Tag Archives: Showtime boxing

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RISING LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT THOMAS MATTICE TO FACE ISAAC CRUZ GONZALEZ IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment
Four-Fight Card Also Features Undefeated Prospects Raeese Aleem, Montana Love And Derrick Colemon Jr. In Toughest Tests Of Their Careers


 
NEW YORK – January 22, 2020 – Rising lightweight prospect Thomas Mattice will face hard-hitting Isaac Cruz Gonzalez in the 10-round main event of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, February 14 live on SHOWTIME from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. 


 
The four-fight telecast is the third of four ShoBox presentations over six weeks showcasing some of boxing’s brightest young prospects in their toughest tests to date, including super lightweight prospect Shohjahon Ergashev and super middleweight Vladimir Shishkin, who were victorious on January 17. On January 31, featherweight Ruben Villa and welterweight Taras Shelestyuk will be tested and on February 28, super lightweight Malik Hawkins and welterweight Richardson Hitchins face tough opposition. 


 
In the co-featured bout on February 14, undefeated super bantamweight Raeese Aleem (15-0, 9 KOs), of Las Vegas, will take onShoBox veteran and San Antonio native Adam Lopez (19-3-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round 122-pound bout.  In a matchup of undefeated junior welterweights, Cleveland’s Montana Love (12-0-1, 6 KOs) returns to ShoBox in an eight-round showdown with New Orleans’ Jerrico Walton (16-0, 7 KOs).  In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated junior middleweights Derrick Colemon Jr. (11-0, 8 KOs), of Detroit, and Joseph Jackson (15-0, 12 KOs), of North Carolina, will square off in an eight-round 154-pound bout. 


 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by GH3 Promotions and King’s Promotions are $100, $75 and $50 and be purchased atwww.2300arena.com


 
Cleveland’s Mattice (15-1-1, 11 KOs) is coming off his most significant win to date, an eight-round TKO of previously undefeated Michael Dutchover last September on ShoBox.  The fight was stopped due to a deep gash on Dutchover caused by a clean right hand from Mattice.  The judges’ scorecards were split at the time of the stoppage.  Mattice will be making his sixth start on the prospect developmental series, including a close loss to Will Madera in 2019, a split decision win and a split draw with Zhora Hamazaryan in 2018, and a knockout of Rolando Chinea.  The 29-year-old hopes a convincing win over the top-10 ranked Gonzalez will move him closer to a world title shot. 


 
“A win would be huge for my career and put me in a great position,” Mattice said.  “It would put me in the conversation with the top dogs of the division.  I have to put on a great performance and let all those top fighters know that I’m here and ready to fight anyone.  It’s a must-win for me, but it’s a big fight for both of us.  He is ranked No. 7 by the IBF so this has the feel of a big fight.  I think a win would put me in the top-10.”


 
Gonzalez (18-1-1, 14 KOs), of Mexico City, has scored knockouts in 11 of his last 14 fights since suffering only loss of his career in just his sixth professional fight.  The 22-year-old owns a career-best knockout of former interim world title challenger Jose Felix Jr. in 2018.  Currently ranked No. 7 by the IBF at 135 pounds, Gonzalez made his U.S. debut in December on the non-televised undercard of the Jermall Charlo vs. Dennis Hogan event at Barclays Center in Brooklyn last December. 


 
“I am excited to be fighting in the United States and I am thrilled for my fight to be shown on SHOWTIME,” said Gonzalea. “So many fighters started their career on ShoBox and have become World Champions.”


 
Aleem compiled a 65-10 record as an amateur and was a five-time Golden Gloves State Champion in Michigan.  He finished third at the National Golden Gloves in 2010 and 2011 before turning professional in 2011.  The 29-year-old recently relocated his training camp to Las Vegas, where he has sparred with Jessie Magdaleno, Nonito Donaire and Jhack Tepora.  Aleem, who is trained by Terry Markowski, will face the toughest test of his career in the veteran Lopez. 


 
“All my hard work is paying off and now I get to show it on the big stage,” Aleem said.  “I am looking forward to earning new fans and staying on a roll.  I know Lopez is a really tough fighter with something to prove.  He’s been here before so I know he’s ready for the challenge.  This is a steppingstone to ultimately get where I want to be, and that’s fighting for a world title, bigger paydays and more exposure.  Ultimately, I don’t just want to win, I want to dominate.  Winning isn’t good enough – I also have to look good while doing it.”


 
Lopez was an accomplished amateur who won six national titles and held a No. 1 ranking, but he has had an up and down career as a pro.  The 29-year-old started his career with 15 straight victories yet he has suffered a few setbacks as his level of opposition has dramatically increased.  Lopez was undefeated and one win away from challenging for a world championship before losing to current unified 122-pound champion Daniel Roman in a title eliminator in 2017 on SHOWTIME.  Lopez, who will break his own record ofShoBox appearances when he steps into the ring for the eighth time, will face his sixth undefeated opponent on the series as he looks to get his career back on track.


 
“Aleem is a pretty good fighter, but I think my experience is going to be a factor,” Lopez said.  “He hasn’t fought top-tier guys with the exception of Marcus Bates.  I have been in the big fights and this is his first time doing this.  I am on a three-fight winning streak and I have rededicated myself to the sport.  I have a new trainer, Chato Martinez, and a whole new camp.  I can’t wait to show that I am back.”


 
The flashy Love was an accomplished amateur who compiled a 174-13 record.  The 25-year-old southpaw will return for his third test on ShoBox as he seeks a convincing victory.  In his first bout on the series, he won a majority decision over Samuel Teah in 2018 and followed that up with a split draw a few months later against Kenneth Sims Jr.  Love, who has sparred with Adrien Broner and Robert Easter Jr., will face what should be his most dangerous opponent in the fellow-undefeated Walton.


 
“Walton is a decent fighter, but I feel he is still green and he doesn’t have that much experience,” Love said.  “I know he is tough, but I am taking this to the next level.  He’s just a stepping stone.  It’s exciting to fight under the bright lights.  Some guys fold, but I was made for this. I am not looking past him, but this will take my career to the next level.  We are both undefeated and not many guys take risks like this, but this shows I am a true fighter.  My name is Montana “Too Pretty Love” and I am fighting on Valentine’s Day, so I will be giving a lot of love out on February 14.”


 
The 29-year-old Walton was born and raised in New Orleans, where he rescued his mother and sister from the flood waters of Hurricane Katrina when he was just 13 years old.  Left homeless, the family relocated to Houston, where Walton competed as an amateur.  Walton turned professional in 2014 and has been perfect through his first 16 fights, including a career-best win over former super bantamweight world champion Victor Terrazas in 2019.  The boxer-puncher, who is trained by Bobby Benton and fought six times last year, will face the first undefeated opponent of his career in Love.


 
“I have seen Montana fight before.  I know he is flashy in the Adrien Broner mode, but other than that I do not know too much about him,” Walton said.  “This opportunity is a blessing.  The world is going to get to see me and hear my story.  I’m from New Orleans and it was a struggle for me growing up, so this is a great opportunity.  I never in a million years thought that I would be in this position.  I just need to seize the moment and get the victory.”


 
Just 20 years old, Colemon started boxing at the age of 4 and honed his craft at the original Kronk Gym under Emanuel Steward until his passing in 2012.  Colemon had a 135-fight amateur career and was a four-time national amateur champion in the junior division.  He turned professional when he was 18 years old and has eight knockouts in his first 11 professional fights.  Colemon, who is trained by Marlon Thomas, will face by far the toughest test of his career in Jackson, a fellow undefeated yet untested prospect. 


 
“I am physically and mentally prepared more than I ever have been,” Colemon said.  “I know Jackson is undefeated and tough, so I know I’m in for a big test.  This is the next step in my career, and I feel that I will be not only the next great champion that has fought onShoBox, but the next great fighter out of Detroit.  I am ready to show the world my talents.  February 14 will put my name in the minds of boxing fans all over the world.”


 
The 31-year-old Jackson got a late start as a professional yet has been active, including three fights in 2019 and three in 2018.  He has 12 KOs in 15 fights, including knockouts in seven of his last eight bouts.  The Greensboro native will fight outside of North Carolina for the first time in his career when he takes on the undefeated Colemon. 


 
“I know Colemon is tough, and he had a long amateur career,” Jackson said.  “He will come to fight, but I prepare for anything.  That is what this sport is all about.  I am looking forward to showcasing my talent to the world.”


 
Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan 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 81 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. 
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

VLADIMIR SHISHKIN REGISTERS UNANIMOUS DECISION VICTORY ON 250th EDITION OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment
KO Artist Shohjahon Ergashev Records First-Round Knockout; Ja’Rico O’Quinn Impressive In Eight-Round Unanimous Decision Against Oscar Vasquez

 

Catch The Replay Monday, January 20 At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®


 
Click HERE for Photos; Credit Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME


 
SLOAN, Iowa – January 17, 2020 – Three promising and undefeated Detroit prospects shined during ShoBox: The New Generation’s 250th episode Friday night with Russia native Vladimir Shishkin leading the way with a solid unanimous decision win in the main event Friday night from WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.


 
With Tyson Fury’s trainer Sugarhill Steward from the famed Kronk Gym in Detroit working his corner, the 28-year-old fast-rising Shishkin (10-0, 6 KOs) won for the second consecutive time on ShoBox in a battle of unbeaten fighters as he dominated Ulises Sierra (15-1-2, 9 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. The 10-round super middleweight bout was scored in favor of Shishkin 100-90 and 99-91 twice.


 
Also posting victories were Steward’s students Shohjahon Ergashev, who registered a first-round knockout, and Detroit native Ja’Rico O’Quinn who won unanimously in a dominating eight-round bantamweight bout.


 
“Ergashev was spectacular but you almost feel like you wish you got to see more,” said Hall of Famer and ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood. “He’s the furthest advanced of the three and Ja’Rico O’Quinn sold himself tonight and was very aggressive, maybe too aggressive.”


 
Shishkin said afterwards that he fought with an injured left bicep and left elbow. “It was a much tougher fight than I thought it would be because I fought with one hand for most of the fight,” he said. “I was surprised he could take my punches, but I couldn’t move his hand out of the way with the left to hit him with the right. That affected me a lot because I use that a lot.”


 
He added: “I want Canelo (Alvarez). I want (David) Benavidez. I want the champions next. I am ready for the next level. With Sugarhill in my corner I am ready for anyone. Even with one hand.”


 
Steward is the nephew of the legendary trainer Emanuel Steward. “I thought all the Detroit guys did great,” Sugarhill Steward said. “They all got good experience on television. That’s a factor that some fighters don’t take in to consideration. When they get on television, they don’t know how to handle it. You have to be used to being on a stage like this and I’m happy with the way they all performed. All the guys from Detroit stepped up on television to further their careers. I’m very happy all-around.”


 
Sierra didn’t have an answer for Shishkin’s body shots as Shishkin connected on 65 body shots to 28 for Sierra. “He was sharp and he was strong,” said Sierra, who became the 189th boxer to lose his undefeated record on ShoBox in the 19 years of the series. “But I was also hurt with a sprained hand a month before this fight and haven’t hit the bags since then.”


 
In the co-featured bout, hard-hitting super lightweight Shohjahon Ergashev (18-0, 16 KOs) showed off his powerful left hand as the southpaw from Uzbekistan also trained by Steward knocked out Adrian Estrella (29-5, 24 KOs). The fight ended at just 92 seconds into the first round with a devastating body shot as Estrella was unable to survive the entire 10-count.


 
“I just saw the window to the body, so I threw the shot,” said Ergashev, who is ranked in the top-15 in three of the four major sanctioning bodies. “I wasn’t planning to knock him out in the first round. I wanted to get some rounds in. The guy is durable and experienced, so I thought I would, but when I saw that opening, I had to take it.


 
“I knew it was over the second it landed though. I knew he would not get up from that. No one could. That was a message to the super lightweight division. It’s Shoh Time! No matter where I fight, it is always Shoh Time.”


 
After Ergashev landed the knockout blow, Estrella of Fort Worth, Texas, went down writhing in pain from the left uppercut to the liver and unable to continue.


 
“I started moving and tried using my jab, but he was very quick with that punch,” Estrella said. “He just punched me very hard in the stomach and I was paralyzed on the canvas. I tried to stand up, but I couldn’t hear the referee counting. I couldn’t hear anything, and I couldn’t move. It was a hell of a shot.”


 
In the telecast opener, former No. 1-ranked U.S. amateur at bantamweight, Ja’Rico O’Quinn (14-0-1, 8 KOs) was impressive in his ShoBox debut as he outclassed a game Oscar Vasquez (15-3-1, 3 KOs) in a unanimous decision 79-73 three times at 118 pounds. 


 
The WBO No. 10-ranked junior bantamweight O’Quinn worked the body effectively throughout the eight-round fight connecting on 83 body shots to 40 for Vasquez of Reno, Nev. O’Quinn outworked Vasquez with an average of 88 punches per round to Vasquez’s 59.2.


 
“I give this performance a six, to be honest,” said O’Quinn. “I want to fight bigger and taller people, that’s what I’m used to. I’m not taking anything away from Oscar. No matter what I will always come out on top. Even when things can get ugly, I know how to win beautiful.”


 
Farhood called the bout a “highly competitive, one-sided fight.”


 
Added O’Quinn: “I went into this fight knowing Oscar Vasquez was a tough guy. I knew he would be coming forward to make it ugly, so my game plan was to box him but if I had to, stand there and trade with him. I knew I’d be stronger than him and be able to take his punch. It was hard to land my shots with him leaning on me. I couldn’t turn him like I wanted and cut off angles, but we came, we conquered and I got the win.”


 
O’Quinn, who overcame a slow start losing the first round, ended round seven emphatically with a series of punches that rattled Vasquez, who stayed on his feet and didn’t give up. “I think I did amazing,” said Vasquez, a 32-year-old crane operator. “It was a very close fight. I thought I was winning the first five rounds. He hurt me once in the seventh round and that took a lot out of me. He was a better fighter tonight.”


 
Friday’s fights were promoted by Salita Promotions. The full telecast will replay on Monday, January 20 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

 

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


 
# # #

 

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 81 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.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS MAKES HISTORY WITH THIRD DIVISION TITLE IN RECORD TIME WITH WIN OVER IVANA HABAZIN FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM OCEAN CASINO RESORT IN ATLANTIC CITY

Leave a comment

Welterweight Sensation Jaron Ennis Continues Knockout Streak; Elin Cederroos Edges Alicia Napoleon Espinosa In Super Middleweight World Championship Unification

 Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT On

SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 Click HERE For Photos from Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

ATLANTIC CITY – January 11, 2020 – Claressa Shields made history yet again by claiming the WBC and WBO 154-pound world championships with a dominating unanimous decision over Ivana Habazin Friday on SHOWTIME from Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City. 

Shields became the fastest fighter in history, male or female, to win world titles in three different weight divisions, surpassing the record of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Kosei Tanaka, who both accomplished the feat in 12 fights. The near-shutout was scored 99-89, 100-90, 100-89. 

Shields (10-0, 2 KOs) overpowered Habazin from the opening bell, utilizing a strong jab and a steady diet of body shots that left the Croatian mostly in defensive mode throughout the 10-round fight.  In the sixth round, a series of body shots forced Habazin to take a knee in the first knockdown of her career.  It was also the first knockdown for the two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and undisputed middleweight world champion in her professional career.  

Following the knockdown, Habazin continued forward but did so without throwing many punches.  Habazin (20-4, 7 KOs) threw just 285 compared to 516 for Shields, who also connected on 38 percent of her power shots compared to just 18 percent for Habazin. 

In the co-featured bout, welterweight sensation Jaron Ennis scored his 15th consecutive knockout with a dominating fourth round TKO over the durable Bakhtiyar Eyubov. 

The switch-hitting Philadelphia native came out with a blistering pace in the first, switching from southpaw in the opening minute while displaying his signature power and hand speed.  An onslaught of perfectly timed punches floored the normally durable Eyubov for the first time in his career midway through the opening round.  Eyubov (14-1-2, 12 KOs) got up but was dropped against just 20 seconds later as the torrid pace continued.  Eyubov survived the round and Ennis (25-0, 23 KOs) took his foot off the gas a bit in the second, but the unbeaten welterweight still landed at will against Eyubov, who continued to press forward. 

Prior to the fourth round, Commissioner Larry Hazzard warned Eyubov that he would stop the fight if he didn’t see improvement.  With Eyubov still pressing forward but eating dozens of punches, referee Earl Brown stepped in to stop the fight at :34 at the instructions of the Hazzard. 

Ennis now has 23 knockouts in 25 fights and 13 knockdowns over his last six fights.  Through four rounds the incredibly effective Ennis landed 47 percent of his power shots. 

“We knew he was coming to fight and bring pressure so we mixed it up,” Ennis said.  “He was a good fighter but he wasn’t really that strong.  I was getting hit a little too much but that’s how we did it to get the knockout. 

“We were just setting him up for power shots.  I just had to calm down, that’s all.  I was too hyped. Once I calmed down and got into my rhythm that was it. 

“He was taking a lot of punishment.  He definitely was a great fighter though.  I appreciate him taking the fight because a lot of guys don’t want to fight me.”

With another dominating performance, Ennis now sets his sights on the upper echelon of one of boxing’s deepest and most exciting divisions.

“We have been wanting all the guys,” Ennis said.  “They keep running.  They can’t run no more.  I’m right here.” 

In the opening bout of the telecast, IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Elin Cederroos edged WBA champion Alicia Napoleon Espinosa to unify the super middleweight division in an all-action slugfest scored 95-94 three times. 

Cederroos (7-0, 4 KOs) was more active from the opening bell, throwing 747 total punches over 10 rounds compared to 432 for the slightly more effective Napoleon Espinosa (12-2, 7 KOs).  But the difference in the close scorecards was a second round knockdown that Cederroos registered with a perfectly timed check left hook in the closing moments of the second.  It was the first knockdown of Napoleon Espinosa’s career and ultimately the deciding factor in the scorecards. 

“I’m so happy.  I showed that I can box and take a war,” Cederroos said.  “But when I relaxed the punches just came.  It feels so wonderful. Alicia was a great opponent.” 

Napoleon Espinosa was game and hurt the Swedish Cederroos multiple times but she was largely unable to get inside against her taller opponent who consistently landed the bigger punches from a distance. 

“I didn’t think I lost.  I thought that it was fairly close but I thought I was ahead,” Napoleon Espinosa said.  “It is what it is, but I don’t think that I lost this fight. 

“I know she was strong, but I wanted a tough fight.  I know that Elin is an athlete.  I don’t feel that I lost.  I feel like it was close.”

Napoleon Espinosa had been hoping that a win would position her for a 2020 fight with Claressa Shields at middleweight with all four of Shields’ 160-pound titles on the line.  

“Congrats on the fight with Shields because that was what I was looking forward to,” Napoleon Espinosa said.

The event was promoted by Salita Promotions in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS. 

Friday’s SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader will replay on Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME.

An industry leading production team and announce crew delivered all the sights, sounds and drama from Atlantic City. Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer hosted the telecast, versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo called the action ringside alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi. Three Hall of Famers rounded out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was David Dinkins, Jr., the Producer was Ray Smaltz and the Director was Bob Dunphy.

#          #          #

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS SHARES NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION & PREVIEWS UPCOMING TITLE SHOWDOWN AGAINST IVANA HABAZIN FRIDAY, JANUARY 10

Leave a comment

Undisputed Middleweight Champion Shields Battles Habazin for Vacant WBC & WBO 154-Pound Titles Live on SHOWTIME from

Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J.

MIAMI (January 2, 2020) – As the calendar flips to a new decade, undisputed middleweight champion Claressa Shields shared her New Year’s resolution ahead of her upcoming showdown against former champion Ivana Habazin for the vacant WBC and WBO 154-pound titles taking place Friday, January 10 live on SHOWTIME from the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J.

“I really have just one main resolution for the new year – no compromising,” said Shields. “That goes for both my personal and professional life. I also want to get closer to God and stay undefeated. I was going to say stop cursing also, but that’s just not happening.”

Shields vs. Habazin will open up the 2020 year of big boxing events, with Shields seeking to become the fastest fighter in boxing history, male or female, to become a three-division world champion.

“I’m very happy to kick off 2020,” said Shields. “Gervonta Davis ended 2019 on SHOWTIME and then the GWOAT brings in the New Year for SHOWTIME in 2020. It’s going to be a great start to the year. I’m coming in with a bang and gunning for the knockout.

“I’m super excited to have Jaron Ennis on the undercard, too. To me, he’s the next Roy Jones Jr. of boxing. He’s slick, he has power, he can box and he’s an all-around dedicated athlete. I look forward to sharing the card with him as a future world champion.”

Shields has trained in Miami with her head coach John David Jackson ahead of her 154-pound debut and has been able to maintain her focus and worked to stay sharp despite the fight’s two postponements.

“I made 154 pounds back in October before the cancellation,” said Shields. “After our fight was cancelled, I stayed active and only put on about 10 pounds. I’ve been down in Florida for the last six or seven weeks. It’s been hard work. I’ve pushed myself and I’m not taking Habazin lightly. I want the knockout because Ivana talks too much. I’m staying focused on being focused, and not letting anyone throw me off by talking nonsense.

“I don’t eat meat anymore. I haven’t in over three months, so my body is more toned now. I actually have a six-pack already with just a little more weight to lose. I think people are going to be surprised at the 154-pound version of me. I’m going to be very strong and very fast because I’ve basically had five months to prepare and to get ready for her specifically.”

Despite training camp taking her through the many holiday events that are gluttonously celebrated by the masses, Shields has stayed disciplined ahead of her opportunity to make more history.

“Balancing around the holidays is something I’ve been doing for years,” said Shields. “I saved a lot of money by not going home for Christmas, that’s for sure. But I still spoke with all my family and connected with everyone. I have a very strict diet in camp and I actually trained on Christmas. I consider my diet more of a life plan in general, and I have my days where I’ll splurge, but I stay disciplined.”

Ahead of next week’s event in Atlantic City, Shields plans to unleash and make another statement on her way to another championship-winning performance.

“No matter what she says, this beat down was coming in October,” said Shields. “All I’m doing is bringing it to Atlantic City. I’m going to knock her out. I’m going to put down a whole different beat down on her because of the level of disrespect she has shown me. I’m not going to let her be disrespectful towards me and I’m going to knock her out to shut her up.”

The event is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS. 

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. YURIORKIS GAMBOA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

Leave a comment
Two-Time Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis Battles Former Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for Vacant WBA Lightweight Title this Saturday, December 28 Live on SHOWTIME from

State Farm Arena in Atlanta


 
Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME


 
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/

Mayweather Promotions


 
ATLANTA (December 26, 2019) – Boxing’s hottest attraction, Gervonta “Tank” Davis, and former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, went face to face Thursday at the final press conference two days before they battle for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title this Saturday, December 28 live on SHOWTIME from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.


 
The press conference also featured WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal and two-division champion Badou Jack, who will square off in the co-main event, and former champion Jose Uzcategui and Lionell Thompson, who battle in the opener of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. 


 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com. Good tickets are still available. All tickets start at $54 and $104.


 
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel:


 
GERVONTA DAVIS


 
“Training camp has been great. I’ve been training with my brothers and sister on the undercard. Saturday night we’re going to make history again. There hasn’t been a title fight in over 20 years and I’m excited to be in this position to open doors for others and myself.


 
“This is my first time fighting in Atlanta. I’ve been coming here for over four or five years and I’ve been wanting to fight here. Atlanta always shows me love and I always thought that me fighting here would be big. I knew I had a big fan base here.


 
“Saturday night we’re going to have a big fight. Thank you to Gamboa for taking the chance. Saturday night it’s going to be an action-packed fight and we’ll see who’s got what it takes.


 
“I’m pretty sure Gamboa watched my last fight. He’s just saying he didn’t to be cocky. I know he at least watched it heading into this fight. We’ll see Saturday night. He’s been a little cocky, so I have to make him pay.


 
“I can’t say whether I’ll get the knockout, but I’ve trained very hard and I’ve been focused on the main goal, which is to get the win. I know that Gamboa is a tough opponent and he’ll lay it all on the line. If it goes 12 rounds, it doesn’t matter to me. I’m looking to make this a great fight for me and also for the fans.


 
“I believe that I haven’t gone past nine rounds and I’m undefeated, so I think that’s a good thing for me. I’ve been doing this for so many years that I believe Gamboa can’t bring anything to the ring that I haven’t seen.


 
“I know that I have to come in there focused, strong and fast. Let’s see what it all comes out to. I’m ready and hopefully he’s ready to give the fans what they want to see.


 
“Saturday night everyone should be looking for a great fight, not just from Gamboa and me, but the whole undercard. On Saturday night the fight fans win. We’re both bringing our all and we’ll see what Saturday night brings for each of us.”


 
YURIORKIS GAMBOA


 
“My job isn’t to pay attention to any trash talk. My only focus is to go in there at 150% and give it my all. I don’t care about any of the chatter outside of the ring.


 
“The confidence that I have comes from my focus and the hard work that I’ve put into this camp. I know what I have to do December 28. Everything from camp has unfolded how I wanted to leading into fight night.


 
“I’m very appreciative to have this opportunity to fight for the world title on Saturday night. I have to make the best of this position that I’m in. I’m still at the level where I know that I can compete and beat the best fighters in the sport.


 
“My focus and discipline has allowed me to get to the position that I’m in today. I’ve always relied upon that heavily and it hasn’t failed me yet.


 
“Gervonta knocking his opponents out and not going past the ninth round is great for him, but I don’t think it has anything to do with my resume. I’ve faced stronger fighters than Gervonta and I’ve been able to beat them. He’s not going to bring anything I haven’t seen.


 
“We’re thrilled that the fight landed in Atlanta and we can tell you that the fans are going to be very happy with the fight they see Saturday. I came here to win and I’m definitely ready to go all 12 rounds if I have to.


 
“I’ve had a great training camp and I know what I’m able to give on Saturday. I’m giving my all and then some. Atlanta, be ready. We’re going to give you a war.”


 
JEAN PASCAL


 
“This is my first time in the city of Atlanta and I might have to move here after my victory on Saturday night.


 
“I’m excited to be able to display my talents on SHOWTIME on Saturday night. I’m at the top of my game and my whole team has helped me get to here.


 
“Badou Jack is a solid fighter with great defense and good attack. I’ve had a great camp in Puerto Rico. I’ve been away from my family for three months and I’m war ready. Make sure you tune in.


 
“Badou and I sparred, but it was a long time ago back in 2014. Sparring is sparring. I was getting ready for Sergey Kovalev. It was a good session, but at the time he was at 168-pounds. I don’t rely on that sparring because it was so long ago.


 
“I know that Badou has had a long layoff and he’s fresh and will be even hungrier. I’m always hungry and that will make it a great fight on Saturday night.


 
“I’ve been fighting at the highest level for the last 11 years. That means something. I’m a special fighter. I have things that nobody can teach, which is a chin and a heart.”


 
BADOU JACK


 
“I had a great training camp, which everyone says, but I really do feel great. I’m 36 and I feel like I’m 26 again. I can’t wait for Saturday night to hear ‘and the new’.


 
“I guess you have to wait until Saturday night for me to prove that I still have it. I was flat against Marcus Browne, regardless of the cut, but I feel much better this time than I did heading into that fight.


 
“All of the close decisions I’ve had in the past, everyone who watched those fights knows that those were wins. Saturday night I’m going to win and there will be no doubt.


 
“Gervonta was on my undercard and now I’m on his and I’m very proud of him. He’s already a superstar.


 
“I take care of myself. I don’t do anything outside the ring to jeopardize my career. I have a great nutritionist who gives me all organic foods. You can talk to my strength and conditioning coach as far as how I’m looking, but I feel amazing.


 
“I’m going to take everything one fight at a time. I think Pascal can bring the best out of me on Saturday night. Styles make fights and I think our styles will mesh.


 
“Pascal and I both come to fight. Marcus Browne is a southpaw and he’s more evasive. So it’s hard to compare. Pascal is a tough guy and I expect nothing less than a tough fight.”


 
JOSE UZCATEGUI


 
“I’m grateful to be back in this position and I promise the crowd won’t be disappointed. I’m going to be around for a long time and I’m going to get my world title back.


 
“I don’t talk much, but since he says I only have power, we’ll see on Saturday. Don’t talk today and then run around the ring.


 
“After I knock out Lionell Thompson, we’ll see what Caleb Plant has to say after that. I hope he will stand and fight. The only reason Plant is champion is because I messed up.


 
“When I’m at my best, I’m the best super middleweight on the planet. Everyone will see on Saturday.”


 
LIONELL THOMPSON


 
“I want to thank Uzcategui and his team for taking the fight. This is my first time in the super middleweight division and I plan on being victorious.


 
“To everybody that has helped me and supported me, I promise I won’t let you guys down. I’m planning on giving my best performance on Saturday night.


 
“I’ve been in there with bigger punchers at light heavyweight and the only time I was stopped was early in my career. I’ve beaten good guys and undefeated prospects that could punch.


 
“I believe that moving down in weight, and doing it right with a nutritionist, will be better for me. Anyone can hurt you. Everyone says that he can punch, but anyone who hits you right can hurt you.


 
“I’m focused on being perfect. I don’t plan on making any mistakes. I know what I can do. Anyone who has shared the ring with me will say I’m one of the most skillful fighters out there. Floyd Mayweather even said it.


 
“I know Uzcategui is tough, but I’m not worried because I’m bringing my best. I believe I’ll be victorious. I respect him and he’s definitely a force to be reckoned with, but I just believe in myself.”


 
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions


 
“Saturday night, it’s going to be lit. I’m very excited about this card. I can recall when we first talked about bringing this fight to Atlanta, there was only one name that was synonymous with tapping into a market that hasn’t had a big fight in 20 years. When it comes to excitement, the name Gervonta Davis goes hand in hand.


 
“We knew that this entire community would be involved. We know that this would be the most talked about event and create a buzz that we haven’t seen in many years.


 
“We have an outstanding undercard, including a great co-main event with Jean Pascal and Badou Jack, which I guarantee will be a very entertaining match. These two are going to lay it all on the line.


 
“From top to bottom this is a very entertaining card. Looking at the main event, when you look at Gamboa, you know what he brings to the table. We’re not buying anything about him being an older fighter. He has a phenomenal pedigree and he has seen everything in that ring. This is a very dangerous fight for Gervonta and that’s what we want. We want nothing but the best for Gervonta.


 
“I think that Gamboa is going to bring out the best in “Tank” on Saturday night. We’re going to give you an entertaining card from top to bottom, with a main event that’s going to end in a knockout.”


 
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.


 
“It’s a big weekend for SHOWTIME as we have eight big boxing shows over the next 10 weeks, featuring some of the biggest names in the sport and some of boxing’s top young prospects. We couldn’t kick it off with a better fight card this Saturday night.


 
“It’s time to quit calling Gervonta a young star or a rising star, because what he has demonstrated this year is that he’s a bonafide star. That is without question when you go into three cities and bring out all the people that he has. 


 
“At the end of the day, none of that matters on Saturday night. That’s what we love about this sport. You have labels, critics and big names, but none of it matters when the bell rings. Each one of these six fighters up here fights like an underdog, because they’ve all been underdogs before.


 
“Gervonta and Gamboa fight like they’re hungry and like they’re angry. They fight like there’s one plate in the middle of the ring. In the co-main event, with Badou Jack and Jean Pascal, I’ll put their resumes against any fighter in the sport. They’ve fought tough fight after tough fight and they’re still fighting on this stage. Uzcategui is one of the hardest punchers in the sport, and Lionell Thompson is looking for his shot. With all of this together, we’re in for an entertaining night.”


 
#          #          #


 
ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA

Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank’’ Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

 

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports,
 www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
 
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

THREE UNDEFEATED PROSPECTS IN TOUGH TESTS HIGHLIGHT 250TH EDITION OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 17

Leave a comment
Vladimir Shishkin, Shohjahon Ergashev And Ja’Rico O’Quinn in Tripleheader Live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) From WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa

 

NEW YORK – December 19, 2019 – Three talented, undefeated prospects will put their unblemished records on the line in the 250thedition of ShoBox: The New Generation, the prospect-oriented series that has featured 81 future world champions, Friday, January 17 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from WinnaVegas Casino Resort in Sloan, Iowa.


 
In the 10-round main event, Vladimir Shishkin (9-0, 6 KOs), the fast-rising super middleweight prospect currently ranked as the WBC No. 12 contender, will return for his second consecutive test on ShoBox against the unbeaten Ulises Sierra (15-0-2, 9 KOs).


 
Shohjahon Ergashev (17-0, 15 KOs), ranked No. 6 by both the WBA and IBF at 140 pounds, will face Adrian Estrella (29-4, 24 KOs) in the 10-round super lightweight co-featured bout of the first ShoBox telecast of 2020. In the opener, Detroit native Ja’Rico O’Quinn (13-0-1, 8 KOs) faces Nevada’s Oscar Vasquez (15-2-1, 3 KOs) in an eight-round super flyweight contest.

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, start at $20 and are on sale now at www.WinnaVegas.com.

 

“Vladimir Shishkin was a stellar amateur with over 300 bouts. We believe he is destined to become a world champion,” said Gordon Hall, who has been the Executive Producer and steward of ShoBox: The New Generation for all 19 years and 250 editions of the cornerstone boxing series. “Shohjahon Ergashev was on prospects to watch lists in 2018 and has lived up to lofty expectations. His aggressive style and punching power make him a fighter who boxing fans want to see. 2020 will be a big year for both fighters. This series was built on giving young, talented fighters national television exposure and we are excited to get a first look at Ja’Rico O’Quinn, a U.S. amateur standout who is an all-action fighter with high expectations.”


 
“On January 17, boxing fans are going to see some of the best prospects in boxing from big to small,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “The card features young, hungry fighters in the super flyweight, junior middleweight and super middleweight divisions. Vladimir Shishkin, Shohjahon Ergashev and Ja’Rico O’Quinn are all undefeated, world-rated fighters on their way to national recognition and world titles. First, they have to pass the biggest tests of their careers.”

 

The 28-year-old Shishkin shined in his United States and ShoBox: The New Generation debut in August, registering an eighth-round technical knockout against then once-beaten DeAndre Ware. Standing at 6-foot-1, Shishkin was a standout amateur in Russia where he compiled 301 wins in 330 fights before turning professional in 2016. He has won his last four contests – all scheduled 10 or 12 round fights – via knockout, including a 10th round TKO of former world title challenger Nadjib Mohammedi prior to his American debut in October 2018. Currently training in Detroit under Javan “Sugar” Hill, Steward at the new Kronk Gym, Shishkin is looking to continue his ascent up the rankings in the super middleweight division with a second consecutive statement win on ShoBox.


 
“Training with Sugar Hill at Kronk Gym is going really well, and I can guarantee that I will be ready and I will put my newly learned skills to use,” Shishkin said. “I hope for another emphatic victory that impresses the American boxing fans. I’m looking forward to putting on a great fight and letting the champions at 168 know that this is my year.”

 

The 30-year-old Sierra, from San Diego, Calif., is riding an eight-bout winning streak including a unanimous 10-round decision over Fidel Hernandez for the vacant WBC Silver Super Middleweight Championship in April. The son of former San Diego Padres pitcher Ulises “Candy” Sierra, he has sparred with future Hall of Famers Andre Ward and Canelo Alvarez and former world champion Peter Quillin. Prior to Sierra’s career-best win in April, he won four straight contests in Mexico, including three by knockout.


 
“I’m happy for the opportunity to face a good opponent and I’ll use him as a steppingstone to get where I want to get,” said Sierra. “I still have a month of preparation to get into the best shape of my life. I know Shishkin is undefeated and has a Russian amateur pedigree. It’ll be the hardest fight of my career, but I will do anything and everything to come out victorious.”


 
Hard-hitting super lightweight Shohjahon Ergashev (17-0, 15 KOs), of Uzbekistan, is ranked in the top-15 in three of the four major sanctioning bodies. The 28-year-old is coming off an impressive fourth-round knockout of veteran Abdiel Ramirez this past August onShoBox. In his previous appearances on the prospect developmental series, the former member of the Uzbek national team scored a third-round knockout against then top-10 rated Sonny Fredrickson, and a 10-round unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Mykal Fox. The powerful southpaw currently trains alongside stablemate Shishkin in Detroit.


 
“I am adding new dimensions to my game and plan on making a big statement in the first ShoBox of the year,” said Ergashev. “2020 is going to be my year and I am going to set the tone in my fight with Estrella.”


 
Estrella, who hails from Monterrey, Mexico, turned professional in 2010 and won 22 consecutive fights before he suffered his first setback in 2015. With just seven of his 33 pro fights going the full distance, Estrella is an all-action fighter typical of his Mexican roots. He earned a career-best win, a closely-contested split decision over Oscar Duarte, in his U.S. debut in February. Estrella will face his fourth undefeated prospect in his last five fights as he looks to get his career back on track with a win over the highly-regarded Ergashev.


 
“This is an opportunity I’m going to take full advantage of,” said Estrella. “I’ve been in camp for the last two months, so I’ll be in perfect shape to go in there and do my thing. I know Ergashev is a southpaw and a hard puncher with a big KO record, but I’ve been in this situation before. I have too much experience for him. Knowing that if I win this fight I could get a world title shot is all the motivation I need.”

 

The 24-year-old O’Quinn is rated No. 10 in the world by the WBO. Ranked as the No.1 amateur bantamweight in the country compiling a record of 130-18 before turning professional in 2015, O’Quinn boasts blazing-fast hands and an ability to throw effortless combinations. A fan favorite in his hometown of Detroit, he was last seen winning a unanimous decision over James Smith of Flint, Mich., in October.


 
“The time has finally come,” said O’Quinn. “It’s my time to show the world who the king is on live TV. For those that don’t know, January 17, I’m going to show the world greatness in is purest form. They are going to see charisma, skills and explosiveness. I know I’m fighting a tough competitor. He’s not coming to lay down. I’m coming prepared for war. It’s going to be a great night for boxing in the super flyweight division. I’m putting all the champions on notice.”

 

Vasquez, from Reno, Nev., is a former streaking prospect in the super flyweight division. After losing his third professional fight, the 5-foot Vasquez rattled off thirteen consecutive wins between 2012 and 2017 and was well on his way to making a name for himself in the division before a unanimous decision loss to once-beaten Ricardo Sandoval in May 2018 halted his momentum. After a year-and-a-half layoff, Vasquez returned by fighting Gilberto Mendoza to a majority draw in October. At 32 years old, the hungry Vasquez finds himself in a do-or-die fight against O’Quinn.


 
“Training in Reno is going amazing,” said Vasquez. “It’s such a tremendous opportunity for my life. I’m trying to get to a high ranking and it’s a dream come true. I know O’Quinn is undefeated. He’s a boxer who likes to grab a lot. He doesn’t like pressure. I’m hoping I will tire him out. I think he’ll eventually give in as the fight goes on if I put on a lot of pressure. In the later rounds, he won’t even want to come out of his corner.”


 
Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan 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.
boxing, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime

GERVONTA DAVIS & YURIORKIS GAMBOA LOOK TO REIGNITE LEGACY OF ATLANTA BOXING HISTORY STARTED BY ALL-TIME GREATS MUHAMMAD ALI & EVANDER HOLYFIELD

Leave a comment
Davis And Gamboa Face Off For WBA Lightweight World Championship In Atlanta’s First World Title Fight In More Than 20 Years Next Saturday, December 28 Live On SHOWTIME® From State Farm Arena
 
ATLANTA – December 18, 2019 – When Gervonta Davis and Yuriorkis Gamboaclash for the vacant WBA Lightweight World Championship on December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta, they’ll be making history in a long-underserved boxing hotbed that has hosted monumental fights featuring Hall of Famers Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield.
 
“Just to be mentioned with those Hall of Famers is amazing,” said Davis. “I’m lost for words.  It’s not only big for me, it’s big for boxing in the city and all the other fighters that have the opportunity to fight on the card.”
 
The Davis vs. Gamboa SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast features two world title bouts and will be the first world championship event in Atlanta in more than 20 years. Jean Pascal will defend his WBA Light Heavyweight World Championship against former two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-feature of the Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
Prior to December 28, the last world title fight in Atlanta was unified heavyweight world champion Evander Holyfield’s IBF and WBA defenses against Vaughn Bean on September 19, 1998. SHOWTIME televised that bout live from the since-demolished Georgia Dome where 41,357 fans in attendance saw the Atlanta resident floor Bean in the 10th round en route to a unanimous decision victory.
 
Despite the strong turnout and festive atmosphere for Holyfield vs. Bean, the Hall of Famer Holyfield fought just four times in Atlanta in his 57 professional bouts spanning nearly three decades. The city did host Holyfield’s first title fight, a bout that is widely considered the best cruiserweight fight in history and one of the last great 15 round fights. On July 12, 1986, Holyfield challenged WBA Cruiserweight Champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi in a back-and-forth bout that Holyfield won by split decision to capture his first world title.
 
While Holyfield vs. Qawi is considered the best fight in Atlanta boxing history, the most significant and biggest event in the city was Muhammad Ali’s comeback fight in 1970. Ali had been stripped of his heavyweight title and exiled from boxing after being controversially convicted of draft evasion in 1967. While his case was still under appeal in the U.S. Supreme Court, Ali received a license to fight in Georgia for his first bout in more than three-and-a-half years. Ali stopped Jerry Quarry in the third round on October 26, 1970 at City Auditorium in an event that would mark his triumphant return. Ali’s conviction was overturned the following year in June of 1971, just three months after the “Fight of the Century” with Joe Frazier.  
 
While Georgia has been home to a number of recent world champions, none have fought in Atlanta as titlists. The late two-division world champion Vernon Forrest was born in nearby Augusta and lived in Atlanta, however he never fought as a champion in the state’s capital. Similarly, former two-division champion Paul Williams, also of Augusta, fought just once in Atlanta in 2001 before he became champion.
 
Davis, who is on-track to sell out his third consecutive venue of the year in three different cities, is hoping to make big time boxing in Atlanta a permanent fixture.
 
“The spotlight will be on Atlanta,” said Davis. “They haven’t had a big fight there in many years.  So it’s a dream to bring big time boxing back just like I did in Baltimore. Atlanta welcomed me with open arms for so many years.  I always knew I had a fan base and I always wanted to fight here.  Now is the perfect time in my career for it to happen.
  
“I’m a fighter, but I’m also a fan.  So I’m looking forward to it as much as everyone else.  I’ll give it my all, I know Gamboa will give it his all.  It’s going to be a great night on December 28.”
 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com. Good tickets are still available. All tickets start at $54 and $104.
ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
 
The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.
boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Two-Division World Champion Danny García Takes on Hard-Hitting Ivan Redkach in WBC Welterweight Title Eliminator Live on SHOWTIME® Saturday, January 25 in Premier Boxing Champions Event at Barclays Center in Brooklyn

Leave a comment

Former Super Welterweight Unified Champion Jarrett Hurd Returns to the Ring in Co-Feature

Undefeated Sensation Stephen Fulton Battles Arnold Khegai in Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Action Beginning at

9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Tickets on Sale Now!

BROOKLYN (December 16, 2019) – Two-division world champion Danny “Swift’’ García returns to the ring to take on hard-hitting slugger Ivan “El Terrible’’ Redkach in a 12-round WBC welterweight title eliminator Saturday, January 25 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

In the co-feature, former unified 154-pound champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd will return to battle all-action Francisco “Chia” Santana in a 10-round super welterweight contest, plus sensational super bantamweight Stephen “Cool Boy Steph’’ Fulton will face undefeatedArnold Khegai in a 12-round WBO Super Bantamweight title eliminator to open SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING action at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

García’s blend of power and sublime boxing skills has made him one of the most popular boxers of the last decade and secured him as a box-office fixture at Barclays Center, where he holds the record for the largest crowd for a boxing event. He set the benchmark when 16,533 attended his welterweight title unification match against Keith Thurman on March 4, 2017 in a bout that aired in primetime on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on CBS.  The fight against Redkach will be Garcia’s eighth appearance at Barclays Center.

“Barclays Center fan-favorite Danny García is back in Brooklyn as he continues his quest for the top spot in the welterweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Danny has been in the biggest fights at Barclays Center and on January 25 there are sure to be fireworks when hard-hitting Ivan Redkach looks for a career-defining win. Redkach has upset the odds before and there’s no doubt he’ll leave it all in the ring with this opportunity to move closer to a world title fight. Combined with a former unified champion known for action fights in Jarrett Hurd, plus a rising star in Stephen Fulton, this card is loaded with intrigue from top to bottom.”

“Danny García and Jarrett Hurd are two of the biggest stars in the sport because they have consistently taken on the toughest challenges and they are always in all-action, exciting fights,” said Stephen Espinoza, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “On January 25, both men are fighting to maintain their place at the top of two of boxing’s deepest divisions in important, must-win fights. Add in two undefeated, promising contenders in the opener and we have the recipe for an explosive night of fights on SHOWTIME.”  

“We’re thrilled to host our first boxing event of 2020 by welcoming Danny García back for his eighth fight at Barclays Center and have Jarrett Hurd return to the arena where he’s had some memorable victories,” said Keith Sheldon, EVP of Programming and Development for BSE Global. “Danny specifically has built an enthusiastic fan base in the borough, becoming one of the most popular fighters in our arena, and we can’t wait to see his supporters out in full force as he steps back into our ring against Ivan Redkach.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased atticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Fulton vs. Khegai bout is promoted in association with Salita Promotions.

García (35-2, 21 KOs) is the latest in a long line of great boxers from Philadelphia who have made their mark on the sport. His run through the super lightweight division and two-year reign as a unified champion is one of the most impressive in modern history as he defeated a string of champions, including Nate Campbell, Kendall Holt, Erik Morales, Amir Khan, Zab Judah and Lucas Matthysse.

After dominating the super lightweight division, the 31-year-old García moved up to welterweight where he won the vacant WBC title with a unanimous decision over Robert Guerrero in 2016. He lost a split decision to Thurman in a unification match in 2017 and dropped a narrow unanimous decision to Shawn Porter for the WBC title in 2018.  García and many pundits thought he won both those matches. In his last fight, García scored a spectacular knockout victory over Adrian Granados on April 20 to get back into position to regain the welterweight crown.

“I’m very excited to be headlining another SHOWTIME card and to go back to Barclays Center, my home away from home,” said García. “I can’t wait to step in the ring in Brooklyn and give fans the Danny García show. I watched a few of Redkach’s recent fights and he had a great knockout win over two-time champion Devon Alexander. So, I know he’s a tough fighter and competitor who I expect to bring the best out of me, and he’s someone who deserves this opportunity. But January 25 is tax season, so I’m going to have to tax him and pay him with a reality check.”

Redkach (23-4-1, 18 KOs) has his sights set on winning a welterweight title and will face the toughest challenge of his career when he steps in against Garcia. The 33-year-old Redkach, who was born in Shostka, Ukraine and now lives in Los Angeles, is accustomed to stern tests. He started boxing as an amateur in Ukraine where he had over 300 fights. When he turned professional he traveled to Mexico to train and develop the “Mexican Style’’ – a style that emphasis standing in the pocket and throwing hard shots to the body.

Things started out slowly for Redkach, but soon he began to hold his own in Mexico and prevailed, earning the nickname “El Terrible’’ from his training partners. Redkach won 14 of his first 18 professional fights by stoppage and has won three in a row, including most recently knocking out former world champion Devon Alexander in June.

“I’m very motivated to take a massive step in my career and get closer to becoming world champion against a strong and accomplished fighter like Danny García,” said Redkach. “I have been to a lot of Danny’s fights and now I get the chance to test myself against him. I am training very hard so that I am the best that I have ever been on January 25. I’m going to shock the boxing world just like I did against Devon Alexander. I’ve never been this hungry before and I’m confident I will win this fight.”

The former WBA and IBF champion at 154-pounds, Hurd (23-1, 16 KOs) returns to action for the first time since losing his belts via decision against Julian Williams in one of 2019’s best fights. The 29-year-old from Accokeek, Maryland captured his first title by stopping current WBC titlist Tony Harrison in 2017 and then added the WBA belt by defeating Erislandy Lara in 2018’s consensus Fight of the Year. Hurd earned his title opportunity by going on a run of knocking off unbeaten fighters including Frank Galarza and Oscar Molina, and also owns a successful title defense against Austin Trout at Barclays Center in 2017.

“Just because I fell back, doesn’t mean I fell off,” said Hurd. “I’m back and excited to fight at Barclays Center for the third time. I’m bringing the storm back on January and I’m going to make a statement everyone is going to see. You’re not going to want to miss this fight and the best Jarrett Hurd anyone’s seen.”

Santana (25-7-1, 12 KOs) has taken on the toughest challenges at 154 and 147 pounds and has made his name with an all-action action style throughout a long career as a contender. The 33-year-old will look to bounce back from a close decision loss to Abel Ramos in March, in a fight where Santana dropped Ramos in the second round. Prior to the setback against Ramos, the Santa Barbara, California native was coming off of a victory over Olympic gold medalist Felix Diaz in April 2018. Santana has faced former champions Jermell Charlo and Sadam Ali while also owning a six-round draw against Julian Williams in 2011.

“This is a great opportunity for me against a fighter like Jarrett Hurd,” said Santana. “When you get an opportunity like this, it’s hard to turn it down. My job is to rise to the occasion and have the best moment of my career on fight night. This is my Super Bowl. When I last fought at 154-pounds, I was basically self-trained. Now I have my coach Joseph Janik training me and I really think he’s the missing piece of the puzzle for me. I’m going to go in there and leave it all in the ring January 25.”

The 25-year-old Fulton (17-0, 8 KOs) has made a rapid rise through the super bantamweight ranks with superb boxing skills, befitting a slick fighter from Philadelphia. Lately Fulton has shown flashes of power that have caught his opponents off guard. In his last fight he stopped Isaac Avelar with a body shot to end their fight in the fifth round on August 24.

Fighting out of Odessa, Ukraine and training for this fight in Los Angeles, Khegai (16-0-1, 10 KOs) will make his third start in the U.S. on January 25, after a successful U.S. debut in in May 2018 when he defeated Adam Lopez on the prospect developmental series ShoBox: The New Generation. The 27-year-old has already been victorious twice in 2019, stopping Haidari Mchanjo in March and most recently winning a unanimous decision over Vladimir Tikhonov in August on ShoBox.

#          #          #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

WBA WORLD CHAMPION ALICIA NAPOLEON-ESPINOSA TO FACE IBF CHAMP ELIN CEDERROOS IN SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT UNIFICATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment
Women’s Superfight Added to Blockbuster Shields vs. Habazin Showdown on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® Live At 9 P.M. ET/6 P.M. PT from Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J.


 
NEW YORK – December 13, 2019 – A second women’s superfight has been added to the blockbuster Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin event on Friday, January 10, at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J., as WBA Super Middleweight Champion Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon-Espinosa will face undefeated IBF Champion Elin Cederroos in a 10-round unification live on SHOWTIME.


 
Napoleon (12-1, 7 KOs), of Lindenhurst, N.Y. and Cederroos (7-0, 4 KOs), of Vasteraas, Sweden, will meet in the opening bout of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in support of the long-awaited showdown between undisputed middleweight world champion Claressa Shields and former champion Ivana Habazin for the vacant WBC and WBO 154-pound world titles.


 
If Shields and Napoleon win their respective bouts on January 10, they are expected to face off for the undisputed middleweight world championship in 2020 with all four of Shields’ 160-pound titles on the line. 


 
The event is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS. The Napoleon-Espinosa vs Cederroos fight is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.


 
Napoleon became IBF Super Middleweight Champion with a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Femke Hermans in March 2018. The 33-year-old successfully defended her belt with another 10-round decision, this time over Scotland’s Hannah Rankin in August 2018. Napoleon was last seen making the second successful defense of her title by stopping Philadelphia’s Schemelle Baldwin in four impressive rounds in August 2019.


 
“I’m really excited to be unifying with IBF World Champion Elin Cederroos on SHOWTIME,” said Napoleon. “I’m extremely grateful to my promoter Lou DiBella, manager Brian Cohen, coaches Leon Taylor and Delen Parsley and my husband Roberto Espinosa for being the key ingredients to making this dream come true. I have an amazing team of men that stand strong by my side believing in me, preparing me and working hard to open doors for me to thrive. I’m blessed and prepared to win and put on a memorable performance for all the world to see that night. I’m in tremendous spirits and excited and ready for the night to come. Thank you to everyone, my team, family and fans, for making this opportunity materialize into a dream come true.”


 
The 34-year-old Cederroos claimed her IBF championship in just her sixth fight with a majority decision over Hermans in March of 2019. Fighting as the underdog in her opponent’s backyard, Cederroos was still able to impress the judges enough to pull off the impressive feat. In her last bout, Cederroos defeated Kenya’s Florence Muthoni in a non-title fight in November 2019 by dominant third-round KO.


 
“Alicia Napoleon is a great champion and she will be my toughest test, but I am ready,” said Cederroos. “It is an honor for me to make my U.S. debut on such a prestigious card and to do so in a world title unification battle. Alicia and I will put on a great show.”


 
“January 10 just got even more exciting with the addition of the matchup between two champions in the super middleweight division,” said Dmitriy Salita. “Those attending the fight at Ocean Casino Resort and everyone watching it live on SHOWTIME will see the best fighting the best in this very competitive ‘pick-em’ fight. A great start to boxing in 2020.” 


 
“Alicia Napoleon-Espinosa is a world champion who has the whole package. She’s athletic, fierce, physically strong and charismatic,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “On January 10, she gets her biggest opportunity to shine against Elin Cederroos, another world champion. This is the biggest stage to date for both Alicia and Elin and I expect them to bring everything they have. One of them will leave the ring as a unified world champion and an elite rival for Claressa Shields. Alicia is confident that her hand will be raised.” 


 
An industry leading production team and announce crew will deliver all the sights, sounds and drama from Atlantic City. Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will call the action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi at ringside. Three Hall of Famers round out the SHOWTIME announce team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION is David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. The telecast will be available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programing (SAP) with Alejandro Luna and former world champion Raul Marquez calling the action.
boxing, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

LIONELL THOMPSON TRAINING CAMP QUOTES & PHOTOS

Leave a comment
Lionell Thompson Makes Super Middleweight Debut Against Former Champion Jose Uzcategui Live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 from State Farm Arena in Atlanta


 
Click HERE for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/

Mayweather Promotions


 
LAS VEGAS (December 13, 2019) – Veteran contender Lionell “Lonnie B” Thompson previewed his upcoming showdown from his training camp as he prepares to take on former champion Jose Uzcategui live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta.


 
The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by boxing’s hottest attraction Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he moves up in weight to take on former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title.


 
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features Jean Pascal defending his WBA Light Heavyweight Title against two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-feature.


 
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com.


 
For Thompson, it will be his debut fight at 168 pounds, after fighting in the light heavyweight division throughout his career. Here is what Thompson had to say about his new division, his December 28 opponent and more, from training camp at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas:


 
LIONELL THOMPSON


 
“I’m not worried about his power. I’ve been in there with big punchers my whole career. I’m just ready to perform. I’m not worried about what he can do. I’m just concentrating on what I can do. Everyone can punch in the pros. One punch from anyone can hurt you. I’m fully focused on being excellent on December 28.


 
“We’re working hard. It’s a new weight class for me and that’s motivating me even more to be my best. This win is going to do wonders for my life and career. I believe I’ll be victorious in Atlanta. Don’t blink.


 
“All of my fights are important to me. Uzcategui is just another fighter. I don’t focus on what the perception of Uzcategui is. People say he’s a big puncher, but how do you know if he’s never hit you before? It’s someone’s job to pump their fighter up, but I’m only focused on what I can control.


 
“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m definitely thankful to the Mayweather Promotions team for putting me in this position. When I saw that Uzcategui was looking for an opponent, I told (Mayweather Promotions CEO) Leonard Ellerbe that I wanted to fight him and he made it happen.


 
“I know it’s rare for someone at my age to go down in weight. I feel fresh for my age though. I’m making weight the right way and the healthy way. I think with my training camp and the challenge that Uzcategui presents, it will bring out the best of me on December 28.”


 
#          #          #


 
ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA

Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank’’ Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

 

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports,
 www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
 
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing