Tag Archives: WBA

Boxing’s next great boxing trainer Julian Chua is a rising star in the gym, ring and corner

November 9, 2024 FNU47 Leave a comment

Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez isChua’s first true world champion

(L-R) – Jesse Vargas, head trainer Julian Chua and two-time World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez

LOS ANGELES (November 6, 2024) –- One of the hottest young trainers in boxing is Julian Chua, even though he still hasn’t received the high-level respect he deserves from many boxing fans and promoters.

When Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) dethroned previously undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) this past March, Chua’s stock took off because “Zurdo” is the first world champion the 33-year-old Chua developed into a world champion.

The journey Chua took to become the head trainer of “Zurdo,” who is only two months younger than Julian, was unusual, to say the least. At that time, Ramirez was 39-0 and the first of Mexican heritage to be world super middleweight champion, as well as a promotional free agent. “Zurdo” and his manager, David Suh (3 Point Management – 3PM), were conducting a search for a new head trainer and the list included some of the top coaches in the country. Chua was a relatively unknown commodity outside of southern California who at that time was training fighters at the famed Wildcard Gym in Hollywood (CA) under Hall of Fame Trainer Freddie Roach (he had also trained Chua when he was an amateur boxer from Indiana).

In 2018, Suh reached out to Chua to inquire if he’d be interested in training Ramirez, adding that he was also speaking with several other top names. At first, Ramirez really didn’t know who Chua was, at least, until they met at a coffee shop in Santa Monica to get to know each other. After that meeting, Ramirez gave Julian a chance to train him. The rest, of course, is part of modern-day boxing history.

“We clicked right away,” Chua added. “We learned things about each other and how we liked to train. I’ve always studied a lot and did some research about how he had been trained because I wanted to help him improve. I was getting four fighters ready in L.A. and ‘Zurdo’ couldn’t go there for sparring. I told him that I couldn’t leave these fighters to go and train him in Long Beach. We still wanted to work with each other and ‘Zurdo’ made it work. I went to Long Beach (where Ramirez trained at Hill Street Boxing & Fitness Gym) twice a week and he came to Wildcard three times.”

Chua made his debut at Ramirez’ new head trainer in 2019, when Ramirez moved up in weight to fight as a light heavyweight, stopping Tommy Karpency in four rounds. COVID-19 restrictions adversely affected Ramirez’ activity, but he learned and improved by continuing to work with Chua in the gym. “Zurdo” signed a promotional contract with Golden Boy Promotions, gaining added exposure fighting on the DAZN, and he reeled off four more consecutive victories through the middle of 2022, after which he lost for the first time in his pro career to WBA World Light Heavyweight Champion Dmitry Bivol (20-0), by way of a 12-round decision.

Ramirez decided that it was time to move up another division to cruiserweight because he was walking around at 200 pounds. Last October, Ramirez made his cruiserweight debut, albeit at a 193-pound catchweight, against former world light heavyweight champion and Bernard Hopkins conqueror Joe Smith, Jr. (28-4). “Zurdo” won a unanimous 10-round decision to become the mandatory challenger for Goulamirian.

“’Zurdo’ is the first world champion I’ve ‘built’ but I’ve been brought in to work with some world champions on their weaknesses – Regis Prograis, Steph Fulton and Alycia Baumgardner,” Chua commented. “It’s a lot more difficult that way because you can’t really have an impact in only two or three months. I’ve been working with ‘Zurdo’ for five years and I’ve had it good. He has a lot of natural talent and has always been a smart fighter, but he picked ‘nuts-and-guts’ too often in his decision making. He didn’t need to get hit so much even though he has a great chin. He has such a beautiful style and he’s so intelligent.”

“He’s such a natural. Mexicans are uppercut kings. I noticed that, defensively, Arsen didn’t move his head or feet much. He was so wide that he was open up the middle for uppercuts, left or right, and that was our master plan. We worked on ‘Zurdo’ not throwing his uppercuts from too far away. He had been wide but, in this fight, he smothered his opponent inside. He did a lot of technical work and he’s always been a versatile fighter. I have him boxing more off his back foot. He could bully opponents with his size at 168, but he doesn’t have that same physical luxury to impose his size at cruiserweight. He’s using his boxing skills more.”

Chua admits he cherished Ramirez capturing the WBA crown, professionally as well as personally. And he also believes “Zurdo” can become the first Mexico-born heavyweight world champion, the same as he was as world super middleweight and cruiserweight champion.

“It meant the world to me,” Chua spoke about ‘Zurdo’ becoming the WBA Cruiserweight World Champion. “The expression on my face when they announced the scores showed how much it meant to me. I’m still fighting for my respect with fans and promoters, especially after the Bivol fight. ‘Zurdo’ is too slick. I believe in this guy! I can see him moving up to heavyweight, but I want to clean up some more things defensively. Sometimes he keeps his head too low, and I don’t want him testing his chin so much. Depending on who the heavyweight champion is when he’s ready, I believe he can be heavyweight champion of the world with his activity so slick and prioritizing his defense. We’re going to double down. As Abel Sanchez (Goulamirian’s trainer) said at the post-fight press conference, he didn’t think ‘Zurdo’ was so slick, offensively and defensively.”

Chua is preparing “Zurdo” to take on WBO Cruiserweight Chris Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) in a unification match on November 16^th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

In addition to several mixed-martial-arts fighters, Chua is also the head trainer for pro boxers such as WBA world super flyweight challenger and WBA #6-rated John “Scrappy” Ramirez (13-1, 9 KOs), undefeated Hawaiian middleweight prospect Jordan “The Patriot” Panthen (9-0, 8 KOs), 2012 Ukrainian Olympian welterweight Taras Shelestyuk (19-0-1, 11 KOs), undefeated New York City welterweight Arnold Gonzalez (15-1, 7 KOs), Armenian super bantamweight Azat “Crazy A” Hovhannisyan (21-5, 17 KOs), and former WBA Inter-Continental Champion “Supreme” Kareem Hackett (12-1, 6 KOs), of Toronto.

Catch the Chua experience, Julian is making a name for himself in boxing circles and drawing fighters to work with him at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California. The best is yet to come, however, especially if “Zurdo” becomes world heavyweight champion in the not-too-distant future.

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Undefeated bantamweight prospect Dominique “Dimes” Crowder Ready to cash in on The Boardwalk

November 1, 2024 FNU47 Leave a comment

Streaming live Nov. 16^th on DAZN from Tropicana Atlantic City

“I have known Dominique since he was an amateur when I used to sponsor him,” Goldberg commented. “I have been his friend for years and watched his career progress to 17-0. He has a great team with Jose Guzman, Mark Breland, and his manager Adam Glenn. ‘Dimes’ is one of the best free agents in boxing and just an amazing human being.”

Crowder started boxing at the age of 14 in Baltimore. He fell in love with the sport and quickly discovered that he was a natural boxer. New York City is the home of his training camp for each fight in order to enhance his pro career, going back and forth to his Baltimore home on a regular basis.

Guzman has been training Crowder since the latter part of 2017 and he’s extremely high on his protégé. “Dominique is one of those diamonds in the rough from his amateur days,” Guzman noted.

“Everybody knew he was a very slick boxer who was hard to hit, but nobody thought he could hit. As a pro, he’s turned into a boxer-puncher. He didn’t train very much as an amateur because he was so naturally gifted, he didn’t need to. He’s more mature now. Dominique is one of those guys who eats and breathes boxing 24/7. If he’s not in the gym, he’s home watching boxing from back in the day. He is a student of the game.”

“He’s the WBA International champion and the question is who is willing to fight him at 118? He’s 6 feet tall, long, and rangy like Mark Breland and Tommy Hearns, and (for his size) Dominique can hit like them.”

Crowder describes his style as a good puncher who is fundamentally sound but can also mix it up pending the situation in the ring. Because of his advantageous height fighting at bantamweight, Crowder watches and in the ring, he attempts to simulate long, rangy fighters such as Mark Breland, Tommy Hearns, Michael Nunn, and Diego Corrales.

The four world bantamweight champions of the major sanctioning bodies are all from Japan and Crowder realizes he may have to travel halfway around the world for his seemingly impending world title shot.

“Boxing is a waiting game,” Dominque explained, “and I need to stay ready until I get that call (world title shot offer). Because I’m ranked, it could happen at any time. If not, I’ll keep working hard to move up and become the mandatory challenger. Hopefully, my chance could happen next year. I’m getting better and better and I’m always fighting bigger guys than me at training camp, real punchers, never guys my weight.“I’m willing to go to the moon to get my world title shot! I’ll only get one shot at my first world title fight, so I’ll roll the dice and fight anywhere in the world.

Another rising star, Chattanooga (TN) welterweight Avious Griffin (15-0, 14 KOs), headlines in an eight-round bout versus Adrian Gutierrez (12-2-1, 6 KOs). Power-punching Griffin, a former Tennessee State Champion, is trained by Brian “Bomac” McIntyre, who is best known for developing All-World boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford.

Another pair of potential stars who will be in action in six-round bouts are Long Island (NY) super middleweight Donte Layne (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Shaquille Cameron (7-3, 6 KOs) in a match presented in association with Overtime Boxing, and Paterson (NJ) junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings, Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs) vs. TBA.

Layne, 21, was a celebrated amateur who captured gold medals at the 2022 and 2021 USA National Championships and National Golden Gloves Tournament; the 20-year-old Flemmings, Jr., from Paterson (NJ), won a silver medal at the 2018 USA Junior Olympics.

A popular Atlantic City trio of fighters will also be in action: junior middleweight Justin “Mr. Atlantic City” Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs) vs. Imar Rosales (9-3-1, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder, along with heavyweight Bruce “Atlantic City Express 2.0” Seldon, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs) – the son of former (WBA) Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon, Sr. — vs. Julio Mendoza (3-4, 2 KOs), and undefeated lightweight Francisco Rodriguez (5-0, 5 KOs) vs. TBA in a pair of four-round matches.

A pair of potential female world title contenders, Philadelphia welterweight Stacia “The Natural” Suttles and Hawaiian lightweight Shere Mae Patricio (2-0, 1 KO) will also be showcased in four-round fights vs. opponents to be determined.

Suttles, who was born in New York City, was a 2016 USA Women’s National Championships gold medalist. Patricio, 21, won a gold medal at the 2023 USA Women’s National Golden Gloves and 2022 USA Women’s National Championships. She will face Sarah “Switch Kick” Click (1-7-1).

Also in action will be undefeated Italian junior welterweight Giacomo Micheli (8-0, 6 KOs), who takes on Ronnell “Punisher” Burnett (11-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout. Micheli was a standout amateur in Italy.
The card is subject to change.

Ticket prices range between $48.00 and $203.50 and are available for purchase online at https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-11-16-024/event/02006138C81B4F54?_ga=2.165801022.1645432099.1728316789-537326816.1728316789.

An amateur show will be held at Tropicana Atlantic City the following day (Saturday, Nov. 17 – 1-6 pm ET), sanctioned by USA Boxing. Tickets are $40.00 and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Atlantic City PAL.

INFORMATION:
Website: www.BoxingInsider.com
Facebook: /BoxingInsider
X: @BoxingInsider
Instagram: @boxinginsidercom

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Coyle to defend NABA title December 11 in Orlando

November 15, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

Orlando, FL (November 7, 2022) – NABA middleweight champion Connor “The Kid” Coyle will defend his title against knockout artist Anibal Cleto Francisco in a battle of unbeatens Sunday, December 11 at the Caribe Royale in Orlando.

The card takes place during the WBA’s annual Centennial Convention, which is held at the Caribe Royale from December 11-14.

A native of Derry, Northern Ireland who trains out of Pinellas Park, FL Coyle’s 17-0 with 7 knockouts. Coyle became the NABA champion this past May when he earned a hard-fought decision against Antonio Todd. He was slated to face Felix Cash October 8 in England but the entire card was cancelled after main event participant Conor Benn failed a drug test.

Hailing from Monte Plata, Dominican Republic, Francisco’s 10-0 with 9 of his victories coming by KO. On July 2, the 22-year-old stopped Yeison Gonzalez in the fifth round to capture the WBA Fedelatin title.

“After the disappointment surrounding the cancellation of Connor’s fight in England, we wanted to find a good opportunity,” said Coyle’s promoter Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions. “The WBA Centennial Convention is a great event and Connor loves fighting at the Carribe Royale because he’s got a big fan base in Central Florida. He’s already back in the US preparing with Jim McLaughlin for this fight and is planning to put on a great show December 11.”

The card is promoted by Boxlab Promotions.

More information on the card including ticket and broadcast details will be announced shortly.

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DANIEL DUBOIS BECOMES THE NEW WBA HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD

June 13, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

THE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM AND PEACE: FIGHT NIGHT LIVE FROM CASINO MIAMI JAI-ALIA

**Fight Night Photos:** https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1R0TreZJOHZc2DF-URwEEdOFV75RVhsht?usp=sharing
**Photo Credit:** David Martin-Warr / DKP
**All official scorecards:** https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t8LZip4oDLriuhUXnkTFiGbxP_U0DP8k?usp=sharing

**WBA HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 12 ROUNDS**
**Trevor Bryan (22-1, 15 KOs) vs. Daniel DuBois (18-1, 17 KOs)**
**Result:** Daniel Dubois Wins via TKO (4^th Round at 1:58)
**Scorecard:** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-PRjTMzT0u1xbTPLJkF8WbXuMNbE4UCH/view?usp=sharing

**Daniel Dubois Quote:** The only words are ‘and the new’ and I am just so glad it is now. It is happening now and we have made it real, my dad and my family, I’ve done everyone proud, the country and I can’t wait.

In the first round I was just trying to figure him out and see what he had. I said I was going to test the chin and I just went for it.

He brought out something in me, he brought out a wicked left hand! It was a punch-perfect ending, and I am just so happy. I had a few rough patches during this camp, but we pulled through and we got the victory.

I am just so happy to have got this world title. This is what all the hard work was for and, no disrespect to Trevor, but his 0 had to go and I was just in there on a demolition mission.

I am ready for whoever is next. I believe this will instantly make me a better fighter now. When you win the world title they say you become next level so names like Dillian Whyte and Joseph Parker are all on my hitlist. I will fight whoever Frank puts me in with next.

It has been amazing. Coming out here and winning a world title is what I dreamed of as a little kid and now it has finally happened.

**Trevor Bryan Quote:** “I’m feeling alright. I knew he was going to come out with big punches, and I was trying to land some and let him tire himself out. But I wasn’t shooting my jab enough.”

**SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT ATTRACTION – 6 ROUNDS**
**Luis Rodriguez (9-0, 9 KOs) vs. Ryan Adams (8-5-2, 6 KOs)**
**Result:** Luis Rodriguez Wins via TKO (3^rd Round at 2:26)
**Scorecard:** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U7uzf55jwRHFwzibpQ_kMcNuMlIl0PKy/view?usp=sharing

**Luis Rodriguez Quote:** “It’s the best feeling finally getting the knockout. He was a complicated boxer, a brawler. I don’t like these types of fights. We will see what’s next – but I’m ready for the next challenge.”

**NABA GOLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS**
**DaCarree Scott (7-1, 6 KOs) vs. Jonathan Guidry (18 -1-2, 6 KOs)**
**Result: Johnathan Guidry Wins via TKO (7^th Round at 2:01)**
**Scorecard:**

**Johnathan Guidry Quote:** “I’m feeling good. I didn’t even get to have a proper training camp or the right sparring partners. I’m looking forward to whatever is next.”

**NABA CRUISERWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS**
**Joltin Johnnie Langston (11-3, 4 KOs) vs. Isaiah Thompson (6-1-2, 5 KOs)**
**Result:** Johnnie Langston Wins via Split Decision (95-94, 94-95, 92-97)
**Scorecard:**https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Vln447gXJBlroxrgeBJhgIf5q7tYRne8/view?usp=sharing

**Johnnie Langston Quote:** “I didn’t even have a chance for a full training camp. I blew up [in weight] during camp and was a bit dehydrated in the ring. I’m just glad we came up with this result and that I’m still a champ.”

**NABA LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS**
**Ahmed Elbiali (22-1, 18 KOs) vs. Dervin Colina (16-2, 14 KOs)**
**Result:** Ahmed Elbiali Wins via Disqualification
**Scorecard:** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1URsbHgUf3xDThEOAXC-9z1dXVexiQo3l/view?usp=sharing

**Ahmed Elbial Quote**: “I’m just glad that the both of us left the ring healthy. I’m excited to be crowned the new champion, and I hope that the next show I get to better showcase my skills. We had a great, old-school boxing crowd out here tonight, and that made it a fun experience.”

**SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT ATTRACTION – 4 ROUNDS**
**Raynel Mederos (7-0, 2 KO) vs. Ryan Wilson 1-1, 1 KO**
**Result:** Raynel Mederos Wins via TKO (2^nd Round at 2:07)
**Scorecard:** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mdnashyn81jVR6EDi1kePK46oGrJ3Wcq/view?usp=sharing

**Raynel Mederos Quote:** “I feel really great, and I want to give a special thanks to my trainer who has helped me get this far. We are taking my career step by step, round by round.”

**NABA WELTERWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS**
**Tre’Sean Wiggins (14-5-3, 8 KOs) vs. Travis Castellon (17-4-2, 12 KOs)**
**Result:** Tre’Sean Wiggins Wins via TKO (1^st Round at 2:07)
**Scorecard:** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ra9wAwRWWoRHV41zFw1iYkfo-bFHfQYP/view?usp=sharing

**Tre’Sean Wiggins Quote:** “The gameplan for inside the ring was to take my time. I didn’t want to rush it,”
“I want to be in the top 10. Whatever Don King has for me next; I will do.”

**WBA CONTINENTAL AMERICAS MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS**
**Anthony Lenk (17-9, 7 KOs) vs. Ian Green (16-2, 11 KOs)**
**Result:** Ian Green Wins via Unanimous Decision (91-99, 92-98, 92-98)
**Scorecard:** https://drive.google.com/file/d/1m8trcSoLu6qRDwSPi_2tP6sbhlz-xaz1/view?usp=sharing

**Ian Green Quote**: “I am feeling really good, this was the first time I’ve pushed to 10-rounds. Lenk was a crappy opponent and didn’t really bring anything to the table. He was just really good at surviving and pacing himself.”

**Anthony Lenk Quote**: “He’s a good fighter. He came to represent for Don King, for sure. I’m still one of your fighters, and I just hope you still keep me here after this.”

boxing

Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez fights back against Dmitry Bivol’s claim of turning down a title fight

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

LAS VEGAS (January 31, 2022) – Back in December, right after Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (43-0, 29 KOs) stopped Yunieski Gonzalez to become the mandatory challenger for World Boxing Association (WBA) Light Heavyweight World Super Champion Dmitry Bivol (19-0, 11 KOs) who suddenly and surprisingly went dark, until he recently make an unsubstantiated claim that “Zurdo” had turned down an offer to fight him.

Bivol was quoted in a recent boxing news report, which was also picked up by other media outlets, saying, “I know for a fact that my team did offer Team Ramirez to fight me December 11^th in Russia, and the purse offered was about the same as what I was offered to fight him on a (Golden Boy Promotions) show. He rejected the offer.”

“I don’t know why he’s saying they offered a fight to me,” Ramirez countered, “but he must be really confused. To be clear there was never a contract that was sent to my team or Golden Boy for a fight; unlike how a contract was delivered to him and his team from Golden Boy for the December bout. I’m confused why he continues to be a pawn and create false narratives and tries everything to hide from this fight. It’s just a matter of time before that belt comes to where it belongs.”

Ramirez, the first Mexican to capture the World super middleweight title, is a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Champion, who earned his title shot against Bivol by winning his WBA Title Eliminator versus Gonzalez.

“After Bivol, Joe Smith is my next target since he has my belt (WBO) that I had at 168 pounds,” Ramirez remarked. “I am the best light heavyweight out there and it’s not even close. There’s a reason why these champs are scared to call my name, but soon they won’t have a choice. I would end Smith in less than 6 rounds.”

Bivol also said in the aforementioned story: “My motivation and my ambitions have not changed for a long time – I want to fight the best. I want to prove that I am the best in my division.”

Guess what, Dmitry, 43-0 “Zurdo” is the best!

INFORMATION:
Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com
Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions
Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

boxing

Top Northeast boxers to be showcased this Saturday night on “Fall Brawl” card at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, MA

November 18, 2021 FNU47 Leave a comment

Top Northeast boxers to be showcased this Saturday night on “Fall Brawl” card

Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, MA

BOSTON (November 15, 2021) – Presenting its fourth event in fewer than 60 days since its inaugural event this past September 24^th, Vertex Promotions will end its first year of successfully promoting professional boxing events, “Fall Brawl,” this Saturday (Nov. 20) night at its Boston suburb home, Mosely’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

Many of the Northeast’s most promising and popular prospects will be in action in the intimate surroundings at Mosely’s.

GO HERE TO WATCH A VIDEO PROMO: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CWJH7kgjiVy/?utm_medium=copy_link

Undefeated 23-year-old lightweight RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (14-0, 11 KOs), the reigning ABF American West and NBA Continental champion from Albany (NY), will headline his third Vertex card in the 8-round, main event (non-title fight) against Colombian veteran Daulis Prescott (32-14, 24 KOs).

Prescott fought Nicholas Walters for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Featherweight World title in 2012. He is the younger brother of Breidis Prescott, who shocked the boxing world in 2008, when he knocked out 2004 Olympic silver medalist and future 3-time World champion Amir Khan in the opening round.

In the co-feature event, undefeated welterweight prospect James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 6 KOs), of Mansfield (MA), faces Floridian Andre Byrd (8-11-2, 1 KO) in Perella’s first scheduled 8-round bout.

Perella, 29, was a standout USA Boxing amateur as a 4-time USA New England and 4-time New England Golden Gloves champion.

Another hot, undefeated prospect, Weymouth (MA) boxer Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (8-0, 8 KOs), goes for his 9^th win with his 9^th KO in a 6-round Special Super Welterweight Attraction against his Mexican opponent, Danny “Venado” Flores (15-25-1, 8 KOs). Hogan is the reigning New Hampshire super welterweight champion, as well as a 2019 New England Golden Gloves gold medalist.

In four 6-rounders, New Bedford (MA) middleweight Drew “Tomahawk” Dwelly (3-0-2, 3 KOs) faces Ginno Montoya (0-6), Springfield (MA) super lightweight super lightweight Eric “Gladiator” Goff (4-0, 3 KOs)) throws down with . Austin Reed Ward (0-9), and undefeated Colorado super middleweight “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (9-0, 5 KOs), the ABF American West champion, has been added to the card versus David Rohn (0-9-1).

Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole moved to Friday’s DAZN show in Manchester, NH

Irish light heavyweight prospect Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (1-0, 1 KO) was originally scheduled to fight on this Saturday’s Vertex show, but he was moved to Friday (Nov. 19) evening’s Andrade-Quigley card, streaming live on DAZN from SHNU Arena (former Verizon Center) in Manchester New Hampshire.

The 23-year-old O’Toole (1-0, 1 KO), fighting out of Galway, Ireland, won his pro debut this past September 25^th on a Vertex show at Moseley’s in which he knocked down Francisco Ariri Neto three times for a spectacular first-round knockout. O’Toole is matched against Texan Mark Malone (1-0) this Friday in a 4-round bout.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard in 4-round matches are Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, vs. Ecuadorian Ronny Arana (0-2), Malden (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Deshawn Kennedy (0-4), Boston welterweight James Murrin (1-0) vs. pro-debuting Miguel Valencia, of Worcester (MA), Kansas City (KS) super lightweight Marcus Davidson (1-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Marlon Hardnick, and Salem’s (MA) pro-debuting welterweight Kenny Larson vs. Seigenald Daley, Jr. (0-1).

Card is subject to change.

Tickets are on sale for $150.00 (ringside), $65.00 (general admission), $50.00 (standing room) and $2000.00 for a table of 10. To purchase tickets, go online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vertex-promotions-fall-brawl-tickets-192621806007, or contact any of the competing fighters. Limited tickets may be available fight night at the door.

Doors will open at 7 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

CLARESSA SHIELDS RETURNS TO SHOWTIME® VYING TO BECOME FIRST UNDISPUTED WORLD CHAMPION IN TWO DIVISIONS IN FOUR-BELT ERA

March 15, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

Shields To Face IBF Super Welterweight Champion Marie-Eve Dicaire With All Four Major Belts On The Line In 154-Pound Unification Bout

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, May 9 At 9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT

NEW YORK – March 11, 2020 – Undefeated three-division world champion Claressa Shields will attempt to become the first boxer in the four-belt era to become an undisputed world champion in two weight divisions when she faces unbeaten IBF Super Welterweight Champion Marie-Eve Dicaire in a 154-pound unification bout on Saturday, May 9, live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Shields’ hometown of Flint, Mich.

The winner of the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION main event will walk away with Shields’ WBC and WBO titles, Dicaire’s IBF belt, and the WBA (Super) crown. This is the first time in its 99-year history that the WBA has awarded a Super Champion belt to a female boxer.

Tickets for the Salita Promotions event start at $35 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center box office.

“I can’t wait to make history again on May 9,” said Shields. “Fighting in Flint in front of all my fans has been a dream of mine since turning pro. Having the opportunity to make history by fighting for the undisputed title in a second weight division is something I’m very proud of. Fighting against undefeated IBF 154-pound champion Marie-Eve Dicaire continues my quest to fight the very best in women’s boxing. And headlining on SHOWTIME again will continue my goal to lift women’s boxing to new heights. I’m going to give Flint and fight fans all over the world a night to remember on May 9!”

“I am very excited for this opportunity and it is an honor to face an opponent like Claressa Shields,” said Dicaire. “I am thankful to my promoter Yvon Michel and everyone involved in making this possible. For me, this is a dream come true. I will be prepared the best I can be and I am ready to leave everything in the ring to win the fight!”

In the four-belt era, only seven fighters have been undisputed in one division, including Shields, Katie Taylor, Cecilia Braekhus, Bernard Hopkins, Jermain Taylor, Terence Crawford, and Oleksandr Usyk.

On January 10 in Atlantic City, N.J., Shields made history by claiming the WBC and WBO 154-pound world championships with a dominating unanimous decision over Ivana Habazin. Shields became the fastest fighter in history, male or female, to win world titles in three different weight divisions, surpassing the records of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Kosei Tanaka, who both accomplished the feat in 12 fights.

The 24-year-old Shields (10-0, 2 KOs) overpowered Habazin from the opening bell, utilizing a strong jab and a steady diet of body shots that left the Croatian mostly in defensive mode throughout the 10-round fight. In the sixth round, a series of body shots forced Habazin to take a knee in the first knockdown of her career.

“SHOWTIME has a long history of featuring the best in women’s combat sports, whether it was with Gina Carrano, Cris Cyborg and Ronda Rousey in MMA, or Laila Ali and Christy Martin in boxing,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION. “More recently, we have shown Claressa Shields, Christina Hammer, Lightweight Champion Katie Taylor and seven-division champion Amanda Serrano. Shields vs. Dicaire will be our 12th women’s boxing event since 2017. Claressa’s bout with Dicaire represents another historic battle of unbeatens and attempt for another ‘first’ on SHOWTIME as Claressa looks to become undisputed in two weight classes.”

“I am excited to bring a historic night of boxing to fans in Flint at the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center and to those watching on SHOWTIME,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “In Claressa Shields and Marie-Eve Dicaire, we have the two best junior middleweights in the world and two undefeated champions fighting for the undisputed world championship. In addition to her already historic list of firsts, if victorious, Claressa will become the first two-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era. It will be a triumphant night in Flint on May 9.”

After becoming the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win two consecutive Olympic Gold Medals, Shields turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and headlined the first women’s boxing main event in premium cable television history in just her second professional fight in 2017. Shields, who will be headlining for the seventh time on SHOWTIME, now has her sights on making even more history.

“Claressa Shields continues to be a beacon of light and a trailblazer for women’s boxing, women’s sports, and boxing overall,” said Mark Taffet, Shields’ manager. “Being the only American to win back-to-back Olympic Gold in boxing, having won world titles in three weight divisions faster than any man or woman in boxing history, and now having the chance to be the first person – man or woman – to be an undisputed champion in two weight divisions in the four-belt era, Claressa will continue to add to her list of legendary, unprecedented and history-making accomplishments come May 9. I’m proud to be a part of her journey.”

The 33-year-old Dicaire (17-0) is from Saint-Eustache, Quebec, Canada, and started karate at the age of six. She worked her way up through the ranks until she obtained her black belt. After winning five world championship titles, Dicaire turned her attention to boxing and won the IBF Super Welterweight World Championship belt in December 2018 dethroning by decision the Uruguayan Chris Namus at the Quebec City Videotron Center. In her last fight in November of 2019, Dicaire defended her title for the third time beating experienced Venezuelan Ogleidis Suarez by unanimous decision. Dicaire will be fighting outside of the province of Quebec for the first time on May 9 and will be looking to score the upset victory in front of Shields’ hometown fans.

“Marie-Eve Dicaire against Claressa Shields, a battle of two undefeated champions for all the titles – you can’t get a better match in boxing,” said Yvon Michel, Dicaire’s promoter, President of GYM. “We have great respect and admiration for all Shields has accomplished but there is no doubt Marie-Eve is the most skilled, strong and dedicated opponent Claressa has faced. We are very confident that all the belts will come back to Canada with us. Thanks to Salita Promotions and SHOWTIME for the opportunity. Marie-Eve Dicaire will provide a great fight for the fans and viewers.”

Barry Tompkins will call the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports. Follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

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Daniel Roman Seeks Immediate Rematch with Murodjon Akhmadaliev

February 8, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

**LOS ANGELES, CA (February 6, 2020)** – A week ago, at the Meridian Island Gardens Arena in Miami, FL, **Daniel “The Baby Face Assassin” Roman** (27-3-1, 10 KOs), valiantly relinquished his two super bantamweight word titles (WBA / IBF), losing a hard-fought split decision to **Murodjon Akhmadaliev** (8-0, 6 KOs). Roman showed true grit in the loss and is now vehemently campaigning for an immediate rematch.

“It was a close fight and I take my hat off to Akhmadaliev for being a true warrior,” said Roman, who is promoted by **Thompson Boxing Promotions and Matchroom Boxing**. “I want a rematch because I think I won the fight. I believe I deserve to get that opportunity because I left it all in the ring. I know Akhmadaliev has the heart of a champion, and I believe he’ll want a to face me once more to settle the score between us.”

“Daniel Roman is the embodiment of how a prize fighter should carry themselves inside and outside of the ring,” said **Eddie Gonzalez**, Roman’s manager and trainer. “The fight was a split decision and if anyone deserves another shot, it’s Daniel.”

“We are in the process of requesting the rematch and we hope that the WBA and IBF realize that Danny is a credit to the sport of boxing,” said **Alex Camponovo**, Vice President and matchmaker for Thompson Boxing. “The fight was razor sharp close and I personally think Danny edged it out; now we need to wait and trust that Daniel Roman will be granted the rematch he is seeking and deserves.”

“Its moments like these where a true champion shows his heart by working his way back to the top,” Roman concluded. “There is no doubt in my mind that I’ll once again be a world champion when that opportunity presents itself. My promoters and management team are the best, I know they will get it done. I’m going to do everything in my power to get my world titles back.”

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

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

January 6, 2020 FNU47 Leave a comment

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

Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

boxing, Showtime, Showtime Boxing, women's boxing

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

December 15, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Fight News Unlimited

Tag Archives: WBA

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Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez fights back against Dmitry Bivol’s claim of turning down a title fight

Top Northeast boxers to be showcased this Saturday night on “Fall Brawl” card at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, MA

CLARESSA SHIELDS RETURNS TO SHOWTIME® VYING TO BECOME FIRST UNDISPUTED WORLD CHAMPION IN TWO DIVISIONS IN FOUR-BELT ERA

Daniel Roman Seeks Immediate Rematch with Murodjon Akhmadaliev

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

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

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