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Undefeated Super Lightweight, Milton Santiago Jr. takes on Ken Alvarez at the Inaugural fight card at the SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia

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For Immediate release

Philadelphia, PA (August 25, 2016)–Undefeated super lightweight prosepct Milton Santiago Jr. will see a lot of familiar faces when he takes on Ken Alvarez at the SugarHouse Casino this Friday night in Philadelphia.
Santiago, still just nineteen years-old, will headline for the first time since his professional debut 30 months ago as he has established himself as a big ticket seller in the Philadelphia.
According to his handlers at Battlestrong Boxing, this is by far the most tickets that young Santiago has sold in what will be his 15th outing.
“The demand has been off the charts, ” said Santiago’s co-manager Moz Gonzalez.  Gonzalez, along with his partner Eddie Woods are scrambling around looking for more tickets for Santiago’s many fans.
“It is a great problem to have.  We sold out our allotment of tickets very quickly and we are looking for tickets as we keep taking calls from people who want to come on Friday.”
“Everything is good.  I am on weight, and now I am getting ready for the fun part and that is to fight,” said Santiago.
In Alvarez, he is fighting a capable opponent who has a record of 7-4-2 with three knockouts.  Alvarez was undefeated in his first eight bouts that included big wins over undefeated Kevin Nieves (6-0) and Israel Arellano (7-1).
“I know he is from the Dominican Republic.  He is tough, In-shape and comes to fight, so I have to be prepared for anything.”
Santiago is excited to once again have top-billing.  He cites many reason’s for the extreme interest in this bout.
“It feels awesome to be the headliner.  Everyone is coming to watch you, and it’s a blessing and I know have to show the people what I got.  It’s terrific to be the first headliner at the SugarHouse.  I feel that Philly fans come to support their own.  My record is continuing to grow and be built and I am back with my father training me, so I think there are plenty of good reasons for the great support I will have on Friday.”
Santiago expects to fight a couple more times this year and with a big win on Friday, he sees the competition to be stepped and bigger rewards on the way.
“I am hoping to fight for a small title by the end of the year.  Then next year, I am looking to get ranked and fighting ten round bouts.  All that will help my name get out more.  I just want to thank everyone for their support and I am looking to impress everybody.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated Rising Star David Benavidez Knocks Out Denis Douglin in Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN & ESPN Deportes Main Event from Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena

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Undefeated Lightweight Alejandro Luna Bests
Naim Nelson by Unanimous Decision
 
Click HERE for Photos
Credit: Premier Boxing Champions/Ryan Hafey
 
Click HERE for Benavidez vs. Douglin Highlights
 
Click HERE for Luna vs. Nelson Highlights
 
PHILADELPHIA (August 6, 2016) – Undefeated rising contender David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez (16-0, 15 KOs) knocked out Denis Douglin (20-5, 13 KOs) in the 10-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN and ESPN Deportes from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
Douglin, who is trained by his mother Saphya, opened the fight very aggressive, stealing the first round on all three judges’ scorecards. Douglin continued to press the action, also winning the second round battle with two of the three judges, but Benavidez would soon settle in and take control of the war.
“I knew it was going to be a tough fight. I knew Douglin wasn’t going to go out without a fight,” said Benavidez. “So I came in here and started slower than I usually do, just using my jab a little bit more.”
The 19-year-old Benavidez made the necessary corrections in round three and never looked back, chipping away throughout the fourth and fifth rounds. In the sixth, Benavidez teed off on Douglin with damaging punches to both Douglin’s body and head.
In the seventh round, Benavidez was still having his way when one of the top turnbuckles gave out, causing the ropes on one side of the ring to collapse, and stopping the fight momentarily. When the action resumed, Douglin came forward with a flurry, but that burst of energy was short-lived.
Benavidez regained control in the eighth round, and in the ninth he scored the only knockdown of the fight. In the tenth and final frame, Benavidez threw a barrage of punches, several of which buckled Douglin, causing referee Gary Rosato to intervene and stop the fight at :35 into the round.
When asked about Douglin’s resilience, Benavidez said, “I hurt him a lot of times, but I kept my cool. I knew I was going to get him out of there sooner or later and that’s exactly what I did tonight. This is a good victory for me. Douglin is a tough veteran. He started fast and swinging wildly, and his offense probably looked better on-camera than it was, but he did what he had to do to survive until the final round.”
Benavidez continued, “It was important to me to get the stoppage and show everybody that I am just as strong in the late rounds as I am early on. I love this. This is what I signed up for. I want tough fights.”
A disappointed Douglin said, “I was in this fight, I just got winded. I was in great shape and everything, but I got winded there towards the end. Benavidez is a tough, young fighter. He was able to make me stay in there longer than I wanted to, but I feel good and I’ll be back.”
Benavidez concluded, “Right now, I would like to say that I don’t think about who’s next. I’m just trying to progress in my career and I’m not trying to call anybody out. But if I do dream about fighting anybody, it would be whoever is the champion at my weight. I’m going to work hard to get to that spot.”
Televised coverage began with exciting undefeated contender Alejandro “El Charro” Luna (21-0, 15 KOs) defeating Philadelphia prospect Naim Nelson (13-2, 1 KO) by unanimous decision (99-91, 98-92, 97-93) in a ten-round bout fought at a catch weight of 144 lbs.
Nelson, who stepped up to face Luna on only 24-hours notice, tried to bring the fight to Luna in the early rounds and make it a physical contest on the inside.
Despite Luna landing a couple of blistering uppercuts in the second and third rounds, Nelson still came forward. Luna later said, “Nelson was a tough guy and could bang a little bit.”
By the close of the third round, Luna’s left eye appeared to be swelling badly, but luckily for Luna Nelson’s gas tank appeared to drain just in time. Although Nelson was all aggression and wanted to fight in a phone booth early on, he found himself landing fewer punches and looking to create distance in the middle rounds.
Luna soon took over the action, and in the seventh round a cut opened on Nelson’s forward, but was quickly controlled by his corner. Nevertheless, Luna had done enough damage in the middle stages of the scrap and was able coast to a unanimous victory on the scorecards.
“Obviously we prepared for another opponent, but I felt I had a solid performance against him,” said Luna. “Nelson came to fight and was in shape, and I thought I handled him pretty well, but I know I can still do better.”
When asked about taking the fight on short notice Nelson said, “I make no excuses, but we took this fight at 9 p.m. last night and I knew I was stepping up to face a tough opponent. I didn’t get the decision, but I felt good in there tonight, and I proved I can compete with a world class fighter.
Nelson added, “Luna is a good puncher and he’s strong. I won’t take anything away from him. We fought a hell of a fight, and I look forward to being back soon.”
Luna summed up the night adding, “I’m looking to build on what I did here tonight and get back in the ring soon for another good fight.”
# # #
The card was promoted by King’s Promotions.
For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KingsBoxing, @ESPNBoxing and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions.  Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

David Benavidez Training Camp Quotes & Photos

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Undefeated Rising Star Takes On Denis Douglin in Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN & ESPN Deportes Main Event
Friday, August 5 Live from Philadelphia
 
Click HERE for Photos from Valentin Romero From
Team Benavidez/Premier Boxing Champions
 
PHILADELPHIA (August 1, 2016) – Undefeated rising contender David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez is on the fast track to a world title opportunity and he will look to make another statement when he battles contender Denis Douglin in the 10-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN and ESPN Deportes Friday, August 5 live from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with exciting lightweight contender Alejandro “El Charro” Luna (20-0, 15 KOs) taking on Ireland’s Stephen “The Rock” Ormond (21-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round attraction.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $50, $75 and $100, not including fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets click HERE.
Here is what Benavidez had to say about his opponent, training camp and more:
 
On his recent training camp in Southern California…
“We had another great training camp out here in Long Beach, California.  We put the final touches and wrapped up camp and I’m ready to go.  There was plenty of good sparring and we worked on some things we know will help us in this fight. I’m in great shape and I feel sharp.”
On fighting in his first main event on ESPN…
“Fighting on ESPN is great exposure for me and my team, especially in the main event.  We all worked so hard to get in this position and now it’s time to capitalize on this great opportunity. I know a lot of family and friends back home in Phoenix will be tuning in. I just want to shine out and perform to my best ability.”
On facing his opponent Denis Douglin…
“This is going to be a tough fight.  I know Douglin is hungry to give me my first loss.  He’s coming off three wins in a row, so I’m taking this fight very seriously. Being that he’s a southpaw, I’ll have to do some things a little different.  We worked on all that stuff in camp so I know I’m going to be ready for anything he brings to the ring.”
On training with his father and head coach Jose Benavidez…
“My dad Jose has been guiding my corner from the first day I started boxing around three years old.  Together we have a strong bond and I respect him very much.  He’s come up with a great game plan tailor made for Douglin.  He’s made a lot of sacrifices to help me get to this point and I’m very thankful to him for all that he’s done for me and my brother. I want nothing more than to bring him another great victory.”
On fighting on the East Coast for the second time in his career…
“The East Coast fans are very passionate about their boxing.  Douglin, being that he’s from New Jersey, will have a lot of fans rooting against me.  But I’m not going to let anything distract me from the task at hand and that’s coming back home with a win.”
For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KingsBoxing, @ESPNBoxing and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions.  Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, ESPN Boxing, PBC on ESPN, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated Rising Star David Benavidez Takes On Hard-Hitting Denis Douglin in Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN & ESPN Deportes Main Event Friday, August 5 Live from Philadelphia

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Plus! Undefeated Lightweight Alejandro Luna Meets Irish Contender Stephen Ormond with Televised Coverage Beginning
at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Tickets on Sale Now!
 
PHILADELPHIA (July 18, 2016) – Undefeated rising contender David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez (15-0, 14 KOs) is set to face super middleweight contender Denis Douglin (20-4, 13 KOs) in the 10-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN and ESPN Deportes Friday, August 5 live from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with exciting lightweight contender Alejandro “El Charro” Luna (20-0, 15 KOs) taking on Ireland’s Stephen “The Rock” Ormond (21-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round attraction.
“We never stopped training after my last fight,” said Benavidez. “We went right back into camp and I’m already in fighting shape. Douglin is a tough southpaw. We’ll start looking at tape and see what kind of holes he has. I’ll start with the jab and break him down. We’re working hard towards bigger and bigger fights. This is going to be a great night of action.”
“I plan on applying pressure and making Benavidez adjust to my style,” said Douglin. “He’s a tall, strong fighter, but he doesn’t use his height. He’s one-dimensional, but he’s very good at what he does. He doesn’t have the experience to deal with my style. I am stepping in with an undefeated fighter but he will leave the ring with a loss.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $50, $75 and $100, not including fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets click HERE.
The younger brother of undefeated Jose Benavidez, David has racked up a perfect 15 wins in 15 starts at just 19-years-old. Fighting out of Phoenix, Benavidez picked up four victories via stoppage in 2015 and kicked off his 2016 with a knockout of Kevin Cobbs in January. He scored a second round knockout of Phillip Jackson Benson in April and followed that up by stopping previously unbeaten Francy Ntetu in the seventh round in June.
Representing Marlboro, New Jersey, Douglin was a 2008 National Golden Gloves champion at middleweight who won his first 12 fights after turning pro in 2009. The 28-year-old has battled top fighters Jermell Charlo and George Groves, in addition to owning victories over previously unbeaten Steve Martinez and veteran Charles Whitaker. He looks for his third straight victory after stopping Marcus Upshaw in the eighth round of his last bout.
At just 24-years old, Lunahas already put together an impressive 20 professional wins since turning pro in 2010. Fighting out of Bellflower, California, he defeated former world champion Cristobal Cruz over eight rounds in June and knocked out Sergio Lopez in August to close his 2015. He began his 2016 campaign by stopping veteran Alan Herrera in the eighth round of their January showdown.
Fighting out of Dublin, Ormond is undefeated in his seven starts in the U.S. including his last three outings, which all came in Massachusetts. The former European lightweight champion owns victories over Derry Mathews, previously unbeaten Adam Dingsdale and most recently tough contender Marcos Jimenez.
For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KingsBoxing, @ESPNBoxing and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
BET Network, boxing, Roc Nation

Luis “Orlandito” Del Valle Decisions Thomas “KO” Snow; Targets Bigger Opportunities

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Del Valle left hook.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Roc Nation Sports

Washington, DC (May 14, 2016) – 122 pound contender Luis “Orlandito” Del Valle (22-2, 16 KO’s) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico scored a clear-cut, eight-round unanimous decision over local southpaw Thomas “KO” Snow (18-3, 12 KO’s) on Friday, May 13 at the DC Armory in Washington, D.C.
Fighting on Roc Nation Sports’ Throne Boxing on BET, Del Valle looked to set the tone by pressuring the DC-based Snow in the opening round. In the second, the former NABA featherweight champion landed a number of straight right hands, including one that sent Snow down hard. Sensing that a knockout may be imminent, Del Valle swarmed Snow but he made it out of the round.
The third saw Del Valle land a picture perfect left hook that dropped Snow again, who effectively tied up after tasting the canvas. Del Valle continued to press the action in the fourth and fifth stanzas, while Snow began moving his hands but still held frequently. Snow found moments of success in the sixth and had his best round in the seventh, during which he connected with a hard shot that got an off balance Del Valle’s attention. Still gunning for a knockout, Del Valle pushed the action in the eighth however, Snow tied him up on multiple occasions and finished on his feet.
While most fans and ringsiders had Del Valle winning at least six rounds, the scores were surprisingly 76-74 on all three scorecards.
“Thomas Snow was a very game fighter and I tip my hat off to him for being a tough competitor,” Del Valle said shortly after the victory. “I would’ve liked to have finished him, but he was constantly tying me up. I thought the referee would’ve warned him or taken a point, but that didn’t happen. This fight was a good learning experience and like JAY Z says ‘it’s onto the next one.’”
With Snow out of his way, Del Valle’s sights are set on bigger opportunities.
“I want to get my hands on one of the champions or top contenders at 122 pounds. Ever since I started boxing, my goal was to become a world champion. I’m hoping to have the chance to fight for one of the belts soon because there’s nothing I want more than to bring a world title belt back to Puerto Rico.”
Fans can interact with Del Valle on Twitter @Orlanditoboxing and facebook.com/Orlandito-Del-Valle-111406195543360.
BET Network, boxing, Roc Nation

King’s Promotions Thomas “KO” Snow ready for statement win over Del Valle Friday night in Washington, DC

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Washington, DC (May 12, 2016)– This Friday night in Washington, DC, Thomas Snow will meet Luis Orlando Del Valle (21-2, 16 KO’s) in the co-feature bout of nationally televised show live on BET.

The show is promoted by Roc Nation Sports.

Snow of Washington, DC has a record of 18-2 with 12 knockouts and this is a big opportunity fighting on a big platform.
“Training camp went great.  It was a perfect camp and now it is time to do something, and I am going out there to get the win.”
Asked what he knew about Del Valle, Snow did know much other than some basic information.
“Del Valle is a conventional fighter from Puerto Rico.  He has a similar record, but hasn’t fought many good guys.  I saw his fight with (former world champion) Vic Darchinyan.  (A fight that Del Valle lost via unanimous decision in 2012).
This is a fight that most boxing experts believe is a crossroads fight, with the winner leaping into contention, but Snow does not feel the pressure of  the fight.

“I think he has more to lose then me.  I am moving up two weight classes.  I would prefer to be fighting at 115 pounds, but the opportunities have been coming at higher weights.  With that being said, I don’t think he is on my level.  So I am confident in this fight and the win will be an awesome breakthrough.”
Despite fighting in his hometown, Snow does not think that plays any part in who will win the fight.
“There is no advantage to that.  In boxing, it just takes one punch and that crowd I not help that.”
“I know what I did in training camp and I am prepared.  I am not fearful of any man.  God blessed me with skills and I am going to do the work.  I just know by keeping God in your life, everything will go great for you.”
Said Snow’s promoter, Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions, “This is a great opportunity for Thomas.  He has shown throughout his career that he has talent.  His only losses have been to undefeated guys, but he has had a tremendous camp, and  on Friday night he will show that he should be one of the top contenders in the super bantamweight division”
BET Network, boxing, Roc Nation

throne boxing PRESENTED BY ROC NATION SPORTS AND CORONA EXTRA WASHINGTON, D.C.’S UNDEFEATED DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON VS. MIKE DALLAS JR. MAIN EVENT & UNDERCARD FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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FIGHTS SET FOR FRIDAY, MAY 13

AT THE DC ARMORY IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

TELEVISED LIVE ON BET AND

STREAMED LIVE GLOBALLY ON TIDAL.COM

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Roc Nation Sports/Tom Hogan Photography

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 11, 2016) – On Wednesday, May 11, Washington, D.C.’s undefeated Dusty Hernandez-Harrison (29-0, 16 KOs) and Bakersfield, California’s Mike “The Silent Assassin” Dallas Jr. (21-3-1, 10 KOs) participated in the final press conference at The Hamilton Live in Washington, D.C. in advance of their May 13 fight at the DC Armory. Hernandez-Harrison vs. Dallas Jr. will headline a throne boxing event in a 10-round welterweight bout that will be televised live on BET beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT and streamed live on global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL.com. Co-featured fighters including Dorado, Puerto Rico’s Orlando “Orlandito” Del Valle (20-2, 15 KOs) who faces Thomas “KO” Snow (18-2, 12 KOs) of Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia heavyweight prospect Darmani “Rock Solid” Rock (Pro Debut) who takes on the beltway’s ownCarlos “DC Diamond Cutter” Black (1-3) were also in attendance at the press conference on Wednesday.

 

Below is what the fighters, promoter and other dais guests had to say at the press conference:

 

DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON:

 

“I want to thank Mike Dallas Jr. for coming into D.C. He has my respect for coming into my hometown and fighting. I’m really ready for this fight. I may have gotten in the best sparring that any fighter has ever gotten [for a fight]. I went from [sparring with] Canelo and came home to spar with Demetrius Hopkins, Austin Trout and Lamont Peterson. I don’t know if there’s better sparring than that. Camp has been great. I’m definitely ready for the fight. I want to thank FILA and Geico for supporting me. I hope everyone comes out on Friday, May 13 at the DC Armory. I know we will put on a good show.”

 

 

MIKE “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” DALLAS JR.:

 

“I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity and keeping me strong through hard times. I had a good camp. I want to thank BET for having me on. Come Friday, it’s going to be a good fight. I’m mentally and physically there. I dug deep in camp and I’m ready to bring it in this fight. I wish my opponent the best. It’s going to be a tough fight. I’m ready to go in there, give it my all and give you guys a great show. Come and watch the fight on May 13.”

 

 

ORLANDO “ORLANDITO” DEL VALLE:

 

“I would like to thank God, Roc Nation Sports and their entire staff for believing in me and giving me a second shot at my career. I won’t let you guys down. Becoming a world champion will be my only way to thank you guys so after this fight I’m ready for that.

 

“Thank you BET and TIDAL for allowing us to showcase our skills on national TV and over the internet so that boxing fans around the world can have a glimpse of what the near future holds.

 

“This fight means a lot to me. It’s the biggest fight of my career. I need to win this fight if I really want to get closer to a title shot. I’m in the greatest condition and shape of my life. On Friday night, expect nothing but fireworks from Orlando Del Valle. I guarantee you that a title shot for Orlando Del Valle will be coming. A champion for Roc Nation Sports is very, very close. So once again, thank you all and don’t miss the action on Friday night.”

 

 

DARMANI “ROCK SOLID” ROCK:

 

“I’m just looking forward to seeing everyone come out on May 13 at the DC Armory when I make my pro debut.”

 

 

DAVID ITSKOWITCH, COO Boxing – Roc Nation Sports:

 

“An action packed undercard of emerging and established talent and exciting entertainment from the boxing hotbed of Washington, D.C. telecast live on BET and streamed live on TIDAL.com…May 13 is an event that no one should miss.

 

“This event would not have been possible without the support of a number of people and organizations and I would like to take a moment to thank the following…our sponsors: Corona, FILA, Corporate Travel Management Solutions (ctms), Glad, Shoe City, Pepsi, RCN and The DC Lottery. I’d also like to thank Stephen Hill, Connie Orlando and their team at BET as well as Greg O’Dell and the staff of Events DC for helping us bring a throne boxing event to Washington, D.C.

 

“BET’s vision and commitment for putting together innovative live entertainment is a big reason why we are here today. We are thrilled to be partnered with BET to bring another throne boxing event to fans across the country. We’re also excited about the fact that as a non-traditional boxing network, they have thrown their hat into the ring which we believe has, and will continue to, attract new fans to the sport.

 

“Events DC works tirelessly to bring high profile events to Washington, D.C. and of late, they have helped to turn the District into a boxing hotbed.

 

 

STEPHEN HILL, President of Programming – BET:

 

“BET Networks is excited to partner with Roc Nation Sports to broadcast the second live throne boxingevent on BET. Friday, May 13 will be lucky for us as we get to bring to the world this top-notch sporting event showcase including live entertainment from Roc Nation’s own Justine Skye, DJ Cipha Sounds and BET personality Big Tigger, who will be welcomed back to BET with open arms.

 

“At BET Networks we’re committed to delivering more variety and original programming and like throne boxing, our content is engaging, emotional and entertaining. We are thrilled to welcome throne boxingback to BET. We know audiences love live sporting events like boxing, so this partnership fits like a glove.

 

“Last but not least, thank you to Washington D.C., the birthplace of BET Networks, and myself, for hosting us in this great city. We look forward to a great fight on Friday night.”

 

 

ERIK MOSES, Senior Vice President and Managing Director – Events DC Sports and Entertainment Division:

 

“Boxing is back in Washington in a very big way. We have had the pleasure of hosting three championship bouts in the last three months at the DC Armory, which is a great place to watch a fight if you have not been there.

 

“This fight card in particular has a very special place in my heart, as it should for others from Washington, because it’s about as local as it can be. We’ve got a hometown hero, who, if you have not seen him fight, see him now before you can’t afford to see him. Dusty Hernandez-Harrison is going to be a big star and he represents Washington, D.C. in a way that few do. Check him out now before you’re paying big money in Vegas to see him fight.

 

“The fight is also being broadcasted by another home-grown institution, and that is BET. It’s great to see sports back on BET, and boxing in particular, coming from the DC Armory as the host venue. Tickets are still available. We look forward to hosting everyone who wants to come out and cheer on all these fighters, but Dusty in particular so we can have another championship fighter in D.C.”

 

 

ANDREW HUFF, DC Boxing Commission:

 

“Roc Nation Sports and Events DC are helping to ensure that the legacy of the District’s boxing history continues. On behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser, Adam Weers, who is the chairman of the District’s Boxing and Wrestling Commission, Miss Kimberly Lockett, who is another commissioner and myself, welcome to Washington, D.C.”

 

###

 

Hernandez-Harrison vs. Dallas Jr., a 10-round welterweight fight which is presented by Roc Nation Sports takes place Friday, May 13, 2016 at the DC Armory in Washington, D.C. This fight headlines a throne boxing event presented by Corona Extra and will be televised live on BET beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET and streamed live on global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL.com. The event is also sponsored by FILA, Corporate Travel Management Solutions (ctms), Glad, Shoe City, Pepsi, RCN and The DC Lottery. In addition to the great action inside the ring, the May 13 edition of throne boxing on BET will feature several notable Roc Nation Sports touches that offer a unique fan experience including a live musical performance by Justine Skye as well as DJ Cipha Sounds and event host Big Tigger who will keep the energy at a high level throughout the event. Doors open on fight night at 6:30 PM and the first fight begins at 6:45 PM.  Follow the conversation using #throneboxing.

 

Tickets priced at $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes are available at all Ticketmaster locations, online at Ticketmaster.com (http://bit.ly/may13throneboxing) and charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

 

For more information, please visit www.rocnation.com. Follow Roc Nation on Twitter @rocnation, on Instagram @rocnation/@rocnationsports and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation.

 

For additional information, visit www.bet.com. Join the conversation on the following social media platforms: on Twitter by using hashtag #BET #throneboxing and follow at @BET; on Facebook by liking the fan page at www.facebook.com/BET; and on Instagram @betnetworks.

 

For information on the DC Armory, visit www.eventsdc.com and follow on Twitter at @dcsportsent.

BET Network, boxing, Roc Nation

WASHINGTON, D.C.’S UNDEFEATED DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON VS. MIKE DALLAS JR. MAIN EVENT & UNDERCARD MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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throne boxing PRESENTED BY ROC NATION SPORTS AND CORONA EXTRA

 

FIGHTS SET FOR FRIDAY, MAY 13

AT THE DC ARMORY IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

TELEVISED LIVE ON BET AND

STREAMED LIVE GLOBALLY ON TIDAL.COM

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Roc Nation Sports/Tom Hogan Photography

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 11, 2016) – On Tuesday, May 10, Washington, D.C.’s undefeated Dusty Hernandez-Harrison (29-0, 16 KOs) and Bakersfield, California’s Mike “The Silent Assassin” Dallas Jr. (21-3-1, 10 KOs) participated in a media workout at Urban Boxing DC in Washington, D.C. in advance of their May 13 fight at the DC Armory. Hernandez-Harrison vs. Dallas Jr. will headline a throne boxing event in a 10-round welterweight bout that will be televised live on BET beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT and streamed live on global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL.com. Co-featured fighter Thomas “KO” Snow (18-2, 12 KOs) of Washington, D.C., who faces Dorado, Puerto Rico’sOrlando “Orlandito” Del Valle (20-2, 15 KOs), and undercard fighters Mike Balogun (5-0, 4 KOs) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, who will fight Capitol Heights, Maryland’s Devon Mosley (0-4-1), and Greenbelt, Maryland’s Sam “Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed (2-0, 1 KO) of who takes on Damion Reed (2-13, 1 KO) of Danville Virginia were also in attendance during the media workout on Tuesday.

 

After shadow boxing around the ring and a few rounds working the bags, all five fighters participated in interviews with invited media members.

 

Below is what the fighters had to say during the workout:

 

DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON:

 

“I think a lot of people are underestimating Mike Dallas Jr. I think they’re counting him out too early. A lot of times when people come back from a tough loss they train harder, they take it more seriously and erase all the mistakes they made in previous training camps, so that’s what I’m expecting him to do. Luckily Barry Hunter [Hernandez-Harrison’s trainer] knows him well as a fighter, so I’ve been going off of what he says.

“I’ve been getting great sparring in. I came home from sparring Canelo Alvarez and went right into to sparring with Lamont Peterson, Austin Trout, Demetrius Hopkins and other fighters on the card. Just really good sparring.

 

“I’m excited to fight on BET. It’s pretty cool. I think it’s good to bring boxing to a new audience. Hopefully, I put on a good fight to get them entertained. And we have Justine Skye performing before our bout. She’s got a completely different fan base than I do and I think it’s another good way to add a new audience to our event.

 

“I took a lot of things out of training with Canelo at his training camp. It was good to get a different perspective of a training camp. Usually it’s all about me, everything is catered to me and everyone is concerned about me, so it was good to take a step back and see how someone like him at the top level prepares for a world title fight. Luckily, I walked away knowing I’ve been doing everything right.

 

“Fighting in my hometown of Washington, D.C. is better for me. I feel like I have more to fight for. I have more to lose, which for me helps. You’ll never hear me say “no mas” in D.C.

 

“At my age, my preparation changes with every fight. I remember fighting in Connecticut in April then Miami in August, which seems really close, but Billy Briscoe [Hernandez-Harrison’s assistant trainer] was there and said ‘you’ve gotten so much stronger.’ That’s just the age that I am right now. I’m really maturing and getting that man strength. Every fight I feel a lot stronger.”

 

 

MIKE “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” DALLAS JR.:

 

“I feel very good ahead of this fight…confident and strong. I’m just ready to go out there and perform. There’s more pressure on him than me fighting in his hometown.

 

“I’ve gotten good training in for this fight. The Bay Area has a lot of good sparring out there right now. I had good training with Ben Bautista [Dallas Jr.’s trainer] and we’ve been pushing it. I had to dig deep in training to get through it and I’m ready to dig deep in the fight.

 

“I took some time off to let my body rest and heal and to let my mind get together. Now I feel great. I’m ready to come back and get back on top of things. I’m going to go out there and do my thing.

 

“I know Dusty is a pretty good fighter. I know he can box. I’m just ready to go out there, be smart and execute the game plan. I’m ready for people to know I’m back and there mentally. I’m ready to get back in the game and take care of these people in these bigger fights.”

 

 

THOMAS “KO” SNOW:

 

“I know my opponent [Orlando Del Valle] is a conventional fighter from Puerto Rico. He’s a basic fighter…a basic one-two puncher. He’s the best opponent I’ve faced to date. Both of us have two losses, so I know it’s a crossroads fight for us. We’re going to go in there and do what we came to do.

 

“I’ve fought in D.C. a lot of times. It’s my home.

 

 

“It’s awesome because I’ve known Dusty since he was six years old. We used to run together. We were just talking about that over in the corner. If you watch at any of his amateur fights, you’ll hear me in the background cheering him on. I’ve been in his life for a long time and it’s awesome seeing a young guy get his opportunity and make the sport of boxing grow.

 

“I know our amateur program in D.C. is awesome so you have to give a shout out to all the amateurs. D.C. is about to be the mecca of boxing once again. We will have six, seven or eight champions in the District of Columbia. It’s rich with boxing.

 

“I think fighting on BET is a great thing. I think it’s great that boxing is on free TV now and people don’t have to pay for it. For those people who can’t afford those things, I think it’s awesome for them and I think it will make the sport of boxing better.

 

“I’ve changed a lot over the years. I’m supposed to be dead, locked up or in jail. Having God in your life, your perspective of life and everything changes. I’m calm and  comfortable in my situation. I thank God for the opportunity. I thank Roc Nation Sports for the opportunity and I thank everybody who is supporting Thomas “KO” Snow. We’re ready to do it.”

 

 

MIKE BALOGUN:

 

“During my career, when I was playing football, I used boxing as another form of training for cardio. After my career was over, it was natural for me to keep training and now we’re here. Football is a business. I got released and had another opportunity to play in the Canadian Football League as well as the Arena Football League, but football takes a toll on your body and I played the game for a long time. It was just natural for me to transition. I still needed something to stay active, because without activity, I didn’t feel like myself.

 

“I don’t know a lot about my opponent [Devon Mosley]. I know he’s a southpaw just like me That’s pretty much all I know and all I need to know.

 

“I’ve prepared for this fight just like any other fight…hard work and dedicating myself to my craft. At the end of the day I’ll reap the fruits of my labor.”

 

 

SAM “VANILLA GORILLA” CROSSED:

 

“I don’t know much about my opponent [Damion Reed]. I know he is a tall left-handed guy. I only watched a little video of him. I’ve been sparring a lot of left handers and then we just happened to get a left-handed guy, so it worked out pretty well.

 

“I’m still a little disappointed about my last performance in D.C., so I am going to come out and put on a show on Friday, May 13.

 

“Anyone you get in the ring with poses a threat, but at the same time, I am confident in what I have done to prepare. I’ve been sparring guys with 20 pro fights, so, I think I’m good.

 

“I played football and baseball growing up. Basically, what got me into boxing was that I got picked on when I was younger and smacked around on the basketball court. I always said when I grow up I want to be able to beat up the dudes that picked on me. What’s funny is that a lot of guys that bullied me are now begging me for tickets to my fights.”

###

 

Hernandez-Harrison vs. Dallas Jr., a 10-round welterweight fight which is presented by Roc Nation Sports takes place Friday, May 13, 2016 at the DC Armory in Washington, D.C. This fight headlines a throne boxing event presented by Corona Extra and will be televised live on BET beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET and streamed live on global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL.com. The event is also sponsored by FILA, Corporate Travel Management Solutions (ctms), Glad, Shoe City, Pepsi, RCN and The DC Lottery. In addition to the great action inside the ring, the May 13 edition of throne boxing on BET will feature several notable Roc Nation Sports touches that offer a unique fan experience including a live musical performance by Justine Skye as well as DJ Cipha Sounds and event host Big Tigger who will keep the energy at a high level throughout the event. Doors open on fight night at 6:30 PM and the first fight begins at 6:45 PM.  Follow the conversation using #throneboxing.

 

Tickets priced at $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes are available at all Ticketmaster locations, online at Ticketmaster.com (http://bit.ly/may13throneboxing) and charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

 

For more information, please visit www.rocnation.com. Follow Roc Nation on Twitter @rocnation, on Instagram @rocnation/@rocnationsports and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation.

 

For additional information, visit www.bet.com. Join the conversation on the following social media platforms: on Twitter by using hashtag #BET #throneboxing and follow at @BET; on Facebook by liking the fan page at www.facebook.com/BET; and on Instagram @betnetworks.

 

For information on the DC Armory, visit www.eventsdc.com and follow on Twitter at @dcsportsent.

boxing

Brooker decisions Aikens; Cintron decisions Flores in front of big crowd in Philadelphia

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Plus video comments from the two winners
For Immediate Release
Philadelphia, PA (May 7, 2016)– Christopher Brooker won a 8-round unanimous decision over Antowyan Aikens that headlined a 10-bout card at a nearly sold-out 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.
The card was promoted by King’s Promotions
In round one, both guys were cut from an accidental headbutt.  Brooker over the left eye and Aikens over the right.  In round three, Brooker scored a knockdown when he landed a left hook that sent Aikens to the canvas.  Aikens was not hurt as he jumped right up and argued with referee Shawn Clark that it should have been ruled a slip.  Brooker continued to get the best of the action as he pushed the pace and he took the bout by scores of 80-71 and 79-72 twice to raise his mark to 9-1.  Aikens of Atlantic City is 12-2.
 
Kermit Cintron pounded out a 6-round unanimous decision over Eduardo Flores in a junior middleweight bout.
Cintron was systematic with his punches and worked well to the body and head.  Flores was a game opponent who tried and got in a few decent shots of his own.
In the end, Cintron a former world champion making his first start in 27-months, fought well and got some needed rounds in and won all cards by 60-54 scores.
Cintron of Reading, PA is now 36-5-2.  Flores is 23-21-3.
Naim Nelson won a 6-round unanimous decision over Carlos Velasquez in a junior welterweight bout.
Nelson of Philadelphia won all cards 60-54 and is now 13-1, 1 NC.  Velasquez of Managua, Nicaragua is 24-24-2.
Scott Kelleher thrilled the crowd with a three-round beatdown of Terrell James in a scheduled four round junior welterweight bout.
Kelleher landed hard power shots over the first two rounds as he dived up his punches between the body and head.  Kelleher landed some vicious body shots in round three and assaulted James with a hard flurry in the corner until referee Blair Talmidge stopped the bout at 2:23 of round three.
Kelleher of Philadelphia is 5-0 with three knockouts.  James of Philadelphia is 1-4-1.
Erik Spring won a 6-round split decision over Justin Johnson in a junior middleweight bout.
Spring controlled the bout, yet somehow Johnson took a card 59-55.  That was overruled by 60-54 and 59-55 scores in favor of Spring.
Spring of Reading, PA. is now 7-1.  Johnson of Pittsburgh is 6-12-4.

Aaron Brooks made a successful pro debut with a 4-round unanimous decision over Ryan Bivins in a battle of Philadelphia based super middleweights.

In round three, Brooks landed a couple of right hands that hurt Bivins and his glove ultimately touched the canvas for a knockdown. In the fourth round, another right hand hurt Bivins and he went down on a slow reaction.
Brooks won by scores of 40-34 twice and 39-36.  Bivins falls to 0-2-1.
Thomas Velasquez scored a thudding second round stoppage over Grashino Yancy in a scheduled four round junior lightweight bout.
Velasquez landed a perfect left hook to the head that sent Yancy down in the corner.  he could not beat referee Shawn Clark’s count at 1:39 of round two.
Velasquez, 131.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 5-0 with four knockouts.  Yancy, 131.2 lbs of Staten Island, NY is 1-1.
 
Tyrone Crawley Jr. pounded out a 4-round unanimous decision over Korey Sloane in a lightweight bout.

Crawley of Philadelphia won by 40-36 tallies on all cards and is now 5-0.  Sloane of Philadelphia is 2-9-2.

Emmanuel Folly scored a stoppage after round one of his scheduled 4-round featherweight bout with Bryan Perez.

Perez injured his hand and the bout was stopped in the corner.

Folly of Philadelphia is 7-0 with five knockouts.  Perez of Carolina, PR is 2-4-1.

Amir Shabazz won a 4-round unanimous decision over Tahlik Taylor in a Lightweight bout.

Shabazz scored a knockdown in round one from a right hand.

Shabazz, 174.4 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 39-36 on all cards and is now 4-0.  Taylor, 174.9 lbs of Freeport, NY is now 1-4.

Christopher Brooker
Christopher Brooker
Kermit Cintron
Kermit Cintron
boxing, Roc Nation

ROC NATION SPORTS ANNOUNCES CO-FEATURE & NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD FOR DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON AND MIKE DALLAS JR. WELTERWEIGHT SHOWDOWN ON FRIDAY, MAY 13 AT THE DC ARMORY IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

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throne boxing PRESENTED BY ROC NATION SPORTS AND CORONA EXTRA FEATURES HERNANDEZ-HARRISON VS. DALLAS JR., ORLANDO DEL VALLE VS. THOMAS SNOW AND DARMANI ROCK VS. CARLOS BLACK TELEVISED LIVE ON BET BEGINNING AT 10:00 P.M. ET/PT

 

EVENT ALSO TO BE STREAMED LIVE GLOBALLY ON TIDAL.COM

 

JUSTINE SKYE, DJ CIPHA SOUNDS & HOST BIG TIGGER TO PROVIDE IN-ARENA ENTERTAINMENT BETWEEN BOUTS

 

NEW YORK, NY (May 5, 2016) – Two televised bouts and four non-televised undercard bouts will round out the card when Dusty Hernandez-Harrison (29-0, 16 KOs) of Washington, D.C. returns to the ring on Friday, May 13 to take on Bakersfield, California’s Mike “The Silent Assassin” Dallas Jr. (21-3-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight bout at the DC Armory in Washington, D.C. The fight will headline a throne boxing event that will be televised live on BET beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET and will also be streamed live on global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL.com.

 

Opening the telecast will be an eight-round featherweight showdown between Orlando “Orlandito” Del Valle(20-2, 15 KOs) and Thomas “KO” Snow (18-2, 5 KOs). The second televised fight will see the professional debut of highly touted Philadelphia heavyweight prospect Darmani “Rock Solid” Rock against the beltway’s own Carlos “DC Diamond Cutter” Black (1-3).

 

The non-televised undercard will feature Caguas, Puerto Rico’s Abner “Pin” Cotto (19-3, 9 KOs) against veteran Juan Jose “Pinocho” Beltran (29-25-3, 18 KOs) of Los Mochis, Mexico in an eight-round junior welterweight matchup; Brooklyn’s undefeated Junior “The Young God” Younan (8-0, 6 KOs) facing Breedon, West Virginia’s Austin “Speedy” Marcum (10-6-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight fight; former NFL linebacker Mike Balogun (5-0, KOs) of Upper Marlborough, Maryland and Devon Mosley (0-4-1) of Capitol Heights, Maryland squaring off in a four-round heavyweight bout; and Greenbelt, Maryland’s Sam “Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed (2-0, 1 KO) against Damion Reed (2-13, 1 KO) of Danville, Virginia in a four-round cruiserweight fight. 2008 Olympic Silver Medalist Zhang “Big Bang” Zhilei (8-0, 6 KOs) of Zhengzhou, China will also see action in a six-round heavyweight bout against an opponent to be determined.

 

Roc Nation Sports will bring names from the entertainment world to the event, which will showcase a special performance by Roc Nation’s own breakout artist singer/songwriter Justine Skye. The Brooklyn songstress and social media maven who garnered attention, and over two million YouTube views, with her cover of Drake’s “Headlines” and current single, “I’m Yours” featuring Vic Mensa, is currently taking over radio airwaves nationwide. The evening will also feature a DJ set from Roc Nation’s multi-talented Cipha Sounds who will keep the energy up between bouts. Darian “Big Tigger” Morgan, afternoon host on Atlanta’s V-103, former host of BET’s Rap City and 106 & Park, and currently featured on Oxygen’s “Like A Boss”, will serve as the event’s host.

 

Tickets priced at $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes are available at all Ticketmaster locations, online at Ticketmaster.com (http://bit.ly/may13throneboxing ) and charge by phone at (800) 745-3000.

 

Orlando Del Valle made his professional debut on April 11, 2008 at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey where he knocked out Rey Rivera in the third round. By October 2009, he had compiled a record of 7-0, including a third-round knockout victory over Christopher Rivera at Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico. On June 6, 2011, at Roseland Ballroom in New York City, he notched an impressive ten-round unanimous decision victory over Dat Nguyen in a fight telecast on Showtime’s ShoBox. On September 29, 2012, Del Valle, with a record of 16-0, made is HBO debut at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods Resort in Mashantucket, Connecticut against Three-Time World Champion Vic “The Raging Bull” Darchinyan. Darchinyan controlled a majority of the bout, relying on his experience to pressure the young contender. In the ninth round Del Valle’s perseverance almost carried the day when he staggered Darchinyan with a tremendous left hook, badly hurting the former world champion. Darchinyan, however, was able to survive the round and hold on for a ten-round unanimous decision victory. After the defeat, Del Valle moved to Mexico City to train with Hall of Fame trainer Nacho Beristain. He rebounded in 2013 with two technical knockout victories over Andre Wilson and Juan Jose Beltran. On May 31, 2014, in a bout televised by HBO Latino from the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Del Valle faced another tough opponent in undefeated fellow Puerto Rican Luis Rosa. The ten-round, evenly matched fight went the distance producing a memorable, crowd-pleasing battle. In the fifth round, Del Valle sent Rosa to the canvas with a left hook and in the seventh round Rosa was deducted a point for a late punch, but in the end Rosa was awarded a unanimous decision victory. Since the Rosa setback, Del Valle has won all three of his fights, with none of them going the distance, including his last fight on April 9, in which he scored a second round technical knockout win over Josh Crespo at Rockingham Park in Salem, New Hampshire. Del Valle will look to keep that streak going on May 13 against Snow.

 

Deeply rooted in D.C. and the capital community, Thomas Snow is an experienced fighter with an impressive record of 18-2 (10 KOs). Snow, who supplements his boxing earnings by working as a floor technician at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, Maryland, began boxing at the age of ten at Round One Gym in Capitol Heights, Maryland, compiling a stellar amateur record of 129-10, which included three Washington D.C. Metro Golden Gloves championships. In 2004, he took home the national PAL amateur tournament title in the 119-pound weight class. On November 5, 2005, he made his professional debut with authority, knocking out Ronald Viera in the first round at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He would go on to win his next nine fights, with seven of those wins coming by way of knockout, before he ran into fellow undefeated prospect and future world title challenger Teon Kennedy who dealt Snow his first professional loss in July of 2008. A streak of six consecutive wins would follow before he suffered another setback, again against an undefeated prospect in Nate Green. Following the defeat, Snow took nearly two and a half years off from boxing. The southpaw returned to the ring on March 6, 2015 and continued to live up to his “KO” moniker with a first round technical knockout win over Christopher Sanchez at the Omar Shrine in Charleston, South Carolina. Snow followed that win with a second round knockout of Tibor Nadori on December 4, 2015 at the Rosecroft Raceway close to home in Fort Washington, Maryland. He now faces a crossroads fight when he takes on Del Valle on May 13.

 

At the age of nineteen, Darmani Rock is already drawing comparisons to former heavyweight greats of the past. Rock has received high praise for his powerful jab and ambidexterity. Standing at 6’4”, he moves with an unparalleled lightness and speed for a fighter his size. Rock earned nation-wide accolades following a banner year in 2014 when he took home the USA Boxing Junior and Youth Open, Youth Continental and Youth World super heavyweight titles. During the 2014 Junior and Youth Open in Reno, Nevada, Rock shut out the 2013 National Youth Champion, John Luna, 3-0. This impressive performance was followed by another super heavyweight title at the Youth Continental Championships in March 2014 in Quito, Ecuador where he defeated Argentina’s Kervin Espinola, 3-0. Rock then took home the gold medal at the prestigious World Youth Championships in Bulgaria in April 2014 by a 2-1 decision over Germany’s Peter Kadiru. Rock also took home the 2014 World Junior Amateur Championship and capped off 2014 by being named Philadelphia’s Amateur Boxer of the Year at the annual Briscoe Awards. His most noteworthy win, however, came in May 2015 when he beat Cam Awesome, a career amateur who has been called the next Chris Byrd, in Las Vegas for the National Golden Gloves title. Rock also captured the 2015 U.S. National Amateur super heavyweight championship. He ended his amateur career as the number one rated super heavyweight in the United States (and the number five rated super heavyweight in the world) going 19-5 in national tournaments. His assault on the heavyweight division begins May 13 against Black.

 

Rockville, Maryland resident Carlos Black is better known to capitol region boxing as the “DC Diamond Cutter.” Turning professional late in life at the age of thirty, making his professional debut on April 23, 2015 at Tall Cedar’s Hall in Baltimore, Maryland scoring a four-round unanimous decision over the more experienced Lonnie Kornegay. Black, however, would fall short of victory in his next three bouts to George Arias on May 8, 2015 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, to Dennis Benson by a hard-fought four-round split decision in his return to Tall Cedar’s Hall on July 9, 2015 and to Jerry Forrest on September 26, 2015 at the Masonic Temple in Norfolk, Virginia. Tough like his nickname and propelled by his steadfast will, he believes he can one day fulfill his dream of becoming heavyweight champion of the world. That dream will come a step closer to reality should he defeat the highly touted Rock.

 

Abner Cotto is part of the famous Cotto boxing family of Puerto Rico. Legendary Miguel Cotto is a second cousin, while uncles Miguel Cotto Sr. and Evangelista Cotto were pro boxers themselves. Cotto is looking for his second straight win following a loss in a world-title elimination bout against current WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Javier Fortuna. On May 13 he faces the vastly experienced Juan Jose Beltran who has faced current World Champion Leo Santa Cruz and former World Champions Eric Morel and Rico Ramos.

 

Brooklyn’s unbeaten Junior Younan faces his stiffest test to date on May 13 when he faces Austin Marcum. Younan returned following a nine-month injury induced layoff on March 26 on the Andre Ward vs. Sullivan Barrera undercard by pounding out a four-round unanimous decision over Carlos Lozano. Marcum is riding a four-fight winning streak and plans to take his 20-year-old opponent into unfamiliar territory, as Younan has yet to fight past four rounds.

 

Former Washington Redskin Mike Balogun looks to make it six straight wins since turning professional as a boxer in October of 2014. Balogun was a standout inside linebacker at the University of Oklahoma and spent a year on the Redskins’ roster in 2010. He also played briefly for the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers before retiring and becoming a full time boxer. Looking to stop Balogun’s rise as a pugilist on May 13 will be fellow local fighter Devon Mosley who is seeking his first professional win.

 

Local favorite Sam Crossed, has limited amateur experience, which his opponent Damion Reed, a 16-fight veteran hopes to exploit. Crossed, who works as bar tender, is expected to have hundreds of supporters behind him as he attempts to go to 3-0. Reed recently lost two hard-fought majority decisions to two cruiserweights and has a draw with Ken Moody.

 

Standing 6’6” and weighing 250 pounds, Chinese heavyweight sensation Zhang Zhilei has shown boxing skills rarely seen in a big man since turning pro in August 2014. Undefeated in eight fights as a professional, Zhilei was a highly-decorated amateur, winning a silver medal in the super-heavyweight division at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, as well as bronze medals at the 2007 world amateur championships and 2009 AIBA world championships. He faces an opponent to be determined on May 13.

 

Hernandez-Harrison vs. Dallas Jr., a 10-round welterweight fight which is presented by Roc Nation Sports takes place Friday, May 13, 2016 at the DC Armory in Washington, D.C. This fight headlines a throne boxing event presented by Corona Extra and will be televised live on BET beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET and streamed live on global music and entertainment platform, TIDAL.com. The event is also sponsored by FILA, Corporate Travel Management Solutions (ctms), Glad, Shoe City, Pepsi, RCN and The DC Lottery. In addition to the great action inside the ring, the May 13 edition of throne boxing on BET will feature several notable Roc Nation Sports touches that offer a unique fan experience including a live musical performance by Justine Skye as well as DJ Cipha Sounds and event host Big Tigger who will keep the energy at a high level throughout the event. Follow the conversation using #throneboxing.

 

For more information, please visit www.rocnation.com. Follow Roc Nation on Twitter @rocnation, on Instagram @rocnation/@rocnationsports and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation.

 

For more information, visit www.bet.com. Join the conversation on the following social media platforms: on Twitter by using hashtag #BET #throneboxing and follow at @BET; on Facebook by liking the fan page atwww.facebook.com/BET; and on Instagram @betnetworks.

 

For more information on the DC Armory, visit www.eventsdc.com and follow on Twitter at @dcsportsent.