Tag Archives: Premier Boxing Champions

CUBAN SENSATION ERISLANDY LARA TO FACE DELVIN RODRIGUEZ AS PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE RETURNS TO UIC PAVILION IN CHICAGO ON FRIDAY, JUNE 12

 

 

 

KNOCKOUT ARTIST ARTUR BETERBIEV TO FACE DOUDOU NGUMBU

 

Cuban boxing sensation Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (20-2-2, 12 KOs)returns to the ring on Friday, June 12 to face veteran Delvin Rodriguez (28-7-4, 16 KOs) as Premier Boxing Champions heads back to Spike.

 

Additionally, Russian knockout artist Artur Beterbiev (8-0, 8 KOs) is set to square off against the ring-savvy Doudou Ngumbu (34-6, 13 KOs) of Haute-Garonne, France.

 

This edition of PBC on Spike begins at 9 p.m. ET. Doors at UIC Pavilion open at 5 p.m. CT with the first fight set for 5:30 p.m. CT.

 

“I’m very excited to be fighting on Spike TV on June 12th in Chicago.” said Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara. “Delvin Rodriguez is a tough veteran fighter who I respect.  He has a lot of heart and determination. But once the bell rings I’m looking for the knockout!”

 

“On June 12, I am going to change everyone’s mind about me and show that I can beat Lara,” said Rodriguez.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing in association with Group Yvon Michel (GYM), are priced at $151, $101, $51, and $31, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).

 

The 32-year-old Lara is a slick boxer with the ability to deliver punishment while taking very little of it in return.  Lara has notched victories over Alfredo Angulo, Austin Trout and Freddy Hernandez throughout his career. As an amateur, Lara won numerous titles including a national championship at welterweight and also participated in the 2007 Pan-Am games. The fighter originally from Guantanamo, Cuba but fighting out of Houston most recently defeated former world champion Ishe Smith on his way to his 20th professional victory.

 

Already deep into an accomplished career, the 35-year-old Rodriguez looks to give Lara a stiff test and entertain the crowd at UIC Pavilion on June 12. Having battled the likes of Miguel Cotto and Austin Trout, Rodriguez has also picked up victories over Mike Arnaoutis, Pawel Wolak and Shamone Alvarez throughout his accomplished career. Born in Santiago de le Caballeros, Dominican Republic but fighting out of Danbury, Connecticut, Rodriguez will look to improve on his last outing, a draw against Joachim Alcine in May 2014.

 

Having floored every opponent he’s faced professionally, the now 30-year-old former amateur standout Beterbiev will be seeking to keep his knockout streak alive in Chicago. Having notched impressive wins over Tavoris Cloud in 2014 and Gabriel Campillo earlier this year, the heavy-fisted Russian knows he’ll be tested with an experienced opponent on June 12.

 

Following a hard-fought loss to Andrzej Fonfara in November 2014, France’s Ngumburebounded nicely with a knockout win in January of this year. The battle-tested 33-year-old veteran will look to use his wealth of professional experience at UIC Pavilion in order to emerge victorious.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaraBoxing, @DRodriguez1980, @WarriorsBoxProm and @SpikeTV and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo and www.Facebook.com/Spike.

AMIR KHAN SECURES UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER CHRIS ALGIERI   JAVIER FORTUNA WINS UNANIMOUS DECISION OVER BRYAN VASQUEZ

 

Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

Click HERE For Photos From Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions

 

BROOKLYN (May 30, 2015) – Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spikereturned to Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Friday night with another explosive night of bouts for fight fans. In the main event, Amir “King” Khan (31-3, 19 KOs) scored a crafty and hard fought unanimous decision over Chris Algieri (20-2, 8 KOs) and Javier Fortuna (28-0-1, 20 KOs) won a crowd-pleasing unanimous decision victory over Bryan Vasquez (34-2, 18 KOs) in the televised opener.

 

Below are comments made by the televised fighters after their performances tonight:

 

AMIR KHAN

 

“I thought I worked well inside. I’ve never done a lot of work in the pocket like that and I plan to do more of that in the future.

 

“I give Chris a lot of credit. He came forward a lot more than we thought he would and he had a big chin tonight.

 

“Chris gave it his all tonight. This is the best Algieri we’ve seen in a long time, and if he’d have fought Manny (Pacquiao) that way he might have won.

 

“Everyone knows I want Floyd (Mayweather) next after all the talk about it, but when you wait and hope for something for this long it can set you back. I don’t want to overlook any other fighters, including Chris.

 

“My first show with PBC has been great. The New York crowd was awesome and really got into it. The promotion was excellent and I’m proud to be a part of this team.”

 

CHRIS ALGIERI

 

“I thought I pressured Khan well and got my touches. He definitely didn’t like it when I got into his body.

 

“I thought I hurt him several times, but Khan’s a cagey fighter and he spins off. I guess the judges liked that tonight. I would think the cleaner, harder shots would get a little more respect.

 

“I think PBC is fantastic. The focus is on the fighters, not the politics or the promoters. This is helping bring the sport back to boxing’s glory days of primetime events for the fans.

 

“I haven’t thought much about after this fight. I’m disappointed, but I’ll watch the film from this fight and we’ll go from there.”

 

JAVIER FORTUNA

 

“I’m very surprised that the fight went the distance. Vasquez is a strong fighter. After the fifth round, I was boxing to score points.

 

“I was never really hurt by Vasquez, but I hurt my own hand on his head.

 

“Vasquez didn’t really affect me throughout the fight. The swelling on my eye is from a headbutt.

 

“The biggest key to my success tonight was my training. Before this I didn’t have the stamina that I needed. However, after my work with Hector Bermudez leading up to this fight I was more than ready.

 

“Becoming a champion here in New York is huge for me. I’m very proud of my performance tonight.”

 

BRYAN VASQUEZ

 

“My style is to box and then move. Fortuna fought a smart fight tonight. He wouldn’t engage me and fight.

 

“Fortuna used his head and elbows a lot tonight, but I don’t want to use that as an excuse. I tried telling the referee, but nothing was done.

 

“I worked very hard for three months of training to get to this fight. I hope I won over some fans today because I fight to please them.

 

“Hopefully I get a rematch because this is not the end of my career, and I’d love the chance to take that belt from Fortuna.

 

“I want to thank PBC for this opportunity. It was great being a part of this show and I hope they’ll think of me again in the future.”

 

# # #

The card was promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Star Boxing. For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella and @SpikeTV and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingand www.Facebook.com/Spike.

ROBERT GUERRERO MEDIA WORKOUTS QUOTES & PHOTOS AHEAD OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FIGHT AGAINST ARON MARTINEZ JUNE 6 LIVE FROM STUBHUB CENTER

Click HERE For More Photos From Team Guerrero

AROMAS, CA(May 28, 2015)- Four-Division world champion, “Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (32-3-1, 18 KOs) hosted a media workout yesterday at the CrossFit Ranch to shed light on his upcoming fight with Aron Martinez.  The 10-round main-event bout will take place at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., June 6, 2015 and will air live on NBC starting at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT.

 

Guerrero, who won the hearts of America with his gut wrenching performance against Keith Thurman in his last fight, is looking forward to another main-event attraction where he can showcase his entertaining fighting style to the fans.

 

“All the hard training is done and now it’s time to zone in,” said Robert Guerrero. “Everyone should be watching the PBC on NBC June 6thbecause I believe this is going to be a crowd-pleasing fight.  Aron Martinez is not coming to lay down.  He’s had plenty of time to prepare for this fight and I’m expecting him to come out guns blazing.  One thing is for sure, I’m going to be throwing some hard shots right from the opening bell.  My goal is to bring an entertaining fight to the fans and let my hands go.  Fight night can’t come soon enough.”

 

Headlining his second PBC on NBC, Guerrero wants continue fighting on a regular basis.  Known for being an all-out action fighter, Guerrero feels he can close out the rest of 2015 with a bang.

 

“I can’t emphasize how important it is for me to be fighting back to back in just a couple of months,” Guerrero continued. “Staying active is crucial to any fighter.  The more you fight the better you perform and I can feel the improvement in my whole fighting style.  If possible, I want to fight two more times before the year ends, but first I must get past Martinez.”

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NBCSports, @GHOSTBOXING, @ElPerro82, @JesusCuellarBOX & @VicDarchinyan and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, andwww.facebook.com/NBCSports.

U.S. OLYMPIAN AND UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT DOMINIC BREAZEALE FACES UNDEFEATED CUBAN YASMANY CONSUEGRA ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC

 

Televised Coverage Begins on Saturday, June 6 At 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT

 

Card Also Features Exciting Featherweight Showdown Between
Jesus Cuellar & Vic Darchinyan

 

Plus! Hard-Hitting Alfredo Angulo Battles Delray Raines & A Full Slate Of Top Prospects & Local Favorites In Undercard Action

 

CARSON, CALIF (May 28, 2015) – 2012 U.S. Olympian Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (14-0, 13 KOs) battles Yasmany Consuegra (17-0, 14 KOs) in an explosive matchup between two undefeated heavyweights that will kick off the Premier Boxing Champions on NBC telecast Saturday, June 6 from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. with televised coverage beginning at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT.

 

This eight round heavyweight attraction will support the afternoon’s main event, which pits former four-division world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (32-3-1, 18 KOs) against Aron Martinez (19-3-1, 14 KOs). Also featured on the card is the 12-round featherweight showdown between Jesus Cuellar (26-1, 20 KOs) and Vic Darchinyan(40-7-1, 29 KOs).

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $200, $150, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.

 

Also featured is Mexican warrior and former world champion Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo(22-5, 18 KOs) who returns to the ring to battle Delray Raines (20-10-1, 14 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight bout. Another former world champion returns to action as Marvin Sonsona (19-1-1, 15 KOs) takes on Jonathan Arellano (15-5-2, 3 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight bout.

 

Further undercard bouts pit 2012 Mexican Olympian Oscar Molina (12-0, 10 KOs) against Todd Manuel (10-5-1, 1 KO) in eight rounds of super lightweight action while undefeated prospect Alejandro Luna (17-0, 13 KOs) takes on former world championCristobal Cruz (40-15-3, 24 KOs) in an eight round super lightweight bout.

 

Rounding out the undercard action is Carlos Morales (7-1-3, 2 KOs) facing Juan Ruiz(24-17, 7 KOs) in an eight round lightweight bout, undefeated prospect Fabian Maidana(6-0, 5 KOs) going up against Julius Dyes (3-1, 2 KOs) in six rounds of welterweight action and undefeated prospect Anthony Flores (7-0, 5 KOs)taking on fellow unbeatenErick Bossler (3-0, 2 KOs) in a six round welterweight attraction.

 

A 2012 U.S. Olympian, Breazeale (13-0, 12 KOs) has been nearly perfect in recording knockouts as a pro, having only gone the distance in one fight. The 29-year-old looks to keep his undefeated record intact on June 6 when he faces the toughest challenge of his career. Most recently the Glendale, California native survived an early knockdown against Victor Brisbal on his way to eventually recording a fourth round stoppage.

 

Undefeated since turning pro in 2010, the 31-year-old Consuegra is looking to make a big splash when he faces fellow unbeaten Breazeale on June 6. Fighting out of Miami by way of Cienfuegos, Cuba, Consuegra got off to a good start in 2015 with an eight round unanimous decision over Tauraus Sykes in March. Before that decision, he had knocked out 13 straight opponents as he built up his perfect record.

 

A fast-rising star out of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Cuellar looks to make it 10 victories in a row when he battles Darchinyan on June 6. His power in both hands has led him to six knockouts of his last nine victories including a second round destruction of Puerto Rican icon Juan Manuel Lopez in Sept. 2014. The 28-year-old will make his first career start in California when he enters the ring at StubHub Center.

 

Looking to put himself back into the discussion of top featherweights, the 39-year-oldDarchinyan comes in with the kind of experience to topple the explosive Cuellar. A former world champion, the fighter from Armenia who fights out of Glendale, California is coming off of a ninth-round TKO over Juan Jimenez in February of this year. Having fought against top contenders such as Abner Mares, Nonito Donaire and Nicholas

 

A hard fighting Mexican warrior born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico but fighting out of Coachella, Calif., Angulo is looking for a big victory in front of his adopted hometown fans. Always ready to challenge the best in the sport, the 32-year-old has gone toe-to-toe with some of the best fighters in the world and holds knockout victories over Gabriel Rosado, Joachim Alcine and Joel Julio. On June 6 he faces the 29-year-old Raines out of Oklahoma City.

 

A former world champion at super flyweight, the 24-year-old Sonsona most recently defeatedWilfredo Vazquez by unanimous decision in June 2014 in his U.S. debut. Fighting out of General Santos City, Philippines, he will take on the 27-year-old Arellano out of Commerce, California.

 

A 2012 Mexican Olympian, Molina now fights out of Norwalk, California. The 25-year-old is still undefeated as a professional and most recently defeated Jorge Pimentel in April. He returns to the ring to take on the 22-year-old Manuel out of Crowley, Louisiana.

 

At just 23-year-old, Luna has already put together an impressive 17 professional wins since turning pro in 2010. Fighting out of Bellflower, California, he takes on the former world champion Cruz. The 38-year-old fighting out of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico is coming off of a draw against Emanuel Lopez in June 2014.

 

Riding a seven-fight win streak into his June 6 bout, the 25-year-old Morales hopes to keep his winning ways going. The fighter out of Tuloncingo, Mexico will do battle with the 36-year-old Ruiz out of Panorama City, California.

 

Nine years younger than his brother Marcos, the 22-year-old Maidana is currently riding a five fight knockout streak. Representing Santa Fe, Argentina, he will take on Dyes out of Memphis.  

 

A hot welterweight prospect, the 24-year-old Flores will look to represent his hometown of Los Angeles when he takes on the fellow undefeated Bossler out of Chicago.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NBCSports, @GHOSTBOXING, @ElPerro82, @JesusCuellarBOX & @VicDarchinyan and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, andwww.facebook.com/NBCSports.

UNDEFEATED CUBAN SENSATION RANCES BARTHELEMY BATTLES FORMER WORLD CHAMPION ANTONIO DEMARCO ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON CBS

 

SUNDAY, JUNE 21 LIVE ON CBS SPORTS AT 4 P.M. ET/1 P.M. PT

FROM THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

 

Plus Exciting Welterweight Showdown Between

Sammy Vasquez & Wale Omotoso

 

LAS VEGAS (May 28, 2015) – An action-packed showdown between former world champions Rances Barthelemy (22-0, 13 KOs) and Antonio DeMarco (31-4-1, 23 KOs) headlines the next installment Premier Boxing Champions on CBS taking placeSunday, June 21 live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas with televised action beginning at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.

 

Also featured in televised bouts is an explosive welterweight matchup that pits the undefeated Sammy Vasquez (18-0, 13 KOs) against Nigerian knockout artist Wale Omotoso (25-1, 21 KOs).

 

“I’m excited for this big opportunity and I can’t wait to show the world what I’m capable of,” said Barthelemy. “A big fight like this is what I want. I know it will be very difficult, but I’m going to train hard to put on a show for the fans.”

 

“This is a huge fight for me. I’m going to leave everything I have in that ring,” said DeMarco. “The chance to fight on network television is once in a lifetime and I’m going to make the most of it.”

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions are priced at $100, $75, $50, and $25 not including applicable service charges and taxes go on sale Thursday, May 28. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mgmgrand.com orwww.ticketmaster.com.

 

A Cuban amateur national champion, the 28-year-old Barthelemy has yet to taste defeat since turning pro in 2009. Born in Cuba but now fighting out of Las Vegas, he won a super featherweight world title in July of last year by defeating Argenis Mendez in impressive fashion. Most recently he delivered a second round TKO over Angino Perez in March and looks to impress once again when he hits the ring in June.

 

A former world champion in the lightweight division, the 29-year-old DeMarco steps back into the ring to face the undefeated Barthelemy. Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, he owns victories over John Molina Jr., Jorge Linares and Lanardo Tyner. He fights for the second time as a pro in the city of Las Vegas on June 21.

 

The 29-year-old Vasquez has fought professionally since 2012 and served two tours of duty in Iraq as a member of the National Guard. He made it to the semifinals of the 2012 U.S. Olympic trials and won gold at the 2010 and 2011 Armed Forces Boxing Championships. The fighter out of Monessen, Penn., has not lost as a professional and is coming off of a unanimous decision over Emmanuel Lartey in February of this year.

 

Born in Nigeria, but fighting out of Oxnard, Calif., Omotoso is looking to make it three wins in a row when he battles Vasquez. His most recent victories were both knockouts as he defeated Abraham Alvarez and Eduardo Flores. The 30-year-old made his U.S. debut in 2011 and has racked up a 7-1 record stateside.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.TGBPromotions.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @SHOSports, @RealKidBlast, @De.Marco07, @SammyV2112, @MayweatherPromo , @TGBPromotions and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing orhttp://shosportspoundforpound.tumblr.com/.

ROBERT “THE GHOST” GUERRERO  TRAINING CAMP UPDATE

FORMER FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION BATTLES

ARON MARTINEZ ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC

SATURDAY, JUNE 6 AT STUBHUB CENTER

 

Coverage on NBC Starts At 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT

 

GILROY, CA (May 26, 2015) – While entering the final days of training camp, four-division world champion, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (32-3-1, 18 KOs), gives his thoughts on his upcoming PBC on NBC main-event attraction against Aron Martinez.  The 10-round bout will take place at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., June 6, 2015and will air live on NBC starting at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT.

On fighting in the PBC on NBC main-event…

“First I really want to thank Al Haymon for bringing boxing back to the fans.  This is another wonderful opportunity where fans from all walks of life can see me fight on NBC for free.  PBC on NBC has taken boxing back to its glory days and I’m honored to be headlining my second show.  Everyone knows I come to fight and you can expect the same when I step in the ring with Martinez.

On staying active…

“When a fighter is constantly staying busy, it makes a world of difference.  My timing is down, my body is used to the rigorous training.  When I’m on the grind, I perform at a much higher level.  This will be the first time I’ve had back to back fights in a very long time.  Everyone watching this fight will see the difference in my fighting style.

On fighting at the StubHub Center…

“The StubHub Center is probably my favorite venue to fight in.  The fans are incredible.  Everyone has a great seat and you can feel the energy from the crowd while you’re fighting.  It’s like there right on top of you.  For some reason the StubHub Center brings out the warrior spirit in everyone.  It’s a great place to fight!”

On training camp…

“Training camp has been going great.  Like I mentioned before, when you stay active, everything flows a lot smoother.  I’ve taken my sparring sessions to a new level.  I’m quicker on my feet and my timing is spot on.  My dad Ruben who trains me, is really happy with my progress.  Everything has come together really nice.  It’s time to go to war!”

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com andwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NBCSports, @GHOSTBOXING, @ElPerro82, @JesusCuellarBOX & @VicDarchinyan and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, andwww.facebook.com/NBCSports.

ROBERT “THE GHOST” GUERRERO TRAINING CAMP UPDATE   FORMER FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION BATTLES ARON MARTINEZ ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC SATURDAY, JUNE 6 AT STUBHUB CENTER

 

Coverage on NBC Starts At 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT

 

Click HERE For Photos From Team Guerrero

 

GILROY, CA (May 26, 2015) – While entering the final days of training camp, four-division world champion, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (32-3-1, 18 KOs), gives his thoughts on his upcoming PBC on NBC main-event attraction against Aron Martinez.  The 10-round bout will take place at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., June 6, 2015 and will air live on NBC starting at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT.

 

On fighting in the PBC on NBC main-event:

“First I really want to thank Al Haymon for bringing boxing back to the fans.  This is another wonderful opportunity where fans from all walks of life can see me fight on NBC for free.  PBC on NBC has taken boxing back to its glory days and I’m honored to be headlining my second show.  Everyone knows I come to fight and you can expect the same when I step in the ring with Martinez.

 

On staying active

“When a fighter is constantly staying busy, it makes a world of difference.  My timing is down, my body is used to the rigorous training.  When I’m on the grind, I perform at a much higher level.  This will be the first time I’ve had back to back fights in a very long time.  Everyone watching this fight will see the difference in my fighting style.

 

On fighting at the StubHub Center

“The StubHub Center is probably my favorite venue to fight in.  The fans are incredible.  Everyone has a great seat and you can feel the energy from the crowd while you’re fighting.  It’s like there right on top of you.  For some reason the StubHub Center brings out the warrior spirit in everyone.  It’s a great place to fight!”

 

On training camp…

“Training camp has been going great.  Like I mentioned before, when you stay active, everything flows a lot smoother.  I’ve taken my sparring sessions to a new level.  I’m quicker on my feet and my timing is spot on.  My dad Ruben who trains me, is really happy with my progress.  Everything has come together really nice.  It’s time to go to war!”

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NBCSports, @GHOSTBOXING, @ElPerro82, @JesusCuellarBOX & @VicDarchinyan and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, andwww.facebook.com/NBCSports.

AMIR KHAN VS. CHRIS ALGIERI LIP SYNC BATTLE AHEAD OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE FIGHT FRIDAY, MAY 29 AT BARCLAYS CENTER

Before they battle it out in Brooklyn, click here or below to watch Amir Khan and Chris Algieri face off on the Lip Sync Battle stage featuring host LL COOL J and Colorful Commentator Chrissy Teigen.

The highly anticipated Amir Khan vs. Chris Algieri fight takes place Friday, May 29th at 9:00pm ET/6:00pm PT LIVE on Spike.

Amir Khan vs. Chris Algieri – “Mama Said Knock You Out”

Friday, May 29th – 9 ET/ 6PT

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

at Barclays Center LIVE ON SPIKE

Amir Khan vs. Chris Algieri

Javier Fortuna vs. Bryan Vasquez

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS


 

(From left to right: Murphys Boxing Ken Casey, Andre Dirrell, DiBella Entertainment’s Lou DiBella, James Degale, Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn & Murphys Boxing Sean Sullivan)

(From left to right: Murphys Boxing Ken Casey, Chris Gilbert, Logan McGuinness, Gary O’Sullivan, Edwin Rodriguez, Andre Dirrell, James DeGale, Craig Baker, Danny O’Connor & Murphys Boxing Sean Sullivan)

 

Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Carly Gillis Photography

 

BOSTON (May 21, 2015) – Fighters participating on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC card took part in the final press conference today at historic Fenway Park in Boston before their respective fights at Agganis Arena, with televised coverage starting at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Murphys Boxing, are priced at $250, $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now.

 

Here are what the press conference participants had to say:

 

ANDRE DIRRELL

 

“A title means everything. It completes you as a fighter. That’s the top of the food chain in this sport, and that’s the pedestal we’re all trying to reach – world champion. Everybody wants to be a world champion. The greats had it and now we want it. It would mean more for my city, my family and my friends, and it’s something I’ll always be able to look back it. It would put me in the record books for life.

 

“DeGale is not quiet. Today he’s chilling, maybe because he’s a little out of his comfort zone. But there’s a lot of tension when you’re standing right there next to your opponent. He might just be a little cranky today.

 

“I like to lighten the mood and stay comfortable. This is all a part of the game. Let’s have fun now. It’s ass-kicking time when we get in that ring, but outside it’s all love.

 

“There was a time when I didn’t want to do interviews. I didn’t want to go to fights. I didn’t want to hear fans online and on social media. I closed all them down because I didn’t want to hear people ask, ‘When are you fighting again? Talking about talent wasted, or saying I’m glad he’s gone.’ It hurt because there was nothing I could do. I was powerless even with all the power in the world.”

 

JAMES DEGALE

 

“Andre says the belt doesn’t mean anything to him in the fight – well, the belt means everything to me and more. I am here to make history and it doesn’t happen without that title.

 

“I could win on Saturday night and retire a happy man – that’s how much I want to beat Andre Dirrell. But when I do win that title, I am going for the rest of the belts, creating a lasting legacy for my country, my fans and myself.

 

“Andre is a classy fighter and he showed in the press conference that he is a classy guy too – when two fighters who believe in their ability 100 percent and know they are going to win a fight, it is going to be explosive.

 

“There’s nothing but respect between us, but ultimately, we’re going to take each other to dark territory on Saturday night, it’s going to be a brutal battle – and one that I am going to win.”

 

EDWIN RODRIGUEZ

 

“This is home for me and I’m thrilled. I know I have a good undefeated fighter in front me, so I’m looking forward to a competitive matchup. It’s going to be a great fight for the fans.

 

“This is an exciting day for me. I saw Pedro Martinez pitch so many times here at Fenway and he’s going into the Hall of Fame. Also, my fellow countrymen Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz have made so much history here.

 

“Being here today and then having the weigh-in at Faneuil Hall tomorrow and fighting on Saturday, it’s just an amazing experience.

 

CRAIG BAKER

 

“This is a great opportunity for me. I’ve dreamed of fighting on a grand scale like this since I first started boxing.

 

“The entire experience has been awesome. It’s going to be an interesting fight. I’m going to keep coming forward. I’m going to keep boxing all night.

 

“Everyone should look forward to an action packed night, I know it’s going to be an interesting matchup.”

 

DANNY O’CONNOR

 

“A couple of years ago Ken Casey and I talked about bringing boxing back to the city of Boston. Fast-forward to today and we’re doing it.

 

“I’m excited to be part of it and to see boxing in Boston blossom. It’s good for the city and all the young boxers in this area.

 

“I know I have a tough opponent in front of me and I won’t take him lightly. I’m planning on putting on a show for the fans come Saturday night.”

 

CHRIS GILBERT

 

“I’m an aggressive come forward, in your face boxer from the first bell to the last.

 

“I was full steam ahead when I got the call for this fight. I train all the time, I don’t take breaks and I’m always looking for an opportunity. I couldn’t be happier.

 

“Danny O’Connor is one of the best in my weight division in New England. Everything he does, he does well.

 

“I just need to keep my head and continue to come forward, I can’t get frustrated. I’m going 100 percent the full way through. If I’m busy and I fight smart I get good outcomes.

 

# # #

 

The Saturday, May 23 edition of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC featuresAndre Dirrell (24-1, 16 KOs) and James DeGale (20-1, 14 KOs) in a 12-round super middleweight showdown and Edwin Rodriguez (26-1, 17 KOs) vs. Craig Baker (16-0, 12 KOs) in 10-round light heavyweight match up. . Live coverage of this special Memorial Day weekend afternoon edition of PBC on NBC starts at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT on NBC and goes until 6:00 pm. ET/3:00 p.m. PT when the action switches over to NBCSN from 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT until 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, www.AgganisArena.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AndreDirrell, @JamesDeGale1, @LouDiBella, @DropkickMurphys, @MurphysBoxing, @NBCSports and @AgganisArena and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports,www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/DropkickMurphys andwww.facebook.com/MurphysBoxing. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #PBConNBC

BIG-TIME BOXING RETURNS TO BOSTON ON SATURDAY, MAY 23 WITH PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC

TAKE A LOOK BACK AT BOSTON’S RICH BOXING HISTORY

 

BOSTON (May 20, 2015) – Boston is known for being home to some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, but many may not know that it is also a city that has had a long and rich history with the sweet science. On Saturday, May 23, world championship boxing is officially back in Beantown when Premier Boxing Champions on NBC returns with a showdown between Andre Dirrell and James DeGale at Boston University’s Agganis Arena with coverage on NBC beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT.

 

The last time Boston saw a world championship fight was May 23, 2006 when two world title fights took place at TD Bank Garden, formerly the Boston Garden. That night saw British superstar Ricky “Hitman” Hatton defeat Luis Collazo in a welterweight world title fight, while Eric Aiken upset previously undefeated Valdemir Pereira for a featherweight world title.

“Fighting in the Boston Garden was a great honor, never mind in a world title fight, but even a four rounder,” said Tony DeMarco, who won the welterweight world title in 1955 at the Boston Garden. “I had more fights there than anybody (28), including my pro debut. It’s always good fighting at home. You’re more comfortable at home. The fans know and honor you. Boston fans were real fight fans.”

 

Boston has been deeply invested in boxing since the early 20th century. From 1902-1908 the small town of Chelsea that borders Boston became the mecca for boxing as the sport was banned throughout most of America. However, Chelsea had a special ordinance that legalized boxing. It was during this time that Jack Johnson was faced with what he admitted was the toughest fight of his career, when he defended his heavyweight title against Sam Langford on April 6, 1906. Johnson won by a 15-round unanimous decision and refused to fight Langford again.

 

In addition, Fenway Park, famed home of the Boston Red Sox, hosted 29 professional boxing cards between 1919 and 1956. Beyond just hosting big fights, Boston has also produced a slew of Hall of Fame talent who were either born in Massachusetts or called the state home.

 

Noteworthy names include Roxbury heavyweight champions John L. Sullivan, Brockton heavyweight Rocky Marcianoand Brockton resident and middleweight champion Marvelous Marvin Hagler. Boston’s own featherweight championsSandy Saddler and George Dixon plus Boston promoter Rip Valenti have all been enshrined in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

 

“Fighting in Boston was a great experience,” said John Ruiz, a two-time heavyweight world champion from Chelsea. “Like any sport, Boston sports fans are true fans who follow your progress.  I could feel their emotion wherever I fought.  I will never forget them. I fought in Las Vegas a lot and there were always Boston fans there supporting me.  I always appreciated them traveling all over the country to my fights.”

 

A father-son duo from Arlington, Mass. both had an impact on the heavyweight landscape decades after each other. Tom McNeeley fought heavyweight world champion Floyd Patterson in 1961 and dropped the champion before eventually succumbing to a fourth round knockout. Over 30 years later, his son Peter was the first man to fight Mike Tyson after he was released from prison, with the fight ending in McNeeley being disqualified.

 

One of the more unique athletes to come out of Boston, Dr. Wilbert “Skeeter” McClure was an Olympic Gold medalist, a doctor of psychology and a Massachusetts boxing commissioner. While at the 1960 Olympics, McClure served as the co-captain for Team USA and was the roommate of fellow gold medalist Cassius Clay. While he never reached his potential as a professional, he received opportunities against world class opponents Luis Manuel Rodriguez twice andJose Torres, losing all three by decision. He also lost a decision and fought to a draw against  Rubin “Hurricane” Carter. After his professional boxing career, McClure served as a Massachusetts boxing commissioner before eventually retiring in the Boston area where he resides to this day.

 

Another greatly revered fighter to come out of the Boston-area is Lowell’s Micky Ward. Hugely popular for his exciting style, Ward compiled a 38-13 pro record with 27 knockouts. He was most known for the three epic fight of the year award-winning battles with the late Arturo Gatti. Ward’s life and career was portrayed in the award-winning film “The Fighter”, which starred Mark Wahlberg as Ward.

 

“It was great fighting in Boston.  The fans were very supportive and knowledgeable about the game,” said Ward. “It was like I was fighting at home…it was home for me as a fighter.  Fans traveled a lot to my fights, too.  They were a little crazy, drank lot of beer and were more vocal than most places I ever fought. I loved it.”

 

On Saturday, May 23 a new crop of young and hungry fighters will lay it all on the line, hoping to write the next exciting chapter of boxing history in the city of Boston. The action begins at 1:30 p.m. ET inside of Agganis Arena.

 

*           *           *

 

Tickets for the return of big-time boxing to Boston, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Murphys Boxing, are priced at $250, $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. Tickets will be available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, www.AgganisArena.com andwww.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AndreDirrell, @JamesDeGale1, @LouDiBella, @DropkickMurphys, @MurphysBoxing, @NBCSports and @AgganisArena and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment,www.Facebook.com/DropkickMurphys and www.facebook.com/MurphysBoxing. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #PBConNBC