Tag Archives: Pennsylvania

boxing

Anvar Yunusov takes on Joshua Davis in main event on Friday, November 16th at Sands Bethlehem Event Center

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Undefeated fighters meet as Martino Jules takes on Daron Williams
Undefeated fighters square off as Kendall Cannida takes on Travis Toledo
Undefeated Alejandro Jimenez, Joshafat Ortiz, Michael Coffie, Joseph George, Yeuri Andujar and Christian Montano in action

 

Bethlehem, PA (October 16, 2018) –Three-time Olympian and undefeated Anvar Yunusov takes on Joshua Davis in the eight-round super featherweight main event on Friday night, November 16th at The Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

 

 

 

The show is promoted by King’s Promotions.

 

 

 

Yunusov, who competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympics for his native Tajikistan, is now 5-0 with two knockouts as a professional.

 

 

 

The 31 year-old fights out of Philadelphia, and turned professional in 2017.  He has registered his two knockouts in his last two outings with a 4th round stoppage over former contender Mike Oliver, and in his last bout when he destroyed Angel Monreal in one-round on September 14th in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Davis of Washington, DC has a record of 11-3 with five knockouts.

 

 

 

The 27 year-old Davis is a seven-year professional, who has an impressive 7th round stoppage win over Carlos Rosario (7-1).  Davis is looking to get back into the wins column as he has dropped his last two outings.  In his last bout, Davis was stopped by undefeated Steven Ortiz on January 26th in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

A full undercard of top prospects in action-packed matchups will entertain the fans in attendance in Bethlehem.

 

 

 

In six-round bouts:

 

 

Martino Jules

 

 

 

Martino Jules (5-0) of Bethlehem fights Daron Williams (7-0, 4 KOs) of Washington, DC in a featherweight bout.

 

 

 


Joshafat Ortiz

 

 

 

Joshafat Ortiz (5-0, 3 KOs) of Reading, PA fights Joey Arroyo (3-5-1) of Bronx, NY in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 


Michael Coffie

 

 

 

Michael Coffie (4-0, 3 KOs) fights Juan Goode  (8-8, 6 KOs) of Taylor, MI in a heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

Joseph George (7-0, 6 KOs) fights Andre Espuet (4-7, 3 KOs) of Cedar Rapids, IA in a super middleweight fight.

 

 

 

 

 

Christian Montano

 

 

 

Christian Montano (7-0, 6 KOs) boxes Paul Holley (6-1-1, 5 KOs) of Sarasota, FL in a light heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

In four-round bouts:

 

 

 

Jonathan Torres of Bethlehem, PA will fight Steven Lopez (0-2) of Philadelphia in a bantamweight affair.

 

 

Alejandro Jimenez

 

 

 

Alejandro Jimenez (3-0, 1 KO) of New Hope, PA takes on debuting Francisco Santiagoof Reading, PA in a bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Yeuri Andujar (1-0, 1 KO) of San Cristobal, Dominican Republic fights Bryann Perez (2-11-1, 1 KO) of Carolina, Puerto Rico in a featherweight affair.

 

Kendall Cannida

 

 

 

In a battle of undefeated light heavyweight, Kendall Cannida (2-0) of Philadelphia fightsTravis Toledo (2-0, 2 KOs) of Baltimore.

 

 

 

Ricky Nuno (2-1, 1 KO) of Bethlehem, PA boxes Jonathan Burrs (0-1) of Hagerstown, MD in a welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $50, $75 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

boxing

Rock knocks out Rodriguez in four

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Cuevas decisions Rodriguez in bloody co-feature
 
Pizarro stops Johnson
 
Rosa & Tapia remain undefeated
 
Sinkain wins pro debut
 

Philadelphia, PA (October 8, 2018) – This past Saturday night, Darmani Rock remained perfect by stopping Pedro Julio Rodriguez in round four of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight fight that headlined a seven-bout card at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

The action-packed card was promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

 

 

 

The card was seen by a world wide audience on Facebook Fight Night Live, and can be viewed in demand BY CLICKING HERE

 

 

 

Rock focused on the body early-on.  In round four, Rock landed a hard right to the body, and left hook that sent Rodriguez to the canvas.  Rodriguez got to his knees, and that was it as he took the ten-count at 27 seconds.

 

 

 

Rock, 275.5 lbs of Philadelphia is now 13-0 with eight knockouts.  Rodriguez of Miami falls to 23-6.

 

 

 

 

 

Good looking prospect Jeremy Cuevas won a six-round unanimous decision over Jerome Rodriguez in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Cuevas was cut from around his left eye in the third round from an accidental headbutt.  In was the right eye of Rodriguez that started leaking blood in the same round.  Cuevas started putting his dazzling combinations together, but Rodriguez showed a good chin.

 

 

 

This was a solid learning experience for the 22 year-old Cuevas, as he fought an experienced foe and worked through adversity by having the cut.

 

 

 

In the end, Cuevas won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice to raise his perfect mark to 11-0.  Rodriguez of Trenton, New Jersey falls to 7-10-3.

 

 

 

 

 

Branden Pizarro stopped veteran Justin Johnson in round two of their scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

 

 

Pizarro dropped Johnson three times in round two, and the bout was stopped at 2:21.

 

 

Pizarro, 141.2 lbs of Philadelphia, PA is now 12-1 with six knockouts. Johnson, 141.5 lbs of Pittsburgh is 6-19-6.

 

 

 

 

 

Gadwin Rosa needed just 41 seconds to destroy Aldimar Silva in a scheduled six-round super featherweight bout.

 

 

Rosa scored two knockdowns, and the bout was stopped.

 

 

Rosa, 130.5 lbs of Ocala, FL is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Silva, 128.1 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 21-14.

 

 

 

 

 

Christian Tapia stopped Hector Marengo in round two of their scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

 

 

Tapia dropped Marengo in round two with a right hand. Marengo did not beat the count at 2:02.

 

 

Tapia, 133.3 lbs of Coamo, PR is 6-0 with five knockouts. Marengo, 134.5 lbs of Arecibo, PR is 7-14-4.

 

 

 

 

Benny Sinakin won a four-round unanimous decision over Alex Lara in a light heavyweight bout.

 

 

At the end of round three, Sinakin dropped Lara with a left hook.

 

 

Sinakin, 172.8 lbs of Philadelphia, PA won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 1-0. Lara, 173.6 lbs of Manhattan, NY is 1-1.

 

 

 

 

 

Marcos Suarez and Israel Suarez battled to a four-round majority draw in a lightweight clash.

 

 

In round one, Marcos Suarez suffered a cut on his forehead.

 

 

Marcos Suarez took a card 40-36 while that was overruled by two even cards at 38-38.

 

 

Marcos Suarez, 133.3 lbs of Bronx, NY is 5-0-2. Israel Suarez, 134.5 lbs of Luquillo, PR is 4-6-3.

 

 

 

HARD HITTING PROMOTIONS WILL RETURN TO THE 2300 ARENA ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH.  DETAILS TO BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY

boxing

 Unbeaten Ruben Villa Fights in Hometown of Salinas, CA on Saturday, Oct. 13

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Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

PHILADELPHIA, PENN. / ORANGE, Calif. (Oct. 1, 2018) – Promising featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (13-0, 5 KOs) headlines a talent rich card from his hometown of Salinas, Calif. on Saturday, Oct. 13.

 

 

 

Villa, 21, returns to the Salinas Storm House for the second time this year. The talented southpaw faces Mexico’s Miguel Carrizoza (10-3, 2 KOs) in the 8-round “New Blood”main event.

 

 

 

Villa last fought from the Salinas Storm House in April, when he routed fellow prospect Marlon Olea in route to winning the vacant WBO Youth featherweight championship. It was Villa’s first title since turning professional in July 2016.

 

 

 

The two-time national Golden Gloves winner fights for the fifth time this year after registering six wins in 2017.

 

 

 

“It’s incredible how fast I’ve developed,” said Villa, who is managed by Danny Zamora and trained by Max Garcia. “It feels like it was yesterday that I was in four round fights and now I’m routinely headlining shows.”

 

 

 

The lefty, who sometimes conducts training camps in the sparring rich city of Riverside, Calif., decided to stay close to home for this fight. Him and his team have zeroed in on what is required to defeat Carrizoza.

 

 

 

“He fought my stablemate, Michael Dutchover [undefeated junior lightweight], last year so Mike gave me a pretty detailed scouting report on him,” Villa said. “He’s a bruiser. He likes to come forward and get you onto the ropes or just backpedaling. I know how to fight guys like that. I’ve fought against guys like that before and I’ve seen a bunch of them in previous training camps. We are really comfortable in our game plan.”

 

 

 

Villa is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

 

 

 

Tickets for “New Blood” are priced at $40, $75, & $125, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

 

 

 

The Salinas Storm House is located at 185 Maryal Drive in Salinas, CA 93907.

 

 

 

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 6 p.m.

 

 

 

All fights will be live streamed on our Facebook page.

 

 

 

The livestream starts at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert, color commentary.

 

 

 

“New Blood” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and Banner Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

 

 

 

 

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

 

 

 

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Darmani Rock takes on Pedro Julio Rodriguez in main event on Saturday, October 6th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

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Jeremy Cuevas vs Jerome Rodriguez in co-feature
Branden Pizarro to see action
Also featuring undefeated Gadwin Rosa, Christian Tapia, Marcos Suarez and Marcel Rivers

Philadelphia, PA (October 1, 2018) – A terrific night of action is rounding into place as Hard Hitting Promotions presents an eight-bout card THIS Saturday, October 6th at The 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

In the main event, undefeated heavyweight Darmani Rock (12-0, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia takes Pedro Julio Rodriguez of Miami, Florida, via Cuba in an eight-round bout.

 

 

 

Rock of Philadelphia, who was the number-one amateur heavyweight in the United States and former Youth Amateur champion, has a record of 12-0 with seven knockouts.

 

 

 

The 22 year-old Rock is a two-year professional who has a 1st round stoppage over Carlos Cotto (8-1-1) on his resume.  Rock is coming off a six-round unanimous decision win over Marquis Valentine on July 20th in Sloan, Iowa.

 

 

 

This will be Rock’s 3rd appearance in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Rodriguez has an impressive mark of 23-5 with 19 knockouts.

 

 

 

The 32 year-old Rodriguez is an eight-year professional, who has defeated four undefeated fighters.  Rodriguez holds a win over Andy Perez, who was 19-2 at the time.

 

 

 

Rodriguez is coming off a loss to Andrey Afonin on May 19th.

 

 

 

In the six-round co-feature, Jeremy Cuevas (10-0, 8 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight Jerome Rodriguez (7-9-3, 2 KOs) of Allentown, PA in a lightweight contest.

 

 

 

Branden Pizarro (11-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia will take on 24 fight-veteran Justin Johnson of Pittsburgh in a six-round junior welterweight fight.

 

 

 

Gadwin Rosa (7-0, 6 KOs) of Ocala, Florida takes on David Berna (16-5, 15 KOs) of Budapest Hungary in a super featherweight bout.

 

 

 

In four-round bouts:

 

 

 

Christian Tapia (5-0, 4 KOs) of Coamo, Puerto Rico fights Hector Marengo (7-13-4, 4 KOs) of Arecibo, Puerto Rico in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Marcos Suarez (5-0-1,1 KO) of Bronx, New York battles Israel Suarez (4-6-2, 1 KO) of Luquillo, Puerto Rico in a lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Benny Sinakin of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against Alexander Lara in a light heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

Marcel Rivers (6-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Tickets available now! $50 GA , $70 Premium, $125 VIP +fees

 

 

Purchase Tickets online at hardhittingpromotions.com ;  2300arena.com or by calling 267.758.2173  as well as the 2300 Arena Box Office.

 

Doors 6PM – First bout 7PM

 

 

 

Follow Hard Hitting Promotions at:

Like us on Facebook  Follow us on Twitter  View on Instagram

 

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Mercado outlasts Vazquez in classic slugfest

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Fight of the Year Candidate being called Best fight in Pennsylvania
Aleem, Madison Powell, Coffie and Jules stay undefeated
Over Half-A-Million views on this incredible night of action, and now can be watched on-demand by:
CLICKING HERE

Philadelphia, PA (September 27, 2018) – This past Tuesday night, one of the most thrilling fights in recent memory, Anthony Mercado and Victor Vazquez waged an eight-round war for the ages that saw Mercado overcome a horrible cut over his right eye, a knockdown, and multiple instances where the fight could have been stopped to persevere and somehow comeback to win the fight.

 

 

 

The bout, for which some at ringside were saying it was the best fight in Pennsylvania, headlined a nine-bout card at The Sands Bethlehem Event Centerand was promoted by King’s Promotions.

 

 

 

The show was streamed live to a record audience of over 500,000 views on Facebook Fightnight Live.  The show can be seen on-demand by CLICKING HERE

 

 

 

Mercado was cut badly over his right in round two from an accidental headbutt.  In round three, Mercado landed a hard flurry on the ropes that forced Vazquez into the ropes, and referee Gary Rosato ruled that ropes kept Vazquez from being knocked down and administered an eight-count.  Vazquez fought back in round four and landed a couple of booming left hooks that rocked Mercado.

 

 

 

The continued to trade heavy shots at will, which led to some brutal exchanges with each guy landing some vicious power punches.  In round six, Vazquez landed some booming shots that had Mercado in trouble for much of the round,  One such flurry had Mercado seemingly a punch or two a way from getting stopped.  At the end of the round, Vazquez landed a flush left hook to the jaw that put Mercado plummeting to the canvas.  Mercado got up just as the bell rang, and he stumbled to the corner.  Vazquez went in for the finish in round seven, but Mercado, with blood now covering the whole right side of his face, was able to stabilize himself and work his way back into the fight.  Mercado made it all the way back, and was able to box his way to win the decisive eighth round.

 

 

 

Mercado, 140.8 lbs of Puerto Rico won by scores of 77-74 and 76-75 twice to raise his mark to 12-5.  Vazquez, 137.9 lbs of Yonkers, New York fought a great fight, but now falls to 10-5.

 

 

 

“I just thought of my dad.  I thought the fight was close to being stopped.  It was not easy, he is a good boxer.  I did not feel the cut.  I will have to talk to my team, but money talks for a rematch,” said Mercado

 

 

 

Vazquez said,”It could of went any way.  He is a good opponent.  He is tough.  We both have power.  We both came ready for the fighter.  Today we are both winners.”

 

 

 

In the co-feature, Raeese Aleem stopped Alcides Santiago at the end of round five of their scheduled six-round super bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Aleem beat Santiago down, and scored a knockdown in round five.

 

 

 

Aleem, 121.9 lbs of Las Vegas, was making his first start under new trainer and former world champion Bones Adams, is now 12-0 with six knockouts.  Santiago, 122.6 lbs of Arecibo, PR is 6-3.

 

 

 

 

 

Joe Hanks stopped Terrance Marbra at 2:54 of round one of their six-round heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

Hanks scored one knockdown before the fight was halted.

 

 

 

Hanks, 253 lbs of Newark, NJ is 23-2 with 15 knockouts.  Marbra, 220 lbs of Saint Petersburg, FL is 9-7.

 

 

 

Erik Spring took a six-round unanimous decision over James Robinson in a rematch of junior middleweights.

 

 

 

Spring sealed up the fight with a knockdown late in round six, and came home home with the win by scores of 59-54 twice, and 58-55.

 

 

 

Spring, 153.3 lbs of Reading, PA is now 11-2-2.  Robinson, 152.9 lbs of York, PA is 5-12-5.

 

 

 

Colby Madison remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Nicoy Clarke in a heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

Clarke fought most of the bout with a cut over his left eye that was caused by a punch.

 

 

 

Madison, 241 lbs of Owings Mills, MD won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55, and is now 7-0-2.  Clarke, 211.5 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 2-2.

 

 

 

Good looking prospect Money Powell IV won a six-round unanimous decision over Josue Obando in a middleweight contest.

 

 

 

Powell, 163.1 lbs of Fort Mitchell, AL won by scores of 60-54 twice, and 59-55 to go to 8-0.  Obando, 165 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 16-23-1.

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Coffie scored four knockdowns en-route to a 2nd round stoppage over Curtis Head in a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

Coffie registered the knockdowns evenly as he put Head on the canvas twice in each round, and the bout was stopped at 1:57.

 

 

 

Coffie, 270.5 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 4-0 with three knockouts.  Head, 257 lbs of Southfield, MI is 4-3.

 

 

 

 

 

Martino Jules thrilled his hometown fans by dropping Felix Sosa in round’s one and three, which paved the way for a four round unanimous decision in a contest featuring undefeated featherweights.

 

 

 

Jules, 124.5 lbs of nearby Allentown, PA won by tallies of 40-34 on all cards, and is now 5-0.  Sosa, 124.1 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 1-1.

 

 

 

Kenny Robles dropped Corey Gulley in round two, and finished him at 2:13 of round three from a wicked flurry of punches in a junior welterweight fight scheduled for six-rounds.

 

 

 

Robles, 138.2 lbs of Staten Island, NY is now 4-1 with two knockouts.  Gulley, 140.6 lbs of Killeen, TX is 2-3-2.

 

 

 

KING’S PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO SUGARHOUSE CASINO ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH.  THAT SHOW WILL FOLLOWED UP BY KING’S PROMOTIONS RETURN TO THE SANDS BETHLEHEM EVENT CENTER ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH,  DETAILS ON BOTH SHOWS WILL BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY

boxing, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE

TUESDAY NIGHT FIGHTS! FIGHTNIGHT LIVE AND KINGS BOXING CLOSE OUT SEPTEMBER AT THE SANDS

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Fan-friendly, interactive FREE series Powered by Everlast makes Tuesday night debut from Bethlehem, Pa.

 

NEW YORK (Sept. 21, 2018) – Following a Season II opener viewed by almost 197,000 and the revelation of its new title sponsor, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast partners with King’s Promotions once again, closing out the month of September with Tuesday Night Fights. Fans can catch all of the action in the center of the ring on Tuesday, Sept. 25, at 7 p.m. live from the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, Pa.

 

 

 

“Tuesday Night Fights! We love being able to present weeknight shows filled with up-and-coming fighters, giving fans the opportunity to relax in their living rooms and catch all the action on any device, including their big screens,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “We’re looking forward to four or so hours of action, so catch us at home or on the go live, or anytime next week on demand through the miracle of Facebook.”

 

 

 

“King’s Promotions is ecstatic about almost 200,000 views for our Sept. 14 show, especially on short notice,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Boxing. “We continue to be one of the busiest promoters anywhere and we’re excited to bring the best-quality boxing to fight fans on Facebook.”

 

 

 

In the main event on Tuesday, Anthony Mercado (11-4, 9 KOs) of Philadelphia and Puerto Rico takes on Victor Vazquez (10-4, 3 KOs) in what figures to be an exciting super lightweight bout scheduled for eight-rounds for the World Boxing Foundation Silver International title. Also in action, undefeated featherweight prospect Stephen Fulton (13-0, 6 KOs) of Philly meets veteran Esteban Aquino (12-5, 7 KOs) of the Dominican Republic. Middleweight Money Powell (7-0, 4 KOs), rising featherweight prospect Raeese Aleem (11-0, 5 KOs), heavyweights Colby Madison (6-0-2, 4 KOs) and Michael Coffie (3-0, 2 KOs) and featherweight Martino Jules(4-0) will all risk their undefeated records.

 

 

 

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE, Powered by Everlast is the fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased more than 340 fighters and 11 promotions during 18 live event broadcasts since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

 

 

 

At more than 1.6 million views for the series, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has continued to deliver impressive numbers throughout its first 18 shows:

 

  • Since May 2017, the numbers on the 18-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 90,001 views per eventand more than 6 million total views.

 

  • The Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. 2018 “Card Fit For Kings” from Philadelphia (195,620), the Sept. 2017 CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (151,253) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 18-show series has seen a total of 1,620,014 views across all devices.

 

  • In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 183,000 collective live post engagements(more than 10,100 per show), including more than 124,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 31,000 comments and more than 10,000 shares.

 

  • The Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 viewsand the Sept. 2017 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

 

  •     The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 80,000 fans and more than 83,000 followers. And Facebook itself has taken notice – the world’s No. 1 social network recently profiled FIGHTNIGHT LIVE on its “Success Stories” media blog, noting the series’ use of industry best practices for production and interactivity: https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/success-stories/fightnight

 

 

 

 

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

 

 

 

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Fall 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

 

 

 

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

 

 

 

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and@FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

 

 

 

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.

The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilder and Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visit www.everlast.com.

boxing

Undefeated Heavyweight Darmani Rock to headline on Saturday, October 6th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

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Top lightweight prospect Jeremy Cuevas to take part in co-feature
Brandon Pizarro goes for 12th win
Undefeated Gadwin Rosa, Christian Tapia, & Marcel Rivers in action
Plus the pro debut of Benny Sinakin

(Photo/Roc Nation Sports)

Philadelphia, PA (September 17, 2018) – Top Heavyweight prospect Darmani Rock will take part in the eight-round main event on Saturday, October 6th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Also, appearing in the co-feature bout will be rising lightweight prospect Jeremy Cuevas.

 

 

 

The show is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions in association with Roc Nation Sports.

 

 

 

Rock of Philadelphia, who was the number-one amateur heavyweight in the United States and former Youth Amateur champion, has a record of 12-0 with seven knockouts.

 

 

 

The 22 year-old Rock is a two-year professional who has a 1st round stoppage over Carlos Cotto (8-1-1) on his resume.  Rock is coming off a six-round unanimous decision win over Marquis Valentine on July 20th in Sloan, Iowa.

 

 

 

This will be Rock’s 3rd appearance in Philadelphia.

 

Cuevas (10-0, 8 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

 

 

The 22 year-old Cuevas is a two -year professional, who has been recognized as one of the top lightweight prospects in the country.  He has stopped his last two opponents, which includes his last bout when he stopped Deo Kizito at The 2300 Arena.  This will be Cuevas’s 3rd consecutive and 4th overall fight at The 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

Surging 18 year-old prospect Brandon Pizarro will see action in a six-round bout.

 

 

The former Junior Olympic champion has a record of 11-1 with five knockouts.

 

 

 

The Philadelphia native is a two-year professional, and has a win over previously undefeated Abdiel Padilla.

 

 

 

Pizarro, who has won three consecutive bouts, is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over veteran Hector Marengo on August 11th at The 2300 Arena.  This will be Pizarro’s 3rd consecutive appearance at The 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

Seeing action on the undercard in a six-round bout will undefeated super featherweight Gadwin Rosa (7-0, 6 KOs) of Ocala, Florida.

 

 

 

Also in a four-round bout will be undefeated super featherweight Christian Tapia (5-0, 4 KOs) of Coamo, Puerto Rico.

 

 

 

Undefeated welterweight Marcel Rivers (6-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia will take part in a four-round bout.

 

 

 

Making his pro debut will be 21 year-old Benny Sinakin of Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Also making his pro debut will be lightweight Thyler Williams of Philadelphia.

 

 

 

All opponents and more bouts will be announced shortly.

 

 

 

Tickets available now! $50 GA , $70 Premium, $125 VIP +fees

 

 

Purchase Tickets online at hardhittingpromotions.com ;  2300arena.com or by calling 267.758.2173  as well as the 2300 Arena Box Office.

 

Doors 6PM – First bout 7PM

 

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

Team Pennsylvania Defeats Team New Jersey in Inaugural MMA Pro League Fight Card at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

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Click HERE for Photos from Mike Dorsi/MMA Pro League

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 16, 2018) – The newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, launched Saturday as Team Pennsylvania led by head coach Daniel Gracie defeated Team New Jersey led by head coach Dan Miller by a score of 14 – 6 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and on FloCombat.com.

 

 

 

In the opening bout on FloCombat.com, Joseph Penafiel of Team Pennsylvania defeated Turpal Khamzayev of Team New Jersey by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28), securing three points for Team Pennsylvania.

 

 

“Getting that first win for my team meant everything,” said Penafiel. “I wanted to set the tone for my team and let everyone know we’re here to bang. I knew (Khamzayev) was tough, but I’m way too much for him. Even when he tried to strike me I was able to stay comfortable. And in the grappling department I don’t think many people can mess with me.”

 

 

 

The second official team bout saw Cody Hier of Team Pennsylvania secure a TKO victory over Gabriel Ruiz of Team New Jersey 3:43 into round two and earning Team Pennsylvania five more points, expanding their lead 8 – 0.

 

 

 

“I finally feel like I’m hitting my rhythm in the cage,” said Hier. “I did everything that I could to help Team Pennsylvania get the win tonight. I could tell Ruiz was out and he was quitting. When I hit him with that first big ground and pound, I felt how well I tagged him. And then when he tried to go to his side that’s when I really got aggressive and finished him.”

 

 

 

In the third fight, Team New Jersey’s Claudio Ledesma won by unanimous decision (29-27, 30-27, 30-27) over Andre Bernardo of Team Pennsylvania, earning Team New Jersey their first three points and tightening the team contest 8 – 3.

 

 

 

“I was glad to do my part for my team,” said Ledesma. “I’m a little mad that I wasn’t able to stop him, though. I hit him with everything but the kitchen sink, but I just couldn’t finish him. After the second round, once I realized that I probably wasn’t going to finish (Bernardo), I knew my main goal was to just secure the win and that’s what I did.”

 

 

 

The fourth official contest of the night featured a unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-27) victory by Zedekiah Montanez of Team Pennsylvania over Mike Pagano of Team New Jersey, capturing three more points for Team Pennsylvania and growing the lead 11 – 3.

 

 

 

“It felt great to get the win. I was just trying to listen to my coach and my teammates,” said Montanez. “I also had my son right there watching me tonight. He helps remind me what I do this for. But tonight, I was happy to get this experience under my belt and get the win for my team.”

 

 

 

In the evening’s fifth bout, Team Pennsylvania’s Rafael Celestino defeated Team New Jersey’s Emmanuel Walo by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28). With Celestino’s win, Team Pennsylvania collected three more points, widening the score 14 – 3, and officially securing Team Pennsylvania victory.

 

 

 

“I’m very happy with my win and to be able to help my team earn the victory tonight,” said Celestino. “Walo is a very tough opponent and he came to fight tonight, but I did enough to get the win and am happy with my performance.”

 

 

 

The sixth and final official contest showcased an exhilarating finale as Kevin Sears of Team New Jersey scored a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-27, 29-27) over Ahmed Samir of Team Pennsylvania, making the final team score 14 – 6 in favor of Team Pennsylvania.

 

 

 

“I went in there and fought for my team, but I was also fighting for my daughter and my family,” said Sears. “I’m doing this to make my daughter’s life better. She helps push me and drives me to fight. Samir had me shook in the first round, and then again in the second, but I just dug deep and did what I needed to get this win.”

 

 

 

“The way we won showed me a lot about my team,” said coach Gracie. “We won decisively and showed the type of performance that I’ve come to expect from my guys.

 

 

 

“MMA needs innovation and something new to excite the fans and help bring the masses to our sport,” added Gracie. “I think MMA Pro League and this team concept is exactly what will help bring that added attention and take this sport to the next level.”

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

 

 

 

 

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

 

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

MMA PRO LEAGUE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Inaugural Event This Saturday, September 15 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming Live on FloCombat.com
 
Head Coach Dan Miller Leads Team New Jersey Against
Head Coach Daniel Gracie & Team Pennsylvania
 
Click HERE for Photos from MMA Pro League

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 13, 2018) – As fight night approaches for the inaugural MMA Pro League event, fighters from head coach Dan Miller’s Team New Jersey and head coach Daniel Gracie’s Team Pennsylvania participated in media workouts Thursday at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City.

The newest entity in MMA kicks off this Saturday, September 15 at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in bouts streaming live on FloCombat.com (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” are available at Ticketmaster.com.

The full bout sheet is available HERE. Here is what the fighters in attendance and league executives had to say Thursday:

DAN MILLER, Head Coach of Team New Jersey

“It means a lot to be coach for Team New Jersey. It’s my home state and it’s a big event for it. I love the team concept and I’m proud to be in this position.

“We’re here representing the whole state. We’ve had the team training together and building camaraderie. It’s like a wrestling match style where each team is sending people out.

“Everybody looks good and healthy in training camp. I think we’re ready to go. All of these fights are going to be fantastic. These are matched very well and it should be a fun night. Team Pennsylvania better be ready, because our guys are.”

DANIEL GRACIE, Head Coach of Team Pennsylvania

“Everything in training has been perfect. I’ve been working with most of these guys for a long time already so we just kept up what we’ve been working on. With the team concept we have a lot more people to focus on instead of just one or two. We already had good chemistry though, so everything went smoothly.

“Our amateur guys turning pro are going to show that they belong in these fights. It’s time to grab the spotlight. Your first fight is the best opportunity to make an impression.

“I think that MMA needs something new that can draw people’s attention. This is a great chance to bring in the fans who don’t pay attention to MMA and give them a chance to get behind their local teams.”

HANI DARWISH, CEO of MMA Pro League

“Fans should expect something completely different than they’re used to. MMA has always been a team sport and I’m glad we’re going to be the ones to expose that to the world. These guys have always trained with a team, because you can’t train by yourself.

“We believe this is going to be the new era of MMA. We’re going to give cities and states all around the world the chance to really stand behind their own teams.

“There’s been a lot of hard work and strategic planning leading to this and it’s finally coming to fruition. It’s a vision that we implemented and once we got the right people we knew it was a theme we believed in so much that we decided to execute.”

MARK TAFFET, President of MMA Pro League

“We’re going to create a legacy in this sport that is going to last for generations to come. I had the privilege of launching HBO PPV 30 years ago and I saw a lot of history be made. Now I have the chance to do it again, along with my partner Hani Darwish.

“My first fight at HBO PPV was right here in Atlantic City for Evander Holyfield vs. George Foreman. It’s very significant for me to be back here in Atlantic City at the brand new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to have a chance to create another chapter of great moments.

“One of the most important things to MMA Pro League is to have the right coaches leading the teams. Dan Miller and Daniel Gracie are both natural leaders, mentors, great former fighters and great teachers. They represent everything we want to represent with MMA Pro League.”

MARK KOLKER (NJ) vs. ZULKARNAIYN KAMCHYBEKOV (PA) – Middleweights

Kolker: “This is really exciting and I’m very thankful for the opportunity. We’re doing something different than anyone else is doing and I think it can be something special.

“I know that I have an opponent who can wrestle and who’s undefeated as an amateur. I feel like I have the tools to beat him. I can catch, slip and put him away with something early. Or if he wants to go the distance we can do that too. I predict I knock him out.”

Kamchybekov: “This is my first pro fight and I’m very happy to have the opportunity. I don’t know too much about my opponent but I will be prepared. I have worked very hard and I’m going to show my wrestling and striking to get this win.”

GABRIEL RUIZ (NJ) vs. CODY HIER (PA) – Featherweights

Ruiz: “It feels good to get back in the cage and feel the adrenaline. I’m hoping to give everyone a great fight.

“I know my opponent is a wrestler so he’s going to try to take me down. He’s not going to want to stand up with me, but I’m prepared for a lot of wrestling. I’m trying to knock him out and go eat a burger.”

Hier: “It’s amazing to be a part of this MMA Pro League venture. It’s such a great opportunity and I’m glad to be on the ground floor.

“My opponent has taken some time off but I know he’s going to be ready to fight. I’m not sleeping on him. This is going to be an action fight.”

CLAUDIO LEDESMA (NJ) vs. ANDRE BERNARDO (PA) – Bantamweights

Ledesma: “It’s awesome to be able to represent New Jersey. I’m so happy to have this opportunity. This has been a great experience so far.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. I like to focus on what I do and make adjustments when I have to.”

Bernardo: “It’s been a hard road getting to where I am today and I’m grateful to be fighting for MMA Pro League.

“I’m facing a very experienced fighter. He has a black belt in jiu-jitsu and is a well-rounded fighter. He’s still going to have to get in
there and fight me. I know we’re going to go to the ground eventually and I plan to choke him out.”

MIKE PAGANO (NJ) vs. ZEDEKIAH MONTANEZ (PA) – Welterweights

Pagano: “I’m proud to be a part of this first MMA Pro League show. I’m excited to represent my state in the cage.

“My opponent seems very well composed. He likes to sit back and box before looking to throw. Everyone has a plan until you get punched in the face, so I’m going to go out there and just fight.”

Montanez: “It feels really good to be in this position. Fighting professionally has been a dream of mine and now it’s here. I’ve worked so hard to get to this moment and I’m really excited.

“I know that I’m facing a wrestler who likes to put pressure on and come straight forward. We’re prepared for anything he throws at me and I will adapt to anything he throws at me. It’s going to be a war but I just have to go out there and be the best I can be.”

JUSTIN OSBORN (NJ) vs. ANDY JIMENEZ (PA) – Welterweights

Osborn: “I’m excited to go out there and do what I love to do. I can’t wait to get in that cage and stare across at a guy who’s ready to take my head off.

“I know I’m facing an undefeated amateur making his pro debut so I’m ready for anything. I’m ready for the whole nine yards. I’m predicting a finish.”

JOSEPH PINAFIEL (PA) vs. TURPAL KHAMZAYEV (NJ) – Bantamweights

Pinafiel: “It means everything to me to have this platform. This is an opportunity to build upon my career. I’ve had amazing treatment here. I’m going for it all on Saturday.

“I’m facing a tough guy in his own backyard. But I’m here to make a statement. I want to take him out and give everyone a good fight. I’m hoping he brings the best out of me. I am going to win. I’m ready to finish him any way possible.”

KEVIN SEARS (NJ) vs. AHMED SAMIR (PA) – Heavyweights

Sears: “This means a lot to me. I’ve fought in 10 leagues and this has been the best experience by far. MMA Pro League just cares about their fighters.

“Samir looks really tough and I know he has a lot of experience. Everyone is dangerous at this level and it only takes on punch to go to sleep. I’m going to go for the finish right from the start.”

# # #

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague, Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie, Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.

mixed martial arts, MMA, MMA Pro League

Full Lineup Set for MMA Pro League Inaugural Event This Saturday, September 15 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City & Streaming Live on FloCombat.com

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Head Coach Dan Miller Leads Team New Jersey Against
Head Coach Daniel Gracie & Team Pennsylvania

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (September 11, 2018) – The newest entity in MMA, MMA Pro League, is just days away from their inaugural event with an exciting lineup of fights that pits fighters from Team New Jersey, which is led by head coach Dan Miller of the Miller Brothers, against Team Pennsylvania and their head coach, Daniel Gracie of the renowned Gracie family.

 

 

 

The fighters square-off this Saturday, September 15 at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in bouts streaming live on FloCombat.com (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Tickets for the inaugural installment of “MMA Pro League At The Hard Rock” are available at Ticketmaster.com.

 

 

 

The MMA Pro League event will see Claudio Ledesma taking on Andre Bernardo in a bantamweight fight, Gabriel Ruiz in a featherweight clash against Cody Hier and a light heavyweight contest that pits Emmanuel Walo against Rafael Celestino.

 

 

 

Featherweight action will feature Mike Pagano in a bout against Zedekiah Montanez, plus Kevin Sears takes on Ahmed Samir in a heavyweight attraction and a bantamweight affair that sees Turpal Khamzayev battle Joseph Penafiel.

 

 

 

Rounding out the exciting inaugural night of MMA Pro League fights are Mark Kolker facing Zulkarnaiyn Kamchybekov in a middleweight fight, a lightweight showdown between Shan Cella and Francisco Muniz and a welterweight matchup between Justin Osborn and Andy Jimenez.

 

 

 

Ledesma is a native of West Orange, NJ and currently holds a 14-7 record as a professional fighter. Bernardo is originally from Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil and has a professional record of 8-4.

 

 

 

Ruiz fights out of Woodland Park, NJ with an 0-1 record as a professional fighter and an amateur record of 5-2-1 in the flyweight division. Hier is originally from Daison, MI. He later moved to Philadelphia to train at Gracie Gym. Hier has a record of 1-1 as a professional fighter in the bantamweight division.

 

 

 

Walo was born in Cleveland, OH and spent the first few years of his life there before moving to Liberia at a very young age. Walo eventually returned to the U.S. to join the United States National Guard and was stationed as a guard in an Iraqi prison. While in Iraq, Walo was exposed to mixed martial arts and quickly fell in love with the sport. When Walo returned home, he began training and made his professional debut in December 2010. He has accumulated a professional record of 12-2-1. Celestino is from Brasilia, Brazil and has a 5-2 record as a professional fighter in the Middleweight division.

 

 

 

Pagano, a United States military veteran, is originally from Fayetteville, NC. He later moved to New Jersey to train with Dan Miller’s Miller Brothers MMA. Pagano is also a trainer at the gym and serves as the head instructor for the gym’s Little Spartans youth martial arts and anti-bullying program. He is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu with an 0-1 record as a professional fighter. Montanez is a mixed martial arts fighter based in Pennsylvania. He has a 3-2 record in the featherweight division.

 

 

 

Originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado, Sears is an eleven-fight MMA veteran who owns seven wins after a strong amateur career. Representing his native Egypt, Samir won his only professional MMA fight by knockout and owns an 11-1 record as a professional boxer.

 

 

 

Bantamweight brawler Khamzayev was born in New Jersey and turned professional in May of this year when he lost his debut. He takes on Orlando’sPenafiel, who won a decision in his professional debut in April.

 

 

 

Kolker will represent New Jersey, but was born and raised in Alabama. He made his professional MMA debut in June 2017 with a decision victory. After amassing an amateur record of 4-0, Kamchybekov will make his his professional MMA debut on Saturday night.

 

 

 

A 23-year-old from New Jersey, Cella will return to action for his second professional MMA fight. Muniz is originally from Caguas, Puerto Rico. His preferred discipline is Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Muniz has fought five times in his native Puerto Rico, attaining a record of 4-1.

 

 

 

Osborn is originally from Tennessee before representing New Jersey. He emerged victorious in his professional debut in August. Fighting out of New York, Jimenez was 3-0 in amateur MMA bouts and will fight for the first time professionally on Saturday’s card.

 

# # #

 

 

 

To access live and on-demand coverage of all MMA Pro League action, visit FloCombat.com and become a monthly or annual PRO subscriber. Either subscription unlocks access to premium content across the entire FloSports network. Watch the games on all screens by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Roku, or Apple TV 4.

 

 

 

For more information visit www.MMAProLeague.com, follow the conversation on Twitter @MMAPro_League, @DanMiller185, @DanielGracie, @Hani_Darwish1 and @MarkTaffetMedia, on Instagram at Instagram.com/mmaproleague,Instagram.com/DanMiller185, Instagram.com/DanielGracie,Instagram.com/Hani_Darwish1 and Instagram.com/MarkTaffetMedia, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/MMAProLeague.