Tag Archives: Malik Hawkins

SERGEY LIPINETS: “WE NEVER MISSED A BEAT IN PREPARATION, EVEN WITH OPPONENT CHANGE”

Former World Champion Lipinets Battles Unbeaten
Custio Clayton for Interim IBF Welterweight Title
 Live on SHOWTIME® Saturday, October 24 Headlining a
 Premier Boxing Champions Event
 
NEW YORK (October 20, 2020) – Even with a change in date and then opponent, former world champion Sergey Lipinets remains supremely confident in his training camp and overall preparations as he prepares to take on unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 24 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
“We never missed a beat in preparation, even with the opponent change,” said Lipinets. “My fight with Kudratillo Abdukakhorov was on and off for so long that I already had an idea that he was going to be forced to back out, so I wasn’t shocked. I don’t really care, though. Whoever I have to fight I’m ready to fight, so I didn’t consider backing out of fighting for even one second.”
 
Lipinets credits his trainer, the renowned Joe Goossen, for helping his fighter mentally through the changes, in addition to the physical training they have undertook heading into the fight.
 
“Having Joe Goossen is like having a psychiatrist as well as a trainer,” said Lipinets. “He’s been extremely helpful about how to approach all of this. Joe helped me stay calm and understand that something good can always come from a bad or difficult situation, and because of that, I never lost focus.”
 
Clayton is a Canadian Olympian with an unblemished pro resume heading into this showdown. While Lipinets notes that there are differences in the fighting styles between Abdukakhorov and Clayton, none of it changes his intent on October 24.
 
“I know that Clayton has a great amateur background,” said Lipinets. “I’ve checked out his style, and the main difference is that Abdukakhorov is more active and Clayton is more accurate. Abdukakhorov is also a little more aggressive and Clayton is more patient.

“I don’t think one is tougher or easier than the other. I think that anyone fighting at this level is a difficult opponent. Abdukakhorov moves around more and can be more awkward with the different styles he uses. Both are very tough guys, but I’m ready for Clayton and focused only on him at this point.”
 
Despite his sole focus on Clayton, Lipinets knows that this fight brings a big opportunity to make a loud proclamation to the rest of the stacked welterweight division with a big performance to capture the interim IBF title.
 
“I’m prepared to make one statement – I belong here,” said Lipinets. “I want to fight the best. I want to make my imprint on this sport and build my legacy. I’ve had to do it the hard way, but I’m not complaining. I fought for my first championship in just my 13th pro fight. I believe that I belong right there at the top of this sport. People need to start mentioning my name with the top guys and after this fight they’ll have to. You can’t look past me anymore.”
 
# # #
ABOUT LIPINETS VS. CLAYTON
Lipinets vs. Clayton will see former world champion Sergey Lipinets face unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
 
The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated contender Xavier Martínez battle hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins will duel knockout artist Subriel Matías in a 10-round showdown to kick off the televised action.
 
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.
 
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
 

Keith “The Bounty” Hunter Recovered from Hand Injury Ready to Face Top Contenders

LAS VEGAS, NV (May 15, 2020) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated super lightweight contender, Keith “The Bounty” Hunter (12-0, 7 KOs), has fully recovered from a hand injury suffered in his last fight with Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (12-3-1, 6 KOs), a 10-round bout that headlined on ShoBox back in February of this year. 


Hunter, a Las Vegas native, is eager to face all top contenders when boxing returns. The super lightweight contender is currently ranked #13 by the WBA, meaning his shot at the top of the division is coming soon.
 
“I am ready to face the best in the division and I feel even better since my hand has fully healed with this time off,” explained Hunter, who ready to prove himself once again. “I was supposed to fight Shonjahon Ergashev and Malik Hawkins, so I’d like to fight them first, but honestly, a fight with any of the world champions is a challenge I’m ready for now. I willing and ready to face the best!”
 
Hunter, who is managed by Greg Hannley, is staying ready as he awaits a phone call that boxing is back.


“Keith Hunter is ready for his shot at the best in the division,” said manager Greg Hannley, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “Keith has defeated two fighters signed by Mayweather Promotions in his last three consecutive bouts. He is getting national attention and his ranking in the WBA gets him closer to a world title shot. Now is Keith Hunter’s time.”
 
“I just know that I am gifted and want to win a world title to further my father’s legacy,” Hunter continued. “I am so focused, I just want to bring great entertainment to people who are in need of things to do, and if I can fight for a title, that’d even be better.”


Keith Hunter is promoted by Greg Cohen, founder, and CEO of Greg Cohen Promotions.

UNDEFEATED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT KEITH HUNTER TRAINING CAMP NOTES AHEAD OF SHOBOX MAIN EVENT

Hunter Faces Fellow Unbeaten Malik Hawkins in Main Event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, February 28 Live On SHOWTIME®

Click HERE for Hunter Photos; Credit: Team Prince Ranch Boxing


 
LAS VEGAS – February 19, 2020 – Undefeated super lightweight sensation and Las Vegas native, Keith “The Bounty” Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs), talks about training camp in advance of his upcoming showdown against fellow undefeated prospect Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.


 
In the co-main event, 2016 Olympian and undefeated super lightweight prospect Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) takes on Rhode Island’s Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5KOs) in a 10-round bout and once-beaten Las Vegas native Kevin Newman II (11-1-1, 6 KOs) faces Albania’s Genc Pllana (7-1-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight matchup that opens the telecast.

 

Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown start at $25 and can be purchased at: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.

 

Hunter, 27, returns to Sam’s Town Live after an impressive 2019, in which he won a decisive 10-round unanimous decision against Cameron Krael and scored an upset victory over former amateur standout Sanjarbek Rakhmanov. He comes from a family of fighters, he’s the younger brother of heavyweight contender Michael Hunter and his father was a well-respected boxer who sparred with Mike Tyson. Hunter has spent the entirety of his training camp at Prince Ranch Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, where he trains alongside undefeated welterweight Blair Cobbs.


 
Here is what Hunter had to say about his recent training camp and upcoming battle with Hawkins:


 
On his opponent…


 
“This is my time to shine. Hawkins is a good fighter, he is talented, but he stands in my way. I am not just fighting for myself, but for my family. If you look at my record, I’ve fought some very tough guys.  I know I’m battle ready to take my career to the next level. Hawkins is going down. I am going to make people respect the Hunter name once again


 
“I have nothing bad to say about Malik Hawkins. He is a hard-working fighter. I just feel that I am better. This is my time, and no one can take this opportunity away from me.  The problem for Hawkins is, I have trained harder than ever to get the win. I am more focused than ever.”


 
On training camp…


 
“I wanted this camp to be very specific. I get good sparring at Bones Adams’ gym and a lot of top pros have come through there like Shakur Stevenson, Manny Pacquiao, and many others. I have watched how they trained, and I have used that same work ethic and principles for this camp with the supervision of my coaches.”


 
On his status as a contender…


 
“I’m now ranked 13 by the WBA, which makes me a contender. I must get past Hawkins, so believe me when I tell you I’m going to leave everything in the ring.  I’m looking at this fight like it’s a world title. Losing is not an option.”


 
On making his SHOWTIME debut…


 
“I am excited to headline on ShoBox: The New Generation. It’s a platform that launches fighters’ careers, and SHOWTIME has a fantastic and professional production crew. One goal from the beginning was to showcase my talent on a big stage like this, now I’m here.  This is a very big opportunity for me, I’m not going to let it slip away.”


 
Hunter is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing, advised by former two-time heavyweight world champion Hasim Rahman promoted by Greg Cohen, Founder and CEO of Greg Cohen Promotions.


 
# # #


 
For more information: visit www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com/events, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, and on Instagram @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, #SinCityShowdown and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, orwww.bit.ly/sincityshowdown.

 

RICHARDSON HITCHINS AND NICK DELOMBA DISCUSS TRAINING CAMP AHEAD OF SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MATCHUP ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Click HERE for Photos from Mayweather Promotions


 
LAS VEGAS – February 12, 2020 – Fast-rising super lightweight prospects Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) and Nick DeLomba(16-2, 5 KOs) open up about training camp ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation co-featured bout Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.


 
In the ShoBox main event, unbeaten Mayweather Promotions’ prospect Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11 KOs) will return for his second appearance on SHOWTIME as he goes toe-to-toe with undefeated Vegas native Keith Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout. The opening bout of the telecast will see Kevin “The Second Coming” Newman (11-1-1, 6 KOs) against an opponent to be announced in a 10-round super middleweight bout. The previously announced opponent, Kalvin Henderson, has withdrawn from the fight due to an injury.


 
Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown start at $25 and can be purchased at: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.


 
Hitchins, of Brooklyn, N.Y., returns for his second consecutive test on the prospect developmental series. In his last outing, he earned a unanimous decision over Kevin Johnson at Sam’s Town. Hitchins, a 22-year-old 2016 Haitian Olympian, has gained notoriety for having the skillset of a veteran with a gritty and slick style inside the ring. Hitchins has credited some of his boxing development to advice and pointers he has gotten from world champion Daniel Jacobs and Shakur Stevenson, and stablemate Gervonta Davis.


 
“Nice” DeLomba, fighting out of Cranston, R.I., is coming off a five-fight win streak with three out of five wins by knockout. He’s best known for his slickness and elusiveness in the ring and looks to make a powerful statement in foreign territory as he makes his Las Vegas and ShoBox debuts.


 
Here is what Hitchins and DeLomba had to say ahead of the February 28 match-up:


 
How has training camp been going in preparation for February 28?


 

Hitchins: “Camp is good, but I’m always in camp. There’s never a time when I’m not preparing and perfecting my craft, I’m really a student of the game. I know that I’m approaching that next level in my career, so I have to stay sharp and in the gym to perform at that next level.


 
“I’m headed to Colorado to finish training camp. It’s where the Olympic training center is, and it’s a place I’ve gone a couple of times to finish my camp. The air is better up there and that really helps me to get in better shape going into the fight.”


 
DeLomba: “Training camp is going wonderful. I’m getting everything I need to prepare for the fight: nutrition, meal plans, and strength and conditioning. I’ve added a new strength and conditioning coach and I’ve tweaked things to adjust to Hitchins’ style. I’m ready to go and I can’t wait for fight night.”


 

What is your game plan going into this fight?


 

Hitchins: “My game plan is the same for every fight. Stay composed and be the first to strike. I’m at a point in my career where the competition is getting tougher so the main thing for me is keeping my defense tight. My defense will keep me in good shape during the fights as the competition gets steep. But overall, I always have the mindset that I’m the better, smarter, and faster fighter.


 
“I surround myself with champions. That’s the only way to become one and this fight gets me one step closer.”



DeLomba: “I plan to go in and fight smart; stick to the game plan my team has for me and execute it well. My goal is to overcome whatever he tries to throw at me.”


 
What do you know about your opponent?


 

Hitchins: “I don’t know much. He’s who my team picked for me so I’m just going to get the job done and take him out. On fight night, I’ll have a clearer idea of how to get him out. I can adjust to anything.”



DeLomba: “I know my opponent has quick hands and likes to throw speedy shots. I’m completely focused on myself and my training. I believe in my abilities as a fighter. I’m not intimidated.”


 
What will a victory on February 28th do for your career going forward?


 

Hitchins: “Another win carries me to that next level. I’m hungry, I come from nothing, so I stay with a chip on my shoulder. I’m appreciative of my team, Mayweather Promotions, and to SHOWTIME for providing me with this opportunity to build my name in the sport and show the world what I can do.”


 
DeLomba: “A win over Hitchins will catapult me to that next level. It’s a televised bout and this will bring me the exposure I need to branch out and expose myself to a new audience. It will improve my career tremendously.”


 
# # #


 
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 81 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. 


 
For more information: visit www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com/events, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, and on Instagram @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, #SinCityShowdown and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, or www.bit.ly/sincityshowdown.

 

UNDEFEATED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MALIK HAWKINS TO FACE KEITH HUNTER FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TRIPLE-HEADER

Top Mayweather Promotions Prospects Hawkins, Richardson Hitchins, and Kevin Newman II Featured in Separate Bouts Live on SHOWTIME® From Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas


 

TICKETS ON SALE TOMORROW!


 
LAS VEGAS – January 30, 2020 – Undefeated super lightweight prospect Malik Hawkins returns to the ring to make his ShoBox: The New Generationseries debut as part of a three-fight telecast when he faces fellow undefeated Vegas native Keith Hunter in the main event that is scheduled for 10 rounds on Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.


 
Two other Mayweather Promotions’ top prospects will face tough challenges, as 2016 Olympian Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) and once-beaten Las Vegas native Kevin Newman II (11-1-1, 6 KOs) both return for their second ShoBox appearances fighting in separate bouts. Hitchins, the undefeated super lightweight prospect, will take on Rhode Island’s Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5KOs) in a 10-round bout, while Newman will seek his fifth consecutive victory when he steps in the ring with undefeated Kalvin Henderson (12-0-1, 8 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight bout.

 

Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown go on sale Friday, January 31 at 12 p.m. PT, start at $25 and can be purchased by visiting: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.


 
“As we kickstart another year, I’m confident that we will continue to exceed expectations and bring top tier events to the sports and entertainment world,” says Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Our first stop of the year is at our home venue for club shows and a stacked Friday night ShoBox card.  These prospects are looking to put on impressive performances to start their year off. They’re putting in the work to take their fight game to the next level, and on February 28 we will see them challenge themselves against tough opponents at Sam’s Town Live and live on SHOWTIME.”


 
Hawkins, (18-0, 11 KOs) known as “Ice Man” in the ring, fights out of Baltimore, Md., and is coming off the heels of two back-to-back knockout victories. His most recent came via fifth-round stoppage against Darwin Price on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN on the Davis vs. Gamboa undercard on December 28. The 24-year-old Hawkins is trained by the highly touted Upton Gym coaches’ trio of Calvin Ford, Kenny Price, and Russ Blakey. Hawkins turned professional in 2014 with a knockout victory, which foreshadowed what was to come from the young fighter. As an amateur, Hawkins amassed an impressive 160-15 record while competing in the 2012 and 2013 National Championships and won a bronze medal in the 2012 Jr. Olympics. Best known for his gritty and powerful fighting style, Hawkins joined the Mayweather Promotions team in late 2019 with a knockout decision win over Al Rivera at Cannery Casino & Hotel.


 
“It feels great to headline my first ShoBox event,” says Hawkins. “This is something I wanted to do since I was a kid. A win in this fight and the exposure fighting on a platform like SHOWTIME only brings more recognition to my talent and skills and bigger and better opportunities. I have more than myself to fight for. I have the kids who look up to me at Upton Gym. I fight for them they’re my real motivation.


 
“I can’t say much about my opponent. I know he’s also undefeated. He is a durable opponent and he’s coming to fight, but if you watched my last fight you know I come in to take my opponents 0.”


 
Twenty-seven-year-old Keith Hunter (11-0, 7KO’s) comes from a fighting background. He’s the younger brother of heavyweight contender Michael Hunter, and his father was a well-respected boxer who sparred with Mike Tyson for many years before his tragic death. Hunter didn’t have a long amateur career, electing to turn professional after just 28 fights


 
“I feel confident coming into this fight,” said Hunter. “My last two bouts, I defeated Mayweather fighters and I’m confident with the insight I have. We’re both 6-feet tall, but he’s missing components as a fighter. He has trouble fighting on the outside. He is more comfortable on the inside. I feel I’m the better more skilled fighter going into the fight.


 
“Anytime I get to fight on a big stage like SHOWTIME, I invest a piece of my heart and soul, so hopefully my fans and anyone who watches my fight will see a genuine kid fighting for legacy and not money. This opportunity will help me connect with more people and I’m forever thankful for it.”


 
Hitchins (9-0, 5 KOs), from Brooklyn, is a former two-time Golden Gloves champion who represented his parents’ home country of Haiti in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. One of boxing’s top young prospects, Hitchins has sparred and trained with several world champions including Terence Crawford and stablemate Gervonta Davis. Just 21-years-old, Hitchins boasts incredible hand and foot speed and the boxing IQ of a veteran contender. Having fought eight out of his 10 professional fights in his hometown, Hitchins will travel to Las Vegas for a second time looking for a statement win in his follow-up ShoBoxappearance.


 
“I’m hungrier than ever,” said Hitchins. “I see my brother Tank winning and prospering and I feel that same energy around me when I’m training for hours in the gym and perfecting my craft. I’m made to be great and I have the right people around me who keep my focus, keep me training at the highest level, and push me outside my comfort zone to be victorious. That’s what will show on fight night when I’m inside the ring.”


 
“Nice” Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5KO’s), fighting out of Cranston, RI, is coming off a five-fight win streak with three out of five wins by knockout. He’s best known for his slickness and elusiveness in the ring and looks to make a powerful statement in foreign territory as he makes his Las Vegas and ShoBox debuts next month.


 
“What a great opportunity this is to fight on SHOWTIME,” said DeLomba. “I’ve been fighting my way up to this point and now it’s about showing the world who I am and growing my brand. That’s what I plan on doing come fight night. I take every fight and lesson with me to the gym and train harder than the day before and push myself to really be the best fighter. I know I’m coming in as the underdog, but it’s only going to make me want the win more and to be that guy who gives Hitchins his first defeat.”.


 
Las Vegas’ own Kevin Newman (11-1, 6KO’s) started boxing when he was nine-years old and built up an amateur record of 25-5 before turning pro in 2014. Impressed by Newman’s skills and technique in the ring as an amateur, Floyd Mayweather signed the rising super middleweight to his stable of fighters in the summer of 2014. Newman made his professional debut on the Mayweather vs. Maidana II undercard, where he fought to a draw against Azamat Umarzoda. Newman returns to ShoBox having avenged the only loss of his career against Mark Anthony Hernandez. Newman defeated Hernandez on November 1 at Sam’s Town Live, redeeming himself from their first matchup in 2017 on the Mayweather vs. McGregor undercard. Newman remains humble and hungry as he climbs the ranks in the super middleweight division.


 
“It’s always good to get that weight off your shoulders,” said Newman of his recent victory over Hernandez. “I work hard day in and day out to be the best me and I follow God’s plan. I understand that there’s more for me on my journey now and I’m past that and I’m looking to the future on February 28.


 
“I’ve seen Kalvin fight. There isn’t anything particular that stands out about him. I’ve been in the ring with top tier guys as an amateur and a professional and I have fought tougher opponents. I’m always the smarter opponent.


 
“Fighting on SHOWTIME does a lot for me. It’s not about the win, it’s about how I win. I’m going to put on another dominant performance, something that will set me apart from the rest, and I’m going to take advantage of every opportunity that continues to come my way.


 
Originally from Fayetteville, Ark., but fighting out of Fort Worth, Tx., Henderson (12-0-1, 8 KO’s) doesn’t have a typical background for a professional fighter. He’s a University of Arkansas alumni who pursued a career in music when he was awarded a scholarship as a percussionist. He never lost sight of boxing since he was first introduced at 15 years old and quickly after graduating in 2012, he shifted his focus back to boxing. Henderson has quickly established himself as one of the faster rising super middleweights in the division and welcomes the challenge to continue his pursuit in becoming a world class boxer.


 
“Fighting in other people’s backyard is not a big deal,” says Henderson. “There’s no pressure on me to do anything. I take care of business and I go home. I will say that it brings a different motivating factor. It forces me to train harder and it affects my game plan because we can’t leave the rounds too close.


 
“I’m excited to get in the ring and execute my game plan in front of wide audience. I want to show the world what me and my team already know. I make it hot in the ring. That’s why they call me, ‘Hot Sauce’.”


 
# # #


 
For more information visit: www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter: @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, , @mayweathersprts and, Instaram: @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions #ShoBox  #SinCityShowdown

Hawkins decisions Serrano to wins NABA-USA Welterweight title

 

 

 

Wins by Hard Hitting Promotions fighters Pizarro, Cuevas & Teah

 

Rock, Ellis, Williams and Alday remain undefeated

 

 

 

Philadelphia, PA (April 2, 2018) – This Past Friday night, Malik Hawkins remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Raymond Serrano to capture the NABA-USA Welterweight title that headlined an action-packed 8 bout card at The Fillmore in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

The sold-out show was promoted by Hard Hitting promotions.

 

 

 

Hawkins used his length to pick and land shots on the inside.  Hawkins raced to the early lead, but the veteran Serrano got going in the middle rounds as he used his experience to get himself back into the fight by winning scrums on the inside and an occasional long right hand.  Down the stretch, Hawkins dug down deep and took control of the fight as seemed to be the fresher fighter.  Hawkins who had never been past seven rounds, paced himself well against a tough Serrano, who never showed any signs of retreating as the two stood and fought until the final bell.

 

 

 

Hawkins of Baltimore, MD won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 to raise his perfect mark to 13-0.  Serrano of Philadelphia was urged on by his loyal fan base, but fell just short, and now drops to 24-5.

 

 

 

Heavyweight prospect Darmani Rock landed a hard right to the body that dropped Ronny Hale down and out at 1:27 of round two of their scheduled six-round bout.

 

 

 

Rock of Philadelphia is now 11-0 with 7 knockouts.  Hale of Austin, Texas falls to 4-12.

 

 

 

Good looking prospect Brandon Pizarro rebounded nicely from his 1st professional defeat by pounding out a 4-round unanimous decision over Pablo Cupal in a lightweight fight.

 

 

 

Pizarro, 18 years-old of Philadelphia won by shutout scores on all cards of 40-36, and is now 9-1.  Cupul of San Diego is 9-24.

 

 

 

Samuel Teah dropped Orlando Rizo three times in the 1st round, and their lightweight bout was stopped at 2:35 of that opening frame.

 

 

 

Teah dropped Rizo with a right hand early in the round.  He followed that up with hard body shot that sent Rizo to the canvas, and finished off Rizo with another right hand.

 

 

 

Teah of Philadelphia is now 13-2-1 with 6 knockouts.  Rizo of Managua, Nicaragua is 19-13.

 

 

 

 

Undefeated prospect Jeremy Cuevas got off the deck to come back to win a six-round unanimous decision of Erain Cruz in a super lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Early on it looked like it could have been a rough night for Cuevas as he ate a perfect right hand that sent him to the canvas in round two.  A round later, Cuevas had blood dripping from his nostrils, but the young veteran got himself together and put his combinations together to come to take the rest of the fight, and win by scores of 59-55 on all cards.

 

 

 

Cuevas of Philadelphia is now 8-0.  Cruz of Ocala, FL is 4-5.

 

 

 

It looked like undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis would have a short night as he battered Taneal Goyco all over the ring in the first round of their scheduled six-round bout.  Ellis continued to have Goyco in trouble throughout their affair, and dropped Goyco with a right hand in round three.  Goyco hung tough, but took many power shots, and Ellis looked impressive in winning by shutout scores of 60-53 on all cards.

 

 

 

Ellis of Lynn, MA is now 15-0-2.  Goyco of Philadelphia 9-11.

 

 

 

Tramaine Williams won a six-round unanimous decision over Antonio Rodriguez in a featherweight bout.

 

 

 

Williams landed quick combinations, and cut Rodriguez over his right eye in the final round.

 

 

 

Williams of New Haven, CT won by scores of 60-53, 59-55 and 58-56 to raise his mark to 15-0.  Rodriguez of Mexico is 12-21.

 

Joey Alday, Jr. kept his knockout streak intact by stopping Michael Crain at 1:28 of round three of their scheduled 4-round junior middleweight bout.

 

 

 

Alday dropped Crain round two with a hard combination, and finished him off with a hard left to the body in round three.

 

 

 

Alday of Odessa, Texas is now 7-0.  Crain of Smyrna, DE is 1-2.

 

 

 

For the latest info at @hardhitpromo on    or

 

Hardhittingpromotions.com

 

 

 

 

Hard Hitting Promotions presents stacked card this Friday Night at The Fillmore in Philadelphia

 

 

Raymond Serrano vs Malik Hawkins in Main Event

 

Plus a plethora of the best prospects in boxing

 

 

 

Philadelphia, PA (March 29, 2018) – TOMORROW NIGHT!!!  at The Fillmore in Philadelphia, Hard Hitting Promotions will present an outstanding 10 bout card that has a can’t miss main event, and will feature some of the most talented fighters in the country.

 

 

 

 

In the aforementioned featured attraction, Raymond Serrano of Philadelphia will battle undefeated Malik Hawkins of Baltimore, MD in a ten-round battle for the NABA-USA Welterweight Championship.

 

 

 

 

Serrano, 28 years-old has a record of 24-4 with 10 knockouts.  The former amateur standout is riding a three-fight winning streak.  The 11 year veteran, who is managed by Mark Cipparone has wins over Ashantie Henrickson (1-0), Jay Krupp (12-1), Ronnie Warrior Jr. (13-2-1), Ayi Bruce (15-2-1), Jerome Rodriguez (6-1-3), Zack Ramsey (8-1), and his last bout when he won via 8th round disqualification over previously undefeated Enver Halili (10-0) on November 18th in Atlantic City.

 

 

 

 

Hawkins, 22 years-old, has record of 12-0 with nine knockouts.  The four-year professional exploded onto the scene with a 2nd round destruction over previously undefeated Carlos Soto (13-0-2) on April 14, 2017 in Oxon Hill, Maryland in a bout that was nationally televised on ShoBox: The New Generation.  Hawkins is coming off a 7th round stoppage over Juan Jesus Rivera on November 4th.

 

 

 

 

One of the most talent laden undercards in recent memory has been put together.

 

 

 

 

In six-round bouts:

 

 

 

 

Darmani Rock (10-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Ronny Hale (4-11, 4 KOs) of Austin, Texas in a heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Hard Hitting Promotions elite-prospect Branden Pizarro (8-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia battles 32 fight veteran Pablo Cupul of San Diego in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Hard Hitting Promotions Samuel Teah (12-2-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Orlando Rizo (19-12, 11 KOs) of Managua, NIC in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Hard Hitting Promotions rising prospect Jeremy Cuevas (7-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Efrain Cruz (4-4-1, 1 KO) of Vieques, Puerto Rico in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis (14-0-2, 10 KOs) of Lynn, Massachusetts battles Taneal Goyco (9-10-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia.

 

 

 

 

Hard Hitting Promotions fighter, Gadwin Rosa (5-0, 4 KOs) of Ocala, FL battles an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Tramaine Williams (14-0, 5 KOs) of New Haven, CT battles Antonio Rodriguez(12-20-1, 5 KOs) of Durango, MX in a featherweight bout.

 

 

 

 

In four-round bouts:

 

 

 

 

Romuel Cruz (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

 

Joey Alday, Jr. (6-0, 6 KOs) of Odessa, TX takes on Mike Crain (1-1) of Smyrna, DE in a junior middleweight bout.

 

 

 

 

VIP Tickets are sold out;  General Seats are sold out

 

 

 

 

There’s only some Ringside and Second-floor standing available.

 

 

 

 

The Fillmore is located at 29 E. Allen Street, Philadelphia, PA. 19123

 

 

 

 

 

For the latest info at @hardhittpromo on  Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View on Instagram   or

 

 

 

 

Hardhittingpromotions.com

Raymond Serrano looks to continue career upswing against Malik Hawkins This Friday night in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA (March 27, 2018)This Friday night, welterweight contender, Raymond “Tito” Serrano will look for his 4th consecutive victory when he takes on undefeated prospect Malik Hawkins in the 10-round main event at The Fillmore in Serrano’s hometown of Philadelphia.
Serrano whose winning streak has coincided with his changing of training venues to Los Angeles, has defeated three fighters in a row that sport a combined record of 25-4.
In his last outing, the 28 year-old Serrano was impressive in defeating previously undefeated Enver Halili via 8th round disqualification.
“I had a great training camp.  Freddie Roach trained me and I will be cornered by his assistant Ernie Zavala on Friday,” said Serrano. “Training in Los Angeles is a big part  of my winning streak.  Out there, I am always around big fighters, and I can focus on boxing 100% of the time.”
Another big part of his resurgence is his manager Mark Cipparone of Club 1957 Management.  Cipparone has helped put Serrano in the best possible situation for Serrano to succeed, and Serrano fully acknowledges that.
“Mark is certainly a big part of this.  He makes sure that I get tested in each fight.  The reason that I am around such good training is because of him.  With all that, I feel that I can compete with anyone at welterweight, and I will continue to show it.”
In Hawkins, Serrano is facing an undefeated but untested foe, and he feels with his confidence at a sky high level and ring experience will prove to be the difference.
“Hawkins is undefeated, but this is not the first undefeated fighter that I have fought (It will be his 6th undefeated opponent).  I know he is young, so I want to see what he has.  I am more experienced, and that will be a huge factor on Friday.  Experience is everything. I know what it takes to beat these guys.  I don;t think he will be able to do to me what he has to his previous opponents.”
Cipparone has been seeing the steady improvement in the 11 year-veteran Serrano.
“His last four fights have developed him further then he has at any point in his career.  I would even say beginning with his fight against (Undefeated Prospect) Alex Saucedo.  Raymond would have won the fight if he didn’t get caught in the 2nd round.  Look at the scores.  I think that fight was a turning point for him.  It gave him the confidence that he could compete on the level of the top of the division,” said Cipparone, who also manages heavyweight Joey Dawejko.
“Raymond has the natural ability to go along with a tremendous ring I.Q. He is such a sophisticated fighter in there, and now he has found that warrior inside of him.  I feel it is his time to get to the top of the welterweight division.  This fight is a gift to the promoters as it is for the NABA-USA title with the winner not only going to get the belt, but a ranking in the WBA.  You don’t see fights like this on the club level shows.”

DMITRY BIVOL DEFENDS INTERIM WBA 175-POUND TITLE AGAINST SAMUEL CLARKSON IN THE MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM MGM NATIONAL HARBOR

Undefeated Prospects Malik Hawkins & Glenn Dezurn Victorious In Co-Featured Bouts

Catch The Replay Monday, April 17 At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE To Download Photos; Credit Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

OXON HILL, MD. (April 15, 2017) – Undefeated WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Titlist Dmitry Bivol knocked down Samuel Clarkson three times en route to a fourth-round TKO Friday in the main event ofShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME from MGM National Harbor.

 

Bivol (10-0, 8 KOs) is now the mandatory challenger for WBA (regular) Light Heavyweight World Champion Nathan Cleverly.

 

Bivol stalked Clarkson from the opening bell.  The former Russian amateur standout floored Clarkson in the opening 30 seconds with a series of shots and then knocked him down again a minute later with a straight right.  Clarkson (19-4, 12 KOs) survived the round but didn’t respond well to trouble and was unable to upset Bivol’s rhythm and incredible accuracy.

 

Clarkson was knocked down for a third time when he appeared to walk into a big right midway through the fourth, forcing referee Harvey Dock to halt the contest at 1:40 as Clarkson struggled to get to his feet.  Bivol landed 46 percent of his power shots over the four rounds compared to just 17 percent for Clarkson.

 

“I thought I would finish him in the first round, but I think it was better that it went to four rounds because the fans were able to see the way I fight,” Bivol said.

 

“I’m definitely ready for my title shot against (Nathan) Cleverly in my next fight.  I’m ready.”

 

Clarkson had entered the ShoBox main event on a nine-fight winning streak.

 

“He caught me with a good body shot for the first knockdown,” Clarkson said.  “I thought I was back in the fight in rounds two and three.  In round four I got caught, I stumbled and my balance was off.”

 

Welterweight prospect Malik Hawkins kept his undefeated record intact with a dominating second-round TKO of previously undefeated Carlos Soto in the ShoBox co-feature.

 

Hawkins (11-0, 8 KOs) attacked early and virtually closed Soto’s left eye late in the first round.  Soto took a knee in the closing seconds of the round but survived, although his vision was clearly impaired.

 

Hawkins out-landed Soto 39-15 in the second, including 15-1 in the final minute.  The ringside physician ruled that Soto (13-1-2, 7 KOs) could no longer see out of his left eye following the second round and waved off the contest.

 

“Hard work and dedication. I had a strong camp and believe in my team,” said Hawkins, who is trained by Baltimore’s Calvin Ford and is a stablemate of IBF Junior Lightweight Champion Gervonta Davis.  “What makes it even more special is the blessing of my first-born child.”

 

“I want to give a shout-out to my opponent.  He was big, he was strong, he was durable and he was undefeated.”

 

Soto became the 163 fighter to suffer their first defeat on ShoBox.

 

In a matchup of undefeated super bantamweights in the opening bout of the ShoBox telecast, Glenn Dezurn narrowly edged Leroy Davila to hand the latter his first career loss in a back-and-forth fight scored 78-74 by all three judges.

 

The Baltimore native Dezurn (9-0, 6 KOs) seemed to throw the harder punches and was more effective while fighting on the inside against Davila (5-1, 3 KOs), who was the naturally smaller of the two.  While Dezurn was the more active fighter – he threw nearly 100 more punches over the eight-round bout – the final rounds were extremely difficult to score as the fighters landed within eight total punches across the last three rounds.

 

“I came into the fight with the best trainers in the world, I train at the best gym in the world.  I have the best team in the world and, most importantly, I have the best wife and sparring partner in the world,” said Dezurn, who trains under Barry Hunter in Washington, D.C., and spars with his wife, female professional boxer and former eight-time national amateur champion Franchon Crews.

 

“My team told me that all of the training and sparring I do is harder than this fight itself.  The sparring I do every day is harder.  I wasn’t going to shortchange myself during this fight when what I do every day is harder and when all of my friends and family came out to support.”

 

Davila became the 162 fighter to suffer his first defeat on the prospect developmental series.

 

Tonight wasn’t about winning or losing I showed that I have dog in me.  I answered that question,” said Davila.   “I went off the game plan and should have listened to my corner.  The size played a small part in the fight, but I am not making any excuses. I have seen small men knock out big men before.”

 

The event was promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions and Banner Promotions in association withWorld of Boxing and Uprising Promotions.

 

Friday’s tripleheader will replay on Monday, April 17 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.

 

Barry Tompkins called the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall withRich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

# # #

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @GCPBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSportswww.facebook.com/GCPBoxing/ and www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions/.

DMITRY BIVOL vs. SAMUEL CLARKSON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR TRIPLEHEADER TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

 

 

Tomorrow/Friday, April 14 at 10 p.m. ET/PT from MGM Grand National Harbor in Maryland

 

“I know what people expect of me – they want the KO – and if the opportunity comes I’ll try to finish him.” – Dmitry Bivol

 

“I want to see what the hype is about.  His whole career is my winning streak.” – Samuel Clarkson

 

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

OXON HILL, MD. (April 13, 2017) – Undefeated WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Titlist Dmitry Bivol and streaking challenger Samuel Clarkson made weight on Thursday for their 12-round main event tomorrow/Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® (10p.m. ET/PT) from MGM Grand National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

 

The fast-rising Bivol (9-0, 7 KOs) earned his interim belt in just his seventh professional fight while Clarkson (19-3, 12 KO’s) enters Friday’s main event on a nine fight winning streak.

 

Undefeated welterweight prospects Malik Hawkins (10-0, 7 KOs) and Carlos Soto (13-0-2, 7 KOs) meet in the eight-round co-feature.  Hawkins, a Baltimore native trained by Calvin Ford, is a stablemate of IBF Junior Lightweight Champion Gervonta Davis.

 

In the opening bout of the telecast, Baltimore native Glenn Dezurn (8-0, 6 KOs) takes on former amateur standout Leroy Davila (5-0, 3 KOs), of New Brunswick, N.J., in an eight-round matchup of undefeated super bantamweights.

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions and Banner Promotions in association with World of Boxing and Uprising Promotions, are priced at $103, $73 and $48 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800.745.3000.

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS:

Dmitry Bivol: 174 ½ Pounds

Samuel Clarkson: 173 ½ Pounds

 

Malik Hawkins: 146 Pounds

Carlos Soto: 148 ¼ Pounds

 

Glenn Dezurn: 120 ¾ Pounds

Leroy Davila: 119 ¾ Pounds

 

FINAL QUOTES:

 

DMITRY BIVOL:

“The plan was to become world champion in my first 10 fights.  We’re almost there.

 

“Clarkson is a big light heavyweight, but I have fought bigger guys.  This is a tough fight, but we were willing to take a risk for this opportunity to fight on TV.

 

“I did have a transition from amateur to pros.  The WSB helped that transition and gave me experience.  I’ve been able to learn from fight to fight, and I’ve gained experience in each fight.

 

“I’ve been trying to be more aggressive and control the pace of the fight.  I’m comfortable going forward and backward.

 

“We’ll feel out the power and timing in the beginning.  I know what people expect of me – they want the KO – and if the opportunity comes I’ll try to finish him.

 

“Working at Wild Card has been a big difference.  Training in the U.S. is completely different.  In Russia it’s mostly amateurs, so you get used to the wrong style.  Most of what I’ve learned has been from sparring with pros here in the U.S.

 

“Clarkson usually comes forward.  He seems uncomfortable moving back.  We think we can use our advantages to cap on his mistakes and get him out of his comfort zone.”

 

SAMUEL CLARKSON:

“I’m not an underdog.  I’ve fought my way up here to this position and the winning streak.  I feel like I’ve proven myself to be here.  My losses have helped me get to where I am.  I know I belong here.

 

“I’ve never been one to get knocked down and stay down.  I’m ready for whatever comes.  The pressure isn’t on me.  I just need to do my thing.

 

“I’ve been in some wars.  I know what it’s like to get knocked down.  He hasn’t been there before.  I need to stand my ground.  I’m not backing up.

 

“I want to see what the hype is about.  His whole career is my winning streak.

 

“I’ve been sparring with top quality guys.  I’m ready for this fight.  It’s a big opportunity and I don’t feel any pressure.

 

“He hasn’t been in wars like we have.  It’s hard when you face a guy like me that isn’t afraid of you.  He’s one dimensional.  We want to make him as uncomfortable as possible.

 

“We’re coming to take his belt.  He’s going to have to stop us from taking it.  He’s never faced anyone like me – a really fast fighter with a lot of power.”

 

CARLOS SOTO:

“I’ll do whatever it takes.  If I have to come forward, I’ll come forward.  If I have to box, I’ll box.

 

“Hawkins a smart fighter, fast, tall.  He likes to fight at a distance.  I need to pressure him to win the fight.

 

“I’ve faced fighters as tall as him before.  This isn’t new for me.

 

“I’ve only been in the U.S. once before, and I’ve never fought here.  I need to take advantage of this experience.

 

“My goal is to go for it.  I want to be the best in my weight class.  Everything starts now for me.”

 

MALIK HAWKINS:

“I grew up with Gervonta (Davis).  I saw him win the title, I’ve seen his success, and now it’s my turn.  It’s been great motivation for me.  For him to become a champion motivated me even more.

 

“We’ve sparred 1,000’s of rounds with Gervonta.  We’ve been in there with the champ and know it’s our time.

 

“We’re here to prove we’re ready.  We don’t want to take any shortcuts.  We’re taking this one fight at a time.  We’re building and building.

 

“I’m tall, but I have an inside game.  I fight inside better than a short fighter.

 

“People don’t want to take the chance to fight me.  Credit to Soto for taking the fight, but he’s going to learn the hard way why no one wants to fight me.”

 

LEROY DAVILA

 

“We knew this was coming some day and now it’s here.  We know all about Dezurn.  He’s the perfect opponent for us.  We know can break him down.

 

“When I didn’t make the Olympic team, I got right over it.  But I wasn’t sure I was going to turn pro.  I have a family to take care of and I can’t let anything distract me from being a father.  But now I’m 5-0 and fighting on national TV.  This is the moment I’ve been waiting for.

 

“Dezurn is an aggressive and has a lot of heart, but I’m not worried about him.  I need to focus on myself.

 

“A win puts me in the conversation with the other up-and-coming fighters.  A win could really change my career.”

 

GLENN DEZURN:

 

“Sparring with my wife helps me.  She hits like a dude.  She’s taught me a lot – she taught me discipline.  We push each other in the gym; we make each other better fighters.

 

“If you can make an adjustment with a sharp female woman, there’s no reason you can’t do it with a man.

 

“I like to break down my opponents.  I become aggressive when I see a weakness.

 

“I’m ready to fight.   I’m ready to get in there.  I worked hard and now it’s time to have fun.

 

“I sparred with Rau’Shee (Warren) for this fight.  He has tremendous talent.  He’s an inspiration for me.  We also sparred with Vasyl Lomachenko for this fight.  You have to be physically and mentally in shape to fight him.”

 

# # #

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @GCPBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.facebook.com/GCPBoxing/ andwww.facebook.com/BannerPromotions/.