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boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Anthony Dirrell Media Workout Quotes & Photos

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Former World Champion Takes on Denis Douglin in Main Event of
Premier Boxing Champions Event Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes
Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in
Flint, Michigan
 
Click HERE for Photos from Frank Garza
 
DETROIT (November 1, 2017) – Former super middleweight world champion Anthony Dirrell opened up his training camp to media Tuesday a thet Kronk Boxing Gym as he discussed his matchup against Denis Douglin that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions event Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan and live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and A.D.D. Enterprises in association with Salita Promotions, begin at $20 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit the Dort Federal Credit Union Center box office or visit Ticketmaster.com.
The former super middleweight champion returns to fight in Flint for the third time as a pro and the first time since knocking out Dante Craig at Atwood Stadium in 2011. Dirrell was joined at Kronk by local fighters Alexey Zubov (15-1, 9 KOs)and James Gordon Smith (12-1, 7 KOs), who compete in undercard action on Friday, November 17.
Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday:
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“I feel great because this gives the people of Flint a chance to see world class boxing with one of their own.  We made the tickets cheap so people can come watch great top level boxing. When you buy a ticket the proceeds go to Dirrell’s Chance Foundation, which is something I’m really proud of. The holidays are around the corner and we are going to use these funds to bring some happiness to the kids in the area.
“This is something that I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. I’ve thought about it for a while but the task is still at hand. I still have to take care of my opponent. I’m prepared mentally and physically to go to war.
“I feel great physically. There’s still some work to be done, but if there was a fighttomorrow, I’d be ready. It’s going to be great to get back into the ring on fight night after a long layoff.
“The focus is on sticking to the game plan. You never deviate from that. It’s all about doing what my coaches are telling me to. You can give the fans a great show and stay disciplined boxing at the same time.
“I know that I’ve got all the pressure because I’m fighting at home and I’m going to use it to motivate me. I want to put on the best performance possible. I have a tough opponent who’s looking to spoil my party, but I can’t let that happen.”
ALEXEY ZUBOV
“I look forward to fighting out of my new hometown of Detroit and representing the Kronk Boxing gym.  There has been a revitalization of great boxing in this area and I am happy to be a part of it.
“I will bring a world title back to Detroit, that’s my goal and that’s why I work hard every day. I want to be like the Red Wings’ “Russian Five” and bring glory to Detroit.”
JAMES GORDON SMITH
“I feel very happy about fighting close to home in Flint.  I look forward to putting on a great show on November 17th. These are the kind of opportunities you have to take advantage of to move forward in this sport. I’m ready to show off my skills.
DMITRY SALITA, Salita Promotions
“World class boxing is coming to the Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint on November 17th. Michigan is home to some of the best boxers in our sport and I am very happy to be involved with this promotion.
“Today’s press turnout at our public workout at Anthony’s training camp base in Detroit at the legendary Kronk gym is a testament to the excitement of the local community.November 17th is going to be a special day for the areas sports fans.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Sampson Boxing.
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Anthony Dirrell Flint Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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Former World Champion Takes on Denis Douglin in Main Event of
Premier Boxing Champions Event Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes
Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in
Flint, Michigan
 
Click HERE for Photos from Kristie Marshall
 
FLINT, MI. (October 25, 2017) – Former world champion Anthony Dirrell spoke to media in his hometown Wednesday in advance of his showdown against Denis Douglin that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions event Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan and live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and A.D.D. Enterprises in association with Salita Promotions, begin at $20 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit the Dort Federal Credit Union Center box office or visit Ticketmaster.com.
The former super middleweight champion returns to fight in Flint for the third time as a pro and the first time since knocking out Dante Craig at Atwood Stadium in 2011.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday for Dort Federal Credit Union Center:
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“I’m so thankful to everyone who helped make this event happen. I wanted to bring something to Flint, because of all the negativity that’s been going on here. Flint was a big city when I was growing up. I want to bring some recognition and big events like this to my city.
“It’s an honor to be fighting here again and I’m excited to showcase my talents for everyone in Flint. I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time and the moment is finally here. I will be great when the moment comes.
“I’ve been preparing for this fight. I’ve stayed in the gym and worked hard every day and I’m going to continue to do that up until this fight.
“I hope that we have a great show and we can have more events like this here. I want to give the fans in my city something to come to and enjoy themselves without worrying about anything. Come out, bring your family and just enjoy a great night of skill and talent.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“Anthony Dirrell, who was born and raised here in Flint along with his brother and top contender, Andre, will be fighting for only the third time in his hometown. It’s something that Anthony has wanted for a long time and I can guarantee that he will be at his absolute best in front of his hometown fans and family on November 17th.

“I was trying to come up with the right charity to support with this event and it was right in front of my eyes –   Dirrell’s Chance Foundation – Anthony Dirrell is the founder of the Dirrell’s Chance Foundation, actively giving back to the community of Flint. Anthony is an inspiration to many and he is a true testament of never giving up, both inside and outside of the ring. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to the foundation.”

DMITRY SALITA, Salita Promotions
“Michigan is home to great world champions and some of the greatest boxers of all time. Anthony Dirrell follows in that rich history of exceptional fighters from the state of Michigan.  I am grateful that we can work with TGB Promotions on a world class event in Flint, Michigan at the Dort Federal Event Center on November 17 that will be a real treat to the areas boxing fans.”
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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes was sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina and promoted by Sampson Boxing.
boxing, Fox Sports 1, Premier Boxing Champions

Former 168-Pound World Champion Anthony Dirrell Takes On Denis Douglin in a Special Edition of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYSon FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan on Friday, November 17

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Plus! Rematch Between Welterweight Prospects Jamontay Clark & Ivan Golub in Co-Main Event & Ryan Karl Returns Against
Kareem Martin in Battle of Prospects
FLINT, MI. – (October 4, 2017) – Former super middleweight world champion Anthony Dirrell (30-1-1, 24 KOs) will meet Denis Douglin (20-5, 13 KOs) in a 10-round bout that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions special edition of TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes on November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan at 10:30 p.m. ET/ p.m. PT.
The 10-round bout is a homecoming for Dirrell, who was born and raised in Flint along with his brother and top contender, Andre. It will be the third time that he has fought in his hometown with the 32-year-old’s last outing in Flint ending with a knockout of Dante Craig at Atwood Stadium on July 2, 2011. Since losing his title via majority decision to Badou Jack in 2015, Dirrell has won three straight bouts including his most recent fight, a fifth-round stoppage of Norbert Nemesapati in January.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and A.D.D. Enterprises, begin at $20. To purchase tickets, visit the Dort Federal Credit Union Center box office or Ticketmaster.com.
“Douglin has fought a lot of good fighters and I respect him, but he’s standing in the way of my title shot,” said Dirrell. “This is a chance for me to showcase my skills. I’m going for a stoppage, and I think I’m going to get it in the middle rounds. I want to put on a great performance and give the fans something to see. I’m going to get the job done.”
The 29-year-old Douglin of Marlboro, N.J. has stood in against some of the toughest boxers in the sport, including 168-pound champions David Benavidez and George Groves, plus 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo. In his last match, Douglin lost on a TKO to Benavidez after winning three straight bouts by stoppage.
“I’ve taken a lot of fights on short notice and that’s hurt me in the past, but I’ve had ample time and a great training camp to prepare for this fight,” said Douglin. “I think Dirrell has a problem with guys who aren’t afraid of him and who will actually give him a fight. With my style and determination, I’m going to bring a lot more than he’s expecting. I’m going to bring it for 10 rounds and I know I’ll have my arm raised at the end of the day.”
Jamontay Clark (12-0, 7 KOs) and Ivan Golub (13-1, 11 KOs) will meet in an eight-round welterweight bout that serves as a rematch of their exciting June 30showdown which ended with Clark winning a unanimous decision.
The 23-year-old Clark of Cincinnati, Ohio is looking to remain unbeaten and pick up his third victory of the year, while the 28-year-old Golub, who was born in Ukraine and now lives in Brooklyn, wants to hand Clark the first loss of his career and erase what he believes was a bad decision in their first fight. Coming into the first fight between the two southpaw welterweight prospects, Golub had stopped seven straight opponents.
Ryan “Cowboy” Karl (14-1, 9 KOs) will take on Kareem Martin (9-1-1, 3 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight match that opens televised coverage. The 25-year-old Karl of Houston is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Carlos Winston Velasquez in his last fight on July 18 as he bounced back from the first loss of his career when he lost to Eddie Ramirez in February.
The 22-year-old Martin of Washington D.C. scored a unanimous decision victory over Evincil Dixon in his last fight on Aug. 12 as he works his way back from a defeat to David Grayton last year.
“Anthony Dirrell headlining in his hometown of Flint will be a great treat for boxing fans in the area,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is something that Anthony Dirrell has wanted for a long time and I’m sure that he is going to be at his absolute best and look to really impress in front of his fans on November 17. He will have a tough challenge from the strong Denis Douglin, but if he’s able to get by him, we could see Anthony Dirrell fighting for a world title in the very near future.”
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

TEAM SHIELDS CONGRATULATES BOXING’S NEWEST SUPERSTAR, CLARESSA SHIELDS, FOR WINNING UNIFIED WORLD TITLES IN FOURTH PRO FIGHT

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DETROIT (August 8, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields became the unified WBC and IBF World Super Middleweight Champion last Friday night with a dominant fifth-round TKO of now former champion Nikki Adler.
 
Fighting in front of her home state fans at MGM Grand Detroit and in the main event of a nationally televised ShoBox: The New Generation, Shields put on a display of skills and power seldom seen by a first-time world-title challenger. Without any answers to the level of talent in front of her, Adler was forced to cover up and withstand the blazing speed of Shields’ fists for five one-sided rounds.
 
A driven competitor, Shields is on a mission to become the GWOAT (Greatest Woman of All Time) and the performance against Adler has the entire world watching. Four fights into her professional career and Shields is already the face of women’s boxing.
 
“It was a dream come true to win two world title belts in one night!” said Shields. “I was very proud of my performance, and I can’t wait to defend my belts and then give Christina Hammer her first defeat.”
 
For Team Shields, the victory was more than could ever be asked for from their young fighter.
 
“Congratulations to a unified world champion Claressa Shields!” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “In less than a year as a pro, she has already achieved what no other woman has done in the sport. America’s first two-time Olympic Gold Medalist has become a professional unified world champion in just her fourth professional fight! Congratulations also to the great team behind her: long-time trainer Jason Crutchfield, Berston Field House, and to her managers who work diligently behind the scenes Mark Taffet and Jamie Fritz.  I and everyone at SP is proud and excited to be part of this exciting journey of a lady who is on a quest to be GWOAT!”
 
Shields co-manager, Mark Taffet, a long-time TV exec in boxing, says he’s never seen a performance like the one Shields turned in against Adler. “Claressa Shields’ win over Nikki Adler was the most dominant performance I have ever seen in a championship fight, male or female. She is staking her claim to be GWOAT in spectacular fashion. Claressa is carrying women’s boxing forward on her broad shoulders.”
 
Having fought three times this year already, winning two regional and two world title belts along the way, Shields says she will take some time to enjoy her historic accomplishments before plotting the next move with her team.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

NIKKI ADLER vs. CLARESSA SHIELDS FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR TOMORROW/FRIDAY, AUG. 4 SHOBOX DOUBLEHEADER 

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Live on SHOWTIME® at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT from MGM Grand Detroit

 

“The game plan is simple: Win the fight.” – Nikki Adler

 

“I think I can get her out in six rounds.” – Claressa Shields

 

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

 

DETROIT (Aug. 3, 2017) – WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler and hometown favorite, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields officially made weight on Thursday, one day before they headline a doubleheader tomorrow/Friday, Aug. 4 on ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from MGM Grand Detroit.

 

Shields (3-0, 1 KO) tipped the scales at 165 ¼ pounds with the champion Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany coming in at 166 pounds even. In the ShoBox co-feature, world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (15-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Jesse Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) of Fort Worth, Texas, in an eight-round bout. Both fighters weighed in at 123 ¼ pounds.

 

Shields’ good friend and newly crowned UFC Featherweight World ChampionCris “Cyborg” Justino was on hand Thursday and will walk Shields into the ringon Friday. Also in attendance at the weigh-in was a potential future Shields’ opponent, five-time world champion Christina Hammer, who is undefeated at 21-0 and currently holds the WBC and WBO Middleweight titles.

 

Justino and Hammer met with the media in a forum moderated by Shields’ co-manager Mark Taffet before the weigh-in.

 

“I never thought it would happen, that the sports of MMA and boxing would come together like it has with the upcoming Mayweather-McGregor fight,” said Justino, the former Strikeforce and Invicta FC champion. “I think it’s great and incredible and could possibly open the door for other fights between the sports.”

 

“I’m looking forward to watching Claressa win the fight tomorrow night,” said Hammer. “I want to see her keep winning so we can fight one day. I only want to fight the best and she seems to be one of the best.”

 

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available atwww.ticketmaster.com.

 

Programming Note: Episode 2 of ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. McGregor will air Friday night before the ShoBox telecast at 10 p.m. ET/PT. To watch an exclusive clip of the episode, click here: http://s.sho.com/2u8OxWK.

 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS:

Nikki Adler: 166 Pounds

Claressa Shields: 165¼ Pounds

 

Vladimir Tikhonov: 123¼ Pounds

Jesse Angel Hernandez: 123¼ Pounds

  

FINAL QUOTES:

 

NIKKI ADLER:

“This fight is very big in Germany, and I know there will be a lot of eye on me. It will be 4:30 in the morning, but there will be live streaming and viewing parties.

 

“I’m going to be defensive in the early going and know that Claressa is going to come forward. I want to get the fight into the later rounds. It’s 10 rounds of boxing and there will be lots of action.

 

“I know I will be tough to knock out and have no plans of going down. Claressa has gotten all the hype so far and she wants to put on a show for her fans. I’m going to do everything I can to send those fans home upset after I beat her and carry those belts out of the ring.

 

“This is my second fight with my trainer Rene [Friese]. I wanted to train with the best and I need a trainer who had worked with the top fighters.

 

“My trainer has really been stressing strategies. We have a lot of them. The game plan is simple: Win the fight.

 

“Fighting for the first time in the United States is going to be amazing. I’ve only fought in Russia and Germany, so to be here in a main event on SHOWTIME is really special.”

 

CLARESSA SHIELDS:

“I feel like I’m a lot healthier and hydrated than I did fighting at 160. I’m not sluggish. I used a chef who prepared my meals for the first time and I feel great.

 

“I’ve known about Nikki Adler and Christina Hammer for a long time. I like both of the girls, but when it comes to getting in the ring it’s all about business.

 

“Technically I see that [Nikki] is very poised and calm. She’s patient, but not too patient.

 

“Even though she may be the bigger fighter, I know I’m the aggressor. I think I can get her out in six rounds.

 

“Of course everyone wants to get the big knockout, but I haven’t found the right punch that gets the girls knocked out. I’m young so I know it will come.

 

“I’m glad Cyborg is here to support me. She hits hard and we’ve sparred. She’s strong and she is fast. She’s picked up a lot from me, and I’ve learned from her. She’s the most feared MMA fighter, and I’m most feared in boxing. So it’s great for both women’s sports.”

 

VLADIMIR TIKHONOV:

“This is my first time ever in America. I’m pretty impressed with it. There’s so much to do and see, but I can’t let distractions get in the way.

 

“I’ve been here for about a month training at Kronk Gym. Russian fighters are known for being very disciplined, and we know the opportunity that is in front of us. There is no room for slip ups and to get lazy. This is my big shot and I’m going to take advantage of it.

 

“The sparring has been the biggest thing. I’ve been sparring with pros and amateurs. It’s so much more powerful here and the variety is something I would never get at home.

 

“I can box and I can brawl. Whatever I have to do to get the win.”

 

JESSE HERNANDEZ:

“I had a layoff of about five years and worked construction jobs because I had to pay the bills, but now I’m back and focused on boxing.

 

“In the past I’ve been known to be too aggressive, so I’m going to try and slow things down and be a more tactical boxer.

 

“I have six brothers who were professional boxers and I’ve learned from them. My nickname is ‘The One’ because now I’m the only left fighting.

 

“I’m the youngest of 15 children, all with the same parents. We are a very close family.

 

“I’m a natural right-hander and I’m ready to fight a lefty like Tikhonov. I’ve fought some southpaws and I’ve been sparring with lefties.

 

“He’s undefeated for a reason. I don’t think he’s been in there with someone as tough as I am; as aggressive as I am.”

 

RENE FRIESE, Adler’s trainer

“We came all the way over here to bring home the belts back to Germany.

 

“We have our plan and our strategy in place. We are ready for this fight.”

 

JASON CRUTCHFIELD, Shields’ trainer

“There hasn’t been much smack talking for this fight. I told her you need to let your fists do your talking. Your mouth can’t help you in the ring.

 

“We are ready for 10 rounds. I’m not going to say it’s hard; it’s doable. It’s her first time doing it. We’ve trained for it and she’s been 10 rounds in training three or four times.”

 

# # #

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

Q&A WITH CLARESSA SHIELDS

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TWO-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST, FIGHTING FOR FIRST WORLD TITLE NEXT WEEK, SOUNDS OFF ON OPPONENT NIKKI ADLER AND RISING CELEBRITY STATUS
DETROIT (July 28, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (3-0, 1 KO) says she’s in the shape of her life to take on reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany next Friday, August 4, at the MGM Grand Detroit.
 
Shields will challenge for her first world title in the 10-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event, which will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10:30 p.m. ET/PT).
 
Shields says she’s not rattled by Adler’s recent remarks, that the United States should be ready for their golden girl to taker her first loss. In fact, she’s never rattled. She also gives her thoughts on her recent Twitter war with another top female fighter.
 
Give me your thoughts on Nikki Adler’s remarks about the US being ready for her to beat you. 
 
Nikki has to pump herself up, so she will say a lot the week of the fight. The US is ready alright… ready for its 2x Olympic gold medal winner to win her first pro world title!
 
Does it intimidate you or make you train harder when an opponent talks this way?
 
I’ve never been intimidated by anyone. I have had worse things said to me, I was gonna punish Nikki whether she talked trash or not. 
 
Talk to me about the pressure surrounding this fight. You’re going for your first world title so early with the entire world watching. 
 
I always have the entire world watching. Some people want me to win and some want the opposite! But I know what I can do, I’m just going to do it and dominate like always. No pressure! 
 
Tell me about winning all these awards and coming even further to the forefront of national celebrity. 
 
Winning awards is great; being recognized and respected is great also. I’ve done something that no other person in America has done, I’m the GWOAT! 
 
Do you do anything different in training for a world title fight?
 
Yes, you focus more, recover more, spar more rounds, and drink plenty of water! I’ve never been more ready!
 
Do you believe Nikki Adler has never watched you fight? 
 
No, I don’t believe she hasn’t ever watched me fight. That’s all mind games! She wants me to believe that. But in all honesty, nothing on the internet can help her in a fight against me! 
 
Do you dislike her now? 
 
(Laughs) Dislike is for emotional females! I love her! I’m gonna kick her ass! And give her a big thank you after.
 
Tell me about your Twitter feud with (fellow top female boxer) Layla McCarter. What’s going on there? 
 
Layla McCarter talks too much. For no reason. I didn’t have a problem with her at first, but she just upset because I say I’m P4P! And it’s the truth. She is just in denial! One minute she supports me and the next she is coming at me. In her interview after she beat Szabados, a girl I TKO’d in the fourth round previous, she says she can come to 160 and beat me. Then whenever I get props, or recognition, there she is again just saying slick stuff. I had to let her have it. 
 
What will your philosophy be as world champion if you win?
 
I don’t do ‘ifs.’ WHEN I become world champion, my philosophy will be to be so great that even your enemies will start to love me. God has been my rock for many years. He says ‘be humble to him,’ which I am! But I don’t have to be humble to man when I speak about my God-given ability.
 
To open the telecast, undefeated world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight tough rounds between southpaws.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They are available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
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 69 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, Errol Spence Jr. and more.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

DETROIT’S DOMONIQUE DOLTON RETURNING TO ACTION NEXT FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 AT MGM GRAND DETROIT

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DETROIT (July 27, 2017) – Detroit-based super welterweight contender Domonique Dolton is eager to return to action next weekend and get back in the mix.
 
Dolton (17-1-1, 9 KOs) hasn’t fought in 10 months and hasn’t fought in his home state in nearly seven years, but says manager David Segura, and new trainer Jonathan Banks have him at an all-new level of skill and fitness and ready for the world’s best.
 
He will take on Brockton, Massachusetts, veteran Antonio Chaves Fernandez in a six-round fight on the undercard of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event on Friday, August 4, at the MGM Grand Detroit.
 
In the night’s main event, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (3-0, 1 KO) will fight for her first world championship against reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany, live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10:30 p.m. ET/PT).
 
In the evening’s co-main event, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will collide with fellow undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-round “Someone’s 0 Must Go” showdown at MGM Grand Detroit and live on.
 
To open the telecast, undefeated world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight tough rounds between southpaws.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
“I feel really strong,” said Dolton. “I have been sparring with some of the top fighters in Detroit and I have one of the top trainers in the game working with me now, Johnathan Banks. I have all the right people supporting me. I also have one of the top business leaders locally and nationally, David Segura backing me. The sky is the limit.”
 
Dolton says although he’s been out of the ring, he hasn’t been inactive and the results will be apparent in his upcoming performances.
 
“I have been working on my craft, putting time into the gym.  I am at a next level in my career now. I learned from the past and I’m ready to use my skills and experiences to showcase a level of boxing that true fight fans want to see: speed, power, and footwork that has taken me a lifetime to develop. My speed and strength are there and I will showcase this when I am under the lights on August 4.”
 
Manager Segura says he’s happy Dolton is part of the resurgence of professional boxing in Detroit.
 
“As a long-time Detroit business leader, I continue to look for ways to invest in the excitement that is transforming our city. Domonique Dolton is a world-class fighter that the City of Detroit is going to be proud of what he will achieve both in and out of the ring. His foundation was set many years ago under the tutelage of the late Emanuel Steward. We have high aspirations and expectations of the next level Domonique Dolton and it begins on Friday Aug 4th, 2017 at the MGM Detroit. Salita promotions has put together a great card and it will be an historic night in Detroit boxing.”
 
Even promoter Dmitriy Salita says he’s happy to see Dolton looking sharp and ready to return to battle. “Dominique is a product of the Kronk Boxing Gym and Detroit’s great history of fighters. I am happy that he will have an opportunity to showcase his skills in front of his hometown crowd.”
 
Better than ever and ready for the world, Domonique Dolton says he’s ready to fulfill the enormous potential attached to his name for many years.
 
“I will be fighting against a top-ranked contender within the next 12 months. I am going to get very active and create a lot of excitement here in Detroit and for my fans worldwide, as they see me build momentum toward the ultimate goal of being a world champion.”
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

TWO-TIME GOLD MEDALLIST CLARESSA SHIELDS NAMED #28 OF SPORTING WORLD’S TOP 50 MOST DOMINANT ATHLETES BY AOL

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DETROIT (July 10, 2017) – Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields has been named #28 in AOL’s annual list of the world’s 50 most dominant athletes.
 
Shields came in ahead of top stars from across the world of sports including Connor McGregor and the NBA’s Steph Curry.
 
According to AOL: “Shields lived up to the hype around her at the Rio Olympics, becoming the only American to win back-to-back golds in boxing at the Olympics. Following a dominant amateur career in which she went 77-1, she’s 3-0 with one knockout under her belt in her professional career. She’ll compete for the world title in just her fourth professional bout in August.”
 
On Friday, August 4, at MGM Grand Detroit, Shields (3-0, 1 KO) will fight for her first world championship against reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany. The 10-round match-up will serve as the main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST,” and televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10:30 p.m. ET/PT).
 
“I’m thrilled to be among such an elite group of men and women chosen as the most dominant athletes alive,” said Claressa Shields. “I’m particularly proud to join Andre Ward as the only two boxers on the list.”
 
“I’m so proud of Claressa, said her co-manager, Mark Taffet. “What an honor for this 22-year-old trailblazer!  It is a tribute to her unsurpassed talent, dedication and perseverance.  And this story has just begun!”
 
“It’s another amazing accomplishment and recognition for Claressa to be recognized with the top athletes in the world less than a year as a professional athlete,” said her promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “Claressa is on her way to be the face of woman’s sports and her world title challenge against current champion Nikki Adler is a big step in that direction.”
 
To view the entire list, click HERE.
 
In the evening’s co-main event, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will collide with fellow undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-round “Someone’s 0 Must Go” showdown at MGM Grand Detroit and live on.
 
To open the telecast, undefeated world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight tough rounds between southpaws.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
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 69 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, Errol Spence Jr. and more.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS METEORIC RISE TO STARDOM IN PROFESSIONAL BOXING ANOTHER CHAPTER IN HER HISTORIC JOURNEY

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DETROIT (July 25, 2017) – On Friday, August 4, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields will make another significant stop on her historic journey through the sport of boxing.

 
In the 10-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event at MGM Grand Detroit and televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10;30 p.m. ET/PT) Shields (3-0, 1 KO) will challenge for her first world title in just her fourth fight against reigning WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) of Germany.
 
Already considered a national treasure and award-winning female role model, Shields’ boldly quick world-title quest will catapult her to superstar status and into boxing history once again. By comparison to other female boxing stars from past and present, Shields is way ahead of the curve for a typical rise through the ranks:
 Laila Ali: Won IBA Super Middleweight title in her 12th pro fight
Christy Martin: Won WBC Jr Welterweight title in her 21st pro fight
Lucia Rijker: Won WIBF Super Lightweight title in her 9th pro fight
Regina Halmich: Won IBF Flyweight title in her 10th pro fight
Ann Wolfe: Won IFBA Jr Middleweight title in her 10th pro fight
Cecelia Braekhus: Won WBC Welterweight title in her 11th pro fight
Christina Hammer: Won WBO Middleweight title in her 8th pro fight
Holly Holm: Won IBA Super Lightweight title in her 11th pro fight
 
The historical significance of this fight is not lost on the 22-year-old Flint, Michigan native.
 
“It’s a great honor to be mentioned in the same sentence as Lucia Rijker, Christy Martin, Laila Ali and Ann Wolfe, among others,” said Shields. “I want to lift boxing to new heights and help open doors for women in boxing. Beating Nikki Adler is a must for me to achieve my goals.”
 
Shields’ co-manager, Mark Taffet, says this rocket ship to the top is all part of the plan set out for Shields. “We want every one of Claressa’s fights to occupy a special place along her historic journey. August 4 against Nikki Adler, and the opportunity to win a world title in just her fourth pro fight, is an important ‘first’ in what will be a career of game-changing firsts for Claressa Shields.”
 
In the night’s televised co-main, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) over 10-rounds and to open the telecast, world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight rounds.
 
Tickets for the event are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They are available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
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 69 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, Errol Spence Jr. and more.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

WBC CHAMPION NIKKI ADLER HARD AT WORK TO DEFEND HER BELT AGAINST CLARESSA SHIELDS ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 AT MGM GRAND DETROIT

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DETROIT (July 21, 2017) – German WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Nikki Adler is hard at work for her Friday, August 4 title defense against two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa “T-Rex” Shields.
 
Adler (16-0, 9 KOs) will make the third defense of her WBC 168-pound title, and try to add the IBF Super Middleweight belt to her collection, against Flint, Michigan’s Shields (3-0, 1 KO) in the 10-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “BATTLE OF THE BEST” event at MGM Grand Detroit and Televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation (10;30 p.m. ET/PT)
 
In the night’s televised co-main, junior welterweight KO artist Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) will face undefeated prospect Sonny “Pretty Boi” Fredrickson (17-0, 11 KOs) over 10-rounds and to open the telecast, world-ranked super bantamweight Vladimir Tikhonov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Russia will face Texas slugger Jesse Angel Hernandez (8-1, 6 KOs) over eight rounds.
 
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now and are priced at $350, $250, $125 and $60. They will be available at www.ticketmaster.com.
 
Adler says the only adjustment to fighting in the North America for the first time is to improve her English. And if she’s concerned about facing Shields, the only American to capture back-to-back boxing gold medals at the Olympic Games, she’s not showing it. She hasn’t even watched tape of Shields’ meteoric three-fight professional career. In fact, Adler and trainer Rene Friese are asking Americans not to take it personally when their hero falters against her.
 
How is training going?
It is going great! I work hard and I am very focused. My trainer is very satisfied with me and my progress. We entered training camp a few weeks ago, already had great tough sparring and I will be very well prepared to defend what’s mine: the green belt.

Did you prepare any differently for this fight compared to your others?
Yes, but it has nothing to do with Claressa. At the beginning of the year, I changed my trainer who brought me and my boxing skills to a new incredible level. I am better, faster and stronger. This feels amazing! 

What do you think of Shields as a fighter?
To be honest, I’ve never watched her fight, but I am sure Claressa is a fighter from the bottom of her heart. So am I. This will create magic moments on August 4. 

Does it make any difference to fight in North America for the first time?
Yes, because I need to improve my English. I speak German and Croatian fluently and will do my very best to thank Claressa personally for a great fight and to tell her without any translator that she can be proud that she took the challenge and one day she will be a champion too – maybe at middleweight.
 
What would a victory over Claressa Shields mean to you?
17-0

How do you feel about the recent resurgence of women’s boxing?
Our fight announcement rocked the media, the fans and lot of other boxers who want to be a part of the event. It is great to see and it will get better. But, just a warning, America needs to be strong when I take my belts back home to Germany. I said it once before and I will say it again and again: The higher the quality, the more attractive is the fight for the fans. The state of woman’s boxing needs tough woman like Claressa and me who are not afraid of a challenge.

How does it feel to be fighting on Showtime and in front of the world?
It is the biggest woman’s boxing fight in 2017. Winning is the only thing I’m concerned with. 

What can the fans in Detroit and on television expect to see from you? 
Fans will see a fit fighter, they can expect a tough puncher and, finally, a dominating reigning champion.
 
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 69 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, Errol Spence Jr. and more.