Tag Archives: Vasyl Lomachenko

boxing, fantasy sports

Winner sets Throwdown Fantasy Points record for #BradleyRios game

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NEW YORK (December 3, 2015, 2015) – A single game points record was set by the winner of the recent $2000 Throwdown Fanatasy Boxing Game as Ernesto Lopez(“Ring_King24”) racked up 474.5 total fantasy points to capture the $400.00 winner’s check.
“The reason why I play Throwdown Fantasy is because I am a hardcore boxing fan and I actually boxed as an amateur,” Lopez said.  “Plus, what’s better than getting paid for doing something I love and follow 24/7.  ThrowdownFantasy.com is the best!  I am on it all of the time and my wife thinks I’m addicted.  Hey, it’s paying off.”
Here’s a close look at Lopez’ winning team:

 

Lopez built his winning team around three solid favorites in Tim Bradley, Edwin Rodriguez ($5800) and Vasyl Lomachenko ($5800).  This trio cost him a total of $16,400 in camp money with only $8600 remaining for him to spend on his final two fighters.  The helping hand was provided by Karim Guerfi ($4300), the third cheapest fighter and decisive underdog versus Alejandro Gonzalez, Jr.  Jarrett Hurd was Lopez’ final pick.
By being the only player to pick five winners, Lopez was able to compile his 474.5 record-setting points.  The rest of the top 10 finishers were only able to select four winners in this game and that proved to be the difference.
Throwdown Fantasy’s all-time winningest player, “Yuggy,” shared second-place with 436.4 points for a $130.00 prize.  However, he entered his team three times to win almost as much as the game winner, $390.00.  The beauty of Throwdown Fantasy is that players may enter a contest as many times as he or she chooses, improving the chances of winning money.

 

By being the only player to pick five winners, Lopez was able to compile his 474.5 record-setting points.  The rest of the top 10 finishers were only able to select four winners in this game and that proved to be the difference.
Throwdown Fantasy’s all-time winningest player, “Yuggy,” shared second-place with 436.4 points for a $130.00 prize.  However, he entered his team three times to win almost as much as the game winner, $390.00.  The beauty of Throwdown Fantasy is that players may enter a contest as many times as he or she chooses, improving the chances of winning money.
There are three easy ways to play Throwdown Fantasy : 1. Select five fighters from the game group, using the $25,000 salary cap (see above); 2. Then track scoring in real time, earning points for wins, knockouts and CompuBox statistics (see example chart below); 3. Scoring the most points wins. Most games last a full week and each has multiple winners.
Fighters receive points based upon how they perform, rewarding each style of boxing. CompuBox fight statistics are available for research to aid in making selections.atwww.ThrowdownFantasy.com.
New players who sign up now receive FREE entry into Throwdown Fantasy Boxing’s monthly Freeroll game.  Throwdown Fantasy also provides a $250 free roll that players may enter using Throwdown Points (3 free entire upon registration) and $25.00 free game. Signing up and playing is free. People have the opportunity to register and play for free and then move onto paid games.
INFORMATION:
Twitter:  @Throwdownfan
Instagram: @throwdownfantasyboxing
boxing, Showtime Boxing

OSCAR ESCANDON GIVES TRAINING CAMP UPDATE BEFORE FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN AGAINST GARY RUSSELL JR. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 FROM HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO IN LAS VEGAS

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Live On SHOWTIME® at 10:45 p.m. ET/PT

Click HERE For Photos From Team Escandon
LAS VEGAS (November 2, 2015) – As he nears his Saturday, Nov. 14 showdown against WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. (26-1, 15 KOs), featherweight contender Oscar Escandón (24-2, 16 KOs) is primed and ready for the challenge.  The 12-round SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® main-event will be televised live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The co-main event of the evening will see undefeated super welterweights Frank “Notorious” Galarza (17-0-2, 11 KOs) and Jarrett “Swift” Hurd (16-0, 10 KOs) in a 10-round clash.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $155, $105, $80, $55 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino box office, by calling 888-9-AXS-TIX, or online at www.axs.com.
Less than one month after Russell Jr. and Escandon square off, SHOWTIME Sports® will present another high-profile matchup between elite 126-pound fighters as WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar defends against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo on Dec. 5 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
While working out in Las Vegas with Coach Ruben Guerrero, Escandón gave his thoughts on training camp, fighting Gary Russell Jr., and his quest to become a world champion.
On his matchup with Gary Russell Jr.:
 
“Gary Russell Jr. is a very skilled fighter but he doesn’t know what it’s like to be in a rugged fight.  Everyone knows I come to fight and Russell is going to find out firsthand what it’s like to be in a war. He better be ready to take some lumps.”
On training in Las Vegas:
“Running in the high elevation here in Las Vegas has been great for my stamina.  I’ve adjusted to the atmosphere and my body feels extremely strong.  I’ve gotten some great sparring with a lot of different looks, guys that move like Russell. I couldn’t be more prepared then I’ll be for this fight.”
On working with Ruben Guerrero:
“Ruben and I have been working great together.  His knowledge of fighting southpaws is excellent and we have a great game plan going into this fight.  Everyone can expect to see me throw a lot of punches.”
On his quest to become a world champion:
“Becoming a world champion is something I’ve wanted my whole life.  I’ve been close a couple of times.  In those fights I made the mistake of leaving the decision in the judges’ hands.  This time around, I’m going for the knockout, to assure myself victory.”
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @TGBPromotions, @HardRockHotelLV and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

UNDEFEATED CONTENDERS FRANK GALARZA & JARRETT HURD  MEET IN SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® CO-FEATURED EVENT

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SATURDAY, NOV. 14, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®
FROM HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO IN LAS VEGAS
 
LAS VEGAS (October 28, 2015) – Undefeated super welterweights Frank “Notorious” Galarza (17-0-2, 11 KOs) and Jarrett “Swift” Hurd (16-0, 10 KOs) will meet in an important 10-round clash that serves as the co-featured event for SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) on Saturday, Nov. 14 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
The main event, live on SHOWTIME®, will feature WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr.(26-1, 15 KOs) in the first defense of his world title against Oscar Escandon (24-2, 16 KOs).
“I’ve been here before but I know that I still have something to prove,” said Galarza. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and I’m ready to show the world I’m one of the best 154-pound fighters in all of boxing.”
“It is better to have less thunder in the mouth and more lightning in the hands,” said Hurd. “I’m excited about this fight and ready to show the world my ability come Nov. 14.”
“Galarza and Hurd represent two of the best undefeated prospects in the super welterweight division,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “It’s a high risk, high reward fight which will bring out the very best in both fighters for those watching on SHOWTIME and in attendance at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.”
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $155, $105, $80, $55 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased at Hard Rock Hotel box office, by calling 888-9-AXS-TIX, or online at www.axs.com.
A contender in the 154-pound division, Galarza has won six straight fights since the start of 2014, including a thrilling second-round knockout over previously unbeaten John Thompson. A Brooklyn native who turned pro in 2010, the popular Galarza has inspired many with his personal story of perseverance. In his last appearance on April 10, Galarza scored a third round knockout of Sheldon Moore in his hometown of Brooklyn on ShoBox: The New Generation.  The 30-year-old will look to make his mark in his first shot on a big stage when he enters the ring on Nov. 14.
Fighting out of Accokeek, Md., Hurd has an unblemished professional record since turning pro in 2012. The 25-year-old opened up 2015 with a third-round stoppage of veteran Eric Mitchell and followed with a seventh-round stoppage of previously unbeaten Jeff Lentz in August. He will take a step-up in competition when he challenges Galarza on Nov. 14.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @TGBPromotions, @HardRockHotelLV and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

GARY RUSSELL JR. MEDIA WORKOUT PHOTOS & QUOTES AS HE PREPARES FOR NOVEMBER 14 CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN  ON SHOWTIME®

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SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® on Nov. 14, Live At 10:45 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®From Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas
Click HERE To Download Photos From Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME
WASHINGTON, D.C. –(Oct. 28, 2015) -Beltway-area native Gary Russell Jr. (26-1, 15 KOs) held a media workout at The Enigma Boxing Club in Capital Heights, MD on Tuesday as he prepares for his championship bout on November 14 on SHOWTIME.
 
Russell Jr. will make the first defense of his WBC Featherweight World Championship against Colombia’s Oscar Escandón (24-2, 16 KOs) in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, Nov. 14, live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
Here’s what Russell Jr., Gary Russell Sr. (Gary’s father and trainer) and Gary Antonio Russell(Gary’s younger brother and undefeated boxing prospect) had to say on Tuesday:

GARY RUSSELL JR.:
“Training camp is going great, we’re right on course. There was a minor hiccup in the camp because I was supposed to fight on Oct. 24. I started sparring, but once the fight got pushed back to November 14 I cut the sparring off. I didn’t want to peak too early.
 
“Today (Tuesday) was my first day back sparring again. I’m working on my timing, ring generalship and lateral movement.  We’re right on course. 
 
“Oscar Escandon is strong and durable. He comes straight forward. If his corner was smart they would try to take away my hand speed which will be a big factor in the fight. He’ll need to close the distance, smother my punches so speed isn’t a factor.
 
“We are working on becoming just as comfortable fighting on the outside as I am fighting on the inside.
 
“A lot of fighters are one-dimensional. We are trying to make that diamond shine on all sides.
 
“I know that I will be victorious without a doubt. Anyone that you get in the ring with these small, 8-ounce gloves always has a possibility of creating an upset whether he’s a big puncher or not.  It only takes one shot.  It’s the fighters’ job to take away that opportunity.  
 
“I’m excited to fight, period.  I don’t even think about this fight being a title defense. It takes a certain type of mental toughness and psychological strength to get in the ring and perform. Anyone who gets in the ring against me is a champion in my eyes.
 
“It’s been about seven months since I fought.  I’m always anxious to get back in the ring. 
 
“If I get past Escandon I would love to fight Leo Santa Cruz, we fought in the amateurs.  But we never underestimate any opponent and we are focused on getting this fight out of the way first. Lee Selby is another guy that we’re looking at.  Of course Abner Mares, even though he lost, would be a great fight.  These are the type of guys that we’d like to fight. 
 
“Having my family with me during training camp means everything to me. It’s where I get my energy from. A lot of guys feel like they have to get away for training camp, but I don’t have to leave home. My family is the driving force behind my training camp and where I find my power and motivation. At the end of the day, I box for my family.
 
“If my brother ends up fighting on my undercard it would be very cool for me. It will be funny because if he does compete, you will definitely see me work his corner before my title fight.”
 
GARY RUSSELL SR.:
 
“I know it’s a championship fight, but we go into every fight like it’s a title fight. We don’t know a ton about his opponent, we just train like champions.
 “I have six sons, all of them are fighters. They all have different attributes as people that translate differently into who they are as people and in the ring.
 “Antonio Russell is 4-0, he’s worked really hard all of his life. Outside of the gym, he can fix anything. Antoine, who just qualified for the Olympic trials, is brilliant. I’m very proud of him because he just graduated valedictorian of his class with the highest GPA of anyone in Prince George’s county. Then you have Gary, who is so hard working, he’s the future patriarch of the family. He has an old spirit.
 “I’m proud of all of my kids and I’m proud that we’re a strong family unit. We learned a lot from Gary’s loss to Vasyl Lomachenko. We have a motto at the gym that hangs from a banner, it says ‘Success is the Ultimate Revenge’ and we’ve lived by that ever since the loss. We learned an important lesson from that fight and have moved on.
 “Boxing is a fleeting thing, you don’t do it forever. We’re doing our own thing. I’m not worried about what other people have done.
 “As a father, your paternal instinct kicks in because in this sport, anything can happen. You don’t want to see your son end up hurt. So we train for any circumstance. Because of that instinct, I’ve been strict and hard on my sons in order to try to keep them safe.”
GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL (Fighting on the Friday, Oct. 30 non-televised Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce TV undercard and potentially the November 14 undercard.):
 
“With the way we train and fight, our defense sets up our offense and our offense sets up our defense.
 “My job is to go in there and win fights. I know my opponent is a tall guy, but I also know that he is not going to win. He doesn’t have the punching power or ring generalship that I have.
“Once I win, I’m on to the next. I’m trained to fight consistently. I hope I get this guy out early, if it comes and presents itself. Then I’d love to fight on my older brother’s card two weeks after.”
# # #
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @TGBPromotions, @HardRockHotelLV and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

GARY RUSSELL JR. TO DEFEND WORLD TITLE AGAINST OSCAR ESCANDÓNON SATURDAY, NOV. 14 FROM HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO IN LAS VEGAS

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TICKETS ON SALE NOW
 
 
Live on SHOWTIME® At 10:45 p.m. ET/PT
 
LAS VEGAS (Oct. 21, 2015) – Gary Russell Jr. (26-1, 15 KOs) will make the first defense of his WBC Featherweight World Title when he takes on Oscar Escandón (24-2, 16 KOs) in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® main event on Saturday, Nov. 14 from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $155, $105, $80, $55 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino box office, by calling 888-9-AXS-TIX, or online at www.axs.com.
“It’s going to take all of my skills and my whole arsenal to defend my belt on November 14,” said Russell Jr. “Escandón is a strong, durable fighter with a lot of power. I will have to be on my A-game and I believe I will be able to showcase my skills when I get in the ring.”
“I’m very thankful for the opportunity to fight Gary Russell Jr. for his world title,” said Oscar Escandón. “I feel strong going into this fight.  Moving up to featherweight has given me the added weight to be at my full strength.  I’ve been training hard with Ruben Guerrero, who’s been doing a great job preparing me for Russell’s southpaw attack.  I guarantee that I’m going to make it a rough fight.”
“Gary Russell Jr. is one of the sports brightest young stars,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Winning the featherweight world title against Jhonny Gonzalez was an outstanding feat and he’s chosen a very tough initial defense against the heavy handed Oscar Escandón. We’re very excited to work with the great teams at SHOWTIME and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on this terrific event.”
The evening’s co-main event will be announced shortly, as will the full undercard of action.
Russell Jr., of Capitol Heights, Md., makes his first start since dethroning defending champion Jhonny Gonzalez via fourth round TKO in March in Las Vegas.  The talented and quick-fisted southpaw dropped the veteran Gonzalez three times en route to capturing his first world title.  The only blemish on the record of the 2008 U.S. Olympian is a close majority decision loss to Vasyl Lomachenko in a bout for a vacant world championship in June of 2014 on SHOWTIME.
Escandón, of Ibague, Colombia, is a former interim WBA World Super Bantamweight titlist – he lost the belt in April in a close, split decision to Moises Flores at StubHub Center but complained after the loss that a broken finger in his right hand prevented him from throwing any meaningful punches.  A former amateur standout who represented his native Colombia in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Escandón won his U.S. debut and the interim WBA belt with a 12-round split decision over Tyson Cave last December.  He has knocked out 10 of his last 14 opponents and is trained by Ruben Guerrero, father of long-time welterweight contenderRobert Guerrero.
Escandón, who holds a career-best seventh-round TKO over then-undefeated Jesus Cuellar in 2011, will be making his third consecutive start in the U.S. as he moves up in weight to 126 pounds to challenge Russell Jr.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @Escandonbox;  @TGBPromotions, @HardRockHotelLV and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.
boxing

Guillermo Rigondeaux’ manager accepts offer From Vasyl Lomachenko’s manager  

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CORK, Ireland (July 13, 2015) – Irishman Gary Hyde, the manager of unified super bantamweight (122 lbs.) world champion Guillermo “The Jackal” Rigondeaux (15-0, 10 KOs), has accepted in principal the offer made by Egis Klimas, manager of World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight (126 lbs.) champion Vasyl “Hi-Tech” Lomachenko (4-1, 2 KOs), for a Super Fight.

 

Rigondeaux is the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Super, WBO and The Ring magazine’s super bantamweight champion.

 

Cuban-native Rigondeaux, who now lives in Miami, and Ukrainian-born Lomachenko are both two-time Olympic gold medalists.

 

“‘Rigo’ will fight Lomachenko at a catchweight of 124 pounds, which should be no problem for Lomachenko because he weighed 125 pounds for one of his professional fights, Hyde said. “‘Rigo’ is a small 122-pounder who could make 118 without much trouble, but he would be giving away size and weight advantages to face Lomachenko.

 

“We would insist on a rehydration clause of 135 pounds for fight night. If Klimas agrees to this, then, we have a fight. Lomachenko is a masterful fighter like ‘Rigo’ and this match- up will be a classic. We have a pair of two-time Olympic gold medalists and current world champions going at it. I believe ‘Rigo’ is the more ferocious of the two fighters and I firmly believe ‘Rigo’ will dominate Lomachenko. Klimas, you know what you must do to make the fight, just pick up the phone and call me. ‘Rigo’ is ready!”

 

Follow Hyde on Twitter at @NoWhere2Hyde and friend him atwww.facebook.com/gary.hyde.50?fref=ts.
boxing, HBO Boxing, Showtime Boxing

MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO PREMIERES THIS SATURDAYON SHOWTIME®, IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED BY INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO EPILOGUE

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Network’s Distinctive And Award-Winning “Epilogue” Episode Focuses

The Spotlight On The Unpredictable Drama Of Fight Week

 

Click On The Image Below To Watch A Clip Lift: http://s.sho.com/1JmrDZ3

 

The fourth and final installment of INSIDE MAYWEATHER vs. PACQUIAO–Epilogue–premieres this Saturday immediately following the SHOWTIME premiere of the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao delayed telecast at 9 p.m. ET/PT.  In this clip, witness Mayweather and Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach arguing just moments before the fight.  And tune in this Saturday to witness all the drama and intensity immediately before and after last Saturday’s historic showdown.

boxing, HBO Boxing, Showtime Boxing

FLOYD MAYWEATHER DEFEATS MANNY PACQUIAO BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN FRONT OF 16,507 FANS  AT MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA

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Click HERE For Photos From Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Chris Farina/Top Rank

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

Click HERE For Photos From Will Hart/HBO

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

 

“He’s [Manny Pacquiao] is a hell of a fighter. I take my hat off to him. Now I see why he’s one of the guys that are at the pinnacle of the sport of boxing.

 

“I knew he was going to push it and win some rounds. He had some moments in the fight, but I kept him on the outside, I was a smart fighter. I wasn’t getting hit with a lot of shots until I sat in the pocket, that’s when he would land a lot of shots.

 

“We did what we had to do tonight and I’m truly blessed.

 

“I’m a calculated fighter, he’s a tough competitor.

 

“I have to take it off to my dad, without him I wouldn’t be where I’m at.

 

“He’s a very awkward fighter, so I had to take my time and watch him close.

 

“All 47 fights before I got to this fight played a major key in my career.

 

“Manny Pacquiao is a true champion and we both did our best tonight.

 

“When the history books are written, this fight will have been worth the wait.

 

“I have one more fight. My last fight is in September and then it’s time for me to hang it up. I’m almost 40 years old now. I’ve been in the sport 19 years and have been a champion for 18 years, I’m truly truly blessed.”

 

 

 

MANNY PACQUIAO

 

“It was a good fight; I thought I won the fight.

 

“He didn’t do anything. He was always moving outside.

 

“I got him many times, I saw his punches.

 

“He was moving around too much, it wasn’t easy throwing punches at him. If he would’ve stayed in one place then I could’ve thrown punches.

 

“I was cutting him and countering. I wanted to fight.

 

“I was able to handle his power; he’s not strong like previous opponents like [Antonio] Margarito.

 

“I thought I was up in the fight, so that’s why I didn’t attack harder in the 11th and 12th rounds.

 

“He’s not bigger than me, it’s not about the size. The size doesn’t matter. I’ve fought guys bigger than him and had no problem.”

 

 

*          *          *

 

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao was a 12-round welterweight world championship unification bout promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Top Rank Inc., and sponsored by Tecate con caracter, Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions -Terminator Genisys, in theaters July 1st, Paramount Pictures & Skydance Productions present MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: ROGUE NATION, in theaters & IMAX July 31st, The Weinstein Company and the new movie Southpaw, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, in theaters everywhere July 24 and Mexico, Live it to Believe it. The three-fight pay-per-view telecast was co-produced and co-distributed by SHOWTIME PPV® and HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.toprank.com, www.SHO.com/Sports,www.hbo.com/boxing and www.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @MannyPacquiao @mayweatherpromo, @TRBoxing, @SHOSports, @HBOboxing and @Swanson_Comm, and become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/FloydMayweather, www.facebook.com/TopRankMannyPacquiao www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.facebook.com/TRBoxing, www.facebook.com/SHOsports andwww.facebook.com/HBOBoxing.

 

boxing, HBO Boxing, Showtime Boxing, Top Rank

MAYWEATHER VS. PACQUIAO PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD FIGHTERS FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FROM DAVID COPPERFIELD THEATER AT MGM GRAND IN LAS VEGAS

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Click HERE For Photos From Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Chris Farina/Top Rank

 

Click HERE For Photos From Will Hart/HBO

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

LAS VEGAS (April 30, 2015) – Undefeated WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz, WBO Featherweight World Champion Vasyl Lomachenko, their opponents and non-televised fighters participated Thursday in the undercard final press conference before their respective fights taking place this Saturday, May 2, live on pay-per-view at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

 

In pay-per-view fights before Floyd “Money” Mayweather meets Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao in their epic welterweight championship unificiation showdown, the Mexican star Santa Cruz (29-0-1, 17 KOs) will take on fellow Mexican countryman  Jose Cayetano (17-3, 8 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight contest and Ukraine’s Lomachenko(3-1, 1 KO) will defend against Puerto Rico’s Gamalier Rodriguez (25-2-3, 17 KOs).

 

The pay-per-view telecast will be co-produced and co-distributed by SHOWTIME PPV® and HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT.

 

Also appearing at the press conference were boxers fighting on the non-televised portion of the card: Promising unbeaten Chris “Young King” Pearson (11-0, 9 KOs), who meets Said El Harrak (12-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight bout; hard-hitting Jesse Hart (16-0, 13 KOs), who’ll face fellow unbeaten Mike Jimenez (17-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the NABO, USBA and NABF Super Middleweight titles, power-punching Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti (9-0, 9 KOs), who will be opposed by Anthony Caputo Smith (15-4, 10 KOs) in a cruiserweight eight-rounder and undefeated super middleweight Brad Solomon (24-0, 9 KOs), who meets Adrian Rene Granados (13-3, 9 KOs) in a 10-round scrap.

 

Here is what the fighters and executives said Thursday at the Copperfield Theater at the MGM Grand:

 

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I’m more than excited to be on this undercard. This is the biggest card I could have been on. I want to show the whole world who I am.

 

“I prepared very hard for this fight, like I always do. It’s going to be a historic night and I’m happy to be a part of that history.

 

“I know that everybody is here for Mayweather and Pacquiao but there will still be millions seeing me fight and I want to show them who Leo Santa Cruz is so that I can get a lot more fans.

 

“”I’m still young and there are many more fights to come. The fights the fans want, we’re going to give it to them. I know those fights are going to happen.

 

“I want to look spectacular and I want to get Cayetano out of there really fast. Sometimes these kind of fighters are the ones who give you the hardest fights because they come hungrier and have nothing to lose.

 

“Seeing my family here and having them in the arena on fight night is a huge motivation for me. I feel happier and more relaxed and I’m ready.

 

“I never underestimate a fighter. Any fighter in the ring is dangerous. I hope that Cayetano is ready so that we can give the fans a great show.”

 

JOSE CAYETANO
“I know that Leo Santa Cruz is a strong, difficult fighter but he also has weaknesses and that is what we prepared for, to give him a surprise.

“I’m a man that takes challenges and I’ve been preparing very hard, I’m always prepared for these types of fights. I’m very prepared and I feel very strongly that I will win.

“I came here for the opportunity to beat Leo Santa Cruz and for the opportunity to participate in such a grand event that is Mayweather vs. Pacquiao.

“I’m very happy and very grateful and very excited to get into the ring. It’s a huge commitment, the entire world will be watching me but that is why I accepted the fight, I know that if I beat him, bigger and better opportunities will come my way.

“I’m not nervous because it’s not the first time that I’ve faced a tough opponent. I’ve never faced a world champion but I’ve faced opponents that throw hard punches, so I’m not nervous, I’m excited.”

 

VASYL LOMACHENKO

“This is an opportunity to show everyone what I’m capable of doing and for millions of viewers to see that I can do it.

 

“The best fighters get the best opportunities in the ring, there are a lot of great fighters getting those opportunities including myself.

 

“It’s always a good feeling when people are saying good things about you.

 

“I’m very excited to be involved in a bout such as this one, May 2 will be a big show shown around the world. I’m very happy to be in the opening bout for this huge fight.”

 

GAMALIER RODRIGUEZ
“I’m looking forward to this big fight on Saturday. It’s a blessing to participate in this type of press conference and come Saturday, I will win! I’m sure of it. I will be champion.

“All of the attention toward Vasyl Lomachenko gives me motivation. I’ve been a fighter and a boxer since I was young and it’s added motivation to come out on top this weekend.

 

“I know that Lomachenko is a good and technical fighter but it doesn’t compare to my hunger and drive to be world champion.

“I wanted to take the opportunity during my speech at the press conference to let everyone know that I can here to fight. It’s going to be a hard fought battle and I’m very confident that I’ll win and become the champion this Saturday.”

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“I am so excited to be here today to discuss the great undercard which will be the lead-in to our long awaited, history making event taking place this Saturday night.

 

“The lead-in fight for Mayweather vs. Pacquiao will be a very exciting fight featuring Leo Santa Cruz and Jose Cayetano.

 

“Leo Santa Cruz is one of the classiest gentleman in the sport. He’s a very fan-friendly fighter and a Mexican warrior. He represents Mexico very well.”

 

BOB ARUM, Hall of Fame Promoter, Top Rank

“I know that every fighter deems it a tremendous honor to be part of this great event.  We hope and believe that we will be presenting to the public through Mayweather Promotions and Top Rank, the best of boxing and the best fighters.

 

“Vasyl Lomachenko is considered to be the greatest amateur fighter of all time. Now, he looks for the same type of success he had as an amateur in the professional ranks. But this will be a very competitive fight, because Gamalier Rodriguez is a Puerto Rican who comes to fight and believes that he can upset Vasyl.

 

“A lot of the young men up here believe they are the next big thing in boxing, and many will be. But I know that Vasyl Lomachenko will be a big superstar in the sport of boxing.”

 

*          *          *

 

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao is a 12-round welterweight world championship unification bout promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Top Rank Inc., and is sponsored by Tecate con caracter, Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions -Terminator Genisys, in theaters July 1st, Paramount Pictures & Skydance Productions present MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: ROGUE NATION, in theaters & IMAX July 31st, The Weinstein Company and the new movie Southpaw, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, in theaters everywhere July 24 and Mexico, Live it to Believe it.

 

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.toprank.com, www.SHO.com/Sports,www.hbo.com/boxing and www.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @MannyPacquiao @mayweatherpromo, @TRBoxing, @SHOSports, @HBOboxing and @Swanson_Comm, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FloydMayweather, www.facebook.com/TopRankMannyPacquiao www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.facebook.com/TRBoxing, www.facebook.com/SHOsports andwww.facebook.com/HBOBoxing.

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FLOYD MAYWEATHER AND MANNY PACQUIAO FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS FROM KÀ THEATRE AT MGM GRAND IN LAS VEGAS

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“MAYWEATHER VS. PACQUIAO”

This Saturday, May 2, Live on Pay-Per-View

 

Click HERE For Photos From Idris Erba/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Stephanie Trapp/Mayweather Promotions

 

Click HERE For Photos From Chris Farina/Top Rank

 

Click HERE For Photos From Will Hart/HBO

 

Click HERE For Photos From Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

LAS VEGAS (April 29, 2015) – Floyd “Money” Mayweather and Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao faced off for only the third time Wednesday during the final press conference for their long-awaited welterweight world championship unification fight this Saturday, May 2, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, live on pay-per-view.

 

The last time the boxing superstars met face-to-face was at the Los Angeles press conference to formally announce the mega-fight on March 11. The first time they were photographed up close and personal came at a Miami Heat basketball game in January.

 

In the most eagerly awaited showdown in years – and the richest fight in boxing history —   the undefeated and universally recognized No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer Mayweather (47-0, 26 KOs), an 11-time world champion in five weight divisions, will take on the fighting pride of the Philippines, Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KOs), the only boxer to capture world titles in eight weight classes.

 

Here is what the fighters and executives said Wednesday at the KÀ Theatre at the MGM Grand:

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

“The only thing I can do is take it one day at a time. When the fight gets here I will go out there and do what I do best and that’s go out and fight.

 

“From the beginning of my career, I’ve always had a game plan. It’s just like chess. We make calculated moves in the ring and outside the ring. I got with the right team and surrounded myself with the right chess pieces.

 

“I’m a lot wiser than I once was. This fight sells itself. Our ultimate goal was to get to this point, whether it was Manny or another fighter.

 

“I don’t take anything away from Manny Pacquiao. He’s a solid fighter; a solid competitor and it will be an intriguing matchup come Saturday.

 

“Everything takes time, it’s all about timing. I’m glad that we had patience and didn’t rush. The time is now, this is the right time for this fight.

 

“I want to thank all the writers for being here. Some have been around since I was 10-years-old, some have been here for my 19 years in this sport. I’m thankful for all the writers, whether the stories were good stories or bad, you guys kept me relevant for 19 years.

 

“This fight is about one fighter who is at the top fighting another fighter who is at the top. It’s about giving you guys excitement. We don’t know how this fight is going to play out, but I believe in my skills. I believe I am going to be victorious.

 

“When I went to training camp I worked extremely hard to win this fight and I’m pretty sure Manny did the same. That’s why this is an intriguing matchup.”

 

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I don’t have a prediction, but I’m excited. I’m confident and I feel for the first time that I’m ready for the fight.

“I’m so happy because that feeling and that focus that I had many years ago, is back. I’m confident and relaxed.

“My love and eagerness for this fight has made me especially interested.

“I would like to invite everyone to witness the great fight between Floyd and I this Saturday.

“I want to be an example and inspiration to people.

“Before I became a boxer, I used to sleep on the street. I can’t believe that I am in this position. The boy who didn’t have food and slept on the street can have this life.

“On Saturday our goal is to make the fans happy with our performance. Both of us will work very hard to entertain the fans and give a good fight.

“I hope that both Floyd and I do our best on Saturday and to put our name in boxing history.

“The most important thing I hope for is that after the fight I can talk with Floyd about being an inspiration to people all around the world.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER SR., Mayweather’s Father & Trainer

 

“Whatever happens on Saturday, it’s going to be one-sided. Pacquiao is going to sleep.

 

“I’m a trainer, I know what’s going on with fighters. Pacquiao doesn’t have it.

 

“Everybody can say what they want to say. I’ve said it before, Pacquiao can’t punch. I’m not worried about it. I’m going to have Floyd walk him down.”

 

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Trainer

“When this fight was announced, Manny’s training level went way up.  He’s really excited about this fight.

 

“I think we will win a decision and outpoint this guy. If the knockout comes then that will be a bonus.

“I think Manny likes to be the underdog. We like pulling upsets and doing things we’re not supposed to do. Manny is going to be that guy.

“We will put a lot of pressure on Floyd. Manny likes to exchange and with his hand speed, this fight will go in our favor.

“Manny is reckless, but that’s his style. He tries to win fights and people enjoy his fights. He gives it his all and sometimes you get knocked out, that’s part of boxing.”

 

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

 

“The worldwide attention and interest in this event has been unbelievable and Floyd and Manny deserve it.

 

“Las Vegas has a rich history of hosting the biggest and best fights in the sport. Over the years Floyd Mayweather has made the MGM his home. This will be his 11th consecutive fight at MGM Grand and the 14th in his career.

 

“There are two great fighters that will be fighting on Saturday night and the focus needs to be on the fighters, no one else. The focus is on the fighters on Saturday night.

 

“On May 2, Floyd faces another huge challenge in fellow world champion Manny Pacquiao, in a fight that the whole world is waiting to see. Once again Floyd is out to prove that he is The Best Ever and I know he will on Saturday night.”

 

BOB ARUM, Hall of Fame Promoter, Top Rank

 

“This is a great promotion with two great fighters. I hope that this fight will help elevate the rest of boxing. I think based on the interest in this fight, there has been increased interest in boxing as well, and that’s great.

 

“People have spent a lot of time during this event watching Manny train, but more importantly, watching Freddie teach. It’s great to see two guys on the same wavelength, working on the strategy and then working it out in the ring.”

 

KEN HERSHMAN, President, HBO Sports

 

“The journey to this fight has been a remarkable one. In addition to the great writing and reporting that all the media has been doing, HBO has been putting on terrific programs for fight fans to enjoy and bring them closer to the sport.

 

“One important note for everyone, please order the pay-per-view Saturday night early, or if possible today or tomorrow. We expect that the ordering systems will be overwhelmed. Also, there will be two undercard events starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and those events can end at any time. We want to make sure that no one misses any of the main event. Tune-in and tune-in early.”

 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

 

“This event is about two world-class athletes, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, who have been working for weeks and weeks, all of their lives really, to get to this precise moment.

 

“These two fighters have worked their entire lives to get to this moment.

 

“Floyd and Manny have great teams. Floyd will be the first one to tell you that his team deserves a lot of the credit for his success and I’ve heard Manny say very similar things.

 

“What makes this event so special and so historic, is that we have two once-in-a-generation  athletes who will be meeting in the ring in about 72 hours. We are so proud to have been given the opportunity to be a part of such a highly anticipated event.”

 

RICHARD STURM, President of Entertainment & Sports for MGM Resorts International

 

“It is an honor for the MGM Resorts to house this highly anticipated event. Sports fans around the world will have the unique opportunity to watch two of boxing’s top champions, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, as they go toe-to-toe at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

 

“Excitement for this event has resonated throughout our MGM Resorts properties and the entire Las Vegas community.

 

“We have created additional programming at the resorts including closed circuit viewing that gives fans the chance to experience MGM’s great championship fights.

 

“We just want to thank everybody involved in this great event. We’re excited, we’re proud and we can’t wait for Saturday night.”

 

*          *          *

 

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao is a 12-round welterweight world championship unification bout promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Top Rank Inc., and is sponsored by Tecate con caracter, Paramount Pictures and Skydance Productions –Terminator Genisys, in theaters July 1st, Paramount Pictures & Skydance Productions present MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: ROGUE NATION, in theaters & IMAX July 31st, The Weinstein Company and the new movie Southpaw, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, in theaters everywhere July 24 and Mexico, Live it to Believe it. The three-fight pay-per-view telecast is co-produced and co-distributed by SHOWTIME PPV® and HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT.

 

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.toprank.com, www.SHO.com/Sports,www.hbo.com/boxing and www.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @MannyPacquiao @mayweatherpromo, @TRBoxing, @SHOSports, @HBOboxing and @Swanson_Comm, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FloydMayweather, www.facebook.com/TopRankMannyPacquiao www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.facebook.com/TRBoxing, www.facebook.com/SHOsports andwww.facebook.com/HBOBoxing.