Tag Archives: Rafael Rivera

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LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. RAFAEL RIVERA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Headlined by Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Taking on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera This Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

LOS ANGELES (February 14, 0219) – There was no love lost on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles as fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes exchanged words and went face-to-face at the final press conference before their respective showdowns this Saturday night at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live.
 
WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz will defend his title against Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event of the show. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature an exciting clash between contenders Omar Figueroa andJohn Molina Jr., plus unbeaten prospects Sebastian Fundora and Donnie Marshall going toe-to-toe.
 
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
The event also featured an appearance by former world champion and Southern California fan-favorite Fernando Vargas. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room:
 
LEO SANTA CRUZ
 
“We were getting ready for Miguel Flores, but in the gym you have to always be ready for any kind of style. We had been already been working with sparring partners who brawl, and that’s what we expect from Rafael Rivera.
 
“I knew immediately that Rivera was a good opponent. He’s young and hungry and that makes him dangerous. He can take punches, so we’re ready for 12 rounds. We’re going to be smart in this fight because we know what Rivera can do.
 
“Seeing my dad going through cancer treatment has been very tough. He motivates me to go to the gym and train hard, because I know if he sees me working hard, it will motivate him as well.
 
“I’m just looking to go out there, give a great fight and help my name continue to grow so that I can fight the best.
 
“I love fighting and training here in Los Angeles. It gives me a chance to be with my family more. When I have them here, it makes me train harder. I do all of this for them and their future.
 
“If I can get this win, we want to unify the belts or make the third fight against Carl Frampton. If not, we will go to 130 pounds and seek a title in a new weight class.”
 
RAFAEL RIVERA
 
“I’ve stepped in late before to a big fight. I’m always ready when it comes. Expect a surprise come Saturday night.
 
“I know that I have everything it takes to bring this title back to Tijuana. We’ve trained hard and had these last four weeks to focus in on breaking Leo down.
 
“I’m prepared for anything Leo brings into the ring. Everyone knows he’s very tough and throws a lot of punches, but I believe I am the faster fighter and I can hurt him with counters.
 
“This is the best opportunity I’ve had, going up against a great champion like Leo. I’m ready for fight and a great show for the fans.”
 
OMAR FIGUEROA
 
“Given our styles, there’s no way this is going to go the distance. I think this is going to be an early night and I’m planning on having my hand raised.
 
“The layoff didn’t affect me against Robert Guerrero, so I don’t see why it will affect me now. That’s why I keep my style consistent. The only difference is the character across from me in the ring. This fight will depend on how John wants it to go, because I’m coming to fight.
 
“I’m just looking to get in the ring and take advantage of this opportunity I’ve been given. I’ve made changes that have made my whole game so much easier. It’s a totally different mentality that I have now.
 
“Training camp went great. I’ve made a lot of changes in my lifestyle and I’m dedicated 100 percent to boxing. Things have never been better.”
 
JOHN MOLINA JR.
 
“It’s time to fight. The hard work is done and the time is now. Talk is cheap. On Saturday night, we’ll get down.
 
“I’ve been down this road before. I was never given lofty expectations. There’s no pressure here. I think Omar’s style will accommodate mine and make it a fun fight for the fans.
 
“Whenever I fight, it’s going to be exciting. You can say the same thing about Omar. I’m prepared for any version of Omar. Just like any other fight. I can’t wait until Saturday night to get in there and do what I do best.
 
“I’ve put everything into this camp, like I’m sure my opponent has. That’s what we owe to the fans and it’s going to come to fruition Saturday night.”
 
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA
 
“I expect a good fight. He’s an undefeated fighter and I hope to give the fans a great show and walk away victorious.
 
“We’re totally focused on this fight. I just train and everything else is out of the way. I trained hard and I’m going to do my thing like always.
 
“I’m still growing as a fighter. We’re getting better with every camp and every fight. It’s good that we keep fighting quality opponents, because it helps accelerate that process.
 
“Hopefully we’re going to display a lot more boxing and technique in this fight. I think Marshall is going to come inside and attack the body. I think if I’m able to stop him, it will be from the boxing skills that I show.”
 
DONNIE MARSHALL
 
“I’m ready to dominate the fight like I always do. That’s the only thing on my mind. I don’t care about his height, record or anything else. I’m coming to dominate.
 
“I’ve never been concerned with the height of Fundora. We sparred with some good strong southpaws in Florida including Yamaguchi Falcao. Then we went to Las Vegas for the second half of training camp and worked with some top prospects. I’m more than prepared for anything.
 
“Every fight is a make or break fight. I’ve trained against top fighters and been all around the country in different gyms. I’ve only been pro two and a half years. I’m a young 30. I’m going to announce myself on Saturday in a big way.”
 
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports
 
“This weekend is another example why Los Angeles is such a great fight town. We’re going to have a fantastic crowd at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live on Saturday night. I think that speaks to the strength of this city as a boxing town, and the strength of this card. This is top to bottom one of the best cards I can remember here in Los Angeles.
 
“The tripleheader on FOX and FOX Deportes has three fights that want to steal the night. We will see which fight and which fighter everyone will be talking about after Saturday. There are definitely some fights on this card that have ‘Fight of the Year’ written all over them.
 
“We are committed to continuing to bring the best and biggest fights to the fans here in Los Angeles, because Los Angeles is the fight capital of the world again.”
 
#         #       #
 
ABOUT SANTA CRUZ VS. RIVERA
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event that will see featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz take on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
 
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa battling hard-hitting John Molina Jr. and a matchup between unbeaten prospects Sebastien Fundora and Donnie Marshall. Rising prospect and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas will compete in a swing bout that will air live if time permits.
 
Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.
 
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, ht
tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @Ringstar and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON FOX & FOX DEPORTES: LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. RAFAEL RIVERA MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Headlined by Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Taking on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera This Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

Click HERE for Photos from Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions

LOS ANGELES (February 13, 2019) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event took part in a media workout Wednesday as they near their respective showdowns this Saturday night at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
 
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
Wednesday’s workout featured Mexican contender Rafael Rivera, who will battle WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz in the main event.
 
Also working out Wednesday at City of Angels Boxing Club were unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa and hard-hitting John Molina Jr., who battle in super lightweight action, and unbeaten prospect Donnie Marshall, who faces fellow-unbeatenSebastian Fundora in a super welterweight bout that kicks off televised coverage at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas was also in attendance, as he competes in a TV swing bout.
 
The fighters will go face-to-face at a press conference on Thursday that will feature former two-time world champion and Southern California favorite Fernando Vargas. Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
 
RAFAEL RIVERA
 
“When I got this opportunity, I didn’t think twice. I was training and ready and I wanted this challenge. I’m here to make the most of it.
 
“Like I always say to my fans, be ready for a great fight. I’m looking to make this very exciting and interesting. The belt is coming back with me to Tijuana.
 
“I never look for the knockout, but I’ve still been able to get them. I’m ready, so I hope he’s also ready to give the fans a great fight.
 
“This is a big challenge for me. I’m coming for that world title. I want to prove how good I am and become a world champion for my fans in Tijuana.
 
“I love to face the best fighters out there. Leo is a fighter who throws a lot of punches. We’ve seen it and we’ve studied it. But I don’t think he’s very fast. I’m faster than he is and I have to take advantage of that. I have to counter him when he comes in and do my job.”
 
OMAR FIGUEROA
 
“I’m looking to come back strong against Molina. My style is always to go in there for the knockout and give the fans a great show. The sooner we get him out of there, the better.
 
“We know that John Molina is a tough fighter. He’s been in there with some of the best in the world and he’s given them problems. We expect him to bring a great fight.
 
“We’ve seen Molina box before and make things difficult for certain fighters. I’m going to try to make the fight my style of fight and we’ll see if he obliges. Once he feels the power, he might choose to box.
 
“I don’t think this goes past six rounds. I’m confident about that. We’re going to be ready for anything Molina brings.
 
“I’ve been doing a lot of healing physically, mentally and spiritually. I’m looking to show on Saturday that I’ve got everything together.”
 
JOHN MOLINA JR.
 
“I feel excited and confident. Maybe overconfident, but I am ready. We did our job in the gym and now we are ready for the fight.
 
“I have to expect the best version of Omar Figueroa. He is a smart kid. I don’t know if he is trying to entice me into a war right away. I don’t know what his game plan is, but we will find out on Saturday.
 
“Fans need to tune in on FOX and FOX Deportes February 16. This is going to be a war and I believe we’re going to steal the show.
 
“This isn’t my first go around against a Joel Diaz-trained fighter. I did it before with Ruslan Provodnikov and now it is my job to beat Figueroa. 
 
“I am not affected by being considered the underdog. Every one of my fights, fans make money. I think Provodnikov I was 11-1. When you become a veteran in the sport, you stop worrying about stuff like that. Talk is cheap. 
 
“There is a lot at stake for me. I don’t feel pressure, but there is a lot at stake. Every fight of my career I have something to prove and Saturday is no different.”
 
DONNIE MARSHALL
 
“This is my first big opportunity and I’m ready to take full advantage. I’m going to show everybody where I’m at.
 
“I’m going to take it as it comes in the ring. We have a game plan, but I’m a creator in the ring. I create on the go. I’ll fit in where I can and go with the flow of the fight.
 
“The only challenge I see is his height. He’s obviously very tall at six-foot seven-inches. We know what we have to do to break him down. I don’t even really see the height as a challenge, because I spar with heavyweights all the time.
 
“I’m 10-0, but I only started boxing when I was 20, about 10 years ago. I don’t have the time like young prospects who want to play around, I want to fight any and everybody I can right now.”
 
KARLOS BALDERAS
 
“I feel excited and anxious to get back in the ring. I’m ready physically and mentally. I know that my opponent won’t be ready for the heat I’m going to throw at him.
 
“This year I’m looking to be busy. I want to be back in the ring in April if everything goes well on Saturday. After this fight I’m going to move to Los Angeles and add trainer Roberto Alcazar to my team. He’s had a lot of experience in big fights and I think he’s going to be a great help. I can really understand clearly what he’s trying to teach me.
 
“I’m going to show everyone that I’m the real deal once again. I’m going to prove why these fighters can’t make it through a fight with me. This year is all business for me.”
 
#         #       #
 
ABOUT SANTA CRUZ VS. RIVERA
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event that will see featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz take on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
 
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa battling hard-hitting John Molina Jr. and a matchup between unbeaten prospects Sebastien Fundora and Donnie Marshall. Rising prospect and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas will compete in a swing bout that will air live if time permits.
 
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, ht
tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @Ringstar and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

Welterweight Champion Errol Spence Jr. & Four-Division Champion Mikey Garcia to Square Off at Unprecedented Live Press Conference on FOX & FOX Deportes This Saturday, February 16 at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live

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Fighters to Preview Blockbuster Showdown During Nationally Televised Press Conference Leading up to Saturday, March 16 FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas

LOS ANGELES (February 11, 2019) – Unbeaten welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. and undefeated four-division champion Mikey Garcia will go face-to-face at a special FOX PBC PRESS CONFERENCE that will air live on FOX and FOX Deportes this Saturday, February 16 at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

“Errol Spence Jr. versus Mikey Garcia is one of the most intriguing fights of the year and having them face off before a live audience on network television is an unprecedented and unique way to build interest for this fight,” said Bill Wanger, EVP of Programming, Live Operations and Research, FOX Sports. “We’re excited to highlight these two undefeated fighters before they go toe-to-toe in the ring.”

“This is a historic occasion. I can’t recall the last time, if ever, in my 30 years in the sport when there has been a press conference live on broadcast television,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “It’s just further proof of the commitment that FOX has to the sport and the PBC boxers. It’s also a win for the fans who tune-in because they will get a sneak peek at what awaits when these two champions step into the ring at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on March 16.”

“Spence vs. Garcia is a more than a fight. It is an event that will determine who is pound-for-pound the best fighter in the world,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “It is an event that transcends boxing. The legendary AT&T Stadium is the perfect host for this event, where two champions in the prime of their careers will put their records and their legacies on the line. On March 16, the world will be watching and witness one of the biggest events of our generation.”

The hour-long show on FOX will be hosted by Kate Abdo along with analysts Ray Mancini and newly crowned IBF World Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant. Kenny Albert hosts the press conference with fighters in the ring, while Jimmy Lennon Jr. introduces fighters. Heidi Androl serves as the reporter, adding interviews during the show. Spence and Garcia will preview their upcoming FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdown taking place Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Boxing fans can tune-in at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT for more PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes coverage as a three-fight broadcast kicks off from Microsoft Theater with WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz defending his title against Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event.

boxing, Fox, Premier Boxing Champions

LEO SANTA CRUZ LOS ANGELES MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS – WBA Featherweight Champion Santa Cruz Takes on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

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WBA Featherweight Champion Santa Cruz Takes on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

Click HERE for Photos from Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions

LOS ANGELES (February 5, 2019) – WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz, one of Los Angeles’ most popular boxing stars, hosted a media workout at Fortune Gym in Hollywood Tuesday as he nears his primetime showdown againstRafael Rivera that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
 
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
Santa Cruz, who was joined by his father and trainer Jose Santa Cruz, showed off the skills that have made him a can’t-miss attraction. Santa Cruz was originally scheduled to face Miguel Flores, but he was replaced by Rivera after Flores suffered an injury in training.
 
Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday in Hollywood:
 
LEO SANTA CRUZ
 
“We kept our training camp going despite the change of opponent. We always train the same no matter who the opponent is.
 
“We spar against fighters who have every different kind of style, because the opponent could always bring something new to the ring. My dad tells me to always be prepared for any kind of style. We are ready for whatever the opponent brings into the ring.
 
“I’m always staying in shape whether I’m in the gym training for a fight or not. When they call us and tell us what the fight is, we’re always ready.
 
“I know that Rivera has fought some good opponents like Joseph Diaz and Joet Gonzalez, and he’s gone the distance with them. He’s given them tough battles. He’s shown that he’s a tough fighter who will leave everything in the ring.
 
“This isn’t going to be an easy fight. Rivera is tougher than people have given him credit for in the past. It motivates me to try to be the first to knock him out. If I have the opportunity for it, I’m going for it. Most important though, is to come out of there with the victory.
 
“Sometimes when my dad is having tough days dealing with the cancer, I want to stay at home with him, but he tells me to go to the gym and train hard. So I tell him that we’re going to work hard for him. We both motivate each other.
 
“(WBC Featherweight Champion) Gary Russell Jr. is the fight that I want. He beat me in the amateurs, but in the pros I get 12 rounds. I think that I can beat him.”
 
JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Leo’s Father & Trainer
 
“We didn’t worry too much about the opponent change. I don’t think it makes too much of a difference. Leo is going to be at his best and ready for whoever steps into that ring.
 
“We didn’t let the change effect our routine. We continued the same preparations as always so Leo is ready to fight. We respect every opponent too much to ever fall behind in conditioning.
 
“I think this is going to be a good fight. Leo is always very competitive and any time he can win a fight he knows it will be big for his career.
 
“Leo is 30-years-old right now and I think that he will be retired by 35. He has a lot left to accomplish in this sport and our team is going to keep pushing him to be the best that he can.”
 
RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports
 
“Top to bottom this is just a great card. It’s going to be toe-to-toe action downtown at L.A. Live. It’s an affordable ticket at $30, and that gives you the chance to see one of the stars of the sport in a slugfest.
 
“Leo Santa Cruz always brings great action and drama when he enters the ring. You have to be on the edge of your seat during a Leo Santa Cruz fight and I expect nothing less next Saturday night. Rafael Rivera has nothing to lose in this fight, and that is the recipe for a tremendous showdown.
 
“Boxing at Microsoft Theater has caught on. That fight in January between Caleb Plant and Jose Uzcategui had a great atmosphere and it is just a beautiful place to watch the fights. Microsoft Theater is becoming the indoor ‘war grounds’ of boxing.”
 
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
 
“Rafael Rivera put up a great fight against Joseph Diaz Jr., and he came back against Joet Gonzalez and lost a split-decision, but he really won that fight. Rivera should only have one loss on his record.
 
“Rivera is going into this fight with the same granite chin that he showed everyone against Diaz. He was prepared and ready when the call came for this fight. He’s a great replacement. Leo better be ready and not take him lightly.”
 
#         #       #
 
ABOUT SANTA CRUZ VS. RIVERA
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX
Deportes event that will see featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz take on
Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
 
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa battling hard-hitting John Molina Jr. and a matchup between unbeaten prospects Sebastien Fundora and Donnie Marshall.
 
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, ht
tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @Ringstar and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
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Mexico’s Cesar Juarez Battles Former Champion Ryosuka Iwasa in IBF Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator & Undefeated Carlos Licona Defends IBF Junior Flyweight Championship Against South Africa’s DeeJay Kriel on Saturday, February 16 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live

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Plus! 2016 Olympian Karlos Balderas, Hugo Centeno, Jr. and Ivan Redkach Appear in Separate Matches in Non-Televised Action

WBA Featherweight Champion Leo Santa Cruz Defends Title Against Rafael Rivera in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on
FOX & FOX Deportes

LOS ANGELES (February 5, 2019) – Mexico’s Cesar Juarez battles former champion Ryosuka Iwasa of Japan in a 12-round IBF Super Bantamweight title elimination match and undefeated IBF Junior Flyweight Champion Carlos Licona of Mexico clashes with South Africa’s DeeJay Kriel in non-televised action presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, February 16 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Action will also see 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas (6-0, 5 KOs) in a special six-round lightweight attraction, former title challenger Hugo Centeno, Jr. (26-2, 14 KOs) meeting Oscar Cortez (27-3, 14 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight bout and Ivan Redkach (21-4-1, 16 KOs) dueling Tyrone Harris (26-13, 16 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight match. The Balderas fight is a swing bout for the FOX and FOX Deportes telecast that will air live if time permits.
 
Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
Juarez (23-6, 17 KOs) has worked his way back into title contention since losing to Isaac Dogboe in a super bantamweight championship match last January. The 27-year-old from Mexico City fought three more times in 2018, scoring two stoppage victories and a unanimous decision over Jorge Sanchez most recently in September.
 
Iwasa (25-3, 16 KOs) won the IBF Super Bantamweight title with a TKO victory over Yukinori Oguni in 2017 and successfully defended it with a unanimous decision over Ernesto Saulong last March. The 29-year-old from Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan most recently lost the title by unanimous decision to T.J. Doheny in August.
 
Mexico’s Licona (14-0, 2 KOs) was very busy in 2018, fighting four times and winning the IBF Junior Flyweight title with a split decision over Mark Anthony Barriga on December 1. The 23-year-old from Mexico City, Mexico will be making his first title defense against the 23-year-old Kriel (14-1-1, 6 KOs). Fighting out of Johannesburg, South Africa, he will compete for the first time in the U.S. and is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Xolisa Magusha in March.
 
Non-televised undercard action also features unbeaten prospect Jose Gomez (11-0, 4 KOs) facing Jorge Luis Guzman (5-2-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight bout, undefeated super featherweight prospect Jerry Perez (10-0, 7 KOs) meeting Ivan Benitez (12-2, 4 KOs) in a four round match and a six-round super featherweight clash between Neri Ariel Romero (11-0, 7 KOs) and Roxberg Patrick Riley (13-1, 7 KOs).
 
Rounding out the card is undefeated super lightweight prospect Julian Rodarte (14-0-1, 6 KOs) competing against Miguel Mendoza (23-15-2, 22 KOs) in an eight-round match, Philippine featherweight and former world champion Marlon Tapales (31-2, 14 KOs) stepping in for a 10-round attraction and the pro debut of Shon Mondragon in a four-round super bantamweight fight.
 
#         #       #
 
ABOUT SANTA CRUZ VS. RIVERA
Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera is a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX
Deportes event that will see featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz take on
Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater
at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.
 
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa battling hard-hitting John Molina Jr. and a matchup between unbeaten prospects Sebastien Fundora and Donnie Marshall.
 
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, ht
tp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @Ringstar and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
boxing, HBO Boxing, Roc Nation

ROC NATION SPORTS & MIGUEL COTTO PROMOTIONS PRESENT throne boxing: WILFREDO VAZQUEZ JR. VS. RAFAEL RIVERA MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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PUERTO RICO’S VAZQUEZ JR. AND MEXICO’S RIVERA CLASH ON DECEMBER 5, 2015 AT OSCEOLA HERITAGE PARK IN KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA LIVE ON HBO LATINO® BOXING

 

Click HERE for Photos

Photo Credit: Roc Nation Sports & Miguel Cotto Promotions

 

KISSIMMEE, FL (Dec. 4, 2015) – Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions hosted a media workout ahead of throne boxing: Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. vs. Rafael Rivera which is set for Saturday, Dec. 5 from Osceola Heritage Park Exhibit Hall A in Kissimmee, Florida televised live on HBO Latino Boxing beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT. Former WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (24-1-5, 19 KOs) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico and undefeated Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera (20-0-2, 14 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico worked out ahead of their ten-round featherweight showdown this weekend.

 

Below is what the fighters had to say about their upcoming bouts.

 

WILFREDO VAZQUEZ JR., FORMER WBO JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

 

“I feel explosive and ready. I have that motivation that keeps me on. I’ve been working on my speed and movement just like I did when I began my career.

 

“Rivera is a classic Mexican fighter that will try to put pressure on me. We are ready to handle and take care of whatever he brings Saturday night.”

 

 

RAFAEL “BIG BANG” RIVERA, UNDEFEATED FEATHERWEIGHT:

 

“Just like my nickname says, I will be using my speed and my agility to win. I’m going to use all of the strategies I’ve been training with for the last two months.”

 

Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. vs. Rafael Rivera, a ten-round featherweight bout, takes placeSaturday, Dec. 5 at Osceola Heritage Park Exhibit Hall A in Kissimmee, Florida. This throne boxing event is presented by Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions and sponsored by Corporate Travel Management Solutions (ctms), Tequila Cazadores, Venue Kings and SportsLock. Also featured will be Alexander Brand vs. Medzhid Bektemirov in a ten-round light heavyweight bout which is presented in association with Camponovo Sports and Gary Shaw Productions.  The doubleheader will be televised live on HBO Latino beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

Tickets priced at $65 and $33, plus applicable service charges, are available for purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com and www.ohpark.com. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Osceola Heritage Park box office which is open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Saturday, Dec. 5 beginning at 8:00 a.m.

 

For more information please visit www.rocnation.com. Follow Roc Nation on Twitter and Instagram @rocnation and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation. Follow the conversation using #throneboxing.

boxing, HBO Boxing, Roc Nation

DUSTY HERNANDEZ-HARRISON TO NOW FACE AMMETH DIAZ ON DECEMBER 5 HBO LATINO® BOXING TELECAST

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NON-TELEVISED throne boxing UNDERCARD STACKED WITH

BOXING’S HOTTEST YOUNG PROSPECTS

AT OSCEOLA HERITAGE PARK

IN KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA

 

NEW YORK, NY (December 2, 2015) – Due to a visa issue, Canada’s Steve Claggett will be unable to participate in this weekend’s Dec. 5 televised co-feature bout against  (28-0, 15 KOs). Hernandez-Harrison will now face Ammeth Diaz (32-12, 23 KOs) of Panama City, Panama in the ten-round welterweight bout which will be the chief support to former WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (24-1-5, 19 KOs) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico against Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera (20-0-2, 14 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico. Opening the HBO Latino Boxing series televised event, which will air live beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Osceola Heritage Park Exhibit Hall A in Kissimmee, Florida, will be a ten-round light heavyweight bout featuring Colombian slugger Alexander Brand (24-1, 19 KOs) and Russian knockout artist Medzhid Bektemirov (16-0, 12 KOs).

 

Diaz, a former world title challenger who has won five of his last seven bouts, will look to put a blemish on Hernandez-Harrison’s undefeated record this Saturday. The Panamanian has held both the WBA Fedelatin and WBC Latino Lightweight titles and owns a win over Raymundo Beltran.

 

In addition to an exciting Dec. 5 televised lineup, some of boxing’s hottest rising stars will be featured on the non-televised undercard. Roc Nation Sports standouts Luis Arias and Wellington Romero along with Miguel Cotto Promotions’ Angel Acosta,Charlie Clemente, Josean Figueroa and Ricardo Rodriguez as well as Freddie Roach protégé Mike Melykian will all see action on Dec. 5 and aim to keep fans on their feet from the opening bell through beginning of the main event.

 

Tickets priced at $65 and $33, plus applicable service charges, are available for purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com and www.ohpark.com. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Osceola Heritage Park box office which is open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Saturday, Dec. 5 beginning at 8:00 a.m.

 

A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin now residing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, undefeated Luis “Cuba” Arias (12-0, 6 KOs) began boxing at the age of seven and compiled an amateur record of 140-25, earning U.S.A Boxing’s number one men’s junior ranking in 2006, the number one men’s under-19 ranking in 2008 and the number one men’s ranking in 2010. He captured the U.S.A. Men’s Under-19 National Championship in 2008 and two U.S.A Men’s National Championships in 2009 and 2010. Arias’ professional debut took place on November 10, 2012 at Staples Center in Los Angeles where he defeated Josh Thorpe via a four-round unanimous decision. He has reeled off 11 victories since, including three in 2015 with his last two coming by way of knockout.  On Dec. 5, he’ll look to keep his winning ways going in an eight-round super middleweight bout against Dinisio Miranda 22-12-2 (19 KOs) of Miami, Florida.

 

Fighting out of Newburgh, New York, but hailing from Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, Wellington “W.A.R.” Romero (8-0-1, 3 KOs) was a highly decorated amateur who was a proud member of the 2012 Dominican Olympic Boxing Team at the 2012 Games in London. Prior to that, he captured a bronze medal at the 2010 Central American Games and made back to back appearances at the 2011 World Amateur Boxing Championship and the 2011 Pan American Games. On October 26, 2013, Romero made his pro debut, defeating Victor Galindo via a four-round unanimous decision at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Since then he has won seven of his eight fights, with his lone set-back being an October 15, 2015 majority draw against Lazar Stojadinovic that many ringside observers had him winning. In his most recent bout on October 17, 2015 Romero scored a six-round unanimous decision victory against Ramesis Gil. On Dec. 5, he faces Noel Echevarria(11-6, 6 KOs) of Winston-Salem, North Carolina in a six-round junior welterweight bout. Guayama, Puerto Rico’s Echevarria most recently challenged Rod Salka on May 16 for the vacant WBA-NABA USA Super Featherweight title but came up short getting stopped in the sixth round.

 

Another product of Puerto Rico, Angel “Tito” Acosta (11-0, 11 KOs) will look to keep his perfect record intact on Dec. 5 against Felipe Rivas (2-2, 1 KO) of Nogales, Mexico in a six-round flyweight bout. On March 14 of this year, San Juan native Acosta took on Armando Vazquez for the vacant WBC Fecarbox Light Flyweight Championship at Coliseo Roger L. Mendoza in Caguas, Puerto Rico and came away with the title by scoring a viscous knockout in the seventh round. The undefeated prospect most recently faced Luis Almendarez on August 8, 2015 at Coliseo Hector Sola Bezares in Caguas, stopping his opponent with a first round knockout.

 

Undefeated Charlie Clemente (10-0, 4 KOs) of Carolina, Puerto Rico will also look to continue his winning ways on the Dec. 5. In his most recent bout on August 8, he scored two knockdowns en route to a four-round unanimous decision win against Elias Polanco at Gimnasio Wilfredo Rivera in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He will look to improve on his undefeated record when he takes on an opponent to be determined in a six-round flyweight bout.

 

In a six-round junior featherweight bout, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico’s Josean Figueroa (9-3-2, 7 KOs) will face Antoney Napunyi (11-13, 6 KOs) of Pahokee, Florida. In his last fight on June 6, Figueroa scored an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Jonell Nieves at Coliseo Ismael Delgado in Aguada, Puerto Rico.

 

In other non-televised undercard action, two Puerto Rico natives will challenge one another in a six-round junior featherweight bout when Ricardo Rodriguez (5-0, 4 KOs) of Mayaguez faces Bryan Perez (2-2, 1 KO) of Carolina. Rodriguez will look to extend his undefeated streak as he did most recently against Luis Hernandez on August 8 at Coliseo Hector Sola Bezares in Caguas when he won a four-round unanimous decision. Perez will be looking to rebound from a third round knockout against Marquel Jones on March 14 at the Sphinx Club in Washington, DC.

 

Opening the show will be Freddie Roach protégé Mike Melykian of Los Angeles who will be making his pro debut against Jimmy Rosario (0-1) of Bayamon in a four-round welterweight bout. Rosario made his pro debut on May 16, losing a unanimous decision against Ryan Pino at Coliseo Pedrin Zorilla in San Juan.

 

Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. vs. Rafael Rivera, a ten-round featherweight bout, takes placeSaturday, Dec. 5 at Osceola Heritage Park Exhibit Hall A in Kissimmee, Florida. This throne boxing event is presented by Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions and sponsored by Tequila Cazadores, ctms (Corporate Travel Made Simple) Venue Kings and Sportslock. Also featured will be undefeated Dusty Hernandez-Harrison vs. Ammeth Diaz in a ten-round welterweight bout and Alexander Brand vs. Medzhid Bektemirov in a ten-round light heavyweight bout which is presented in association with Camponovo Sports and Gary Shaw Productions.  The tripleheader will be televised live on HBO Latino beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

For more information please visit www.rocnation.com. Follow Roc Nation on Twitter and Instagram @rocnation and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation. Follow the conversation using #throneboxing.

boxing, HBO Boxing

MEDZHID “B-52” BEKTEMIROV VOWS TO BRING EXPLOSIVE FIGHT TO ALEXANDER BRAND

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HOUSTON, TX (December 2, 2015) – Undefeated WBA #12 and WBC #13 light heavyweight contender, Medzhid “B-52” Bektemirov (16-0, 12 KOs), vows to bring an explosive fight to Alexander Brand (24-1, 19 KOs) when the two face each other this Saturday, December 5, 2015 at the Osceola Heritage Center in Kissimmee, Florida.  The scheduled 10-round bout that will be shown live on HBO Latinobeginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.
“First impressions last forever and I’m going make mine a memorable one with an explosive fight,” said Medzhid “B-52” Bektemirov. “Fans can expect me to throw some big bombs, “B-52″ style, against Brand who I know is coming to fight.  Fighting on HBO is something I’ve been working toward since I became a professional boxer and I want to thank my promoters Gary Shaw and Lou Savarese for making this fight.  I’ll be looking to end the fight early, that you can bank on.”
“Savarese and I believe Bektemirov can become the next big star in the light heavyweight division.” saidGary Shaw. “He’s up against a very good fighter and he knows what’s on the line.  The fans are in for a treat this Saturday and I can’t wait to see “B-52″ drop some bombs.”
“There’s a nice buzz about this fight because both guys are going to leave everything in the ring come fight night,” said Lou Savarese. “Bektemirov has the opportunity to take his career to the next level with a victory and I believe he’ll come out on top.”
Tickets are priced at $60, $35 and $20, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com and www.ohpark.com.  To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.
boxing, HBO Boxing, Roc Nation

ROC NATION SPORTS & MIGUEL COTTO PROMOTIONS PRESENT

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WILFREDO VAZQUEZ JR. VS. RAFAEL RIVERA

ON DECEMBER 5, 2015 AT OSCEOLA HERITAGE PARK

IN KISSIMMEE, FL LIVE ON HBO® LATINO

 

NEW YORK, NY – Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions are pleased to announce their next co-promotion as part of the HBO Latino Boxing series. On Saturday, Dec. 5, former WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. (24-1-5, 19 KOs) of Bayamon, Puerto Rico will take on undefeated Rafael Rivera (20-0-2, 14 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico in a ten-round featherweight showdown from the Osceola Heritage Park Exhibit Hall in Kissimmee, Florida televised live on HBO Latino beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

 

In the televised co-feature, Dusty Hernandez-Harrison (28-0, 15 KOs) will take on Steve Claggett (23-1-3, 16 KOs) in a ten-round welterweight co-featured bout. Opening the HBO Latino telecast will be a ten-round light heavyweight tilt featuring Colombian slugger Alexander Brand (24-1, 19 KOs) and Russian knockout artist Medzhid Bektemirov (16-0, 12 KOs) which is presented in association with Camponovo Sports and Gary Shaw Productions.

 

Tickets are priced at $67 and $35. Tickets go on sale Thursday, November 19 at 12:00 PM ET and will be available at www.ticketmaster.com andwww.ohpark.com.  To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

 

“I’m very happy with my team and blessed by God to have the opportunity to do what I do best which is fight,” said Vazquez Jr. “I can see that Rivera is an excellent fighter looking to go far in this business, but I am coming to give it my all. I need to overcome this challenge in order to climb back to a number one rating and win a world title belt. It’s always exciting to be part of this great rivalry between Puerto Rico vs. Mexico and this one won’t be an exception.”

 

“It’s a real honor to be able to fight a former world champion and to do it on national television with HBO Latino,” said Rivera. “I’m young and hungry to be successful in the sport of boxing and I can’t wait to trade shots with Papito Vazquez.”

 

“Once again, Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions are committed to providing fight fans with an action-packed night of boxing onDec. 5,” said David Itskowitch, COO Boxing, Roc Nation Sports. “The HBO Latino broadcast will showcase three exciting fights featuring some of the brightest young talents in the sport.”

 

“We are excited to come back to Orlando, Florida to give the fans great fights,” said Hector Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions. “OnDec. 5, Vazquez Jr. has the opportunity to show that he still has what it takes to be at the top level of boxing when he faces a tough Mexican fighter that is hungry and willing to make a great fight. This will be another great chapter in the storied rivalry of Puerto Rico vs. Mexico.”

 

Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. has emerged from the large shadow of his father, Puerto Rican legend Wilfredo Vazquez, to make a name for himself inside the squared circle.  The 30-year-old former world champion from Bayamon is on a quest to capture a world title belt in the featherweight division.  After storming out of the gates with an 18 fight unbeaten streak, Vazquez captured the WBO junior featherweight world championship by defeating then fellow unbeaten Marvin Sonsona via a fourth round knockout on February 27, 2010 in his hometown.  Two successful title defenses followed before Vazquez lost his title to Three-Time World Champion Jorge Arce in an all-out war that the judges had a draw at the time of the twelfth round stoppage. Another world title challenge came against Six-Time World Champion Nonito Donaire on February 2, 2012, but Vazquez came up short, dropping a split decision to the champion.  In his last bout on June 6,Vazquez lost via a unanimous decision against Fernando Vargas in an eight-round bout at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on the undercard of Miguel Cotto vs. Daniel Geale. Dec. 5 is a true crossroads fight for the former world champion.

 

Undefeated featherweight boxer Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera made his pro debut on Aril 27, 2012 against Mario Lemus and came out with a technical knockout win in the second round. Since drawing in two of his next four fights, Rivera has reeled off 17 wins with 12 of them coming by way of knockout. In his last fight, Rivera scored an eight round unanimous decision win against Cancun, Mexico native Ruben Garcia in an eight round bout at Cache Creek Casino Resort in Brooks, California. On Dec. 5, Rivera will look to hold on to his undefeated record when he battles Vazquez Jr.

 

Washington, DC’s Dusty Hernandez-Harrison made his professional debut as the youngest licensed professional fighter in the United States on June 11, 2011, less than a month following his 17th birthday. Twenty-four straight victories would follow before Hernandez-Harrison headlined Roc Nation Sports’ inaugural throne boxing event at The Theater at Madison Square in a fight televised by FOX Sports 1 on January 9, 2015, capturing the vacant WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Championship with a dominant ten-round unanimous decision victory over Tommy “The Razor” Rainone. Since then, he’s continued his winning ways, scoring three more wins, including a first round knockout over James Wayka in his last fight on September 26. On the 5th of Dec., he’ll look to keep that momentum going against Steve Claggett.

 

Claggett (23-3-1), from Alberta, Canada, holds the Canada Professional Boxing Council welterweight title over his most recent fight over Stuart McLennan in a third round TKO and the Canada Welterweight Title from his win by unanimous decision earlier this year against Tebor Brosch. He looks to finish his winning year, and Hernandez-Harrison’s unbeaten streak, onDec. 5.

 

Bogota, Colombia native Alexander Brand is riding a seven fight winning streak dating back to July 2012. That streak began following his only professional defeat which came at the hands of current World Champion Badou Jack via an eight-round split decision on May 11, 2012. Since that fight, Brand has passed every ring test with flying colors, notching seven consecutive victories. In his last bout on August 9, he defeated Bernard Donfack by unanimous decision. He faces the sternest test of his professional career on Dec. 5 when he faces Bektemirov.

 

Born in Makhachkala, Russia, Medzhid Bektemirov began his professional career in 2009 in Houston Texas, where he currently resides. The undefeated Bektemirov’s 16-0 record includes 12 KOs. He most recently fought on April 18, 2015 at the University of Texas against Michael Gbenga, where he won an eight-round bout by unanimous decision. He looks to stay undefeated against Brand on Dec. 5.

 

Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. vs. Rafael Rivera, a ten-round featherweight bout, takes place Saturday, Dec. 5 at Osceola Heritage Park Exhibit Hall in Kissimmee, Florida and will be televised live on HBO Latino. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports and Miguel Cotto Promotions.

 

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