Tag Archives: Kiko Martinez

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DEONTAY WILDER THRILLS BARCLAYS CENTER CROWD WITH SCINTILLATING FIRST ROUND KNOCKOUT OF DOMINIC BREAZEALE SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME® TO ENTER RARIFIED AIR OF HEAVYWEIGHT BOXING CHAMPIONS

May 19, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

***Gary Russell Jr. Retains Featherweight Title with TKO Over Kiko Martinez***

***Juan Heraldez and Argenis Mendez Fight to Majority Draw In Telecast Opener***
***Live from Brooklyn***

**Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT On**
**SHOWTIME EXTREME^®**

**Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME**
**& HERE for Photos from Tom Casino/SHOWTIME**
***(Photos added shortly)***

**Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions**
**Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions**

**BROOKLYN** (May 19, 2019) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion **Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder** delivered the 40^th knockout of his career in devastating fashion Saturday night, sending mandatory challenger **Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale**flat on his back with a trademark right hand in front of a raucous crowd at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Successfully defending his belt for the ninth time, Wilder joins illustrious company alongside Hall of Famers Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and more and becomes the 10th fighter in history to make nine or more consecutive successful heavyweight title defenses. Watch HERE: https://s.sho.com/2Hp0AEh

In the buildup to tonight’s world championship bout, Wilder (41-0-1, 40 KOs) repeatedly promised that the fight would not last long. The towering Tuscaloosa, Ala. native kept his word, scoring the 20^th first round knockout of his career and his 15^th knockdown as heavyweight world champion. Breazeale (20-2, 18 KOs) was able to withstand Wilder’s first early onslaught, but could not beat referee Harvey Dock’s 10-count when Wilder connected flush with the most dangerous right hand in boxing later in the opening round.

“Everything just came out of me tonight”, said Wilder. “I know it’s been a big buildup, there’s been a lot of animosity and a lot of words that were said and it just came out of me tonight. That’s what makes boxing so great.

“I just told Breazeale I love him and of course I want to see him go home to his family. I know we say some things, but when you can fight a man and then you can hug him and kiss him, I wish the world was like that. We shake hands and we live to see another day and that’s what it’s all about.”

As the attention of the heavyweight division turns to what’s next, Wilder insists that a fight with Tyson Fury, the only man he has faced and not defeated, or Anthony Joshua remains on the table and in the works.

“I understand what Fury did,” said Wilder. “When you get dropped on the canvas like that I understand you have to get yourself back together. But the rematch will happen, like all these other fights will happen. The great thing is all these fights rare in discussion. The big fights will happen. I just want you to have patience.”

Breazeale, whose only two defeats have now come against both Wilder and Joshua, was disappointed he wasn’t allowed to continue the fight.

“I think the ref stopped it a little early because I could hear him saying seven and eight, but that’s boxing,” said Breazeale. “He did his job and kept us safe for our next fight.

“I got on my feet and had my legs under me. It’s the heavyweight division so there’s going to big shots from guys with power. This was a situation where he landed the big right hand before I did. I thought I was going to come on in the later rounds. I’ll be back and go for the heavyweight title again.”

In the co-feature, WBC Featherweight World Champion **Gary Russell Jr.** (30-1, 18 KOs) put on yet another professional display to defend his belt for the fourth time against a valiant **Kiko Martinez** (39-9-2, 28 KOs). Due to a gash that opened up over Martinez’s left eye, referee Ricky Gonzalez stopped the fight in the fifth round upon the advice of the ringside physician, resulting in a technical knockout.

Russell, who was fighting for the first time in a year, showed no signs of ring rust and displayed his full skillset including his trademark lightning quick hands. The 30-year-old Capitol Heights, Md. native was dominant from the opening bell and landed on a remarkable 40% of his power punches. In an all-action fight with little downtime, Martinez did more than enough to play his part. The Spaniard constantly came forward but Russell continued to target the cut that opened up over his eye after a right hook in the second round. The ringside official called for the stoppage of the fight at 2:52 of round number five.

“I did pretty good,” said the 2008 U.S. Olympian Russell to SHOWTIME ringside reporter Jim Gray. “We stayed behind the jab and he couldn’t get past it. We knew that intellect over athleticism would get it done.

“We want [WBA Featherweight Champion] Leo Santa Cruz,” Russell continued while wearing a shirt that read ‘Leo Next’. “We want to make this fight happen. The fire is all the way hot on this side of the field. You will get burned. I would love for that fight to happen this year. Let’s make it happen.”

“It was a good stoppage for a very tough fight,” said the former world champion Martinez. “I’m definitely a visual fighter so the cut made it tough. Gary was in great physical condition and it was a very hard fight.

“I’m going to rest a little bit now, but I’ll be back. I thought I had some good moments and had a good division. I think I’ll drop back down to 122-pounds to win a world title there.”

In the telecast opener, undefeated prospect **Juan Heraldez** (16-0-1, 10 KOs) and former world champion **Argenis Mendez** (25-5-2, 12 KOs) fought to a highly competitive majority draw. Two judges scored the fight 95-95, while a third had Mendez winning 97-93.

Fighting in front of his mentor Floyd Mayweather, Las Vegas’ Heraldez controlled many of the early rounds by setting the pace and establishing his jab. Heraldez outlanded Mendez 126-108 in total punches and 70-30 in jabs throughout the 10 rounds. Falling behind early, Mendez, a seasoned veteran and 2004 Dominican Republic Olympian, used his experience to grow back into the fight. The tempo picked up in the fifth round, as both fighters landed several heavy blows but the momentum shifted towards Mendez. The 32-year-old Mendez, who has fought seven current or former champions, closed out the fight exceptionally strong, winning the final round on all three judges’ scorecards. Without doing so, Mendez would have lost the fight.

“I thought I won the fight,” said a disappointed Mendez. “He didn’t do anything to me. How did he win the fight? If I have to prove I beat him in a rematch, I’ll be ready. I won’t leave it up to the judges.

“My speed and my power made it difficult for him. I thought my counterpunching was really good. He tired toward the later rounds and that let me get a little closer to him to get my offense going.”

Similarly, Heraldez thought he did enough to win the fight which he viewed as a potential coming out party.

“I thought I won a close decision,” Heraldez said. “I didn’t think it was a draw. He didn’t do anything that hurt me at any point.

“He wasn’t really engaging with me. He was just trying to move around and pick his shots, but it wasn’t anything I wasn’t ready for. I’ll either take the rematch with Mendez or move forward toward my goal of a world title.”

Preceding the telecast, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN featured three undercard attractions streamed live on the SHOWTIME Sports social platforms. A battle between heavyweights **Robert Alfonso** (18-0-1, 8 KOs) and **Iago Kiladze** (26-4-1, 18 KOs) ended in a split-draw after eight rounds of action. While one judge scored the fight 77-75 for Alfonso, another had it 77-75 for Kiladze, with the third judge scoring it 76-76, resulting in the draw.

Also entering the ring was 2016 U.S. Olympian **Gary Antuanne Russell** (9-0, 9 KOs), the younger brother of the featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr., who droppedMarcos Mojica (16-4-2, 12 KOs) twice to earn a stoppage 2:13 into the third round. Rounding out the action was Brooklyn-native and 2016 Haitian Olympian **Richardson Hitchins** (9-0, 5 KOs), who scored a TKO of **Alejandro Munera** (4-2-3, 4 KOs) after Munera was knocked down in round three and unable to continue despite making it to the final bell of the round.

#          #          #

***ABOUT WILDER VS. BREAZEALE***
Wilder vs. Breazeale was a BombZquad event headlined by Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder defending his WBC title against top contender Dominic Breazeale Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® began at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and featured WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defending his title against former world champion **Kiko Martínez**, plus unbeaten super lightweight contender **Juan Heráldez** squaring-off against former world champion **Argenis Méndez** in a 10-round attraction. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight was co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

DEONTAY WILDER VS. DOMINIC BREAZEALE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

May 17, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

***“The closest Breazeale is going to get to this belt, is in his dreams,” Wilder***

***“I’m going to beat Deontay so bad that he’s not going to ever want to lace up the gloves again,” Breazeale***

**Wilder vs. Breazeale Heavyweight World Championship Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING**^®**Tripleheader This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME**^® **from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions**

**Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/**
**Mayweather Promotions**

**BROOKLYN** (May 16, 2019) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion **Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder** and mandatory challenger **Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale** continued their war of words and further escalated their longstanding feud at the final press conference Thursday ahead of their showdown this Saturday live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Also featured at the final press conference were WBC Featherweight World ChampionGary Russell Jr. and former world champion **Kiko Martinez**, who meet in a 12-round bout for Russell’s world title, and unbeaten **Juan Heraldez** and former world champion **Argenis Mendez**, who compete in a 10-round super lightweight fight. Those two bouts will be part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME, while three undercard fights will stream live on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN.

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.comandbarclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Barclays Center:

**DEONTAY WILDER**

“These fighters always get into great shape and think they have the game plan to beat me. They think they’re going to catch me. It’s not going to work. Nothing this guy has prepared for is going to work.

“I hope he brings the best he can bring. This is more than just a boxing match. I’m passionate about what I do. This has been a long time coming for me and Dominic. He asked for this, and he shall receive.

“It’s going to be an amazing night for me, and a sad night for him. Being heavyweight champion is a big responsibility. Not everyone is made to be a champion. It’s more than being glamorous or carrying around this prestigious belt.

“I’ve trained harder than I’ve ever trained. He’s got me inspired like I was against Bermane Stiverne. I want to hurt Breazeale so bad. I’m going to keep my composure until that time comes Saturday night.

“I don’t believe Breazeale when he speaks. I’ve been in this game for a very long time. Someone like him is not going to beat me. The closest he’s going to get to this belt is in his dreams.

“My whole team has been with me since day one. We started together and we’re going to go all the way together. It’s been an amazing run for me. I started my career at the very bottom and worked all the way to this point.

“We never rushed anything. Even in the Olympics, I was still learning on the job. We trained to be a long term champion, not a short term champion, and we accomplished that. I’m appreciative for how far I’ve come and for everything that’s come with it. Hard work pays off.

“My actions are going to speak louder than my words. I am the best. I am the chosen one. He can say what he wants. It’s going to be a great fight for as long as it lasts. I’m going to bring the pain. Saturday night, everyone is in for a treat.”

**DOMINIC BREAZEALE**

“I’m super excited for this fight. Virgil Hunter and myself had a great camp. It was truly one of the best of my life. I’m mentally focused and physically right.

“I’m excited to be back and get another knockout win. Getting that WBC belt is everything to me. This is my Super Bowl.

“Victory for me on Saturday is everything. Wilder doesn’t know what he’s getting himself into. He’s in for a fight. He better be confident in his abilities, because Saturday night, he’s going to be in the toughest fight of his life.

“I’m going to beat Deontay so bad that he’s not going to ever want to lace up the gloves again. Sports are 80% mental. When I’m done with him, the mental aspect is going to be beat out of him.

“I’m going to put on another explosive performance. I’ve been dreaming for the last year about hearing ‘and the new.’ It’s a beautiful thing and I can’t wait to make it come true and have my hand raised.

“Wilder hasn’t developed at all during his career. He looks the same as he did in the amateurs. He needs to talk himself up to make himself feel confident.

“I’m too mentally in-tune to be focused on what someone says. When I go into a fight I don’t worry about what my opponent can do, but about what I want to do and how I can execute.

“None of Deontay’s words affect me at all. He’s going to keep barking and I’m just going to keep waiting. I’m going to quiet him down on Saturday night.”

**GARY RUSSELL JR.**

“I’m hungry and ready. Anyone that I step in the ring with is standing in the way of my goals. Anyone trying to stop me, is in a dangerous position.

“We’re going to try to control the pace of the fight with my jab. I don’t think he’s going to get past the jab. He’s going to try to get rough and physical. My plan is to make the adjustments that I need to get this win.

“It’s always a family affair with the Russells. We move as a unit and we excel as a unit. My family is where I pull all my energy from. It’s never a distraction. They give me the fuel I need.

“In boxing you need to have full trust and belief in your coach. I couldn’t imagine a better fit than having my dad. Even if he gives instructions that might not be 100% right in my eyes, I know that it’s going to be the best thing for me.

“No one in this division wants to step in the ring with me. They know the speed and power and abilities that I bring every time I step into the ring.

“Deontay and I were on the same Olympic team, plus Dominic and my little brother Gary Antuanne Russell were also U.S. Olympians. It makes for an amazing card on Saturday night.”

**KIKO MARTINEZ**

“I come to fight and get that title. I had a very smooth training camp and feel 100 percent physically.

“I think my experience is superior. He thinks I’m only a pressure fighter, but he hasn’t seen me box the way I’m going to box him on Saturday.

“This is the biggest opportunity of my life. To be on this platform and be able to fight for the championship is very special. I’m going to make the most of it.

“I hope that Russell doesn’t take me lightly because I still have a lot of abilities left. It’s going to be a great fight for as long as it lasts.”

**JUAN HERALDEZ**

“Camp went great and I can’t wait to put on a show. I’m going to let everyone in this division know that I’m coming for them. I’m going to seize the moment and take full advantage of it.

“I feel strong and I’m ready to fight. I’m just counting down the minutes until I can step into the ring. It’s a lot of excitement and I’m going to let it all out Saturday.

“I plan to win in spectacular fashion on Saturday. I’m going to show everyone that I’m a player at 140-pounds and I’m ready for anyone they can put in front of me.

“I’m not planning to get hit. I’m going to out box him and stick and move. He’s not going to be able to touch me. If the opportunity for a knockout comes, I’ll take it.”

**ARGENIS MENDEZ**

“I’m very excited for this opportunity. I had a great training camp and on Saturday night you’re going to see a show at Barclays Center.

“I love boxing and I love this opportunity that I have on Saturday night. I’m going to show my passion for the sport during this fight. I feel great physically and just cannot wait to get into the ring.

“A win on Saturday night opens the door for me. People are going to start seeing me as one of the best fighters from the Dominican Republic.

“It’s going to be a good fight. I have the speed and skills to out box him. We’re both very smart fighters. I believe I’m the better fighter and it will show on Saturday night.”

**STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.**

“The heavyweight division is exciting again and a lot of that has to do with Deontay Wilder. It’s also been helped by SHOWTIME and our commitment to the division. No other network has been more committed or invested more in the heavyweights than SHOWTIME has and we’re proud of that.

“We’re also proud that several of the fighters on this card have fought frequently on SHOWTIME. Deontay will make his 12^th appearance and Gary will make his 11th. Wilder, Russell and Dominic all launched their careers on ShoBox, like so many other great fighters.

“When you get two guys together for a long-awaited grudge match, there’s not a lot that needs to be said. Deontay is the longest-reigning heavyweight champion in the sport. This would be the ninth defense for him, which is something that only nine other heavyweights have done in boxing history.

“Deonay had two of the most exciting heavyweight fights in recent history last year. As for Dominic, he’s a big strong experienced guy who’s been on the world stage before. He has fought for a world title and he’s coming off of three consecutive wins. He has plenty of power and we saw that in his last fight against Carlos Negron that he can change the fight in one punch.”

**BRETT YORMARK, CEO of BSE Global**

“The heavyweight division has been the talk of the sports world for months, and it’s fitting that the world champion will defend his title right here in Brooklyn in one of the biggest fights in the sport this year.

“Deontay, I’ve said for a long time that this is your home away from home and we can’t wait to have you back. You have a big opponent this week in Dominic Breazeale. Dominic you’ve already made two appearances in our ring and we know the fans are looking forward to another great show.”

# # #

***ABOUT WILDER VS. BREAZEALE***
Wilder vs. Breazeale is headlined by Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder defending his WBC title against top contender Dominic Breazeale Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defending his title against former world champion **Kiko Martínez**, plus unbeaten super lightweight contender **Juan Heráldez** squaring-off against former world champion **Argenis Méndez** in a 10-round attraction. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER LOOKS TO STEP INTO PANTHEON OF ALL-TIME HEAVYWEIGHT GREATS

May 10, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**American Champion Wilder Fights To Join**
**Hall Of Fame Heavyweights Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson And More As Only The 10^th Heavyweight In History With Nine Or More Successful Consecutive Title Defenses**

***Saturday, May 18 Against Top Contender Dominic Breazeale Live on SHOWTIME***^® ***from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by***
***Premier Boxing Champions***

**BROOKLYN** (May 8, 2019) – When WBC Heavyweight World Champion **Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder** defends his title against mandatory challenger **Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale** on Saturday, May 18, he will not only seek to continue his run as the only American heavyweight champion, but also cement himself into the historic company of heavyweight legends that came before him.

In an event taking place live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, Wilder will attempt to defend his WBC title for the ninth time since first capturing the belt in January 2015. Wilder’s triumph marked the return of heavyweight prizefighting in America and the end of an eight-year drought without an American heavyweight world champion, the longest in the history of the sport.

“There has been a long line of great American heavyweight champions who represented our country with pride, strength and honor in the ring,” said Wilder. “I take the responsibility very seriously to pick up where they left off and continue to show every young fighter who looks up to me, that they one day can be the heavyweight champion of the world.

“I’m a champion of the world, but I represent for the entire country and everyone in it,” said Wilder. “I’ve fought challengers from all around the world, knowing in my mind how important it was to keep this title in the U.S.

If successful on May 18, Wilder will become just the 10^th fighter in the more than 135-year history of heavyweight boxing to make nine or more consecutive successful heavyweight title defenses. Wilder would join an impressive list of Hall of Famers who dominated the sport during their reign – Tommy Burns, Joe Louis, Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Mike Tyson, Lennox Lewis, Vitali Klitschko and future Hall of Famer Wladimir Klitschko.  *Note: number of title defenses listed below

“Fighters like Jack Johnson, Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and more have paved the way for me,” said Wilder. “Now I’m going to take what they started and make sure that the heavyweight world championship stays in America for a long time.”

Wilder’s successes in the ring have seen him skyrocket toward the kind of recognition that heavyweight champions have garnered throughout history. In 2018 he was ranked 34 on ESPN’s “World Fame 100” list, the top spot of any boxer in the world.

“Being the heavyweight champion and holding that title on the American sports landscape is a huge deal,” said Wilder. “There was a time where that person was as well-known as the president. I’m going to keep leaving a path of destruction inside the ring, so that everyone knows I am the one name and one face of the heavyweight division.”

List of fighters with nine consecutive heavyweight title defenses *(listed chronologically)*:
1.) Tommy Burns (11)
2.)   Joe Louis (25)
3.)   Joe Frazier (nine)
4.)   Muhammad Ali (nine in first run, 10 in second reign)
5.)   Larry Holmes (20)
6.)   Mike Tyson (nine in first run)
7.)   Lennox Lewis (nine in second run)
8.)   Vitali Klitschko (11 in second run)
9.)   Wladimir Klitschko (18 in second run)

#          #          #

***ABOUT WILDER VS. BREAZEALE***
Wilder vs. Breazeale is headlined by Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder defending his WBC title against top contender Dominic Breazeale Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features
WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defending his title against former world champion **Kiko Martínez**, plus unbeaten super lightweight contender
**Juan Heráldez** squaring-off against former world champion **Argenis Méndez** in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.comandbarclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,
www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

JUAN HERALDEZ TRAINING CAMP QUOTES & PHOTOS

May 3, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

***“I have to outclass him and make him not even want to fight anymore. I’m going to make him retire,” – Heraldez***

**Unbeaten Super Lightweight Contender Heraldez Battles Former Champion Argenis Mendez Saturday, May 18 on Wilder vs. Breazeale Undercard Live on SHOWTIME**^® **from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions**

**Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/**
**Mayweather Promotions**

**LAS VEGAS** (May 2, 2019) – Unbeaten super lightweight contender **Juan Heraldez** is looking to make a statement when he takes on former world champion **Argenis Mendez**in a 10-round showdown Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“I have to outclass him and make him not even want to fight anymore,” said Heraldez. “I’m going to make him retire. My goal on fight night is to win and show out for my Mexican fans in New York.”

Heraldez, who trains out of the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas with coach Otis Pimpleton, made his 2019 debut in February by knocking out Eddie Ramirez in round seven of their super lightweight fight. Mendez is another step up in competition for the 28-year-old.

“On paper he’s the toughest fighter I’ve faced,” said Heraldez. “I only watched some of his fight against Ramirez, but being a former world champion, it means he’s doing something right. I don’t think he does anything better than me and I’m looking to show it on fight night.”

This will be Heraldez’s first fight on SHOWTIME, giving him a chance to shine on a big stage leading up to the Deontay Wilder heavyweight world title defense against Dominic Breazeale in the main event. For Heraldez, he sees this is an opportunity to display what he’s already being doing in the ring for years.

“I’m excited to be able to show off what I’ve always been able to do,” said Heraldez. “It’s going to be no surprise to the people around me who know what I’m capable of. It’s another stage with more people watching, but the ring and everything else stays the same.

“A fight like this adds more motivation for my future because I want to keep changing the lives of my family. Little by little, win by win and fight by fight, I can accomplish that. That’s where my motivation comes from.”

A Las Vegas-native who is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, Heraldez believes he’s ready for a world title shot and knows that Argenis Mendez is currently in his path to getting that coveted opportunity.

“If the title fight is there after I beat Mendez, I’m taking it,” said Heraldez. “That’s one of the ultimate goals and something I’ve been preparing for my whole career. I’m going to keep training hard like I always do to be at my best against Mendez. I’m going to have a great performance May 18 and they won’t be able to deny my place in this division.”

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.comandbarclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

# # #

***ABOUT WILDER VS. BREAZEALE***
Wilder vs. Breazeale is headlined by Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder defending his WBC title against top contender Dominic Breazeale Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defending his title against former world champion **Kiko Martínez**, plus unbeaten super lightweight contender **Juan Heráldez** squaring-off against former world champion **Argenis Méndez** in a 10-round attraction.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. To Defend Against Former Champion Kiko Martinez In Co-Feature To Wilder vs. Breazeale Saturday, May 18 Live on SHOWTIME – Unbeaten Super Lightweight Contender Juan Heraldez Takes On Former Champion Argenis Mendez in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Opener from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

April 20, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

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LEO SANTA CRUZ RETAINS WBA FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH FIFTH-ROUND TKO WIN OVER KIKO MARTINEZ

February 28, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

HUGO RUIZ REGAINS WBC SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE WITH DEVASTATING FIRST-ROUND KO OVER JULIO CEJA

Watch The Replay Of The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® DoubleheaderTomorrow/Sunday at 9 a.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME^®,

Monday, Feb. 29, at 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHO EXTREME^®

Click HERE For Photos

Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb. 27, 2016) – Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz defended his WBA Featherweight World Championship in convincing fashion on Saturday night, knocking down Kiko “Sensación” Martinez twice in the first round, then ending it on a barrage of punches as the fight was called at 2:09 in the fifth round in the main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader at Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

In the co-feature on SHOWTIME, 29-year-old Hugo Ruiz (36-3, 31 KOs), Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, regained his WBC Super Bantamweight World Title with a devastating early knockdown with just 51 seconds into the 12-round fight against 23-year-old Julio Ceja (30-2, 27 KOs) of Atizapan De Zaragoza, Mexico, in a highly anticipated rematch of their August fight won by Ceja.

Fighting just 10 miles west of his hometown of La Habra and before 7,780 enthusiastic fans, the 27-year-old Santa Cruz (32-0-1, 18 KOs) continued to establish himself as the King of Southern California as he punished the game 29-year-old Martinez (35-7, 26 KOs) of Alicante, Valencia, Spain, with 570 total punches in just five rounds. There were 1,038 total punches thrown during the fight.

“The fans love it when two fighters go toe-to-toe,” Santa Cruz told SHOWTIME’s Jim Gray after the fight. “I wanted to give the fans a great fight. I knew I could hurt him with a right hand. He’s a fighter and when he’s knocked down, he’s going to come back. In the fifth round I knew I had to finish him off and I did.”

Santa Cruz continued, “We were going toe-to-toe from the beginning. He’s was throwing good punches I was throwing out good punches and the crowd was loving it. Then my dad told me to slow down and be smarter so we started boxing.”

Santa Cruz wasted no time getting the upper hand as the opening bell rung. He knocked Martinez out twice in the first round; the first just 23 seconds into the fight and the second on a devastating right hand at two minutes into the round prompting SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING play-by-play announcer Mauro Ranallo to tell expert analyst Al Bernstein: “We may be able to get to Disneyland before the end of the night.”

Martinez fell into a groove in the third and fourth rounds, but got into trouble two minutes into the fifth round as Santa Cruz had him up against the ropes connecting on numerous body shots, uppercuts and combinations before referee Raul Caiz Sr. signaled the end of the fight for Santa Cruz’s second straight world title defense in Southern California.

Martinez said that Santa Cruz, “started to move a lot and he broke my strategy and he fought a great fight. The second round I was getting looser and I was starting to feel much better.

“He was like a bull coming forward really strong,” Santa Cruz added. “He has definitely been one of the strongest fighters I’ve been in the ring with yet.

“Towards the end I said, ‘this is it, this is my opportunity to take him down. If I don’t finish him right here, it’s going to make it a really tough fight.’ So I said I was going at it with my all and thankfully it turned out the way that it did.”

Santa Cruz, making his second defense after capturing the world title from Abner Mares back in August, said someday he wants to break the records for most punches thrown in a fight. “I wanted to throw as many punches as I can so the fans could get a good show.”

Santa Cruz is now eyeing a future potential matchup with IBF 122-pound world champion Carl Frampton at 126 pounds or Gary Russell. “I’m up for anyone,” he said. “I want the rematch with (Abner) Mares. Since Frampton won, if he’s ready to go up in weight, I’m ready for him. I challenge him to a fight whenever he’s ready.”

In a rematch of the WBC Super Bantamweight World Title he lost last August, the new 122-pound champion Ruiz improved his record to 5-0 in rematches (with five knockouts) as he delivered a stunning first-round knockout against Ceja, who injured his right ankle on a powerful clean right just seconds into the fight sending him to the canvas.

Ceja got up slowly but was battered with a fury of punches and knocked out again with just 51 seconds into the fight ending the affair.

“I was very prepared to knock him out, but I was prepared to go 12 rounds tonight also if I had to,” said Ruiz, who was teary and emotional following the victory. “I was happy to knock him out in the first round. I’m looking for the best fighters and the best money out there.”

Said SHOWTIME analyst Paulie Malignaggi: “I’ve never seen a first-round KO that soon in a fight of this much importance.” Added SHOWTIME’s Bernstein: “The right hand was the weapon of choice for Ruiz, and he got the job done. What a moment of redemption for Ruiz!”

Ceja, who beat Ruiz on a fifth-round knockout last August to win the world title, was hurt from the first series of Ruiz punches and never recovered in the intense first round.

Ceja was taken to nearby UC Irvine Hospital and diagnosed with a fractured right ankle.

“I saw that he got hurt with the first punch and I saw his leg wobbling and so I said, ‘Let’s finish’,” Ruiz said. “And I did in that round.”

Earlier Saturday from Manchester, England, on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL, IBF 122-pound world champion Carl Frampton unified the super bantamweight division with a split decision victory over WBA titlist Scott Quigg.

The long-awaited matchup of unbeaten champions got off to a slow and tactical start, but Belfast native Frampton (22-0, 14 KOs) established himself as the aggressor and worked his jab to pocket the early rounds. Quigg didn’t come alive until after the seventh, when trainer Joe Gallagher warned his charge that he was likely down big on the judges’ scorecards.

Quigg (31-1-2) pounded the body and was the aggressor in rounds eight through 11, but it was too little, too late for the Lancashire, England native. Frampton won the 12^th and walked away the unified champion by scores of 115-113 for Quigg, but 116-112 twice for Frampton.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader will re-air this week as follows:

DAY CHANNEL

Tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 28, 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT SHOW EXTREME

Tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 28, 9 am ET/PT SHOWTIME

Monday, Feb. 29, 10 p.m. ET/PT SHOWTIME EXTREME

Saturday’s two-fight telecast will be available at SHOWTIME ON DEMAND beginning tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 28.

Brian Custer hosted the SHOWTIME telecast, with Mauro Ranallo calling the action, Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-time world champion Paulie Malignaggicommentating and Jim Gray reporting. In the Spanish simulcast, Alejandro Luna called the blow-by-blow and former world champion Raul Marquez served as color commentator. The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.

# # #

Santa Cruz vs. Martinez, was 12-round bout for Santa Cruz’s WBA Featherweight Title taking place on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Corona. In the co-feature, Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz met in a super bantamweight world title rematch for the WBC belt. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast aired live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) and was available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @LeoSantaCruz2, @MartinezKiko, @TGBPromotions, @HondaCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

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LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. KIKO MARTINEZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FOR THEIR FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN THIS SATURDAY AT THE HONDA CENTER

February 27, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

Live On SHOWTIME^®At 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Click HERE For Photos

Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

ANAHEIM, CALIF. (February 25, 2016) – Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruzand Kiko “Sensacion” Martinez went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their featherweight world title showdown on Saturday, Feb. 27 live on SHOWTIME^® (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Also in attendance Thursday were Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz, who will enter the ring in a super bantamweight world title rematch as part of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The previously announced opening bout between undefeated heavyweights Gerald Washington (16-0-1, 11 KOs) and Oscar Rivas (18-0, 13 KOs) has been cancelled due to Rivas being unable to pass a mandatory eye-exam.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB promotions, are priced at $27, $54, $104 and $199 and are on sale now via ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster retail locations, by calling 800-745-3000 of by stopping by the Honda Center Box Office.

All of the televised fighters in the now doubleheader have promised to live up to their all-action styles and will provide great drama for fans on Saturday night at Honda Center. Santa Cruz will be making the first defense of his featherweight world title while Ceja puts his 122-pound title on the line after earning the vacant belt with a fifth round stoppage of Ruiz in an exciting back-and-forth fight in August.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“Headlining a televised card has been my childhood dream. I could have never imagined I was going to get this far. And Here I am, on my second main event, defending my title on a premium network. I’m so psyched. I cannot believe it.

“The first time I put the gloves on, I knew that I had found my craft, and I also knew that it was not going to be an easy road. I knew that I had to work hard to become a champion. So, I trained the hardest and I fought the hardest, and with my father by my side I got here, where I’m at today. I owe him everything.

“I remember watching all the great Mexican Champions and day dreaming about being like them one day. It felt unreachable. I thought it was impossible to get where they were. But I worked hard, really hard from the beginning.

“The most important thing is that the fans leave happy and get their money’s worth. I’m glad that Kiko has come prepared because we’re ready for a great fight.

“People are saying that I should walk through Kiko Martinez, but I don’t listen to that. I look at Kiko the same way I look at any other opponent. When we step inside the ring, we are equals.

“At the end of the day, the winner will be the fighter who has prepared more and who has imposed his will on the other man.

KIKO MARTINEZ

“I have faced much stronger boxers than Leo and come Saturday, all of those who did bet on me for this fight, I am going to make you a lot of money.

“I am excited and proud to know that Sergio Martinez will be present on Saturday supporting me. His guidance and presence

“My trainer could not be here, but we have not taken one day off in training camp and I have been pushed to my limit to prepare me for this fight. I’m thankful to Robert Garcia for being in my corner on Saturday.

“I know this is a great opportunity to fight Leo Santa Cruz and I will make the most of it. I’m going to leave everything inside the ring so that the fight fans enjoy a great championship matchup.

“I feel that Leo Santa Cruz is a great fighter, he has beat some incredible fighters. He’s a great athlete and boxer. Sometimes people will try to make him out to be more than he actually is but they are mistaken with what they see in me. I am not to be mistaken as the underdog here.

JULIO CEJA

“As Hugo mentioned, we have both trained even harder than last time and we’re more prepared physically and mentally.

“I’m going to give everybody a great fight just like last time. I’m walking into the ring knowing my opponent very well. We’ve been to war. I know what to expect from him. I know about his punch and I know how to counter it.

“I’m going to be alert and ready. I’ll be a little more intelligent, because I know that he’s coming well prepared and he’s coming for the world title, but he’s not going to get it.

“There are going to be no surprises in this fight. Hugo Ruiz said that he was training harder this time. But I am too. I’ve trained very hard.

“The key for me to win this fight is to keep my hands up and to not give him one inch. I cannot be careless. I’ll be strategic and use my wisdom. I cannot come in with my hands down because I know I’ll pay for it. But nothing to worry about, we have rectified those issues in training camp. I’m ready. He’s not taking my belt away from me.

“I’m glad that he says he is better prepared this time because I am better than ever. My team has been instrumental in preparing me for this matchup.

“The winner will be the man who is more prepared physically and mentally. But the real winner will be the fans at Honda Center because this is an amazing card and we’re going to put on an amazing fight.”

HUGO RUIZ

“If you liked the first fight between us, then you are going to love this one.

“I’m excited to be fighting once again in Southern California. I’ve trained very hard and I have prepared myself for this world title opportunity.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a grand show for all my fans on Saturday night.”

JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’ Father & Trainer

“I hear Kiko has a great trainer on his corner. Robert Garcia is really good, but I have news for Kiko, his trainer is not going to fight for him.

“Once a fighter steps into the ring, he’s alone in there. There are no trainers and no great promoters that can fight for him.”

“Kiko speaks about this prestigious trainer and thinks that by mentioning him, he is going to intimidate us. He has something else coming. The trainer won’t fight for Kiko. Roberto Garcia has trained my son and knows Leo very well but that does not give Kiko the upper hand.”

TOM BROWN, Head of TGB Promotions

“Southern California favorite Leo Santa Cruz returns to bring his action style to the ring. He will be opposed by a tough former world champion in Kiko Martinez who is sure to make this a tremendous fight.

“The first fight between Ceja and Ruiz was a true back and forth war. Should this pick up right where it left off, we will have a great fight to start the telecast.

“I’m looking forward to a great night on Saturday night in front of the fantastic Southern California boxing fans.”

TIM RYAN, CEO & President of Honda Center

“I’m so thankful to everyone for helping to bring boxing back to Orange County. It’s hard to believe that Julio Cesar Chavez fought here in 1996, because it seems like yesterday.

“We have a great arena and a great fan base that loves boxing here in Orange County. The card on Saturday is wonderful. I know these guys will be ready and I’m looking forward to an action-packed night on the 27^th.

CHRIS DEBLASIO, Vice President, Sports Communication Showtime Networks

“This is a fight fan’s fight card and we are looking forward to some explosive action. I think everyone knows that the lighter weight classes, especially at the championship level, produce exciting fights. My favorite examples include the epic series between Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez, which are available on SHOWTIME platforms and should wet your appetite for what we will see on Saturday night.”

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KIKO MARTINEZ, JULIO CEJA & GERALD WASHINGTON MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR THIS SATURDAY’S SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® TRIPLEHEADER Live On SHOWTIME® At 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT “

February 26, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

Click HERE For Photos

Credit: Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 24, 2016) – Former world champion Kiko “Sensacion” Martinez (35-6-0, 26 KOs) participated in a media workout Wednesday at the City of Angels Boxing Club in Los Angeles as he prepares to face undefeated WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz (31-0-1, 17 KOs) on Saturday, Feb. 27 live on SHOWTIME^® (7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET) from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

In the co-feature Mexican warrior Julio Ceja (30-1, 27 KOs) meets Hugo Ruiz 35-3, 31 KOs) in a long-awaited Super Bantamweight World Title rematch and undefeated heavyweight Gerald Washington (16-0-1, 11 KOs) will face unbeaten Oscar Rivas (18-0, 13 KOs). Both Ceja and Washington joined Martinez to give the media a preview of what’s to come on Saturday.

Martinez spoke about the adjustments he’s made as his trainer Gabriel Sarmiento was unable to obtain a Visa in time to travel to the United States and will not be able to serve in his corner come Saturday. Martinez is confident that renowned Southern California trainer Robert García will be able to lead him to a world title on Saturdaynight.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

KIKO MARTINEZ

“I’m very happy to have Robert Garcia in my corner. He has led so many fighters to world titles. I’m excited and I’m anxious to get things going. I’m ready to collaborate and I think we’ll do great things Saturday.

“The people who doubt that I will take this title only make me stronger and more dangerous.

“Training camp has been extremely tough with lots of demands due to facing a champion like Leo Santa Cruz because he’s an excellent boxer who I admire. I have completely devoted myself to training for this fight.

“On Saturday everyone will get to see the best Kiko Martinez. I am going to be bringing the pressure and giving you all a great fight with power punches to disarm Santa Cruz and take the title.

“I hope that fans will change their mindset of seeing me as the underdog and support me because I am here to show something else.

“I am very happy to be here and have the opportunity to fight in the United States again.

“I love this California weather, it reminds me of the weather of El Canario where I was training and I am feeling great.

“I am ready. Now all there is left is to wait. We’ve got the weigh-in ahead of us and I’ve already made weight. I will be working up a sweat just to remain active and distracted because I am ready to jump in the ring and start the best fight of my life.

“I have won a world title in the United States and became a world champ here and I am expecting to become the world champ here once again. That fight was how I became known here, now this fight will be the biggest fight of my career.

“I’ve been studying [Santa Cruz] for quite some time now, since I’ve been waiting to fight him previously, now it has come to this point in this time of my life. I have grown and learned so much since then that I truly feel that I have learned from my mistakes and grown to the best of my life yet.”

“Luckily [trainer Gabriel Sarmiento] has been training me up until this point. We’re on the same team and we have each other’s backs and he is still fully supportive. I have him in my heart and I know that he will be supporting me all the way.

“I am not worried about what anyone is saying. All I want is to get in the ring comeSaturday and demonstrate that Leo and I will put on a huge fight and the audience will not be bored for a single minute.”

JULIO CEJA

“We have had a long and very intense camp. We are prepared and know what is on the line here because we know that Hugo comes at it with everything he’s got. This is a prestigious opportunity that I have been presented with and we can forecast that it will be an all-or-nothing fight.

“This will be a toe-to-toe fight because we both know each other’s strengths and having fought before we know this rematch will be explosive.

“From the second we knew there would be a rematch, we immediately started training. We knew going in to this again that it will be a tough fight and this one will be better than the first. It will be more dangerous and more of a fight than the last because of what the rematch represents.

“I have trained very hard because I know what is on the line and I am not going to allow Ruiz to take that title from be so easily. It is going to be an all-out battle.

“Hugo has reach and height on me but all I know is that once I hear that bell, none of that matters. There’s a reason why they call me the champ and I am confident in my skill to show that.

“I am looking to show up and give the fans an entertaining show. I will be looking for a fight all throughout and keep it exciting for the fans who are coming out to see a good fight.

“I devoted my life to becoming the champion and my life dream was always to be a champ, so this is something that I will fight to the end for.

“I became a champ here in the United States and now that I am blessed with the opportunity to get a rematch here. I’m ready to take full advantage of this chance to give it 100 percent.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“I grew up boxing and boxing was always my passion as a kid. I used to go to the local Boys & Girls Club as a kid and I’ve been in love with it since. It’s always been a part of me and I’m glad I can do it again and take over this division.

“There are lot’s similarities in football and boxing. You watch film, break your opponent down. We take everything from sparring and practice and take them out to the game.

“This is going to be a great fight. It’s always a good battle when you have two undefeated fighters. It’s going to be a night full of action. I look forward to the action. I love stepping up and facing top-flight competition.

“Rivas has an extensive amateur background. He’s a big, strong guy who likes the knockout. He’s going to go for it. I’m prepared for a fight like that. I know the pressure is coming. We’ve worked hard since my last fight.

“The jab is the key for everything. It opens up all the other shots and keeps the opponent off balance. I’m going to hammer him with it. It’s a major tool.

“It’s a great honor to be fighting here in Los Angeles. My whole life has taken place in this state and everyone who has supported me is coming together on Saturday to see it all in action.

“Heavyweight boxing is always exciting. We’re the hardest hitters in the game. I can’t wait to show everyone the hard work I’ve put in and give a great performance.

“I’m going to be smart and disciplined in the ring. But you also have to have a strong will and have the determination to keep moving forward. You have to step to the guy and apply the pressure.

“My height and reach is always to my advantage but it’s not that. It’s the legs, the mind, the combinations. It’s everything.

“You will see a smart and aggressive style from me on Saturday and I’m going to take that into the next level of my career.”

# # #

Santa Cruz vs. Martinez, a 12-round bout for Santa Cruz’s WBA Featherweight Title taking place on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing Promotions. In the co-feature, Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz will meet in super bantamweight world title rematch for the WBC belt and opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast, Gerald Washington will face Oscar Rivas in a 10-round heavyweight bout. The tripleheader will air live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) and will be available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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LEO SANTA CRUZ MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

February 19, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

Undefeated Santa Cruz Defends Featherweight World Title Against

Former Champ Kiko Martinez Saturday, February 27 Live On SHOWTIME^®

From Honda Center In Anaheim, Calif.

Click HERE For Photos From Scott Hirano/SHOWTIME

ANAHEIM, CALIF. (February 18, 2016) – Undefeated featherweight world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz held an open media workout Thursday at Who’s Next Boxing Academy in La Puente, Calif., as he prepares for his first title defense against Kiko “Sensación” Martinez Saturday, February 27 live onSHOWTIME from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Santa Cruz vs. Martinez headlines a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader that features Mexican warriors Julio Ceja and Hugo Ruiz meeting in an awaited super bantamweight world title rematch plus heavyweights Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington and Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas will put their unblemished records on the line in a 10-round matchup. The action begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $27, $54, $104 and $199 and are on sale now via ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster retail locations or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Honda Center Box Office.

Santa Cruz worked out alongside his father and trainer, Jose Santa Cruz, for the media in attendance and spoke about his upcoming bout and more. The workout also featured a surprise performance from Martin Castillo and a five-piece band that included a tuba and an accordion. Santa Cruz jumped rope and went through drills while traditional Mexican folk music called Corrido filled the Southern California gym.

Here is what Santa Cruz and his father had to say Thursday:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I always train to make a statement. I want to go out there and show everyone that I’m really good and I deserve to be considered one of the best.

“I fight for my family. Since I was small, this is what I’ve wanted to do to help my family. I wanted to work hard and give my family a better future.

“Martinez is a strong fighter who comes forward and always puts pressure on you. He never backs down and always comes to fight. That’s what we like about this matchup — it makes for a more intense fight.

“We’re going to give the fans an entertaining show. The fans are the ones who are going to win at the end of the night. I’m going to go out there and try to knock him out by the end of the third round.

“I think he’s going to be the aggressor because he’s shorter and has to fight that way. But I’m going to go forward and be the aggressor too. If that’s not working, I’ll box him. We’re going to do what we need to do to win the fight.

“I see Carl Frampton vs. Scott Quigg as a 50-50 fight. It’s a tough fight for both of them. I think whoever catches the other guy first will get the victory. They both can hit and they both have great skills. It could go either way.

“It’s a very interesting fight between Frampton and Quigg. They’ve both been possible opponents for me and I hope that I do well that night and face the winner of that fight. I don’t care who it is, I want to fight them.

“I’m willing to fight whoever. I want the winner of Frampton-Quigg. If not then Lee Selby, Gary Russell Jr., Jesus Cuellar or anyone in the division. Hopefully next it will be one of those fighters.

“My fighting style is to always go forward and throw a lot of punches. I just want to entertain the fans. I fight for them and I try to send them home happy. I want to go in there and fight in a war.

“I’m going to fight all of the top guys. I’m still young and I know if I keep working hard and taking care of the guy in front of me, I’ll get all of those fights.

“We’re working on our distance and learning new things every day in camp. I don’t want to change too much, since I’m undefeated. I’m going to be prepared mentally and physically to get the win.

“We’re working hard all the time. We know what we have to do in the ring to win the fight. My last fight our strategy was to brawl but we adjusted it and moved more and we were able to get the victory.

On his recent foray into boxing promotion: “Being a promoter is difficult. It’s very hard. You’re always busy, so right now I’m focused on my boxing career. I’m letting my brothers and my family take care of it now. I’m not there 100 percent yet but I like to give my opinion. It’s something I’d like to do after I retire.”

JOSE SANTA CRUZ

“Leo is very well prepared as he always is. We always train 100 percent and we are ready.

“The team is ready to fight. We have one week left to rest and put some finishing touches on this camp.

“We’re going to fight Martinez with our style. We’re going to do whatever we need to do to win the fight. Leo is going to take the fight to him and try to counteract whatever style Martinez brings.

“It’s going to be a good fight. Whichever style Martinez brings, we’re going to out-maneuver him and make it a good fight. I see Leo winning a decision at least if not a knockout.”

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CONFIDENT, POWER-PUNCHING KIKO MARTINEZ PREDICTS UPSET VICTORY, SAYS WRITING HIM OFF AGAINST CHAMP LEO SANTA CRUZ IS “MAJOR MISTAKE”

February 17, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

Challenger Vows To Take Advantage Of Unexpected Opportunity, Ceja-Ruiz II In Co-Main Saturday, Feb. 27, Live On SHOWTIME^® From Honda Center In Anaheim, Calif.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® Tripleheader Begins With
Unbeaten Heavyweights Gerald Washington vs. Oscar Rivas

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Click HERE For Martinez Training Photos From Sampson Boxing Promotions

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2016) – Spain’s Kiko “Sensación” Martinez is a soft-spoken, hard-hitting former IBF Super Bantamweight World Champion and a three-time European champion at 122 pounds. He’s a come-forward, comes-to-win, aggressive-minded slugger who makes for exciting fights and has been in with excellent opposition.

The ultimate road warrior, the 5-foot-5, 29-year-old Martinez has fought more than one-third of his fights outside his native Spain, where he has tussled 26 times. He’s also fought four times in Ireland, three times in England, three times in Northern Ireland and one time each in Japan, Argentina, France and South Africa.

So don’t expect Martinez (35-6, 26 KOs) to be in awe of the surroundings in his second start in the United States when he challenges unbeaten, defending featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz (31-0-1, 17 KOs) on Saturday, Feb. 27, in the main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Martinez won his U.S. debut and the IBF 122-pound crown with a sixth-round TKO overJhonatan Romero on Aug. 17, 2013. “That was a great night for me,’’ Martinez said. “I’m confident of another great performance on Feb. 27.’’

A winner of three in a row in his homeland, including a fourth-round TKO over Miguel Gonzalez last Dec. 12, Martinez aims to make amends after losing three high-profile fights in recent years to super bantamweight world champions – twice to Carl Frampton(IBF) and once to Scott Quigg (WBA).

Martinez gets an opportunity against Santa Cruz in a fight he never saw coming.

“I’m thrilled to be fighting Leo Santa Cruz, but getting this fight was a total surprise because I already had a fight scheduled,’’ said Martinez, who trains at his friend and manager, former world super middleweight champion Sergio Martinez’ gym in Spain. “I had been scheduled to fight for the European title. When this opportunity came up, I decided to give up the European title to come to America.

“I was very happy and very emotional when I heard about this fight. It was one of the best days of my life when I agreed to fight Santa Cruz. Now, more boxing fans will get to see me. I will not take one step back. I will come forward the whole fight.

“I’m thankful to SHOWTIME and I’m excited for the challenge. It’s a huge fight in the United States and a great opportunity. Some people don’t think I can fight because I lost to those guys [Frampton and Quigg], but they are wrong. I am as determined as ever. I’m going to fight a great fight and come out with a victory.’’

While respectful of the champion, Martinez is no stranger to fighting on foreign soil and is poised to pull off a stunner.

“I will surprise many people who don’t believe in me,’’ he said. “I’m working so hard for this fight. People doubting me has me even more motivated. They will see on Feb. 27 and everyone will change their minds.

“I love fighting in my opponent’s backyard. That is not a problem for me at all. People who know boxing know I will give everything to this sport. I want to give great shows and entertain people. I’m coming forward and throwing punches and I don’t give up.

“I’m going to give 100 percent and it’s going to be a tremendous fight. I have a ton of respect for Leo Santa Cruz. He’s a world champion and a great fighter who’s clearly one of the very best featherweights in the world and a Top 10 pound-for-pound fighter. I am very conscious of that point.

“Leo and I are true warriors so this will be a brutal war. But I have what it takes. I’ve been working very hard with my longtime trainer, Gaby Sarmiento, and I will be victorious.’’

A lifelong resident of Spain, Martinez was born in Granada, Spain, and resides in Alicante. He has two sisters and two brothers but is the only one in the family who boxes professionally. He turned to boxing as a young teenager.

“I started in boxing because when I was about 13 I was smaller and other kids bullied me all the time. So I began looking for a way to learn to defend myself,’’ he said. “Once I decided to start boxing and dedicated myself to it I fell in love with the sport.’’

As an amateur, Martinez went 47-2 and won a Spanish national amateur championship, but he had no international amateur experience. “I had a good amateur career but never thought about the Olympics,’’ he said. “My mind was always on being a pro fighter.’’

A dangerous puncher who’s at his best when he pressures his opponents and wears them down, Martinez turned pro in June 2004. He was victorious in his initial 17 fights, winning all but three by knockout.

Martinez met Sergio Martinez [no relation] about nine years ago. “I met Sergio in the gym in Spain that he used to train himself in and we became good friends. When I started boxing I looked up to Julio Cesar Chavez and I am now a big fan of Marcos Maidana. I like to fight like him.

“But I’ve always had a special relationship with Sergio, who inspired me because he came from poverty like me. He has taught me so much. It’s like looking into a mirror because he knows where I came from. He’s taught me so much inside and outside the ring. We were very poor growing up and my father worked very hard.’’

If triumphant, Kiko Martinez says “I would like to stay at this weight because I feel much stronger. But I would definitely love a rematch with Frampton or Quigg.’’

Regarding the Frampton-Quigg 122-pound world title unification that also takes place onFeb. 27 (in Manchester, England, live on SHOWTIME EXTREME^®), Martinez didn’t hesitate when picking a winner.

“Frampton will win against Quigg,’’ Martinez said. “He’s the more complete boxer. He is stronger as well.”

In the Feb. 27 co-feature on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, hard-hitting Mexican warriors Julio Ceja (30-1, 27 KOs) and Hugo Ruiz (35-3, 31 KOs) will box in a rematch of an exciting, two-way slugfest for the WBC 122-pound world title that Ceja won from Ruiz on a fifth-round knockout last August

Rounding out the televised tripleheader is a 10-round fight between undefeated heavyweights Gerald Washington (16-0-1, 11 KOs) of Vallejo, Calif., and Montreal-based Colombian Oscar Rivas (18-0, 13 KOs).

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