Tag Archives: Thomas Williams Jr.

ADRIEN BRONER OPENS UP IN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MARK KRIEGEL

 

 

 

“Somedays you are just feeling good. Then you got some days that you just feel like, you know, the worst ever…I’m just glad to God that I got out of that mind state and I’m back on a more positive path.” – Adrien Broner

 

The Reveal with Mark Kriegel: Adrien Broner

http://s.sho.com/2kOYX86

 

Photo/Video Credit: SHOWTIME

 

Former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner opens up in an extensive interview with Sports Emmy® Award-Winning writer Mark Kriegel as he prepares for his welterweight showdown against top-rated contender Adrian Granados Saturday, Feb. 18, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

 

This interview is the latest in a reoccurring SHOWTIME Sports® digital series, THE REVEAL with Mark Kriegel, featuring exclusive and in-depth interviews with boxing’s emerging stars.

 

Broner is one of the most accomplished and outspoken young stars in the sport of boxing. After picking up world titles at 130, 135 and 147 pounds, Broner earned a belt in a fourth weight division (140 pounds) in October 2015 when he defeated tough Russian Khabib Allakhverdiev via a stoppage in the 12th round in his last hometown appearance. He’s 9-1 in world title fights and this will be the 15th time he fights as a pro in front of his hometown crowd.

 

Below are bites from the interview:

 

KRIEGEL: “You’ve been around a lot of death. You’ve seen a lot.”

BRONER: “Yeah.”

KRIEGEL: “Do you care to remember for me?”

BRONER: “I remember, but I try to forget. You know, I found out the hard way. And I’ve seen that I gotta maneuver different and that’s why I’m maneuvering differently. That’s why I put as many positive people in front of me as possible.”

MARK KRIEGEL: “Let me ask you about this year. It’s been a tough year for you. You did 30 days for contempt. What was that like?”

 

ADRIEN BRONER: “You know, I did a year at that place. Fighting a case.”

 

KRIEGEL: “As a juvenile?”

 

BRONER: “No, they tried me as an adult. I was only 17 at the time… I missed on the pre-trials. Boom. I beat it. I get out and I become Adrien Broner. My lifestyle is totally different. And then, one day, I wake up back in the same place—I was in one of the same [cells] I was in when I did the year.”

 

KRIEGEL: “What did you tell yourself?”

 

BRONER: “I made it the best that I can make it. But, you know, when I was in there. I used to be by myself. I used to try to be by myself as much as possible. But, I told them to put me in general population—because they wanted to put me in protective custody. I can’t do 30 days like that… I helped the whole unit…I just made it a better place at the time. If somebody needs something to eat, I gave them something to eat.”

 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSportsand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Adrian Granados Chicago Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
Hard-Hitting Contender Battles Former Four-Division World Champion Adrien Broner in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Main Event Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Tom Barnes/SHOWTIME
 
CHICAGO (February 7, 2017) – Hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados hosted Chicago media at the Garfield Park District Fieldhouse Tuesday as he prepares for his main event showdown with former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati and live on SHOWTIME.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown and also features WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Granados has pledged to dedicate the fight to his friend and former training partner Ed Brown, who fell victim to the violence on Chicago’s West Side in December 2016.
Here is what Granados, along with his trainer George Hernandez, had to say Tuesday:
ADRIAN GRANADOS
“We finally have a huge opportunity. I feel I paid my dues. I know Amir Imam wasn’t a fluke. And the robberies on my record were just that – robberies. You get in the ring with Adrian Granados and you’re going to get a hell of a fight.

“I wasn’t intimated by Broner when we sparred and I’m not intimidated by him now. I know I belong in this fight, at this level.

“It’s a tough fight. People are saying I’m going to have to fight like Marcos Maidana.  But I’m going to be Adrian Granados and I’m going to win my way.

“With our two styles it’s going to be a firefight. It can’t be anything but exciting. I have a great team behind me and I can’t wait to make everyone proud.

“Ed Brown was the heart of this neighborhood, and now I need to carry on his legacy. This is my opportunity to do something for my career, but also this community. I have to be twice as great, for me and him.

“Winning this fight not only changes my life, but it changes a lot of other lives. Beating Broner would change the sport in Chicago.

“It’s very motivating to know that I’m an inspirational figure for people in Chicago. It helps me get through those long days in the gym, when you don’t want to get up and train. I know what I’m fighting for and I use it as motivation.
“I started fighting in high school just shadowing my friends when they went to the gym. I asked my mom and dad if I could keep going and luckily they helped me get started and get on this path to where I am.”
GEORGE HERNANDEZ, Granados’ Trainer
“Broner puts his gloves on the same way we do. This is what we want. We want the big names. Beating Broner can get us to the next level.

“No one is going to give us anything. We need to earn it. We’re going to his backyard and we’re going to take it from him.

“This is one of the toughest areas to train in. If you can persevere through that you know you can make it in this sport. We could have gone away for camp but we wanted to stay here because it’s home. The only way to make this city better is by staying here and leading the charge and showing these kids that we can get away from that norm and bring better attention to this area.

“If Adrian can beat the hell out of this kid in his hometown that will send a message to all the kids in this community. It will let them know that you can succeed and do great things. Every kid that’s in here dreams of this opportunity. We’re ready and we’re not going to let it slip away.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Former Two-Time World Champion Lamont Peterson Washington, D.C. Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
D.C.-Native Battles WBA Champion David Avanesyan
Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center
 at Xavier University in Cincinnati & Live on SHOWTIME
 
Click HERE for Photos from Wallace Barron
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 7, 2017) – Former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson hosted a media workout in his hometown of Washington, D.C. as he prepares to take on WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan in a 12-round matchup that serves as the co-main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. The event is headlined by former four-division world champion Adrien Broner taking on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Here is what Peterson and his longtime trainer Barry Hunter had to say Tuesday from the Bald Eagle Recreation Center:
LAMONT PETERSON
“I’m going through a full-blown training camp and I’ve had a lot of energy. I think the strength will be there too but I’m an energy fighter. I like to put pressure and use my energy. Look for an improved Lamont Peterson.
“People are going to talk a lot about my layoff but honestly that only affects people who aren’t always in the gym. I have been in the gym working hard this entire time. I’ve been working on my craft. I got better and you’ll see on February 18.
“Avanesyan is a good fighter. He keeps his hands up high, so even though he’s there to be hit, it doesn’t mean I’m going to get good clean shots. It should be a good entertaining fight and a good first step at welterweight for me.
“Big fights are what matters to me. When you’re coming up it’s all about winning a title. Having fought for 12 years, it doesn’t matter to me as much. The way I’m looking at is, if I get this win then I’m the No. 1 contender for the belt.
“I have no concern about ring rust. It’s not even a thought in my head. I would be shocked if that was a problem for me.
“You never know what the right time is to move up in weight, but the time is now for me to move up to welterweight and I’m happy about it. Making 140 pounds was getting tough. I think it hampered my performances a bit and that let us know it was time.
“I’ve been wanting to move up but it seemed like my opportunities were down in weight. Now I’m ready to mix it up with the best guys here.
“For me, it’s all about the joy of getting in the ring and competing. I want to do it at the highest level and I’m looking forward to getting big fights.”
BARRY HUNTER, Peterson’s Trainer
“Sometimes having time off like Lamont had is not a bad thing. It gives you space and time to work on your mental game, shore up some things you could be weak at and of course it lets you heal up. It’s served us well and I’m happy with what I see from Lamont so far.
“We always approach an opponent, no matter the record, like they are a world champion. We prepare for war. If anything less than that takes place, so be it. We’re going to be ready. To me Avanesyan is a guy who is an obstacle in our way. If we can’t go around him, we’ll go right through him.
“We want all of the top 147-pounders. I always thought Lamont and Danny Garcia was a fight that warranted a rematch. Because it was a great fight that had a little bit of controversy around it. I still would like to see the rematch.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan Battles Former Two-Time World Champion Lamont Peterson & Unbeaten Contender Marcus Browne Takes On Former Title Challenger Thomas Williams Jr. Saturday, February 18 Live on SHOWTIME

WBA Champion David Avanesyan Battles 
Former Two-Time World Champion Lamont Peterson 
in Welterweight Title Defense
&
Unbeaten Contender Marcus Browne Takes On 
Former Title Challenger Thomas Williams Jr. In
 Light Heavyweight Showdown
Live on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
 
Saturday, February 18 From the Cintas Center
 at Xavier University in Cincinnati
 
CINCINNATI (January 24, 2017) -WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan (22-1-1, 11 KOs) will defend his title against former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson (34-3-1, 17 KOs) in a 12-round matchup that serves as the co-main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender “Sir” Marcus Browne (18-0, 13 KOs) meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. (20-2, 14 KOs) in a 10-round showdown. The event is headlined by former four-division world champion Adrien Broner taking on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados.
“It is a great pleasure for me to be defending my world title in the U.S. against a very good opponent in Lamont Peterson,” said Avanesyan. “I am the champion and come February 18 I will remain champion. This fight gives me a great opportunity to let the U.S. know what I’m about and put me in a position to fight the top fighters in the division. This will be a difficult defense but I am ready to show everyone how good I am.”
“I’m extremely excited about getting back in the ring and fighting on SHOWTIME again,” said Peterson. “I’ve been working hard in the gym and I’m ready to give my fans the kind of show they deserve. I know this guy is coming in with a lot of confidence from that belt, but I believe I’m the better fighter and I’ll prove it on February 18.”
“I’m ready to go to work and fight,” said Browne. “It doesn’t matter if I am the underdog; so be it. Let me be the underdog. I just want to beat this guy up. This is who I wanted to fight. I am fired up about this one and I can’t wait until February 18.”
“On February 18, I’m not leaving anything up to the judges,” said Williams Jr. “I think Marcus has gotten some gifts in the past, so I’m not leaving this up to anyone but myself. I wanted to stay in the mix. I don’t need a tune-up. I’ve been fighting since I was five-years-old. I just need to get in there and fight. I think this is going to be a really good battle.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Boxing, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.
Fighting out of Russia, Avanesyan defended his interim world title in his last outing when he defeated former three-division world champion Shane Mosley by unanimous decision last May. The 28-year-old is undefeated in his last 22 pro fights since dropping a six-round decision in his second pro fight.  Avanesyan picked up his interim belt with a ninth-round stoppage of Charlie Navarro in November of 2015.
Discovered as a child by trainer Barry Hunter while homeless on the street with his brother Anthony, Peterson has one of the best rags to riches stories in the sport. A pro since 2004, he owns victories over Victor Manuel Cayo, Kendall Holt and Dierry Jean in addition to the world title winning performance against Amir Khan, which he successfully defended three times. The Washington, D.C. native defeated previously unbeaten Felix Diaz in his last outing in October 2015.
The 26-year-old Browne defeated previously unbeaten Radivoje Kalajdzic in April 2016 after a big 2015 that saw him defeated veteran contenders Gabriel Campillo, Aaron Pryor Jr., Francisco Sierra and Cornelius White. The 2012 U.S. Olympian fights out of Staten Island, New York after an exceptional amateur career that saw him win the 2012 U.S. amateur championship at light heavyweight.
The 29-year-old Williams returns to the ring after dropping an exciting contest to light heavyweight world champion Adonis Stevenson in July. Williams earned his title shot after dominant second-round stoppages of Umberto Savigne and former title challenger Edwin Rodriguez. The Fort Washington, Maryland-native was introduced to boxing by his father, a former pro fighter and he will look to start his path back to world title contention with a win on February 18.
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CHAD DAWSON INJURED IN TRAINING WITHDRAWS FROM ALVAREZ FIGHT

SHOOTOUTIN QUEBEC
STEVENSON vs. WILLIAMS
WBC LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE
July 29 airing live on Spike TV from Videotron Centre
MONTRÉAL (July 19, 2016) – Former lineal Word Light Heavyweight champion“Bad” Chad Dawson (34-4, 19 KOs) will not face Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (19-0, 10 KOs) in the co-main event on “SHOOTOUT,” headlined by the light heavyweight world title bout between defending champion Adonis Superman Stevenson (27-1, 22 KOs) and Thomas Williams Jr. (20-1, 14 KOs), July 29 at the Centre Videotronin Quebec City. The 34-year-old Dawson, fighting out of New Haven, Connecticut, injured his shoulder during training camp.
 
“While we were waiting for Chad Dawson to join the planned conference call today (Tuesday), we learned from his manager that he injured his shoulder in training, and that he has withdraw from his July 29th fight against Eleider Alvarez,” Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) president Yvon Michel said.

Alvarez, the reigning WBC Silver light heavyweight champion and World Boxing Council (WBC) No. 1-ranked light heavyweight, will still fight on the July 29th card.

“We are already looking for a replacement opponent so Eleider retains his spot on Spike TV,” Michel added.
 
Tickets for the SHOOTOUT event are in sale at www.ticketmaster.ca, at the Centre Vidéotron box office, or by calling at GYM’s office (514) 383-0666, Champion boxing club (514) 376-0980 or at 1-855-790-1245, starting at $50.

Light Heavyweight World Champion Adonis Stevenson Battles Hard-Hitting Contender Thomas Williams Jr. In Main Event Of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike Friday, July 29 From Centre Videotron in Quebec City, Canada (9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT)

 
Plus! Former World Champion Chad Dawson Battles Undefeated  
Top Contender Eleider Alvarez Takes On in Co-Main Event
 
Tickets on Sale Now!
 
QUEBEC CITY (June 24, 2016) – Light heavyweight world champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson (27-1, 22 KOs) returns to defend his belt against hard-hitting challengerThomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. (20-1, 14 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spike Friday, July 29 from Centre Videotron in Quebec City, Canada.
Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 pm. CT and features former world champion “Bad” Chad Dawson (34-4, 19 KOs) against top light heavyweight contender Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (19-0, 10 KOs) in a 10-round showdown.
Stevenson will be making his seventh title defense and his second straight defense on Spike. His latest challenge will be the young and hungry Williams Jr. who comes in with a straight-forward style and a ton of confidence after he knocked out Edwin Rodriguez in the second round of their April clash.
“I am very happy to return to the ring on July 29 in Quebec,” said Stevenson. “I will demonstrate that like fine wine, I am even better with age. Even though I haven’t boxed in 10 months, I’ve never left the gym and I’m willing and ready to defend my crown.”
“There were many people who had lost trust in me two years ago after my loss, but here I am” said Williams Jr. “There were circumstances that led to that result, but I don’t make excuses and that is in the past. I’m coming off of the best performance of my career and I’m ready to hold that belt on July 29. Stevenson has never faced a puncher like me.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Group Yvon Michel (GYM), start at $50, and are on sale now. Tickets are on sale at Videotron Centre, GYM (514) 383-0666 or at Champion Boxing Club (514) 376-0980.
“Adonis Stevenson has been a world champion since 2012 and we expect another great show on July 29,” said Yvon Michel, President og GYM. “The fights on July 29 will include a group of ambitious and talented boxers, which promises a show with intense fighters making statements.”
Stevenson won the world light heavyweight title in June of 2013 in Montreal, via a sensational 76-second, first-round knockout over the then-undisputed king of the division Chad Dawson. The impressive victory earned Stevenson “Knockout of the Year” and “Fighter of the Year” accolades. From there, Stevenson went on to record stoppage victories over Tavoris Cloud and Tony Bellew while winning a decision over Andzej Fonfara. Born in Haiti, but fighting out of Quebec, Stevenson defended his title twice last year as he defeated Sakio Bika and stopped Tommy Karpency in the third round.
Williams Jr., a 28-year-old from Fort Washington, Maryland, was introduced to boxing by his father, a former pro fighter. A dynamite puncher, his biggest victory came in his last bout when he knocked out Rodriguez in their fast-paced duel.  However, the southpaw has also proven his endurance with unanimous decision victories over warriors like Michael Gbenga, Yusaf Mack and Otis Griffin. Prior to the showdown with Rodriguez he scored a second-round TKO over world-ranked contender Umberto Savigne last November.
A former world champion at light heavyweight, Dawson returns to the ring looking to earn another world title shot. The 33-year-old owns victories over former world champions Bernard Hopkins, Antonio Tarver and Tomasz Ademek and is coming off of victories over Shujaa El Amin. The New Haven, Connecticut-native will be fighting in Canada for the fourth time in his career.
A 2008 Colombian Olympian fighting out of Montreal, Alvarez defeated fellow top contender Isaac Chilemba in November 2015 to solidify his spot amongst the top light heavyweights in the division. The 32-year-old owned victories over previously unbeaten Ryno Liebenberg and Andrew Gardner plus triumphs over veterans Edison Miranda and Alexander Johnson heading into 2015. Alvarez was impressive in stopping Anatoliy Dudchenko and giving Isidro Ranon Prieto his first loss leading up to the bout with Chilemba.
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, andwww.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AdonisSuperman, @TopDoggJr, @yvonmichelgym @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,and www.Facebook.com/Spike. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Andre Berto, Thomas Williams Jr. & Jorge Lora Score Huge Knockouts on PBC on FOX & FOX From StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.

 
Click HERE For Photos
Photo Credit: Suzanne Teresa/Premier Boxing Champions
Carson, CA (April 30, 2016) – In front a packed house of 7,760 and a nationally televised PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes audience, Andre Berto, (31-4, 24 KOs) turned back the clock and successfully gained his revenge over “Vicious” Victor Ortiz, 31-6-2 (24 KOs) with a stunning fourth-round knockout in a rematch of their 2011 “Fight of the Year” on Saturday night at Southern California’s legendary open-air boxing venue StubHub Center.
Ortiz found success early dropping Berto with a straight left, sending the Winter Haven, Florida-native to the canvas. Berto turned the tables in brutal fashion in the fourth, drilling Ortiz with a right uppercut which sent the southpaw from Ventura, Calif. sprawling to the mat. Upon rising, Ortiz was met with a barrage of punches which sent him down again as referee Jack Reiss waived the fight off at the 1:14 mark of the round.
Said a thrilled Berto, “I wasn’t hurt by the first knockdown. I was more mad at myself for getting caught. Once he went down it was over, I knew he was hurt and I went right after him. He couldn’t take my power.

“I feel terrific, it’s a great comeback victory. I would take on Danny Garcia sure, just tell me when and I’ll be ready.”

From a disappointed Ortiz, “I didn’t really lose control. I dropped my hand and he caught me. He is a hard puncher just like myself.
“This was a history book type of fight. He went down. I went down. Righty vs. lefty. This is boxing.
“I knew as soon as the head butt happened that it was not good because the blood started pouring. That’s not a big deal. It happens in boxing.
“I never disliked Berto. It is part of the game. He acted like he didn’t like me, but I always tried to shake his hand. I don’t hate anyone.”
In the televised co-feature, Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr., 20-1 (14 KOs), continued his reign of terror in the light heavyweight division with a spectacular second round (2:59) knockout of Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (28-2 19 KOs).
With both contenders throwing and landing bombs from the opening bell, Williams and Rodriguez were each rocked in the first stanza. Towards the end of the second round with the action reaching a boil, Williams unloaded with a massive left hand that sent Rodriguez sprawling to the canvas resulting in an immediate stoppage.
Said an elated Williams, “I told you what was going to happen, that he was going be open for everything and he was. I countered him and hurt him with every punch. I could see his punches like it was slow motion.

“I want the title, absolutely I want to fight Adonis Stevenson next, he’s the champ and I want his belt.”

From a dejected Rodriguez, “I thought I could have continued. I didn’t know what the referee saw, but I could have kept going.”

“I didn’t fight the fight I was supposed to. I was supposed to go in there and box, and I didn’t do it. I should have taken my time.

“He throws like crazy and I wasn’t fighting defensively. I should have stuck to my game plan and that’s my fault.”

In the televised opening, unbeaten featherweight contender Jorge Lara, (28-0-2 20 KOs), savagely stopped former world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel, (54-6-2, 39 KOs) in the first round. Montiel was drilled to the canvas four times before the action was halted at the 1:37 mark.
Said Lara, “It went totally according to plan. We trained for every round, but we knew that it wouldn’t go every round. After the first knockdown, I knew it wouldn’t go past the first round.
“I want the winner of either Mares v. Cuellar or Frampton v. Santa Cruz.
“I am honored to beat a great champion like Montiel.”
From a shocked Montiel on the quick start by Lara, “It’s what I expected. He didn’t do anything that surprised me. He just caught me with a shot. But he gave me a couple shots behind the head that weren’t good.”

When ask if he was fouled, “Absolutely. Especially when I was down and he hit me in the back of the head. The referee should have called that (a foul).”

In televised heavyweight action, Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington improved to 17-0-1 (11KO’s) with an eight round unanimous decision over former world title challenger “Fast” Eddie Chambers, 42-5 (23KO’s). Scores were 80-72 twice and 79-73.
In a televised swing bout top light heavyweight prospect, David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez, 14-0 (13KO’s), stopped Philip Jackson, 16-3 (15KO’s) in the second round at the 2:07 mark.
PBC on FOX was sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. For more information visitwww.premierboxingchampions.com  www.TGBPromotions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.

Victor Ortiz vs. Andre Berto Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

 PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes This Saturday April, 30 From StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. Beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
 

Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/TrappFotos
 
Click HERE for Addition Photos
 
CARSON, CALIF. (April 28, 2016) – As we near the highly anticipated rematch between former world champions“Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Andre “The Beast” Berto, fighters competing on this Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes card participated in a final press conference before they enter the ring at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features an explosive battle between light heavyweight sluggersEdwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. plus unbeaten featherweight Jorge Lara taking on former multiple division world champion Fernando “Cucholito” Montiel.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.
Prior to the start of televised fights, an Official Fan Fest will be held for ticket holders outside of StubHub Center. The events start at 2:30 p.m. PT and features a Corona Beer Garden, food trucks, music from the band Metalachi and autograph signings with popular fighters such as Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Shawn Porter and more.
Also in attendance Thursday were heavyweights Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington and “Fast” Eddie Chambers who will compete in a 10-round attraction on the undercard.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Whiskey Red’s in Marina Del Rey:
VICTOR ORTIZ
“I’m an easy-going guy but this is boxing. He might hate me. I respect him, but I’m coming to take him down and out.
“I know what I’m here for and that’s a victory. As much talking as he’s done, it was a different guy that showed up today.
“This is a totally different fight than five years ago. We’re different people. I’m a different guy and so is he.
Saturday is right around the corner and I’m here. I see loss in his eyes. I’m ready. 100 percent.
“This is a whole new chapter in my saga. I feel like this is my time once again. I’ve only fought in my prime twice. I did a lot of damage at young age. I feel I’m in my prime now. The sky is the limit.
“I feel very at peace being back in Ventura to train. We’re going to capture another world title. We went to training camp for that purpose. My mind is set on being one of the greatest.”
ANDRE BERTO
“We had an amazing camp. The situation five years ago, there’s no reason to keep speaking on that. I’m a better man today. I put in the work for this one.
“I’m looking forward to this. Everybody knows me and knows how I get down. I’ll do my talking in the ring.
“Thanks to Victor for taking this fight. All the personal stuff aside, we have to get in the ring and do what we have to do. It’s been five years coming and now we’re here.
“The stuff Victor said on the stage and his body language. I believe he knows he is going to be in there with a different type of animal this time.
“I think he is already defeated. He sees how focused I am. If he has been hearing anything from camp, he knows I’m ready to go.
“He didn’t believe anything he said on the stage. Looking at him face to face, he was trying to tell jokes. I think that he knows that he is going to be in there with a different Andre Berto.”
EDWIN RODRIGUEZ
“My opponent seems to be really confident and it’s my job on Saturday to take that away. We’ve worked hard and we’re ready.
“I’m happy to be here and I’m really excited about this card. I remember watching this fight in Connecticut and I’m thrilled to be involved in part two.”
THOMAS WILLIAMS JR.
“I’m just ready to go. This fight was scheduled for March 12, but we always stayed in the gym. We worked smart, not just hard, but smart.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to fight on this platform. This is going to be a can’t miss fight. Get there and get there early. Don’t blink.”
JORGE LARA
“I’m proud to be here. We’re ready for a great fight on Saturday night. I want everyone to see how much hard work I’ve put into this fight.
“It means a lot to me to be able to collide with a great champion like Fernando Montiel.”
FERNANDO MONTIEL
“It means a lot to be a part of a dynamic card that his highlighted by this great rematch between Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto.
“It’s going to be a great night of fights. I’ve had a lot of ups-and-downs throughout my life but I’ve always worked hard. I’m just excited to get in the ring on Saturday night.
“I am a five-time world champion and I’ve been fighting for 20 years but I know on Saturday night that I’m going to have one of the best nights of my career.”
GERALD WASHINGTON
“It’s an honor to be here and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to fight someone like Eddie Chambers. He has so much experience and class.
“It means a lot to me to come from a little town called Vallejo and to make it all way up here to fighting at StubHub Center.
“I’m looking to take advantage on Saturday night and step forward in my career. We’ve been working hard and putting things together
“I’m excited for everyone to see the new and improved Gerald Washington.”
EDDIE CHAMBERS
“I want to thank my team for getting behind me and bringing me out there. I’m thankful to Gerald for taking this fight. Not everyone would take this fight.
“This is my chance to get back in the good graces and get back to the top level of this sport.
“You should show up early so you can see this one, it’s going to be a great fight.”
PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. For more information visitwww.premierboxingchampions.com  www.TGBPromotions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.
Richard T. Slone “The official artist of the International Boxing Hall of Fame” will be signing official posters of his Ortiz vs Berto 2 artwork. The first 2,000 people to arrive to the Corona booth will get an autographed poster.

Victor Ortiz, Andre Berto, Edwin Rodriguez, Thomas Williams Jr., Jorge Lara & Fernando Montiel Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 
PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes This Saturday Night at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
From StubHub Center In Carson, Calif.
 
Click HERE For Photos From Chris Farina/TGB Promotions/Premier Boxing Champions
Note: Photos are forthcoming; please check the link shortly
 
SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (April 27, 2016) – Fight week kicked-off Wednesday afternoon with media workouts for the long awaited rematch between former world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Andre “The Beast” Berto that headlinesPremier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, April 30 from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
The action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features an explosive battle between light heavyweight sluggers Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. plus unbeaten featherweight Jorge Lara taking on former multiple division world champion Fernando “Cucholito” Montiel.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.
Prior to the start of televised fights, an Official Fan Fest will be held for ticket holders outside of StubHub Center. The events start at 2:30 p.m. PT and features a Corona Beer Garden, food trucks, music from the band Metalachi and autograph signings with popular fighters such as Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Shawn Porter and more.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wild Card West Boxing Club in Santa Monica:
VICTOR ORTIZ
“I put a total of 14 weeks of work into this fight. Nothing easy about that work. Come the 30th, I’m going to prove why I beat Berto the first time.
“I know what I’m here to do. I’ve got my fire back. People claim that I don’t have the fire, but you’ll see on April 30.
“People don’t know what I go through on the daily. When I’m injured for months at a time, I just have me and my team. We work hard.
“I’m going to be back on top in no time. That’s my opinion. I know where I belong.
“I’m focusing on Berto. That’s my target and that’s my focus.
“He’s done what he’s done. You have to respect that. I’m here and I’m not going anywhere. We’re going toe-to-toe.”
ANDRE BERTO
“This is the type of game where if you don’t respect it, it won’t respect you. I’m in a much better place right now. I’ve learned a lot over the years since the first fight. I’m healthy and focused.
“I’m just ready to go. Camp was tremendous. We’re really ready to get in there and do it.
“There’s a lot that goes into this for me. It was my first loss and I had so many emotions back then, so it’s time to get that monkey off my back.
“My plan is to win this in a fashion so there will be no third fight.
“My focus is on getting the victory Saturday night. I want to look good doing. I’m not thinking about anything after that.
“I’ve worked on a lot of different things in camp. We’re going to do whatever it takes to get the win.
“You all haven’t ever seen me look like this. I’ve pretty much locked myself in a cage for eight or nine weeks. I’ve put everything aside. I’ve just been grinding.”
EDWIN RODRIGUEZ
“He’s got some power and some style. He can do a few things. We have to go at it.
“I feel great at this weight class. I have the speed and strength to make an impact in this division.
“I hadn’t fought a southpaw in a while but we’ve had great sparring with guys like Marcus Browne. I feel very prepared. I’ve never had an issue with southpaws.
“I’m excited to be back on the west coast. This is an incredible card. I was at the first fight between Ortiz and Berto and It’s going be another great fight. But I’m coming to steal the show on Saturday night.
“In boxing you’re as good as your last fight. Right now I’m a warrior who took more shots than I should have. I’ve improved quite a bit but I want to improve on any fights. I’m not going down again.”
THOMAS WILLIAMS JR.
“Win, lose or draw you know Thomas Williams will bring the fight to you. I’ve been dropped and gotten up. This won’t go the distance, so don’t blink.
“I’ve been boxing since I was five-years-old. I have an amateur pedigree and been pro since 2010. I had to take some time off in 2014 but now I’m back and stronger than ever.
“The biggest challenge is just getting to the ring. I don’t want to get caught up in the talk of what he does. It’s just going to be me in there. If I go in and do the things that I’m supposed to do, I should come out on top.
“You have to keep your punches short against a pressure fighter. A short punch will beat a wild punch any day. I just have to keep my composure and stay relaxed.
“I haven’t watched any of his fights. I leave that up to my trainers to create the game plan and we go from there. I have seen him fight before. We were on the same card, so I did have the chance to watch him live.”
JORGE LARA
“Montiel has been around a long time. He’s been a world champion and he comes to fight.
“I’ve studied him and watched him fight before. I feel I know him very well. I have a plan for how I’m going to get to him.
“I am very well prepared. I’m not worried about his experience. I’ve trained hard to be ready and I know what I have to do on fight night.
“The winners in this fight will be the fans. We are going to put on a great show and give the fans something to remember.
“If I can beat him, I can move up the rankings and get closer to a world title shot. That is my goal and this is a big step on my path.
“I’m really pumped up about fighting in front of the fans in Southern California. I know they will appreciate my style and it will be a great atmosphere on Saturday.”
FERNANDO MONTIEL
“Lara is a young talented guy and I’m going to have to be at my best. He’s a dangerous guy and I will have to be ready.
“I had to change everything to fight the lefthander after preparing to fight Abner Mares. We had a great camp and we will be ready.
“I’m excited to be on a card like this. I think the main event is going to be a really fun fight for the fans. I see both guys going down during the fight but I’m going with Victor to win.”
PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. For more information visitwww.premierboxingchampions.com  www.TGBPromotions.comhttp://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.
Richard T. Slone “The official artist of the International Boxing Hall of Fame” will be signing official posters of his Ortiz vs Berto 2 artwork. The first 2,000 people to arrive to the Corona booth will get an autographed poster.

Andre Berto Training Camp Notes & Photos

 
This fight has always been on my mind….
I’m going to give everyone the fight they deserve.”
 
Click HERE For Training Camp Photos From Premier Boxing Champions
 
OAKLAND, CALIF. (April 25, 2016) – Former two-time world champion Andre “The Beast” Berto has wrapped up training camp and is set to travel to Southern California for his highly anticipated rematch against “Vicious” Victor Ortiz that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes this Saturday, April 30 at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.
Prior to the start of televised fights, an Official Fan Fest will be held for ticket holders outside of StubHub Center. The events start at 2:30 p.m. PT and features a Corona Beer Garden, food trucks, music from the band Metalachi and autograph signings with popular fighters including Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Shawn Porter and more.
Here is what Berto had to say from training camp:
On his improvements since his first fight against Ortiz:
 
“I’ve improved tremendously. Mentally and all the way around the board. There was so much that went into that fight and that camp the first time. I shouldn’t have fought that fight, but being who I am, I wanted to get in there. I was just a young fighter who didn’t take the fight seriously. I overlooked my opponent. Now I’m a much more mature fighter. I’ve pushed myself for this camp.
“This fight has always been on my mind. Even when I tried to move on, other people continued to remind me about it. Everyone said I needed to get him back. That’s the fight everyone has wanted to see and that everyone deserves. I’m going to give everyone the fight they deserve.
 
“I believe that coming back from my shoulder surgery that I’ve been more motivated and improving as a fighter. Everyone has seen the improvements. We’re definitely ready for anything he wants to bring. If he’s aggressive we’re ready and everyone knows I can stand there and punch”
 
On this training camp with Virgil Hunter:
“Everything is going great. It’s been a long, tough camp. I’m excited and ready to close it all in. We’ve done all the work. We’re in great shape. No stone was left unturned. It’s been a great eight or nine week camp.”
On sharing training camp with Amir Khan and Andre Ward and the motivation it provides:
 
“We all feed off of each other. All of us have pretty much been in camp together leading up to and through all of our fights. Even now Andre is there to watch us spar and work. It’s great motivation for all of us to be there. We’re all pushing each other to get better every day.”
 
On how Virgil Hunter has helped him improve as a fighter:
 
“I call Virgil the professional because he’s a teacher. He works you mentally. Each and every day. It’s like being in school. He drills it in your head over and over. He doesn’t let you go through the motions. You have to stay on track mentally to work on all of the things that you’ve been working on. He’s more of a teacher than a trainer.”
 
On what he learned from his fight against Floyd Mayweather:
 
“A lot of people can’t handle the atmosphere and the buildup of that magnitude. I got the chance to really find out how to handle it all. I think I surprised a lot of people around me with how easy I was taking it. I think Floyd was surprised too, he thought I would get shaken like other guys. But I felt like I was supposed to be there. I wasn’t going to be the guy who stands there in shock.”
On preparing for Ortiz:
 
“You have to be prepared for whatever he brings to the table. You don’t know how Victor is going to fight and if he’s going to do his extra stuff. Or if he’s going to try to box. Who knows? Maybe you hit him two or three times and he feels like he doesn’t want to be there. I’m prepared for the Victor of five years ago.”
 
On Ortiz’s claim that he will knock out Berto:
 
“That’s what he said the first time. I’ve made it evident as well that I’ll finish him and finish this chapter. I want it to be over. Still for some reason my name comes up. People continue to cross us together. I just want to finish this chapter and finish in style.”
 
On what fans can expect Saturday night:
 
“The fans should expect an exciting fight. They might see the start of round 13 from the first one. It’s going to be extremely exciting. I doubt it’s going the distance. This is the fight the people deserve.”
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.TGBPromotions.com,http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr,@FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingwww.facebook.com/foxsports andwww.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.