need someone who will fight with their heart and take this opportunity and make the most of it. Does he deserve the title shot? No he doesn’t. He knows it. But is Chris Arreola the perfect guy for this fight? Of course he is.
“Chris is lucky to get a third chance at a title. There’s a lot of prospects who would love to fight him just to get a chance to fight for this belt. We needed a special person for this situation and I blessed Chris Arreola with the opportunity.
“It’s time to fight. He’s ‘The Nightmare’ and I’m a knockout artist. What makes me special is the way I knock people out. Go look at the people I’ve knocked out and see what I’ve given them.
“This is going to be another story for me to write in the history books. I can feel it. It’s going to be a great show. Don’t miss it.
“I appreciated everyone who comes out for me when I’m here fighting at home. I’m really excited about this show. You know the words at the end of the night will be ‘And still! Heavyweight champion of the world.'”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“I’m ready for this fight. I’m more ready than I’ve ever been. I’m hungry. This isn’t a cakewalk. I respect Deontay, that’s why I trained for you. Come fight time, there’s no respect, it’s time to fight.
“One thing no one can question about me is my heart. I’m going to come at him but be smart. My goal is to take home that title and make history.
“I want to thank Deontay for giving me this opportunity. I am a sleeping giant. I’m being underestimated. Place your bets on me and make some money.”
SAMMY VASQUEZ JR.
“Me and Felix Diaz are both coming to bring it. It’s going to be a tough fight for him and myself. People have to watch this fight. To me he’s undefeated and I’m coming in undefeated. We’re putting it all on the line in this fight.
“Felix and I have worked together and we’re friends, but this is business. He knows that I’m going to bring it like I do every fight. It’s a great opportunity to be showcased on this card.
“If you feel that you’re the best in your weight division, then it doesn’t matter who they put in front of you. My opponent doesn’t matter; we’re going to get the job done. I have to fight quality opponents to be able to step up to the next guy.
“Felix Diaz is a great competitor and he’s a very tough fighter. He has a tremendous amount of talent and he never stops coming, just like I do.
“I’m a pressure fighter. I like to show the crowd how I get down. I’m an undefeated fighter and I will remain that way Saturday night. I’m here to take care of business.
“I need wins like this to get fights with Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman and I need to do it decisively.
“If I can get this win I definitely want Danny Garcia. He’s a Philadelphia guy. I’m from Pittsburgh, it’d be a fun matchup. We’re both marketable guys and I think it’d be a huge fight.
“I just want to fight the best. That’s what I’m here for. I’ll fight anybody. I want to get a world title.”
FELIX DIAZ
“I want to thank everyone who is here today. Everything is ready to go. We’ve had a great training camp leading up to this fight.
“I know that Sammy is a very good fighter. We’ve been stablemates before, but this is business. I’m going to do what I have to do to be victorious on Saturday.
“I’m ready to get in the ring and do anything that I can on Saturday to get the victory.”
ERICKSON LUBIN
“This is a great opportunity on a big card. I’m here to showcase my talent and show why I’m one of the best 154-pound fighters in the world.
“This is a stepping stone for me. I know this is a tough Mexican who will be a great opponent. I just took care of business early a few weeks ago in Chicago and I’m looking to do the same thing Saturday. I’m here to steal the show.
“I want to thank my team for helping me in training camp and getting me to this moment. It’s ‘Hammer Time’ on Saturday.”
JAMAL JAMES
“We always stay ready in the gym. It’s always training camp. I’m at a point in my career where I have to be ready at all times. When the call comes, I’m ready.
“We’re working on some things that we wanted to tighten up from the last fight and I can’t wait to show everybody my improvements.
“Wale has been in there with some great competitors. We had to make sure everything is tightened up because he’s a strong guy. He has a good knockout ratio so you have to watch out for power punches.
“A lot of guys I fight are shorter than me. I’m one of the tallest welterweights in the game. A lot of guys have to fight me the same way, so we know what to expect. Our defense is tight and I’m sitting down on my punches more than ever.
“It’s a blessing to be on a card like this. I was very excited when I got the call. Deontay Wilder is a heavyweight champion and it’s a stacked card. It’s a great honor. I’m happy to keep stepping up in competition and in platform.
“I’m a class-act in the ring. I’m trying to bring the master skill back to boxing. But I’m ferocious at the same time. You won’t be mad because I always give you a great show.”
GERALD WASHINGTON
“I’m looking to go out there and take care of my business. We’ve worked hard in training camp and we’re prepared for anything.
“I’m going to use my speed and athleticism. The goal is to execute my game plan. Hopefully I can stay busy, land something big and get him out of there.
“My grandfather is actually from Alabama so I have roots here. It’s very exciting to be on an undercard for Deontay Wilder defending the heavyweight world title. I have to perform and be exciting so that I one day I can be fighting a great champ like Deontay Wilder.
“I’m different than I was before. This is going to be the best me stepping in there Saturday. I’m looking to get him out of there.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.comwww.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
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Deontay Wilder, Chris Arreola, Sammy Vasquez Jr. & Felix Diaz Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Begins Saturday, July 16 at 8 p.m. ET/
5 p.m. PT Live from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama
 
Click HERE for Photos from Jennifer Halger/DiBella Entertainment/
Premier Boxing Champions
(Photos to be added shortly)
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL. (July 13, 2016) – Heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder, two-time heavyweight title challenger Chris Arreola, undefeated welterweight Sammy Vasquez Jr. and Olympic Gold medalist Felix Diaz participated in a media workoutWednesday as they near their respective Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes matchups taking placeSaturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.  
 
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten rising starErickson Lubin battling once beaten brawler Ivan Montero in addition to the Wilder vs. Arreola and Vasquez Jr. vs. Diaz bout. The televised action will switch over to FS1 and FOX Deportes immediately following the conclusion of the FOX telecast.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in
association with TGB Promotions and Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
The fighters worked out at Round 1 Boxing in Vestavia Hills, Alabama as they prepare for the card headlined by the hometown favorite, Wilder, making the fourth defense of his heavyweight title.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“When it comes to Deontay Wilder, people look for the knockouts and I deliver. What separates me from other heavyweights is the fashion in which I knock guys out. I don’t just knock you out, I really put you out.
“Arreola definitely has a style prone to a knockout. He’s a pressure fighter who will come forward all night. That plays to my style. I love pressure fighters who give me a challenge. They keep me moving and thinking. I love the sweet science and the art to it.
“I never look at films of opponents because I want to be surprised and I want to give myself a mental challenge in there. That’s what makes this sport so great.
“Birmingham has showed me love from day one. I don’t just represent my city; I represent the state. Everywhere is my home. Birmingham understands entertainment and excitement and that’s what I’m trying to bring to people here.
“I’m here to defend my title against a very hungry fighter. It’s a life-changing event for the man who holds the belt at the end of the night.
“I never look past anybody. But I can look through them. Before I became a champion, I said I wanted to be an active champion. Just like I was active coming up. This has been my longest time away from the ring, so if all goes well on Saturday, I want to be back in the next few months.
“I have an ability to get out of bed and fight. I can do things that regular fighters can’t do. I don’t do miles of roadwork. I’m blessed with stamina.
“This is my gift to give back to my state. Boxing is growing fast here. Me and Jay Deas have always wanted to do this. It warms my heart that we’re living our dreams.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“Deontay is a very tough opponent so I have to come hard this time. This is my third world title shot and I have to make it count. The first time I was too young, the second time I got caught with a shot, but this time I’ll be ready for anything.
“Fighting a guy like Wilder, I have to be ready for anything. But he has to be ready too. I’m no slouch. I have fire and he’s another person in my way. I’m here to get it.
“There’s no challenge to get ready for a fight. I’m a boxer. This is what I do and this is what I love to do. Boxing is the most gentlemanly sport there is. You beat each other up then you shake hands like nothing happened. I’ve been grinding every day in the gym for this.
“This is a big night for both of us. It’s a great opportunity to be on primetime television. People are going to be watching for free at sports bars and it puts us out there. They’re going to watch two big men on display going for it all.
“I took it one day at a time in camp. I had to grind and get better every single day. I fear no man. I respect the man, but I don’t fear him. Everybody knows that I fight coming forward. I have to be smart and I have to move in angles.
“I want to leave a legacy behind. When they talk about Chris Arreola, they’re going to say ‘he did it.’ I took the long road but here we are now.
“I expect him to have a lot of fans and he’s very deserving of that. He’s made things happen in this state and this state is lucky to have a fighter like him. But no one can get in there with him. The fans can’t fight for him. I love the fans, but they’re just there to watch. It’s just me and Wilder in there Saturday.
“Beating Bermane Stiverne and defending the title how he has, I definitely respect Deontay. The humility that Deontay has shown has been impressive. He was more brash coming up the rankings and flamboyant. Now he’s come into his own and he understands who he is.
“The biggest difference between now and earlier in my career is that I’m comfortable with myself. My main motivation is being a boxer. I’m a boxer first. It’s not about who has the better six-pack.
“Weaknesses are something that I have to bring out of Deontay. Someone different shows up every fight. We have a plan but we’ll have to expose him while I’m in the ring. You can see videos all day, but it might not be the same guy in the ring.”
SAMMY VASQUEZ JR.
“I think this fight goes eight rounds at the most. It’s tough to predict and he’s a shifty guy but I’m confident. I’m going to key in on the body and try to wear him out. I’ll be smart about it, because I have to make a statement in this fight.
“My reach and my height will give me an advantage but he’s a slick fighter. All of these things can be advantages, but they can also work against you. I like to box and keep my opponent at range. I can’t let him smother me. We’re very prepared for his best shots.
“I think it’s going to be a great fight. He has a great amateur pedigree but I think I’ve made more impact as a pro. We’re equals and it’ll make for an explosive fight.
“Diaz is a slick southpaw, just like Luis Collazo. He’s had a couple decent names on his resume. I think Lamont Peterson fell into Diaz’s trap a little bit, which made that a close fight. He’s coming up to my weight, but he brings it and he’s dangerous.
“It feels good to be here. It’s been a long training camp leading up to an unbelievable card like this. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be here. My coach (Charles Leverette) is from Alabama and he represents the state hard, so I’ve been on the ‘Roll Tide’ bandwagon.
“When I was young I remember watching great heavyweight title fights and now to be on the undercard of one is incredible. There are kids out there looking at me and Deontay in the same way. It’s amazing. It’s a blessing that really boosts my career and lets people get to know me better.”
FELIX DIAZ
“Sammy is a very good opponent of course. He’s undefeated right now, but he won’t be after Saturday.
“Moving up to 147 is going to be great for me and allow me to be at my very best. I think I can do big things in this division and Saturday night will be the start.
“What you train for and what happens in the ring are two different things. I’m prepared for anything that could happen in the ring.
“I have a great team and training camp has gone very well. I’ve been ready to fight for a long time and I can’t wait to get in the ring.
“Everyone should come out, because it’s going to be a great fight. I’m very confident in my ability to pull off this victory.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.comwww.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated Rising Star Erickson Lubin Takes On Mexico’s Ivan Montero in Televised Bout on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama

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PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and Moves to FS1 & FOX Deportes at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
 
FS1 Bouts to Feature Unbeaten Jamal James Against Welterweight Contender Wale Omotoso Plus Exciting Former Champion Vic Darchinyan Taking On Mexico’s Enrique Quevedo & Undefeated Heavyweight
Gerald Washington in Action
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 11, 2016) – Unbeaten rising star Erickson “Hammer” Lubin (15-0, 11 KOs) returns to the ring to battle once-beaten brawler Ivan Montero (20-1, 8 KOs) in a super welterweight bout featured on the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportes telecast onSaturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama.
FOX televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his belt against two-time title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola plus undefeated welterweight contender Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. battles Olympic gold medalist Felix Diaz. The televised action will switch over to FS1 and FOX Deportes immediately following the conclusion of the FOX telecast.
Bouts to be featured on FS1 & FOX Deportes include a 10-round matchup between unbeaten welterweightJamal James (19-0, 9 KOs) and exciting contender Wale Omotoso (26-2, 21 KOs), former world championVic Darchinyan (42-8-1, 31 KOs) in a 10-round super bantamweight bout against Mexico’s Enrique Quevedo (16-7-1, 10 KOs) and undefeated heavyweight Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington (17-0-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-round affair.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in
association with TGB Promotions and Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
A highly regarded prospect with an exciting style, the 20-year-old Lubin burst onto the scene looking to finish opponents early as he cements his status as an elite contender. 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 and in January he headlined his first card and dominated Jose De Jesus Macias in his first 10-round bout. He kept the hot streak going in June when stopped veteran Daniel Sandoval in the third round.
A professional since 2011, Montero was unbeaten in his first 19 pro fights including victories in 2015 over Michel Rosales and Julio Cesar Avalos. Fighting out of Yucatan, Mexico, he began his 2016 campaign by defeating Roberto Valdez in April. Now he looks to make a mark in his U.S. debut on July 16.
A tall welterweight at 6-foot-2, James is undefeated as a pro and beat tough contender Javier Molina in an FS1 and FOX Deportes main event in January. The 27-year-old out of Minneapolis had a big 2015 that began with victories over Michael Balasi and Daniel Sostre and culminated with a hard fought decision over once-beaten Juan Carlos Abreu in September. He will look to keep that momentum going when he faces his most dangerous opponent to date on July 16.
Born in Nigeria, but fighting out of Oxnard, Omotoso earned a unanimous decision over Gilberto Sanchez Leon in his last bout. He was unbeaten in his first 18 pro bouts while fighting out of Australia. The 31-year-old won his first five bouts stateside and will look for back-to-back victories when he battles James in Birmingham.
The fighter from Armenia who now fights out of Glendale, California, Darchinyan is coming off of stoppage victories over Cris Paulino and Prayoot Yaijam. Having fought against top contenders and former champions such as Abner Mares, Jesus Cuellar, Nonito Donaire and Nicholas Walters, Darchinyan looks to work his way back into world title contention after picking up titles in multiple weight classes. He takes on Quevedo out of Los Algodones, Mexico who most recently stopped previously unbeaten Yoandris Salinas in the fifth-round of their 2014 bout.
A two-way player (tight end and defensive end) at the University of Southern California, Washington spent time with the Seattle Seahawks and Buffalo Bills practice squads on his unconventional path that led him to boxing. The 34-year-old also worked in the Navy as a helicopter mechanic before going to USC and did not get his start in professional boxing until 2012. Fighting out of Vallejo, California, he is yet to lose in his latest endeavor and most recently he defeated former title challenger Eddie Chambers in April.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.com www.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.comfollow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsportsand www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Sammy Vasquez Jr. & Felix Diaz Training Camp Quotes & Photos

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Welterweight Contenders Discuss Their PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Showdown Saturday, July 16 in Birmingham, Alabama
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Greene & Team Diaz/
Premier Boxing Champions
BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 7, 2016) – Undefeated contender Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. and Olympic gold medalist Felix Diaz are deep into training camp for their pivotal welterweight showdown on Saturday, July 16 as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes live from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.
PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his belt against two-time title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in
association with TGB Promotions and Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visitwww.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
Vasquez and Diaz both have world title aspirations but will have to navigate difficult southpaw opponents in the hopes of reaching the top levels of the welterweight division. Here is what both fighters had to say about each other, training camp, the 147-pound division and more:
SAMMY VASQUEZ JR.
On his opponent change from Luis Collazo to Felix Diaz …
“It’s unfortunate that Collazo got hurt, but Diaz is a very good fighter and I know he’s going to bring it. I’ve been sparring with nothing but lefties, and since both Diaz and Collazo are southpaws, it’s business as usual.  Diaz is coming off a close majority decision loss…his first defeat, so I know he’s hungry to get back in that win column. This is a dangerous fight and I’m not taking it lightly. Like always, I’m willing and ready to fight anyone they put in front of me.”
On his recent training camp at the Triple Threat Boxing Gym in Colorado Springs…
“It’s been a grueling camp with a lot of hard work being put out. Sparring has been fantastic and I’m feeling really sharp right now. My weight is good and I’m feeling strong. We have a few more days left and then it’s on to fight week.”
On fighting on FOX with a global audience expected to be tuning in…
“This is what it’s all about, fighting on the big stage with millions of fans looking to see a great fight. FOX is an incredible network to be showcased on and I want to let the world know I’m here to take over the welterweight division. The fans can expect to see a lot of power punches.  Hopefully I can score the knockout.”
On his relationship with his team members…
“I have an unbelievable team behind me.  First off my dad Sammy Sr. is there watching my every move, so I’m very comfortable with him by my side.  Charles Leverette is the head coach, with Ryan Rimsek working the mitts.  Jason Barber is my strength and conditioning coach.  Everyone is doing a great job.  We have a great game plan that we feel we can execute against Diaz.  I’m very happy with my team.”
On when he thinks he’ll be ready to challenge for a world title…
“I feel I’m ready now.  I’m ranked in the top ten in three of the major sanctioning organizations, so I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.  I know a victory against Diaz will get me closer to a title shot.   I have to keep winning to fulfil the goal I set for myself when I first started boxing, and that’s to become a world champion.”
On the current landscape of the welterweight division….
“The division is loaded with great fighters.  With the exception of Jesse Vargas, all the champions are undefeated.  The road to get to the top is very tough because everyone in the top ten is an exceptional fighter.  I think it’s the toughest division in boxing.”
FELIX DIAZ
On fighting Sammy Vasquez on short notice…
“I stay ready in the gym.  I had a fight scheduled with Miguel Vasquez that fell through so now it’s on to another Vasquez.  I had to switch to southpaw sparring but that is nothing new to me.  I fought a lot of southpaws on short notice in the amateurs.  I’m grateful for this opportunity and I’m going to make the best of it.”
 
On his current training camp …
“I’m having a great camp.  Everything is coming together for me.  My punches are accurate and my timing is better than ever.  I’m looking very good in sparring and I know I’ll be at my best on fight night.”
On the opportunity to get into world title contention…
“This is a big fight for me.  Sammy Vasquez is a highly rated fighter.  A win against him will put me right up there with all the other contenders.  I live for these occasions.”
On what he thinks of Sammy Vasquez as a fighter…
“He’s a very smart fighter with good power.  Although he does a lot of things right in the ring, I see some flaws in his style that I know I can expose.  I believe my style will give him a lot of trouble.  I know he wants to keep his undefeated record intact, but my hunger to start another winning streak is greater.”
On bouncing back from his first defeat in his last bout…
“In my last bout I suffered my first loss against Lamont Peterson, a majority decision.  It was a very close fight and I really felt I came out on top.  When you’re undefeated and loss for the first time, you want nothing more than to get back in the ring and prove to everyone that you belong with the elite fighters in the division. I’ve been training in the gym like an animal, waiting for an opportunity like this to come my way.  Now that it’s here, I’m going to take full advantage of the situation.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.comwww.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Deontay Wilder & Chris Arreola Enlist VADA Program Leading Up to Heavyweight World Title Showdown Saturday, July 16

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PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT From
Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL. (June 30, 2016) – Heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and two-time title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola have both enrolled with the world-renowned Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (“VADA”) to conduct the anti-doping program leading up to their Saturday, July 16 showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
“Despite the short lead time to Wilder vs. Arreola, I am happy to report that VADA is in place as the anti-doping agency in accordance with the WBC Clean Boxing Program,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “VADA is a preeminent and reliable service and its relationship with the WBC evidences a commitment to a cleaner sport.”
 
This marks the second straight training camp in which Wilder has enrolled with VADA.  VADA testing, in accordance with the WBC Clean Boxing Program, was in place for Wilder’s scheduled May 21 defense versus Alexander Povetkin, which was canceled following Povetkin’s positive test for Meldonium.  In addition, Wilder has submitted paperwork to VADA and the WBC to participate in year-round anti-doping testing that is expected to commence later this summer.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with TGB Promotions and Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.comwww.dbe1.com,www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Deontay Wilder vs. Chris Arreola Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos 

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(Photo Credit: Chris Farina/TGB Promotions)
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions & Chris Farina/TGB Promotions
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL (June 21, 2016) – Heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face-to-face for the first time Tuesday at a Los Angeles press conference for their Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX & FOX Deportes showdownSaturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated welterweight contender Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. taking on former world champion Luis Collazo. Two more hours of boxing on FS1 and FOX Deportes will immediately follow at 10 p.m. ET after the Wilder vs. Arreola fight on FOX. Further details will be announced shortly.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions in association with Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
The fighters were together at the Conga Room at L.A. Live after Wilder had hosted a press conference in Birmingham the week before, that Arreola joined via skype.
Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“This is going to be an exciting fight for everyone. It’s two dangerous heavyweights. Two guys who fight with their hearts. It’s going to be an action-packed fight from beginning to end.
“People said Arreola doesn’t deserve the shot, but who are they to say things about a man who every time he gets in the ring, fights with his heart.
“I feel like this is a special occasion. It’s a short notice fight. A lot of guys said they would take it, but used the short notice as an excuse. It takes a lot to put together a fight. But when you can get someone who can make the best of this and put on a great show, it’s a job well done.
“There’s only one name who can make this be what it is. Every time he steps in the ring, he comes to fight. I think we chose the right person.
“This is going to be a great fight for boxing fans. I chose to go back home because of all the travel I did preparing for the Povetkin fight. I’m excited to be in my backyard and have the great support behind me. I won’t crack under the pressure.
“The fans will get their money’s worth. It’s two tough and determined fighters who are trying to knock each other’s head off.
“This was my longest layoff. I’ve wanted to be an active champion since I won the belt. When one door closes, another one opens.
“It’s up to Chris to take advantage of this opportunity. He has his own history that he can make and it will mean a lot to him.
“My mentality is to go all out. Everything I say, I really believe. I don’t need anyone to believe in me, because I believe in myself.
“I have a guy in front of me who’s trying to stop me from getting to the next level. I promise this is going to be an outstanding fight.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“I’m grateful for this opportunity. A lot of people say that I don’t deserve this title fight. A lot of people said Deontay didn’t deserve his title shot. I said that. But when he got it, he made the most out of it. He beat the guy who beat me.
“He’s defended his title and done everything you’re supposed to do as a champion. I respect him a lot. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
“I’m going to his backyard. I’m fine with people not recognizing me out there. He’s going to be dealing with ticket requests and I’m just going to be focused on beating Deontay Wilder.
“I’m not fighting the fans, at the end of the day it’s me and Deontay Wilder in that ring. That’s what I know about this sport, there’s a lot of talk, but at the end of the day, it’s mano a mano.
“I’m blessed to have this opportunity and I’m going to make the most of it.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.com www.dbe1.com, www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated Rising Star Sammy Vasquez Jr. Takes On Former World Champion Luis Collazo in Co-Main Event of  Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT)

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BIRMINGHAM, AL (June 21, 2016) – Undefeated welterweight contender Sammy “The Sergeant” Vasquez Jr. (21-0, 15 KOs) is set to battle former world champion Luis Collazo (36-7, 19 KOs) in the 10-round co-main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes in primetime on Saturday, July 16 from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with two more hours of boxing on FS1 and FOX Deportes to follow immediately at 10 p.m. ET. Further details will be announced shortly.
“This is a great opportunity for me and I’m looking forward to showcasing my talent and skills,” said Vasquez Jr. “Luis Collazo is one of the toughest guys I’ve fought so far and he’s definitely going to test me. My job is to go in there, handle my business and beat him worse than anyone else has. I think our styles will combine for a great battle and I’m excited to give the people another great fight.”
“I’m totally stoked about this fight against Sammy Vasquez” said Collazo. “He is a talented fighter and I’m excited to test his abilities and the will that he has to keep that zero. This will be a good one.”
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and TGB Promotions in association with Bruno Event Team, start at only $20 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.ticketmaster.com.
Vasquez has fought professionally since 2012, after serving two tours of duty in Iraq as a member of the National Guard. He made it to the semifinals of the 2012 U.S. Olympic trials and won gold at the 2010 and 2011 Armed Forces Boxing Championships. The fighter out of Monessen, Penn., notched big victories in 2015 over Wale Omotoso in June and Jose Lopez in September. In PBC on FOX action in January, Vasquez stopped veteran contender Aron Martinez in the sixth-round in Los Angeles.
One of Brooklyn’s most respected fighters,Collazo looks to make the most of his showdown with the undefeated Vazquez on July 16. A world champion in 2005, Collazo has faced top fighters his whole career. Most notably in recent years, he delivered an electrifying second round knockout over Victor Ortiz in December 2014. Collazo gave world champion Keith Thurman trouble in his last outing, staggering him with a body shot in the middle rounds before eventually losing to the undefeated fighter.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.alabamatitlefight.com www.dbe1.com, www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BronzeBomber, @NightmareBoxing @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.