Tag Archives: Radivoje Kalajdzic

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UNBEATEN TREY LIPPE MORRISON STOPS ED LATIMORE IN FIRST; “HOT ROD” KALAJDZIC WINS MAIN EVENT WITH IMPRESSIVE FIFTH-ROUND TKO OVER TRAVIS PETERKIN ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION  FROM BUFFALO RUN CASINO

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Ivan Baranchyk Wins Unanimous Decision over Wang Zhimin

Unbeaten Welterweight Ivan Golub Stops James Stevenson in Third

 

Watch The Replay Monday, Sept. 26, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME®

 

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Photo Credit: Tom Casino/SHOWTIME®

 

MIAMI, Okla. (Sept. 24, 2016) – On a night when undefeated heavyweight Trey Lippe Morrison won his television debut and Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk and Ivan “The Volk” Golub remained unbeaten, light heavyweight Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic regained his winning ways by registering a fifth-round knockout over previously unbeaten Travis Peterkin in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation quadrupleheader live on SHOWTIME Friday from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

 

Making his ShoBox debut and first start since suffering his lone defeat on a disputed decision to Marcus Browne, a motivated Kalajdzic (22-1, 15 KOs) of St. Petersburg, Fla., dropped Peterkin (16-1-1, 7 KOs), of the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, N.Y., two times in the fifth before the fight was stopped at 1:32.

 

Other televised results: Baranchyk (12-0, 10 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., took a 10-round unanimous decision over Wang Zhimin (7-1, 3 KOs, 7-1 WSB), of Nutley, N.J. by way of Ningbo, China, in the ShoBox co-feature; immensely popular local favorite and son of the late former world heavyweight champion, Tommy “The Duke” Morrison, heavyweight Trey Lippe Morrison (12-0, 12 KOs) demolished previously unbeaten Ed Latimore (13-1, 7 KOs), of Pittsburgh, Pa., scoring a 2:19, first-round TKO; and Ukrainian welterweight Golub (13-0, 11 KOs, 5-0 WSB), of Brooklyn, registered a third-round knockout over James Stevenson(23-3, 16 KOs), of Baltimore, Md.

 

Kalajdzic overwhelmed Peterkin with consistent aggression, superior fighting spirit and better power. He landed 45 percent of his power shots, including 60 percent in the final round. Plus, he led 37-7 in body connects.

 

“The one-dimensional nature of Travis Peterkin cost him big time because he had no answer for Hot Rod’s right hand, and when he threw his own power shots they were ineffective,’’ ShoBox expert analyst Steve Farhood said afterward. “He was exposed tonight, and Kalajdzic rejuvenated his career after the loss with Marcus Browne.”

 

A 6-foot-2 native of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kalajdzic dropped Peterkin the first time with a right-left combination and finished him with a right-left-right combination. Peterkin fell heavily in a neutral corner, prompting the referee to stop it.

 

“He was a little bit awkward so it took me a little bit to find my range but once I did and I got into a rhythm, I knew he wasn’t going to last,’’ Kalajdzic said. “We have been working on staying patient and finding that range and it showed tonight.

 

“I wanted to make a statement in this fight and I did. I want the biggest names in the light heavyweight division, but before that I want Marcus Browne again. That is unfinished business for me. If he really thinks he won the fight then let’s do it again. We could fight next week. I’m ready.’’

 

Baranchyk, despite getting cut for the first time in his career (over his left eye in the fifth), won by the scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91. There were no knockdowns.

 

The rounds, particularly in the fight’s second half, were competitive. Both fighters landed a high percentage of power shots, 44 percent for Baranchyk, 41 percent for Zhimin, but the difference was that Baranchyk was busier, crisper and physically stronger.

 

Going more than four rounds for the first time, he answered questions about his late-round stamina and feels he is now ready to step up again.

“The 140-pound division is loaded with talent,’’ Baranchyk said. “There are tons of fighters I would love to fight, but there are two guys in particular I’d like to fight next: Maurice Hooker and Abel Ramos. Hooker is with Roc Nation and is above me in the ratings. He’s undefeated and this would be a great fight to prove I’m one of the best up-and-coming guys in this division. I’d love Ramos to fight Ramos too. We are both promoted by DBE and I have heard he called me out. He’s a come forward guy and those are the type of fights I like and that make for great TV.

“I love the fans here in Miami and I love fighting on ShoBox.  This was my first time going 10 rounds and I feel great. Of course I would have liked to get the knockout because I always want to put on a spectacular show, but this was a great learning experience for me. He was an extremely tough opponent and I was surprised he was able to take so many big shots. We have been working on being patient and boxing and I was able to show that tonight.’’

 

Wang, who gave his best and never allowed Baranchyk to relax, said, “I felt a little tight and I couldn’t get my punches off like I wanted to. He was a little too big for me.’’

 

In a performance that lit up the arena, Lippe Morrison dropped Latimore two times and was on the verge of knocking him down again when the referee stepped in and halted matters at 2:19. Morrison decked Latimore the first time with a right hand midway through the first. Moments later, Latimore went down again from two rights and a left hook. After a series of shots, the referee stopped it.

 

“You know I have to watch the fight, but I think I did alright,’’ said Morrison after what was supposed to be the most dangerous assignment of his career. “I know I have to be patient and work behind my jab and just take the opening that I see – patiently. Being patient is something I’ve really been working on. I really felt my patience this time.

 

“I didn’t expect it to end this quick. I knew it might, but I didn’t plan on it. It felt good to drop a guy with my left hand. I never had the accuracy or quickness with the left that I do know. I now feel that I am equally adept with both hands. My left is like my right.

 

“To win a fight like this is definitely a relief. I was nervous about the fight, but not about fighting on TV.  This was supposed to be my toughest fight on paper and I think I did well.

 

“I feel I may have opened some eyes, but that’s in large part to Freddie Roach. I feel I’m improving thanks to Freddie. I’m throwing quicker, snappier punches and the coordination between my footwork with my hands is way better. All that is because of Freddie.

 

“I wasn’t going for the KO but I’m glad it happened. I could not have done it without Freddie, that’s for sure. I’ll be going back to California in a week and then right to the gym.”

 

The knockout was Lippe Morrison’s ninth in the first round. He also has two second-round knockouts and one fourth-round KO in a career that began in February 2014.

 

“We want to see more of Trey Lippe Morrison,’’ Farhood said. “Let’s let Freddie Roach to do a little bit more of work with him. He had a tremendous pressure on him tonight, but he did fantastically and he responded very well. He made a big step up in class tonight and couldn’t have produced a better result: a first-round knockout.”

 

After a competitive, fast-paced first round, Golub took over as Stevenson appeared to tire. A picturesque right hook to the chin dropped and staggered Stevenson, who still wobbly, got up by the count of five, but Golub continued his two-fisted assault, delivered over 20 unanswered punches and the referee stopped it.

 

“To me the guy that stole the show was Golub,” said Farhood. “We keep thinking of him as a boxer but he showed tremendous power tonight. He knocked out a very sturdy opponent in Stevenson and Baranchyk will benefit tremendously by going 10 rounds. He showed a lot by throwing as many punches as he did late in the fight against an opponent who simply wouldn’t be hurt.’’

 

“I could see from the first round that he was leaving himself wide open when he was coming in,’’ said Golub after his second ShoBox start. “I knew it was only a matter of time until I caught him with something really big and I would get him out of there. I’m happy with the performance but know I still have a lot to improve on. Our game plan was to be patient and box and let him come to us. I’m looking forward to getting back in there soon and continuing to climb the ranks of the welterweight division.’’

Friday’s four-fight telecast that was promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Tony Holden Productions in association with Fight Promotions and Roc Nation Sports will re-air Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND beginning today, Saturday, Sept. 24.

 

Barry Tompkins called the ShoBox action from ringside with Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughanproducing and Rick Phillips directing.

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The New Generation: Lippe-Morrison ready for ShoBox debut

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Miami, OK (September 22, 2016) – As the son of popular former heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison, Trey Lippe-Morrison’s name alone generates attention.

 

A quick glance at the Oklahoman’s record shows that all 11 of his victories came by knockout, 10 inside of two rounds. Those who dug deeper into Lippe-Morrison’s career will see that he’s trained by legendary Freddie Roach at Wildcard Boxing Club in Los Angeles, CA. On the contrary, his critics note that his name alone generated the buzz rather than his knockouts and many second generation boxers didn’t meet expectations.

 

On Friday evening at the Buffalo Run Casino, Lippe-Morrison looks to make his TV debut a successful one when he battles fellow unbeaten Ed “Black Magic” Latimore. The bout opens a quadrupleheader on Shobox: The New Generation and is scheduled for 6 rounds. Latimore, 13-0 (7 KO’s), owns amateur wins over former heavyweight champion Charles Martin and 2012 US Olympian Dominic Breazeale. The Pittsburgh, PA native will be Lippe-Morrison’s toughest test to date and he believes the heavy interest in this fight will only elevate his career when he emerges victorious.

 

“This is a difficult fight for Trey,” said Tony Holden, Lippe-Morrison’s promoter. “Latimore is undefeated and had a good amateur background. He and his team believe this fight will opens doors for him. The interest in this fight is extremely high not just because of whom Trey is but also since there are two unbeaten American heavyweight squaring off early in their careers. The winner is definitely worthy of being considered a top up and coming heavyweight.”

 

Lippe-Morrison is a member of Holden Productions’ “Four State Franchise” and fought 9 of his 11 fights at the Buffalo Run Casino, a venue he’s helped sell out multiple times. With the hometown advantage and flawless start to his pro career, Lippe-Morrison knows there will be pressure on him but believes he’s ready to handle it.

 

“There is a little bit of added pressure,” the 26-year-old said of fighting on TV. “There are of course the people that want to see me on the same level at my father but some of it is brought on by me. My team and I believe I’m ready for this. I’ve been getting a lot better and learning every day under Freddie Roach. Freddie says I’m prepared for the step up and he has full confidence in me. Now I’ve got to go out and perform.”

 

The quadrupleheader airs live on Showtime at 10 PM ET and also features Ivan “The Volk” Golub against James “Keep em’ Sleepin” Stevenson, Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk vs Zhimin Wang and Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic taking on “Notorious” Travis Peterkin.

 

Tickets are sold out and this excellent evening of boxing is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Productions in association with Fight Promotions Inc. and Roc Nation Sports.

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UNBEATEN HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT TREY LIPPE MORRISON READY FOR TELEVISION DEBUT THIS FRIDAY, SEPT. 23, ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATIONQUADRUPLEHEADER

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“Hot Rod” Kalajdzic Faces Undefeated Travis Peterkin in Main Event,
Ivan Baranchyk, Wang Zhimin in Clash of Unbeaten Junior Welterweights, Welterweight Ivan Golub Risks Perfect Record Against James Stevenson

Live on SHOWTIME® at 10 p.m. ET/PT

 

NEW YORK (Sept. 21, 2016) – Trey Lippe Morrison is 11-0 with 11 knockouts. He is the son of the late former world heavyweight championTommy “The Duke” Morrison. A Grove, Okla., native, Trey resides in Hollywood, Calif., and is trained by Freddie Roach at Wild Card Gym.

 

This Friday, Sept. 23, Morrison makes his eagerly awaited television debut when he faces fellow unbeaten and Roc Nation prospect Ed Latimore (13-0, 7 KOs), of Pittsburgh, Pa., in the second bout of a ShoBox: The New Generation quadrupleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

 

Morrison, who turns 27 on Sept. 27, has recorded eight first-round knockouts, two second-round knockouts and one fourth-round KO in a career that began in February 2014. He bears a striking resemblance to his late father facially, physique-wise and with his fighting style, wears red, white and blue trunks with “TOMMY” written across the belt. He has fought all but one of his fights in Oklahoma; this is his 10th start at Buffalo Run.

 

A popular member of Holden’s Four State Franchise stable, the 6-foot-2 Morrison is fighting for the first time since he underwent surgery on his right tendon from an injury suffered in his most recent bout, a fourth-round TKO over Thomas Hawkins last Jan. 23.

 

Below is what Morrison and Roach said about Trey’s fight against LatimoreFriday, his up-and-coming career, life outside the ring, remembrances of his father, working with Freddie and more:

“I’m going to approach this fight against Latimore just the same way I approached my first 11 fights,’’ said Morrison ahead of the scheduled six-round bout. “I’ve gained a lot of confidence and a lot of new skills, and I’m just honored to be able to showcase them. Being on SHOWTIME is just a huge bonus.”

 

Morrison’s thoughts on Ed Latimore … 

 

“I’ve watched a little bit of video. He’s really similar to me. The way he bobs his head all the time and is a real aggressive fighter and always comes forward. It’s almost like I’m fighting a clone of myself. He kind of has that Mike Tyson style, and that’s what I expect to see. If he doesn’t come at me that way, then I’ll have to have a game plan for something else.”

 

Is Latimore your toughest fight to date? …

 

“Oh, yeah. Sure. 100 percent. His record says it all [13-0, 7 KOs]. He’s athletic. From just what I’ve seen of his past fights, he would be the toughest guy I’ve fought so far.”

 

On the injury suffered in his last fight … 

 

“I feel like it is 100 percent healed. It was kind of a freak accident. I threw an uppercut and it hit him in the hard part of his head. Since I’ve been able to put my glove on it, it hasn’t been a problem.”

 

What are the keys to this fight? …

 

“I think you always find the keys within the first couple rounds of the fight. That’s when you figure someone out. I figure I’m just going to be patient, and wait for my shot and when it comes, take it.”

 

Tommy was known as a left-hooker, you’re known for a strong right hand? Did you work more on your left when you were sidelined? …

 

“Oh, yes. Tremendously. I would say me being hurt was a blessing. I think it helped me more than it hurt me. I was really able to develop and sharpen my left hand. So right now I feel like my left hand is just as lethal as my right. I’m confident I can now do everything with my left that I can with my right. I was more of a right-handed fighter before because my left hand wasn’t as developed yet. My timing and my speed wasn’t quite there with my left before, but now I’m good with both.”

 

On working with Freddie Roach…

 

“I’ve been working with Freddie for about a year now. I’m living in West Hollywood; right smack dab in the middle of all the craziness. But I stay away from all of it. I’m more of a hermit. If I’m not training, I’m at home. I really don’t go out much. I really just like being alone at times and being at my place. I don’t have many hobbies. I would say I’m a nerd. I like to play video games with my friends online.”

 

How did you end up with Freddie?

 

“I originally moved out here to train with Jesse Reid. He decided he wanted to make a move to Las Vegas, and that just wasn’t a move my promoter, Tony Holden, and I were going to make. Since I was already here, Tony had a lunch with Freddie who agreed to look at me. So I had a private session with him and after that he said he’d be willing to work with me.”

 

How much have you learned under Freddie’s watchful eye? …

 

“I’ve learned so much — probably everything. And anything I was good at before, he’s sharpened it. I’d probably give him full credit for everything. The guys I’ve sparred with have also taught me a lot. It’s really helped me in every way possible.”

 

Did you play sports in high school? …

 

“I played football, basketball and track. I played tight end and defensive end in football and I ran the hurdles and threw the shot and disc. I played four years of college football at the University of Central Arkansas. I played defensive end there. I had a couple of pro teams looking at me, but I screwed up my senior year and ended getting kicked off the team. I made some bad decisions, just being a dumb college kid, and that led to it. When boxing came up, it was like a second chance for me.

 

“I wasn’t ready for my athletic career to be over. Football ended for me because I made bad decisions. I needed to be told that I wasn’t good enough for me to move on and go out and get a regular job. Around the same time that happened, my dad passed away. My mom told me that Tony Holden had a casino in the next town from where I went to high school. I had never met him before but we went out and had a great time talking about my dad. So I popped the question to him and asked if he’d help me get into boxing. He said absolutely not. I told him I was going to give it a shot because I wasn’t able to give up athletics. He called me back three days later.”

 

Do you feel pressure being the son of Tommy Morrison? …

 

“Yeah. I think there’s a lot of pressure on me to do well, and I think that really weighed on me the first couple of fights. That’s always going to be there. No matter who I fight, or how good I do, they are always going to compare me to my dad. I just have to deal with it.  There definitely is pressure, but I can deal with it better now.

 

“When I first started, people were comparing my first fight ever with how my dad ended his career…to his best fight. So obviously I wasn’t going to match up that way. I knew that I’d get better and that one day I’d get there.”

 

How would you describe your relationship with your father? …

 

“I’d say our relationship was awesome. We were great friends. You know, our time got cut short, and we didn’t get to spend a lot of time together. But the time we did have was amazing. And we really cherished it.”

 

Would you think your dad would be proud of you today, following in his footsteps?

 

“I think he would be proud of me. I wish he was here because the things he would say would help me a lot. I really do think he’d be proud.”

 

How much has your promoter Tony Holden meant to you?

 

“I wouldn’t be where I’m at without him. I can’t even put it into words. Honestly, if I would have started boxing without him, no one would know who I was. Everything I have in boxing, is because of him. I met him in October of 2013, two or three months before I got into boxing.”

 

 

Freddie Roach, a seven-time Boxing Writers Association of America Trainer of the Year and 2012 inductee into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, will be in Morrison’s corner Friday in Miami. He said Trey is dedicated, a joy to work with and has continued to improve. But he remains a work in progress.

 

“Trey’s a very nice person, a simple guy, real polite like most boxers.’’.

 

“He inherited his father’s punch. He’s a big puncher. He’s learned how to box and is getting better every day. He tries hard. I like the way he’s progressing. He holds his own with some of the veteran guys here at the gym and is doing very well.

 

“Once he learns to box a little more, he’s going to make a lot more noise in the division. My thoughts on the heavyweights right now is that it is not all that strong of a division. [Anthony] Joshua may be the best, and there are a couple other big names. But I think the division is mostly wide open for guys who have heart and balls and are ready to take it the distance. Trey’s that kind of kid.’’

 

It was Roach who wanted this fight. “His manager asked me if he was ready and I said he was 100 percent ready. Latimore is his toughest fight, but it’s time to step up.’’

 

 

In Friday’s ShoBox main event, once-beaten Radivoje Kalajdzic (21-1, 14 KOs), of St. Petersburg, Fla. will try and resume his winning ways when he meets undefeated Travis Peterkin (16-0-1, 7 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y. in a 10-round light heavyweight scrap. In the co-feature, super lightweight livewire Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk (11-0, 10 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., takes on Roc Nation’s Wang Zhimin (7-0, 3 KOs, 7-1 WSB), of Nutley, N.J. by way of Ningbo, China, in a 10-rounder. In a scheduled eight-round bout, Ukrainian welterweight Ivan “The Volk” Golub (12-0, 10 KOs, 5-0 WSB), of Brooklyn, N.Y. faces James “Keep’em Sleepin” Stevenson (23-2, 16 KOs), of Baltimore, Md.

The combined record of the eight boxers on the televised card is 114-3-1 with 78 knockouts.

 

Tickets for the event promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Tony Holden Productions in association with Roc Nation Sports are priced at $35, $55 and $75 and are available at buffalorun.com and at stubwire.com.

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhoodand former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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EIGHT FIGHTERS WITH A COMBINED RECORD OF 114-3-1 WILL BE FEATURED FRIDAY, SEPT. 23, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION QUADRUPLEHEADER
FROM BUFFALO RUN CASINO IN MIAMI, OKLA.

 

Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic Faces Undefeated Travis Peterkin in Main Event,
Unbeatens Ivan Baranchyk, Wang Zhimin Clash for USBA Junior Welter Title,
Welterweight Ivan Golub Risks Perfect Record Against James Stevenson,

Trey Lippe Morrison Meets Ed Latimore in Collision of Unbeaten Heavyweights

Tickets on Sale Now

 

NEW YORK (Sept. 6, 2016) – Light heavyweight Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic will face unbeaten southpaw Travis “The Notorious” Peterkin in the 10-round main event of a stacked ShoBox: The New Generation quadrupleheader on Friday, Sept. 23, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Buffalo Run Casino in Miami, Okla.

 

The combined record of the eight boxers on the televised card is 114-3-1 with 78 knockouts.

 

Kalajdzic, 25, of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Peterkin, 26, of the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, N.Y., will be making their ShoBox debuts and initial 10-round starts.

 

This is Kalajdzic’s first fight since losing a highly controversial and questionable eight-round split decision to unbeaten 2012 Olympian Marcus Browne last April 16 in Brooklyn.  Kalajdzic is clamoring for a rematch with the world-ranked Browne, but he can’t overlook the strong, athletic Peterkin, who is coming off a shutout decision over Larry Pryor last March 30 and is looking for a breakout performance.

 

In the ShoBox co-feature, super lightweight powerhouse Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk (11-0, 10 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., faces Roc Nation prospect’s Wang Zhimin (7-0, 3 KOs, 7-1 WSB), of Nutley, N.J. by way of Ningbo, China, in a 10-rounder for the vacant USBA 140-pound title. In a scheduled eight-round bout, Ukrainian welterweight Ivan “The Volk” Golub (12-0, 10 KOs, 5-0 WSB), of Brooklyn, takes on James “Keep’em Sleepin” Stevenson (23-2, 16 KOs), of Baltimore, Md.

 

Local favorite and son of the late former world heavyweight champion, Tommy “The Duke” Morrison, heavyweight Trey Lippe Morrison (11-0, 11 KOs) makes his highly anticipated television debut against fellow unbeaten and Roc Nation prospect Ed Latimore (13-0, 7 KOs), of Pittsburgh, Pa., in the six-round telecast opener.

 

Tickets for the event promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Tony Holden Productions in association with Roc Nation Sports are priced at $35, $55 and $75 and are available atbuffalorun.com and at stubwire.com. (The $35 tickets are sold out).

 

Kalajdzic (21-1, 14 KOs), a 6-foot-2 native of Bosnia and Herzegovina, turned pro in June 2011. He won his first 21 fights before losing to Browne in a bout in which many felt he won easily. Browne (18-0) landed an occasional hard shot, but Kalajdzic seemed to control the fight with his power and awkward style.  Both boxers hit the deck, Kalajdzic (from what appeared to be a slip) in the first, Browne (clearly) in the sixth from a right hand to the head.  Receiving credit for a knockdown in which no punch appeared to connect was the difference, and the fans booed when the scores of 76-75, 76-74 and 74-76 were announced. 

 

“I am really excited about this fight and that I am on television again fighting another undefeated southpaw,” said Kalajdzic. “I am continuing where I left off with training camp from my previous fight since it’s another southpaw, so I will be more than prepared. Hopefully, Peterkin comes to fight and not hug like my last opponent did so we can give the fans a good fight.”

 

Peterkin (16-0-1, 7 KOs) would still have an unblemished record if not for losing two points in an eight-round majority draw with 2008 Dominican Olympian Lenin Castillo (12-0) on Aug. 1, 2015 at Barclays Center. Peterkin had a point deducted in the fourth for hitting after the break and in the fifth for a low blow. The scores were 76-74 and 75-75 twice.

 

Despite the draw in his outing before last, Peterkin considered this the most gratifying moment of his life. From 2012-14, he stocked and served food in the suites at Barclays. In his most recent effort, Peterkin easily outpointed Pryor by the scores of 80-72 three times in New York. This will be Peterkin’s first fight outside of his home state.

 

A good boxer with excellent technique, Peterkin was introduced to boxing by his father, Bernard, a 1987 heavyweight Golden Gloves semifinalist, in 2001. He went 95-7 in the amateurs; after winning the 2010 New York Golden Gloves, he went pro in January 2011.

 

“I was ringside at Hot Rod’s last fight. I respect him, but I saw what his flaws are and will exploit them,” said Peterkin. “I am anticipating a war. Brooklyn is coming to Oklahoma and I will not disappoint. On Sept. 23, greatness beckons.”

 

Baranchyk, an offensive-minded fighting machine, packs outstanding power in both hands. He’s making his third appearance on ShoBox and third in a row at Buffalo Run. His otherShoBox starts, both first-round knockouts versus undefeated opponents, totaled a combined2:49.

 

The highly regarded, all-action Baranchyk registered a brutal, two-punch, 21-second stoppage over Nicholas Givhan (16-0-1) last March 25 on ShoBox at Buffalo Run. He scored a 2:28, first-round knockout over Shadi Shawareb (9-0-2) in his ShoBox debut last Dec. 11 in Houston, Texas.

 

Baranchyk was born in Minsk, Byelorussia and lives in Brooklyn. He’s won eight straight by knockout, including a third-round TKO over previously undefeated Joaquim “Eliseo” Cruz (9-0-1) last June 25 at Buffalo Run. Dominant with his speed and power from the outset, Baranchyk dropped Cruz in the second. Cruz’s corner threw in the towel at 1:07 of the third.

 

All 10 of the 5-foot-7, 23-year-old Baranchyk’s knockouts have come inside three full rounds, including six in the first. He’s fought 22 rounds in an 11-fight career. The only time he went the distance was in his third fight, a four-rounder in December 2014. Baranchyk, a former European amateur standout, turned pro in June ‘14 and relocated to the United States a few months later.

 

“I couldn’t be more excited about returning to ShoBox,” said Baranchyk. “Zhimin is a very skilled fighter and he will be my toughest opponent yet. However, I intend on ending this bout in devastating fashion. I guarantee you will see Zhimin on his back when the fight is over. I am looking to send a message to the rest of the junior welterweight division that I am someone to be feared.”

 

Zhimin, 30, turned pro in November 2010 and fought eight times in the WSB through 2011. After a three-year layoff, he relocated to the U.S. and has gone 7-0. He’s coming off an eight-round decision over Matthew Doherty last June 11. Zhimin had great success in the WSB, winning the gold in 2011 in his native China, defeating Yerzhan Mussafirov of Kazakhstan in the tightly contested lightweight final. Before that, he reached the final in the Chinese National Boxing Championship in 2010, where he received a silver medal. In 2012, he won another silver medal, this time at the Erdos International Boxing Competition.

 

“It’s an honor for me to be a part of this great event,” said Zhimin. “I want to thank the promoters, my team and everyone who gave me this opportunity. My goal is to get that belt. I know it’s a process full of challenges, but I am not afraid of what lies ahead. I know that I will make it. I have faith in myself. I will do whatever I can to prepare myself for this title showdown and give the fans my best performance and bring home the belt.”

 

Golub, a 27-year-old who, at 6-feet, is tall for a welterweight, turned pro as a middleweight in November 2012. At the outset of his career, he went 5-0 in the WSB. He’s gone 12-0 since, winning 10 by knockout, including his last six in a row, the last three as a welterweight.

 

In his ShoBox debut, he touched the canvas for the first time in his career, but bounced back to blast out Marlon Aguas with a series of combinations in the closing seconds of the sixth.  He won by TKO.

 

Golub, a southpaw who’s coming off a second-round TKO over Ernesto Ortiz last July 21, was an outstanding amateur. He went 270-32 as an amateur, was a five-time national champion in Ukraine and won bronze at the 2009 World Amateur Championships.

 

“Stevenson has a lot of experience and I am preparing for a very tough fight,” said Golub. “He is a guy that likes to sit on his punches and trade, which is exactly what I want. Once he feels my power, he is going to be in trouble. This will be an exciting fight for as long as it lasts.”

 

Stevenson is making his ShoBox debut. A pro since 2008, he won his first 21 scraps until losing by ninth-round TKO to then-undefeated Sammy Vasquez on Aug. 8, 2014. The fight was competitive for five rounds before Vasquez took over. Stevenson went down in the ninth.

 

The 5-foot-11, 33-year-old Stevenson has won two-of-three since, including a fifth-round TKO over Kevin Womack last May 14 in his first fight in 13 months. A hard-hitting boxer-puncher, Stevenson has feasted on modest opposition and is still seeking a signature victory.

 

Stevenson has produced a respectable record in spite of his career getting sidetracked by a series of setbacks and tragedies. In 2011, during a routine jog, a dog viciously attacked him, requiring Stevenson to get more than 20 stitches. Shortly thereafter, his father James Stevenson Sr. passed away, as did his mother-in-law.

 

“I appreciate the opportunity,” said Stevenson. “But they made a big mistake giving me the time to get ready for this fight. I’m training real hard and I’m coming to make a statement. I’m not scared of Golub and I promise it won’t go the distance. I’m putting him to sleep.”

 

Morrison has registered eight first-round knockouts, two second-round knockouts and one fourth-round KO in a career that began in February 2014. Morrison, who bears a striking resemblance to his late father facially, physique-wise and with his fighting style, turns 27 onSept. 27. He’s fought all but one of his fights in Oklahoma; this is his 10th start at Buffalo Run.

 

A popular member of Holden’s Four State Franchise stable, the 6-foot-2 Morrison is fighting for the first time since he underwent surgery on his right tendon from an injury suffered in his most recent bout, a fourth-round TKO over Thomas Hawkins last Jan. 23.

 

“I have worked so hard to get to this point and now this is my chance to show the world who I am. I want to thank SHOWTIME for the opportunity,” said Morrison. “Latimore is a huge step up in class for me, but I am ready for it. Once I hear those Oklahoma fans and feel the energy inside the arena, I flip a switch and it’s go-time. This is going to be my coming-out party.”

 

Latimore, who majored in physics in college, is a boxer-puncher expected to give Morrison his toughest test. Latimore is making his ShoBox debut and fourth start this year. He’s coming off an eight-round split decision over Juan Goode last July 15.

 

The 6-foot-1, 31-year-old Latimore turned pro in January 2013. As an amateur, he won the Pennsylvania Golden Gloves, National PAL and Ringside Championships, and was victorious over 2012 Olympian Dominic Breazeale and former IBF Heavyweight Champion Charles Martin.

 

“Morrison will be a real test for me,” said Latimore. “It’s never easy to fight someone in their backyard. I just fought in my hometown of Pittsburgh so I know the feeling coming into it and the momentum on fight night. I am looking forward to putting on a good show for all the fans in Oklahoma and those watching on ShoBox.”

 

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

 

boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Undefeated Rising Star Errol Spence Jr. Makes A Statement In The Welterweight Division With Dominating Fifth-Round Stoppage Of Former World Champion Chris Algieri In Primetime On Premier Boxing Champions On NBC Live From Barclays Center In Brooklyn

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Krzysztof Glowacki Drops Steve Cunningham Four Times On His Way To Retaining Cruiserweight World Title
&
2012 U.S. Olympian Marcus Browne Remains Undefeated With Split-Decision Over Previously Unbeaten Radivoje Kalajdzic
Click HERE For Photos From Leo Wilson/Ryan Greene
Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment
 
Click HERE For Fight Highlights from Premier Boxing Champions
 
BROOKLYN (April 17, 2016) – Undefeated rising welterweight star Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. (20-0, 17 KOs) went emphatically from prospect to contender with a fifth-round stoppage of former world champion Chris Algieri (21-3, 8 KOs) on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC Saturday night from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
“It meant a lot to get the stoppage,” said Spence Jr. “I did something Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan couldn’t do. That shows where I’m at in the welterweight division.”
Spence Jr. was superior in every regard as he took control of the fight from the beginning with world-class bodywork and blazing speed. Algieri was expected to be a major step-up for the 2012 U.S. Olympian, but was unable to bother his opponent despite landing 31 percent of his punches to Spence Jr.’s 30 percent per CompuBox stats.
“I can’t take anything away from this young hungry lion,” said Algieri. “He did a great job. I trained really hard for this fight. I hope that people appreciate me and how hard I worked and what I brought to the fight.”
“The Truth” dominated by landing 41 percent of his power punches over the five rounds and only lost one round on the three judges’ scorecards. Spence Jr. sent Algieri down for the first time in the fourth round with a combination finished off by a straight left hand.
Algieri survived the round, but Spence Jr. was determined to get a stoppage and he connected with another straight left that put Algieri on the canvas early in round five.
“It was pretty one-sided, I felt,” said Spence Jr. “I started slowly. He said he was going to take me to deep waters so I wanted to pace myself.”
“I just wasn’t sticking to the style and the strategy like I should have,” said Algieri. “We had a couple of different styles that we were going to show him and I never stayed in one style long enough to be effective.”
Spence Jr. saw his opportunity and launched a vicious attack in an attempt to end the fight. A massive left hook connected clean with Algieri’s jaw and put him on the canvas for the third and final time, as referee Benjy Esteves waved off the bout at :48 seconds into the fifth round.
“Everyone wanted to see what I could do against a proven fighter and I blew him out of the water,” added Spence Jr.
In the opening bout of the telecast, Polish star Krzysztof Glowacki (26-0, 16 KOs) sent former world champion Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham (28-8-1, 13 KOs) to the canvas four times on his way to a unanimous decision to retain his cruiserweight world title in front of a raucous Polish-heavy crowd.
“Power and precision is my trademark,” said Glowacki. “That’s always been my game. I was a little bit reluctant because of the surgery, but I got more comfortable as the fight went on.”
Glowacki got the action going early as he scored his first knockdown with a left hand that he would use to control the fight and knocked down Cunningham a second time shortly after the former champion rose to his feet.
“I’m just disappointed,” said Cunningham. “I knew I just had to work. The corner kept telling me to go to the body more in the later rounds. I’ve been down before. I knew I had to go at this guy.”
The southpaw from Walcz, Poland and the orthodox veteran from Philadelphia combined for several exciting exchanges as Cunningham was able to land his share of power right hands but was more often than not met with Glowacki’s thudding left.
“The plan from the beginning was to hit him with the left hand and you could tell I was hitting with full power,” said Glowacki. “I couldn’t hit that hard against Marco Huck because of my injury and now I’m hoping to keep that power up in my next fight.”
Cunningham went down again in the 10th round from a short right hand but was able to rally and stun Glowacki with a big right hand. The champion recovered quickly, but Cunningham did arguably his best work of the fight in the 11th round as he aggressively attacked Glowacki with combinations to the head and body.
The fireworks continued in the final round as a strong combination put Cunningham down for the fourth time in the fight. The challenger rose to his feet and attacked effectively at times, but the left hand proved to be too much.
“He punched with me and caught me coming in,” said Cunningham. “I knew after the second round knockdowns that I had to get rounds back and go get him. He’s a smart fighter.”
Cunningham was actually able to land a higher percentage of punches than Glowacki as he connected on 34 percent versus just 25 percent from Glowacki. However the knockdowns and Glowacki’s output advantage of 462 to 366 was enough for him to retain his title by scores of 116-108 and 115-109 twice.
“The fans were my motivation throughout the fight,” said Glowacki. “I just wanted to give them more and more. I want to thank everyone who came and watched me.”
The televised swing bout saw 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (18-0, 13 KOs) remained undefeated with a narrow split-decision victory over previously unbeaten Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic (21-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round light heavyweight contest.
“Establishing my jab was the key,” said Browne. “Once I did that, he couldn’t get past it. He got me with a couple of good shots.”
Kalajdzic was emphatic that the judges were wrong in their decision.
“I don’t see how I lost,” said Kalajdzic. “I was the aggressor. I showed my heart. If he feels like he beat me, give me the rematch.”
The southpaw Browne was able to jab his way into control of the fight by landing 52 jabs to the 54 thrown by Kalajdzic the whole fight. Browne was able to bruise and eventually open up a cut over Kalajdzic’s left eye late in the fight.
In the first round, Browne was credited with a controversial knockdown as it appeared via replay that a slip had occurred and Browne had hit Kaladjzic after he was down.
Kalajdzic was effective with his power punches throughout the fight as he landed 36 percent of his power punches to 29 percent from Browne. His most effective moment came in round six when he sent Browne to the mat with a right hand.
“He caught me with something that grazed me,” said Browne. “I didn’t even know what it was. I walked into the punch but I was able to get up from it and get back in rhythm.”
“He didn’t do anything that bothered me,” said Kalajdzic. “I was doing my thing. I should have listened to my coaches more and I would have stopped him.”
Browne was able to recover for the final two rounds and earn the split-decision by scores of 76-74 for Kalajdzic, 76-74 for Browne and 76-75 again for the still unbeaten Staten Island-native.
“I love fighting in front of my fans and family. We gutted this one out and it’s on to the next one,” added Browne.
PBC on NBC was promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform was presented by AARP. PBC on NBC was sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
 For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,@ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing,@NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
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Errol Spence Jr., Chris Algieri, Krzysztof Glowacki, Steve Cunningham, Marcus Browne & Radivoje Kalajdzic Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

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PBC on NBC Live From Barclays Center On Saturday, April 16
(8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT)
 
 
Click HERE For Photos From Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment/Premier Boxing Champions
 
BROOKYLN (April 13, 2016) – Undefeated rising welterweight star Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and former world champion Chris Algieri went face-to-face Wednesday to kick-off fight week activities with the final press conference before they meet in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC this Saturday, April 16 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Also in attendance at the Highline Ballroom in Manhattan were cruiserweight championKrzysztof Glowacki and former champion Steven “U.S.S” Cunningham plus undefeated 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne and unbeaten light heavyweight Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic who round out a stacked tripleheader on Saturday night.  In addition, popular Brooklyn undefeated fighter Heather “The Heat” Hardy was in attendance as she nears her undercard bout against Sweden’s Anna Hultin.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday:
ERROL SPENCE JR.
“This is a great card with great fighters and its a fantastic opportunity. A lot of people think I’m a prospect on the verge of being a contender. Saturday night is going to be a great performance.
“I never thought fight week would come. I’m just so excited to put on a show. It’s going to be the best Errol Spence you’ve ever seen.
“I just need to stick with my game plan. The game plan that my coach laid out for me and do what I do and get the win.
“Whatever happens, happens. I’m going to have to feel it out in the first round.  I just need to fight smart.
“I’ve always felt like I was ready for this level. Saturday night, I’m looking for a coming out party. My focus is 100 percent on this fight.
“I was ready two fights ago to fight for a title. After this fight we can talk about what’s next, but right now, Chris Algieri is in front of me.
“Chris has been in a lot of hard fights. At the end of the day he’s a boxer and so am I. It’s going to be a war.”
CHRIS ALGIERI
“Brooklyn has treated me very well. I’ve had some of my best performances here at Barclays Center and I look forward to another.
“It’s always an honor to share the stage with such illustrious guys in our sport. A lot of these guys really bring honor and respect to the business that we do.
“I don’t think I’ve gotten as much respect as I deserve throughout my career. I don’t know why, but it doesn’t really matter. At the end of the day I go out there and perform. More often then not I’m victorious.
“I think everyone knows that I’ll fight anybody. Spence is a guy people don’t want to fight, so they brought him to me.
“The best thing about working with John David Jackson is the confidence he gives me. He let’s me be who I am. He gives me the faith to trust in my abilities. I’m looking forward to putting on another great display with him in my corner.
“The hard work is done. Training camp was long, hard and grueling. Not much more to be said. It’s time to fight. It’s going to be a great night of fights. “
KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI
“I’m so happy to be back in the United States and I’d like to thank my team for preparing me so well.

“I’m very happy to be healthy. Training camp went the way I wanted to and I feel 100 percent ready to get in the ring
“I have to win. That’s the most important thing. It’s nice to be fighting on such a great card, but all that matters is keeping my belt.
“Fans can expect to see beautiful boxing. It will be a war inside of the ring. Most importantly, I will win.
“A lot of things have changed since I won my world title. Nobody used to know me and now everyone knows me. I’m happy with my career so far. I don’t like to talk about the future of my career until after the fight.
“Steve Cunningham is not only a great fighter but a great human being, so I expect a tough fight. He wants to take the belt from me but it’s not going to be easy. I want everyone to come out for a great show on Saturday.”
STEVE CUNNINGHAM
“This is my first time fighting at Barclays Center and I’m very excited about that. I’m ready to fight. Training camp is over. You know it’s grueling and hard work.
“I know I have a great opponent. He took the belt from the champion. He got up off the canvas so I can’t look at him lightly at all. But I’m here to do a job.
“I’m was sick of getting cheated and robbed of opportunities at the heavyweight division. I decided to come back down. It’s no problem. Three pounds or four pounds, no big deal. Here we are.
“We are coming to steal the show. I’d like to steal the show without me getting hit too much. A fight is a fight. You know I come to win, so we’re going to have some fun.
“There are some adjustments you have to make when you fight a southpaw. A guy throwing two gloves at you and you have to throw gloves back at him. Doesn’t matter if he fights me upside down, I have to fight smart and beat him regardless.
“There’s always something special with Naazim Richardson. He’s a great mind. One of the great trainers out there. We’ve always got something special prepared. We have to do what we have to do and that’s win.
“When you beat a guy like Marco Huck who was about to make history and you beat him like Glowacki beat him, you have to think he’s good and realize you can’t take Glowacki lightly. He’s a warrior. He’s a problem, something I’m going to have to deal with.
“I’m not 40-years-old yet. Give me a few more months! I don’t feel 39 or 40. I feel great. I just want to go in there and perform and do what I do.
“I’m not one of those predicting guys. I know things happen in the ring. But come Saturday night, I want things to go my way. If not, we’re able to evolve. Let’s go, it’s work time.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“We’ve done a lot of talking leading up into this fight. I want to talk with my hands. He said he’s ready to fight. We’ll see on Saturday night.
“I feel great. Training camp has gone great. Right now the focus is to win and look good. Whatever happens after that is going to happen.
“I’m going to do what I do best and that’s take care of business no matter what.
“I’m ready for whatever he brings to the table. We will know that after the first minute of the first round.
“It’s an incredible honor to be representing my hometown. Fighting in front my home fans is always very motivating and I can’t wait to put on another show for them.
“People have said a lot about how this will be my toughest fight. I can’t listen to anything on the outside. I’m prepared to my fullest and we’ll see what he has on Saturday night.”
 
RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC
“I’m ready. I don’t have too much to say. I’m just ready to fight.
“Training camp went great. We got a full eight weeks in. Roadwork, conditioning, everything. I’m just ready to fight.
“I want to introduce myself to the fans by knocking out Marcus Browne. If that doesn’t come, I want to put on a great performance. Being on the big stage doesn’t bother me, once the bell rings its just another day.
“I know Marcus is fast and has pop to him. I don’t want to give too much away.
“I’m a boxer puncher. I’ve got the power to knock a fighter out. Most of my knockouts have come in the first round.
“I feel like I came up the right way. I didn’t have that much amateur experience, but I stepped up to this big opportunity at the right time.”
HEATHER HARDY
“I’m expecting to face a good strong boxer on Saturday night. She’s coming down in weight to fight me, so don’t miss it.
“We changed a little bit during this training camp. I added another conditioning coach. A guy that has been putting me through torture three times a week.
“My opponent is strong, she has a good record, she’s from overseas. I know I have my hands full.
“It’s a real honor to fight at Barclays Center. I couldn’t ask for a better place. There’s nowhere in the world I’d rather fight than right here at home. As far as my career progressing, I’d like to be up there on stage and be on TV.
“I can’t wait to fight (unbeaten contender) Shelly Vincent. I think that will be the big breakthrough fight that let’s me establish who I am in this game and who I am for the bigger competition.  That’s a perfect fight for TV. Fingers crossed.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“This great card features a fighter who is believed to be the top prospect in boxing, in Errol Spence Jr. versus New York’s own, a former world champion in Chris Algieri in what promises to be an exciting primetime main event.
“Marcus Browne has fought more times at Barclays Center than any other professional fighter. He has the chance to make the jump towards a world title by taking out another young undefeated fighter. ‘Hot Rod’ is not planning on letting that happen without serious resistance.
“Glowacki’s fight with Huck was one of the best of last year and he can expect the Polish fans in Brooklyn to be behind him on Saturday night.
“Steve Cunningham is one of the most respected fighters by his peers. Not just for his quality in the ring, but his quality as a family man and as a human being. He knows he’s fighting a great champion and I know he’s got a great game plan.”
JOE DEGUARDIA, President of Star Boxing
“It’s a pleasure to be back in Brooklyn and to have Chris Algieri fighting at Barclays Center again. It’s very rewarding that he will be in the main event on national television on NBC. It’s a real testament to this fight.
“Chris has had some great performances at Barclays Center. He’s going to have another one in front of him on Saturday. Spence Jr. is a challenge that Chris is looking forward to and one he has faced before.
“Everyone wrote him off when he faces Ruslan Provodnikov. We’re looking forward to Chris Algieri pulling off a surprise just like that on Saturday night.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment
“Barclays Center is thrilled to have Chris Algieri back for his fourth fight and we expect a great turnout from the Long Island fans who are looking forward to Saturday as well. We’re also looking forward to a new name to headline Brooklyn and we welcome Errol Spence Jr.
“We welcome Marcus Browne back for your 11th fight and we thank you for calling Barclays Center home. Heather Hardy is also back at Barclays Center for the sixth time and we are thrilled to have all of them fighting in our building.
“It’s fitting that Saturday nights card features Chris Colbert and Earl Newman who got their start at Golden Gloves.
“I think 2016 will be our biggest year yet and we look forward to welcoming everybody back in the coming months.”
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
 For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,@ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing,@NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

2012 U.S. Olympians Errol Spence Jr. & Marcus Browne Reflect On Olympic Experience Heading Into Premier Boxing Champions on NBC Showdowns Taking Place Saturday, April 16 From Barclays Center In Brooklyn

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(Photo Credit: Tom Casino/SHOWTIME)
 
Click HERE For Photos of Spence Jr. & Browne From the Olympics
 
“The Olympic stage prepares you for anything.” – Spence Jr.
 
“We always thought about nights like these where
we’re both center stage.” – Browne
 
BROOKLYN (April 12, 2016) – Undefeated rising stars Errol “The Truth” Spence  Jr. and “Sir” Marcus Brownestarted out as teammates on the 2012 U.S. Olympic team and will face the toughest tests of their careers when they enter the ring in primetime on Premier Boxing Champions on NBC Saturday, April 16 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The rising welterweight Spence Jr. will take on former world champion Chris Algieri in the main event while Browne kicks-off televised coverage at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT when he takes on unbeaten Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
With the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio nearing the opening ceremonies, it is poetic that both Spence Jr. and Browne will have the opportunity to launch themselves into the upper echelon of the sport as a new generation of rising stars get set to test themselves against the best in the world at the Olympics.
Here is what the fighters had to say about their Olympic experiences, fighting on the same card, advice to the 2016 team and more:
On fighting in televised fights on the same card:
 
Errol Spence Jr.: “My pro debut was on the ‘Night of the Olympians’ and it had me, Terrell Gausha, Marcus Browne, and Rau’Shee Warren. These are the kind of nights we envisioned. It’s so great to see my friends and Olympic brothers doing as well as me.
 
Marcus Browne: “We always thought about nights like these where we’re both center stage. This couldn’t have happened if we didn’t keep our records clean and fought hard. To have gotten to this point alongside an Olympic teammate is an amazing thing. I look forward to both of us being propelled to the next level.”
On their favorite Olympic memories:
ES: “My favorite memory is competing and being around all of the great athletes. I got to meet Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Serena Williams and Michael Phelps. All of these athletes that I had seen on TV. Being in that atmosphere helped me realize that I am a great athlete amongst other great athletes.
MB: “It sounds materialistic, but all the free gear we got was amazing. Coming where I come from, I had never been given anything like that before. I was surprised at the adoration I was getting from people. Everyone just wanted to make us feel a part of this unbelievable event.
On how the Olympics prepared them for the pros:
ES: “The Olympic stage prepares you for anything. It’s the biggest tournament in the world. Having media day and talking to all of those outlets and then having to train, it prepares you for the professional ranks. When you get to the top, you’re going to have to do those exact same things.
MB: “Fighting in front of 10,000 people that are cheering against you will prepare you for anything in this sports. A lot of people don’t get that until they’re at the highest level. The atmosphere is just so intense and the Olympic fans are so passionate.
 
On the bond they share with their Olympic teammates:
ES: “All of us on the team have a great bond. Anytime you spend four months in camp with the same group of guys and you’re training and losing weight together, you become very close. It automatically creates a natural bond and connection. They are like brothers to me.
MB: “There is always going to be that bond of brotherhood regardless if you talk everyday or every three years. Spending every waking moment with these guys and singing the ‘Star Spangled Banner’ every morning, we build up a group bond and individual friendships that are so important to us.
On their impressions of the other:
ES: “Marcus was always the loud one in the Olympic training center. Marcus was always encouraging everyone to work hard and train harder. I want to be like Evander Holyfield. He and his Olympic teammates like Pernell Whitaker all held belts at the same time.
MB: “Errol and I are kind of opposites. Errol is more of a quiet and reserved guy. He works hard and runs like a gazelle. He fights hard and at the end of the day he is just a good dude. The plan is for all of us to be world champions and do great things.
On their advice to the 2016 U.S. Olympic team:
ES: “I would tell the 2016 team to just keep doing what they’re doing. Stay focused. Don’t get too big headed. Listen to your coaches and do everything you’ve been doing. The Olympics are right around the corner and we want to see medals in the men’s division this year.”
MB: “I just want to tell the team to make sure you get all the international experience you can get and fight hard for your country.”
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
 For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,@ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing,@NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
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RISING UNDEFEATED PROSPECT MARIO BARRIOS & TOP 140-POUND CONTENDER LUCA GIACON HIGHLIGHT UNDERCARD ACTION ON SATURDAY, APRIL 16 FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

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Stacked Card Features Local Talent Including
Heather Hardy, Chris Colbert & Earl Newman & International Stars Lukasz Maciec & Dardan Zenunaj
 
BROOKLYN (March 29, 2016) – Undefeated prospect Mario Barrios (14-0, 8 KOs) and top super lightweight contenderLuca “Black Mamba” Giacon (27-1, 23 KOs) compete in separate bouts that highlight undercard action on Saturday, April 16 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The April 16 event features a Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC tripleheader headlined by undefeated rising star Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. taking on former world champion Chris Algieri. Televised coverage begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT and will see cruiserweight world champion Krzysztof Glowacki defending his title against former cruiserweight champion Steve “U.S.S. Cunningham and undefeated 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne battling fellow unbeaten Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic.
Barrios makes his east coast debut in an eight-round super featherweight bout while Giacon looks to put the 140-pound division on notice when he competes in an eight-round affair.
A trio of exciting fighters representing Brooklyn will enter the ring as undefeated star Heather “The Heat” Hardy (15-0, 3 KOs) competes in an eight-round junior featherweight bout while Golden Gloves champions Chris Colbert (4-0, 2 KOs) and Earl Newman (8-0, 6 KOs) compete in a four-round featherweight bout and an eight-round cruiserweight bout respectively.
International action will heat up the ring at Barclays Center as 26-year-old Polish contender Lukasz Maciec (22-3-1, 5 KOs) fights in an eight-round super welterweight bout, 28-year-old Belgian Dardan Zenunaj (11-1, 9 KOs) fights in an eight-round junior lightweight affair and 22-year-old Russian Radzhab Butaev (1-0, 1 KO), fighting out of Brooklyn, in a six-round super welterweight fight against South Carolina’s TyKeem Sadler (6-1, 4 KOs)
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
A tall featherweight at more than six feet, the 20-year-old Barrios picked up seven victories in a jam-packed 2015 in which he stopped five opponents inside the distance, including an uppercut left hook combo that ended the night of Manuel Vides in December. The San Antonio-native turned pro in 2013 and is on the fast track towards a world title shot as he makes his 2016 debut.
A winner of six-straight fights, Giacon is coming off of a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Steve Jamoye in October 2015 that put him in the top contender status in the division. The 27-year-old has fought in Spain, Panama and Italy throughout a pro career that dates back to 2007 and will be making his U.S. debut on April 16.
A popular Brooklyn fighter who competed in Barclays Center’s first-ever professional female boxing match, Hardy has become a staple at the arena since. On April 16, she will be making her sixth appearance at Barclays Center. A little over two years after her pro debut, Hardy won an international title belt in the super bantamweight division in October 2014 and followed it up in 2015 with a victory over Renata Domsodi and two over Noemi Bosques.
Fighting out of Lublin, Poland, Maciec will be making his second start in the U.S. and his first in the Polish-heavy borough of Brooklyn. The 26-year-old owns victories over veteran contenders Lanardo Tyner, Laszlo Fazekas and previously unbeaten Sasun Karapetyan.
Originally from Kosovo but fighting out of Belgium, Zenunaj made his U.S. debut in December 2015 and stopped Bryant Cruz in the seventh round to announce his presence stateside. The 28-year-old has won 10 fights in a row including eight in a row by knockout.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
 For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing,@ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing,@NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Errol Spence Jr., Chris Algieri, Krzysztof Glowacki, Steve Cunningham, Marcus Browne & Radivoje Kalajdzic Media Conference Call Highlight Quotes

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(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)
 
“I believe I’m one of the top talents in the sport, but I have to prove myself in this fight.” – Spence Jr.
 
“It’s a very difficult task to go from prospect to contender. I believe that this is a huge leap for Errol.” – Algieri
 
BROOKLYN (March 24, 2016) – Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC fighters held a media conference call today to discuss their Saturday, April 16 matchups at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Undefeated rising star Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr., former world champion Chris Algieri, cruiserweight world champion Krzysztof Glowacki, former cruiserweight champion Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham, unbeaten 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne and undefeated light heavyweight Radivoje Kalajdzic spoke to media in advance of their primetime showdowns on NBC, with televised coverage beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
ERROL SPENCE JR.
“This is a great opportunity for me. It’s another step in my career to get to where I want to be, which is a world title fight.
“Camp is going great. I’m on weight and I’m looking forward to a putting on a great, one-sided performance on April 16.
“I have something to prove. I believe I’m one of the top talents in the sport but I have to prove myself in this fight. There are a lot of questions that need answering. April 16 I have to prove myself and I’m ready for it.
“Going from prospect to contender is a leap, but you have to go through it. There’s a lot expected from me. This is what I have to do to get into that top-five level.
“Chris has a lot of heart. He’s gritty. I know he’s going to come to fight and make it a real entertaining fight.
“I don’t put any pressure on myself. I’m training harder than ever but I’ll come in like it’s any other fight. I’m ready to put on a great show.
“I want to fight at least three times this year. As long as I’m healthy and everything is going well, I want to stay active. I don’t want to wait around for an opponent. I want to get in the ring and stay winning.”
CHRIS ALGIERI
“We’re looking forward to putting on another great performance. I’ve had some of my best performances at Barclays and this is going to be another.
“I’m getting more and more excited as we get to fight night. I’m really looking forward to April 16.
“This kid wouldn’t be here if he wasn’t a good fighter. There’s a lot of pressure on him. It’s a very difficult task to go from prospect to contender. It’s not easy to make that jump. You have to be careful taking big leaps. I believe that this is a huge leap.
“I’ve been in the ring with big guys and hard-hitters. Styles make fights but it’s all about matchups. Boxing is a rhythm sport. You have to be in with a guy and see how the styles mesh.
“I fought at 147 and 154 when I kick-boxed so I’ve been in the ring with those bigger guys. I’ve never had a problem with size.”
KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI
 
“I’m so happy to be able to fight again in the United States and I’m going to deliver another great fight. I hope both the Polish and American fans are going to be there for this explosive fight.
“I’m absolutely ready to come to the United States and defend my title.
“It was very frustrating to have the injuries that I had. I couldn’t do anything. The silver lining is that I’m so unbelievably hungry to return. I’m even hungrier than usual.
“My reception back home after the Huck fight was unbelievable. When I arrived from the airport there were people with flowers and I got a police escort to my hometown. It’s an unbelievable feeling to be a world champion. I want to have this feeling again when I return. I was relatively unknown but now people approach me on the streets and it’s a great feeling to have.”
STEVE CUNNINGHAM
“I’m excited to have another opportunity at a world title in the cruiserweight division. I’m always ready, I’m always prepared and in the gym.
“Glowacki is a formidable foe. He made a big splash in his U.S. debut and people will want to see if he can live up to that. We’re going to get together and make some fireworks.
“This isn’t new territory for me just a new opponent. We don’t look past anybody and we’re ready for this one. It’s war time.
“I know he’s driven, but I’m driven also. I’ve fought all over the world. It’s new fighting close to home, but it’s still going to feel like Poland in Barclays Center. Well I’ve fought in Poland before, so we’re just going to take everything from camp and bring it to the fight.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“This is just another step for me on the road to becoming world champion. Everyone wants to make it seem like he is the best fighter I’ve ever faced. April 16 we will see.
“I see what I see from ‘Hot Rod’. He’s young, he’s undefeated and he doesn’t want to lose his 0. I’m going to take care of it in the ring.
“These kind of fights are essential for both of us and that will cause fireworks. He wasn’t on my radar before but come April 16 we’ll both be on each other’s radar for sure.
“Is he the best opponent I’ve faced in a professional fight? Yes. But this isn’t the best guy I’ve been in the ring with. April 16I’m going to take care of my business in the ring. That’s how we converse in boxing.
“You can’t go in there thinking that what you did in the amateurs makes you a great pro. It’s two totally different games. I’ve been in there with a lot of good guys from a young age.”
RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC
“I’m happy to be fighting at Barclays Center on a great show. I’m just ready to fight and I hope Marcus Browne is too.
“I’ve worked with Keith Thurman before and gotten in the ring with him since we both train down in St. Petersburg, Florida. It’s real good work. He’s a great fighter.
“Marcus obviously has speed and power. I won’t tell you his weaknesses but if you watch on fight night, I’ll show you.
“We’re mostly focused on what I’m going to do. We’re working on our game plan and we’ll get in there and exploit his weaknesses.
“I’m excited to be fighting in Brooklyn. I’ve fought in my hometown and I’m excited to have the crowd against me. It’s only going to be him and me in the ring.”
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Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

Chris Algieri Supporting Alma Mater Stony Brook University Ahead Of First NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Game in School History

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“It’s an inspiration to see their hard work and determination. They can be the latest ‘Cinderella’ 
story to come out of the tournament.” – Algieri
 

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/Star Boxing)
 
Algieri takes on rising star Errol Spence Jr. in primetime as
Premier Boxing Champions on NBC returns to
Barclays Center in Brooklyn
Saturday, April 16 (8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT)
BROOKLYN (March 17, 2016) – Former world champion Chris Algieri is excited to cheer on his alma mater, the Stony Brook University Seawolves, as they hit the court for the first men’s basketball NCAA Tournament game in the school’s history.
“The older I get, the less I believe in luck, but I want to wish good luck to my alma mater, the Stony Brook Seawolves, in the opening game of the NCAA tournament later tonight,” said Algieri.
The Long Island-native graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Health Care Sciences and is currently on the advisory board of the Seawolves United Athletic Department. In 2015, he established the “Chris Algieri Champion Lifestyle Scholarship Fund” in 2015.
“The program has come such a long way over the past few years,” Algieri continued. “It is an inspiration to see what hard work and determination can do. This is their first ever trip to March Madness and I think they can be the latest ‘Cinderella’ story to come out of the tournament.”
The 13th-seeded Seawolves will take on the fourth-seed Kentucky Wildcats in Des Moines, Iowa tonight in the first round of the East Regional, with tip-off scheduled for 9:40 p.m. ET.
“I know what it’s like to be the underdog,” said Algieri. “I’ve been the underdog numerous times in my life and career and it’s all about digging deep and having the heart of a champion. I know those guys on the Stony Brook team have that championship mettle.”
Algieri takes on Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBCtripleheaderon Saturday, April 16 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn with televised coverage beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Star Boxing, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ErrolSpenceJr, @ChrisAlgieri, @USSCunningham, @Marcus_Browne, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @NBCSports, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on NBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.