Tag Archives: Shobox

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Bright Prospects From Hard Hitting Promotions Highlight Non-Televised Undercard of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, November 16 At The 2300 Arena

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Hard Hitting Promotions Fighters Branden Pizarro, Gadwyn Rosa, Christian Tapia, Benny Sinakin To Compete In Off-TV Action
Plus Angel Pizarro, Kieran Hooks And The Pro Debut Of David Stephens
First Bout Begins At 7 p.m. ET Prior To SHOWTIME® Tripleheader Headlined By All-Philly Showdown Between Jaron Ennis And Raymond Serrano; ShoBox Veterans Kenneth Sims Jr. and Samuel Teah Clash in Co-Featured Bout

PHILADELPHIA — October 26, 2018 — A bevy of prospects will be on display as part of the non-televised undercard of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, November 16 at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Highly-touted junior welterweight Branden Pizarro will see action in an eight-round bout as he takes on Jerome Rodriguez.

 

 

 

The 19-year-old Pizarro, of Philadelphia, is a two-year professional with a record of 12-1 with six knockouts. One of the top amateurs in the country before turning professional, Pizarro has a knockout win over Abdiel Padilla. In his last bout, Pizarro stopped 30-fight veteran Justin Johnson in two rounds on October 6 at The 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

Rodriguez, of Allentown, Penn., has a record of 7-10-3 with two knockouts. The 32 year-old has big wins over Tre’Sean Wiggins (3-0) and world-ranked Avery Sparrow (4-0). Rodriguez, who has fought 10 undefeated opponents, is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Jeremy Cuevas on October 6 at The 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

In a six-round bout, Gadwyn Rosa (8-0, 7 KOs) of Ocala, Fla., will take on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

 

 

 

In four-round non-televised bouts:

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

Christian Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs), of Coamao, PR, will take on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

 

 

 

Benny Sinakin (1-0), of Philadelphia, takes on an opponent to be named in a light heavyweight bout.

 

 

 

Angel Pizarro (4-0, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, will take on an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

Former top-amateur standout, David Stevens, of Reading, Penn, will make his pro debut in a cruiserweight bout.

 

 

 

In the previously announced main event, highly touted unbeaten welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis will square off against 11-year professional Raymond Serrano in a Philadelphia vs. Philadelphia 10-round bout in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® at 9:35 p.m. ET/PT from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

In the co-feature, a pair of ShoBox veterans meet when Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1, 4 KOs) takes on Philadelphia’s Samuel Teah of Hard Hitting Promotions (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout. Also on the card, undefeated Ukrainian Arnold Khegai (13-0-1, 9 KOs) faces New Jersey’s Jorge Diaz (19-5-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

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.

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No Limit Mindset LLC. Fighters on a roll

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Kilic shines on ShoBox; Menard primes for big opportunity, and Henderson looking for step-up bout in December

 

Beverly Hills, Calif. (October 26, 2018) – As the season change, and the Fall season is upon us, Three members of Shane Shapiro’s No Limit Mindset LLC. management stable are making moves.

 

 

 

On September 28th, super middleweight, Cem Kilic won an eight-round unanimous decision over fellow undefeated fighter DeAndre Ware in a bout that was nationally televised on ShoBox: The New Generation from Temecula, California.

 

 

 

On October 13th, lightweight contender Mason Menard got back into the win column with a six-round unanimous decision over Ronald Rivas in Gary, Indiana.

 

 

 

Also, super middleweight Kalvin Henderson will look for a step-up bout in December when he takes on Brandon Robinson on December 7th in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Cem Kilic Improves To 12-0 After UD Win On ShoBox

 

 

 

“Cem gave an unbelievable performance showing his heart, his chin and his ultimate will to win! His last 2 opponents had a combined record of 19-1 and Cem showed me he’s exactly where he needs to be in terms of his development after 12 pro fights. DeAndre Ware beats a lot of guys at 168 lbs and with Cem winning a unanimous decision, this showed me why he’s considered one of the best prospects in Boxing. We had such great support from the local fans and so many people who tuned in live. A big thank you to Gordon Hall and Showtime for the opportunity!” – Manager Shane Shapiro

 

 

“Cem Kilic is a star in the making. His inspiring performance against DeAndre Ware was the next step in his evolution to become a world champion. The kid is the complete package in and out of the ring and is a true gentleman and a pleasure to work with. His upside is limitless!” – Kilic Promoter Greg Cohen

 

 

 

 

Celebrities who attended the fight for Kilic: Actors Nick Turturro, Cagatay Ulosoy, NBA World Champion Mehmet Okur, Boxing Hall of Famer World Champion Sugar Shane Mosley

 

 

 

Menard UD Ronald Rivas 10/13/18, Improves to 34-3

 

 

 

“It was good to get back in the ring get back in the Win column and shake off some rust. I was able to actually throw some punches and work on some things unlike the Haney fight where I was chasing around the ring for the entire fight. I saw some things that I need to work on and now I’m excited and ready to do a full 6 week training camp in Houston to bring out the best of me for December 8th!” – Mason Menard

 

 

 

Menard’s next high-profile bout will be announced shortly.

 

 

Kalvin Henderson Returns December 7th against Brandon Robinson in Philadelphia

 

 

 

10-0 Kalvin Henderson, fighting 11-1 Brandon Robinson, in his first fight with Marshall Kauffman’s King Promotions.

 

 

 

“I’m excited show the rest of the world what my team and I already know, and that’s that we have the skills, talent, and work ethic to become a world champion. I’m blessed for the opportunity Marshall presented to me and I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity. Hot Sauce will be bringing all of the heat with me come December,” said Henderson.

 

 

 

“This is a great fight for Kalvin’s development, Robinson is a tough veteran who will come to win. An impressive performance by Henderson, which is usually the case, tells me he’s ready for a big step up in 2019!. A big thank you to Marshall Kauffman for this opportunity.” – Manager Shane Shapiro

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UNDEFEATED WELTERWEIGHT PROSPECT JARON ENNIS TO FACE RAYMOND SERRANO IN AN ALL PHILADELPHIA MAIN EVENT OF NOVEMBER 16 SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TRIPLEHEADER

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ShoBox Veterans Kenneth Sims Jr. and Samuel Teah Clash in Co-Featured Bout
Friday, Nov. 16 Live On SHOWTIME® At 9:35 p.m. ET/PT
From 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

NEW YORK — October 24, 2018 — Highly touted unbeaten welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis will square off against 11-year professional Raymond Serrano in a Philadelphia vs. Philadelphia 10-round bout in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation, Friday, November 16 live on SHOWTIME® at 9:35 p.m. ET/PT from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

Ennis (21-0, 19 KOs) has knocked out 11 consecutive opponents including a third-round stoppage of Armando Alvarez in his ShoBox debut in July (Click  HERE for video). The 21-year-old Ennis, who compiled an amateur record of 58-3 and was the 2015 National Golden Gloves Champion before turning professional in 2016, faces a stern test in fellow Philadelphia native Raymond Serrano (24-5, 10 KOs), a 29-fight veteran who’s five losses have come against opponents with a combined record of 89-1-1 at the time of their meeting.

 

 

 

The three-fight telecast features five ShoBox veterans and three fighters who call Philadelphia home. In the co-feature, a pair of ShoBox veterans meet when Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1, 4 KOs) takes on Philadelphia’s Samuel Teah (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

 

 

 

Also on the card, undefeated Ukrainian Arnold Khegai (13-0-1, 9 KOs) faces New Jersey’s Jorge Diaz (19-5-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

Ennis returns to ShoBox for his second consecutive fight following a statement third-round knockout of then-unbeaten welterweight prospect Armando Alvarez in July. Making a name for himself in Philadelphia with his power and come-forward mentality, Ennis has scored 11 consecutive KO victories including two at 2300 Arena. A standout amateur who was ranked No. 1 at 141 pounds and won the 2015 National Golden Gloves tournament, Ennis narrowly missed the opportunity to represent the U.S. in the 2016 Olympics after losing a box-off to Gary Antuanne Russell at the Olympic Trials.

 

 

 

“Serrano is just another opponent on my way to my ultimate goal – a world championship,” said Ennis. “I am focused and I’m just going to keep working hard until I am able to accomplish that main goal. I can’t wait to display my talent once again on ShoBox.”

 

 

 

The 21-year-old Ennis currently trains under his father Derek “Bozy” Ennis Sr., who also trained his other sons Derek Jr. and Farah, both ShoBox veterans.

 

 

 

The 29-year-old Serrano turned professional in 2007 and rattled off 18 consecutive wins to start his career. Serrano, who will appear on ShoBox for the first time since his 2013 meeting with Emmanuel Taylor, will face his third consecutive unbeaten opponent after a No Contest against Gerome Quigley Jr. and a unanimous decision loss to 22-year-old welterweight prospect Malik Hawkins. Serrano, also from Philadelphia, had an impressive amateur career, winning the national and international Junior Olympic tournaments in 2005 and the Pennsylvania State Golden Gloves in 2006.

 

 

 

“I am excited – this is Philly vs. Philly,” said Serrano. “We are two of the best welterweights going at it. I believe my experience with my new trainer Shadeed Saluki will help me in this fight and I do not think he has been in the ring with anyone like me. I am excited to be on ShoBox because the world will see my talents. With a win, this will lead me to even bigger fights.”

 

 

 

Sims, a Chicago native, returns to ShoBox after his action-packed split-draw with unbeaten prospect Montana Love in July. Sims suffered the first and only loss of his career against Rolando Chinea via close majority decision on ShoBox a year prior but got back to his winning ways with a unanimous decision over Andrew Rodgers on October 13. The 24-year-old, who has sparred with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, was a 2013 U.S. National Amateur Champion and a 2012 Olympic Trials semifinalist.

 

 

 

“I am ready to fight,” said Sims. “I just fought on October 13 and got right back in the gym, so I am already in good shape. Teah is a good fighter but he is nothing special and certainly nothing that I haven’t seen before. I am happy to be back on ShoBox. I know they liked my last fight because it showed that I am only getting better and better every fight.”

 

 

 

Teah, born in Liberia and fighting out of Philadelphia, has had mixed luck on ShoBox. A two-fight veteran of the developmental series, Teah scored a unanimous decision over previously undefeated O’Shaquie Foster in 2015 but dropped a majority decision to Montana Love in February, an opponent who Sims Jr. drew with. Teah, who did not start boxing until the age of 19, scored an impressive first-round knockout of Zach Ramsey his last time out in August at 2300 Arena.

 

 

 

“I will be ready to fight come November 16,” said Teah. “I have seen Kenneth Sims fight. He is fast and was a good amateur. He just fought a draw against the last fighter who beat me, Montana Love. I am excited about fighting him and I am also excited to be on ShoBox. I always face a higher level of opposition when I am on and ShoBox is always a great showcase.”

 

 

 

The aggressive, come-forward Khegai made his U.S. debut at the 2300 Arena on ShoBox in May, registering the most impressive result of his career with a unanimous decision over Adam Lopez. The undefeated Khegai, who is a former Ukraine national amateur champion and two-time world champion in Thai boxing, made the switch to professional boxing in 2015 and has since compiled a near-perfect record while competing mostly in Russia.  Born to Korean parents in Lymanske, Ukraine, the all-action Khegai will make his second ShoBox appearance in search of another statement win.

 

 

 

“I am excited to be fighting in the U.S. on SHOWTIME,” said Khegai. “I look forward to putting on a memorable performance and cementing myself as a top name in the division. November 16 can’t come soon enough!”

 

 

 

Jorge Diaz Jr., from New Brunswick, New Jersey, is coming off a significant victory over then once-beaten Adam Lopez, an opponent Khegai also beat via decision. The 31-year-old Diaz, who last fought in November 2017, also boasts impressive victories over Olympic gold-medalist Yan Barthelemy and former title challengers Alejandro Lopez and Emmanuel Lucero. Diaz’s five professional losses have come against opponents that hold a combined record of 88-1-4.

 

 

 

“I feel very confident,” said Diaz. “My opponent is a good fighter, who is strong, aggressive, and throws sharp punches but I will be in tip-top shape. This is a very important fight for me. I have this great opportunity, so I will be dedicated and will give my best effort.”

 

 

 

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

 

# # #

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 78 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

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VIDEO: DEVIN HANEY SHOWS POISE BEYOND HIS YEARS IN THE SHOWTIME SPORTS® DIGITAL FRANCHISE, FIGHT NIGHT

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Watch, View & Share Via YouTube: https://s.sho.com/2DXF2PJ

WHAT: In the latest installment of the original digital franchise FIGHT NIGHT, SHOWTIME Sports® takes viewers behind the scenes of last Friday’s ShoBox: The New Generation main event, as 19-year-old Devin Haney scored an impressive unanimous decision over former world title-challenger Juan Carlos Burgos.

 

 

 

Devin Haney: FIGHT NIGHT takes viewers into the minds of the fighter and his family, from the pre-fight tranquility to the post-fight jubilation, with distinct cinematography and exclusive audio captured from Pechanga Resort Casino. Now a perfect 20-0 with 13 KOs, Haney showed poise beyond his years throughout his second consecutive ShoBox main event.

 

 

 

“When I’m getting my hands wrapped, when I’m lacing up my boots and putting on my uniform, that’s when it starts getting real and the butterflies set in”, said Haney just hours before entering the ring. “That’s when I know it’s time.”

 

 

 

The entire September 28 ShoBox: The New Generation telecast is available via SHOWTIME ANYTIME®, SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®

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DEVIN HANEY SCORES IMPRESSIVE DECISION OVER VETERAN JUAN CARLOS BURGOS IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

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Mattice and Hamazaryan Fight To Split Draw in Highly Anticipated Rematch

 

Catch The Replay Monday, October 1, At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE For Photos; Credit Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

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FORMER WORLD CHAMPION SERGIO MARTINEZ SPEAKS GLOWINGLY OF HIS TOP PROSPECT, JON FERNANDEZ, AHEAD OFSHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION® FRIDAY NIGHT

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Photo Credit: Showtime Sports

 

Fernandez vs. O’Shaquie Foster Headlines ShoBox Quadrupleheader Live at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

 

SHAWNEE, Okla. (Sept. 19, 2018) – Former unified world champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez sees big things for his protégé Jon “JonFer” Fernandez as the undefeated super featherweight prepares for his toughest test to date in O’Shaquie Foster in the headlining bout of ShoBox: The New Generation this Friday, September 21, live on SHOWTIME (9:45 p.m. ET/PT).

 

 

 

Martinez, known for his extensive career and impact inside the ring and now at the helm of Maravillabox Promotions, has managed Fernandez since 2015. Since his pro debut at only 19 years old, Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs) has climbed the prospect rankings while keeping his unblemished record intact, knocking out 88 percent of his opponents along the way. The 23-year-old Fernandez was named the No. 5 prospect in all of boxing on ESPN’s Top Prospects of 2017 list, and looks poised to challenge for a world title at 130 pounds in the near future.

 

 

 

This Friday’s quadrupleheader features eight prospects boasting a combined record of 81-2-1 and 56 KOs. The telecast opens with James Wilkins (5-0, 5 KOs), who is featured on SHOWTIME’s CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS documentary immediately preceding the ShoBox telecast at 9 p.m. ET/PT, taking on Misael Lopez (8-0, 4 KOs).  Also included on the card is a battle between undefeated featherweights Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) and Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs), plus and Brooklyn’s Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs) colliding with undefeated lightweight Philadelphia prospect Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs).

 

 

 

This week, the former world champ Martinez spoke to SHOWTIME about what the future might hold for Fernandez and his stablemate, fellow-undefeated prospect Carlos Ramos:

 

 

 

SERGIO “MARAVILLA” MARTINEZ:

 

 

How much has Jon progressed since the last time we saw him on SHOWTIME in June 2017?

 

 

“It’s been over a year since last time Jon fought in the United States. I’ve seen him mature as a person and as a boxer. He’s been in three very difficult fights, he knocked out a Panamanian Olympian and won the WBC Silver belt. He’s now ranked in the top 10 at super featherweight by the WBC.”

 

 

 

How far away do you believe Jon is from challenging for a world title opportunity?

 

 

“With every fight, JonFer is a step closer to an opportunity to showcase his talent on the big stage. I think 2019 will be the year where we see him in a big fight against another top 10 opponent or challenging for a title.”

 

 

 

You have sparred with Jon in the past, how did that go? Do you still train with him?

 

 

“I train with JonFer a few days a week. He’s so strong. I think he’s stronger than most 130-pounders, and he can pack a punch. He’s a power puncher.”

 

 

 

What initially drew you to work with Jon in the beginning?

 

 

“As soon as I met JonFer, I knew I wanted to work with him. His talent stood up right away. I knew he was a hungry, five-star boxer with world championship fever. The perfect prospect.”

 

 

 

How do you feel about the matchup Jon has on Friday night against O’Shaquie Foster?

 

 

“Foster is his toughest rival to date, so naturally I’m a little nervous.  But I know JonFer has what it takes to get the win. I have a second fighter on the card, Carlos Ramos. I’m always a little nervous when my boxers fight. It’s normal.”

 

 

 

Irvin Gonzalez is also undefeated, what does Carlos need to do for the victory?

 

 

“Carlos Ramos doesn’t have to do anything special to defeat Irvin Gonzalez. He just has to be himself. Ramos knows this is the biggest opportunity he has ever had and that this fight can change his life. That’s the best motivation he can have to bring his A-game to the ring on Friday.”

 

 

 

What are you thoughts on Carlos as a prospect?

 

 

“I have high hopes for Carlos. He has a lot of talent and is a southpaw, just like me. He reminds me of myself when I was starting. I believe in his potential.”

 

 

 

Presented by DiBella Entertainment, tickets for the event are priced at $60 for ringside, $40 for floor seats and $30 for general admission and can be purchased online at www.firelakearena.com or at the door on the night of the event.

 

 

 

# # #

 

 

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

 

 

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

 

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HALL OF FAMER STEVE FARHOOD CELEBRATES 40 YEARS IN BOXING

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SHOWTIME Boxing Analyst And Historian Gives Wish List Of Top Mythical Matchups Spanning Generations

 

NEW YORK (September 18, 2018) – International Boxing Hall of Famer Steve Farhood celebrates four decades in boxing this Tuesday, exactly 40 years since he started working exclusively in the business in 1978.

 

 

 

Farhood began his career writing for various boxing publications at London Publishing on Monday, September 18, just three days after Muhammad Ali regained the heavyweight title vs. Leon Spinks on Friday, September 15.

 

 

 

After launching KO Magazine in 1980 and serving as editor-in-chief of The Ring Magazine for nearly a decade, Farhood joined SHOWTIME in 2001 and has been a staple on the ShoBox: The New Generation series since its inception more than 17 years ago.

 

 

 

Over the past 40 years, Farhood has nearly seen it all in the Sweet Science.  Now, as he prepares for consecutive Fridays of ShoBox telecasts, the lifelong New Yorker lists a handful of mythical matchups he’d love to see, regardless of the generation.

 

 

 

FARHOOD’S TOP MYTHICAL MATCHUPS:

 

 

 

Joe Frazier-Mike Tyson (heavyweight): The ultimate dream fight. No jabs allowed.

 

 

 

Roberto Duran-Alexis Arguello (lightweight): They were both 135-pounders, just not at the same time.

 

 

 

Sugar Ray Robinson-Sugar Ray Leonard (welterweight): Biggest crime in boxing history: There’s no video of Robinson as a welter, when he was at his very best.

 

 

 

Sugar Ray Leonard-Floyd Mayweather Jr. (welterweight): The best fighter I’ve ever covered versus the best fighter of this generation.

 

 

 

Jack Dempsey-Rocky Marciano (heavyweight): Boxing’s big men were smaller back in the day, but pound-for-pound, nobody hit harder than these two.

 

 

 

Marvin Hagler-Carlos Monzon (middleweight): All-timer vs. all-timer. My guess: Monzon’s style would be all wrong for Hagler. Match B-Hop (Bernard Hopkins) with the winner.

 

 

 

Salvador Sanchez-Eusebio Pedroza (featherweights): My opinion on this delicious matchup of Hall of Famers is an unpopular one: Pedroza wins on points.

 

 

 

Wilfredo Gomez-Manny Pacquiao (junior featherweights): In the early-‘80s, Gomez was as close to a perfect fighting machine as there was. But would his chin hold up vs. a 122-pound Manny?

 

 

 

This Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation, top undefeated super featherweight prospect Jon Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs) will clash with O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the 10-round main event of a four-fight card featuring eight fighters with a combined record of 81-2-1 with 56 knockouts.

 

 

 

Next Friday, September 28, ShoBox returns for a tripleheader headlined by 19-year-old blue-chip prospect Devin Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) taking on former three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs).

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

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SHOWTIME SPORTS® RELEASES CONTROVERSIAL THOMAS MATTICE vs. ZHORA HAMAZARYAN FULL-LENGTH FIGHT IN ADVANCE OF REMATCH FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

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Immediate Rematch Set For Co-Feature Of Tripleheader Featuring Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Burgos From Pechanga Resort Casino In Temecula, Calif.

 

Photo Credit: Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

 

Watch, Share or Embed Mattice vs. Hamazaryan: https://s.sho.com/2OhsH9G

WHAT: Fans can relive the controversial first fight between lightweight contenders Thomas Mattice and Zhora Hamazaryan, available now in its entirety on SHOWTIME Boxing YouTube channel ahead of the rematch September 28 in the second of back-to-back Fridays of ShoBox: The New Generation action.

In one of the most widely disputed fights of 2018, Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact when he overcame a knockdown in the second round to escape with the eight-round split-decision victory over the previously undefeated Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs). Two judges scored the fight 76-75 in favor of Mattice with the third judge scoring it 77-74 in favor of Hamazaryan.

Less than three months after judges in Iowa awarded Mattice what Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood called “the worst decision I’ve ever seen in the history of ShoBox”, Mattice and Hamazaryan will face off in the co-feature of the ShoBox telecast from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif.

Hamazaryan, who recently returned stateside after an extended stay to be with family and train in his native Armenia, is looking forward to his opportunity to exact revenge.

“I respect Thomas Mattice,” said Hamazaryan, who is currently training with John Pullman and Buddy McGirt. “He fought a good fight last time, but everyone knows I won the fight and he does too. I respect that I got a rematch and we can settle this once and for all.

“My game plan is to do the same thing I did last time, but just more pressure and aggression. Because of what happened last time, I can’t leave it up to judges. I must get the knockout. If I don’t, then the same thing will happen again and I will get robbed. I can’t have that.”

Mattice, who has watched the July fight multiple times, is hoping to prove that his decision win was no fluke.

“It was important to me to get this rematch so that I can display to the fans the kind of fighter I am and show that I deserved to win the first fight. I’m looking to continue my rise and show the world that I’m the real deal.

“We’re just trying to work on the mistakes we made in the first fight. He may try to do things differently this time, but we’ll adjust and be ready come fight night. It was a controversial decision but I have to remember that at the end of the day I’m a fighter and not a judge. I just have to go out there and fight my fight, and things will be taken care of.”

The September 28 ShoBox is headlined by top undefeated lightweight prospect Devin Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) facing three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs). The opener will see two undefeated middleweight prospects meet as Cem Kilic (11-0, 7 KOs) and Donnie Marshall (9-0, 6 KOs) face off in the ninth matchup of undefeated prospects of 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation. The previous Friday, Jon Fernandez (16-0-0, 14 KOs), one of the top prospects in boxing and Sergio Martinez protégé, will face O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox telecast from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 77 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

amateur boxing, boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

UNDEFEATED PROSPECT JAMES WILKINS MAKES NATIONAL TELEVISION DEBUT ON SEPTEMBER 21 SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FOLLOWING PREMIERE OF DOCUMENTARY CHRONICLING HIS PATH THROUGH GOLDEN GLOVES

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Former Amateur Standout Featured in Film CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, Premiering September 21 on SHOWTIME at 8 p.m. ET/PT Prior to ShoBox: The New Generation Telecast 9:45 p.m. ET/PT

 

 

View CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS TRAILER HERE

NEW YORK – September 12, 2018 – Undefeated super featherweight and former amateur standout James Wilkins will make his live television debut on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, September 21 immediately following the SHOWTIME premiere of CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, a documentary chronicling Wilkins and the 2015 New York Golden Gloves boxing tournament. Wilkins will face undefeated featherweight prospect Misael Lopez (8-0, 4 KOs) in the opening bout of what is now a four-fight ShoBox telecast. The back-to-back programs will begin at 8 p.m. ET/PT with CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS airing before the live ShoBox telecast at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT from Firelake Arena in Shawnee, Okla.

Wilkins, of New York City, has five wins and five knockouts since turning professional two years ago following an accomplished amateur run. CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS documents one of the pinnacle moments of his amateur career as the Staten Island native fights through the 10-week tournament in hopes of establishing himself as an elite amateur prospect. Having already won the New York Golden Gloves in 2013 at 123 pounds, CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS chronicles Wilkins’ journey as a 19-year-old competing in the 132-pound class and culminates with a dramatic 2015 championship bout.

“I’m honored to be a part of CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS,” the 22-year-old Wilkins said. “Fighting in the Golden Gloves was a life-changing experience for me and it’s a great feeling to know that boxing fans can watch the documentary on SHOWTIME and then watch my ShoBox debut right after.”

“They call me ‘Crunchtime’ and that’s what I’m bringing to ShoBox on September 21. I’ll be ripping and running and I look forward to putting on a spectacular performance against Misael Lopez.”

Wilkins, who counts former four-division champion Roy Jones Jr. and former two-division champion Paulie Malignaggi as mentors, fought his way to the 2016 Olympic Trails in what was his last amateur tournament. His professional debut came in June of 2016 when he defeated Jack Grady via second-round knockout in a super lightweight contest.

In Friday’s main event, undefeated super featherweight prospect Jon Fernandez (16-0, 14 KOs) will clash with O’Shaquie Foster (13-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-round super featherweight bout. In the eight-round co-featured bouts, Irvin Gonzalez Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) meets Carlos Ramos (9-0, 6 KOs) in a featherweight matchup, and Wesley Ferrer (12-0-1, 7 KOs) will face Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs) in a battle of lightweights.

Presented by DiBella Entertainment, tickets for the event are priced at $60 for ringside, $40 for floor seats and $30 for general admission and can be purchased in advance.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

TOP PROSPECT DEVIN HANEY TO FACE FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER JUAN CARLOS BURGOS IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATIONFRIDAY, SEPT. 28 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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Immediate Rematch Of Widely Disputed Thomas Mattice vs. Zhora Hamazaryan Bout Set For Co-Feature Of Tripleheader From Pechanga Resort Casino In Temecula, Calif.

NEW YORK (August 20, 2018) – Top undefeated lightweight prospect Devin Haney will face three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos in the 10-round main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader Friday Sept. 28 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif.

 

 

 

The 19-year-old Haney (19-0, 13 KOs) returns for his second consecutive challenge of 2018 on ShoBox, this time against Burgos (33-2-2, 21 KOs), a veteran of 37 fights whose only defeats have come in world championship bouts.

 

 

 

The co-feature of the second Friday of back-to-back ShoBox telecasts will feature an immediate rematch of one of 2018’s most controversial and widely disputed fights. Lightweights Thomas Mattice (13-0, 10 KOs) and Zhora Hamazaryan (9-1, 6 KOs) will face off less than three months after judges in Iowa awarded Mattice what Hall of Fame analyst Steve Farhood called “the worst decision I’ve seen in the history of ShoBox.”

 

 

 

Two undefeated middleweight prospects will meet in the opening bout of the tripleheader as Cem Kilic (11-0, 7 KOs) and Donnie Marshall (9-0, 6 KOs) face off in the ninth matchup of undefeated prospects of 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation.

 

 

 

“Devin Haney exceeded all expectations on ShoBox in May and he’s returning in another step-up fight against a three-time world title challenger,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer ofShoBox: The New Generation. “Haney is already one of the best prospects in boxing, and a victory against Burgos could put him in a position for a title shot in 2019.

 

 

 

“We’re thrilled to deliver the immediate rematch between Mattice and Hamazaryan. Simply put, it’s good for the fighters and good for the sport of boxing. Credit goes to the fighters, their promoters and managers that both camps were ready and willing to accept this immediate rematch.”

 

 

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Ringside Tickets Inc., priced $19 for General Admission, $29, $59, $79, $99, and $129 for Ringside, are on sale now, and can be purchased by calling the Pechanga Casino Box Office at 1-888-810-8871 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

 

 

Devin Haney vs. Juan Carlos Burgos – 10-round lightweight bout

Haney was a seven-time national junior amateur champion and has been considered one of boxing’s top prospects since turning professional at the age of 16 in Mexico. He faced the toughest test of his career this May on ShoBox, shutting out Mason Menard over nine rounds before Menard’s corner threw in the towel before the start of the 10th and final round. VIDEO:https://youtu.be/1NM2lOWdzHw

 

 

 

The young and flashy Haney, who grew up in Oakland, Calif., fights out of Las Vegas, where he has earned a reputation as a prodigy having sparred with Floyd Mayweather, Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Rances Barthelemy. Haney, who is trained and managed by his father, William Haney, received a special exception to make his U.S. debut on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao vs. Timothy Bradley III when he was just 17 years old.

 

 

 

“Burgos is a tough fighter who has been in several world title fights, so I know he’s going to be ready for war,” Haney said. “He’s been in with Mikey Garcia and Rocky Martinez, so I know he’s my toughest opponent to date. I’m ready to shine once again on SHOWTIME, give the fans another great performance and prove I’m ready to take the next step.”

 

 

 

Burgos ran up a 25-0 record with 19 KOs to start his professional career before earning a world title shot when he was just 22 years old, dropping a decision to Hozumi Hasegawa in 2010 in Japan. The Tijuana, Mexico native went unbeaten in his next seven fights, including a draw in a title challenge against then-WBO Junior Lightweight World Champion Roman Martinez.

 

 

 

Burgos challenged 130-pound champion Mikey Garcia in 2014, losing a unanimous decision against the pound-for-pound mainstay. He has since won three consecutive bouts from 2016-17 after taking a nearly three-year hiatus from boxing.

 

 

 

“Devin Haney is good fighter but my experience in big fights will be the difference when we step in the ring,” Burgos said. “My back is against the wall and I’m ready to rise to the occasion and get this victory. He might think he’s the next big thing, but I’m at a whole different level.”

 

 

 

Thomas Mattice vs. Zhora Hamazaryan II – Eight-round lightweight bout

Mattice and Hamazaryan initially faced off in a matchup of unbeaten prospects on July 20, with the judges in Iowa awarding Mattice a 76-76, 76-75, 77-74 split decision. The result, however, was widely disputed. Hamazaryan floored Mattice in the second round and pressed the action in the final three rounds before leaving the decision in the judges’ hands. Two days after the fight, Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions appealed the decision on behalf of their fighter, Hamazaryan.

 

 

 

The 28-year-old Mattice, of Cleveland, had scored five consecutive knockouts before winning the split decision over Hamazaryan. This will be Mattice’s third ShoBox appearance of the year.

 

 

 

“I didn’t hesitate one second when the rematch was offered,” Mattice said. “I’m going into this fight with victory on my mind, and there’s nothing Hamazaryan can do to stop me. My hands will be raised once again.”

 

 

 

Hamazaryan was the No. 1 fighter in Armenia during an amateur career that spanned over 200 fights. The 22-year-old will make his third consecutive start in the U.S. as he looks to avenge the only loss of his professional career.

 

 

 

“Everyone knows I beat Mattice in our last fight but I was robbed,” Hamazaryan said. “Now it’s time to put matters into my own hands and go for the knockout. He better be ready for the onslaught because it’s coming. He went down last time, but this time he won’t be getting up.”

 

 

 

Cem Kilic vs. Donnie Marshall – Eight-round middleweight bout

 

 

Kilic trains in Los Angeles under Buddy McGirt and won silver at the 2012 European Championships for Turkey. The 24-year-old, who recorded an 82-6 record as an amateur, has served as a sparring partner for Errol Spence, Jermell Charlo, Jean Pascal and Miguel Cotto. While Kilic has scored knockouts in five of his last six fights, he will face by far the toughest opponent of his career in Marshall, a fellow unbeaten yet untested prospect.

 

 

 

“This is the turning point in my career fighting on SHOWTIME against another undefeated fighter,” Kilic said. “I’m going to leave it all in the ring and the fans are going to see a great fight. One thing is for sure, I will be victorious.”

 

 

 

Marshall was born in Buffalo, N.Y., and fights out of Raleigh, N.C. Former title challenger Ross “The Boss” Thompson trains the 29-year-old Marshall, who was named the 2017 North Carolina Fighter of the Year.

 

 

 

“I’m ready to take my career to the next level and remain undefeated,” Marshall said. “Kilic is in for a rude awakening. He’s never been in the ring with a hungry fighter like me. I’m going to win and win impressively.”

 

 

 

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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.