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boxing, NBC, Premier Boxing Champions

DOMINIC “TROUBLE” BREAZEALE READY FOR PRIME TIME

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Birmingham, Alabama (September 25, 2015) –  World heavyweight championship boxing returns to prime-time television tomorrow evening on NBCafter over thirty-years.  Two bouts will be televised and featured in the co-main event of the live Premier Boxing Champions telecast is undefeated heavyweight prospect Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (15-0, 14 KO’s).

Breazeale, who will be opening up the live telecast is truly excited and thankful for the opportunity to show that he is ready to take on the top fighters of the heavyweight division.  Speaking at the press conference yesterday, Breazeale stated the following, “I want to thank Al Haymon and Premier Boxing Champions for this opportunity.  This is a dream come true for me and I intend to make the best of it.  I respect my opponent Fred Kassi, but this is business and I am coming out looking for the early knockout.”

“I need to make a statement and what better statement than to impose my will on this man and take him out in the early rounds in front of a nationally televised audience.  Deontay Wilder is fighting in the main-event after my bout so I am sure he will be watching.  Everyone is going to know who I am after this fight and know that I am coming for those world heavyweight titles.  I want to bring that fear and respect back to American heavyweight boxing,” said Breazeale.

The Premier Boxing Champions live telecast kicks off at 8:30 p.m. EST/5:30 p.m. PST on NBC.

“Here Comes Trouble“
 
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC DEONTAY WILDER VS. JOHANN DUHAUPAS FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions
 
Click HERE For Photos From Stephonia Mclinn
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL (September 24, 2015) – Heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and French heavyweight Johann “Reptile” Duhaupas faced-off for the first time Thursday before they enter the ring for Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC Saturday, September 26 from the Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.
Also in attendance at Thursday’s press conference was 2012 U.S. Olympian Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale who battles “Big” Fred Kassi in a 10-round heavyweight bout and undefeated prospect Charles “Missouri” Martinwho takes on Vicente “Bufalo” Sandez in 10-rounds of heavyweight action.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Bruno Event Team, start at only $25 and are on sale now. For tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com.
Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“I’m so happy to have the opportunity to defend my title in my home state. I just defended my title a few months ago and I can’t wait to do it again.
“I’m always looking to have my face on new networks and NBC is where a lot of the greats that came before me started. I can’t wait to display my talent on the network. I can’t wait for Saturday night.
“This is my happiest point. Words can’t even express the feeling that I have. I love what I do. I’m so passionate about boxing. If she was a woman, I’d put a ring on her.
“I’d like to thank Duhaupas for accepting the challenge. If anyone is looking past him, they’re a fool. He’s a tall guy, with a good record who’s never been knocked out. I have friends all over the world who have told me not to look past him.
“Any man that steps in the ring, definitely gets my full attention in respect. The heavyweights are the hard-hitters. When people get dressed up to see a heavyweight fight, there’s one thing they want to see – knockouts.
“Right now, there are two tall guys with power that are determined and dedicated. There is one challenger, trying to become the first heavyweight champion from his country. There is a difference between being here for the opportunity or for the money. Guys here for the opportunity, they come to fight.
“I’ve been training extremely hard for this opportunity. I have a great team behind me. I’ve worked so hard to get that belt and I have to work even harder to keep it. I have a target on my back now. I love that feeling of the world wanting what I have.
“I’m excited to be back home once more. I’m excited about all the fans that will be tuning in on NBC. It’s going to be a packed crowd full of my people.
“I’m taking this very seriously. This is one of the biggest fights of my career. I’m ready to defend this title. Now is the time.”
JOHANN DUHAUPAS
“I’m very thankful to be here and I’m so glad I accepted this fight. I’m someone who has worked very hard to be here.
“It’s because of all my hard work that I am here today, ready to fight for a world title. I’ve traveled a lot to train with the best boxers in the world. I am here for a reason, and that is to win the title on Saturday.
“It’s an immense pleasure to be boxing here in the United States. It’s been a magical country to me ever since I was little. When I walk around in the streets here, I feel like I’m in the movies.”
DOMINIC BREAZEALE
“It’s a pleasure to be here. It’s an honor to be on a stage like this with Deontay Wilder. I got some fireworks coming as well. I’m planning to stop the show early.”
CHARLES MARTIN
“I’m coming to bring fireworks on Saturday night and to let you know what a superstar looks like. Thank you for coming out and I’m looking forward to putting on a show.”
JAY DEAS, Wilder’s Trainer
“It’s great to be here. I’m looking around the room and I see a lot of phenomenal fighters who are going to be on this undercard. You don’t want to be late because you want to see all of these guys.
“This is going to be a great heavyweight title fight. Scouting a guy like Johann Duhaupas is not easy. He’s big and strong with a great record. He’s never been stopped. He’s tough, determined and ready for the challenge.
“If anyone is looking past Duhaupas, it’s not us. We’ve been focused on him since day one. This is the biggest challenge of Deontay Wilder’s career. Deontay knows what a challenge this is.
“We had 12 sparring partners come into camp, which is more than we’ve ever had. That’s because we know what a big event and challenge this is. We’re not looking past anybody.
“This is one of the best camps we’ve ever had. We’re in the gym day in and day out. That’s where the real work is done. You’ll see it all pay-off on Saturday night.”
LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment
“It’s amazing to see how much excitement there is here for Deontay. He is the finest young athlete that we have in the sport. On Saturday night you’ll be able to see him in action for the third time this year, which is an amazing thing.
“Deontay fighting this often proves that he is dedicated to his craft and to improving. He’s already one of the best heavyweights in the world today and he’s still a work in progress.
“To put on gloves for the first time at 21 and to win a Bronze a couple of years later and win a world title while still in his twenties, it’s tremendous. What he can do between now and 39, will be truly special.
“Having Deontay fighting on free television is a big deal. NBC primetime is a big deal. The heavyweight division has suffered some decline. I’ve watched Muhammad Ali fight on free television. Some of the greatest of all time developed on free television.
“I’m so excited about a lot of people getting the chance to see this young, charismatic champion fight on free television.”
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For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.nbcsports.com/boxing,www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @BronzeBomber and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports and www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
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PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC DEONTAY WILDER VS. JOHANN DUHAUPAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

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Click HERE For Photos
Photo Credit: Natalie Mussafer
Birmingham, AL (September 24) – Just days away from the heavyweight main event showdown between Deontay Wilder and Johann Duhaupas, fighters featured on this Saturday’s fight card from Legacy Arena in Birmingham participated in a media workout Wednesday to officially kickoff fight week. The NBC telecast begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
 
In the co-feature, 2012 U.S. Olympian and undefeated heavyweight prospect Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale will enter the ring against the crafty “Big” Fred Kassi in a 10-round heavyweight showdown in the co-main event.
Below please find what the fighters had to say:
 
Deontay Wilder:
“I’m just ready to fight. Anybody can be knocked out. It just takes the right amount of time and patience. You have to set up for it. Some guys can take punches better than others, but I don’t think he’s faced any guy with the charisma that I bring to the ring.
“I don’t look at video or any of that stuff. I like to adjust when I get into the ring. It get’s me involved mentally and I can show off my IQ in the ring. I can’t wait for that bell to ring.
“When you talk about the heavyweight division, all of the guys and big and strong. You have to respect each fighter. At the end of the day, the records don’t matter. It’s about who’s the toughest, who’s the smartest and whose the most motivated in the ring.
“For all of my fights I’ve been gaining more experience. I knew I could go rounds and take punches even though people didn’t think I could. With this fight, it’s a new style and a new opponent, so I might have to bring out something I haven’t had to in my career.
“Each and every time I fight it’s a learning experience. Inside the ring and outside. I’m a busy champion. I want to be the biggest name around. I’m the right man for the job.
“I love this sport. I’m married to this sport and I’m not going anywhere. My hand is stronger than it was before my last fight and I look forward to putting it to the test.”
 
 
Johann Duhaupas:
“I’m very confident in myself and solid in my training. I have great confidence in all of the work that I have put in.
“Deontay’s a great fighter that hits very hard. I know that we’re in his neighborhood and that puts extra pressure on the fight. Either way, it’s a world title fight. Doesn’t make a difference if it’s in his backyard or mine.
“I’m not the first guy he asked to fight. Several refused before me but I’m the one who accepted the fight.
“We’ve got a great strategy in place. I have 15 years of experience. He’s a wonderful adversary, but like us all, he has weaknesses that I can expose.
“It’s been an honor to come to the United States. I feel like I’m in the movies that I used to watch as a child. I really appreciate this country.
“Height is always an issue when facing a taller guy, but it will be up to me to take care of that. I’ve fought several guys taller than me and I’ll be ready.
“I’m confident in myself and I’ll be equally as confident in the ring. I’m ready to deliver the knockout.”
Dominic Breazeale:
“A win in a small town is great. A win in a huge town is great. A win on national television is amazing. I couldn’t ask for anything better. I’m looking for the knockout on Saturday night.
“This is a great experience for me. I’m trying to design my own road map to the world title. Deontay and I have taken different paths, but I know eventually we will be fighting for the same belt.
“PBC is doing some great things and it’s great to be back in this position. It’s phenomenal. These are the things you dream about when you’re a kid. I’m glad to be on this huge stage.
“I’m an aggressive, boxer-slugger type of fighter. I’m always looking for that big punch. When I land it, the lights go out.
“Last fight I got hit with some shots I shouldn’t have taken. This time I want to be more sound defensively. I’ve worked on my jab a lot and I want to establish that.
“Slugging is the only way I know how [to fight]. I never want to go the distance. Fans want to see someone get hurt. I’m in the best shape of my life.”
Fred Kassi
“I don’t know too much about Breazeale. After the fight, I can rank how good he is right now.
“I just have to be smart in there. I have to let him make a mistake and counter those mistakes.
“It’s going to be a great fight because I always come to fight. I’ve come up short a couple of times but I am coming here to win!”
 Jay Deas, Wilder’s Trainer:
“We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing. Deontay is fighting at a pace that has never been done before. No heavyweight champion has ever fought as frequently as Deontay Wilder is fighting. He’s fought three times in nine months.
“The possible fights with Klitschko, Tyson Fury and Alexander Povetkin take time to get done. While those are coming together, we’re fighting different guys. These guys here come to win. This guy can be an instant millionaire in one night.
“We work day in and day out. I’ve been there with Deontay since his first day in the gym in 2005. We had a plan, we stuck to the plan and it turned out to be the right plan.
“Deontay is the hardest worker in the game today. American has been wanting a heavyweight that is charismatic, energetic, wants to fight often, has a knockout punch, has the looks and everything that the heavyweight champ should have. He’s the man for the job.
“Deontay is never out of shape. We put a heart monitor on him and that thing does not lie. It will show you that Deontay is in shape and that’s why we are always ready to fight.
“Without Duhaupas there is no Klitschko, there is no Fury and there is no Povetkin, period. We’re gunning for the biggest opportunities possible but it starts on Saturday night.
“In the heavyweight division, anybody on the right night can be champion. That’s why it’s our job to make sure Deontay is ready mentally and physically. We know he’s ready.”
# # #
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Bruno Event Team, start at only $25 and are on sale now. For Tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com.
For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.nbcsports.com/boxing,www.alabamatitlefight.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @BronzeBomber and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports and www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. For video clips go to www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.
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TELEVISED BOUT AGAINST FRED KASSI BUMPED TO SEPTEMBER 26TH

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Upland, California (September 16, 2015) – In a change of events a month prior to his scheduled main-event bout on October 13th, top

U.S. heavyweight prospect Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (15-0, 14 KO’s) will now be returning to the ring on the Premier Boxing Champions series on September 26th on prime time television.  Breazeale, who opened up the Premier Boxing Champions Series (PBC) this past June, will be the co-main event on the Wilder-Duhaupas card in Birmingham, Alabama.
The 2012 U.S. Olympian will still face Cameroon native Fred Kassi (18-3-1, 10 KO’s) in a scheduled 10-round bout.  Breazeale, who has been training hard in camp is excited about the opportunity and is truly looking forward to this upcoming bout.

Photo c/o Peter Politanoff
Photo c/o Peter Politanoff

“When I received the call from my adviser Al Haymon this past week asking me if I was open to bumping up my bout to the 26th, I was all for it.  To be able to fight on prime time television on NBC is a blessing.  I remember speaking with my grandmother before my last bout who doesn’t have cable and she was able to see me last time on regular television.  It means a lot to me that she is able to watch me again.”

“I am also looking forward to this bout as it is headlined by Deontay Wilder.  It’s no secret that I am gunning for him and I want that championship belt.  I want to be the heavyweight champion of the world and this televised bout is a great opportunity to showcase my skills while gaining fans and will put me in that position for a shot at the title.  I want to send a message that I’m coming for those belts”, said Breazeale.
“Here Comes Trouble“
 
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UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT DOMINIC BREAZEALE TAKES ON FRED KASSI IN PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC OPENING BOUT SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 FROM LEGACY ARENA IN BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 8:30 P.M. ET/5:30 P.M. PT

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UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT CHARLES MARTIN TAKES ON
MEXICO’S VICENTE SANDEZ, PLUS UNDEFEATED PROSPECTS TERRELL GAUSHA, 
BRYANT PERELLA & MARIO BARRIOS
ALL IN ACTION ON NBCSN
11 P.M. ET/8 P.M. PT
 
Omar Figueroa Forced To Withdraw From Scheduled Bout
Due To An Elbow Injury
 
BIRMINGHAM, AL (September 14, 2015) – 2012 U.S. Olympian and undefeated heavyweight prospect Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (15-0, 14 KOs)will enter the ring against the crafty “Big” Fred Kassi (18-3-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round heavyweight showdown on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on NBC Saturday, September 26 from Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama, with televised coverage beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
PBC on NBC is headlined by heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (34-0, 33 KOs) as he defends against France’s Johann “Reptile” Duhaupas (32-2, 20 KOs).
Omar Figueroa, who was originally scheduled on the card,was forced to drop out of his scheduled bout against Antonio DeMarco due to an elbow injury.
In another exciting matchup, heavyweight knockout artist Charles “Missouri” Martin (21-0-1, 19 KOs) squares off against Vicente “Bufalo” Sandez (15-4, 10 KOs) in a 10-round heavyweight affair.
Further undercard action features the undefeated Olympian Terrell Gausha (15-0, 8 KOs) taking on Puerto Rico’s Eliezer Gonzalez (15-1, 10 KOs) in a super welterweight bout, plus Bryant Perella (10-0, 9 KOs) in a welterweight attraction and Mario Barrios (11-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight fight.
The broadcast will switch over to NBCSN at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Bruno Event Team, start at only $25 and are on sale now. For Tickets please visit www.alabamatitlefight.com.
Since representing the U.S. at the 2012 Olympics, Breazealehas been nearly perfect in recording knockouts as a pro, having only gone the distance in one fight. The 30-year-old played quarterback at the University of Northern Colorado before picking up boxing and looks to keep his undefeated record intact on September 26 when he faces the toughest challenge of his career. In 2015 the Glendale, California native has recorded stoppages over Victor Brisbal and Yasmany Consuegra.
Born in Cameroon but fighting out of New Orleans, the 36-year-old Kassi will be looking to build off of his last performance, when he earned a draw against Chris Arreola in a fight many believed was too close to call. Kassi had previously delivered knockouts in five of his eight prior fights and will make his second start of 2015 on September 26.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, but fighting out of Carson, California, Martin has stopped his last 10 opponents within the distance. The 29-year-old owns knockout victories over Damon McCreary, Raphael Zumbano Love and Tom Dallas in 2015. He will be opposed by Baja California, Mexico’s Sandez, who is coming off of a knockout over previously unbeaten Thanasis Michaloudis.
Born and raised in Cleveland, Gaushawas a decorated amateur who won gold medals at the U.S. National Championships in 2009 and 2012 and represented the US as part of the 2012 Olympic Team. The 28-year-old is undefeated since turning pro in 2012. In 2015 he has scored a knockout victory over Norberto Gonzalez and defeated Luis Grajeda. He takes on the 28-year-old Gonzalez out of Cupey Alto, Puerto Rico.
An undefeated 26-year-old out of Fort Myers, Florida, Perrella comes off of a first round knockout over Eduardo Flores in August. He has picked up three knockouts in a row in 2015 and looks to make it eight in a row overall onSeptember 26.
Fighting out of San Antonio, Barrioslooks for his fifth victory of 2015 on September 26. The 20-year-old hopes to build on his momentum after earning a fourth-round stoppage of Jose Cen Torres on September 6.
For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, www.alabamatitlefight.com andwww.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @BronzeBomber and @NBCSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/NBCSports and www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.
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SHAWN PORTER DEFATS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FROM THE MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA

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Errol Spence Jr. Impresses With Third Round TKO Over Phil Lo Greco

 

Terrell Gausha Remains Undefeated With Victory Over Luis Grajeda

 

Robert Easter Jr. & Michael Hunter Remain Undefeated

With Knockout Victories on NBCSN

Click HERE For Photos From Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions

Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

LAS VEGAS (June 20, 2015) – “Showtime” Shawn Porter (26-1-1, 16 KOs) outworked and out-landed Adrien “The Problem” Broner (30-2, 22 KOs) on his way to a unanimous decision victory on Premier Boxing Champions on NBC in front of 8,138 fans at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday night.

 

In a fight dubbed “The Battle for Ohio”, the Akron-born Porter threw 590 punches compared to the 309 thrown by the Cincinnati-native Broner. Porter landed 149 punches compared to 88 from Broner.

 

Porter relentlessly attacked the defensive-minded Broner with jabs and power shots to the body. Broner tried to slow down Porter by pushing and holding and was eventually deducted a point by referee Tony Weeks in round 11.

 

Showing the great power and heart that made him a three-time world champion, Broner came out strong in the 12th round and sent Porter to the canvas with a powerful left hook. Porter was able to recover and stay on his feet despite losing the round.

 

Porter was rewarded for his efforts with a unanimous decision by scores of 114-112, 115-11 and 118-108.

 

2012 U.S. Olympian Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. (17-0, 14 KOs) remained undefeated and justified the talk of him as a future superstar by stopping Phil “The Italian Sensation” Lo Greco (26-2, 14 KOs) in the third round. The official stoppage coming 1:50 into the round.

 

Lo Greco came out strong, winning the first round on all three judges’ scorecards. Spence Jr. rebounded with a dominating second round that saw him put together numerous combinations to the head and body.

 

In the third round Spence scored an early knockdown with a sharp right hook. “The Truth” saw his opportunity and put the fight away shortly after with a lighting fast flurry that forced judge Robert Byrd to stop the fight 1:50 into the third round with Lo Greco on his feet.

 

In the NBC swing bout, rising junior middleweight prospect Terrell Gausha (15-0, 8 KOs) kept his perfect record intact against tough Mexican brawler Luis Grajeda (18-5-2, 14 KOs) with a unanimous decision victory.

 

Gausha knocked down Grajeda in the third round with a huge right hand that nearly ended the fight. Grajeda was able to survive the round and had moments during the fight but was out-boxed by the much quicker Gausha. The finals judges’ scores were 78-73 and 79-72 twice.

 

In NBCSN action, undefeated prospect Robert Easter Jr. (14-0, 11 KOs) made quick work of Miguel Mendoza (21-6-2, 21 KOs), knocking him down twice en route to a TKO victory 2:13 into the second round while heavyweight Michael Hunter (8-0, 5 KOs) knocked down Deon Elam (14-3, 8 KOs) on his way to a fourth-round stoppage.

 

Here are what the fighters had to say Saturday:

 

SHAWN PORTER

 

“”That’s how you beat a great fighter intelligently. We did everything we needed to do in preparation for this fight.

 

“Coming out we wanted to establish the jab and establish that we were the better boxer. I think we did that over the course of the fight, and tried to stick in some pressure, as well.

 

“I think I did a good job and accomplished what I wanted to do. There were no surprised out there, I knew he would be quick to counter.

 

“We established our dominance and that’s what got us those scores that we got and the win.

 

“Honestly my dad (trainer Kenny) wanted a quicker pace, a faster pace. And that’s why you have a corner. I think if I had listened to him better I would have fought a little bit better. There are things you can learn and things you can build upon.

 

“We’ll see what happens after this. I made a good statement tonight on NBC and showed what I’m capable of.”

 

ADRIEN BRONER

 

“”I’m okay. My kids are okay and I’m financially okay. It’s okay.

 

“Nothing surprised me. At the end of the day, great champions can take a good loss, just like they take a good win.

 

“I still will fight anybody. It don’t matter. I am a real animal. I came to fight today and I didn’t get the decision. But at the end of the day everyone here will take my autograph and my picture.”

 

ERROL SPENCE JR.

 

“I got hit with a couple of head butts in the first round, but I came back strong and got good experience out of this fight.

 

“I worked the body for a bit and got his hands to drop and then I was able to go to the head. That was the game plan; to go to the body, that’s always the game plan. To go to the body, and the head will follow.

 

“On short rest, I knew he’d tire and fade quickly.

 

“I hit him with a right hook to the body and then caught his chin. Then I started whaling on him and it was over. I had a wounded guy and took advantage.

 

“PBC is great. This was my first time on a huge card like this and I put on a good show. PBC is going to help bring in the casual fans and get more exposure for all of us. Tonight was my coming out party.

 

“The other 147-pounders will have to take notice. I want Keith Thurman next on September 12 for one of Floyd’s titles.”

 

 

PHIL LO GRECO

 

“”The short notice didn’t really affect me. Fighters fight no matter what. Nothing you can do but fight.

 

“There wasn’t really one big shot, it was more the barrage of punches that ended it. I’m fine though and I’ll come back stronger.

 

“I’d have liked to continue fighting because that’s what fighters do.

 

“Fighting on a PBC card was a great experience. I’ll be back shortly.

 

“I’m not sure what’s next right now. I don’t want to be impulsive, but I’ll be back soon.”

 

TERRELL GAUSHA

 

“I was catching him as he came in and trying to go to the body. He’s experienced though. I may have gotten a little anxious, but I got the win.

 

“His activity in the fourth round didn’t really surprise me. I’ve worked with him before. He’s been around the block and he’s a skilled fighter.

 

“I’m truly blessed to be in this position and to get this exposure on NBC. This gives me the motivation I need to get back in the gym and continue working hard.

 

“I’m going to let my manager figure out what’s next. I just want to keep improving with every fight.”

 

LUIS GRAJEDA

 

“He hit me in the third and I was dazed, but I recovered fast and did my best to even up the rounds.

 

“It was a straight right that caught me in the third and it surprised me a bit. From then on I was just trying to get back into it and get my shots off.

 

“I loved being a part of this PBC production. Everyone treated me incredible. This was like being part of a championship bout.

 

“I haven’t really fought an actual fight in a while before tonight. I want to get back in the ring some more and knock off the rest of the ring rust and get back to my true form.”

 

The card was promoted by promoted by Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @ShowtimeShawnP, @ErrolSpenceJr, @Phil_Lo_Greco, @MayweatherPromo @NBCSports, and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports.
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FIREWORKS BETWEEN ADRIEN BRONER & SHAWN PORTER AT PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE

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Photo – Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions

Antonio DeMarco Vows To Defeat Rances Barthelemy For Cancer-Stricken Sister on Premier Boxing Champions on CBS

 

Promoter Floyd Mayweather & Premier Boxing Champions Fighters

Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 

Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Lucas Noonan/Premier Boxing Champions

 

LAS VEGAS (June 18, 2015) – An animated Adrien “The Problem” Broner held court for several minutes Thursday, as a calm “Showtime” Shawn Porter delivered his own strong message in advance of the exciting weekend of Premier Boxing Champions action at MGM Grand.

In a different role than his usual one as boxing’s pound-for-pound king, President of Mayweather Promotions Floyd “Money” Mayweather helped run the press conferences alongside Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe.

On the Saturday, June 20 PBC on NBC show, Broner (30-1, 22 KOs) will take on Porter(25-1-1, 16 KOs) after Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. (16-0, 13 KOs) battles Phil “The Italian Sensation” Lo Greco (26-1, 14 KOs). Televised coverage on NBC begins at8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.

Also at Thursday’s press conference, main event participant on the Sunday, June 21 PBC on CBS card Antonio DeMarco (31-4-1, 23 KOs) vowed to bring home a victory for his cancer-stricken sister in Sunday’s PBC on CBS main event showdown against former world champion Rances Barthelemy (22-0, 13 KOs) .   Sunday’s co-feature showcases a welterweight matchup between Sammy Vasquez (18-0, 13 KOs) and Wale Omotoso (25-1, 21 KOs). Televised coverage begins on CBS Sports at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.

Also in attendance on Thursday were rising stars from Mayweather Promotions who will be competing on both Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets for Saturday’s event are priced at $400, $300, $100 and $50 and tickets for Sunday’s event are priced at $100, $75, $50, and $25 not including applicable service charges and taxes are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card for tickets to both events, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets for both events are also available at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com. The weekend of action is promoted by Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

“Mayweather Promotions has always done record-breaking numbers and our ultimate goal is to find the next Floyd Mayweather. With all of the talent out there, it will soon happen.

“I want all of the fighters out there to keep working hard, stay focused and know that there is no limit to what you can do.

“With all the media here talking to him, it’s obvious that Adrien is doing something right. He’s entertaining and people like it.

“There’s no limit to how far Adrien Broner can go in this sport. He can fight. I’m in the gym with him and he’s boxing top guys. He’s pushing himself.

“Shawn Porter is a really solid competitor. It’s not an easy task for Adrien, he’s going to have to fight.

“Mayweather Promotions wants to continue to work with all fighters and help build their careers so that they can get to that top level.”

ADRIEN BRONER

“This is the AB show. You’re all getting it first, live and personal.

“I’m fighting Shawn Porter and I’m fighting his dad. It’s like I’m fighting his dad because the check comes in his dad’s name, then he pays Shawn.

“Since both Shawn and his dad get a check, if I whoop both of them, will I get paid twice?

“I like Shawn as a person, but he gets so much negative energy from his dad. That’s just the truth.

“After I whoop you Shawn, come sign with About Billions and I’ll buy you a nicer car than your dad’s. I already wrote out the contract.

“This is going to be a great fight. I’m very excited because I love putting on a show for the fans. This boy will not beat me.

“I’m coming to deliver a beat down. Shawn Porter is a football player, I’m going to take him out. It’s going to be fun.”

SHAWN PORTER

“I feel great, it’s a good day. I’m just counting down until fight night.

“I’ve been working on everything in camp. I have a lot of speed, power, quickness and the whole nine. It’s going to take everything to win this fight.

“He’s got good speed, so we’re preparing for him to use a lot of that. We’ll make adjustments as we go along but the key is definitely taking care of his speed with our speed.

“It’s so sweet to be fighting at MGM Grand, this is what you want as a fighter. It’s my time now. I’m so excited about this opportunity.

“Number one, we have to take care of business. We know that if we take care of business it’ll be a great Father’s Day on Sunday.”

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“I just have to stay focused and put on a spectacular performance on Saturday night. Hopefully next time I’ll be the main event. It’s a process but I’m getting there.

“I’m ready for anybody in the welterweight division, I’m ready for any kind of step up in competition period. I’m not the guy to shy away from anybody.

“Porter and Broner are a little more seasoned that me, but skill wise I think I’m right on par with them. Skill for skill I can match anybody in boxing.

“A lot of guys aren’t in the position that I’m in to get the opportunities that I have. This is my third year as a pro and it’s all been coming pretty fast. It’s all about timing. I’m enjoying the process.

“You’re going to be looking at the future of the sport come Saturday night.”

PHIL LO GRECO

“There’s no such thing as the right moment. The perfect fight is when you want it to be. I got the call and decided that this is the perfect timing.

“It took me about 30 seconds to decide to take this fight. When you know why you fight, it makes these decisions easy.

“A year ago there was no way I thought I’d be on this stage. Now I have real opportunities and we’re here now.

“Win, lose or draw, I’m going back to the gym next week.

“I’m a pressure fighter. I like to engage and give the fans what they want to see. This is a great opportunity. Saturday is going to be fun.”

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I’m feeling good moving up in weight. Everybody knows Antonio DeMarco is a very, very tough fighter. He’s one of the best I’ve ever fought. His record who he has faced proves that. He’s experienced, but so am I. 

“I want to be the best Cuban fighter of all-time and I’m on my way.

“I’m in tremendous shape and I’m ready to go. I want to showcase my skills on Sunday to show the world how I can fight.

“Who do I want to fight? I’ll fight anyone they put in my way. I’ll fight Godzilla if he’s there.

“I don’t do predictions but this is going to be an entertaining fight. Unlike past Cuban fighters, I have power and can knock people out. In the amateurs you don’t need power. But in the pros, that’s what it’s all about.” 

ANTONIO DEMARCO

“This is going to be a tough fight, a difficult fight, but I have a great responsibility. My 15-year-old sister told me that if I win, she will beat cancer. She was diagnosed with bone cancer last November – and it was life-threatening. But her last chemo treatment was yesterday.

“From a ring standpoint, I am really looking forward to Sunday. I am very prepared, I am relaxed and ready to go. Besides for my sister, my other main motivation is that this is a chance to get my career back on track. A victory and I can get back to where I was and in position to challenge the best.

“I am treating it like another fight, but of course it is much more. Exposure-wise, you can’t get better than network television.

“I know Rances is going to be a difficult opponent. He’s a great fighter. But I have the experience to come up with a game plan to win. From a career-standpoint, this is a very important fight and I’m ready for it.”

SAMMY VASQUEZ

“It’s an honor to be here in this building among some of the greatest fighters in the world. Omotoso has never fought anyone like me before.

“I’m here to restore the greatness of Pittsburgh boxing. Everyone knows ‘The Pittsburgh Kid’, Paul Spadafora, but we all carry the torch differently. I respect him as a fighter and he’s done some great things. We were raised differently and I’m amazed at the great things he’s accomplished. But I’m here to bring a new look to Pittsburgh boxing.

“Omotoso is tough. His record speaks for itself at 25-1. His only loss was to Jessie Vargas who’s fighting for a world title. I don’t take anybody lightly. I’ve trained hard for this and I don’t think he’s fought anyone as fast as me or hits as hard as me with both hands.

“I’m going to throw a lot of punches and it should be fun to see. It will be an entertaining fight. The main goal is to win. If the opportunity presents itself to knock him out then I will. I’m not going to go in there trying to knock his head off or anything. I have to box smart.

“In this game it’s all about longevity and the less you get hit the longer you can fight so I don’t want to get hit. That’s my goal.”

WALE OMOTOSO

“I feel blessed to have the opportunity to fight on such a big stage. Fighting on network TV provides all of us such a lift. Getting this kind of national exposure is what fighters like me need and what we work so hard to get.

“I’m totally ready to take advantage and I look forward to being able to showcase my talents on Sunday. All my friends and countrymen are going to be able to watch it, and I don’t want to let them down.

“I really don’t know much about Vasquez, other than he’s a southpaw whose quick, he is just another fighter who can fight. But we can all fight. It’s not like he has four hands and two heads.

“The best man will be victorious and I am confident that is me.

“I can’t wait for Sunday. I wish it was time to fight right now. This is going to be my Father’s Day present to my kids and wife.”

#          #          #

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @ShowtimeShawnP, @ErrolSpenceJr, @RealKidBlast, @De.Marco07, @SammyV2112, @MayweatherPromo @NBCSports, @SHOSports and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions,www.facebook.com/NBCSportswww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing orhttp://shosportspoundforpound.tumblr.com/.
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EXCITING WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER PHIL LO GRECO TO REPLACE ROBERTO GARCIA AND FACE ERROL SPENCE JR. ON PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBC SATURDAY, JUNE 20 AT MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA 8:30 P.M. ET/5:30 P.M. PT

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LAS VEGAS (June 18, 2015) – Exciting welterweight contender Phil “The Italian Sensation” Lo Greco (26-1, 14 KOs) will face Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. (16-0, 13 KOs) in the televised opener of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC on Saturday, June 20 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, with coverage beginning on NBC at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.

 

Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia has withdrawn from the fight due to personal reasons.

 

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $400, $300, $100 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mgmgrand.com orwww.ticketmaster.com.

 

A 2012 U.S. Olympian who had a highly decorated amateur career, the 25-year-old Spence Jr.will look to remain undefeated when he steps into the ring on Saturday night. The Desoto, Texas born fighter was dominant in his last performance on April 11 as he defeated Samuel Vargas by fifth-round knockout.

 

A four-time amateur national Canadian champion, the Toronto-born Lo Greco turned pro in 2006 and quickly made a name for himself as one of the top fighters from Canada. The 30-year-old also fought in Germany, Italy and Hungary before making his U.S. debut in 2012 by defeating Hector Orozco in Atlantic City. He racked up a 25-0 record to begin his career and most recently was dominant in defeating Rafael Cobos in March. Now he will look to make the most of this opportunity on Saturday night.

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @ShowtimeShawnP, @ErrolSpenceJr, @Phil_Lo_Greco, @MayweatherPromo @NBCSports, and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports.
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PROMOTER FLOYD MAYWEATHER AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS FIGHTER MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

LAS VEGAS (June 17, 2015) – With pound-for pound king and President of Mayweather Promotions Floyd “Money” Mayweather looking on, fighters competing on this weekend’s Premier Boxing Champions cards at MGM Grand, participated in a media workout Wednesday at Mayweather Boxing Club. Mayweather made the most of his time at the gym, staying for nearly two hours to talk with the media, give the fighters insight and advice and sign autographs for fans.

 

Fighters who worked out at the event that are featured on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC card included Adrien “The Problem” Broner (30-1, 22 KOs),“Showtime” Shawn Porter (25-1-1, 16 KOs) and Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. (16-0, 13 KOs). Coverage on NBC begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT. Broner, who considers Mayweather a mentor and “big brother,” has trained at the Mayweather Boxing Club for weeks, per Mayweather’s suggestion.

 

Principle fighters who will be showcased on Sunday’s Premier Boxing Champions on CBS card were also in attendance as Rances Barthelemy (22-0, 13 KOs), Antonio DeMarco (31-4-1, 23 KOs), Sammy Vasquez (18-0, 13 KOs) and Wale Omotoso(25-1, 21 KOs) all worked out and signed autographs. Coverage begins on CBS Sports at4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT.

 

Tickets for the Saturday’s event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $400, $300, $100 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available atwww.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

 

Tickets for Sunday’s event, which is also promoted by Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions are priced at $100, $75, $50, and $25 not including applicable service charges and taxes are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available atwww.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

 

Here are what the workout participants had to say:

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

 

“You’ve got two guys this weekend in Adrien Broner and Shawn Porter who have the right teams around them. If they continue to win and we bring their personality out of them, we’ll see what happens.

 

“Shawn Porter has been a champion before. He only has one loss and Adrien only has one loss. So I think this is a good matchup.

 

“When I was getting ready for Robert Guerrero, who is a southpaw, the first guy I started looking to spar with was a southpaw and Errol (Spence Jr.) was giving me real good work.He pushed me and made me get in tip top condition, and once I was in tip top condition, I was ready and the best I could be. He’s a hell of a fighter.”

 

ADRIEN BRONER

 

“Porter can’t beat me, it’s not going to happen.

 

“I will not be the next Floyd Mayweather. I will be the first and only Adrien Broner.

 

“I don’t know why I would be terrified of Porter. I’m not terrified of anything. He can talk, it’s all okay.

 

“I’m going to give my dad a great Father’s Day present this weekend when I get that victory Saturday night.

 

“Everyone has to tune-in to see AB on NBC, it’s going to be a show just like every time I step into the ring.”

 

SHAWN PORTER

 

“I feel great. My weight is great and that’s all that matters. That’s the first small battle and the next battle will come on Saturday night.

 

“I think Broner thought that if he gets me drained it would be a problem for me, but it’s not going to be. That’s not the Porter way. We’ve done everything right to this point.

 

“Broner keeps saying that he hopes I’m ready to bring it, but I don’t really understand what he means because everyone knows I’m ready and everyone knows I always bring it. You don’t have to ask that of Shawn Porter.

 

“He’s a talker, he likes to run his mouth but it’s all good. We’re just going to do our thing on Saturday night.

 

“This is going to be a good one. Certainly a crowd pleaser. Old or new to boxing, this is going to be good for you. Broner has skills, but I have skills too. It’s going to be a magnificent fight on Saturday night.”

 

ERROL SPENCE JR.

 

“It’s been training camp as usual for us. We didn’t really do anything different, it was a little more intense but all the same things we do.

 

“I’m just ready to fight. I want to weigh-in, get some food in my stomach and get in that ring. I’m on weight already, it’s been a long, eight-week training camp so we’re 100 percent ready.

 

“I’m a boxer-puncher. I can come forward or I can box. I’m always looking for the knockout and I’m always bringing exciting fights.

 

“Fighting on NBC, on my biggest card to date, it’s really big for me and I have to perform so that I can get back on NBC and be the main event next time.”

 

RANCES BARTHELEMY

 

“I know DeMarco will be prepared and he’ll put a lot of pressure like Mexican fighters do. That’s the only way that he has a chance. We have a plan for how we’re going to fight.

 

“Moving to Las Vegas has made me more relaxed and comfortable.  Now that I’m married and have my daughter, it’s been even more peaceful.  I’m ready to go.

 

“Being on CBS where everybody in the U.S. can see me, it gives me even more inspiration. People will know who I am after this fight.”

 

ANTONIO DEMARCO

 

“I’m coming in ready to box, brawl or whatever it will take to get the victory on Sunday.

 

“I know my opponent is undefeated but he has not fought the same guys I have. My experience is better and it will show in the ring.

 

“We had a great training camp, all the hard work is done. It’s about going out on Sundayand putting on a show for everyone to see.”

 

SAMMY VASQUEZ

 

“This was probably the best sparring camp I’ve ever had.  It was a little longer than I’m used to – about eight weeks – and we had some great sparring partners.  I’m more ready than ever.

 

“The guys that Omotoso’s faced, he’s knocked out, so he’s been doing his job.  He’s a power hitter so I know I can’t take him lightly.  He dropped Jessie Vargas, but he’s not as quick of a fighter as I am.

 

“He can say what he wants, but he’s not going to knock me out.  That’s what he’s supposed to say.  Everything changes when you step into the ring. He’s going to find out pretty quickly that he hasn’t faced anyone like me.

 

“My game plan is to beat him and if I see the opportunity to knock him out then I will take it.

 

“I’m fighting for all my fans back in Pittsburgh, all my brothers and sister in the Armed Forces.  I’ll be carrying them on my back as I enter the ring this Sunday.”

 

WALE OMOTOSO

 

“I’ve seen a few of Sammy’s fights.  I think he has speed, but that’s the only thing that I see.  I don’t think he has the power to knock me out.

 

“I’ve faced the tougher guys than him.  In my last fight I floored Jessie Vargas, and I think Jessie is quicker than him.

 

“It doesn’t matter how quick he is, he’ll bring out the best in me.

 

“When I see a challenge I like to face it.  I’m going to knock him out.”

 

#          #          #

 

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.mayweatherpromotions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdrienBroner, @ShowtimeShawnP, @ErrolSpenceJr, @RealKidBlast, @De.Marco07, @SammyV2112, @MayweatherPromo @NBCSports, @SHOSports and @MGMGrand and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions,www.facebook.com/NBCSportswww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing orhttp://shosportspoundforpound.tumblr.com/.
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FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND FIGHTS REPRESENT SPIRIT OF HOLIDAY

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FIGHTERS FEATURED ON SATURDAY’S PBC ON NBC & SUNDAY’S PBC ON CBS CARDS REFLECT ON THE IMPORTANCE OF FATHERHOOD

 

LAS VEGAS (June 17, 2015) – Boxing’s storied history of close familial relationships will come to life this Father’s Day Weekend as Premier Boxing Champions returns to NBC onJune 20 and CBS on June 21 live from MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The fighters featured on both of these stacked cards have close relationships with their own fathers, are fathers themselves or have found a father figure in the boxing gym.

 

Moreover, fans of the sweet science are often born into a longstanding love for the sport that is passed on from generation to generation as fathers share the tradition of watching boxing at home with their families. As Premier Boxing Champions continues to bring great action to network television, this Father’s Day Weekend of back-to-back fight cards is another opportunity for fathers to continue to pass this tradition along.

 

On Saturday, Adrien “The Problem” Broner (30-1, 22 KOs) and “Showtime” Shawn Porter (25-1-1, 16 KOs) will face off in a fiercely competitive 12-round matchup. Also on the card, the undefeated Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. (16-0, 13 KOs) puts his record on the line against hard-hitting veteran Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia (37-3, 23 KOs) in the biggest challenge of his young career.  The PBC on NBC action begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT

 

Former world champions Rances Barthelemy (22-0, 13 KOs) and Antonio DeMarco(31-4-1, 23 KOs) headline the Premier Boxing Champions on CBS card on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21 live beginning at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT. Also featured in a televised bout is an explosive welterweight matchup that pits the undefeated Sammy Vasquez (18-0, 13 KOs) against Nigerian knockout artist Wale Omotoso (25-1, 21 KOs).

 

From the legendary duo of Floyd Mayweather, co-promoter of this weekend’s PBC fight cards, and his father Floyd Mayweather Sr. to other famed father-son teams such asJulio Cesar Chavez Sr. and Julio Jr. and Don and Felix “Tito” Trinidad, the importance of fatherhood is as prevalent in the sweet science now as it has always been, as evidenced by the thoughts and comments stated below from this weekend’s featured fighters.

 

ADRIEN BRONER

 

“My dad ‘Pops’ was the first person to take me to the boxing gym and that is where we met Coach Mike [Stafford]. My dad just knew that he wanted me to box and he took me to the right place.

 

“Everyone calls my dad ‘Pops’ because he’s like a dad to everyone around me – my friends, fighters in the gym…everyone.  He’s always been there 100 percent of the time.

 

“Me and my dad are both a little crazy. We are similar people. We are both cut from a different cloth, we like to have fun and work hard. We mesh.

 

“My dad usually comes to camp the last two weeks, so he is at the gym everyday leading up to the fights. When he’s not with me in the gym, he is working on cars as a mechanic in Cincinnati.

 

“[On being a father] I love being with my kids. I like to do fun things with them and give them more than I had as a kid. I love when they come to the gym and come to my fights.

 

“When my youngest Adrieon was born, I was there every step of the way and now this Father’s Day is going to be even better when I win.”

 

SHAWN PORTER

 

“My dad has always been there from sports to school and has helped me through all of it. He is an anomaly because he was always there as a single father. You don’t really find that too much in the African American community – a single dad that wants to be there for his children the way my dad has been there for me and my brother.

 

“Every day is kind of like Father’s Day for us. I want to make this one very memorable and it is the first of many to come. But obviously Sunday will be much better if I win.

 

“I feel like I make his day everyday. It’s him and I. Its what we do. You have your good days and bad days. For me being a son and an athlete team, it makes me want to perform on a different level.”

 

ERROL SPENCE JR.

 

“My dad got me started in boxing. He was a truck driver, so he used to drive overnight, and then he’ll get home 12:00 p.m. or later then take me to the gym.  Then after that he’d come from the gym, it was like 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., and he would rest for one or two hours and go straight to work.

 

“At the time, I didn’t really think about it, but as I got older and a little bit wiser, realizing all the sacrifices that he sacrificed for me to be able to box and go to all these national tournaments and all these tournaments out of state and stuff.  He had to pay for the hotel, pay for food and stuff like that out of pocket.  We didn’t have any sponsors and stuff like that.

“I am proud to be named after my dad and I thank him for believing in me and pushing me to be the best I can be.

 

“He plays a big part of my boxing career.  He’s my supporter.  That’s my mentor.  That’s like my best friend.  For Father’s Day, I’m going to get him a win, and it’s going to be an impressive win that he’ll be proud of and he’ll love.  He played a big part in my career.  Without him, I know I wouldn’t be boxing. My dad will be in my corner Saturday night.”

 

 

RANCES BARTHELEMY

 

“Father’s Day is very special to me because my wife and daughter, who are my world, treat me like a king for the day. Being a father is very important, and in today’s society, not enough fathers are there for their children. It’s great that there is a day to honor the good fathers that take care of their families.

 

“My father, Emilio Barthelemy, was always there for me and my brothers. He got us into the sport of boxing. When I left Cuba it was very difficult for me because me and my dad were very close. I love him very much and I want to wish him a happy Father’s Day as well.

 

“I remember when we were little, me and my brothers would take my father out to breakfast on Father’s Day. It was a very special time and we all enjoyed the moment. My wife and daughter love to spoil me on Father’s Day. Last year they took me to my favorite Cuban restaurant and I enjoyed a wonderful meal with both of them.”

 

SAMMY VASQUEZ

 

“Being a father of three girls and having such a strong relationship with my Dad makes

Father’s Day one of the biggest holidays for me.”

 

“My father has been with me every step of the way supporting my career from

selling tickets in Pittsburgh, to being with me at every fight and serving as one of my

managers. It’s great to have him alongside me, it would be special to win this fight

on Father’s Day for him.”

 

“It’s tough having to be away from my daughter’s on Sunday but we’ll celebrate on

Monday when I get back home and have our Father’s Day then.”

 

WALE OMOTOSO

 

“I am so proud to have two boys [ages 5 and 2] with my wife. We have lived in Los Angeles for four years and we have a very happy life together there.

 

“My wife’s parents came to LA from Australia so they can watch the kids this weekend when I fight and my wife can come and cheer me on.

 

“My father died right before I turned pro and moved to Australia from Nigeria. I got an opportunity to move away from Africa and I took it. He would be proud.

 

“My trainer Eric Brown is like a father to me now. He knows my wife and kids. We walk all the time. He tells me to keep my head on straight and focus.

 

“I’m going to win on Sunday. That is going to be my Father’s Day present for my kids too. I’m going to win this fight for them. It is the best Father’s Day present I can give – giving them a reason to be proud of their dad.”

 

# # #

 

Live coverage of Premier Boxing Champions on NBC begins at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT with the 10-round welterweight battle between undefeated rising star Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and tough brawler Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia. That bout is followed by the 12-round headlining attraction featuring Adrien “The Problem” Bronertaking on “Showtime” Shawn Porter.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $400, $300, $100 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mgmgrand.com orwww.ticketmaster.com.

 

Coverage of Premier Boxing Champions on CBS begins at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT with the welterweight clash between Sammy Vasquez and Wale Omotoso and is followed by the showdown between former world champions Rances Barthelemy and Wale Omotoso.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions are priced at $100, $75, $50, and $25 not including applicable service charges and taxes are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mgmgrand.com orwww.ticketmaster.com.