Tag Archives: Las Vegas

boxing, Las Vegas, Tony Penecale

tony penecale’s Box Fan Expo Ringside report

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By: Tony Penecale

Quick video intro here:

https://www.facebook.com/TornadoTP/videos/10156003723726436/

Last weekend’s middleweight title showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs also featured the annual Box Fan Expo, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center.  The amazing memorabilia on display and live amateur boxing action complemented an array of past and present world champion fighters available for quick meet and greets.

As a lifelong boxing fan, it was a shame that I only had a little over two hours to spend at the event before heading back to the T-Mobile Arena for the start of the undercard bouts.  The time I was able to spend was thoroughly enjoyable.  The prices were reasonable to meet these fistic legends and have a few moments to talk and take photos.  The average $20 -$25 price for a photo op was significantly less than what would have been lost at the casino in a single roulette spin.

James Toney was there in a suit, proving that he can even make plaid look stylish.  For a guy known for a surly nature, he was very accommodating and mentioned he will be in Philadelphia for a live show on June 7 and hopes to see me there. 

In the booth next over was Hall-of-Fame broadcaster Al Berstein, who I had the privilege of interviewing in 2011.  When told of my admiration of his classy work and being a fan since his days with Barry Tompkins on ESPN’s Thursday Night Fights, he was humble and appreciative.

The line to meet Roy Jones Jr. was long but worth the wait.  While the time to talk with Roy was short, I was able to mention what an honor it was to meet one of the greatest performers of my generation and how I sat only a few feet from him when he was on the Creed II set.

While the line to meet the legendary Sugar Ray Leonard was exceptionally long, you could see he was truly enjoying himself, flashing that million-dollar smile and doing his famous fists-raised photo op with fans.  Unfortunately, with time running short, I did not have the opportunity to meet one of my favorite fighters growing up.  I would have loved to have shown him a photo when I was four-years-old, swinging away on the Sugar Ray Leonard punching bag I was given. 

A few feet away was one of Sugar Ray’s most-famous rivals, the great Thomas “Hitman” Hearns.  While the Hitman has shown some slowing as he has aged, he still proves to be an imposing figure, but he now replaces that fearsome glare with a warm smile. 

Also coming up to meet Thomas Hearns was current IBF Super-Featherweight Champion Tevin Farmer, a fellow Philadelphian, who I’ve had the opportunity to watch grow from a 7-4-1 journeyman boxer to a 29-4-1 world champion. 

My visit wouldn’t be complete without stopping to see “The Pazmanian Devil” Vinny Paz, always one of my favorite action fighters and charismatic personalities.  Instead of a handshake, he greeted me with a big hug and expressed disappointment that my dad didn’t join me at the expo. 

In the short time frame, it was impossible to meet all of the great fighters there including Michael Spinks, Riddick Bowe, Errol Spence, Anthony Dirrell, and Earnie Shavers.  With it being Cinco de Mayo weekend, the lines for some of the Mexican legends wrapped around the convention center floor.  Mikey Garcia, Marco Antonio Barerra, Erik Morales, and Juan Manuel Marquez all proved to be exceptionally popular.  But nothing compared to the roar of the pro-Mexican crowd when the great Julio Cesar Chavez was introduced.

Attending this event was a dream come true and I could only wish I had more time to spend at the event.  Everything was so professionally done and those in attendance were beyond accommodating.

Kudos to Box Fan Expo for such an exceptional event.

Listen to our radio show episode from earlier this week for more insight from Tony “The Tornado” Penecale about this event.

Full Gallery:

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Split-T Management’s Chris Pearson Scores Unanimous Decision Win over Previously Undefeated Olympic Bronze Medal Winner Yamaguchi Falcao in Las Vegas

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Photo by Tom Hogan / Hogan Photos Golden Boy

NEW YORK (May 3, 2019) –Middleweight contender Chris Pearson scored a major victory over previously undefeated Olympic Bronze Medal winner Yamaguchi Falcao in a 10-round bout at The Joint at The Hard Rock in Las Vegas.


The win netted Pearson the WBO Latino Middleweight title.


Pearson boxed very well as he befuddled Falcao, and consistently beat the former amateur star to the punch throughout the contest.


Pearson, who already held a win over Falcao in the World Series of Boxing, repeated the verdict of 2011 by using good head-speed that saw the judges scorecards read 97-93 and 96-94 twice.


The win will gain Pearson a high-ranking in the WBO, and improves the Trotwood, Ohio native’s record to 17-2.


This was the 3rd consecutive win for Pearson, who is managed by Split-T Management.


“My plan was to be patient and control the pace.  I was able to capitalize on him being a bit slower then me,” said Pearson.  “This win gets me back to where I need to be.”


“I’m blessed with this victory,” continued Pearson. “Nobody knows the trials I’ve gone through. If I can be someone that inspires, then I’ll be happy. I’m going to rest for a couple days and then get right back to the gym.”



The fight was the main event of a Golden Boy Promotions card on Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook watch.



boxing, DAZN, Las Vegas, Tony Penecale

Canelo ALVAREZ VS. Daniel JACOBS ** In-Depth Preview and Analysis **

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By: Tony Penecale
 
The biggest week in boxing is upon us with the annual Cinco de Mayo weekend extravaganza in Las Vegas.  The Mexican marquee star Saul “Canelo” Alvarez returns to his home-away-from-home to face the challenge of fellow middleweight titlist, Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs, who is intent on spoiling the homecoming.

Can Canelo sprinkle some extra cinnamon on an explosive victory?  Or will it be Jacobs who provides another miracle in his story-book comeback?
 
  
AGE, RECORD, AND STATS
 
Alvarez:                    Age:  28 years old
                                    Record:  51-1-2 (35 Knockouts)
                                    Height:  5’9”
                                    Weight:  167   * * Weight for last bout (12-15-18)
                                    Reach:  70”
 
 
Jacobs:                    Age:  32 years old
                                    Record:  35-2 (29 Knockouts)
                                    Height:  5’11”
                                    Weight:  159   * * Weight for last bout (10-27-18)
                                    Reach:  73”
 
 
RING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
 
Alvarez:       
                                    WBC Junior Middleweight Champion (’11-’13)
                                    WBA Junior Middleweight Champion (‘13)
                                    Ring Magazine Junior Middleweight Champion (’13)
                                    WBC Middleweight Champion (’15-Pres)
                                    WBA Middleweight Champion (’18-Pres)
                                    Ring Magazine Middleweight Champion (’18-Pres)
                                    WBA Super Middleweight Champion (’18-Pres)
                                    Ring Magazine Pound-4-Pound #3 Boxer
 
 
Jacobs:                   
WBA Middleweight Champion (’14-‘17)
IBF Middleweight Champion (’18-‘Pres)
 
STYLE
 
Alvarez: 
An aggressive, physical fighter with underrated boxing skills, Alvarez often wears opponents down with consistent pressure and heavy-handed punches.  Will use feints and counters to throw is opponent’s timing off and create openings for a strength-sapping body attack.  Carries fight-changing power in both hands but sometimes doesn’t throw enough punches.  While he is most known for his offensive skills, Alvarez has decent, but not great, defensive skills slipping and blocking punches.
 
Jacobs:          
A lanky, long-armed boxer with versatile skills who often fights aggressively and is not afraid to exchange punches.  Jacobs couples good boxing skills and fundamentals with knockout power in both hands.  Will sometimes be too offensive-minded and is susceptible to counter punches.  Shows tremendous heart in the face of adversity.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
STRENGTHS
 
Alvarez:          
* Power – Alvarez carries thunder in both fists.  He has knockout power in either hand, but his most devastating weapon resides in his left hook, especially to the body.  He has three knockout-of-the-year candidates in his career.
           
* Strength – Alvarez is a physically-maturing and thickly-built fighter with uncanny strength.  He is effective in backing fighters up, even when not landing flush punches.  He has grown from junior-middleweight and has competed recently at super-middleweight.
 
* Experience – Alvarez has come a long way during his professional career and has competed against some of the biggest names in boxing.  He has been in this moment numerous times and the raucous atmosphere will be second nature to him.
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Character – Jacobs stood up to and defeated the most daunting adversary of his career when he overcame bone cancer in 2011.  His character shows in the ring as he has handled some difficult challenges in his career.
 
* Power – Jacobs has registered 29 of his 35 professional victories via stoppage.  He has the power to change the fight with one punch and the killer instinct to finish a wounded opponent.
 
 
* Versatile – Jacobs possesses good boxing skills and movement, sometimes switching between orthodox and southpaw stances.  If against another aggressive opponent, Jacobs will box on his back foot and seek counter-punching opportunities.  He is adept at accelerating the pace when needed.
 
 
 
 
WEAKNESSES
 
Alvarez:          
* Tactical Mistakes – Alvarez has made tactical mistakes in some previous fights, including trying to beat Floyd Mayweather Jr. by boxing with him on the outside.  In other fights, he has allowed his opponents to control the pace and steal rounds.
 
* Easy-to-Hit – While his offensive skill is his calling card, Alvarez has a decent defense.  When he loses focus or becomes overly aggressive, he is wide open for straight right hands and counter punches.    
 
* Heavy Feet – Alvarez has good boxing ability but is often slow-footed in the ring.  When matched against taller fighters with good lateral movement, he frequently struggles, as was the case in his bouts with Austin Trout and Erislandy Lara.
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Suspect Chin – Jacobs is no stranger to tasting the canvas.  He was knocked out in devastating fashion by Dmitry Pirog in his first professional loss.  He was also on the canvas against Gennady Golovkin and Sergio Mora.
 
* Reckless – In his first fight against Mora, Jacobs became overly aggressive after scoring a knockdown and left himself wide open for a counter punch that put him on the canvas.  He was also off-balance and reckless again when he had Peter Quillin stunned.
 
* Atmosphere – Jacobs has fought in Las Vegas before and main-evented in Madison Square Garden.  However, this is his first marquee Las Vegas Cinco-de-Mayo weekend extravaganza.
 
 
 
PREVIOUS BOUT
 
Alvarez:                    (12/15/18) – Alvarez made a successful super-middleweight debut by destroying the game but overmatched Rocky Fielding in three rounds.  Alvarez punished Fielding’s body, scoring four knockdowns, and finishing him with his signature left hook to the liver.
 
Jacobs:          
(10/27/18) – Jacobs had a tough encounter with undefeated but unknown Serhiy Derevianchenko, winning a 12-round split decision.  Jacobs scored a 1st-round knockdown and landed more punches during the back-and-forth contest.
 
 
 
3 BEST PERFORMANCES
 
Alvarez:          
* James Kirkland (5/9/15) – The fireworks were on display from the opening bell as Kirkland engaged Alvarez with a kamikaze attack.  Alvarez countered and scored a 1st-round knockdown and ended the fight in the 3rd round with a picturesque right hand.
 
* Liam Smith (9/17/16) – Alvarez methodically broke down the previously-undefeated Smith, controlling the bout from the beginning.  Alvarez scored knockdowns in the 7th and 8th rounds before ending the show with his left hook to the liver in the 9th round.
 
* Carlos Baldomir (9/18/10) – Alvarez was a 20-year-old prodigy facing a durable former world champion in Baldomir.  Alvarez was successful boxing early and using his advantages in speed and skill to sweep the first five rounds.  But it was his display in the 6th that was memorable.  Alvarez rocked Baldomir before finally dropping with a left hook, rendering him unconscious before he hit the mat and dealing him his only stoppage loss in a 16-year career.
 
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Sergio Mora (9/9/16) – Jacobs wiped away any controversy from their first fight, which ended with Mora injuring his ankle, by dissecting him in the rematch, culminating in an impressive 7th round TKO.  Jacobs scored a knockdown each in the 4th and 5th rounds before opening up and dropping Mora three times in the 7th round, forcing the stoppage.
                          
* Peter Quillin (12/5/15) – In a battle for Brooklyn Bragging Rights, Jacobs stunned the undefeated and favored Quillin with a 1st round TKO.  Jacobs landed a right hand early, sending Quilling staggering into the ropes.  A follow-up flurry sent Quillin across the ring where the referee stopped the fight.
 
* Caleb Truax (4/24/15) – Jacobs dominated Truax with a masterful performance over 11 rounds, controlling the action with a heavy jab, and wearing his game opponent down.  Comfortably ahead going into the final round, Jacobs unloaded on his weakened adversary until the referee saved him from further punishment.
 
 
 
 
KEYS TO VICTORY
 
Alvarez:          
* Start fast and don’t allow Jacobs to become confident
 
* Cut off the ring and force Jacobs to fight in confined spaces
 
* Go to the body early and often
 
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Use a stiff jab and lateral movement to keep Alvarez off balance
 
* Land something to get Alvarez’s respect early
 
* Do not get reckless
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
QUESTIONS
 
Alvarez:          
* Will the move back to middleweight drain Alvarez?
                          
* Is Alvarez overlooking Jacobs?
 
*  Will Alvarez become frustrated if Jacobs uses effective lateral movement?
 
 
Jacobs:          
* Can Jacobs win a decision in Las Vegas?
 
* Will Jacobs be able to exploit Alvarez’s tactical shortcomings?
 
* How will Jacobs handle the pro-Alvarez atmosphere?
 
                          
 
PENECALE PREDICTION
 
The crowd will be buzzing at the opening bell.  Alvarez will move forward, hands up, probing with his jab and trying to set his feet.  Jacobs will be moving laterally, pawing a tentative jab and using head feints.  The cautious 1st round will end with Alvarez stepping in and throwing a few hard body shots, causing the partisan crowd to erupt in cheers.
 
Alvarez will continue to apply pressure in the 2nd and 3rd rounds with Jacobs working to establish his jab with more authority.  Jacobs will land a few heavy jabs to the face with Alvarez countering with right hands over the top.  Jacobs will step to his left to avoid Alvarez’s left hook to the body.
 
The action will continue to intensify through the middle rounds.  Jacobs will be following his jab with a straight right hand.  Alvarez will be crouching and using his strength on the inside, using overhand rights and hooks to the arms and ribs.
 
Alvarez will sport some redness around his eyes and Jacobs will show welts across his torso.  The pro-Alvarez crowd will gasp as Jacobs lands a series of hard right hands in the 6th round but will then erupt in the 7th when an exchange of left hooks sees Alvarez land first, sending Jacobs sprawling back to the canvas.
 
Jacobs will rise and affirm to referee Tony Weeks that he is okay to continue.  Alvarez will attack, throwing his left hook to the body and head.  Jacobs will stagger back, set his feet, and respond with a right hand and wild left hook.  Alvarez will land a counter left hook to the head and Jacobs will clinch, with the bell ending the round.
 
The crowd will be wild with anticipation going into the 8th round, sensing the Alvarez might be closing in on victory.  Jacobs will use lateral movement while he clears his head, probing with his jab to keep Alvarez at bay.  Alvarez will continue to look for the homerun punch, but Jacobs will stay out of range for the duration.
 
Throughout the 9th and 10th rounds, Jacobs will be sufficiently recovered and willing to engage Alvarez, throwing more right hands, and increasing the tempo.  Alvarez will land a series of thudding hooks to the body and Jacobs will counter with uppercuts on the inside. 
 
The 11th round will continue the intense action with both fighters having their moments.  Alvarez will become inactive for stretches of the round, allowing Jacobs to again control the pace.
 
Going into the final round, Jacobs will know that he is in danger with the bout being so close.  He will initiate the pressure on Alvarez and there will be some toe-to-toe exchanges.  As Alvarez takes a deep breath, Jacobs will successfully back him on his heels with a jab, followed by a straight-right hand.  Alvarez will roll with the punch and counter with his own right hand.  The crowd will be on its feet as the fighters exchange punches and embrace the final bell.
 
The decision will be unanimous with Dave Moretti and Glenn Feldman both scoring 115-112 and Steve Weisfeld with a wider margin of 117-110, all in favor of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.

Below you can access this week’s radio show where Tony , “Psychic” Tom Padgett and “Rabble Rousin'” Rich Bergeron discuss the fight.


Listen to “Canelo vs. Jacobs Preview, Lesnar Retires from MMA, MacDonald questions will to keep hurting people after Fitch Draw” on Spreaker. 

boxing, Las Vegas

BOXING ICON AND 8-TIME WORLD CHAMPION THOMAS HEARNS CONFIRMED FOR 5TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO, DURING CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4, IN LAS VEGAS

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Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Las Vegas (May 1, 2019) – Boxing Icon &Eight-time world champion Thomas Hearns hasconfirmed that he will appear, have a booth and hold a meet and greet with his fans at the fifth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2019 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.The Expo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., during Cinco De Mayo weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Danny Jacobs, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite – http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

Hearns will make his 4th appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos,personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this Boxing Living Legend also known as “The Hitman”.


Hearns joins Roy Jones Jr., Mayweather Promotions, Anthony Dirrell, WBA, Julio Cesar Chavez, Riddick Bowe, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr., Marco Antonio Barrera, Mia St,John, Juan Manuel Marquez, Vinny Paz, Devin Haney, Earnie Shavers, Al Bernstein, Michael Spinks, WBC, Erik Morales, James Toney and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.


About Thomas Hearns
Hearns more famously known as “The Hitman”, became the first boxer in history to win world titles in four divisions. He would also become the first fighter in history to win five world titles in five different divisions. Hearns was named Ring Magazine fighter of the year in 1980 and 1984 and is best known for his fights with Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler and Roberto Duran. He was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012.


About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and-greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF“. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo! 

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last four Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Roy Jones Jr., Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, Errol Spence Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Pazienza, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Abner Mares, Jorge Linares, Brandon Rios and many more…


Exhibitors include: boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry.


Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at: 
https://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com


Throughout the next several days leading up to the event, there will be more updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:


Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

For More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

boxing, Las Vegas

4-TIME WORLD CHAMPION ABNER MARES CONFIRMED FOR 5TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO DURING CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4, IN LAS VEGAS

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Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Las Vegas (August 29, 2019) – Boxing’s Four-Time World Champion Abner Mares has confirmed that he will appear and hold a meet and greet with his fans at the fifth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2019 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.The Expo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., during Cinco De Mayo weekend.The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Danny Jacobs, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.


Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite – http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

Mares will make his third appearance at this years’ Expo, where he will be selling his own branded Team Mares merchandise, signing gloves and taking photos with fans. Mares is a commentator on Telemundo’s “Boxeo Telemundo” series and a co-host of FOX and FS1’s “Inside PBC Boxing.”


Mares joins Roy Jones Jr., Mayweather Promotions, Anthony Dirrell, WBA, Julio Cesar Chavez, Riddick Bowe, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr., Marco Antonio Barrera, Juan Manuel Marquez, Vinny Paz, Devin Haney, Earnie Shavers, Al Bernstein, Michael Spinks, WBC, Erik Morales, James Toney and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.


About Abner Mares
Mares was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and immigrated to the U.S. at age 7. Having been raised in both Los Angeles and Mexico. Mares is a Mexican-American professional boxer who formerly held the WBA (Regular) Featherweight Championship Title. Mares is a four-time world champion in three weight classes. Some of Mares most notable and exciting fights were against top level fighters, such as Vic Darchinyan, Joseph Agbeko, Anselmo Moreno, Daniel Ponce De Leon, Jhonny Gonzalez, Leo Santa Cruz and Jesus Cuellar from whom he won the WBA title on December 10 th, 2016. He is presently the co-host of FOX and FS1 “Inside PBC Boxing” and Telemundo’s “Boxeo Telemundo.”


About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and-greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF“. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo! 

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last four Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Roy Jones Jr., Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, Errol Spence Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Pazienza, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Abner Mares, Jorge Linares, Brandon Rios and many more…


Exhibitors include: boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry.


Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at: 
https://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com


Throughout the next several days leading up to the event, there will be more updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:


Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

For More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo
boxing, Las Vegas, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ROBERT EASTER JR. AND RANCES BARTHELEMY FIGHT TO A SPLIT-DRAW IN MATCHUP FOR WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME ® FROM THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS

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Viktor Postol Outclasses Mohamed Mimoune In WBC Super Lightweight Eliminator & Efe Ajagba Knocks Out Michael Wallisch In Co-Featured Bouts
 
Catch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 p.m. ET/PT
On SHOWTIME EXTREME®
 
Click HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/PBC
 
Click HERE for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/
Mayweather Promotions
 
LAS VEGAS – April 27, 2019 – Robert Easter Jr. and Rances Barthelemy fought to a split-draw in their matchup for the vacant WBA Lightweight World Title Saturday on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
 
The challenging fight to score was ruled 115-113 Barthelemy, 115-113 Easter and 114-114. The WBA 135-pound title remains vacant following the split decision.
 
With both former world champions needing a win in a crossroads affair, neither fighter was able to pull the trigger in a matchup of talented counterpunchers. The tall, rangy lightweights competed on the outside for much of the 12-round bout, and while both relied on their reach to keep their opponent at bay, they failed to land many effective shots from the outside.
 
The switch-hitting Cuban Barthelemy (27-1-1, 14 KOs), who fought defensively for most of the fight, transitioned to mostly southpaw in the third. The former two-division world champion’s most effective punches appeared to be body shots from the southpaw stance, while Easter (21-1-1, 14 KOs) was at his best when he countered with his right.
 
As the 12-round affair progressed, the corners of both fighters – Robert Easter Sr. and former Cuban champion Joel Casamayor – pleaded with their pugilists to increase their output to little avail. Neither fighter landed 10 punches in any round, and while Easter was slightly more active they combined to throw just 743 punches. They combined to land just 106 total punches.
 
“I feel I did enough to win this fight but the judges saw it differently,” said Easter, who was fighting for the first time since losing to pound-for-pound great Mikey Garcia in a unification last summer. “They saw it a different way. Rances is a crafty fighter, an elusive fighter. I tried to take the fight to him but he wouldn’t take it. It was hard to land my shots.”
 
Barthelemy, who was returning to lightweight after losing a rematch to Kiryl Relikh in his bid to become Cuba’s first three-division world champion, was frustrated with the decision.
 
“Robert was absent in the ring tonight,” Barthelemy said. “I wanted him to land his right and he didn’t. I wanted him to come forward and he didn’t. We were prepared for a different Robert Easter – the one that attacks – but he didn’t show up so I couldn’t deliver my strategy.
 
“I landed the cleaner and more accurate shots. I feel I threw more punches. I was the busier fighter. I won the fight. I think this was a missed opportunity for me. I really feel I won this fight.”
 
Former 140-pound world champion Viktor Postol outclassed Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Eliminator, winning via unanimous decision 98-92, 97-93, 99-91 in the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION co-feature.
 
Postol fought off a stiff jab and utilized his reach advantage to keep the fight at range. The Ukrainian, who was working with Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, was the more active fighter from bell to bell, throwing 587 punches compared to just 306 for the French Mimoune. While Mimoune was elusive and able to slip many of Postol’s power shots, he never left himself in a position to effectively counter his taller and more aggressive opponent. The southpaw Mimoune (21-3, 2 KOs) averaged just 30 punches per round and was off balance for much of the fight, throwing wide looping shots that rarely landed.
 
After the fight, Postol attributed his victory with being able to remain disciplined and stick to the game plan of Roach.
 
“I always try to be disciplined,” Postol said. “I did well tonight. My opponent’s style was a little awkward, but I did okay. If I could fight a guy like (Terence) Crawford, I can handle Mimoune. And I did.”
 
After the fight, Postol, who’s only losses came against top fighters Terence Crawford and Josh Taylor, promised to chase the elite of the 140-pound class.
 
“I want the next big fight,” Postol said. “Doesn’t matter who – WBC Champion Jose Ramirez would be a great choice. I was away for two years so I was a little bit worried before, but now I feel like I’m back. I’m 100 percent back and ready for the next test.”


Hall of Famer Steve Farhood, who served as unofficial ringside scorer for the SHOWTIME telecast, gave Postol all 10 of the rounds in the WBC Eliminator.
 
In the opening bout of the telecast, fast-rising heavyweight Efe Ajagba added another knockout to his resume with a second-round TKO of previously once-beaten Michael Wallisch.
 
Ajagba (10-0, 9 KOs) was aggressive from the outset, throwing nearly 100 punches in the opening round. Utilizing a steady diet of 1-2 combos, Ajagba landed at will in the second against Wallisch, who fought behind a high guard but couldn’t prevent the Nigerian’s power shots from landing. After eating a series of combos in the second, Wallisch (19-2, 12 KOs) took a knee and was given time to recover after Ajagba appeared to throw and land a punch with his opponent on his knee. Wallisch got back up but was defenseless against Ajagba’s onslaught, forcing referee Tony Weeks to step in to stop the contest at 1:40.
 
“I took my time in there, I used my jab a lot and it worked,” said Agjaba, who landed 43 percent of his power shots. “When I shot my right hand and he took it, I decided to keep unloading. I kept throwing combinations and I knew I was hurting him so I kept doing it.
 
“I’m happy to be training with Ronnie (Shields). He is one of the best trainers in the world. He helped me with my jab and he’s helping me develop as a fighter.”
 
Said trainer Ronnie Shields: “I think we still have a lot to learn. You saw he’s a busy guy and for a big guy to throw 93 punches in the first round, it’s a lot. He may be about a year away to becoming a contender. He will get there.”
 
Tonight’s live event was promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions.
 
An encore presentation of the tripleheader will air Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available via the network’s On Demand platforms. 
 
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ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, 
followon Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions/ andwww.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Las Vegas, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RANCES BARTHELEMY & MOHAMED MIMOUNE LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Former Two-Division World Champion Barthelemy Takes on Robert Easter Jr. for WBA Lightweight Title This Saturday, April 27 Live on SHOWTIME® from The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/
Mayweather Promotions
 
LAS VEGAS (April 23, 2019) – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy and France’s Mohamed Mimoune continued preparations for their respective showdowns at a media workout in Las Vegas Tuesday before they step into the ring this Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
Barthelemy faces off against former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. for the vacant WBA Lightweight title in the main event, while Mimoune takes on former champion Viktor Postol in a WBC 140-pound title eliminator as part of the action live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.
 
Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday from Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas:
 
RANCES BARTHELEMY
 
“The key thing for me to get back to the top, is to get back to my roots. It’s about using what made me a champion and getting back to that. We’ve gone back to our Cuban roots in training with Joel Casamayor and left any distractions behind. You’ll see all of that in my performance on Saturday night.
 
“Easter and myself are both on the road to redemption coming off of our first defeats. I expect the same Robert Easter Jr. that I’ve seen on tape. He comes forward and tries to fight it out. There’s nothing overly impressive about him to me.
 
“I’m ready for whatever Robert Easter Jr. wants. If he wants a war, we’ll have a war. Everyone knows I’ve never backed down, but I’m going to win this fight with the intelligence that made me a world champion.
 
“Casamayor comes from the same streets as me, he knows my style, how I think and how I need to work. We identify with one another a lot so we don’t have to confront each other. With a simple look, I know what he’s trying to tell me. Between him and my brother, Yan, I feel blessed to have two Olympians in my corner.
 
“To the Cuban people, this will be my best fight and and a strong performance for the Cuban boxing community. I’m going to focus and work hard like us Cubans always have since we were born. I had to grow up through hardships and I’ve worked to show that anything is possible coming from Cuba.”
 
MOHAMED MIMOUNE
 
“Postol is one of the best that I will face but I am not afraid. I am confident I will win. I’ve studied him together with my coach and we have a strategy in place that you will see on Saturday.
 
“I’m very excited for this opportunity. It is every boxer’s dream to fight in Las Vegas and I am happy and ready to show the Americans what I have.
 
“I have no issues with Postol’s height advantage. I am prepared for it. It is not my first time facing off against a boxer that is taller than me. I have a very good reach as well, but it is my speed that will beat him.
 
“I have worked very hard after my losses and put all my effort into bettering my performance. I’m stronger and more mature now than ever. I know I have to win and I will win.
 
I’m looking forward to the opportunity to fight for the world title after I win on Saturday night. I’m dedicating this fight too all French people and I hope they make sure to not miss it on Saturday.”
 
JOEL CASAMAYOR, Barthelemy’s Trainer


“We’ve been training since mid-February for this fight. It’s been a long three months in the gym together. I see a different Rances. He’s fighting smarter and he’s gotten back to his Cuban roots. That’s what made him a two-time world champion.
 
“It’s hard to predict, but if it were up to me of course I’d say Rances will win by knockout. From what I’ve seen in training camp, Rances is going to put on a great performance Saturday night. He knows what he has to do.
 
“We have a great connection throughout camp. I just have to look into his eyes and I feel like I know what he’s going to bring. All the hard work has been done and he’s 100 percent ready for Saturday night.”
 
MEHDI OUMIHA, Mimoune’s Trainer
 
“Mohamed Mimoune is an improved fighter who’s shown a lot of new and different skills in training. We have the right tactics to earn this victory on Saturday.
 
“We are prepared for what Postol can bring, but we’re focused on Mohamed Mimoune being at his best. Everything I have seen in training camp makes me very confident that we’re going to win Saturday and go on to fight for the title.”
 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
 
“Rances has a tremendous amount of experience. If you look at his earlier fights before he became champion and during his championship runs, he’s fought on the big stage time and time again.
 
“I think Rances’ experience will help in a fight like this, but Robert Easter Jr. has also been in big fights. They both bring a lot of background in exciting, high-quality fights. You have two fighters with something to prove looking to do just that live on SHOWTIME Saturday night.”


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ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing,
 www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions/ and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing

BOXING LEGEND AND 4 DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ROY JONES JR. CONFIRMED FOR 5TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO DURING CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4, IN LAS VEGAS

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Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Las Vegas (April 23, 2019) – Boxing legend & four division world champion Roy Jones Jr. has confirmed that he will appear, have a booth and hold a meet and greet with his fans at the fifth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2019 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Expo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., during Cinco De Mayo weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Danny Jacobs, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.


Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite – 
http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

Jones will make his 2nd appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos,personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this Boxing living legend, considered by many as one of the greatest Pound for Pound, and best Boxer of all time.


Jones joins Mayweather Promotions, Anthony Dirrell, WBA, Julio Cesar Chavez, RiddickBowe, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr., Marco Antonio Barrera, Mia St,John, Juan Manuel Marquez, Vinny Paz, Devin Haney, Earnie Shavers, Al Bernstein, Michael Spinks, WBC, Erik Morales, James Toney and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.





About Roy Jones Jr.
Roy Jones Jr. is an American professional boxer who has captured numerous championships in the Middleweight, Super middleweight, Light heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions. He is the only boxer in history to start his career as a junior middleweight, and go on to win a heavyweight title. He is also noted for holding the WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO, NABF, WBF, and IBA light heavyweight championships; a record seven belts at the same time. Jones left his mark in boxing history when he won the WBA heavyweight title, becoming the first former middleweight champion to win a Heavyweight title in 106 years. As of February 2018, Jones holds the record for the most wins in unified light heavyweight title bouts in boxing history, at twelve. The Ring magazine named Jones the Fighter of the Year in 1994, and the World Boxing Hall of Fame named him the Fighter of the Year for 2003. He is also a three-time winner of the Best Boxer ESPY Award (1996, 2000, and 2003). Jones was named “Fighter of the Decade” for the 1990s by the Boxing Writers Association of America.


About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and-greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo! 

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last four Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Roy Jones Jr., Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, Errol Spence Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Pazienza, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Abner Mares, Jorge Linares, Brandon Rios and many more…
Exhibitors include: boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry.


Throughout the next few days leading up to the event, there will be more updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth,

boxing, Las Vegas, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RANCES BARTHELEMY TRAINING CAMP QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Former Two-Division World Champion Faces Former Champion Robert Easter Jr. for WBA Lightweight Title Saturday, April 27 Live on SHOWTIME® from The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

Click HERE for Photos from Irving Quinonez/Damian Vasquez –
Team Barthelemy

LAS VEGAS (April 16, 2019) – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy discussed changes to his training camp as he nears a vacant WBA Lightweight Title showdown with former lightweight champion Robert Easter Jr. taking place Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
Coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain undefeated against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased atwww.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.
 
After losing for the first time in his pro career in a 140-pound title fight against Kiryl Relikh last March, Barthelemy rebounded to stop Robert Frankel in December as he prepared to return to the lightweight division to face Easter. Since the loss to Relikh, Barthelemy made fellow Cuban and former world champion Joel Casamayor head trainer as he looks to return to the championship ranks.
 
Here is what Barthelemy had to say from training camp at Prince Ranch Bones Adams Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:
 
How has training camp gone so far?
 
“Everything has been going well under the guidance of Joel Casamayor and the assistance of my brother Yan Barthelemy and Oscar Vasquez. We have been training twice a day and sparring three to four times a week against solid guys like former world champion and ex-opponent Mickey Bey. Like they say, ‘iron sharpens iron’ and the quality of sparring has been tremendous help in getting me ready for April 27. I feel better prepared both mentally and physically than I did in my most recent fights.”


What do you make of Robert Easter Jr. and what do you know about him?
 
“I have seen various Robert Easter Jr fights and have been studying him very closely. He’s a great boxer who likes to use his height and reach to his advantage. He’s an ex-world champion who has fought quality opponents. He deserves all of my respect but we are very confident that we will be victorious against him.”
 
Do you feel you have been able to rebound from your first career defeat?
 
“Most definitely, I have been able to move on and use that defeat as a lesson in my career. They say sometimes we learn more in defeat than we do in victories and that was the case in that fight.
 
“Sometimes we do not see clearly when we are winning. Bad habits or little details that need correction are overlooked when you are winning. Sometimes we do not even see them. I feel rejuvenated and we have made many important changes that were necessary for my career. You will see on April 27 that there is still much more left from Team Barthelemy.”


What would it mean to become a champion again on April 27? 
 
“We have no doubt that we’ll become champion again for a third time on April 27. This will bring my name back at the top of the sport with many potential big fights to be made. It will mean so much more to me because Cuban boxing has currently gone through a rough patch and this victory will allow Cuba to have a champion once again.”
 
Any final message to your fans before your fight?
 
“Please make sure to tune in on April 27. This fight will be very competitive, with two evenly-skilled former world champions looking to reclaim their status at the top of the sport. Fights like this are what make boxing great. Cuba will have a champion once again on April 27!”


 
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, 
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo,@TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, andwww.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.
boxing, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions

THREE UNDEFEATED MAYWEATHER PROMOTIONS PROSPECTS TO HEADLINE FRIDAY, APRIL 5 SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TRIPLEHEADER

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Angelo Leo, Xavier Martinez And Andres Cortes Featured In Separate Bouts Live on SHOWTIME From Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas


 
Tickets Are On Sale NOW


 
LAS VEGAS – March 13, 2019 – Three undefeated prospects will make their ShoBox: The New Generation debut as super bantamweight Angelo Leo and super featherweights Xavier Martinez and Andres Cortes compete in separate bouts on a Mayweather Promotions card live on SHOWTIME Friday, April 5 (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.

 
Top 122-pound prospect Leo (16-0, 8 KOs) will square off against Filipino Neil Tabanao (17-4, 11 KOs) in a 10-round bout in the ShoBox main event, while super featherweight Martinez (13-0, 9 KOs) will take on John Moralde (21-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round co-featured attraction. In the telecast opener, Las Vegas prospect Cortes (10-0, 6 KOs) will face Baltimore’s Jahmal Dyer (9-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight bout.


 
Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown are priced at $25, $50 and $75 and can be purchased by visiting: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/
.


 
“Mayweather Promotions is excited to bring the Sin City Showdown back this year, as it is home to a roster of talented prospects,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “The card features three of our young talented undefeated prospects Angelo Leo, Xavier Martinez, and Andres Cortes making their television debuts. It’s exciting to see these guys climb the ranks, as they look to take their careers to the next level. Each one of them will be facing tough competition on fight night. I expect nothing but fireworks.”


 
“We have three unbeaten and untested prospects ready for the next step of their careers in Angelo Leo, Xavier Martinez and Andres Cortes,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer, Senior Vice President, Production, Showtime Networks Inc. “ShoBox is all about introducing and developing new talent. It’s about pushing young prospects outside of their comfort zone, matching them tough and discovering the next generation of champions in the process. I look forward to see whether or not Leo, Martinez and Cortes will rise to the occasion.”


 
Originally from New Mexico and currently residing in Las Vegas, Leo, 24, recorded a unanimous decision over Alberto Torres in his 2019 debut on the non-televised undercard of Gervonta Davis vs. Hugo Ruiz. Leo, who started boxing when he was eight, amassed a notable amateur resume, winning the state Golden Gloves and Jr. Golden Gloves Championships before turning pro at 18. Leo debuted under the Mayweather Promotions banner in November of 2017 with a fourth-round knockout of Dominican Republic’s Yasmaly Basilio Peguero-Nieves.


 
“This fight came to me at the perfect time,” said Leo, who has fought four of his last six bouts at Sam’s Town Live. “I’m in great condition coming off my recent fight last month. I think Tabanao is good fighter and a good counter-puncher. He fought good competition and he went the distance with a former world champion, so I know I have a tough fight ahead. He is a dangerous fighter but I have a solid plan. I have a unique style and I think I bring a lot to the table with my speed, angles and body shots. Fans should expect an exciting fight on April 5.”


 
Tabanao, 24, made his pro debut in 2012 in his home country of the Philippines. He will make his United States debut next month as he looks to move up the super bantamweight ranks. Tabanao won the WBO Oriental Featherweight Title in 2016 with a third-round technical knockout of Ibrahim Balla. In his next fight, Tabanao lost the belt when he dropped a unanimous decision to Isaac Dogboe, who would go on to become the WBO Super Bantamweight World Champion. Tabanao suffered two consecutive defeats after losing to Dogboe but has admirably rebounded by winning his last four bouts.


 
“My trainer Sonny Dollente is working hard to prepare me for this fight,” said Tabanao. “We know this is our first fight in the States and TV debut, so we are working especially hard to put on a great performance and we thank Mayweather Promotions for this opportunity. Angelo Leo is a good fighter but we have a good strategy. It has always been my dream to represent The Philippines and to be known as a great boxer. This fight will bring me one step closer to my dream.”


 
Martinez, of Sacramento, Calif., is best known for his crafty and powerful fighting style and is regarded by many as a prospect to watch. After losing his first two amateur fights, he amassed a record of 88-10. He won the Jr. Golden Gloves in 2010, competed in the 2012 and 2013 Nationals Championships and was ranked No. 3 amateur in the country in 2013. He turned pro in Mexico at 17 and joined the Mayweather Promotions team in late 2016 with a unanimous decision win over Wilfredo Garriga at Sam’s Town Live. He’s coming off five straight knockout victories, with his most recent being an impressive fifth-round knockout against Deivi Julio Bassa on February 9. Martinez is looking for a statement victory over Moralde to assert his pedigree in the 130-pound division.

                              
                              
                              
                              
                      

“It feels great to get back in the ring,” said Martinez. “I’m happy Mayweather Promotions found another great matchup for me, and on national television. Now it’s time for me to do my part as a fighter by training hard and getting the win. I came in to training camp with a fresh mindset and ready to go to war. I’m ready for whatever Moralde brings to the table. I don’t know much about him other than he has the guts to fight me. I heard two opponents said, ’No,’ to this fight because they didn’t want to face me.”


 
Moralde, who made his pro debut in 2011 as a 17-year-old, will see his toughest test to date when he meets rising star Martinez. Hailing from Davao del Sur in the Philippines, Moralde, who is 2-2 in his last four fights, is looking to redeem himself in this pivotal matchup. His U.S. debut in 2017 didn’t go as planned as he was handed the first loss of his career at the hands of Toka Khan Clary. He rebounded quickly against Ismail Muwendo but lost by decision against Jamel Herring in his next fight. He scored a second-round knockout victory over Elmer Colve in his last outing.

“It feels great to have another opportunity to put my skills on display for the world to see on national TV,” said Moralde. “I’m up against a tough fighter; we both have a tough fight ahead. I have to make a statement. This is the fight that will get me where I want to go. I want to fight the toughest and I’m ready to face anyone they put in front of me.”

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Cortes, 22, fell in love with the sweet science at an early age as he watched his brother Luis at the gym. He started training at Elite Boxing Gym when he was six, alongside Juan Heraldez and Andrew Tabiti, who would later become his Mayweather Promotions stablemates. He had a reported record of 130-20 as an amateur and turned pro in 2016. He caught the attention of Floyd Mayweather while sparring with lightweight champion Gervonta Davis. Cortes joined Mayweather Promotions soon after. He has won four of his last six fights by knockout including his last outing against Eder Amaro Fajardo on January 17. With a win, Cortes will be one step closer to becoming a legitimate contender.


 
“I’ve only taken off one week from the gym since my last fight in January,” said Cortes. “I feel great. I’m 100 percent prepared for whatever my opponent brings my way. I’ve been working on my power and my strength with my conditioning coach and overall development as a fighter. I’m ready for my next challenge.”


 
Baltimore’s Dyer, 27, picked up boxing at 19 and after a brief amateur career turned pro in March of 2017. He scored an impressive 22-second first-round knockout of Dwayne Martin in just his third professional bout. He was named 2017 Rookie of the Year by Boxing Along the Beltway, a Washington, D.C. boxing publication, and has won five fights in a row, most recently against promising undefeated prospect Carlos Dixon.


 
“I’m coming fresh off a fight so I’m still in great shape,” said Dyer. “Andres Cortes is a good fighter, but I’m a better fighter. I’m training to go a full eight rounds, but if I find an opportunity before then, I’m going to take it. I’ve been waiting for a chance to show the world how good of a fighter I am, and this is it. This is my time to show the world who I am.”


 
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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports
, www.mayweatherpromotions.com
, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @MayweatherPromotions, @mayweathersports and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports
 and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions



 

 
About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 79 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.