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DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Twenty-Year-Old Las Vegas Resident Takes On Former South African Champion In Battle Of Unbeatens Live at 10 p.m. ET/PT

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

SHREVEPORT – January 10, 2019 – Unbeaten lightweight and rising star Devin Haney and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni both made weight just a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event headlines a tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The precocious Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion who turned pro at age 17, headlines on ShoBox for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s 28-year-old Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), who like Haney is unbeaten and spent four months training at the Mayweather Gym in Las Vegas in 2017.  

The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com. 

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, Calif., will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) of Colombia in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez (10-0, 8 KOs) of Cuba and former college football player Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) of Indianapolis, Ind., squaring off in another eight-round bout.

All the fighters weighed at Paradise Theatre located inside Margaritaville Resort Casino.

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Lightweight 10-Round Bout 

Devin Haney – 134 ½ lbs. 

Xolisani Ndongeni – 134 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

Featherweight 8-Round Bout 

Ruben Villa – 126 ¾ lbs.

Ruben Cervera – 126 ½ lbs.

(Contracted weight is 128 pounds)

Referee: Laurence Cole (Dallas); Judges: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

Heavyweight 8-Round Bout 

Frank Sanchez – 216 ¼ lbs.

Willie Jake Jr. – 239 ½ lbs.

Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

FINAL QUOTES:

DEVIN HANEY:

“This is a 10-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International belts, so it’s a big deal. This is a true step up for me.

“It’s important for me build a name in different areas of the country. I’ve fought in Southern California and Philadelphia, and now I’m fighting in Louisiana. This fight I will show who Devin Haney is. In this fight I’ll showcase my skills and I’ll show my full arsenal.

“My style is not a style that people want to fight. I will fight whoever is out there. We haven’t been getting a lot call backs. I’ve had other offers from all the top promotion companies, but I want to remain independent and make my own decisions.

“My opponent has an awkward style. I know he has a lot of confidence and he thinks he can beat me. That’s great for him, but he hasn’t faced anyone with my combination of speed and power.

“At the end of my career I think it would be great if the world continued to say, ‘I don’t know if he can take a punch.’ That would be the goal.”

XOLISANI NDONGENI:

“I’ve trained and sparred with guys at Mayweather’s gym in Las Vegas for four months in 2017. I learned a lot got some great experience. 

“I see a young, good prospect in Devin Haney. I just have to keep to my game plan. He doesn’t realize how fast I am. I’ll show some different looks, and know what he’s planning to do. Whatever Haney brings, I’ll adjust.

“I’ve been in some deep waters and I have more rounds than Haney. That experience will pay off for me.

“I’ve been knocked down once in my career. It was early and I came back to knock him down five times and won the fight.

“Haney wants to be called a contender. I’ve been a contender and I know what it takes to be at the top level of the sport. I’ve never taken a fight I wasn’t prepared for or thought that I couldn’t win.”

RUBEN VILLA

“This is exciting and what we’ve been working toward. The contracted weight is 128 for this fight, but I’m a natural featherweight at 126. I’m a southpaw but a natural righty. I throw a lot of jabs, that’s my style.

“I’m representing Salinas and want to be a world champion someday. I’m only 21 years old, and to already be fighting on ShoBox is a dream come true.

“People say I don’t have the knockouts, but it’s in my mind and they will come. The power and knockouts will come.

“I once beat Devin [Haney] by unanimous decision in the amateurs. I was 15, and it was in the finals of the Junior Olympics. Devin’s real slick and aggressive and he moves well. That’s how you beat him.

RUBEN CERVERA

“I’ve never been to the U.S., and I love it here. The press conference and the amount of attention this fight is getting is amazing. I’m used to watching this kind of stuff on T.V. But my mind is totally focused on this fight.

“I have power in all my punches. I’m a strong fighter who has to take a step up in my career. I’m young, only 20 years old, so I’m anxious to get my career going.

“I know Villa is a southpaw. I’ve fought lefties several times in my career and have had no problem with it.

“There is a lot of talent in Colombia, but there aren’t the resources there to have a good career. You have to sacrifice a lot and that’s what I’ve done.”

FRANK SANCHEZ

“I’m 6-foot-4 and use my height to my advantage. I defected from Cuba in 2016 and my family is still in Cuba. My brother is the only one here in the States with me.

“I’m living in Miami now and training there. That will be my home base now.

“I’d love to fight [Deontay] Wilder. I want to be world champion so maybe someday I will. His technique is a little bit wild.

“I had great amateur experience and am a former member of the Cuban national amateur team. I know that will help me. I know there’s never been a heavyweight champion from Cuba, and I plan to be the first one.”

WILLIE JAKE JR.

“Indianapolis is a tough town to be a boxer because there’s not a lot going on there.

“I played college football [for Pasadena City College] but I hurt my wrist and decided to go into the military.

“[Frank] is a little fellow. He needs some maturing. I know they do things differently there in Cuba, but we both are fighting for our families. I’m going to let him know he needs to be a cruiserweight.”

#          #          #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

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DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Undefeated Top Lightweight Contender Haney Faces Fellow Unbeaten Ndongeni In The Main Event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, January 11 Live on SHOWTIME®

Click HERE for Photos from Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

SHREVEPORT, La. (January 9, 2019) –  One of boxing’s most promising rising stars, unbeaten lightweight Devin Haney, and fellow undefeated  Xolisani Ndongeni, kicked off fight week with a final press conference Wednesday at Paradise Theatre in Margaritaville Resort Casino ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation main event bout this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, headlines the popular prospect-oriented series for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), an unbeaten 28-year-old who once held the IBO’s belt at 135 pounds. 

The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.  Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com. 

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say:

DEVIN HANEY

“After this fight I want the whole world to know I’m no longer a prospect. I’m a contender.

“I feel I have something to prove. I’m not just going for the win on Friday night, I want to make a statement. I want to look good. I want to show the world what I’m capable of.

“I think that with a win against a fighter like Ndongeni, the sky is the limit. This fight is going to take me to the next level.”

XOLISANI NDONGENI

“Come Friday night, it’s going to be show time. Because, with all due respect, I’m no pushover and I didn’t come here to lose.

“I’ve been in the game for a long time. I have fought many styles and I’ve seen it all. I’m not scared.

“We are not looking for anything less than a win. I’m not leaving here without one.”

RUBEN VILLA

“I know my opponent is a really good fighter but I don’t feel any additional pressure. This is what we trained for – a tough fight. I’m excited for Friday night. I’m eager to perform.

“Being able to fight on TV is going to finally put me on the map. After Friday night, people are going to be talking about me. They are going to see what I’m made of.”

RUBEN CERVERA

“I’m originally from Colombia and traveling all the way here has not been easy, but we came ready. We had a very successful camp. We did everything we wanted to do and more.

“I’m excited to fight on national television in the United States. I want to showcase what Colombian fighters are made off.

“I know my opponent is good, and undefeated, but only the best man will win, and that is going to be me.”

WILLIE JAKE JR.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity. This is an important fight for me. During training camp, I took one day at a time, step by step. I’m prepared for the challenge.

“I don’t underestimate my opponent, I will listen to my corner and I will put up a great fight.”

#          #          #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

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BOXING’S RISING STAR DEVIN HANEY TAKES VIEWERS THROUGH A “DAY IN CAMP”; NEW VIDEO FEATURE RELEASED AHEAD OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION MAIN EVENT

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Haney vs. Ndongeni

Friday, Jan. 11 Live on SHOWTIME® From StageWorks Of Louisiana in Shreveport

WHAT: Devin Haney will kick off the 2019 boxing year headlining on ShoBox: The New Generation for the third time in his young career when he takes on fellow unbeaten Xolisani Ndongeni in a 10-round lightweight main event this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The supremely confident Haney of Las Vegas has everything going for him. In November he turned 20 years old, and is one of the youngest promoters in boxing history leading Devin Haney Promotions. SHOWTIME Sports has released a “Day in Camp” video feature and you quickly see why Haney is ONE OF BOXING’S BRIGHTEST YOUNG STARS.

Haney’s Bay Area training day begins at the ocean, where he says he sleeps and breathes better than when he’s in Las Vegas. Haney spars at famed trainer Virgil Hunter and former champion Andre Ward’s gym in Hayward, Calif., close to Haney’s childhood home in Oakland. He also pays a visit to world-renowned sports nutritionist expert Victor Conte’s SNAC facility where he simulates high-altitude workouts. 

In the new year, Haney only hopes to build his boxing skills, as well as his brand. “I want to go down as a multi-divisional world champion. Undisputed. I want to go down with the greats. I want my name to be mentioned with the best. My last year was big. A lot of people didn’t know me, and now they know me. It’s only going to get bigger in 2019. I will be fighting for a world title.”

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout. ��

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Ruben Villa Defends Unbeaten Record This Friday On ShoBox: The New Generation

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Live On SHOWTIME® At 10 p.m. ET/PT From StageWorks Of Louisiana In Shreveport

PHILADELPHIA, Penn. / ORANGE Calif.(Jan. 8, 2019) – Unbeaten featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) takes the next step in what has become a promising young career when he makes his national television debut this Friday in a co-featured fight of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader 

The eight-round bout takes place from StageWorks  of  Louisiana  in the southern U.S. city of Shreveport. Coverage airs live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10 p.m. ET/PT. 

Villa, a southpaw who turned 21 late last year, faces Colombian Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOS), who will be stepping up from super bantamweight to fight the former two-time Golden Gloves winner from Salinas, Calif.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to fight under the bright lights,” said Villa, who is co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “This is what all boxers plan for – to be showcased on a national platform. The focus will stay the same. I’m going to be aggressive and put my stamp on the fight. I’m looking forward to delivering a memorable performance.”

Villa is fighting a largely unknown talent in Cervera. He boasts an impressive record, but it has been built against marginal opposition. Villa, who started boxing at age five, comes from an outstanding amateur pedigree and has seen advanced styles in sparring sessions since turning professional in 2016.

“There’s not much video on him, but we know he likes to load up for big punches so we’ll be aware of that,” Villa said. “I’ll play it smart the first couple of rounds and see what he’s made of.”

The match up figures to provide a test for Villa in the sense that a lightly scouted fighter makes for a dangerous opponent.

“I’m just going to fight my fight,” Villa continued. “I’ll use my footwork to keep him off balance and get him tired. I can pressure him with my hand speed and land punches from angles that he won’t see coming.”

The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com. 

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UNDEFEATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT RONALD ELLIS RETURNS TO FACE DEANDRE WARE IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Highly Regarded Prospects Logan Yoon and Abraham Nova To Make ShoBox Debuts In Separate Bouts Of Three-Fight Telecast

Live At 10 p.m. ET/PT From Main Street Armory In Rochester, N.Y.

NEW YORK – January 8, 2019 – Undefeated super middleweight prospect Ronald Ellis returns to ShoBox: The New Generation seeking a statement win against DeAndre Ware in the 10-round main event of a three-fight telecast on Friday, February 1 live on SHOWTIME from Main Street Armory in Rochester, N.Y. 

The first of two February editions of the prospect developmental series will feature six fighters with a combined 89 wins against just three losses. The series returns just two weeks later on February 15 with a focus on the heavyweight division. 

In the February 1 co-featured fight, 20-year-old Hawaiian Logan Yoon (14-0, 11 KOs) will make his national television debut against Richard Zamora (18-2, 11 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout. 

In the opening bout of the telecast, former No. 1-ranked U.S. amateur Abraham Nova (12-0, 10 KOs) will face fellow-unbeaten Oluwaseun Joshua Wahab (18-0, 11 KOs), of Ghana, in an eight-round super featherweight bout. 

The 29-year-old Ellis, originally from Lynn, Mass., returns for his fourth ShoBox appearance as he seeks a statement win following a controversial draw in his last outing on the series. The former National Golden Gloves Gold Medalist out-boxed Junior Younan last February in a fight many observers thought he deserved to win. Still undefeated, Ellis returns as he looks to prove he has what it takes to turn from prospect to contender. 

“I need to make a statement,” said Ellis, who upset highly regarded Terrell Gausha to win the 2010 National Golden Gloves. “The last time I was on ShoBox I got a draw. This is the perfect opportunity for me to show I have what it takes. Ware won’t run – he comes at you, he roughs you up, and he’ll be right there for me to hit. I know what I am up against. I have been working hard, training in different camps and approaching this as the biggest fight of my life. I appreciate SHOWTIME for giving me another opportunity to prove I’m ready for the big show.”

The fan-friendly Ware suffered the first loss of his career last September in a close and entertaining brawl with Cem Kilic on ShoBox. The 2013 National Golden Gloves Bronze Medalist will look to return to the win column as he faces his third consecutive unbeaten opponent. The 30-year-old’s career-best victory came last year over 2012 Olympian and previously undefeated prospect Enrique Collazo. A former collegiate football player at the University of Toledo, Ware also works fulltime as a firefighter in his hometown of Toledo. 

“My last time out on ShoBox was great, but unfortunately I didn’t come out victorious,” Ware said.  “This time I’m looking to come out with my arm raised at the end of the fight. Ronald Ellis is a tough fighter, and I commend and respect anyone who steps in that square circle. I know a win against a tough, undefeated guy is what I need to get me on track to winning a world title. I see big things happening for me after a win like this. The sky is the limit after this win.”

The 20-year-old Yoon, who was born and raised in Honolulu, went 100-11 as an amateur before turning professional in 2016. Gifted with one-punch power, Yoon started his career with 10 straight knockouts before earning a unanimous decision over former world champion Juan Carlos Salgado in just his 11th professional fight. Yoon fought five times in 2018, and his level of opposition has steadily increased as he has gained experience. 

“This is a great opportunity to show the world what I already know – that I’m one of the best young fighters in the game,” Yoon said. “A win at this point of my career will open up new doors and will get me one step closer to where I want to be. We’re studying our opponent and putting a plan together for February 1. It will be my job to execute it.”

Zamora hails from Matehuala, San Luis Potosí, Mexico, where he compiled an amateur record of 60 wins against just four losses. The 25-year-old won the silver medal at the Mexican National Amateur Championships before turning professional in 2012. Zamora has fought his entire career in Mexico and will make his U.S. debut on February 1. He has won five straight since a 2017 loss to Antonio Moran, who recently dropped a close decision to Jose Pedraza. 

“This will be my first fight in America and I’m thrilled that it will be on ShoBox,” Zamora said. “I will win this for my parents that sacrificed a lot for me and for my wife and son – I can’t let them down. I am coming to win and to show everybody that Mexico will always produce proud champions.”

Born in Puerto Rico, the 24-year-old Nova fought as an amateur in the U.S. where he compiled a stellar record of 167-11. Nova, who fights out of Albany, N.Y., was the No. 1 ranked 141-pound fighter in the United States and won gold at the 2014 U.S. National Boxing Championships. He turned professional in 2016 shortly after losing a close decision in the Olympic Trials to Gary Antuanne Russell. The hard-hitting super featherweight picked up five wins in 2018 and will face just his second undefeated opponent on February 1. 

“I’m looking forward to making my ShoBox debut and the fact that it’s in Upstate New York makes it even more special,” Nova said. “I’ll have many of my friends, family and fans in attendance, so I plan on making a statement. You don’t want to miss it.”   

Wahab was born in Nigeria but fought as an amateur for Ghana, where he was a three-time national amateur champion. He has fought his entire professional career in Africa, where he has already been in five-scheduled 12 round fights. The 28-year-old Wahab is mentored by Ghanaian great Azumah Nelson, who is widely considered the greatest African boxer of all time. 

“In all honesty, I’ve watched his fights, and I respect all fighters, but Nova hasn’t seen a fighter like me yet,” Wahab said. “I’ll be leaving New York undefeated.” 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by GH3 Promotions in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, are priced at $100 for VIP Ringside, $50 for Preferred Seating, $30 for General Admission and $2,000 for VIP Tables.  Tickets can be purchased by calling 585-232-3221.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

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DEVIN HANEY MEDIA DAY QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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Undefeated top lightweight contender faces Xolisani Ndongeni in the Main Event of Shobox: The New Generation Friday, Jan. 11 Live on SHOWTIME®

Click HERE for Photos from Mario Serrano/Devin Haney Promotions


LAS VEGAS (December 28, 2018) – Heralded undefeated lightweight contender Devin Haney worked out for the media Thursday at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas ahead of his ShoBox: The New Generation main-event bout Friday, Jan. 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME®. 

The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, will headline on the popular up-and-coming prospect series ShoBox for the third time of his young career when he takes on fellow unbeaten Xolisani Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs) in a 10-round main event taking place at StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport. 

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout. Here is what Haney and his father and trainer Bill Haney had to say:


DEVIN HANEY On his recent training camp:

“Training camp has been fantastic. I always start in Las Vegas for the first two weeks. I then went to the Bay Area to train at the SNAC facility with Victor Conte for four weeks. I did a lot of rounds of sparring with Mario Barrios among others at Virgil Hunter’s gym as well.  Right now, I’m back in Las Vegas with my strength and conditioning coach Reggie. We are working hard, and I’ll be at my best when I step into the ring on Jan 11th.”

On facing South Africa’s undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni:“I know fighters from Africa always come to fight. Xolisani Ndongeni is no different. He’s very experienced and undefeated. Ndongeni has gone 12 rounds many times in his career. These are the type of fights I need to win impressively. I’m always looking to improve. Beating the tough South African will get me one step closer to a world title shot.”

On making his third appearance on ShoBox:
“Fighting on SHOWTIME’s ShoBox series has been amazing for my career. This is my third appearance on the series. It feels great to have a home to showcase my talent. Ndongeni will bring out the best in me. I’m ready to graduate to SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.”

On when he thinks he’ll be ready for a world title:
“I’ve climbed the rankings with good wins against Mason Menard and Juan Carlos Burgos. I’m rated in the top 10 in the WBA, WBC, and IBF. I’m focused on Ndongeni and January 11th is my time to shine.”

BILL HANEY, Devin’s Father and Trainer
On the progression of his son Devin Haney:
“Devin always impresses me with his work ethic and commitment to the game plan. Every day in the gym he is working on the little things that makes a fighter great. Devin has come a long way since his pro debut. Once he started fighting on SHOWTIME, he’s really stepped up his game. He’s a natural born fighter and one hell of a good entertainer.”

On picking his opponents:“We always look to step him up in competition. This is a big fight for us and we know what we are up against. These are the type of fights that are going to take him to the next level.”

On the landscape of the lightweight division:“The lightweight division is stacked and is one of the best in boxing. [Vasiliy] Lomachenko and [Mikey] Garcia are considered pound-for-pound top 10. The young guys coming up are very talented as well and to hold the lightweight title at this time you got to be a bad boy. Devin is marching up the rankings and hopefully by the end of the year, we’ll get our shot, but first we must handle business against Xolisani Ndongeni.” # # # 

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Hard Hitting Promotions goes 5-for-5 this past Friday night in Philadelphia

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Samuel Teah gets big win on ShoBox: The New Generation

Pizarro, Rosa, Tapia and Sinakin all gain wins on the undercard 

PHILADELPHIA — November 19, 2018 — This past Friday night, five members of the Hard Hitting Promotions stable scored big victories in front of a sold-out crowd at The 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

Samuel Teah scored a eight-round unanimous decision over Kenneth Sims Jr. in the co-feature bout of a ShoBox: The New Generation card.

 

 

 

The win was the biggest win of Teah’s career, who improved to 15-2-1.  Teah put on a great performance in the fight, which saw many toe-to-toe exchanges.  Teah landed more, and the harder punches, which thrilled the hometown crowd the was rooting Teah on.

 

 

 

Teah won by scores of 79-73 and 77-75 twice.

 

 

 

In fights that were seen live on Facebook Fightnight Live:

 

 

 

Branden Pizarro won the NBA Intercontinental Junior Welterweight title with a six-round unanimous decision over Jerome Rodriguez.

 

 

 

Pizarro of Philadelphia won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice to raise his mark to 13-1.

 

 

 

Gadwin Rosa was systematic in winning a six-round unanimous decision over 114-fight veteran German Meraz to capture the NBA Intercontinental super featherweight title.

 

 

 

Rosa won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice over the durable Meraz, and the Ocala, Florida native stays perfect at 9-0.

 

 

 

Christian Tapia stopped Darnell Pettis at the end of round three of their scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Tapia was dominant until the corner of Pettis had seen enough.  Tapia of Coamo, Puerto Rico is 7-0 with six knockouts.

 

 

 

Light Heavyweight Benny Sinakin needed just 2:23 of the 1st round stop Darren Gibbs.

 

 

 

Sinakin scored one knockdown before the bout was halted due to a barrage of punches on the ropes.

 

 

 

Sinakin of Philadelphia is now 2-0 with one knockout.

 

 

 

“This was a huge night for Hard Hitting Promotions.  We were able to showcase some of our younger talent with Branden and Gadwin winning their 1st of what we think will be many titles.  Samuel Teah gave an incredible performance, and he beat a good fighter in Kenneth Sims Jr.  Samuel will be in big fights, and he proved he can compete at the highest levels.  We had an incredible turnout for this show and, we look forward to announcing our 1st card for 2019 real soon,” said Manny Rivera and Will Ruiz of Hard Hitting Promotions

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TOP WELTERWEIGHT PROSPECT JARON ENNIS ELECTRIFIES HOMETOWN CROWD WITH DEVASTATING SECOND-ROUND KNOCKOUT OF RAYMOND SERRANO IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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Philadelphia’s Sam Teah Outclasses Kenneth Sims Jr. in Co-Featured Bout

 

Catch The Replay Monday, November 19 At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Watch the Ennis KO: https://s.sho.com/2TlRIDm

PHILADELPHIA (November 17, 2018) – Undefeated welterweight Jaron Ennis electrified his hometown crowd with a devastating second-round knockout of Raymond Serrano in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation in front of a standing-room only crowd at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Watch the knockout here: https://s.sho.com/2TlRIDm

 

 

 

The main event of the telecast – which featured five ShoBox veterans and three fighters who call Philadelphia home – did not last long. The battle-tested Serrano (24-6, 10 KOs), whose six professional losses have come against opponents with a combined fight night record of 111-1-1, proved to be no match for Ennis. The flashy southpaw with a deadly combination of speed and power scored three highlight reel knockdowns in round two, and capped off the night with an explosive uppercut to the jaw. The 21-year-old Ennis (22-0, 20 KOs) has now knocked out 12 consecutive opponents and has proven his worth as one of boxing’s brightest prospects.

 

 

 

“It was a good fight, I was just in there having fun,” said Ennis, who is trained by his father Bozy. “My dad said to start touching the body and that set up the big shots. That’s exactly what I did.

 

 

 

“I knew after the first knockdown, the fight was over. He’s a good fighter and it looks good to have his name on my resume. I’m ready for anybody in my division. I will knock any of them out.”

 

 

 

Ennis wouldn’t speculate if he was the best prospect in the U.S. “I don’t like to talk,” he said. “I do my talking in the ring.”

 

 

 

In the middle bout of the tripleheader, Philadelphia’s Sam Teah (14-2-1, 7 KOs) energized the hometown crowd by putting in a dominating performance en route to a unanimous decision (79-73 and 77-75 twice) over Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-2-1, 4 KOs). ClickHERE for the highlights.

 

 

 

Cheered on by chants of his nickname “Tsunami”, the 31-year-old Teah utilized his jab and set the pace throughout the eight rounds. Executing a clever game plan, Teah beat the volume-punching Sims at his own game as he averaged nearly 86 punches per round to Sims’ 59. After an even first two rounds, Teah began to pull away, as he landed 164 punches to just 91 for Sims in rounds three through eight. Teah grew stronger throughout the fight, and put the contest out of question in the final two rounds as he out-landed Sims, 53-28.

 

 

 

“Oh my goodness, this feels great,” said an overjoyed Teah. “This is my biggest stage. I’ve fought on SHOWTIME several times but now I’m at home in front of my friends and family and the energy was amazing. Body shots and uppercuts; that was the game plan. I had more in my arsenal to show tonight. My head might look like an acorn by tomorrow, but it’s worth it.

 

 

 

“I’m asking for the biggest fights,” he continued. “This is what I asked for. Let’s level up and whatever’s biggest next, let’s do it.”

 

 

 

Unified 154-pound world champion Jarrett Hurd, of Accokeek, Md., was in attendance at the jam-packed 2300 Arena and spoke to SHOWTIME’s Steve Farhood about his upcoming bout with Jason Welborn. Hurd returns to the ring to defend his IBF and WBA titles on the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury SHOWTIME PPV event on December 1 in Los Angeles in his first fight since undergoing rotator cuff surgery. Watch the interview here: https://s.sho.com/2Fti97o

 

 

 

In the telecast opener, undefeated Ukrainian prospect Arnold Khegai (14-0-1, 9 KOs) kept his unbeaten record intact with a hotly contested unanimous decision win over New Brunswick, N.J. native Jorge Diaz (19-6-1, 10 KOs), who announced his retirement immediately following the fight. The judges scored the fight 79-72, 77-74 twice. Click HERE for highlights.

 

 

 

Khegai, known for his aggressive come-forward style, stayed true to his reputation by pressing the action early. Despite suffering a cut over his left eye after an accidental clash of heads in the fourth round, Khegai was more accurate in all phases while Diaz’s activity made the fight competitive throughout the first five rounds. Khegai dazed Diaz in the fifth with a big left hook and followed it up by scoring the only knockdown of the fight in the sixth, landing a combination that forced Diaz to a knee. Tied at 122 total connects after seven rounds, Khegai clinched the fight with a huge eighth and final round where he landed 31 power punches to just 13 for Diaz.

 

 

 

“I’m very excited to get the win against a very uncomfortable fighter,” said Khegai through an interpreter. “He was tough and I had to stick to my game plan. He was doing different things and leaning in with his head. My main idea was to win the fight and I tried to get the knockout.

 

 

 

“I think I can fight a top 15 fighter next time and someday win a world title. Of course, it’s important to look good on SHOWTIME, but it’s even more important to have a good fight in America and to get the win. That’s what is most important.”

 

 

 

Diaz showed toughness and grit throughout the fight. “I am done. I am retiring,” he said. “I have so much more to do and accomplish in life. I gave it my all in rounds seven and eight. I got caught with a body shot in the last round and that’s when he jumped on me. I think he won because of the last round.”

 

 

 

Tonight’s tripleheader was promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions.

 

 

 

The full telecast will replay on Monday, November 19 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

 

Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with boxing analyst and historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

 

 

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

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SHOWTIME SPORTS® CAPTURES A DAY IN TRAINING CAMP WITH WELTERWEIGHT PROSPECT JARON ENNIS AS HE PREPARES TO HEADLINE IN HIS HOMETOWN OF PHILADELPHIA

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Ennis vs. Serrano Headlines ShoBox: The New Generation Live On SHOWTIME® At 9:35 p.m. ET/PT From 2300 Arena In Philadelphia

 

 Photo Credit: SHOWTIME

 

Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: s.sho.com/2QyCjOp

 

 

WHAT: SHOWTIME Sports delivers a day in the life of training camp with Philadelphia’s Jaron Ennis as he prepares to face Raymond Serrano in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation this Friday, November 16, live on SHOWTIME at 9:35 p.m. ET/PT from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Ennis (21-0, 19 KOs), who knocked out Armando Alvarez via third-round stoppage in hisShoBox debut in July, has knocked out 11 consecutive opponents. He faces perhaps the toughest test of his career in Serrano, a 29-fight veteran whose five losses have come against opponents with a combined fight night record of 89-1-1.

 

 

 

Training under his father Bozy, who also trained Jaron’s older brothers Derek Jr. and Farah, the 21-year-old undefeated prospect puts in work in what he describes as an ‘old-school’ training camp consisting of chopping wood, flipping tires and climbing rope. With victory in his hometown on his mind this Friday, Ennis vows to become a household name in the sport of boxing.

 

 

 

“When you’re a boxer from Philly, it means you have to put on a show,” says Ennis. “I love fighting at home, that’s the best feeling ever. People let the crowd get to them, I just feel at home. I feel comfortable and relaxed. I get to show out on SHOWTIME in Philly, get a win and look good doing it.

 

 

 

“My goal is to be world champ and be a great example for the kids. I want to unify, get all the belts, move up in weight and keep going, and keep going. Watch out all 147’s. A young animal is on the way!”

 

 

 

In the co-feature of Friday’s live ShoBox telecast, series veterans Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1, 4 KOs) and Samuel Teah (14-2-1, 7 KOs) meet in an eight-round super lightweight bout. Undefeated Ukrainian Arnold Khegai opens the three-fight card when he takes on New Jersey’s Jorge Diaz (19-5-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

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 Branden Pizarro And Gadwin Rosa To Compete For NBA Title Belts As Part Of Non-Televised Undercard Of ShoBox The New Generation Friday, November 16 At The 2300 Arena In Philadelphia

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Pizarro Battles Jerome Rodriguez; Rosa Takes On Veteran German Meraz

PHILADELPHIA — November 7, 2018 — Two members of the Hard Hitting Promotions stable will fight for NBA title belts on the non-televised undercard of a ShoBox: The New Generation event on Friday, November 16 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Junior welterweight Branden Pizarro will take on Jerome Rodriguez in an eight-round bout for the NBA Intercontinental title, while undefeated super featherweight Gadwin Rosa faces German Meraz in a six-round bout for the NBA Intercontinental title.

 

 

 

Those bouts will precede a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (9:35 p.m. ET/PT) that will feature an all-Philly showdown between undefeated Jaron Ennis and veteran Raymond Serrano. In the televised co-feature, Hard Hitting Promotions’ Samuel Teah will face Kenneth Sims Jr. in a junior welterweight bout. Opening the telecast will be a super bantamweight matchup between Arnold Khegai and Jorge Diaz.

 

 

 

“The NBA belt is a great springboard title, and to have two of our young prospects fight for titles on this great card is terrific for them,” said Manny Rivera of Hard Hitting Promotions. “The NBA has a long history of champions which include Roy Jones and Hector Camacho, so we definitely think that this will be the first of many titles for Branden and Gadwin.”

 

 

 

Pizarro, of Philadelphia, has a record of 12-1 with six knockouts, and the 19-year-old keeps improving with each fight. Rodriguez (7-10-3, 2 KOs), of Allentown, Penn., is battle tested and has wins over two undefeated fighters, including world-ranked Avery Sparrow.

 

 

 

Rosa ,of Ocala, Fla., is 8-0 with seven knockouts. The unbeaten super featherweight will look to continue his knockout prowess as he fights the 113-fight veteran German Meraz, who has faced numerous top prospects and contenders. For Rosa, this fight will be a solid indicator of where the talented youngster stands as he climbs the 130-pound ladder.

 

 

 

In more non-televised action:

 

 

 

Kieran Hooks (3-1-1, 1 KO), of Philadelphia, will fight Gledwin Ortiz (5-2, 4 KOs), of Bronx, N.Y., in a welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Christian Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs). of Coamo, Puerto Rico, fights Darnell Pettis (3-12), of Cleveland, in a super featherweight contest.

 

 

 

Light heavyweight Benny Sinakin (1-0), of Philadelphia, will face Darren Gibbs (1-5, 1 KO), of Ferndale, Mich.

 

 

 

Also seeing action against opponents to be named will be super bantamweight Angel Pizarro, of Philadelphia, and light heavyweight David Stevens, of Reading, Penn., who will make his professional debut in a cruiserweight fight.

 

 

 

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions, are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.