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THIS SPECTACULAR FIGHTING EVENT IS DEDICATED TO THE HONOR OF THE LIFE & LEGACY OF THE LATE GREAT JOSE SULAIMAN

IN THE SPIRIT OF FIGHTING FOR WORLD PEACE

BRONER VS. COBBS,

MIKAELJAN VS. ROZICKI

ON FRIDAY, JUNE 7 AT SEMINOLE

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (April 26, 2024)—Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King and Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory present an exciting evening of first-class boxing featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs) and Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) on Friday, June 7^th at the beautiful Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

The long anticipated featured fight of the night will see Cincinnati’s Adrien Broner stepping into the ring against former NABF Welterweight Champion Blair Cobbs. This high-stakes matchup marks Cobbs’ return to the ring for the first time in nearly two years, facing off against the highly decorated Broner as they fight for the WBC “People’s Championship”.

On the heels of an impressive knockout victory, newly crowned WBC Cruiserweight Champion Norair “The Dark Horse” Mikaeljan (27-2 with 12 KOs) aims to defend his title for the first time against Canada’s hard-hitting Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1 with 19 KOs).

In addition, Paterson, NJ’s Ian “The Young General” Green (18-2 with 12 KOs) will be defending his WBA Continental USA Middleweight title. The fan-favorite Green enters this bout on the strength of six straight victories.

In addition to the above three championship fights, a heavyweight feature fight is set as

Cassius Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) of New London, CT takes on Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (22-1-2, 16 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV.

“This spectacular fighting event is dedicated to the honor of the life and legacy of the late great Jose Sulaiman in the spirit of world peace,” said promoter Don King. “Jose was at the forefront of always putting on great fights and we plan to honor him with this great card.”

“I want to thank Mauricio Sulaiman and Don King for this great opportunity for Ryan Rozicki,” said Dan Otter, promoter for Rozicki.    “Rozicki won’t disappoint boxing fans in his quest for a title.”

WBA NABA Light Heavyweight Champion Ahmed “The American Pharoah” Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs) will defend his title and Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira (21-2, 16 KOs) of Miami, FL will be featured in a super middleweight attraction. NABA Welterweight Champion Tresean “Trigger” Wiggins (16-5-3, 9 KOs) of Newburgh, New York will defend his title.  All opponents are to be announced.

Cruiserweight sensation Yuniel “The KO Doctor” Dorticos (26-2, 24 KOs) from Cuba and young Cuban middleweight rising star Yoenlis Feliciano “Yoyo” Hernandez (3-0) will also be featured on the boxing card. 

Rising star, hometown sensation De’von Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will meet Travis Floyd of Douglasville, GA.

Ticket prices will be announced soon.

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Integrity Fighter Management Presents a Big Night of Professional Boxing This Saturday, April 27th at The Hollywood Casino at the Meadows in Washington PA

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

WASHINGTON, PA (April 26, 2024) — This Saturday at The Hollywood Casino at the Meadows in Washington, PA, Integrity Fighter Management presents a big night of boxing.

Pittsburgh based Ukrainian and former NABA Gold and Pennsylvania cruiserweight champion Lyubomyr “The Demolition Man” Pinchuk (14-4-2, 8 KO) takes on Andrew Satterfiel (7-7-1, 4 KOs) of Parkersburgh, WV for the ABO Heavyweight Title (Appalachian Boxing Organization) in an eight round heavyweight bout.

Fan Favorite Joey Turk (4-1-1, 1 KO) of Pittsburg faces pro debut Skyler Mauller from Newark Ohio. Mauller is 2-0 in pro MMA in a four-round heavyweight bout.

6’7″ Brian “Big Beauty” Mowry (1-0, 1 KO) of Butler, PA will be in against ) 6’5 police officer Daniel Fry (0-2) from Lebanon OH. in a four-round heavyweight bout.

Steve Cunningham Jr (2-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh will face an opponent to be named in a four-round middleweight bout.

In a matchup of undefeated fighters, Ivan Dancha (3-0, 3 KOs) of Lviv, Ukraine will take on Jerome “Thoroughbred” Baxter (3-0, 1 KO) of Pittsburgh in a six round junior Middleweight contest. Dancha had amateur wins over upcoming WBO title challenger Denis Berinchyk, Delante Johnson, and Mger Hovhannisyan. He has stopped all 3 of his opponents in the first round in the professional ranks.

southpaw Rosalindo Morales (9-1, 2 KOs) of Elwood City, PA returns to action against Marcelo Williams (4-22-1, 1 KO) of Orlando, Florida via Brazil in a six-round junior lightweight contest.

Teddy Mrkonja (2-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh takes on Tyler Pacheco (1-7) from Abilene TX in a four-round lightweight contest.

Tickets can be purchased at the following Link.

https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/16006074C5E165D4 

The fights will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com

__________Ryan Garcia Captures upset win over Devin Haney at the Brooklyn’s Barclays Center

But does not capture Haney’s WBC junior welterweight title because of coming in 33.2 pounds overweight

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

NEW YORK – Among the best statements made about the sport of boxing is that once the bell sounds one is entering a theater of the unexpected.

Boxing is not like any other sport. It is one where one single punch can change the course and outcome of a prize fight.

All one has to do is look at Mike Tyson’s first loss to James Buster Dougla. There were very few people that even bet against the ferocious Tyson. Well, after Tyson was counted out, millions wished they had.

The same goes for Ryan Garcia’s challenge of previously unbeaten Devin Haney’s junior welter title.

Although Garcia carelessly entered the bout 3.2 pounds overweight, thereby making the fight a non-title event, Garcia (25-1, 20 KOs) never let it get to him. He even actually paid Haney $1.5 million going into the bout due to a bet he they made with each other whereby Garcia would pay the champion $500,000 for every pound he weighed in at above 140. He also should have paid the crowd since they were somewhat cheated at no longer seeing a world championship bout.

Luckily for the fans at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center – they nevertheless witnessed a wonderful fight between two great fighters. And luckily for Garcia, he not only brought the extra weight into the bout, but he also packed along with him a blazing, blood curdling left hook. It was Garcia’s potent left hook that would ultimately spell doom to the champion and his followers.

Before the bout ended, Garcia would smash Haney to the canvas three times in rounds 7, 10, and 11, eventually securing a majority decision on the judges’ scorecards.

Although one judge surprisingly tabbed the bout an even 112-112, he was overruled by the other two judges who scored the bout 114-110 and 115-109, respectively, for Garcia, though Haney still held on to his WBC junior welterweight title due to Garcia’s weight problem.

From the sound of the bell for round one, Garcia threw the first gauntlet by banging Haney with a left hook startled and shook him to his core.

Like the esteemed fighter that he is, Haney (31-1, 15 KOs) shook it off and began boxing Garcia with swift jabs and straight right hands.

Besides skillfully boxing Garcia, in round three Haney appeared to put Garcia just a bit south of Queer Street after scoring with a jolting right to the jaw. Unfortunately, though he tried, the champion could not put the finishing punches together to end the bout early.

Then came round seven.

Garcia saw a quick opening and nailed Haney with a terrific left hook that dropped him hard and fast to the canvas. It was the first time that Haney had ever been dropped as a professional.

Unfortunately for him, it would not be his last.

“He caught me early when I was sleeping on him,” revealed Haney after the bout. “He caught me by surprise. I fell asleep on the left hook.”

Garcia attempted to follow up his advantage in round four, but Haney was able to ward him off with some slick boxing moves. By the round’s end the champion’s face was swollen and he was bleeding from the mouth.

Still Haney fought on and put on a pretty decent boxing clinic, though Garcia was able to avoid the punches with some sharp shoulder rolls and foot movement.

Though the fight was starting to look closer Garcia exploded with two more left hook howitzer type punches that cradled Haney the canvas in rounds 10 and 111, thereby securing himself a loss on the scorecards.

After the bout, a regal Haney declared he wanted a rematch – “I gave him a shot. It’s only right he gives me a shot back.”

Time will tell, though with Garcia’s inability to make weight it seems like he may have to drift up to the welterweight division, while Haney will most likely square once more against Vasul Lomachenko whom he beat for the undisputed lightweight championship in 2023.

On a final note, though Garcia had to hand over $1.5 million to Haney due to coming into the fight overweight, he won it all back and more by betting $2 million on himself at 6-1 odds, and winning $12 million in the process along with the millions he is expected to receive once the pay-per-view numbers come in. Overall, it would turn out to be the best night of his life.

Photo by Cris Esqueda/Golden Boy/Getty Images 

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PHILADELPHIA (April 26, 2024)–Former world title challenger looked spectacular in taking out Ismael Villareal in round three of a scheduled 10-round bout as part of the Overtime Junior Middleweight Tournament in Atlanta.

The bout, which was streamed live on DAZN saw Adams land solid shots throughout the contest as they were short and compact.

In round three, Adams landed a perfect left hook to the body that sent Villareal down for the count at 2:59.

Adams of Watts, California advances in the tournament as his record ascends to 24-3 with 16 knockouts.

Adams will now take on undefeated Francisco Veron (14-0-1, 10 KOs) on a date to be announced.

“Brandon showed that he is a force to be reckoned with at junior middleweight. He showed tremendous power and we look forward to the next fight in the tournament,” said Artie Pelullo of Banner Promotions.

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Around the globe with Per-Ake

European Boxing Round-Up 

Story by Per-Ake Persson

Berlin, Germany. The second Agon Sports show in a week took place at the Agon Sportspark with Agon TV streaming it live on April 13.

In the main event this time heavyweights Granit Shala (15-1) and Oleksandr Zakhozyi (19-0) clashed for the vacant EBU title, and it ended in the second round with Shala floored twice and stopped. The 6 ft. 9 in.  Ukrainian giant was too big for Granit, who made the mistake of trying to trade with his opponent. 

In the co-main event middleweight Alexander Pavlov (20-3) stopped Thomas Piccirillo (13-1-4) in the first round to win the IBF I-C title. Piccirillo was caught against the ropes and stayed there until he was floored. He got up but was so wobbly the contest was abruptly stopped.

On the undercard former IBF middleweight champ Vincenzo Gualtieri (21-1-1) returned to action in his first fight since losing the title to Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and won a close call over Italian Joshua Nmomah (13-3) over eight rounds.

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April 13 – Malmoe, Sweden. Swedish light heavyweight Oscar Ahlin (26-2) injured his left arm early in the fight against tough Czech southpaw Michal Ryba (20-11-2) but still managed to win a split ten-round decision.

Ryba was floored by a straight right in the sixth but got up and outworked the Swede in many rounds. The judges had it 97-93 and 96-94 for Ahlin and 96-94 Ryba. At the stake was the WBFed Intercontinental title.

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April 13 – Milano, Italy. The Art of Fighting staged a show at the Cloud Alliance with two fights for the WBC Mediterranean title on top.

At cruiserweight Jonathan Kogasso (11-0, 8 KO’s) stopped defending champion Goran Babic (8-2-2, 5 KO’s) from Sweden in the very first round. Babic was floored three times.

In the co-main event middleweight Dario Morello (23-1) retained the title with a close unanimous decision over Luca Chiancone (9-1-2). 

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Unbeaten Super Lightweight Kurt Scoby Signs Exclusive Glove Deal with ENGAGE

Story By Salvador Ramirez

NEW YORK, NY (April 22, 2024) – Undefeated super lightweight Kurt Scoby (13-0, 11 KOs) a power puncher hailing from the rough streets of New York City, has scored another victory outside the ring by securing an exclusive boxing glove deal with ENGAGE, the brainchild of former UFC two-time Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya and his respected manager Ash Belcastro.

Promoted by the renowned Lou DiBella’s DiBella Entertainment, Scoby’s latest venture marks a significant highlight in his promising career, aligning himself with a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in combat sports.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with Engage for this exclusive boxing glove deal,” stated Scoby expressing his excitement. “The feel and performance of their gloves are exactly what I’m looking for when I step in the ring, and I’m honored to be associated with such a world-class team led by Adesanya and Belcastro.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Kurt Scoby to the Engage family,” Ash Belcastro, co-founder of Engage, stated about the collaboration. “His dedication and talent align perfectly with our brand philosophy, and we look forward to supporting him on his journey to the top.”

“This partnership with Engage is something we’ve been diligently working on and I’m glad we are moving forward,” said Brandon Stump, President of CTB Athletics who manages Scoby. “Israel and Ash are great human beings, and we couldn’t be happier to be part of Engage family. We’re confident that together, we’ll achieve great success both inside and outside the ring.”

Scoby is scheduled to face Dakota Linger (13-6-3, 9 KOs) of Buckhannon, West Virginia, in a scheduled 8-round main event bout this Friday at the Overtime Elite Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. This fight, promoted by OTX (Overtime Boxing), will be televised live on DAZN.

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Julien Baptiste vs. Ricky Ford could steal the show

 “Granite Chin Box Off” to Headline

4-fighter, 1-night super middleweight tournament

May 11, “Rumble at the Rink” at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, MA

QUINCY, Mass. (April 15, 2024) – A title fight between USBF Middleweight Champion Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (6-4, 3 KOs) and Ricky Ford (5-1-2, 3 KOs) could very well steal the show on May 11^th as Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) presents “Rumble at the Rink” at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Baptiste vs. Ford has all the makings for a potential “Fight of the Night,” matching a pair of New England 160-pounders who promise to have fans standing and yelling from the opening bell until the eventual end.

“What a fight this is going to be,” GCP president Chris Traietti predicted. “I knew all along I wanted to get Julien on this show and after competing at Madison Square Garden, I didn’t want to take a step back and do a ‘fluff’ fight. I wanted to challenge Julien and see what he has learned from that experience. I reached out to Ricky ,and he jumped on the chance. Ricky looked way better than I expected back in February in Bridgewater, you can tell while he might have been inactive competing, it was obvious he stayed in the gym. This fight alone will be worth the price of admission.”

Baptiste, fighting out of Woburn (MA), is coming off a solid fight at Madison Square Garden Theater, in which he lost a six-round decision to undefeated Isaah Flaherty (7-0, 3 KOs).

“I learned that I had a lot more in the tank than I had thought,” Baptiste said. “It was scheduled for eight rounds, but it was changed to six, but I had trained to fight eight. He won the fight within the limits, credit to Isaah. It was a great fight and I felt that I was turning things around, but that’s been my Achilles heel, I didn’t let loose until it was late.”

The reigning Massachusetts Middleweight Champion in addition to wearing the USBF crown, Baptiste respects Ford and is preparing for a memorable fight, which could catapult him into another high-impact fight like he recently had in MSG.

“It’s going to be a good fight,” he predicted. “He’s a good opponent. We both fought Ryan Clark in the amateurs, and each went 1-1. I wasn’t there live, but he fought Travis Gambardella to a draw when I was still an amateur, and I watched it afterwards. I’m sure that he’s going to bring it. He was out the past few years, but I do respect him as a game fighter, and for stepping up to fight me. He’s a great technical fighter who keeps distance and knows how to box.”

Fighting out of Claremont (NH), Ford was a 2012 New England Golden Gloves silver medalist who was inactive from late 2019 to his ring return this past February, when he knocked out Erick Matheus Alves in round three. After the fight, in the middle of the ring, Clark dropped to one knee and proposed marriage to his longtime girlfriend, Katie, who also boxed. Ford was undecided in terms of retiring or continuing to fight, explaining at the time that he’d likely fight again if the offer was good enough.

“There was a lot of emotion in my last fight, and I did look good,” Ford remembered. “People thought I was away from boxing for years, but I was always in the gym, and I do love boxing. I took time off because I have a family with kids, and a good job. I met Katie through boxing, and I thought my last fight was the perfect way to propose, because boxing is how it all started for us. I was out of the ring 4 ½ years and I knew it wasn’t going to be easy shaking off the rust. Nobody has ever pushed me to reach my full potential. I thought my last fight was a good way to end my career, but Chris (Traietti) called and asked if I’d fight Julien for his title. Let’s see how it goes, If I win, I’ll defend my title, and if it ends in a draw, we’ll have to do it again. This is boxing and one punch can change everything.”

Ford noted that he’s a relatively small middleweight who should really be fighting at junior middleweight or even welterweight. He’s excited to fight Baptiste and believes they may steal the show.

“It’s going to be one of those fights,” Ricky concluded. We have two different styles. He boxes more than me. I’ll give him that and in power, but I have better hand speed. I have a lot more to show to people who haven’t seen it in me, and a lot have forgotten that I had a lot of amateur fights. I was a four-time Northern New England champion and runner-up at the 2015 Ringside Tournament in Kansas. I’ve seen Julien fight and I respect him. I took the fight and I’m stepping up. He’s the perfect guy for me to fight because we both come forward. Right now, I’m at my strongest point.”

In an equally compelling match. undefeated Irish boxer Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (9-0, 6 KOs) meets dangerous Russell Kimber (2-1, 1 KO) in a six-round bout for the vacant Massachusetts Light Heavyweight Championship.

The innovative one-night tournament, “Granite Chin Box Off,” is the event headliner that features a quartet of New England super middleweight fighters – Lynn’s (MA) James “Pitbull” Perkins (13-1-1, 9 KOs), Swansea’s (MA) Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (5-3, 2 KOs), Dorchester’s (MA) Bernard Joseph (6-1, 4 KOs), and Barrington’s (ME) Ryan Clark (4-5, 2 KOs) – who will  be matched (in a blind draw at the weigh in) in three-round bouts (4^th round of sudden death if needed in case of a draw) early in the evening with the two winners advancing to the five-round main event (6^th round of sudden death in the event of a draw) to determine the inaugural champion.

Additional matches will soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

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Ascending Irish welterweight Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan

Not looking past Lewis Ritson

May 25^th on DAZN from Leeds, UK

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

NEW YORK (April 15, 2024) –Undefeated Irishman Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs), the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Champion, is fully focusing on his next opponent, former British lightweight champion Lewis “Sandman” Ritson (23-3, 13 KOs), and not his rumored showdown later this year with Northern Ireland’s Lewis “The Croc” Crocker (19-0, 11 KOs).

Donovan vs. Ritson is the 10-round co-featured event May 25^th on a Matchroom Boxing card, headlined by a domestic clash between UK super lightweights Josh Taylor (19-1) and Jack Catterall (28-1), to be streamed on DAZN live from First Direct Arena in Leeds, United Kingdom.

The 25-year-old Donovan, who is now ranked No. 11 in the world by the World Boxing Association (WBA), will defend his title belt for the second time after a TKO win over William Andres Herrera (15-2) in his last fight this past January 27.

Donovan vs. Crocker has been percolating and if both fighters continue winning it will be one of the most anticipated 2024 fights in Ireland and the UK. The key is for both fighters to continue winning without a hiccup. Donovan understands that he needs to avoid any distractions as he prepares to fight Ritson, especially with the possibility of a future fight against Crocker as it continues to build exponentially into an epic super-fight.

“I do not look past any opponent,” Donovan said. “I know Lewis Ritson is a really good opponent for me at this stage of my career. I’m really excited to be ranked No. 11 in the world and I’m checking all the boxes in training to be ready for any fighter, Lewis first, and then we can move on to beating whoever my managers and promoter put in front of me. Ritson is a very good opponent for me. This is the fight I need, the challenge that will prepare me for bigger fights, especially against Crocker, or anyone else. For me, it doesn’t matter who the opponent is, I will be ready mentally and physically, and just be me.

“This is the biggest test of my career, every fight from now is like my world title fight. I believe he will throw caution to the wind early in the fight, but I will match him for everything he does, and I’m going into the ring to win every battle, every moment, every round, and every fight.”

Ritson, also a former WBA Inter-Continental Super Lightweight Champion, lost his last fight on March 4^th, stopped by a body shot from Ohara Davies (24-2) in the ninth round. Donovan has finished-off his last two opponents with crushing liver punches.

“Under the trusted eye of trainer and co-manager, Andy Lee, I am confident Paddy will be primed and ready to showcase his boxing skills and punching power on May 25^th,” commented NYC-based attorney Keith Sullivan, Donovan’s co-manager. “This is Paddy’s breakout year.  I don’t envy anyone we match him against, because he’s on a mission to fight for a world title.  He’s hungry, and he’s earned it, but first he has to handle business in the ring with a very formidable Ritson.”

Ideally, Paddy Donovan would like to put “Sandman” Ritson to sleep, then and only then, look toward Crocker, or whomever else stands in his path to a world title.

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DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT’S BROADWAY BOXING MAKES ITS PHILADELPHIA DEBUT NEXT WEEK AT THE 2300 ARENA, THURSDAY, APRIL 18

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

PHILADELPHIA, PA (April 15, 2024) – In one week, DiBella Entertainment (DBE) will debut its Broadway Boxing series in Philadelphia, PA, on Thursday, April 18. The stacked card will feature some of the city’s top prospects, as DBE brings the 121st edition of the longest-running grassroots boxing series to the 2300 Arena.

Tickets for Broadway Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased via www.2300arena.com (click HERE) or by calling (267) 273-0945. Tickets are priced at $150.00 for VIP Ringside, $125.00 Premium Ringside, $100 Ringside, and $60 for General Admission seating. The 2300 Arena is located at 2300 S Swanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 PM ET, with the first bout scheduled for 7:30 PM ET.

Junior featherweight Romuel “Cuco” Cruz (10-0-1, 4 KOs) will take on Robin Ellis (6-3, 5 KOs), of Las Vegas, Nevada, in a six-round bout.

Cruz, 30, was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, but moved to Philadelphia, PA, as a toddler. He began boxing as a teenager and has been under the tutelage of world championship trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards since his pro debut in December 2017. He is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Edwards will also be in the corner of six-foot-tall middleweight southpaw Erron “JYD” Peterson (5-0-1, 4 KOs). The 28-year-old Peterson will take on Raheem Davis (1-2), of Morgantown, West Virginia, in a four-round bout.

Peterson was an All-City linebacker in high school before turning his full attention to boxing at the age of 21. Following a brief-but-successful amateur campaign, Peterson, managed by his father Salah, turned pro in July 2022.

Previously announced, heavyweight contender “Gentleman” George Arias (18-1, 7 KOs), of Bronx, New York, battles unbeaten Skylar Lacy (8-0-1, 6 KOs), of Indianapolis, Indiana, in an eight-round bout.

The 32-year-old Arias has already defeated seven previously unbeaten opponents, including world-ranked Cassius Chaney and Alante Green. Arias suffered his lone blemish at the hands of highly regarded Jared Anderson on April 8, 2023, in Newark, New Jersey.

Lacy, 29, fought to a spirited draw with former National amateur champion, six-foot-nine Antonio Mireles. In his last outing, Lacy stopped Hector Conrado in two rounds on March 16, in Mexico.

The card will also feature a high-powered heavyweight clash between Cleveland’s Roney Hines and Johnson City, Tennessee, native Robert Hall Jr., scheduled for eight rounds. The fight is a step-up for Hines (13-0-1, 8 KOs), who trains with veteran trainer Eric Brown in Los Angeles and is co-managed by Robert Diaz and Sheer Sports. He is coming off of a unanimous decision win against Jonathan Gruber last November. The 28-year-old Hines had an extensive amateur career that included over 90 fights and a win at the National Golden Gloves, before making his professional debut in July 2018. Hall Jr. (14-2, 11 KOs), a former WBC USNBC titlist, last entered the ring in September when he faced contender Jerry Forrest, losing a unanimous decision over eight rounds.

Jamaican super welterweight southpaw Kestna “Hardball” Davis (5-0), based out of Vauxhall, New Jersey, will box in a four-round bout facing Abdalla Nagy (1-0). He is advised by former undisputed heavyweight world champion Lennox Lewis. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Davis moved to the U.S. in 2018. Davis has been mentored by the former world champion since they met in July 2016 through the Lennox Lewis League of Champions Foundation. Nagy, born in Egypt and now based out of Albuquerque, New Mexico, made his pro debut last December, earning a four-round unanimous decision against Kijonti Davis.

Also seeing action in an eight-round bout will be undefeated bantamweight Wilver Hernandez. Hernandez, 21, of Kansas City, Kansas, is 8-0, with two knockouts. He will take on Filipino Merlito Sabillo, who is based out of Los Angeles, CA.

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Undefeated Junior Welterweight Helmand Alekozai challenges for WBC Middle East title in Dubai

Helmand Alekozai will face Digari Mahesh from India on April 19, manager Trifon Petrov confirmed this morning. The eight-round bout will be for the vacant WBC Middle East title. 

The fight will take place in La Perle, Dubai, United Arab Emirates as part of a big event promoted by Rahul Suri. 

Alekozai (12-0, 5 knockouts) who resides in Toronto, Canada, last fought on January 27th in Dubai, defeating Ibrahim Makubi (10-1-2, 6 knockouts) via 5th round stoppage. In December of 2023, Alekozai knocked out previously unbeaten Alonso Ceja (12-0, 4 knockouts) in the 3rd round of their 8-round scheduled contest. 

Helmand Alekozai is building momentum after a near fatal car accident he suffered in November of 2021. He won 5 fights over the last 12 months since his comeback to boxing.

“I can’t wait to show the world on April 19th that I’m one of the best fighters in my weight class. Winning a WBC Regional title would allow me to enter the world ratings and put me another step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a World Champion,” said Alekozai.

Alekozai is what you call a true road warrior, having fought in 4 different continents and 6 different countries in his 12 fight career. 

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THREE ACTION-PACKED TITLE SHOWDOWNS HIGHLIGHT

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PBC PAY-PER-VIEW ON

PRIME VIDEO UNDERCARD SATURDAY, MAY 4 FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

Top Welterweight Mario Barrios Defends 147-Pound Title Against Hard-Hitting Fabian Maidana in Co-Main Event

All-Action Brandon Figueroa Puts Featherweight Title on the Line Against Former Champion Jessie Magdaleno

Undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis Duels Two-Time Olympian Gabriel Maestre

In Pay-Per-View Opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Canelo Promotions Presents Clash of Mexican Superstars

 As Pound-for-Pound Great Canelo Álvarez Duels

All-Action Star Jaime Munguía Headlining a

PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video

Blockbuster Pay-Per-View Card Also Available

Live on DAZN.com

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS – April 9, 2024 – Three high-stakes matchups featuring some of the sport’s most exciting fighters will round out a stacked pay-per-view lineup as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

“Saturday, May 4 will deliver a worthy pay-per-view undercard of toe-to-toe clashes leading up to the all-Mexico headlining clash between Canelo Álvarez and Jaime Munguia,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Cinco de Mayo weekend is a crown jewel in the boxing calendar, and with this jam-packed lineup of action fighters entering the ring at T-Mobile Arena, fans are in for non-stop entertainment once again on this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.”

**MARIO BARRIOS VS. FABIAN MAIDANA**

The 12-round co-main event will see Mario “El Azteca” Barrios make the first defense of his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentina’s Fabian “TNT” Maidana, the younger brother of legendary action fighter Marcos who will look to add to his family legacy in his first world title opportunity.

A former world champion at 140-pounds, Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing and stamped his place as a top 147-pounder by dropping Yordenis Ugas twice last September on his way to a unanimous decision. The 28-year-old hails from San Antonio, Texas and now trains in Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. He won a 140-pound world championship in September 2019, using his aggressive style to edge out Batyr Akhmedov and earn a unanimous decision. Barrios lost the super lightweight title in another action packed, highly competitive bout, as he was defeated by three-division and five-time world champion Gervonta Davis in June 2021.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ring for the co-main event of the biggest Mexican fight in history and during Cinco de Mayo weekend,” said Barrios. “Fabian Maidana is a tough warrior like me, so the fans are definitely in for an exciting fight. Defending my title is priority number one, and I’m going to do it with intelligence and bad intentions. Everyone knows that when I step into the ring, I leave it all in there. This will be no different. On May 4, the fans can expect a Mexico vs. Argentina war.”

The 31-year-old Maidana (22-2, 16 KOs) enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak, including three 2023 triumphs highlighted by a unanimous decision victory over Israel Lopez in November. A native of Margarita, Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana hopes to follow in the footsteps of his older brother and former two-division champion Marcos. He’s fought professionally since 2014, following up a strong amateur career by winning his first 16 pro fights. He will return to fight stateside for the first time since 2019, after spending much of his early career fighting in the U.S., including a 2018 knockout of former title challenger Andrey Klimov.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on this card against a great champion like Mario Barrios,” said Maidana. “We come to win and give our best to the mecca of boxing, Las Vegas. The world knows my brother beat Floyd Mayweather on Cinco de Mayo, and I plan to do the same against Barrios. I’m fighting for my people in Argentina, and I’m coming to win.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. JESSIE MAGDALENO**

The pay-per-view lineup will also feature the return of former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa as he defends his Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 12-round bout against the former 122-pound world champion Jessie Magdaleno.

The 27-year-old Figueroa (24-1-1, 18 KOs) most recently picked up his interim title in his last bout, beating former world champion Mark Magsayo via unanimous decision in a Fight of the Year candidate in March 2023. It was his second fight since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“I’ve been staying ready, just patiently waiting for my opportunity, and now I can’t wait to get back in the ring on May 4,” said Figueroa. “Magdaleno is a great fighter and he’s a former world champion for a reason. I know I have to be at my best. I’m just hungry to get back into the ring and keep boxing exciting with my fights and my fighting style.”

A Las Vegas-native, Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs) will look to rebound from a decision defeat in his last fight against current featherweight titlist Raymond Ford. Prior to the defeat, Magdaleno had put together four-straight victories since moving up to featherweight in 2019. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2016 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire, and successfully defended the title with a 2017 knockout of Adeilson Dos Santos. Magdaleno also comes from a boxing family, as his older brother Diego was a longtime contender, while his younger brother Marco also fought professionally. 

“This fight is everything for me,” said Magdaleno. “There are people who think I’m an underdog against Figueroa. But I’d remind those people of one thing…I was an underdog when I became world champion for the first time, and I’m ready to do it again. On May 4 you will hear ‘and the new!’”

**EIMANTAS STANIONIS VS. GABRIEL MAESTRE**

A come-forward technician, the undefeated Eimantas Stanionis will make the first defense of his WBA Welterweight Title when he takes on fellow unbeaten Gabriel Maestre in a 12-round showdown that opens up the pay-per-view card.

Representing his native Kaunas, Lithuania, Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) has made the most of the promise he showed when turning pro after fighting for his country at the 2016 Olympic games. The 29-year-old captured his interim belt in his most recent outing, defeating the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev via a hard-fought decision in April 2022. Stanionis blasted through a slew of veteran welterweights on his way up the ladder, including a knockout of Justin DeLoach and a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring, I feel like a kid in a candy store who gets to choose any kind of candy he wants,” said Stanionis. “This is especially exciting for me because I am a big fan of Canelo Álvarez. I love watching his fights and as a kid, I dreamed of fighting on Cinco de Mayo in front of all those great Mexican fans. It motivates me even more to give them a great fight. I know that Gabriel Maestre is tough and has power. We fought in the amateurs and I know it’s a great matchup of styles. I’m going to bring the action and so will he. You can definitely expect fireworks on May 4.”

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (6-0-1, 5 KOs) delivered a dominant display last August as he blasted out the then-unbeaten rising prospect Travon Marshall in round two. His pro career has followed an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. He made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw in March 2022 and defeating former two-division champion Devon Alexander in April 2023.

“I’ve wanted to fight Stanionis for years and get revenge from our amateur match,” said Maestre. “It was a tough close fight and I’m ready to face him again for another war. We are ready for a great fight and to leave the ring with my hand raised. May 4 will be a historic day for me and Venezuela.”

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“The Quest for the Best”

Bringing boxing back to the fans…

April 27, 2024 – Casino Miami Jai-Alai, Miami, FL

UNDEFEATED FEATHERWEIGHT MACHADO ADDED TO “QUEST FOR THE BEST” FIGHT CARD ON SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

MIAMI, FL (April 9, 2024)— One of the most exciting featherweights in the country, Neslan Machado, has been added to Don King’s “The Quest for the best” fight cards at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai, on Saturday, April 27.

Machado, who is a Cuban sensation out of Miami, FL, has put together a perfect 20-0 record with nine KOs. He will be fighting a 10-round special attraction in an evening featuring three championship bouts.

Fans will also get to see undefeated and exciting twin brothers out of Harrisburg, PA—the Perez brothers.

One of them, Antonio Perez, already has a belt that he will be defending in the WBC Int’l Lightweight Championship. Antonio is a perfect 9-0 with 5 KOs. His twin brother, Angel, is looking to eventually be a champion in his own right.  He also is 9-0 with 7 KOs and he will be featured in an eight-round welterweight attraction.

The Saturday night lineup for this highly anticipated event features some of the most formidable contenders in the sport.

WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Champion Ian Green (18-2, 12 KOs) has been a fan favorite at Casino Miami. The Paterson, NJ native aims to win his seventh straight fight as he takes on Roy Barringer (10-4, 6 KOs), a hard-hitting challenger from Toledo, OH.

Miami, FL’s own Ahmed Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs), who holds the NABA/NABF Light Heavyweight Championships, will show his explosive power as he takes on undefeated Sergio Jimenez (13-0-1, 11 KOs) from San Pedro, CA, in a showdown that promises fireworks from start to finish.

The third championship fight will feature WBC Int’l Lightweight Champion Antonio Perez (9-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA risks his title against Los Angeles’ Oscar Acevedo (9-1).

The evening of boxing also will feature four undercard fights.  DeVon Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will be fighting for the WBC Youth Intercontinental Super Lightweight championship. 

Antonio Perez’s twin brother, Angel Perez (9-0, 7 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA will be featured in an eight-round welterweight attraction. A 10-round bantamweight fight will feature Boynton Beach, FL sensation Lawrence Newton (16-0, 7 KOs) challenging Luis Tenorio (10-0, 8 KOs) of Tulua, Colombia and the final undercard fight is a six-round welterweight attraction will feature Semajay Thomas (11-1, 8 KOs) of Chicago, IL.

Tickets for this sensational evening of boxing are now on sale, starting at just $25. Don’t miss your chance to witness the action live at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai. Ringside tables are available for $1,500, while side floor seats can be purchased for $50. Floor ringside seats are priced at $100, and ringside seats are $300. Secure your seats now at www.playcasinomiami.com.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live on DonKing.com, FITE.TV, and ITUBE247.com, ensuring that fans worldwide can experience the thrill of “The Quest for the Best.”

Join us on Saturday, April 27, for an unforgettable night of championship boxing, presented by the one and only Don King. For more information and updates, visit www.donking.com.

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Atlantic City Boxing is Back!

NYC’s hottest club boxing series is coming May 11 to Tropicana Hotel/ Casino. It’s a stacked card. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster!

Story By Salvador Ramirez

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (April 9, 2024) — Boxing Insider Promotions is bringing boxing back to the Boardwalk at the Tropicana Hotel/Casino in Atlantic City. The date is Saturday, May 11, and begins at 7:30 PM in the Showroom.  This is the Atlantic City debut for the company, which has been promoting shows at the legendary Sony Hall in New York City.

Some of the participants include: 

Junior featherweight JOHN LEONARDO (10-1-1, 4 KO’s) of Manalapan Township, NJ will be in the eight-round main event. Leonardo was a decorated amateur, winning three New York Metro championships and a New Jersey Golden Gloves title. The 23-year-old, nicknamed “Bodyshot,” last fought back in August, when he won an eight-round decision over Dominique Griffin.

Junior middleweight JUSTIN FIGUEROA (8-0, 6 KO’s) is a 2017 graduate of Holy Spirit High School in Atlantic City, where he excelled in football and wrestling. But he was also an experienced amateur boxer, who holds a win over 2022 National Golden Gloves champ Nasheed Smith. He just fought on March 30 with a six-round decision win over Christian Aguirre in San Antonio. The charismatic Figueroa, who spent quite a bit of time as a lifeguard with the Atlantic City Beach Patrol, dances “The Worm” across the ring after his victories. 

Heavyweight prospect PRYCE TAYLOR (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn has a big upside. He only began boxing in 2016, but just three years later he made it to the semifinals of the National Golden Gloves. He was also runner-up in the U.S. Championships in 2021 and 2022. Taylor, who is involved with the Team Combat League, was last seen in action at Sony Hall on March 7, winning a four-round decision over Antonio Torres. He’ll be in another four-rounder on May 11. 

Middleweight JACOB SOLIS of New York (3-0, 3 KO’s), in a four-round fight, doubles as a trainer at Breadwinners Boxing in Manhattan. He is a huge fan favorite, taking a lot of female followers with him, and made his pro debut at Sony Hall last December with a sensational third-round KO of Tevin Terrance. 

Middleweight JUAN PIERRE VALENCIA makes his highly-anticipated pro debut in a four-rounder. A native of Ecuador who grew up in Spain, he now resides in Irvington, NJ. Valencia won the 2023 New Jersey Golden Gloves and then proceeded to reach the semifinals of the National Golden Gloves. He’s quick, powerful and a great prospect.

And stay tuned for future announcements. 

Boxing has not been seen at the Tropicana for seven years, so this is special for Atlantic City native Larry Goldberg (CEO of Boxing Insider Promotions), who is the most active promoter in New York City. He’s bringing his exciting series home. 

Tickets are priced at $60, $100, $150 and $200, and are available through TicketMaster (https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-05-11-2024/event/02006076BA7B700C).
 
This event will also stream live and free of charge at BoxingInsider.com

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Thomas O’Toole & Russ Kimber battle for Vacant Mass. Light Heavyweight Title

“Granite Chin Box Off” to Headline

4-fighter, 1-night super middleweight tournament

May 11, “Rumble at the Rink” at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, MA

Story By Alexander R. Rinaldi

QUINCY, Mass. (April 9, 2024)  – Undefeated Irish boxer Thomas “The Kid” O’Toole (9-0, 6 KOs) will take on dangerous Russell Kimber (2-1, 1 KO) in a six-round bout on May 4^th for the vacant Massachusetts Light Heavyweight title as part of a stacked “Rumble At The Rink” regional card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, Massachusetts.

“What a compliment this fight is to our inaugural ‘Granite Chin Box Off’,” GCP president Chris Traietti commented. “The plan with this show from the start was to stack it from the opening fight to the final of the tournament with fighters people want to see in fights people want to see them in, and this fight is the epitome of that. Thomas has been a fixture the last few years in the local boxing scene, and he is taking on a guy in Kimber who is no slouch. Kimber is the type of guy that if you take him lightly you are in for a bad night. Thomas comes from a solid amateur background and a great gym, so I don’t think he is going to make that error, but everyone in the building would be foolish to sleep on Russell Kimber. This is going to be a great co-feature!”

Now fighting out of Boston suburb Braintree (MA), the 26-year-old native of Galway (IRE) has been fighting in his second home of Boston for the past year, capturing the USBF Atlantic light heavyweight title last August, also in Quincy on a GCP card, with an opening round stoppage of Scott Lampert.

A celebrated Irish amateur boxer, who was the 2019 Irish National, is coming off a homecoming victory this past March 16^th in Galway, in which he won all eight rounds against Hussein Itaba (16-7-3, 11 KOs).

“I want to add this Massachusetts title and keep pushing,” the stylish southpaw said. “The plan is to have two big fights after this fight. He (Kimber) doesn’t have too many fights, but he has sparred with some of my mates. He’s pretty game and will fight coming forward, and that’s good for me.

“My fight in Galway was amazing, the best of my life, because it was my homecoming. But the Irish here have come out to support me and Boston is my second home. I had a great coach and good boxers in Galway, but I knew I needed to make a bit of a change. You can’t get good sparring there like I can here. So, I moved.”

O’Toole is grateful that he hooked up with his head trainer, Mark “Bazooka” DeLuca, who has a 30-4 (18 KOs) pro record as middleweight.

“I’m so happy I made the link with Mark DeLuca,” O’Toole noted. “I don’t think a lot of people know how good a coach he is. I have more of a pro style than I had before he started training me. He has shown me how to use range and stay composed. Mark has really developed me to control the ring and improve my ringmanship.”

Kimber (2-1, 1 KO), fighting out of Peabody (MA), has fighting in his blood. His father, Dick and uncle Tommy, respectively, were three and five-time world kickboxing champions. Russ owns Kimber Fitness, which was in Peabody and is relocating soon to nearby Salem (MA).

Kimber made his pro debut in 2017, taking a decision from Nathan Schulte, but he’s only fought twice since then, due to COVID-19 restrictions and several fights that failed to materialize.  

“I’m always training but I couldn’t get any fights,” Kimber explained. “I kept my weight down and took a fight last April in Florida against an undefeated local fighter (3-0 Mike Misa). After the fight, my opponent even said that the fight shouldn’t have been stopped, because I was blocking his punches. I really shouldn’t have lost that fight, but it was in Florida against a local fighter.”

“Fighting for the Massachusetts title is great. I don’t think he (O’Toole) fully understands what’s coming. I think a win will open up doors for me because I’ll be 3-1 and have a title. I’ve seen a few Granite Chin fighters with only six or seven fights getting the opportunity to fight at places like Madison Square Garden. I took this fight, and we’ll see what happens.”

The headliner is an innovative one-night tournament, “Granite Chin Box Off,” featuring a quartet of New England super middleweight fighters – Lynn’s (MA) James “Pitbull” Perkins (13-1-1, 9 KOs), Swansea’s (MA) Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (5-3, 2 KOs), Dorchester’s (MA) Bernard Joseph (6-1, 4 KOs), and Barrington’s (ME) Ryan Clark (4-5, 2 KOs) – who will  be matched (in a blind draw at the weigh in) in three-round bouts (4^th round of sudden death if needed in case of a draw) early in the evening with the two winners advancing to the five-round main event (6^th round of sudden death in the event of a draw) to determine the inaugural champion.

 Additional matches will soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

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STARLING “EL POLIC” CASTILLO

Super Lightweight Starling Castillo Eyes Top Ten Spot After Impressive Victory

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 9, 2024) – Super lightweight Starling Castillo (19-1-1, 13 KOs), hailing from the Dominican Republic and training in Las Vegas under the tutelage of world-renowned boxing coach Bob Santos, is setting his sights on the upper echelons of the division.  In his last bout that aired on ProBox TV on March 27th, a thrilling 10-round split decision victory over Jesus Saracho (13-2-1, 11 KOs), Castillo proved he has what it takes to compete at the next level.

Castillo’s victory over Saracho showcased his will to win, along with exceptional skill, determination, and resilience inside the ring. The hard-fought battle underlined Castillo’s status as a dangerous fighter within the super lightweight division.

“I want anyone in the top ten of any sanctioning body,” said Castillo as he discusses his next career move. “This win should put me in the mix, and I’m ready to take on the best the division has to offer.”

“Starling has shown tremendous growth in his training and it showed in this last fight,” said Santos, who believes this victory should land him a ranking in the top ten. “He’s ready for all the big names in the division. His victory over Saracho proves that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level, and we are going to work on getting him ranked with one of the major sanctioning organizations.”

Castillo’s journey to the top of the super lightweight division continues to gain momentum as he sets his sights on a top ten ranking.

“I’m hoping this victory will catapult me up the rankings,” concluded Castillo, who is promoted by Sampson Lewkowicz. “I have a great team that believes in me, and I know together we will do big things. I can’t wait to get back in the ring against another tough fighter. I’m ready to earn my way to a world title.”

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Toro heavyweight Dante Stone riding 15-fight win streak into first 10-round bout

April 12^th in Superior, Colorado

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (April 9, 2024) – Arizona heavyweight Dante Stone (15-1, 10 KOs) will be riding a 15-fight win streak into his first scheduled 10-round fight this Friday night (April 12) at Blue Sports Stable in Superior, Colorado.

The 29-year-old Stone will face Matthew “El Matador” McKinney (16-7-3, 12 KOs) in the main event on a show presented by Airtight Boxing in association with Toro Promotions.

Stone is coming off his best performance to date, in which he won a unanimous eight-round decision over his Toro Promotions stablemate Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-3-1, 17 KOs) last January 4^th at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. Stone dropped Flores, whose previous three career losses were all to world champions, in the eighth round.

Stone was introduced to boxing at the age of 10 by his father as a way to hang out together. His father, Damien Stone, who boxed and played football in his younger days. Stone went on to become a solid amateur boxer and, as he explained, because he turned out to be good at it, but like Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins, he also lost his pro debut.

“My opponent is a little, older and taller than me,” Stone said, “but I’m going into this fight seriously like I do every fight. My loss was a  wake-up call. I was out of shape and tired. I have the support of my coaches and that will never happen again.” 

Stone is part of Toro Promotions’ growing stable of promising heavyweights that also includes 2016 Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogova (6-0, 6 KOs), who is fighting in the April 12^th co-featured event, Flores (19-4-1, 17 KOs), and Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs), the cousin of infamously retired heavyweight contender Ike Ibeabuchi (20-0, 15 KOs).

“The more the merrier,” Stone added. “I like it that my promoter (Toro Promotions) has a lot of good heavyweights because I’ll have a lot of sparring partners. I always do my best and Toro has been helping me do that.

“In my current state, I’m taking it one fight at a time, but, if I’m offered a big shot this year, I’ll take it.”

First, though, he has to get past McKinney, who has won three fights in a row. 

Rogava meets Jesse Bryan (21-8-2, 16 KOs) in the eight-round co-featured event. Not only has Rogava won all six of his pro fights, but he’s also knocked out each of his opponents, needing only a total of eight rounds.

Born in Georgia, Rogava lived for several years in Ukraine until moving last year to Marina del Rei, California.  The 6’ 5”, 270-pound Rogava successfully transitioned to boxing from his world class Muay Thai and kickboxing career, highlighted by his three-time IFMA World title-winning performances in Muay Thai as an amateur, along with an ACB kickboxing crown.

Toro has one other fighter on the April 12^th card, 2016 Armenia Olympian Aram “Warrior” Avagyan (10-1-2, 4 KOs), who has been idle since his only loss on July 23, 2021, to 10-0 Martino Jules by way of an eight-round decision. Avagyan takes on 44-fight veteran Juan Santiago in a four-round bout.

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Angel Chavez Stays Undefeated with Impressive KO Victory Over Khainell Wheeler

Story By Leonard Carmichael

BETHLEHEM, PA (April 6, 2024) – Super middleweight rising star Angel Chavez (10-0, 8 KOs) continues his undefeated streak with a dominating performance against Khainell Wheeler (7-4, 6 KOs) of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. In his first 8-round bout, Chavez showcased his power in the ring, securing a second-round knockout victory.

The bout, held in Wheeler’s hometown, saw Chavez who is promoted by Amaury Piedra, of Boxlab Promotions, taking control from the outset. After a strategic first round, Chavez unleashed a powerful right uppercut followed by a precise left hook to the head, staggering Wheeler, forcing him to take a knee in round two. With Wheeler hurt, Chavez capitalized on the opportunity. Chavez followed with a relentless flurry of punches, ultimately forcing the referee to stop the fight in the middle of the round.

Reflecting on his victory, Chavez stated, “It feels incredible to come out victorious in Wheeler’s hometown. I felt confident in my abilities, and I’m grateful for the support of my fans and team. I wasn’t too happy that he didn’t honor his contract by coming in overweight, so I took it out on him. I had to punish him.”

Coach Bob Santos expressed his admiration for Chavez’s performance, stating, “Angel showed he is a force in this division. He had no hesitation in taking this fight after the guy came in way overweight, that says a lot about his mindset. This kid reminds me a lot of David Benavidez. His execution was flawless, and I couldn’t be prouder of his victory.”

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INTERNATIONAL BOXING HALL OF FAME SPRING FUNDRAISER AUCTION SET FOR APRIL 3 – 6

Your Chance to Win Boxing Memorabilia and Support the Hall of Fame

CANASTOTA, NY – APRIL 2, 2024 – The International Boxing Hall of Fame is delighted to announce its upcoming spring fundraiser auction, taking place from April 3rd to April 6th. This is a unique opportunity for boxing enthusiasts to both show their support for the Hall of Fame and acquire outstanding boxing memorabilia.

he auction features a remarkable selection of items, including boxing gloves signed by such stars as Mike Tyson, Miguel Cotto, Terence Crawford, Floyd Mayweather, “Sugar” Shane Mosley and Lucia Rijker. Additionally, there are magazines autographed by Bernard Hopkins, Roy Jones Jr., and Manny Pacquiao, among others. To view all 42 items up for auction, please visit www.ibhof.com.

Bidding officially commences on Wednesday, April 3rd, at 7:00 am (PST) / 10:00 am (EST) and will conclude on Saturday, April 6th, at 12:00 pm (PST) / 3:00 pm (EST). To participate in the bidding process, kindly contact the Hall of Fame at (315) 697.7095. For real-time bid updates, you may call during the bidding period. Bidders must increase their offers by increments of $20 or more.

“The Hall of Fame is excited to offer boxing fans the chance to own a unique collectible while also supporting our mission to honor the great sport of boxing,” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. “We are deeply appreciative of the support from the boxing stars who generously signed these autographed items.”

Following the conclusion of the auction, the Hall of Fame will promptly notify the top bidders. The item(s) won will be shipped to the respective winners, who have the option to pay upon notification or within a 10-day grace period. A $10 postage fee will be added to the total cost.

Connect with the International Boxing Hall of Fame through social media:

Facebook: @InternationalBoxingHallofFame

Instagram: @InternationalBoxingHallofFame

Twitter: @BoxingHall

Website: www.IBHOF.com

About the International Boxing Hall of Fame

The International Boxing Hall of Fame opened to the public in 1989 and is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the great sport of boxing. Located in Canastota, New York, it serves as a tribute to the world’s finest boxers and contributors to the sport, allowing boxing enthusiasts to appreciate and celebrate the rich history and tradition of boxing. The International Boxing Hall of Fame is located at Exit 34 of the New York State Thruway. Hours of operation are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mario Serrano

Press Relations Manager

International Boxing Hall of Fame

Email: boxingpublicist@aol.com

Phone: (702) 592-5673

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Louie Lopez Gets Off the Deck to Secure Split Decision Victory Against Jesus Resendiz on CBN Promotions Card

Photos by Carlos Baeza – CBN Promotions

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LONG BEACH, CA (April 1, 2024) – This past Saturday, March 30, 2024, on CBN Promotions’ “New Blood” card, Louie Lopez (15-2-2, 5 KOs), from Corona, CA, defeated Jesus Resendiz (8-1-1, 6 KOs) from San Diego, CA, in the 8-round welterweight main event. The show took place at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California.

The fight was all action from the opening bell. After a both fighters were feeling each other out, Lopez hit the canvas at the end of round one, when Resendiz hit him with a straight right hand in an exchange. Lopez was not hurt and came back in the middle rounds. As the fight entered the latter rounds, Lopez outworked Resendiz and secured a split decision victory. The scorecards read 77-74 twice for Lopez, and 77-74 for Resendiz.

“After I got dropped early in the fight, I knew I had to dig deep to get back in the fight,” said Lopez. “I came back and finished strong and got the win. I’ll be ready to get back in the ring as soon as possible. I want to thank everyone from their continued support.”

In the 6-round super welterweight bout, Nelson Oliva (11-0, 8 KOs) won a hard-fought unanimous decision against Franyerson Puerta (5-4, 5 KOs). Both fighters were engaging on the inside for most of the fight, but Oliva was landing the harder shots. Entering the final round, Oliva turned up the heat and let his hands fly, securing a victory. Scorecards read 58-56, 60-54, and 59-55, all in favor for Oliva.

“Puerta was a very tough opponent and I got in some good rounds,” stated Oliva. “As the fights get tougher, I know I’m going to have to use my ring IQ to win fights. I’m always prepared to go the distance if the knockout doesn’t come early. I’m ready for the next level of competition.”

The entire event was broadcast live on Fubo Sports, Stadium, Gray Television and on tape delay on Fox Deportes and Estrella TV.

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Super Lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (6-0, 2 KOs) defeated Giovanny Gonzalez (2-5, 2 KOs) by unanimous decision in a scheduled 6-round bout. Gonzalez was dropped in round two. Scorecards read 40-35 across the board.

Super Bantamweight George Navarro (9-2-1, 4 KOs) defeated MJ Bo (5-5-1, 1 KO) by unanimous decision in a scheduled 6-round bout. Scorecards read 59-55, and 58-56 twice.

Lightweight Eric Mondragon (9-1-1, 4 KOs) defeated Jenel Lausa (11-3-1, 7 KOs) by unanimous decision in a scheduled 6-round bout. Lausa was down in round two. Scorecards read 60-53 across the board.

Super bantamweight Saul Gomez (3-0, 3 KOs) defeated Peter Henry Acosta (0-1) by knockout in the 4th round of a scheduled 4-round bout. Time was 11 seconds into the final round.

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, Shoe Palace – Community comes first, and Northgate Market – a family-owned supermarket chain.

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Split-T Management Goes Seven-For-Seven Over the Weekend

Wins by Oshae Jones, Haven Brady Jr., Giovanni Marquez and Donte Layne Friday in Atlanta 

Trinidad Vargas, LeAnna Cruz and Greg Outlaw Get Hands Raised Saturday in Chester, PA

NEW YORK (April 1, 2024) – Split-T Management fighters were a perfect seven-for-seven over two cards this past weekend.

Friday night on the Overtime Boxing series in Atlanta in a battle of undefeated lightweight, Haven Brady Jr. stopped Waldemar Carril in round six of their eight-round bout. 

In round five, Brady dropped Carril with a perfect overhand chopping right hand. Later in the round, Brady was deducted a point for hitting behind the head. In round six, Brady landed a hard combination on the ropes and the fight was stopped at 1:59.

Brady, 132.6 lbs of Albany, GA is 12-0 with five knockouts. Carril, 133 lbs of Puerto Rico is 8-1.

Giovanni Marquez dominated former world title challenger Jayson Velez and won a six-round unanimous decision on a junior welterweight bout. 

Marquez, 142 1/4 lbs of Houston won by scores of 60-54 and is now 9-0. Velez, 142 1/4 lbs over Puerto Rico is 30-14-1. 

Oshae Jones remained undefeated with a five-round beatdown over Sonya Dreiling in a scheduled eight-round junior middleweight bout. 

In rounds two and three, Jones battered Dreiling to the point where Dreiling started to bleed from her face.

Finally in round five the bout was halted as Dreiling was taking a large amount of punishment.

Jones, 153 3/4 lbs of Toledo, OH is 6-0 with two knockouts. Dreiling of Greely, CO is 6-5.

In a battle of undefeated super middleweights, Donte Layne stopped DeShaun Mitchell in the opening round of their four-round bout.

In round one, Layne dropped Mitchell as he hurt him with a right to the top of the head. Layne scored a second knockdown with a hard flurry. Mitchell was unsteady and got dropped again after eating a series of rights and lefts and the fight was stopped at 2:43.

Layne, 168 lbs of Elmont, NY is 2-0 with two knockouts. Mitchell, 167 3/4 lbs of Independence, MS is 2-1.

Saturday night at Harrahs Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack, three more Split-T Fighters continued their upswing towards contendership.

Saturday night in Chester, PA, Greg Outlaw stopped Rondale Hubbert in round three of their scheduled eight-round bout that headlined at Harrahs Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack.

Outlaw dropped Hubbert four times and the bout was stopped at 2:31.

Outlaw of Bowie, MD is now 14-2 with eight knockouts. Hubbert of Duluth, Minnesota is 16-29-3.

LeAnna Cruz continued to climb towards a world title shot as he took a six-round unanimous decision over Josefina Vegas in a super flyweight bout.

Cruz of Allentown, PA won by scores of 60-53 on all cards to raise her record to 9-0. Vega of Quito, Ecuador is 9-9.

Trinidad Vargas remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Robin Ellis in a super flyweight bout.

Vargas of Grand Prairie, Texas won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 5-0. Ellis of Hempstead, NY is 6-3-2.

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Louie Lopez vs Jesus Resendiz

Headlines CBN Promotions on March 30 Show

LONG BEACH, CA (March 29, 2024) – CBN Promotions is excited to announce the expansion of its broadcast distribution with the addition of Stadium and Gray Televison as new partners. Stadium and Gray Television will join Fubo Sports, FOX Deportes, and Estrella TV in broadcasting CBN Promotions’ thrilling boxing events to a wider audience.

The partnership comes just in time for CBN Promotions’ next show, scheduled to take place this Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. The highly anticipated event will feature Resendiz vs. Lopez, an intense 8-round welterweight bout, as the main event, promising an action-packed evening for boxing fans around the world.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gray Television and Stadium to the CBN Promotions family,” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “With their extensive reach and commitment to delivering quality sports content, we are confident that our partnership will further elevate the visibility of our events and provide fans with unparalleled boxing entertainment.”

“Thunder Studios is honored to once again serve as the venue for CBN Promotions’ thrilling boxing showdowns,” stated Rolando Nichols, President of Thunder Studios. “We look forward to providing a world-class setting for fighters and fans alike to experience the excitement and intensity of live boxing.”

Stadium and Gray Television representatives also expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership and their eagerness to bring CBN Promotions’ events to their viewers.

“We’re excited to join forces with CBN Promotions as a broadcast partner and showcase their thrilling boxing matches to sports fans everywhere,” stated David Scott, SVP Programming at Stadium. “CBN is fostering a robust and loyal fight sports community that we are more than happy to welcome here at Stadium.”

“We are thrilled to join forces with CBN Promotions and broadcast their exhilarating boxing events to our audience,” said a spokesperson for Gray Television. “We are looking forward to this partnership that will give our viewers the exhilarating action that boxing brings”

Click HERE to find out where to watch all programming on Stadium.

Click HERE to find out where to watch all the programming on Gray Television.

The entire event will be broadcast live on Fubo Sports, Stadium, Gray Television and on tape delay on Fox Deportes and Estrella TV. Doors open and at 5:00 pm PT with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $55, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling Ticketon at 800-688-8080, or online

at www.cbnpromotions.com or www.ticketon.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810.

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, Shoe Palace – Community comes first, and Northgate Market B – a family-owned supermarket chain.

 

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Andres Cortes to Attend Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson Fight Eyes, Potential Showdown with Winner

Story By Ron John Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 29, 2024) – Top Rank’s undefeated super featherweight contender Andres “Savage” Cortes (21-0, 12 KOs), currently ranked #3 by the WBO, will be in attendance at the highly anticipated Oscar Valdez vs. Liam Wilson fight for the WBO interim title. The event is set to take place this Friday, March 29th, at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, and is being promoted by Top Rank.

Cortes, who currently holds the WBO Inter-Continental title along with the WBC Silver belt, will be sitting ringside at the event, closely observing the action as Valdez and Wilson battle it out for the interim title. With his eyes set on the winner, Cortes sees this fight as a potential future showdown in the super featherweight division.

“I’ll be watching the Valdez vs. Wilson fight closely because I see myself facing the winner in the near future,” said Cortes, born and raised in Las Vegas. “This is a significant matchup in the division, and I’m ready to take on the challenge against whoever emerges victorious.”

Known for his confidence and skill inside the ring, Cortes emphasized his belief in his abilities and willingness to face any opponent in the division. “I firmly believe that I am the best fighter in the super featherweight division, and I’m prepared to prove it by taking on all comers. I’m eager to showcase my talents and continue my journey towards becoming a world champion,” he added.

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Rajon Chance Fights Travon Lawson

Battle of Undefeated Super Bantamweights Leads Stacked Undercard Saturday, April 6th at Mohegan Sun

Plus Undefeated Ryan O’Rourke, Sharif Rahman and more!

TOP WORLD RATED LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILORMAN” RIVERA HEADLINES IN MAIN EVENT

Story By Salvador Ramirez

Uncasville, CT (March 29, 2024) – Star Boxing has put together a packed undercard that will feature some of the top undefeated prospects in the country on Saturday, April 6th at The Mohegan Sun Arena.

Undefeated super bantamweights will appear in the eight-round co-feature as Star Boxing’s Rajon Chance (8-0-1, 6 KOs) battles Travon Lawson (5-0, 3 KOs).

Chance of East Orange, New Jersey began to open eyes atter defeating previously undefeated Elon DeJesus. In his last bout, the 23 year-old stopped 34-fight veteran Martin Diaz in the opening round on March 4, 2023, in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Lawson from the championship city of Tuscaloosa, Alabama has already defeated two undefeated foes which includes the highly regarded Angel Barrientes. In his last bout, Lawson took a four-round unanimous decision over Brendei Graham on February 27, 2021, in Atlanta,

Also seeing action is Star Boxing’s undefeated junior welterweight Ryan O’Rourke from Dublin, Ireland battling Joshua David Rivera in a six-round bout.

The 24 year-old O’Rourke won his first seven bouts in Europe and has made a great impression since campaigning in the United States. O’Rourke has won three consecutive starts on American soil which has been highlighted by a unanimous decision over Faydal Razkallah. O’Rourke is coming off a seventh round stoppage over Dashaun Johns on May 13, 2023 in Huntington, New York. Joshua David Rivera of La Mesa, California is 8-4 with three knockouts.

Undefeated middleweight Sharif Rahman fights Kijonti Davis in a six-round bout.

Rahman, who is the son of former Heavyweight Champion of the World Hasim Rahman, has a record of 7-0 with four knockouts. Davis is 1-3 with one knockouts.

Other scheduled fights: Jacob Marrero (5-0, 4 KOs) of Bridgeport, CT. takes on Arveontae Dukes (2-0) of Bronx, NY, in a battle of undefeated junior welterweights; NYC Fireman Louis Maietta (3-4-2) form Bronx, NY fighting Erick Alves (0-2) from Boston in a super middleweight; Also seeing action will be super lightweight Oscar Bonilla (10-3-2, 1 KO) of Bridgeport, CT. and cruiserweight Demek Edmonds (8-0, 7 KOs) of Worcester, Mass.

Those bouts will support the previously announced 10-round light heavyweight main event featuring Richie Rivera (25-2, 19 KOs) of East Hartford, CT and Matthew Obinna (23-0, 23 KOs) of Lagos, Nigeria.

Tickets to “Slugfest at the Sun” are on sale now at www.StarBoxing.com and start at just $40. The night of fights will feature a fantastic card, including some of the best talent in the area.

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“Granite Chin Box Off” to launch May 11^th

4-fighter, 1-night super middleweight tournament

“Rumble at the Rink” at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, MA

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

QUINCY, Mass. (March 29, 2024) – Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) has announced the launching of its innovative one-night tournament, “Granite Chin Box Off,” on Saturday night, May 11, featuring a quartet of throw-back super middleweight fighters from New England headlining the “Rumble at the Rink” pro boxing card, at Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy, Massachusetts.

The quartet of super middleweights will fight in three-round bouts (4^th round of sudden death if needed in case of a draw) early in the evening and the two winners will advance to the five-round main event (6^th round of sudden death in the event of a draw) to determine the champion of what promoter Chris Traietti plans to be an annual tournament, which has been sanctioned by the Massachusetts Boxing Commission.

All four fighters are aggressive and gutsy who come to fight, which translates into a memorable evening for fans.

“This tournament has been an idea I have been flirting with since 2021,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “I didn’t want to pull the trigger on it until I felt as though I had some of the initial concerns worked out and I had the right four guys. It has all come together now! There is no combination of fights with these four that won’t be action-packed right from the opening bell. This is something Granite Chin plans to do annually, so once this inaugural tournament is complete, we will assess it to see if any improvements are needed to get one ready for 2025. Thank you to the fighters for their passion in being part of something special like this and the Massachusetts Commission for all its help in navigating me to getting all the safety issues addressed and handled so it could be sanctioned.”

Here is a breakdown of the four “Granite Chin Box Off” challengers:

James “Pitbull” Perkins (13-1-1, 9 KOs), Lynn, MA

Perkins is the pre-tournament favorite based on his pro record and quality of opposition. A gravedigger during the day, Perkins suffered his lone loss last August to Steve Sumpter (9-0, 7 KOs), losing an eight-round majority decision for the vacant IBA America Super Middleweight Championship.

“I’m really looking forward to this event. I’ve always wanted to fight in a tournament because I never fought in the Golden Gloves or any amateur tournaments. I decided to turn pro after my sixth amateur fight. It’s even better that the event is being held at a hockey rink because I grew up my whole life playing hockey. I started skating at two years old and played all the way through high school (St. Mary’s of Lynn).

“I’m prepared to deal with whatever comes at me. I know who all the fighters are, but I know Clark a lot more than the other fighters. Me and Clark have fought on the same card a number of times. I like Clark and he’s a tough guy, but if we end up in the ring together, it will be all business. We won’t be friends when we are in there. At the end of the night, I’m very confident I’ll be the winner of the tournament.”

Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (5-3, 2 KOs), Swansea, MA

A former Massachusetts Middleweight Champion, Andreozzi has recovered from a brutal leg/ankle injury suffered more than a year ago, returning this past February 24^th within a second-round knockout of Igor Pessoa.

“It’s (tournament) breaking boundaries for sure. It’s the type of tournament where emotional control will be important. You can’t blow your load in the first round of the first fight and still expect to succeed. I have a few hundred wrestling matches and over a dozen karate matches. I’m used to the emotional control necessary to effectively do violence twice in one night. I can’t wait!

“Ryan Clark is a great guy. We’ve done rounds before my fight with Kyle Cusick (April 22, 2022). Perkins went six hard rounds with a former teammate of mine. Bernard seems like a good dude, so nothing personal against him.”

Bernard Joseph (6-1, 4 KOs), Dorchester, MA

Joseph has won his last two fights and has been active with four fights in 2023 and this will be his second of 2024.  The 33-year-old will also have a hometown advantage fighting in nearby Quincy.

“It is different (tournament format), but it comes down to the way we train. I do a lot of sparring and that will be good for me. It comes down to training and getting my body used to the break like in sparring. I could be fighting four rounds and then six.

“I’m a pro now, fighting six rounders, but not with a long pause between fights like in this tournament. It will give me time to rehydrate and get ready for the second fight of the night. I’ve seen video of all the other fighters and I’m not bad-mouthing anybody, but I can’t not feel that I’m the favorite to win it all.”   

Ryan Clark (4-5, 2 KOs), Barrington, ME

A natural middleweight, Clark is moving up the most weight in the tournament, something he is well aware of but not overly concerned. Another action-packed fighter, Clark’s record is misleading because he’s as tough as they come and capable of defeating any of the other three challengers.

“It’s (tournament) is a great idea. Chris (Traietti) is a smart guy, and this tournament will provide entertainment for the fans, and it’ll be a challenge for the fighters. I applaud his idea. I typically fight at 160 and this tournament has me fighting in a little bigger weight class. I like the challenge.

“I know Tony and Perkins and I respect them. They’re talented. This (tournament) is similar to sparring. I spar five or six rounds, hang around talking, get in some other training, and then get back in the ring to spar again. This isn’t too different.”

Additional matches will soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale to purchase at www.granite-chin-promotions.ticketleap.com.

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Undefeated Super Lightweight Kurt Scoby Returns to the Ring in Atlanta on April 19

Story By Alexander Rinaldi

NEW YORK, NY (March 28, 2024) – Undefeated super lightweight slugger Kurt Scoby (13-0, 11 KOs) is ready to make his highly anticipated return to the ring at the Overtime Elite Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 19, 2024. Scoby will be facing off against Dakota Linger (13-6-3, 9 KOs) of Buckhannon, West Virginia, in a scheduled 8-round main event bout.

This fight, promoted by OTX (Overtime Boxing), will be televised live on DAZN, giving fans across the globe the opportunity to witness Scoby’s impressive power and skills.

Training in the gritty depths of Brooklyn’s infamous Gleason’s Boxing Gym, Scoby’s grinding away, fine-tuning his craft with the seasoned wisdom of trainers Don Saxby and Leon “Cat” Taylor. Coming up strong in the tough New York boxing scene, Scoby’s known as a real fighter, one who can end sparring with one punch. He’s rapidly becoming boxing’s next fresh face in NYC.

Kurt Scoby, who tends to keep his words short and to the point, sums up his feelings about his reputation and training regimen saying, ““I’ll never be satisfied!”

Co-managers Brandon Stump and Daniel Gonzalez, alongside the seasoned promoter Lou DiBella, believe Scoby has every attribute to become something special in the ring. With their combined efforts, they have confidence that they will strategically guide Scoby’s journey to the top of the boxing world. Here is what they had to say.

“Kurt Scoby has been making a lot of noise training in New York, everyone is talking about him,” stated Scoby’s co-manager Brandon Stump, President of CTB Athletics. “Everyone watching live in Atlanta or on DAZN is going to see his explosiveness. There is no doubt in my mind that Scooby will become the face of boxing in New York City, it’s just a matter of time.”

“Kurt Scoby is a world class athlete with world class discipline and world class talent,” said Scoby’s co-manager Daniel Gonzalez. “2024 is going to be an amazing year for him and for OTX Boxing. There is no doubt in my mind that he will move from being a prospect to being a real contender in the loaded super lightweight division.

“Kurt Scoby is one of the best prospects in boxing right now at 140 pounds,” said renowned boxing promoter, Lou Dibella, from NYC. “He’s also an explosive puncher. He had a stellar 2023 and will begin 2024 back on Overtime in a tough contest, on April 19, against an upset-minded Dakota Linger. A win here helps push Scooby further up the world ratings.”

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THREE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE FIGHTS SLATED IN “THE QUEST FOR THE BEST” ON APRIL 27 AT THE CASINO MIAMI JAI-ALA

“The Quest for the Best”

THREE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE FIGHTS SLATED IN “THE QUEST FOR THE BEST” ON APRIL 27

Story By Salvador Ramirez

MIAMI, FL (March 28, 2024)— Legendary boxing promoter Don King has put together another electrifying boxing event, “The Quest for the Best,” set to take place on Saturday, April 27, at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai in Miami, Florida. This evening promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent and determination as three championship bouts top the slate of matchups set to unfold in the ring.

Don King commented: “In the ring, there’s no room for hesitation, only domination. ‘The Quest for the Best’ will be a testament to the relentless pursuit of greatness in the squared circle.”

The lineup for this highly anticipated event features some of the most formidable contenders in the sport.

WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Champion Ian Green (18-2, 12 KOs) has been a fan favorite at Casino Miami. The Paterson, NJ native aims to win his seventh straight fight as he takes on Roy Barringer (10-4, 6 KOs), a hard-hitting challenger from Toledo, OH.

Miami, FL’s own Ahmed Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs), who holds the NABA/NABF Light Heavyweight Championships, will show his explosive power as he takes on undefeated Sergio Jimenez (13-0-1, 11 KOs) from San Pedro, CA, in a showdown that promises fireworks from start to finish.

The third championship fight will feature WBC Int’l Lightweight Champion Antonio Perez (9-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA risks his title against Los Angeles’ Oscar Acevedo (9-1).

The evening of boxing also will feature four undercard fights. DeVon Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will face Julio Tanori (1-1, 1 KO) for the WBC Youth Intercontinental Super Lightweight championship. 

Angel Perez (9-0, 7 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA will take on Nigel Fennell (13-3, 8 KOs) of Chula Vista, CA in an eight-round welterweight attraction. A 10-round bantamweight fight will feature Boynton Beach, FL sensation Lawrence Newton (16-0, 7 KOs) challenging Luis Tenorio (10-0, 8 KOs) of Tulua, Colombia and the final undercard fight is a six-round welterweight attraction will feature Semajay Thomas (11-1, 8 KOs) of Chicago, IL.

Tickets for this sensational evening of boxing are now on sale, starting at just $25. Don’t miss your chance to witness the action live at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai. Ringside tables are available for $1,500, while side floor seats can be purchased for $50. Floor ringside seats are priced at $100, and ringside seats are $300. Secure your seats now at www.playcasinomiami.com.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live on DonKing.com, FITE.TV, and ITUBE247.com, ensuring that fans worldwide can experience the thrill of “The Quest for the Best.”

Join us on Saturday, April 27, for an unforgettable night of championship boxing, presented by the one and only Don King. For more information and updates, visit www.donking.com.

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Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez

Predicts victory in a war versus  Arsen Goulamirian

Story By Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (March 28, 2024) –- Elite challenger Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) has predicted victory this Saturday night in a war versus undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (21-0, 14 KOs) which will be streamed live on DAZN from YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, California.

The 12-round Goulamirian vs. Zurdo main event headlines a card promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Y12 Boxing.

“He (Goulamirian) is the Champ for a reason,” Ramirez said. “Arsen is the warrior with Thor-like strength who can also box. He’s going to be a huge challenge, which is why I wanted this fight. I’ve been working on my skills and my strength to overcome Arsen.

“It’s going to be a war. I know he likes to fight on the inside and that’s my specialty as well. I believe the combination of my strength and power will allow me to be victorious.”

The 32-year-old Ramirez was the first Mexican-born boxer to capture a super middleweight world title and now he’s planning to duplicate that feat as a cruiserweight against Goulamirian, the Armenian-born champion who lives in France and trains in Big Bear, California. This will only be Zurdo’s second fight as a cruiserweight having moved up from the light heavyweight division, after he campaigned at 168-pounds for  the first 10 years of his professional boxing career.

“I feel comfortable at this weight,” ‘Zurdo’ noted. “Naturally, as I got older, it was tougher to make weight and now everything seems to be easier. Like I always say, there’s no better teacher than experience in this life. I’m not training differently as a cruiserweight. I’m always working on the basics of boxing. Going into a higher division, one of the main things is that I’m able to lift  heavy and not worry about gaining muscle mass.”

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Toro’s heavyweight trio rolls

Tsotne Rogava, Alexander Flores & Kingsley Ibeh all register impressive knockout victories

Toro Promotions Official Fighter Results from Ontario, CA

 

LOS ANGELES (March 24, 2024) – Toro Promotions’ train of promising heavyweight prospects – undefeated 2020 Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogava (6-0, 6 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-4-1, 17 KOs) and Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs) – all turned in impressive knockout performances last night at LumColor Phoenix Center in Ontario, California.

The event was co-promoted by Toro Promotions, Inc. and Fearless Boxing Promotions.

The 6’ 5”, 264-pound Rogava kept his undefeated pro record perfect with his sixth victory in six fights, all won by early knockouts.  Born in Georgia, the fast-rising Rogava absolutely destroyed Antonio Brown (8-5, 8 KOs), dropping him three times in the opening round for his third straight first-round stoppage of an opponent.

A former Muay Thai fighter and kickboxer simply overpowered Brown, who also has knockout power based on his career record. Rogava has boxed a grand total of only eight rounds in his six pro fights, clearly dominating any opponent who has stepped in the ring with him, nobody getting through two complete rounds .

Flores rebounded from his 10-round unanimous decision loss to 15-1-1 Dante Stone this past January 4 in grand fashion, landing at will and closing the show in the third round against Josue Vargas (5-7-2, 2 KOs). Three of his other pro career losses have all been to world champions Luis Ortiz, Joseph Parker, and Charles Martin for the popular fighter from Rowland Heights, California,

Nigeria-native Ibeh, who lives in Phoenix, is a physically imposing specimen, standing 6’ 4” and tipping the scales at 299 pounds. Ibeh extended his win streak to seven with a first-round knockout of a game Derek Cardenas (9-12, 2 KOs). Ibeh, whose cousin is the infamous heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi (20-0, 15 KOs), decked Cardenas twice in round one.

Complete Results of Toro Promotions’ fighters below: 

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Bob Lee – The Former New Jersey Boxing Commissioner and the 1st President of the IBF passed away

Story By Henry Hacup

Bob Lee – Former New Jersey Boxing Commissioner and the 1st President of the IBFhas passed away.

Bob, was inducted into the New Jersey Boxing hall of Fame on November 14, 1986.

Robert W. Lee, currently resideds in Fanwood, NJ, and has been living in and around Scotch Plains-Fanwood vicinity all of his life. He was graduated from the Scotch Plains-Fanwood school system and attended City College of New York, as well as Fairleigh Dickinson University in Florham Park, NJ. He and his wife, Shirley, are the parents of four children.

For six years, Mr. Lee served as Deputy State Athletic Commissioner of New Jersey, under former Heavyweight Champion of the World, Jersey Joe Walcott, After Mr. Walcott’s retirement in January 1983, Mr. Lee served as Acting Commissioner of the State Athletic Commission for one and one half years. In those capacities, Mr. Lee helped to guide New Jersey toward becoming the boxing capital of the United States and possibly the world. He has been credited with making many positive changes in the state’s boxing programs for the betterment of the sport that have been adopted by other jurisdictions and hailed as revolutionary in the industry.

From 1980-1982, Mr. Lee held the post of 2nd Vice President of the World Boxing Association, making him the highest ranking member of that world body on the continent. During 1982, Boxing Today, a national publication, named Mr. Lee as one of the four top officials in boxing and even called for his appointment as a National Commissioner of boxing.

During 1982, Mr. Lee sought to bring the presidency of the World Boxing Association back to the United States where it had not been for over nine years. Being narrowly defeated (by nine votes), Mr. Lee did not seek re-election to the vice presidency, but elected to divert his energies toward strengthening the United States Boxing Association of which he was and is the President .. In 1983, the USBA added an international division, that has since become known as the International Boxing Federation, that Mr. Lee also presides over.

Mr. Lee is the first American, since 1973, to have ever run for the position of president of an international boxing organization and the first American to have been elected to the post of president of an international boxing organizat-ion since 1973.

As President of the IBF /USBA, Mr. Lee was recognized worldwide as a leader in the boxing field and his efforts have been the catalyst for many a young boxer to get rated and box for championships nationally and internationally. Largely through Mr. Lee’s efforts, officiating changes have been made in world class boxing and some of these changes have filtered down to. state and other commissions. When speaking of the progressive course that boxing must follow and of knowledgeable people in the sport, without question the one voice that is clear and incisive is that of Robert W. Lee.

Mr. Lee has been active in the political arena, as well as in the area of civic involvement, He has served on the Board of Managers at John E. Runnells Hospital in Berkeley Heights, NJ; the Fanwood Planning Board; the Scotch Plains Recreation Commission; the Union County Psychiatric Clinic; the Union County Metal Health Board: the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Human Rights Council: the Union County Urban League Board; and, the American Cancer Society.

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Greg Outlaw Takes on Rondale Hubbert in Main Event on Saturday, March 30 at Harrahs Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack in Chester, PA.

Undefeated LeAnna Cruz, Stanley Johnson, Trinidad Vargas, Nasheed H. Smith, Deric Davis, Hakeem Harmon, Steve Cunningham Jr, Juan Davila and Tyshawn Denson in Action

Plus RDR Promotions Rashan Adams

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

Philadelphia, PA (March 22, 2024) — Another massive night of professional boxing is in store when RDR Promotions returns to the Harrahs Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack in Chester, Pennsylvania on Saturday night, March 30th.

In the eight-round main event, junior welterweight Greg Outlaw Jr, (13-2, 7 KOs) of Bowie, MD takes on tough veteran Rondale Hubbert (16-28-3, 10 KOs) of Duluth, Minnesota.

Outlaw has quality wins over Kashon Hutchinson (2-0), Mack Allison IV (8-1-1), Edgar Torres (8-1-1), Johnathan Montrel (12-0) and his last fight when he scored an opening round knockout over Sebastian Gabriel Chaves on November 10, 2023 in Philadelphia.

Hubbert is a 12 year-pro and has wins over Winston Anderson (4-0), RJ Lasse (12-1), Tony Lee (11-2-1) and his last bout when he took out Marklin Bailey in three rounds on February 16th in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

In the six-round co-feature, highly regarded super flyweight LeAnna Cruz (7-0) of Allentown, PA fights Beata Dudek (3-1, 3 KOs) of Miskolc, Hungary.

Cruz won the NABF Super Flyweight title with a eight-round unanimous decision over Tania Walters on November 10th in Philadelphia,

Dudek is coming off her first blemish as she dropped a six-round decision to Brittany Sims on March 1st in El Paso, Texas.

Also in a six-round bout, undefeated cruiserweight Stanley Johnson (3-0, 2 KOs) of Houston, Texas will take on an opponent to be named.

In four-round bouts:

Rashan Adams (5-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Ryan Picou (3-15-1 of Las Vegas in a super featherweight contest.

Trinidad Vargas (4-0, 1 KO) of Grand Prairie, Texas fights Robin Ellis (6-2, 5 KOs) of New York in a super flyweight contest.

Nasheed H. Harris (1-0, 1 KO) of Washington, DC takes on Twon Smith (3-8, 2 KOs) of Oklahoma City in a light heavyweight bout.

Deric Davis (2-0,2 KOs) of Fort Washington, Maryland will square off with Emond Driver (1-2, 1 KO) of Indianapolis in a lightweight contest.

Hakeem Harmon (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Christopher Puryear (2-1) of Jacksonville, Florida in a lightweight fight.

Steve Cunningham Jr, (2-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh takes on Jeremiah Kendrick (1-3, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a middleweight bout.

Juan Davila (4-0, 2 KOs) of Franklinville, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a lightweight fight.

Lamar Smith of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against Anthony Young (0-7) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight bout.

Tyshwan Denson (2-0, 1 KO) of Akron, Ohio takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight fight.

Deutrell Perry of Hatfield, PA will make his pro debut against an opponent to be named in a lightweight fight.

Tickets are $65, $75, $100 and $130 and can be purchased at rdrboxing@yahoo.com

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Story by Alexander Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (March 22, 2024) – Toronto’s undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs) will make his first title defense March 30^th against Rowdy Legend Montgomery (10-5-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-pound match on a Golden Boy Promotions card headlined by the WBA Cruiserweight World title fight between defending champion Arsen Goulimarian and Hackett’s stablemate, former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.

All the action will be streamed live on DAZN from YouTube Theater in Los Angeles.

WBA No. 13 world-rated Hackett captured his crown last September 20^th in Plant City, Florida, when he dominated 4-1 favorite and previously undefeated Clay Waterman (11-0, 8 KOs) enroute to a 10-round unanimous decision, in which he won all 10 rounds on two of the judges’’ scorecards and nine on the other judge’s.

“I would have liked to fight sooner but that’s the way this business goes,” Hackett said. “It’s harder to get fights after winning my title than it was. A lot of good has happened since my last fight. I understand. I have a title and I’m world ranked. I have a clearer path towards a world title shot. I appreciate any opportunity to get in the ring.

“I’m getting more respect since I displayed my skills on ProBox.TV. (Announcers) Juan Manual Marguez, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri gave me a lot of props and that’s been very validating.   

Hackett has gained invaluable experience sparring world champions such as “Zurdo” Ramirez, Dmitry Bivol, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Sergio Mora, Mathew Macklin and David Benavidez.

Hackett has already established firsts by a Toronto boxer in terms of fighting on a Golden Boy Promotions card and becoming WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight title holder.

“I’m a trailblazer for Toronto boxing,” promotional free agent Hackett explained with great pride. “I want to bring the first world title home, for sure, and one day the undisputed and unified titles, too, Toronto is a big city with a lot of natural talent, but I don’t know why boxing hasn’t thrived there.”

Hackett is trained by fast-rising Julian Chua at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood (CA) and managed by 3 Point Management (3 PM).

“(Dmitry) Bivol is at the head of the light heavyweight division, and I know he’s a strong guy,” Hackett noted. “We’ve changed some things since my last fight with the end in mind. We’ve tripled down, strength-wise, for when we run into him. That’s the main change. I feel that I’m the most agile fighter in our division and I’m working on getting stronger to match my skills and ring IQ.”

In 2024, Hackett wants to add hardware and fight a top-10 ranked opponent but, at least for now, he’s happy to be in his fight with Montgomery in his second home, Los Angeles.

“I love that this fight is in LA,” Hackett concluded. “I’m comfortable in Los Angeles. I feel at home here and fighting in other places in California. I’m also excited to be fighting on a card headlined by one of my closest friends in boxing (Zurdo).”

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POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN RETURNS HOME

FOR SLUGFEST AT THE SUN:

TOP WORLD RATED LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT RICHIE RIVERA TO FIGHT UNDEFEATED MATHEW OBINNA APRIL 6 AT MOHEGAN SUN

Story by Alexander Rinaldi

Uncasville, CT (March 19, 2024) – Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing returns to the beautiful Mohegan Sun Arena on April 6, 2024, as top world rated light heavyweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (E. Hartford, CT, 25-2 19KOs) makes his long-awaited return to Connecticut, against undefeated Nigerian, MATHEW “THE WISE MAN” OBINNA (Lagos, Nigeria, 23-0 23KOs), in a 10 round light heavyweight bout.

Rivera, a Connecticut son, has been an all-around notable athlete as far back as his pop warner days, playing football, baseball, basketball and having earned all-state honors as a swimmer in high school. His athleticism has translated to the boxing ring, being highly rated by all four major sanctioning bodies – #5 WBA, #7 WBC, #9 IBF and #14 WBO (Cruiserweight). Rivera is predicted to be the next star to grace the ring at Star Boxing’s “Slugfest at the Sun,” Star Boxing’s fan friendly series at Mohegan Sun has thrilled fans with former World Champions, Joe Smith Jr., Demetrius Andrade and Kali Reis (now star of hit HBO series True Detective), multi World Championship Challenger Delvin Rodriguez and numerous other notables.

Opposing Rivera is undefeated Nigerian Mathew Obinna, who has a perfect 100% KO ratio, having knocked out every man put in front of him in his professional career. Dubbed “The Wise Man” because his right hand has no problem teaching you a lesson, Obinna will be making his US debut in what is by far the biggest opportunity of his professional career.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the Rivera-Obinna main event, “We are excited to be back at the beautiful Mohegan Sun on April 6 with this exciting fight card featuring Richie (Popeye) Rivera, our world rated light heavyweight. Popeye entertains in and out of the ring and the undefeated Mathew Obinna promises he will bring firepower against Popeye. Popeye is just steps away from a major title fight, and he aims to prove it against a fighter with a perfect KO ratio. Be sure to get tickets as you won’t want to miss this show!”

Tickets to “Slugfest at the Sun” are on sale now at www.StarBoxing.com and start at just $40. The night of fights will feature a fantastic card, including some of the best talent in the area. More information will be announced soon regarding the undercard.

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Toro Promotions to showcase heavyweight trio

Undefeated Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogava to headline,  plus Alexander Flores and Kingsley Ibeh

This Saturday at Phoenix Center in Ontario, CA

Story by Mark Randa

LOS ANGELES (March 19, 2024) – Toro Promotions, Inc. will showcase a heavyweight trio of talent – undefeated 2020 Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogava (5-0, 5 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-4-1, 16 KOs) and Kingsley Ibeh (11-2-1, 9 KOs) – this Saturday night (March 23) at LumColor Phoenix Center in Ontario, California.

The event is co-promoted by Toro Promotions, Inc. and Fearless Boxing Promotions.

The 6’ 5”, 270-pound Rogava is on the fast track. Born in Georgia, Rogava lived for several years in Ukraine until moving last year to Marina del Rei, California. He has successfully transitioned to boxing from his world class Muay Thai and kickboxing career.

Rogava is on the fast track; this fight will be his third in 2024, albeit neither bout went beyond the first round. In fact, the powerful heavyweight has only box seven rounds in his five pro fights to date.

In addition to headlining a card for the second time in a row. Rogava will be in his first scheduled eight-round bout on March 23^rd, taking on dangerous puncher Antonio Brown (8-4, 8 KOs) in the main event.

Fighting out of Rowland Heights, California, Flores plans to rebound from his 10-round unanimous decision loss to 15-1-1 Dante Stone this past January 4. Flores’ three other pro career losses have all been to world champions Luis Ortiz, Joseph Parker, and Charles Martin

Flores, 33, faces Josue Vargas (5-6-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round match.

Ibeh, known as “The Black Lion,” is a native of Nigeria who lives in Phoenix. The 6’ 4” Ibeh will be riding a six-fight win streak into his six-round fight with Derek Cardenas (9-11, 2 KOs). Ibeh has boxing in his blood. His cousin is Ike Ibeabuchi, who was 20-0 with 15 knockouts and one of the most feared heavyweights in boxing, prior to his 16-year incarceration in Nevada.

Fights subject to change.

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BLAIR “THE FLAIR” COBBS READY TO PUT “THE FLAIR” BACK IN HIS GAME;

COBBS SIGNS WITH PROMOTER DON KING

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL (March 19, 2024)—Blair “The Flair” Cobbs wanted to put “The Flair” back in his boxing game and what better way to do this than to sign with the greatest boxing promoter in the world in Don King.

The 34-year-old Cobbs was hungry to get back into the ring. The Philadelphia, PA born welterweight, who sports a 16-1-1 record with 10 KOs, continues to hold the WBC-NABF welterweight title.

“I’m ready to return to action,” said Cobbs. “And what better way to further my career than to be with the best promoter in the game, Don King. I’m also tired of listening to all the talk out of Adrien Broner. Broner’s talk is cheap. Broner seems to be more comfortable fighting on social media than he is in the ring. There’s no reason not to get in the ring together and I’ll show him who is the boss.

“I’m looking for bigger and more exciting fights. I’m going to make boxing great again. Real fighters and real boxing. Me and Broner will be the comeback of real boxing. Entertainment at its best. Whooo!”

“I’m looking forward to working with Blair and his manager, Greg Hannley,” said King. “He’s determined to add to his NABF title and we’ll get the “flair” back in his fight game.”

Cobbs showed his stuff in his last fight, Aug. 6, 2022, when he won a 10-round unanimous decision against former world champion Maurice Hooker, who had only one loss in 32 fights.

Cobbs suffered the first loss of his career on March 19, 2022 to Alexis Rocha, a fight that he took with just one week’s notice. With his popularity, Cobbs still sold out the arena.

Cobbs won the North American Boxing Federation Junior Welterweight championship by winning a unanimous decision over Ferdinand Kerobyan on March 21, 2019. He has defended his title three times with two knockouts and one decision.

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Hot Irish prospect Tommy Hyde remains undefeated, captures first  title as a pro

“The Governor” stopped defending Celtic Champion Craig McCarthy in 5^th round

SAN FRANCISCO (March 17, 2024) –  Undefeated super middleweight prospect Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (8-0, 5 KOs) captured his first title as a professional this past Saturday night on St. Patrick’s Day Eve, outside of San Francisco at Fox Theater in Redwood City, California.

The 24-year-old Hyde, fighting out of Cork, dethroned defending champion Craig “BTL” McCarthy (10-2-1, 2 KOs), to take the Boxing Union of Ireland Celtic Super Middleweight Champion belt in the fifth round on a card presented by Westside Promotions.

“It’s always a great feeling to win but winning with a title on the line and bringing it home makes that feeling even better,” Hyde said. “I’m happy with my performance. I didn’t waste any shots and felt dominant.

“It was unreal to finally fight in San Francisco. I have made a lot of friends here and made a lot more this week. I’ll definitely fight here again.”

Hyde was comfortable from the opening bell, establishing his range in round one, and then controlling the action with slick counterpunching. McCarthy started to break down and was floored in the second round. Hyde pounded his tough opponent, nearly stopping him at the end of rounds three and four, before he closed the show 30-seconds into round five when referee David Irvine widely halted the action.

In the end, Hyde was simply too big, strong, young and talented for McCarthy to handle.

“This was probably my best performance so far,” Hyde noted. “I fought a tough opponent and won the fight convincingly. I trained very hard for this fight, and I think that showed under the lights.

A celebrated Irish amateur boxer, Hyde participated in more than 100 amateur matches, reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious World Junior Championships in 2015, in addition to capturing three Irish National Championships, three Celtic Cup titles and the 2019 Haringey Box Cup.

Tommy’s father, international boxing manager Gary Hyde, commented: “I am very proud of my son Tommy’s performance on Saturday night. Tommy fought intelligently, hurting his opponent continuously before closing the show at the beginning of the fifth round. Tommy is officially the number 1 super middleweight in Ireland so the Boxing Union of Ireland will decide who he will fight for the vacant Irish Super middleweight title.” 

Tommy “The Governor” Hyde is bringing home his new Celtic belt with visions of adding more hardware in 2024 to his collection.

“Winning the Celtic title makes me the mandatory for the Irish title and I’d love to go for that next,” Hyde concluded. “I want to keep picking up titles while I’m developing as a professional and the Irish title is definitely one I want around my waist.”

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MEXICO VS. MEXICO SHOWDOWN HIGHLIGHTS
CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND IN LAS VEGAS 
Canelo Promotions Presents Clash Of Mexican Superstars As Pound-for-Pound Great Canelo Álvarez Duels All-Action Star Jaime Munguía Headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View Event Available on Prime Video Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas 
Blockbuster Pay-Per-View Card Al

Pre-Sale Available Through AXS.com Thursday, March 14 from 10 AM PT until 10 PM PT with Code: PBC

Public On Sale Begins Friday, March 15 at 10 a.m. PT!

LAS VEGAS – March 18, 2024 – Mexican superstars will go toe-to-toe as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster that will see pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez put his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Canelo vs. Munguía is the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants and harkens back to the great Mexico vs. Mexico matchups of the past including classics such as Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera, Carlos Zárate vs. Alfonso Zamora and Jesús Castillo vs. Rubén Olivares, amongst many others. Canelo has already etched himself in history alongside the greatest Mexican fighters to enter the ring and can add to that legacy on May 4, while Munguía hopes to move himself up the pedestal and make his own lasting mark in the boxing annals with a signature victory Cinco de Mayo weekend.

Pre-sale tickets are available Thursday, March 14 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC

Public on-sale begins Friday, March 15 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.
 
“We are very excited to return on May 4, especially with a Mexican opponent,” said Eddy Reynoso, Canelo’s Manager and Trainer. “This will be a 100% Mexican celebration! There has been a long time since two Mexicans have faced each other in an event like this. It’s going to be a grand fight. Jamie Munguia is an ex-champion who’s been winning fights and demonstrating great things. That tells me it’s going to be an exciting fight. I am very happy and grateful to Jamie that he agreed to make this happen.”
 
“Cinco de Mayo weekend is a crown jewel in the boxing calendar, and this year will be one of the most anticipated in recent memory with this all-Mexico showdown between undisputed champion and future Hall of Famer Canelo Álvarez taking on the undefeated power-puncher Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Saturday, May 4 at T-Mobile Arena will be the highlight of what is always one of the city’s biggest weekends. Fans know that when an all-time great like Canelo faces a hungry action fighter like Munguía, the chances for drama and fireworks are through the roof.”
 
“An all-Mexican championship showdown on Cinco de Mayo weekend between two guys with immense pride for their country and at the top of their games — it doesn’t get any better for the sport of boxing,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. “Given Jaime’s incredible offensive attack, Canelo’s unmatched counterpunching and both guys’ tremendous power, fans are in for an absolute barn burner. We at Golden Boy are proud to have been able to work with our partners at DAZN to help make this massive battle and potential instant classic in Las Vegas that you don’t want to miss!”
 
“Jaime Munguía continues to make history as he paves his way in the sport,” said Fernando Beltrán, CEO of Zanfer Boxing Promotions. “There will be an overflow of Mexican pride in Las Vegas. This fight was accomplished for the people of México between two of the top Mexican fighters in boxing.”
 
*CANELO ÁLVAREZ VS. JAIME MUNGUÍA*
 
The reigning WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO Super Middleweight World Champion, Canelo Álvarez will look to extend his own record of successful undisputed title defenses in the four-belt era as he defends his belts for the fourth time in a 12-round matchup against the unbeaten former 154-pound world champion Jaime Munguía, who will compete at the full 168-pound limit for the third straight fight. 
 
Having captured world titles at 154, 160, 168 and 175-pounds, Canelo (60-2-2, 39 KOs) returns to action after a dominant victory last September that saw him drop former undisputed super welterweight champion Jermell Charlo on his way to a unanimous decision. The fighting pride of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Canelo became undisputed at super middleweight in November 2021 by taking the IBF belt from then unbeaten Caleb Plant via an 11^th-round TKO. After dropping a light heavyweight title fight against Dmitriy Bivol in May 2022, Canelo rebounded to defeat Gennadiy Golovkin in their September 2022 trilogy fight before besting John Ryder in May 2023.
 
Under the guidance of his renowned manager and trainer Eddy Reynoso, Canelo has triumphed over a long list of elite fighters since turning pro at just 15-years-old in 2005, including Golovkin, plus Shane Mosley, Erislandy Lara, Miguel Cotto and Sergey Kovalev to name a few. Outside of the Bivol fight, Canelo’s only other defeat came against undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather in September 2013.
 
“I’m very proud and excited to be able to make this fight,” said Canelo. “A Mexican versus another Mexican is always a huge fight and it’s been a while since there’s been one like this. It’s great to give an opportunity like this to a fighter that’s earned it like Jaime has. It gives me a lot of joy that two Mexicans will be facing each other in such a big fight for the sport.”
 
The 27-year-old Munguía (43-0, 34 KOs) first burst onto the scene in 2018, shocking Sadam Ali via a fourth-round TKO to claim a 154-pound world championship, which he would go on to defend successfully five times. A native of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, Munguía continued his dominance after moving up to 160-pounds, going 6-0 at the weight class from 2020 through 2022, including triumphs over D’Mitrius Ballard, Gabriel Rosado and Tureano Johnson, all while garnering a reputation as one of the most fan-friendly fighters in the sport.
 
Munguía made his debut campaigning at super middleweight in June 2023, facing longtime top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko. Munguía emerged victorious with a unanimous decision in the back-and-forth affair that garnered Fight of the Year honors from the BWAA. In his most recent fight, Munguia joined forces with legendary trainer Freddie Roach, who helped guide him to a dominant ninth-round stoppage of veteran contender John Ryder in January.
 
“I’m very, very happy and filled with enthusiasm for this great opportunity,” said Munguía. “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone involved who were able to make this fight a reality. We are ready to give fans a great night of boxing on Saturday, May 4. I can’t wait to demonstrate to the world that I am capable of doing great things. Viva Tijuana and Viva México!”

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Dane southpaw Kem Ljungquist captures 10-round decision over Mario Kollias in main event on punch-filled card at KB-Hall

Story by Per-Ake Persson

March 9 – Copenhagen, Denmark. Professional boxing returned to the classic (but newly renovated) KB-Hall for the first time since 2006 when Rng*Sde Promotions put on a seven-fight show with three contests of what is now called Olympic Boxing (once known as amateur boxing).

In the headliner heavyweight co-promoter Kem Ljungquist, 17-0, won a controversial majority decision over Greek Marios Kollias, 11-3-1, who fights out of Orebro, Sweden, for Fight Life Promotions in a ten round non-title fight.

The fight itself was close and tough and at the end it looked like a fight that was close enough for a draw. But two of the judges came up with a 98-92 scorecard for Ljungquist with the third having it a more realistic 95-95.

The bigger Dane, a southpaw, got in trouble in the second when first his nose began to bleed and after a right landed a nasty gash opened on the bridge of the nose, which also looked broken. Kem held on for dear life and started a pattern that followed throughout the fight. Kollias tried to get on inside but was tied by his opponent with the referee looking on.

In the sixth the Greek broke through for real and Ljungquist was hurt and close to going down, but he managed to lean, hold and wrestle his opponent and was saved by the bill.

Kollias tired after that and Kem landed with some decent jabs and left uppercuts to the head and body of his opponent – and then tied him up. Kem’s face was by now badly marked up and he struggled mightily but hung in there showing a big heart but with a more active referee it is doubtful he would have made it through the final bell.

In the co-feature Ahmad Al Ahmad, 4-0, stopped Michael De La Rosa Nielsen, 7-5, who was retired by his corner after four one-sided rounds. The vacant Danish featherweight title was at stake. Nielsen is too brave for his own good and took a beating in all rounds but never went down.

Lightweight prospect Elias Idrissi, 3-0, knocked out inept featherweight Mehmedalija Suljic, 3-11-2, who was a late sub, but it was still a bad mismatch, early in the first round.

Light heavyweight Amre Allman made his pro debut with a unanimous points win over Slovakian super middleweight veteran Pavol Garaj, 8-44-3. Allman worked hard but most of his punches were blocked. And Garaj had no problem lasting the distance, although, he lost all four rounds.

Heavyweight Gustav Thorsen, 2-0, floored Bosnian Damir Gulamic, 6-9-2, once in the first and twice in second before it was stopped 44 seconds in the second round of a scheduled four.

Swedish super welterweight Mohammed Al Maki was in tough in his pro debut as he took on Ukrainian Denys Pesotskyy, 2-0, who was a world class boxer as an amateur. Now living in Copenhagen, the southpaw Pesotskyy looked rusty, and his timing was off, but he still handed out a beating. Al Maki, however, was sturdy and despite a cut and a nosebleed he kept trying. The decision was unanimous for Pesotskyy by identical scores of 40-36. Al Maki fell to 0-1.

In the show opener English super welter Emmanuel Zion, 6-1, stopped Nicaraguan Reynaldo Mora, 1:09 into the second round. Mora, based in Spain, was out of his league and was floored twice before being retired by his corner.

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Anthony Joshua brutally knocks out and beats the hell out of former UFC champion Francis Ngannou

Story by Alex and John Rinaldi

Saudi Arabia, March 8. Finally. Before a packed house at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, Anthony Joshua decided to unleash his big right hand and the results were rack and ruin.

For a fighter who lost two straight fights to Oleksandr Usyk by trying to emulate a boxer instead of a slugger, Joshua went back to his slugging roots in a devastating fashion. After three years, Joshua finally got the memo – boxers box and punchers punch.

Joshua appeared to have crawled out of the shell of a boring stand-up boxer to do what he does best – which is to land his hammer-like right to the jaw of an opponent, something that his fans have been waiting for.

Of course, Francis Ngannou, the UFC champion was certainly no Smokin’ Joe Frazier, but he did last the distance against Tyson Fury, though most pundits believed that Fury trained for that fight as if he was going to take a spot of tea and some crumpets at a London Grand Hotel.  

The difference was that Joshua, 252.4, unlike Fury before him, came to fight – and fight he did.

Ngannou, meanwhile looked to have some confidence in himself and appeared to love the fanfare as he came into the ring like a dandy clad in white and pink trunks with gold frills along with matching white and pink gloves.

Once the bell sounded for the start of round one, Joshua, wearing white trunks and brown Everlast gloves, went after Ngannou, 272.4, as if the Cameroonian fighter had stolen his last loaf of bread.

After a feeling-out session in the first two minutes of round one, Joshua loaded up and struck Ngannou with an explosive right to the jaw. The punch landed square on the chin like a grenade and immediately dropped Ngannou to the seat of his trunks, as his gold frills waved like a kite caught in a hurricane on his way down to the canvas.

Ngannou looked both hurt and confused and barely got up at the count of eight. To his credit, he did try to fight back and amazingly managed to make it to the sound of the bell.

In round two, Ngannou appeared to have blown off the cobwebs in his head, and valiantly tried to get back into the fight with some jabs and right hands of his own.

Little did he know he was headed for an ambush.

With less than a minute remaining in the round,  Ngannou dropped his left after a weak jab, and Joshua fired another missile-like right that smashed Ngannou down for the second time in the bout.

Seeing this, the mostly pro-Joshua crowd flew up onto their feet as Ngannou was sent sailing to his now familiar place on the ring floor. This time he was visibly shaken and barely made the count of ten when he rose weakly at the referee’s count of nine.

Again, for the second time in the bout, he bravely rose, but this time his eyes were filled with fear as he looked across the ring at Joshua as if he was climbing into the cage with a lion.

Before he could get his senses back, Joshua, with the skill of a trained assassin, drilled Ngannou with a vicious right to the sweet spot of the jaw. Ngannou was unconscious upon impact as his legs oddly bent and collapsed beneath him like a folding chair being put away after a wedding.

In a split second, Ngannou crashed hard to his back and lay motionless on the ring floor as if he was blown away by a howitzer during the Battle of the Somme.

The referee swiftly and immediately waved the fight over, knowing full well that Ngannou was never going to rise even if he counted to a thousand.

When asked after the fight about his knockout punch, Joshua responded, “It is what it is.”

With the impressive win, Joshua, the number 3 heavyweight in boxing, increased his record to 28-3 with 25 knockouts in dropping Ngannou to 0-2 as a boxer.

Ngannou, who pocketed about $20 million for the fight, far more than his highest UFC purse of $600,000, exclaimed, “I didn’t feel the punch,” referring to the last blow of the fight, is scheduled to return to MMA later this year with PFL.

Joshua, who earned around $60 million for the fight, said he wanted to fight the winner of the Usyk-Fury fight and said, “I just want to fight.”

Fury, who is scheduled to meet Oleksandr Usyk this upcoming May for all of boxing’s heavyweight laurels, was ringside for the fight, and had some kind words to say about Ngannou.

“There’s a lot of people who have not got the guts to go and chase their own dreams,” said Fury. “And it’s usually people who are not successful who hate on very successful people. So, for people who want to criticize Francis Ngannou for getting knocked out try boxing yourself. It’s a tough game. I would just say to Francis that he believed in his dream and followed it. He made a sh-t ton of money, which is fantastic to support his family. And he had a great journey. Keep going if he wants to box. He’s still undefeated as a champion in MMA. He can go back into MMA and destroy that world again.”

Fury also caught up with reporters after the event concluded and decided to throw a little bit of shade at Ngannou after all.

“It was a rude awakening for Ngannou,” said Fury. “You get a bit cocky like he did, and it was what it was. He got knocked out, and that’s what a boxer should do to an MMA fighter.”

After the fight, Anthony Joshua led the A-listers turning up at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix on Saturday as he enjoyed a day at the races just a day after his amazing KO win over Francis Ngannou. 

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MUHSIN ‘THE MUSLIM BOXER’ CASON

Undefeated Cruiserweight Muhsin Cason Returns to the Ring Against DeShon Webster on March 27 in Philly

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 9, 2024) – Undefeated cruiserweight “The Muslim Boxer” Muhsin Cason (12-0, 9 KOs) is set to step back into the ring on March 27, 2024, at the iconic Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, PA, for what promises to be a gritty battle against DeShon Webster (12-7-3, 6 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout is being promoted by Teflon Promotions.

Cason, who is advised by recognized manager Amer Abdallah, has been making waves in the cruiserweight division by remaining unbeaten. His upcoming bout against Webster presents another opportunity for Cason to showcase his skills and solidify his position as one of the most promising talents in the cruiserweight division.

“My journey to becoming a world champion continues on April 27th,” said Cason.  “I’m looking forward to stepping back into the ring and under those lights where I feel most comfortable.”

With a stable of great fighters that includes 3-division world champion Badou Jack, rising prospect Bryce Mills, and unbeaten bantamweight Khalid Twaiti, Abdallah feels Cason is ready to step up in competition in 2024.

“This is a big year for Muhsin as we plan to increase his level of competition and activity. He’s been working diligently in the gym awaiting the next call to go out…he’s always ready,” stated Abdallah, emphasizing the significance of this bout in Cason’s career. “This fight is a critical steppingstone for him, as it’s in his backyard and against a tough opponent. I typically don’t like fighters holding camp during Ramadan, but Muhsin was adamant about getting back in the ring as soon as he could. This is what he lives for.”

The Liacouras Center is located at 1776 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19121. Doors will open at 6:00 pm, with the first fight scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm.

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Undefeated Irish prospect Tommy Hyde

Fighting for first pro title this Saturday on St. Patrick’s Day weekend in San Francisco

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

SAN FRANCISCO (March 10, 2024) – Undefeated super middleweight prospect Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (7-0, 4 KOs) will be fighting for this first title as a professional boxer this Saturday on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, outside of San Francisco at Fox Theater in Redwood City, California.

The 24-year-old Hyde, fighting out of Cork, will challenge fellow Irishman, Craig “BTL” McCarthy (10-1-1, 2 KOs), the defending Boxing Union of Ireland Celtic Super Middleweight Champion, in the eight-round main event on a card presented by Westside Promotions.

“He’s (McCarthy) is a southpaw, fit and always in top shape, and he always comes to fight. He won his title at home on a show I was on in my fourth pro fight,” Hyde commented. “I was watching his fight with my coach, and he said, ‘We’ll get him next year,’ and here we are. I’m a boxer but if we get in the center of the ring, I’ll go toe-to-toe with him, and that will really get the Irish fans into it. It’s going to be a good night on St. Patrick’s Day Eve, the parade is on the same day as the show but in the afternoon.”

Like so many Irish boxers in the past – Wayne McCollough, Steve Collins, John Duddy, Kevin McBride, Patrick Hyland to name a few – the 2023 Irish Prospect of the Year, Hyde is now training in the United State. Tommy has had a six-week training camp preparing for this Saturday’s fight in Santa Monica (CA), under the direction of head trainer Pedro Nemes.

“Every camp has been different,” Hyde said. “I’m obsessed with learning every day and it’s been that way here. I’m getting on great with my trainer, Pedro Neme.”

A celebrated Irish amateur boxer, Hyde participated in more than 100 amateur matches, reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious World Junior Championships in 2015, in addition to capturing three Irish National Championships, three Celtic Cup titles and the 2019 Haringey Box Cup.

Hyde’s pro career is right on track.

“Brilliant,” Hyde explained the plan. “It’s exactly what we set out to do. We wanted seven six-rounders in my first year and got it. Then, the step-up this year to fight for a title in eight-rounders, and 10 by the end of this year. The plan is to collect titles and names and stay busy this year, fighting at my second home in Boston, San Francisco again, and back home in Cork, Ireland.

ABOUT NOWHERETOHYDE:  Founded in 2007 by Gary Hyde in Cork, Ireland, NoWhere2Hyde offers full services for professional boxers around the world. Hyde has managed numerous world-class boxers during his career including world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux, Youri Kalenga, Nassam N’Dam and Simpiwe Vetyeaka. In addition to his son, Gary presently manages Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (12-0, 7 KOs).

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O’Shaquie Foster outduels gallant Abraham Nova to retain championship

WBC super featherweight king scores 12^th-round knockdown in second defense

Story by Joseph Catena

New York, NY. – O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster punctuated his WBC super featherweight title defense over challenger Abraham “El Super” Nova with a knockdown in the waning seconds of the fight and won a split decision over his gutsy, but outgunned challenger at The Theater in Madison Square Garden.

Judge John McKaie’s 114-113 tally for Nova was overruled by fellow judges Mark Consentino and Kevin Morgan, both of whom scored the bout for the champion by scores of 115-112 and 116-111, respectively. The USA Boxing News agreed with Morgan and also scored it 116-111.

The 30-year-old Nova (23-2, 16 KO’s), of Albany, NY, battled evenly with Foster over the first half of the match. He was the aggressor and was able to land his potent right hand on several occasions. Sensing that he needed to change tactics, Foster, of Houston, TX, made a tactical move in the third and fourth rounds by switching to southpaw. The change worked in round three as Nova appeared confused and unable to mount any serious offensive against the fleet-footed Foster. Conversely, Foster, 30, used his right hand to jab and counter. He even landed a stinging left cross in the last 20 seconds of the session.

Nova did find a way to stifle his foe’s movement. In round four, he inadvertently stepped on the champion’s foot on several occasions, which threw Foster’s timing off. It may have been Nova’s best round of the fight. He blasted several hard blows to the body and also found Foster’s jaw with powerful, straight right hands.

One round later, the challenger nailed him with left jabs that snapped his head back, and later, he scored with a hard combination to the lithe Foster’s torso. Not to be outfought, Foster switched back to a conventional stance, and he also had some successful moments as he dug into Nova’s midsection. The tangling of feet and disruption of timing caused Nova to land an elbow to Foster’s left biceps. The champion yelled over to referee Steve Willis about the infraction. Foster’s handiwork was evidenced by a patch blood that stained Nova’s thick blonde beard.

Foster (22-2, 12 KO’s) grew more effective and controlled the action from the sixth-round forward. With Nova in hot pursuit, the Texan used his speed to land flurries to the chin and body and used all the ring. Nova proved to be a worthy challenger and never relented with his aggression, but it was apparent that Foster was a slightly different caliber foe. A quick, solid short left hand in the latter part of round twelve caught Nova on the jaw. Nova’s feet were together and couldn’t keep him upright.

Foster tallied his second successful title defense and 12^th consecutive career victory. He later indicated he would like to unify the 130-pound title.

 “My rhythm was off tonight. It’s all good,” said Foster. “We came home with the win, so I can’t complain. I’m a 12-round fighter and I know how to make judgements through the fight. So, he [Foster] came on strong in the beginning, but I found my rhythm and his timing, and then I started picking it off.”

  Afterwards, Abraham Nova remarked, “O’Shaquie is a great fighter. He did hit me, but I did slip (in the 12th round). I lost my balance. I wasn’t hurt. The fight would have been a draw if that hadn’t happened. This is boxing. I know they probably think I wasn’t that good. But you guys see I’m a great fighter. Hopefully you guys can see me here again. I’m a world-class contender. O’Shaquie, we can run it back. Let’s do it again. If not, I can fight Navarrete or anybody.”

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Jaouad Belmehdi, Fahad Al Bloushi and Sultan Al Nuami all winners in impressive Display of Arab boxing power

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” official results from Abu Dhabi

Story by Salvador Ramirez

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (March 6, 2024) – Arab boxing power was on display today as Moroccan super featherweight Jaouad “The Moroccan Bomber” Belmehdi (20-1-3, 9 KOs) defeated previously undefeated Ghanian Alfred Lamptey (13-1, 9 KOs) in the main event of the third edition of “Rising Stars Arabia,” which showcases rapidly developing Arab boxers on a worldwide platform.

The Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission.

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” was streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, outdoors from the picturesque Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

In a wonderfully matched, entertaining main event, 25-year-old Belmehdi, a former French Lightweight Champion, won his fourth fight in a row by way of a 10-round split decision (96-94, 96-94, 93-97) in a back-and-forth, legitimate Fight of the Year candidate. Belmehdi defeated Lamptey, 21, a former World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth Silver, World Boxing Organization (WBO) Youth and Ghana super featherweight champion.

Hometown Hero Al Bloushi Extends His Win Streak in Co-Main Event

In the co-main event, hometown favorite Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (14-1, 3 KOs) – the most experienced United Arab Emirates (UAE) pro boxer of all-time – extended his win streak to 13, taking a hard-fought eight-round decision over Venezuelan lightweight Andres Garcia (14-8-1, 11 KOs).

Another terrific UAE prospect, super flyweight Sultan Al Nuaimi (11-0, 7 KOs) stopped Venezuelan Eliu Canario (14-4, 11 KOs) in the fifth round in another spectacular performance in front of enthused local boxing fans.

Iraq’s light heavyweight prospect Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (3-0-1, 1 KO) suffered the first blemish on his pro record, fighting Russian Kharon Zapolsky (3-1-1, 1 KO) to a six-round majority draw.

Ugandan welterweight Isaac Zebra, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs) knocked out Ahmed Saad (4-3, 1 KO) in the opening round of their scheduled six-round bout.

Undefeated Indian welterweight Faizan Anwar (17-0, 9 KOs) registered a somewhat surprising opening-round knockout of former Egyptian Super Welterweight Champion Abdumonem “Braveheart” Saad (23-4-1, 11 KOs).

Egyptian cruiserweight Youssef Karrar (4-0, 3 KOs) recorded a third-round technical knockout over late replacement Yusuf Kizito (0-1), of Uganda, while Egyptian featherweight Mostafa Mohammed Fahmi Komsan (2-0, 1 KO) edged Guan Mu (1-3-1, 0 KOs), of China, by way of a six-round majority decision.

Also fighting on the undercard, Morocco welterweight Anas Hafiane improved to 3-0 with his second knockout, blasting out overmatched  Sajan Greece Makesh Daisy (0-3), of India, in round one, and previously undefeated United Arab Emirates super middleweight Fahad Alkhoori (3-1, 3 KOs) was upset by Ariemba Isalah Odhiambo (2-4, 0 KOs), of Kenya, who took a four-round majority decision

In the opener, pro-debuting Syrian heavyweight Kenan Marai (1-0, 1 KO) knocked out the Congo’s Eureka Mwamba Kabeya (0-2) at the end of the first round

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” was promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and hosted in Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

Complete results below

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (MARCH 6, 2024) –On Thursday night, June 6, Wise Owl Boxing will present the Butterfly Brawl. The Butterfly Brawl is an extension of the popular fundraising event Butterfly Ball, which has drawn powerhouses and A-Listers for several years. The event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Warrior Of the Light Foundation and City of Hope.

The event will take place at Academy LA in Hollywood. (6021 Hollywood BLVD, Los Angeles, 90028)

This year, in addition to presenting a major musical act, the event will feature a professional boxing card.

“I have been involved with this incredible evening since the inception and now to add a professional boxing event will only enhance the evening and bring out more and more people on June 6th,” said Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Boxing.

The Butterfly Ball was created to honor the life of music executive, Yassy Hosseini, who passed away from Breast Cancer in 2016 at the age of 39.

Besides music and boxing, the event will also hold an auction of items. If interested in donating an item to be included in the auction please email info@wiseowlboxing.com

Past artists that have appeared have been the Blackeyed Peas, Snoop-Dogg , Too Short and Anderson Paak.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE – Please email info@wiseowlboxing.com

News and updates will be forthcoming in the upcoming weeks.

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Story by Leonard Carmichael

LONG BEACH, CA (March 1, 2024) – Get ready for an electrifying night of boxing action as CBN Promotions proudly presents their second show of 2024, set to take place at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. In the 8-round super welterweight main event, local favorite Louis Lopez (14-2-2, 5 KOs), hailing from Corona, CA, will step into the ring to face off against the undefeated Jesus Resendiz (8-0-1, 6 KOs) from San Diego, CA. With both fighters eager to prove themselves on the main-event stage, this showdown is sure to be a slugfest from start to finish.

Adding to the excitement, the co-main event will feature a compelling 6-round super welterweight bout showcasing Nelson Oliva (10-0, 8 KOs) representing Los Angeles, CA, against Franyerson Puerta (5-3, 5 KOs) fom Denver, CO. With Oliva’s impressive record and knockout power, fans can expect fireworks as he looks to maintain his undefeated streak.

The entire event will be broadcast live on Fubo Sports and on tape delay on Fox Deportes and Estrella TV. Doors open and at 5:00 pm PT with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $55, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling Ticketon at 800-688-8080, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com or www.ticketon.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

“We are excited to bring another exciting night of boxing to Thunder Studios,” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “With a stacked lineup of talented fighters and 50/50 matchups, this event promises to deliver another unforgettable experience for fight fans in Long Beach and beyond.”

“Get ready for an amazing ride as we improve our boxing events and bring them to more people,” said Rolando Nichols, President of Thunder Studios. “We want to welcome the Long Beach community and nearby areas to join us for our shows. It’s a fun, family-friendly environment where everyone can have a great time watching exciting boxing matches.”

With Thunder Studios serving as the backdrop for this epic night of boxing, attendees can expect top-notch production values and a lively atmosphere that will keep them on the edge of their seats throughout the evening. 

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Bantamweight George Navarro (8-3-1, 4 KOs), from Los Angeles, CA, vs. MJ Bo (9-5-2, 5 KOs), from Manila, Philippines. (6-rounds).

Super featherweight Eric Mondragon (8-1-1, 4 KOs) of Maywood, CA, will face Jenel Lausa (9-3-1, 5 KOs), from Manila, Philippines. (6-rounds).

Super lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (5-0, 2 KOs) from Jurupa Valley, CA, will face Walter Raul Saravia (4-7, 1 KO) from Catamarca, Argentina. (6-rounds).

Opening up the show will be bantamweight Peter Henry Acosta (Pro Debut), from Santa Ana, CA, vs. an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, Shoe Palace – Community comes first, and Northgate Market.

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Teofino Lopez outduels Jamaine Ortiz in decision win in successful defense of WBO junior welterweight championship

“The Takeover” retains jr. welter title over slick challenger

Story by Joseph Catena

 

Las Vegas, Nevada. Teofino “The Takeover” Lopez wants to bring entertainment back to boxing. A master showman, the WBO jr. welterweight champion entered the ring at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas against challenger Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz with a circuslike atmosphere.

Literally.

The 26-yeard-old from Brooklyn, NY, was accompanied by clowns on stilts, a juggler, and a sword swallower, among others. His gaudy top hat and red blazer trimmed in black and gold, along with his aforementioned entourage, made for quite a sizzling sideshow. It was, however, far more grandiose than his narrow 12-round unanimous decision over Ortiz, who frustrated the champion from the opening bell.

Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KO’s), used a southpaw style and constant movement to foil the hard-hitting Lopez, and never allowed him to establish any serious momentum. The challenger, 139, set the tone in the first round as he repeatedly circled his foe and danced, while flicking out stiff right jabs at the aggressive champion. Lopez assumed the role of stalker but could not cut the ring off to negate Ortiz’s activity and ring science.

During the third round, the champion landed a blow to the midriff in the early going. Ortiz remained technical and boxed. Any time Lopez landed a clean shot – which was rare – the impact was nullified as “The Technician” backed away. Ortiz landed an inside uppercut later in the round, which drew a laugh from the champion, and maybe from some of the clowns on hand.

Lopez (20-1, 13 KO’s) found some brief success in round four with a left hook to the face. Much to his dismay, he was unable to follow up with any further damage, “The Takeover” decided to back up in lieu of pursuing his floating foe, and he subsequently waved Lopez to draw him into a brawl. The challenger refused the bait and landed a quick combination of his own as well as a right hook. Neither man landed any severe blows, and neither could assume total control over the other. Ortiz, of Worcester, MA, stuck with his game plan of moving and boxing, while the New Yorker doggedly followed him, hoping to nail him.

An early exchange in round six quickly devolved into more of the same: Lopez chasing and Ortiz escaping. In the final 10 seconds of the round, Lopez missed his target with a pair of right hands and gave a verbal lashing to the challenger for not engaging in a brawl. In the seventh round, the fight took a brief dramatic turn. The champ landed a right to the abdomen, and shortly afterward, he leaned in while throwing another punch. While doing so, he inadvertently butted Ortiz, who immediately began to bleed from a slice on his left eyelid. Though accidental, it was Lopez’s most effective moment up to that juncture of the match and caused referee Harvey Dock to pause the action. This was Lopez’s best round, and he even landed a pair of rights to the chin after the action resumed, and he ended the round with a glancing right uppercut that made Ortiz bleed from the mouth.

It appeared as though Lopez had finally narrowed the distance on his foe in round eight, and Ortiz, 27, moved less. By round nine, the cut on the eyelid was no longer a factor, and “The Technician” was back to dancing. During the final three rounds, each junior welterweight had an occasional moment of success, but neither could land a game changing punch. Judges Tim Cheatham and David Sutherland, both scored it 115 to 113 and Steve Weisfeld tallied 117 to 111. The USA Boxing News scored it a draw at 114 to 114.

It was Lopez’s first successful title defense, albeit a frustrating one, against a crafty foe, who refused to be taken over by any means.

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Boxing Insider delivers another action-packed NYC show on March 7 at Sony Hall

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

NEW YORK, NY – (February 29, 2024) — Sony Hall in Times Square has become the place to go for pro boxing in the greatest city in the world. BoxingInsider Promotions has been delivering at that location – eight times in their first 14 months, in fact – and they’re looking to do it again on Thursday, March 7 (with a 7:30 PM start time) streamed live on BoxingInsider.com.

There’s an action-packed show on tap at the intimate venue, with a lot of local flavor.

Larry Goldberg of BoxingInsider has committed himself to providing a launching pad for the next generation of great local fighters in a city that is famous for its boxing history. He is keeping boxing very much alive in Manhattan. And he has some intriguing matchups lined up for the March 7th show.

* A Gleason’s Gym standout, featherweight Ariel Lopez (20-1-1), is fighting Gregorio Lebron (24-6) in what promises to be an action packed eight-round main event. Lopez, originally from Mexico and now fighting out of Brooklyn, won the WBC Latino title at 122 pounds in February 2022, winning a decision over Wilner Soto. Lebron, a native of the Dominican Republic, fought for the WBC world flyweight crown in 2018, traveling to Kiev (Ukraine) in an unsuccessful attempt against Artem Dalakian. Ariel Lopez will be defending his WBC Latin Continental title.

 * In a highly anticipated female co-feature, Brooklyn featherweight Chiara “Speedy” Dituri (7-0), who also trains at Gleason’s, takes on Jaica Pavilus (3-6-1) of Harlem. The well-traveled Pavilus, a rough-and-tumble southpaw, will be facing her sixth undefeated opponent in a seven-bout stretch. It should be noted that she has two wins and a draw against those unbeaten foes. So Dituri is in for a battle.

* Light heavyweight Emmet Brennan (2-0) hails from Dublin, where he represented Ireland in the Tokyo Olympics as a light heavyweight and former Celtic Champion. He’s making his US debut against Devaun Lee (11-10-1) of Queens in an eight-round match.

* Heavyweight Pryce Taylor (2-0) of Brooklyn, a two-time finalist in the US Championships as an amateur who has fought nine times in Team Combat League, will compete in front of hometown fans in a four-rounder against the 2-time veteran TCL veteran Kenyon Walker (1-0) of San Antonio, TX in a four-round match.

More bouts will be added. Stay tuned for subsequent announcements.

Tickets are priced at $95, $150, $200 and $325, and are available at Ticketweb (https:// www.ticketweb.com/event/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-sony-hall-tickets/ 13430053). Sony Hall is located at 235 W 46th Street in Manhattan.

For those who can’t experience the event at Sony Hall, the March 7 show will be shown, free of charge, on BoxingInsider’s streaming platform (https:// videos.boxinginsider.com/).

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Rising Prospect Guillermo Gutierrez Signs with Eruption Boxing Management

Story by Salvador Ramerez

SAN ANTONIO, TX (February 29, 2024) – Rising undefeated super flyweight prospect, Guillermo Gutierrez (10-0, 1 KO) from San Antonio, Texas, announces his official signing with Eruption Boxing Management, under the guidance of President Gwen Legge. This managerial agreement marks a significant step forward for Gutierrez’s career, positioning him for future success in the ring.

Hailing from the boxing-rich city of San Antonio, Gutierrez is poised to carry on the proud tradition of world-class talent emerging from the region. With an unblemished record, Guiterrez feels he has the talent to become a world champion.

“I am thrilled to join forces with Eruption Boxing Management,” said Gutierrez, a seasoned boxer with over 120 amateur fights under his belt. “With Gwen Legge at the helm, I am confident that we can achieve great things together. San Antonio has some of the best boxers, and I am honored to follow in the footsteps of champions like Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez and Mario ‘El Azteca’ Barrios. I am ready to work hard and make my mark in the ring.”

“Guillermo Gutierrez is an exceptional talent with immense potential,” Legge, said as she’s really excited to have Gutierrez join her team. “I’m excited to add him to my roster of promising fighters and help guide his career to new heights. San Antonio has produced some of the sport’s brightest stars, and we believe Guillermo has what it takes to join their ranks.”

Gutierrez will be heading to California next week where he will train alongside renowned coach Robert Garcia and his stable of fighters. With a wealth of experience in the amateur ranks, Gutierrez is eager to elevate his game while training at the Garcia Boxing Academy. By training with Garcia and his team, Gutierrez aims to fine-tune his skills and hone his craft in preparation for the next phase of his career.

“I’m going to California with the mindset to learn as much as possible from Robert Garcia and his guys,” continued Gutierrez. “I want to test my skills against some of the best fighters in the world. This trip will make me a better fighter, that I know for sure.”

Gutierrez’s journey to California comes at an opportune time, as he gears up for his highly anticipated return to the ring. Scheduled for March 16, 2024, Gutierrez is set to compete for the NABF Jr. title, marking his first shot at a regional belt. With his sights set on becoming the next world champion from San Antonio, Gutierrez is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for success.

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Moroccan super featherweight Jaouad Belmehdi embodies spirit of the

“Rising Stars Arabia” pro boxing series

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” this Saturday in Abu Dhabi

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (February 29, 2024) – Moroccan super featherweight Jaouad “The Moroccan Bomber” Belmehdi (19-1-3, 9 KOs) embodies the spirit of the innovative “Rising Stars Arabia” pro boxing series, which showcases rapidly developing Arab boxers on a worldwide platform, veterans and prospects alike.

Belmehdi takes on undefeated Alfred Lamptey (13-0, 9 KOs), of Ghana, in the 10-round main event this Saturday (March 2) on the third installment of “Rising Stars Arabia,” under the stars at beautiful Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” will be streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, as well as broadcast on Abu Dhabi Sports TV, starting at 8 p.m. UAEST.

Belmehdi is a former French Lightweight Champion who has won his last three fights, after suffering the only loss of his pro career 1 ½ years ago to Gary Culley (14-0) at Wembley Arena in the United Kingdom. riding a three-fight win streak. His most notable victories to date have been against 17-1 James Chereji, 13-1-1 Sebri Sediri (TKO1), and 19-2 Meyyl Vegas (TKO4).

Morocco has produced one world champion, 1988 Olympian Khalid Rahilou (37-5, 16 KOs – 1988-2002), the former World Boxing Association (WBA) Junior Welterweight World Champion, plus world title challengers such as bantamweight Luis Romero (158-19-6, 78 KOs – 1942-58) and heavyweight Lucien Rodriguez (39-12-1, 21 KOs – 1973-86). Other top Moroccan boxers through the years have included 2016 Olympian and 2015 World Amateur Championship gold medalist Mohammed Rabii (pro record 10-0, 5  KOs – 2017-19) and super featherweight Moussa Gholam (21-1, 13 KOs), who knocked out Lunga Sitemela (15-1) in the fourth round at “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution)

this past January.

The 25-year-old Belmehdi started boxing in his hometown of Beziers at the age of 10 because of his love of martial arts. He didn’t model himself after any particular fighter, but he greatly admired Thomas Hearns, Jean-Baptiste Mendy, and Mike Tyson. 

“It’s a great pleasure for me and, above all, an honor to be able to represent the Arab people,” Belmehdi said. “I think an impressive win for me will results on a significant rise in world rankings and, more importantly, better opportunities to come, God willing.”

Lamptey, 21, is a dangerous opponent for Belmehdi, arguably the second-toughest opponent he’s fought. Lamptey is a former World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth Silver, World Boxing Organization (WBO) Youth and Ghana super featherweight champion.

“I enjoy taking on challengers and facing adversity,” Belmehdi spoke about fighting Lamptey in the main event. “I don’t know much more specifically other than he (Lamptey) he is young and hungry. It’s up to me to prove that I have more experience than him and that it will be difficult for him to win.”

The Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission.

The most experienced Emirati boxer of all-time, hometown favorite Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (13-1, 3 KOs), has won 12 consecutive fights heading into Saturday’s eight- round, co-featured event against Venezuelan lightweight Andres Garcia (14-7-1, 11 KOs).

Another United Arab Emirates favorite, super flyweight Sultan Al Nuaimi (10-0, 6 KOs), puts his undefeated record on the line versus Venezuelan Eliu Canario (14-3, 11 KOs) in a 10-round match

Highly regarded Iraq light heavyweight prospect Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (3-0, 1 KO) meets Kharon Zapolsky (3-1, 1 KO), of Russia, in a six-rounder.

Egyptian super welterweight Ramy Magdi (3-2-1, 0 KOs) throws down with Issac Zebra, Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs), of Uganda, in a six-round fight, and former Egyptian Super Welterweight Champion Abdumonem “Braveheart” Said (23-3-1, 11 KOs) faces undefeated Faizan Anwar (16-0, 8 KOs), of India, in a 10-round confrontation.

Other undercard bouts Egyptian cruiserweight Youssef Karrar (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. pro debuting Ukrainian Mykyta Ionin, and Egyptian featherweight Mostafa Mohammed Fahmi Komsan (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Guan Mu (1-2-1, 0 KOs), of China, in a pair of six-round bouts.

Opening the event in four-round matches are Morocco welterweight Anas Hafiane (2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA, United Arab Emirates Fahad Alkhorri (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Ariemba Isalah Odhiambo (1-4, 0 KOs), of Kenya, and Moroccan welterweight Anas Hafiane (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Sajan Greece Makesh Daisy (0-2), of United Arab Emirates.

Card subject to change.

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” is promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and is hosted in Abu Dhabi in partne rship with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

Tickets to “Rising Stars Arabia 3” are on sale now at https://swiy.co/rsa3 . Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com.

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Undefeated Prospect Khalid Twaiti Looks to Make a Name for Himself in Super Bantamweight Division

Story by Leonard Carmichael

BROOKLYN, NY (February 29, 2024) – Rising super bantamweight prospect, Khalid Twaiti (13-0, 5 KOs), hailing from Brooklyn, New York, added another impressive win to his undefeated record after defeating Ira Terry (28-30, 16 KOs) at the John T Rhodes Sports Center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, on February 16, 2024. Advised by recognized boxing advisor Amer Abdallah, Twaiti is quickly being known as one of the top prospects in the super bantamweight division.

In a hard-fought battle, Twaiti showed great resilience, outclassing Terry over the course of the fight. With his precision punching and ring intelligence, Twaiti secured a well-deserved victory, further cementing his reputation as a skilled boxer puncher.

Reflecting on his recent triumph, Twaiti expressed his growing confidence with each fight. “It felt great to be back in the ring with a veteran. I plan to fight multiple times this year and be line for a world title shot by the end of the year InshaAllah”

Twaiti has been on an upward trajectory, with each fight showcasing his development as a professional fighter. Abdallah, impressed by Twaiti’s progress, emphasized his satisfaction with the young prospect’s performance.

“I was happy seeing Khalid get some rounds in and shake some of the ring rust off,” said Abdallah. “As long as he’s active, he will be a force to be reckoned within the division. We have big plans for him, domestically and internationally. He has a great team around him, including former 140-pound world champion Sadam Ali, who is instrumental in his progress.”

Looking ahead, Twaiti is gearing up for his next challenge, as he looks to get back in the ring in the next couple of months. With his sights set on furthering his undefeated streak, Twaiti remains focused and determined to make his mark in the super bantamweight bantamweight division.

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Pueblo to host Paris 2024 Olympic Games preview at  2024 USA Boxing International Invitational

Story by Alexander R.  Rinaldi

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo, (February 29, 2024) – USA Boxing will return to the Pueblo Convention Center in Pueblo, Colo., April 16-20, for the 2024 USA Boxing International Invitational, which will be a preview of the boxers who will represent Team USA this summer at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, as well as other top boxers from around the world.

This marks the second time Pueblo has hosted USA Boxing’s International Invitational, as the city hosted the inaugural event in 2022, where Team USA won 15 medals, five gold, three silver and seven bronze.

“After a successful event in 2022, USA Boxing is excited to host its second International Invitational competition in Pueblo,” stated Matt Johnson, USA Boxing High Performance Director. “This competition will feature many qualified Olympians, which will make for a world-class event that will be critical to our team’s development and preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics this summer.”

“This will be our third year in a row getting to work with USA Boxing, and we couldn’t be more excited to host them at the Pueblo Convention Center and in the City of Pueblo once again,” said Kevin Ortiz, Pueblo Convention Center General Manager.

“The Pueblo Community is grateful that USA Boxing has come back year after year, and we appreciate the partnership we have built.  This year, in particular, is special in that we are not only hosting USA Boxing Olympic hopefuls but also getting the opportunity to host Olympians from several different countries as they gear up for the Paris Summer Olympics. We are excited that USA Boxing picked Pueblo to host this elite competition.”

The invitational will give spectators a close-up look at the boxers who will step foot in the ring this summer in Paris, including all five of the boxers who qualified for the Olympics at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games, including Pan American Games gold medalist Joshua Edwards (Houston, Texas) and Jahmal Harvey (Oxon Hill, Md.); as well as, Morelle McCane (Cleveland, Ohio), who won gold at the 2022 USA Boxing International Invitational and a silver medal at the Pan American Games; Jennifer Lozano (Laredo, Texas), Pan American Games silver medalist; and Jajaira Gonzalez, Pan American Games bronze medalist.

“The City of Pueblo is excited to welcome the USA Boxing International Invitational again and to have the opportunity to host some of the most world-class, high-ranking athletes,” said Mayor of Pueblo Heather Graham. “This event allows our residents and visitors to see Olympians and some of the highest levels of boxing, all from the comfort of our own city at the Pueblo Convention Center. I personally enjoy seeing such elite level athletes compete and invite my fellow Puebloans to watch and support the competition while the two-week event is in our community.”

The remaining eight USA Boxing’s 2024 High Performance team members are expected to participate in the event, such as 2021 Elite Men’s World Champion Robby Gonzales (Las Vegas,Nev.), 2022 USA Boxing international Invitational Champion Emilio Garcia (Laredo, Texas), as well as 2020 Olympian Naomi Graham (Fayetteville, N.C.).

USA Boxing’s High Performance squad members will also compete in the event, with an entire Team USA roster to be announced in the coming weeks.  

This year’s event will bring top boxers from over 15 countries worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Nigeria, the Philippines and Sweden. A complete tournament roster and list of countries scheduled to participate in the event will be announced leading up to the tournament. 

Media hoping to attend and cover the event may submit their information for a media credential by clicking here.

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David Morrell Jr. Assess Edgar Berlanga

“I’ll Knock Him Out in One Round”

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

OUSTON, TX (February 29, 2024) – In a bold statement, undefeated WBA World Champion David Morrell Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) has declared that rising star Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs), who is fresh off his sixth-round knockout over Padraig McCrory (18-1, 9 KOs), is nowhere near his level and that he would dispatch him in just one round if given the chance.

Morrell Jr., coming off a string of impressive victories, since his dominant performance over Alantez Fox to capture the WBA World title, minced no words in his assessment of Berlanga’s recent success.

“Berlanga is simply not on my level,” said Morrell Jr. “I’ve watched his fights, and I see nothing that worries me. Berlanga sucks, and I would destroy him. If we ever step into the ring together, I’ll knock him out in one round, guaranteed.”

With his sights set on solidifying his status as one of the most formidable champions in the division, Morrell Jr. remains fearless by any challenge that comes his way.

“I’m here to prove that I’m the best,” concluded Morrell Jr. “Whether it’s Berlanga, or anyone else, I’ll be ready to step into the ring and show the world what I’m made of. I’m the best fighter in the super middleweight division, and soon everyone will know that.”

As anticipation builds for his next move, fans eagerly await Morrell Jr.’s next title defense, eager to witness his explosive talents in action once again.

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Undefeated Dina Thorslund bludgeons late sub-Mary Romero in 8 to retain WBO/WBC World Female Bantam Title at the Royal Arena in Copenhagen

Story by Per-Ake Persson

February 2024- Copenhagen, Denmark. It was one of those shows where just about everything that could go wrong went wrong. It started when WBC mandatory challenger Seren Cetin arrived in Copenhagen with a fresh cut that had been closed with six stitches. She almost bragged about it as she showed it off in social media. The idea from Team Cetin from Turkey was apparently to have the stitches removed, go through the fight and hope for the cut to open early which would lead to a stoppage, a technical draw, and a lucrative rematch – in Turkey.

It was also a fact that the WBC Turkish representative is in a personal relationship with Cetin’s coach.

Someone else at the WBC got a hold of the story and stopped Cetin from fighting and from then on, a frantic search began for an opponent: a female bantamweight good enough to challenge Dina Thorslund and they finally found Mary Romero in Spain who was in training for another fight and almost down to bantamweight. She agreed to take the fight and stepped on a plane Friday, arrived late and almost made the weight late Friday evening.

Then Georgian heavyweight Tamaz Zadishvili went AWOL and was apparently arrested, then released and went AWOL again and could not be found so his fight against Dane Mathias Hansen had to be cancelled.

Other than that, all went well and Dina Thorslund (21-0, 9 KO’s) put on a dominating performance and stopped Romero 1:26 into the eighth round. Romero (9-5, 2 KO’s) was hurt by a right uppercut and turned away from the action without going down leaving referee Stephane Nicolo with no option but to stop the one-sided fight. Romero, all considered, put on a good performance but tired down the stretch. It was scored 70-63 twice and a strange 69-64, all in favor of the champion.

Cruiserweight Hamza Hussein, 6-0, outscored Serbian Stefan Mihailov, who is better than his record of 7-22-1. Mihailov was floored in the third but got up and gave the Danish prospect a solid workout.

 Thorbjorn Boudigaard, also a cruiserweight, moved to 3-1 when he knocked out Nikola Mandic, 0-2-1, with a perfect right hand counter. The fight was over at 2:15 of the first round.

Super lightweight Francis Fordjour turned pro and looked good in winning over Georgian veteran Ruben Movesiani (15-27-1). Movsesiani was floored twice by body shots, and it was ten and out the second time. It was over at 2:53 of the first round.

Former WBC and IBO super welter champ Mikaela Lauren, 48, came back and got an easy win when Mariami Nutsubidze, 1-5, retired after the first round with an injured shoulder. Lauren, 33-6, did not impress during the short time the fight lasted. Nutsubidze, from the Georgian Republic, was a very late sub. The fight was made at welter and scheduled for 8×2.

 

 

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4 Division World Champion & Hall of Famer Juan Manuel Marquez Confirmed for Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend, Saturday May 4, in Las Vegas

Box Fan Expo – the Largest Boxing Fan Event held in the U.S – the Ultimate Boxing Fan Experience

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

Las Vegas (February 29, 2024) – 4-Division world champion and Hall of Famer Juan Manuel Marquez has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with a mega fight that will take place later that evening in Las Vegas, featuring boxing star Canelo Alvarez.

Marquez will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. 

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III.  

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Marquez will make his fourth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Marquez will also have merchandise on sale at his booth, and fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as “Dinamita” 

Marquez joins Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced. 

About Juan Manuel Marquez

Marquez is a Mexican former professional boxer who competed from 1993 to 2014. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in the class of 2020. Marquez is the third Mexican boxer (after Erik Morales and Jorge Arce) to become a world champion in four weight classes, having held nine world championships including the WBA (Super), IBF and WBO featherweight titles between 2003 and 2007; the WBC super featherweight title from 2007 to 2008; the WBA (Super), WBO, Ring magazine and lineal lightweight titles between 2008 and 2012; and the WBO junior welterweight title from 2012 to 2013. In a career that spanned over twenty years, Marquez was known for being a fast and highly technical boxer who was exceptionally skilled at combinations and counterpunches, yet also willing to engage in slugfests with opponents. He was also credited for his toughness, and never lost a fight by stoppage. His most notable bouts include his four-fight saga with Manny Pacquiao and his fight against fellow Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera. Marquez is considered to be one of the greatest Mexican boxers of all time, and is ranked by BoxRec as the 30th greatest boxer of all time, as well as second best Mexican fighter of all time, pound for pound. In 2008, The Ring ranked him as the world’s second-best active boxer, pound for pound.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

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Use the Australian World Champion’s exclusive code TSZYU24LV to receive 2 tickets for the price of 1. Tickets can be purchased HERE.
 
Later this month, the Australian takeover continues when Tszyu makes his Las Vegas debut squaring off against two-division champion Keith “One Time” Thurman topping a PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena. This stacked night of boxing will also feature WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in the co-main event. Tickets for Thurman vs. Tszyu are on sale now and can be purchased HERE.

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WBA No. 1 Super Flyweight mandatory challenger John “Scrappy” Ramirez  believes in the process for his overdue world title shot against champion Kazuto Ioka

 LOS ANGELES (February 20, 2024) – Rising super flyweight star John “Scrappy” Ramirez has patiently waited to learn about his impending world title shot against World Boxing Association (WBA) Super Flyweight World Champion Kazuto Ioka (31-2-1, 16 KOs). On January 13^th, the WBA ordered both camps to negotiate an agreement by February 15th or Ioka vs. Ramirez would go to purse bid.

News recently broke (BoxingScene.com), however, that Ioka has reportedly petitioned the WBA, through Shisei Promotions, for permission to next fight lineal and World Boxing Council (WBC) Super Flyweight World Champion Juan Francisco Estrada (44-3, 28 KOs) in a unification fight, targeted for July 3 in Tokyo, just as the WBA-ordered deadline approached for Ioka to come to terms with his mandatory challenger, Ramirez.

“It would be easy to get frustrated when you don’t get what you want,” Ramirez explained, “but I remind myself to trust the process. I know my team is doing its part and I am, too. It’s all about trusting the process and I’m a strong believer in that. I need to stay patient and focused in the gym, on my vision and my dream.

“I’m an old school fighter. After I win the belt, I want to fight three, four, five times a year defending it before I make the move to 118 (pounds). I’ve also had several conversations with the WBA and its committee, and I believe this fight will be next.

“I’ve been saying all along that I’ll fight him in Japan, I’d fight him on the moon. He’s the champion and I’m willing to fight him anywhere. I’m not getting frustrated and know that I need to stay smart. The beauty of the journey is I don’t have all the answers. But I get it. If I’m Ioka, I wouldn’t want to fight me either. He knows the game and knows I can send the 34-year-old into retirement.”

After enduring a 10-plus month wait to fight in a (WBA) title eliminator, “Scrappy” demolished WBA No. 7-ranked Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs) last October 21st, dramatically flooring him twice to close the DAZN show in the fourth and final round. “Scrappy” was elevated to the No. 1-ranked, mandatory challenger position for Ioka. A four-division world champion, Ioka was crowned the WBA super flyweight world champion after defeating defending champion Joshua Franco by way of a 12-round unanimous decision (116-112 twice and 115-113) last June in a rematch of their previous draw.

When Ioka vs. Estrada failed to materialize for this past New Year’s Eve in Tokyo, Ioka was allowed to make a voluntary defense against No. 8-rated Josber Perez(20-3), who was stopped in the seventh round. Estrada, incidentally, hasn’t fought since December 3, 2022, when he defeated Roman Gonzalez by a 12-round majority decision in the finale of their trilogy.

Now, Ioka wants to fight Estrada at the expense of “Scrappy” Ramirez. The hope for Ramirez is that the WBA will deny Ioka’s request and order him to fight “Scrappy” within 90-days or be stripped of his world title belt.

“I’ve been saying for a long time, ‘and the new champion’,” Ramirez summed things up. “I actually feel like the champion right now. I just don’t have the belt to prove it, but all that’s left for me is to go get that WBA belt.”

All “Scrappy” needs is the world title shot he’s earned.

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Tiger Johnson Remains Undefeated with a First-Round Stoppage over Paulo Galdino in New York

NEW YORK (February 20, 2024) – Tiger Johnson was impressive in stopping Paulo Galdino in the opening round of their eight-round junior welterweight bout.

The bout took place at The Madison Square Garden Theater and was streamed live on ESPN+

In round one, Johnson landed a blistering right hand that set up a perfect left uppercut that put Galdino down. With Galdino hurt, Johnson landed a hard right that sent Galdino back on the ropes and the fight was stopped at 2:49.

Johnson, 140.4 lbs of Cleveland is 12-0 with six knockouts. Galdino, 141.8 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 13-8-2.

Johnson, 25 is managed by Split-T Management and is promoted by Top Rank.

Photo: Courtesy: Mikey Williams/Top Rank

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WBC #1 Ranked Super Welterweight Charles Conwell Signs With Golden Boy Promotions

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (February 20, 2024)– WBC #1 ranked super welterweight Charles Conwell has inked a promotional deal with Golden Boy Promotions.

“I’m so excited for Charles to be represented by Golden Boy Promotions. Charles is at a point in his career where he’s at the cusp of a world title opportunity, and we’re excited to have Golden Boy in our corner to get us that world title shot that Charles has been dreaming about that since he was a kid,” said Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Boxing.

Said Conwell, “I am excited to get back in the ring. It’ been over a year. I am definitely looking forward to fighting for the world title in the near future. 154 is a hot division, and I fit in right at the top, and I am happy to have Golden Boy Promotions in my corner as I continue my journey to become a world champion.”

Conwell, 26 years-old of Cleveland was a 2016 United States Olympian, has a record of 18-0 with 13 knockouts.

Conwell is the former USBA and WBC Silver Super Welterweight champion.

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“One Night In Millstreet”

U.S. Documentary Premiere

March 7^th in New York City

World Boxing Champion Steve “Celtic Warrior” Collins to Attend

 

Story by Joseph Rinaldi
NEW YORK CITY (February 20, 2024) – “One Night In Millstreet,” starring now retired boxers Steve “Celtic Warrior” Collins and Chris “Simply The Best” Eubank, will make its United States premier on March 7^th, starting at 7 p.m. ET,, in association with Craic Fest 2024, at Village East Cinema in Manhattan, New York.

“One Night In Millstreet,” directed by Andrew Gallimore and written by Lydia Monin, is a boxing documentary about the 1995 world title fight on St. Patrick’s Day weekend in the countryside town of Millstreet, Ireland, between popular Irish fighter Collins (28-3) and defending champion Eubank (41-0-2), of Great Britain, following weeks of their intense pre-fight appearances and press conferences to promote their world title fight.

“Steve Collins embodies the spirit of what Craic Fest is all about,”  Festival Manager Terence Mulligan said.

The documentary, which co-stars Hall of Fame Irish boxer Barry “The Clones Cyclone” McGuigan and legendary British promoter Barry Hearn, revolves around the period in which Ireland was emerging from an economic depression towards an unprecedented boom.

Collins captured the World Boxing Organization (WBO) World Super Middleweight title from unbeaten, defending champion Benn by way of an exciting 12-round unanimous decision (117-113, 114-112 X 2), much to the overwhelming delight of passionate hometown fans. Collins won a rematch the following September, taking a 12-round split decision from Eubank.

Born in Cabra, Ireland, Collins lives in Dublin, and he retired from the ring in 1997 as WBO World Super Middleweight Champion with a 36-3 (21 KOs) pro record, making six successful title defenses, including two versus Nigel Benn. Eubank retired a year later with a 45-5-2 (23 KOs) record. Both Collins and Eubank were two-division WBO world champions having also been middleweight title holders.

Collins and Gallimore will attend the U.S. premiere in New York City and be available to answer questions after the screening. “One Night In Millstreet,” presented by Powers Irish Whiskey, will host an afterparty at Solas Bar (9^th St.).

Attendees must RSVP online at https://www.thecraicfest.com and be 21 or older.

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Andres Cortes Seeks World Title Shot After Destroying Bryan Chevalier on ESPN

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 20, 2024) – Top Rank’s rising star, Andres “Savage” Cortes (21-0, 12 KOs), delivered a stunning performance at The Theater at Madison Square Garden this past Friday, ending the 12-fight winning streak of WBO #4 ranked contender, Bryan Chevalier (20-2-11, 6 KOs), in spectacular fashion. Cortes secured a 4th round TKO victory after a dominant display in the ring, prompting Chevalier’s corner to throw in the towel.

From the opening bell, Cortes showcased his superior skills and relentless aggression, dictating the pace of the fight and landing devastating combinations. By the end of the third round, it was clear that Chevalier was struggling to keep up with Cortes’ relentless onslaught.

In the fourth round, Cortes continued to press forward, overwhelming Chevalier with a barrage of punches. Sensing his fighter’s distress, Chevalier’s corner made the difficult decision to throw in the towel, conceding defeat and handing Cortes the victory.

With this impressive win, Cortes not only ended Chevalier’s impressive winning streak but also captured the WBO Inter-Continental Super Featherweight title. Additionally, he successfully defended his WBC USA Silver title, further solidifying his status as one of the top contenders in the super featherweight division.

“This victory means everything to me,” said Cortes. “I trained tirelessly for this moment, and to come out on top against a tough opponent like Chevalier was very rewarding. I want to thank my brother and trainer Luis, my entire team, along with my promoter Top Rank for all they did behind the scenes. I’m hoping that this win will catapult me to top five in the WBO and top ten in the WBC.”

Looking ahead, Cortes has his sights set on bigger challenges, targeting WBC champion O’Shaquie Foster and WBO titlist Emanuel Navarrete.

“I’m ready to take on the best in the division,” Cortes declared. “Foster and Navarrete, I’m coming for you. I want to prove that I belong among the elite, and I won’t stop until I have those belts around my waist.”

Cortes’ victory was made even sweeter by the fact that it was broadcast live on ESPN, allowing him to showcase his skills in front of a national audience. With his star on the rise, Cortes has cemented his status as a man to be feared in the super featherweight division. 

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PBC’S INAUGURAL EVENT ON PRIME VIDEO KICKS OFF  WITH TWO ACTION-PACKED MATCHUPS ON SATURDAY, MARCH 30

Rising Middleweight Star Elijah Garcia Takes on Contender Kyrone Davis
 
Plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio Cesar Martinez Battles Unbeaten Contender Angelino Cordova

 PBC on Prime Video Streams Live and for Free at
6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

Leads Up to Pay-Per-View Event at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
Headlined by Keith Thurman vs. Tim Tszyu & Rolando Romero vs. Isaac Cruz Showdowns

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

LAS VEGAS – February 20, 2024 – Two showdowns featuring a rising star in his toughest test to date and a flyweight world champion against an undefeated contender will highlight the first PBC on Prime Video show taking place Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card. 
 
The live streaming presentation will be topped by rising middleweight Elijah Garcia taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction, and will also feature WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio Cesar Martinez defending his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova to kick off the action at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.
 
These bouts will lead into the inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and topped by two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman dueling rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event, plus WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event.
 
Rounding out the pay-per-view lineup is Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora meeting streaking contender Serhii Bohachuk for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship in the pay-per-view opener. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the PPV telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.
 
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.
 
“PBC on Prime Video is coming out of the gate strong with two matchups that promise intrigue and fireworks on March 30 at T-Mobile Arena,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “One of 2023’s breakout stars, Elijah Garcia is continuing to take big steps in his career against the highly-skilled and tough as nails Kyrone Davis. Adding in Mexican flyweight world champion Julio Cesar Martinez against the highly-motivated and undefeated Angelino Cordova and fight fans will be in for non-stop drama in the sport’s first big Las Vegas event of 2024.”
 
ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS
 
Looking to stamp his 160-pound contender status after a huge 2023 campaign, the 20-year-old Elijah Garcia will return for a 10-round showdown against tough middleweight contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, who can make his own name at middleweight with a signature victory on March 30.
 
Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, Garcia (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious Garcia has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.
 
“I’m excited to be back in the ring, especially on this first event with PBC and Prime Video,” said Garcia. “Fighting on these major events is an incredible blessing and I plan on delivering another great performance. Kyrone Davis has been in the ring with some very good fighters, and it will be a challenging fight, but my plan is to get the win by any means necessary. The fans are going to see an incredible night of boxing on March 30 and everyone should be tuning in.”
 
The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.
 
“Elijah Garcia is a very good fighter who’s young and hungry and he looks the part, but most importantly he’s been moved right,” said Davis. “Sometimes you can look better than you really are if you’re being moved right. I got asked about this fight last year and of course I said yes. Then everything went silent. Now, I face Cruse Stewart and he goes the distance with me and Elijah stopped him, so now he fights me. I’m not going to say too much, but I’m glad they took the fight. We’ll see if Garcia is really the future come March 30.”
 
JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ VS. ANGELINO CORDOVA
 
Originally scheduled to duel last December before visa issues for Martinez scuttled the bout, WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio Cesar Martinez is set to attempt his sixth defense of his belt against skilled top flyweight contender Angelino Cordova in a 12-round battle.  
 
Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, Martinez (20-2, 15 KOs) first captured his flyweight world title with a ninth-round stoppage of Cristofer Rosales in his stateside debut in December 2019. The 29-year-old has gone on to defend the title five times, besting previously unbeaten opponents Jay Harris and Samuel Carmona, while most recently stopping Ronal Batista in May. A native of Mexico City, Martinez’s only blemish since a split-decision loss in his pro debut was a decision loss to future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez in March 2022.
 
“I’m ready to give it my all in training camp for this fight,” said Martinez. “I want all of the big fights and big prizes this year. My plan is to go earn this win on March 30 and end up with my hand raised. Then I’m going for all the belts, no matter who I have to face. I’m going to be the last man standing.”
 
The 28-year-old Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing, as he bested former world champion Angel Acosta on his way to a 10-round unanimous decision victory last April. A native of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, Cordova of Cotto Promotions has yet to taste defeat since debuting in 2017, with a draw in just his fourth fight as the only blemish. He made his U.S. debut in June 2022, defeating Axel Aragon Vega by decision before the triumph over Acosta.
 
“I’m very thankful that this fight is on and confirmed,” said Cordova. “My team did a great job making sure that this fight was rescheduled, and I’m thrilled it’s part of a huge card like this. I’m excited to finally face Martinez on March 30. The only thing on my mind is becoming the new WBC world champion.”

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Super Lightweight Prospect Bryce Mills Set to Clash with Gerffred Ngayot on Top Rank Card March 2

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (February 15, 2024) – Hot Super lightweight prospect Bryce Mills (14-1, 4 KOs), hailing from Syracuse, New York, returns to the ring as he prepares to face off against Gerffred Ngayot (6-1, 5 KOs), from Buffalo, New York, by way of Brazzaville, Congo. The fight is set to take place on March 2, 2024, at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York, in Mills’ backyard where he is a massive attraction, on a card promoted by Top Rank. The entire card will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Mills is eager to showcase his skills in front of his hometown crowd. Mills, who is on an 8-fight winning streak, believes this match is a pivotal moment in his career.

“I’ve been in the gym non stop and training hard for this fight. I’m ready to give my hometown fans a night to remember,” said Bryce Mills. “Ngayot is a tough opponent, but I’ve faced challenges before, and I know what it takes to come out on top and put on a highlight performance. This is my time to shine, and I’m not planning on letting anything stand in my way.”

Mills has been honing his craft under the guidance of his advisor, Amer Abdallah, who has guided the illustrious career of Badou Jack, a three-division world champion. Abdallah, a well-known figure in the boxing world, expressed his confidence in Mills’ ability to rise to the occasion.

“Bryce Mills is an exciting fighter with a lot of talent and potential to do great things in the sport,” Amer Abdallah stated. “This fight against Ngayot is an important step in his journey, and I believe it will be a defining moment in his career. Bryce has a great team around him including his father Steve, Russel Peltz, Armando Munoz and Jim Andrello, which is pivotal in this sport. We are excited to showcase his talent on March 2nd, with great exposure on ESPN+.”

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.

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3 Division World Champion & Hall of Famer Marco Antonio Barrera Confirmed for Seventh Annual

Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend,

Saturday May 4, in Las Vegas

Box Fan Expo – the Largest Boxing Fan Event held in the U.S – the Ultimate Boxing Fan Experience

Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite

Las Vegas (February 15, 2024) – Three-division world champion and Hall of Famer

Marco Antonio Barrera has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with a mega fight that will take place later that evening in Las Vegas, featuring boxing star Canelo Alvarez.

Barrera will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Barrera will make his fifth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Barrera will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as the “Baby Faced Assassin”.

About Marco Antonio Barrera

Barrera is a Mexican former professional boxer who competed from 1989 to 2011. He held multiple world championships in three weight classes, including the WBO super bantamweight title three times from 1995 to 2001; the WBC super featherweight title from 2004 to 2007; and the IBF super featherweight title from 2005 to 2006. Additionally, he held the IBO featherweight title in 2001; the lineal featherweight title from 2001 to 2003; and the Ring magazine featherweight title from 2002 to 2003. Barrera is well known for his trilogy with fellow Mexican legend Erik Morales, as well as his duology with Manny Pacquiao, and rivalry with Juan Manuel Marquez. ESPN ranked Barrera as number 43 on their list of the 50 greatest boxers of all time. Barrera was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

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Undefeated Ukraine Olympian Heavyweight Tsotne Rogava to headline

“Punches and Punchlines” Card

Feb. 15^th at Soboba Casino Resort in San Jacinto, CA

LOS ANGELES (February 15, 2024) – 2020 Ukraine Olympian, undefeated heavyweight Tsotne Rogava (4-0, 4 KOs), will headline for the first time Thursday night, February 15, on the “Punches and Punchlines” card at Soboba Casino Resort in San Jacinto, California.

“Punches and Punchlines”, presented by Toro Promotions, Inc., House of Pain and Black House Boxing, will be the first pro boxing event at Soboba Casino in nearly five years.

Born in Georgia, Rogava lived for several years in Ukraine until moving last year to Marina del Rei, California.  The 6’ 5”, 270-pound Rogava successfully transitioned to boxing from his world class Muay Thai and kickboxing career, highlighted by his three-time IFMA World title-winning performances in Muay Thai as an amateur, along with an ACB kickboxing crown.

Rogava is trained by Hall of Famer Joe Gossen, who favorably compares Rogova to Tyson Fury, style-wise, because of their enormous size yet athletic movement on their feet. The 30-year-old Rogova is coming off a devastating knockout of previously undefeated Dante Williams halfway through the opening round this past January 4^th at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

Rogova takes on upset-minded John Shipman (5-5, 2 KOs), of Dallas, in the six-round main event.

In the co-featured event, Temecula, CA super lightweight Jimmie “El Chingon” Nunez (5-2, 5 KOs) faces an attacking Kenekuk De La Rosa (2-1, 1 KO), of Phoenix, in a six-rounder.

Undefeated Nicaraguan super featherweight prospect Nilo Guerrero (7-0, 6 KOs), faces Dan Hernandez (3-4, 2 KOs) in a six-round bout. Guerrero, 23, is a freakishly tall boxer with a long reach for his weight class, who was the 2016 Nicaraguan Youth National Champion. He now fights out of Coachella, California.

“With Dave’s (Trujillo, House of Pain) love and enthusiasm for the sport and with mine and Whit’s (Haydon/Toro Promotions) experience in the business, we are looking to establish HOP and Toro Promotions as one of the top prospect-building promotional teams in Southern California,” House of Pain’s Cesar Garcia said. “We are looking forward to presenting boxing with a little vibe as (comedian) Jerry Garcia will not only have a small set during an intermission, but he will introduce each fight.”

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard, all in four-round matches, are Temecula cruiserweight prospect David Longoria (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. pro-debuting Jason “El Crazy Horse” Lara, of Boyle Heights, CA; Perris, CA lightweight William King (5-1-1, 2 KOs) vs. Giovanny Meza (0-6), and Temecula heavyweight Ian “The Captain” Morgan (1-2, 0 KOs) vs. Terrance Brown 1-5 (0 KOs).

Priced at $125.00 (VIP), $85.00 (Premium) and $65.00 (general admission), reserved tickets are available to purchase online at www.soboba.com.

Doors open at 6 p.m. PT, first bout at 7 p.m. PT.

 

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“Winter Brawl 2024” Hits Mohegan Sun

Story by Kirk Lang

February  – Uncasville, CT. – Junior middleweight contender Chordale “The Gift” Booker was offended that Greg “The Villain” Vendetti had questioned if he had the toughness and the stamina to handle a long, drawn-out tough fight. It provided extra motivation for him in training.

Vendetti, 154, of Wakefield, MA,  should have stayed quiet and not talked trash, because Booker, 155, of Stamford, CT, won a unanimous 10-round decision in the main event of CES Boxing’s “Winter Brawl 2024” at Mohegan Sun Arena. The judges saw it for Booker by scores of 99-91 (twice) and 98-92.

It turned out to be a more entertaining tussle than the numbers would lead one to believe, at least early on. Vendetti, as is his style, was the aggressor at the opening bell but Booker jabbed and moved and did not make things easy for his opponent. It was not until there was half a minute left in the round that Vendetti was able to catch Booker along the ropes with an assortment of power shots.

Booker boxed very effectively in the second frame, using his height and reach to his advantage. Vendetti’s supporters chanted his name at the start of the third round. Though Booker has the style and the skills more suited for sticking and moving, he decided to take a page from Vendetti’s playbook and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Vendetti, trading punches in close. During one exchange, he opened a cut over Vendetti’s right eye and near the end of the frame, he landed a beautiful straight left to the body followed by a right hook downstairs.

No one really dominated the slower fourth round but round five, like round three, featured some great close quarters action that was tit for tat.

Booker elected to create some distance again in the sixth and thus, seemed to frustrate Vendetti. However, Vendetti got back into pressure fighter mode in the seventh frame, moving forward in a crouch trying to land bombs. It looked like Vendetti has studied a lot of the legendary former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano’s style. The only thing is, if you’re going to copy Marciano’s style, one must also throw as many punches as he did, with serious intentions. Oftentimes, Vendetti was doing his Marciano impression but not letting his hands go as much as he should have when he did get within Booker’s jabbing range.

From the eighth round on, Booker pretty much controlled the action, employing his quick jab more so than in prior rounds. Early in the 9^th frame, Booker caught Vendetti with three or four shots to the body that seemed to hurt him. Vendetti would try his smothering ways once again, but Booker got the better of their exchanges, especially with his newfound focus on the body. When Booker managed to create some pace between them, near the end of the stanza, he connected with two impressive left uppercuts.

Booker did not let up in the 10^th, as he blasted Vendetti with an array of shots along the ropes. Vendetti would lean over low, utilizing what he thought was an interesting defensive strategy, but as he leaned, Booker punched and kept piling up points.

If Vendetti, 154, had emerged victorious, he would have won Booker’s WBC U.S. Super Welterweight Championship. The title was vacated one day prior when Booker, 155, weighed in one pound over the weight limit.

Booker, who was rated #14 by the WBO and #33 by the WBC going into the Vendetti bout, raised his record to 22-1 (10 KO’s). Vendetti fell to 23-6-1 (12 KO’s), losing for the second straight time (his previous fight was back in October 2022). Booker has now won five straight fights since his only career defeat, a stoppage loss to unbeaten Austin Williams in April 2022 at Madison Square Garden.

Boxing promoter Jimmy Burchfield was impressed with Booker’s performance.

 “I thought it was a great main event,” Burchfield said. “I think Vendetti was inactive for too long, and it showed.”

In the eight-round featherweight co-feature, Ricky Delossantos, 125 ½, of Providence, RI, turned back the challenge of Nathan Martinez, 125 ½, of New Britain, CT, to win the vacant WBC US Silver Super Featherweight Championship. After two rounds of back-and-forth action, Delossantos stepped up his punch rate and it made a difference. His consistent jab did a better job at keeping Martinez at bay, and his sharp left hooks made Martinez think twice about walking in on him. Delossantos also displayed greater head movement than the first two rounds.

The fourth frame saw Delossantos and Martinez each have their moments, but Delossantos began to take over the fight in the fifth frame. He started with some great bodywork and later teed off on Martinez in a neutral corner. In the sixth, Nathan turned his back while under fire from Delossantos, but claimed he was the victim of a headbutt. To us at ringside, it looked more like right to the head. As the round wound down, referee Arthur Mercante Jr. was watching Martinez with a keen eye, and it looked for a moment like he might stop the fight, but he elected not to. Delossantos would dominate rounds 7 and 8 to earn a unanimous decision by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 (twice).

Delossantos raised his record to 12-1 (3 KO’s), while Martinez fell to 8-3 (2 KO’s).

Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan, 160, of Weymouth, MA, earned the WBC US Silver Middleweight Championship with a unanimous eight-round decision over Dormedes Potes, 160, of Barranquila, Colombia. Extending his undefeated record to 16-0 (14 KO’s), Hogan, a southpaw, dropped Potes in the third frame with a straight left to the head.  He continued to dominate the contest in rounds four through six.

In round seven, Hogan seemed to hurt Potes with a straight left downstairs. A couple of seconds later, a drilling left to the body forced a retreating Potes to take a knee. Hogan did not let up in the eighth and final round, but Potes managed to stick around to hear the final bell.

All three judges scored it for Hogan 80-70. Potes, who has now lost two straight bouts, saw his record drop to 14-6-1 (10 KO’s).

Rising star Alejandro Paulino, who was voted 2023’s Pro Boxer of the Year by the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, cruised to a unanimous decision over D’Angelo Keyes, 129, of Houston, TX. All three judges scored the eight-round contest 79-71.

As early as the opening round, Keyes grabbed and held while taking leather from Connecticut boxer. Paulino, 129 ¼, of New London, CT, seemed frustrated as he tried to get Keyes off him.

In the second round, Keyes seemed to focus more on punching rather than grabbing. Paulino, though, was able to see his foe’s wide looping power shots from a mile away. Paulino dropped Keyes twice in the third frame, the first via a right hand to the head in a neutral corner, and the second knockdown was the result of a flurry of shots to the head and body. The ringside doctor examined Keyes between rounds but decided to let him fight on.

Keyes rallied back from the knockdowns to give a solid effort in the fourth round. Just when D’Angelo was having his highlight moment, he got cracked with a beautiful left hook. Paulino then stepped up his attack and teed off on his adversary with rights and lefts to the head, throwing shots with more bad intentions than any point prior. Paulino would dominate round five but Keyes, it could be said, took round six with his best effort of the night.

Paulino got busier and more aggressive in the seventh round and by the end of the frame was focusing more on attacking the body. The eighth and final round was not the most exciting, but it was clear, Paulino had done more than enough to get the nod.

Angel “Set It Off” Gonzalez, 111, of Hartford, CT, remained unbeaten with a hard-earned eight-round decision victory over Christian Robles, 111 ½, of Lakewood, CA. The scores were 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 for Gonzalez, who extended his record to 13-0 (7 KO’s). Robles, who usually favored a body attack while Gonzalez focused his shots upstairs, fell to 8-2 (3 KO’s).

Round after round resulted in competitive back-and-forth action. While Gonzalez had the better overall skills, Robles was terribly tenacious. Gonzalez landed a big right hand in the sixth round that sent Christian to the canvas. In the seventh, Gonzalez teed off on Robles in a neutral corner. He was landing so many hard shots, it looked like he might get the stoppage. Robles bravely never folded under the pressure. He made it to the eighth round and both guys gave a great account of themselves, especially in the final minute, swapping leather as if getting paid by the number of punches thrown.

In lightweight action, “King” Kevin Walsh, 134 ¾, of Brockton, MA, improved to 11-0 (5 KO’s) after a straight right hand dropped Darrell Rivera, 135 ½, of San Juan, Puerto Rico early in the opening frame. Referee Ricky Gonzalez, seeing Rivera fall flat on his back, waved the fight off without bothering to give a count. Walsh was patient, carefully watching what was coming his way, when he countered with the right.

With the loss, Rivera fell to 10-3-1 (8 KO’s).

Carlos “All In” Vanegas Nunez, 125 ¼, of Port Chester, NY, scored two knockdowns in the opening round against Jaden Webb, 125 ¼, of Beebe, AR, before the bout was called off at the 2:00 mark. Vanegas Nunez first dropped Webb with a straight right. He followed up with a string of power shots that forced referee Arthur Mercante Jr. to call the slaughter off. Vanegas Nunez is now 7-1 (5 KO’s) while Webb sinks to 2-2 (2 KO’s)

In other action, Slawomir Bohdziewicz, 197, of Walbryzch, Poland, improved to 3-0 (3 KO’s) with a second-round stoppage of Bruno Saraiva, 188 ¼, of Boston, MA. Bohdziewicz came out at the opening bell throwing some serious left hooks, which forced Saraiva (0-2) to grab and hold early on. Not long after, Bohdziewicz connected with a thudding right hand to the head as he moved in to close the distance. It was not long before Bohdziewicz landed a left to the body that caused Saraiva to drop to his knees. Referee Dave Fields administered a count, but Saraiva was unable to make it to his feet in time.

  Providence, Rhode Island-based James Maner, a tall and lanky southpaw, used his speed, as well as his height and reach advantage to outhustle Miguel Torres, 164, of Dorchester, MA, over four rounds in the opening bout of the pro portion of promoter Jimmy Burchfield’s Pro-Am show. All three judges saw it 39-36 for Maner. Maner, 164, of Providence, RI, had lost a point in the second frame when he hit Torres after referee Arthur Mercante Jr. had ordered the fighters to break. Maner improved to 5-0 (2) while Torres dropped to 2-1 (2 KO’s).

The first half of the mega fight card featured 10 amateur bouts that was separately titled “Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Invitational.” All the fighters were awarded WBC medals from WBC representative Michael George. Boxing fans got their money’s worth on this night, as they were entertained by 19 fights over the course of seven hours.

 “It was an unbelievable night of fighting,” said Burchfield. “It was a great night of boxing.”

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Exciting Arab boxing prospects to be showcased on “Rising Stars Arabia 3” card

Moroccan Jaouad Belmehdi to face off with Ghanaian Alfred Lamptey in main event on March 2 in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (February 9, 2024) – The third installment of the popular “Rising Stars Arabia” pro boxing series, which showcases developing Arab boxers on a worldwide platform, will be held Saturday, March 2, outdoors at picturesque Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” will be streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, as well as broadcast on Abu Dhabi Sports TV, starting at 8 p.m. UAEST.

The widely successful first two RSA events – September 9, 2023 and this past January 13^th – have boxing fans greatly anticipating the return of the series to discover even more underrated veterans and promising prospects from the relatively untapped region.

The 10-round main event matches Moroccan super featherweight Jaouad “The Moroccan Bomber” Belmehdi (19-1-3, 9 KOs) against the No. 1 ranked Ghanaian and African star, undefeated Alfred Lamptey (13-0, 9 KOs).

Belmehdi is a former French Lightweight Champion riding a three-fight win streak. His most notable victories to date have been against 17-1 James Chereji, 13-1-1 Sebri Sediri (TKO1), and 19-2 Meyyl Vegas (TKO4). The 21-year-old Lamptey is a former World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth Silver, World Boxing Organization (WBO) Youth and Ghana super featherweight champion.

The Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission. Western promoters generally don’t promote Arab talent, but now they must start promoting them due to promoter Ahmed Seddiqi’s vision and initiatives.

Hometown favorite Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (13-1, 3 KOs) is riding a 12-fight win streak into the eight round co-featured event versus Venezuelan lightweight Andres Garcia (14-7-1, 11 KOs). Al Bloushi has the distinction of being the most experienced Emirati boxer of all-time with 14 professional fights.

Undefeated United Arab Emirates super flyweight Sultan Al Nuaimi (10-0, 6 KOs) faces dangerous Eliu Canario (14-3, 11 KOs) in a 10-round bout, while promising Iraq light heavyweight prospect Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (3-0, 1 KO) takes on the toughest test of his young career, WBC Asian Continental Super Middleweight Champion Wulamu Tulake (11-3-1, 6 KOs), of China.

The most intriguing match-up on the undercard is a 10-round welterweight clash between Egyptian welterweight Abdumonem “Braveheart” Said (23-3-1, 11 KOs), a former Egyptian Super Welterweight Champion, and undefeated Indian Faizan Anwar (16-0, 8 KOs).

Other undercard bouts include a trio of four-rounders: Egyptian super welterweight Ramy Magdi (3-2-1, 0 KOs) vs. Issac Zebra, Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs), of Uganda; Egyptian cruiserweight Youssef Karrar (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. pro debuting Ukrainian Mykyta Ionin; Egyptian featherweight Mostafa Mohammed Fahmi Komsan (1-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA.

Morocco welterweight Anas Hafiane (2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA, United Arab Emirates (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Ariemba Isalah Odhiambo (1-4, 0 KOs), of Kenya, and Egyptian pro debuting cruiserweight Kenan Marai vs. Tonny Ssemakula (0-1), of Uganda, rounds out the undercard in a trio of four-round fights.

Card subject to change.

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

“Rising Stars Arabia 3” is promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and is hosted in Abu Dhabi in partne rship with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

Tickets to “Rising Stars Arabia 3” are on sale now at https://swiy.co/rsa3 .  Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com.

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WBO Junior Welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez defends his title TONIGHT against Jamaine Ortiz  in Las Vegas

NEW YORK (February 8, 2024) – WBO Junior Welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez defends his title TONIGHT against Jamaine Ortiz at the Michelob Ultra Arena inside Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

The bout can be seen live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 PM ET/7:30 PM

The bout will headline a big Super Bowl week event as Lopez will make the first defense of the crown that he won last June 10th in New York.

Lopez, who now resides in Las Vegas via Brooklyn, is managed by Split-T Management, and has a record of 19-1 with 13 knockouts. The former undisputed lightweight champion is a five-time world champion as he won the IBF Lightweight title with an explosive second-round stoppage of Richard Commey on December 14, 2019 at Madison Square Garden. Lopez picked up three more belts when he won a unanimous decision over Vasiliy Lomanchenko on October 17, 2020.

The 26 year-old Lopez became a two-division world champion with a master class performance when he won a unanimous decision over WBO Junior Welterweight title over Josh Taylor on June 10th at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Ortiz of Worcester, Massachusetts, has a record of 17-1-1 with eight knockouts.

The 27 year-old Ortiz has wins over Canton Miller (2-0), Glenn Mitchell (2-0), Derrick Murray (13-3-1), Ricardo Quiroz (10-0), Romain Coyure (8-1-1), Luis Castillo Leal (22-5-1), Sulimain Segawa (13-2-1), Nahir Albright (14-1), former world champion Jamel Herring (22-3) and Antonio Moran (29-5-1) on September 15, 2023 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Both Lopez and Ortiz weighed 139.6 pounds.

On the undercard, Split-T Management’s undefeated middleweight Javier Martinez takes on Raul Salomon in an eight-round bout.

Martinez, 28 of Milwaukee, has a record of 9-0-1 with three knockouts. The four-year pro, has wins over Rance Ward, Panchino Hll (7-0-1) and his bout when he knocked out Isaiah Wise (11-2-2) in the opening round on November 4, 2023 in Rebo, Nevada.

Salomon of Long Beach, California is 12-2 with 10 knockouts. Salomon, 25 -years-old is a four-year pro who is coming off a majority decision defeat to Split-T managed Tyler Howard on August 11, 2023 in Atlanta.

Martinez weighed 161.6 pounds. Salomon was 164.4 lbs.

The fight can be seen live on ESPN+ at 6:30 PM ET.

Both Lopez and Martinez are promoted by Top Rank.

Photos by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

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Undefeated Junior Middleweight Oluwafemi Oyeleye Takes on Wilfrido Buelvas in Main Event on Saturday, February 17th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Plus Undefeated Tahmir Smalls,Joshua Jones and Juan Marrero

Philadelphia (February 14, 2024) –- Undefeated junior middleweight prospect Oluwafemi Oyeleye returns to action as he takes on veteran Wilfirdo Buelvas in the eight-round main event of a great night of boxing on Saturday, February 17th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The card is promoted by R & B Promotions.

Oyeleye of Philadelphia via Lagoa, Nigeria, has a record of 14-0 with eight knockouts.

The 29 year-old Oyeleye is an eight-year professional who has registered wins over Uriel Gonzalez Angulo (1-0-1), Alberto Beltran (17-1-2), Victus Kamavor (10-2), Juan Ramon Guzman (11-0-1) and his last outing when he stopped Jimmy Williams in three rounds on September 29, 2023 at The 2300 Arena.

Buelvas of Barranquilla, Colombia is 24-18 with 18 knockouts. The 35 year-old Buelvas is a 13 year-professional who has defeated Winston Cordoba (1-0) & Luis Eduardo Florez (13-0). Buelvas lost to Fernando Vargas Jr. on November 11, 2023 in Long Beach, California.

In Six-Round Bouts:

Tahmir Smalls (10-0, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Bruno Leonardo Romay (22-12, 19 KOs) of Buenos Aires, Argentina in a welterweight bout.

Joshua Jones (8-0-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Ryan Schwartzberg (4-12-3, 2 KOs) of Dania, FL in a lightweight contest

In Four-Round Bouts:

Rancy Slanger of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against fellow debutant Alex James of Bronx, NY in a light heavyweight contest.

Richard Johnson of Philadelphia makes his pro debut,battling pro debuting Desmond Carr of Philadelphia in a junior middleweight fight.

Dan Van Fossen (0-1) of Deptford, NJ fights debuting Noah Norman of Philadelphia in a junior lightweight contest.

Jesse Hayward of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against Daniel Fry (0-1) of Cincinnati, OH in a heavyweight contest.

Juan Marrero (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia squares off with debuting Charles Scott of Vicksburg, MS in a lightweight fight.

John Hawks (0-1) of Vorhees, NJ will take on Michael Scott (0-1) of Dover, DE in a middleweight fight.

Jason Moreno of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against an opponent to be named in a welterweight battle.

John Vallejo (5-0, 2 KOs) of Newark, NJ fights an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are $60, $85 and $125 and can be purchased at

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=486

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Khalil “Big Steppa” Coe Scores Impressive KO over Previously Undefeated Gerardo Osuna

NEW YORK (February 5, 2024) – Split-T Management light heavyweight Khalil Coe scored the biggest win of his career with a second round stoppage of previously undefeated Gerardo Osuna in a light heavyweight bout at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas.

In round two, Coe dropped Osuna with a hard right to the body. Seconds later Coe dropped Osuna for a second time with the same body shot. Coe made it three knockdowns with a jab to the body and referee Allen Huggins stopped the bout at 1:14.

Coe, 175.8 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 8-0-1 with six knockouts. Osuna, Baja California, MEX is 20-1.

Coe is co-managed by Keith Connolly and promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

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Jacob Bank KO’s Ronny Landaeta in 6 to retain WBO European super middleweight laurels

Story by Per-Ake Persson

 

February  – Kolding, Denmark. Local hero Jakob Bank, 12-0 (7 KO’s) remained unbeaten with an impressive stoppage of aging (closing in on 41) but still dangerous Spanish veteran Ronny Landaeta, 21-6 (12 KO’s) as he retained the WBO European super middleweight title. Landaeta, of Barcelona, Cataluña, Spain was outboxed, outclassed and outpunched by his faster, stronger and more powerful opponent. Bank, still only 22, shows a lot of promise but has yet to be tested even though many had predicted that Landaeta would give him that test, however, it did not turn out that way.

The Spanish challenger had his right eye marked up and bled from the nose when he finally caved in during the sixth round and took a count.

In the seventh Landaeta went down again, got up and was allowed to continue but then sat down again and retired himself as the towel came in. It was over at 1:28 and ruled as a KO win for Bank.

Super lightweight prospect Elias Idrissi moved to 2-0 with a points win over Polish journeyman Jakub Laskowski, 4-28-1. It was scored 40-36 on all cards. Idrissi showed a lot of flashy moves but was rather ineffective against an opponent who knew how to survive.

Talented heavyweight Morten Givskov, of Horsens, Denmark, turned pro after a brief layoff and knocked out Pawel Sowik, 3-14, from Walcz, Poland. Givskow, 24, a southpaw, took a round to warm up but then went to work and Sowik, 33, was not too willing and after a knockdown he sat the count out and was counted out at 2:59 of the second.

Super welter Victor Hoveling, 3-0, stopped Pole Mikolay Rabczak (2-2) 1:52 into the second round. It was scheduled for four.

 

Unbeaten featherweights Nesar Kunduzi (3-0-1) and Leotrim Rexhepi (3-0-1) battled to a draw after four wild and messy rounds of boxing. Rexhepi, from Kosovo, landed the cleaner punches and hurt Kunduzi to the body and the Dane was forced to hold on. What saved the evening for him was a dubious knockdown in the third. It was scored 38-37 both ways and 38-38.

Super feather Mikke Gribshold, 3-0, stopped Englishman Jack Johnson in the second. Johnson was floored by an overhand right and the towel came in. As for Johnson’s record, he is listed as 0-3 by BoxRec but has also been active on the “unlicensed” circuit on the British isles.

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LAS VEGAS, NV (February 6, 2024) – Three division world champion, Badou Jack, the first Muslim to secure a world title on Middle East ground in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, embarks on a historic journey towards his fourth world title, announced Boxing Advisor Amer Abdallah.

Recognized as one of the most underrated fighters of his era, Jack (28-3-3, 17 KOs), the current WBC Cruiserweight champion in recess, stands not only as a powerhouse in the ring but also as a global philanthropist. His influence extends into the Middle East, with significant contributions that bring immense positivity to the Muslim community, positioning him as an ambassador for his faith.

“I started boxing to create a legacy, fight the best in the world, while being led by my faith,” stated Badou Jack. “Since my last fight, I’ve been back in the gym preparing for my next fight and I’m ready for another challenge. Boxing is more than a sport…it’s a lifestyle. I’m 40 years old, but when you live a disciplined life and take care of yourself, age is just a number. I’m prepared to face anyone from Cruiserweight to heavyweight – let’s go!”

Beyond the ring, he promotes the Badou Jack Foundation, where his slogan reads “Giving Children Across the Globe a Fighting Chance in Life.” Having already made a profound impact on thousands of orphans, refugees, and children in need worldwide, Badou is a modern-day hero.

A seasoned pugilist with a record of facing nine world champions, Jack now eyes an unprecedented fourth division title after a career-defining 12th round knockout victory over defending World Champion Ilunga Makabu (29-4, 25 KOs), in February of last year. Currently training in Dubai, the UAE resident combines veteran experience with the hunger of a rising contender.

“I’ve never felt this hungry in my career as I do now,” continued Badou Jack. “I know what it takes to become great, and I’m ready to close out my career with a bang.”

“Beyond his talent inside the ring, Badou Jack is a genuine ambassador for the sport and a philanthropist dedicated to creating a positive influence globally, transcending religious and racial boundaries,” stated Amer Abdallah. “His background and the values he embodies have resonated particularly well in the Middle East, making him a fighter embraced by the region. With the Middle East emerging as a pivotal hub for boxing, we anticipate a stellar 2024, marking another extraordinary year for Badou.”

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Tayden “The Butcher” Beltran

Training Camp Notes and Photos

Austin Brooks vs. Jose Manuel Izaguirre

WBA Continental Super Featherweight Title

LONG BEACH, CA (February 6, 2024) – Undefeated lightweight prospect, Tayden “The Butcher” Beltran (7-0-1, 4 KOs), from Huntington Beach, CA, is scheduled to battle Lyle McFarlane (2-3, 1 KO), from Tulsa, OK, in a 6-round co-main event bout on CBN Promotions’ “Super Brawl Saturday” card this February 10th at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California.

Beltran, who is wrapping up the final days of his training camp, gives his thoughts on his matchup with McFarlane, how camp went, fighting on national television, and more.

On his recent training camp:

“I’m more focused than ever and that is because I’ve been working on a lot of power punching drills during this camp. I’m sitting on my punches more and I’m getting more comfortable in the ring. All in all its been a very productive training camp.”

On his matchup with McFarlane:

“Although McFarlane doesn’t have the best record, I know he’s coming to fight. These are the type if fight where my opponent has nothing to lose. I must execute the game plans my trainer Eddie Gonzalez and I have put together. I’m taking this fight very seriously.”

On fighting on a national stage:

“It’s a tremendous blessing to be fighting once again on the big stage, especially with the addition of ESPN Knockout and Fubo Sports. I just want to show everyone that I’m an exciting fighter worthy of television opportunities. We are in the business of entertaining fans and that’s what I plan to do.

On fighting at home:

“Huntington Beach is my hometown, so I have a lot of family and friends coming to see me fight. I’m excited to perform in front of them and it gives me extra motivation to put on a great show.”

The entire event will be broadcast live on ESPN Knockout and Fubo Sports. For those that will miss the live action, CBN’s first event of the year will also air tape delayed on Fox Deportes and Estrella TV.

Doors open and the first bell for “Super Brawl Saturday” at 5:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.

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Country Box To Honor Toby Keith

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (February 6, 2024) –Jimmy Adams Promotions and Country Box will honor country music Icon Toby Keith at tonight’s fight card at The Troubadour in Nashville.

Keith passed away on Monday night at the age of 62 from Stomach Cancer.

During the event, there will be an honorary 10-count for Keith.

“Toby was a real entertainer and did a lot for country music. He set a lot of standards. He expressed his love for his country and will be really missed. Our Prayers go out to his family. The whole country music community is saddened by this,” said Jimmy Adams of Jimmy Adams Promotions.

A video of the 10-count will be sent to the media tonight.

The live broadcast of the show, which will include a full night of professional boxing and a performance by country star Landon Wall will start at 7 PM CT/8 PM ET on the following channels and platforms.

Country Box airs in over 100 million homes on

Dish – Ch 218

Verizon Fios – Ch 662

Fontier – Ch 162

ATT U-Verse – CH 459/1459

GCl – Ch 142

Cincinnati Bell – Ch 636

Buckeye Cable – Ch 161/572

Direct TV – Ch 324

Plus Countrybox247.com. ITUBE247.com and FITE.TV

LOS ANGELES (February 6, 2024)–. Wise Owl Boxing has signed super middleweight Isaiah Carr to a managerial contract.

Carr, 25 years-old of Kannapolis, North Carolina was a decorated amateur, and will now turn his attention to becoming a world champion in the pro ranks.

“I am really looking forward to seeing how Isaiah develops as a professional fighter. He’s extremely intelligent and this should set him apart from the competition. He’s at the perfect age to fast track him to the top and that’s what we intend to do. He’ll be making his pro debut in Greensboro, North Carolina on March 23rd,” said Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Boxing.

“I feel like it’s a blessing to have a manager like (Wise Owl Boxing’s) Mark Habibi take interest in my career after just having 31 am fights. I have worked hard to get to where I am at. I was a hidden gem for a long time. I know the opportunities will come towards me. Him and (co-manager) Lamont Roseborough want to take me on and it is great to have someone have interest in me in taking me to the top”

“I’m excited to work with Isaiah Carr. He is a young man that’s very dedicated to the sport of boxing. He is very humble, and has a very strong work ethic that knows what he wants out of boxing. The future is very bright for not only for Isaiah, but for Wise Owl Boxing as a whole,” said Roseborough

Carr began boxing at the age of 16 when a gym opened up in his hometown.

That spawned a short but extremely productive and decorated amateur career.

In just 31 fights, Carr won the national Olympic Qualifier tournament, The Washington State Golden Gloves and then was a four-time North Carolina champion. Carr made it to Team USA and competed in the 2023 Olympic Trials.

Nicknamed “2 Hard”, Carr will compete at 168 pounds with the goal of campaigning at middleweight.

Outside the ring, Carr is an entrepreneur and owns a wholesaling real estate business.

Carr Joins WBC ranked #1 super welterweight Charles Conwell, former world title contender Brandon Adams, DeAngelo Evans and Javon Woodard Jr in the Wise Owl Boxing stable.

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Wise Owl Boxing Signs Pro Debuting Super Middleweight Isaiah Carr

LOS ANGELES (February 6, 2024)–. Wise Owl Boxing has signed super middleweight Isaiah Carr to a managerial contract.

Carr, 25 years-old of Kannapolis, North Carolina was a decorated amateur, and will now turn his attention to becoming a world champion in the pro ranks.

“I am really looking forward to seeing how Isaiah develops as a professional fighter. He’s extremely intelligent and this should set him apart from the competition. He’s at the perfect age to fast track him to the top and that’s what we intend to do. He’ll be making his pro debut in Greensboro, North Carolina on March 23rd,” said Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Boxing.

“I feel like it’s a blessing to have a manager like (Wise Owl Boxing’s) Mark Habibi take interest in my career after just having 31 am fights. I have worked hard to get to where I am at. I was a hidden gem for a long time. I know the opportunities will come towards me. Him and (co-manager) Lamont Roseborough want to take me on and it is great to have someone have interest in me in taking me to the top”

“I’m excited to work with Isaiah Carr. He is a young man that’s very dedicated to the sport of boxing. He is very humble, and has a very strong work ethic that knows what he wants out of boxing. The future is very bright for not only for Isaiah, but for Wise Owl Boxing as a whole,” said Roseborough

Carr began boxing at the age of 16 when a gym opened up in his hometown.

That spawned a short but extremely productive and decorated amateur career.

In just 31 fights, Carr won the national Olympic Qualifier tournament, The Washington State Golden Gloves and then was a four-time North Carolina champion. Carr made it to Team USA and competed in the 2023 Olympic Trials.

Nicknamed “2 Hard”, Carr will compete at 168 pounds with the goal of campaigning at middleweight.

Outside the ring, Carr is an entrepreneur and owns a wholesaling real estate business.

Carr Joins WBC ranked #1 super welterweight Charles Conwell, former world title contender Brandon Adams, DeAngelo Evans and Javon Woodard Jr in the Wise Owl Boxing stable

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Undefeated Irish prospect Tommy Hyde

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in San Francisco instead of home in Ireland

 

CORK, Ireland (February 1, 2024) –  Rather than celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at home in Cork, Ireland, undefeated super middleweight prospect Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (7-0, 4 KOs) will instead be fighting 5,000 miles away, outside of San Francisco (CA) in Redwood City for his first title as a professional.

Hyde, 24, is matched against fellow Irishman Craig “BTL” McCarthy (10-1-1, 2 KOs), the reigning Boxing Union of Ireland Celtic super middleweight champion, in an eight-round bout for the vacant Celtic Nation Championship on a card presented by Westwood Promotions.

Now training in Santa Monica (CA), under the direction of head trainer Pedro Nemes, Hyde was selected as the 2023 Irish Prospect of the Year. 

“I’m delighted to be fighting in San Francisco,” Hyde said, “especially on St. Patrick’s Weekend. “There are a lot of Irish living there, so it’s great to be giving them an all-Irish fight on such a big weekend. I fought in San Francisco as an amateur and I plan on fighting there more as a professional. This is a great opportunity for me to show the Irish what I’m about.”

A celebrated Irish amateur boxer, Hyde participated in more than 100 amateur matches, reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious World Junior Championships in 2015, in addition to capturing three Irish National Championships, three Celtic Cup titles and the 2019 Haringey Box Cup.

Hyde made his pro debut on December 1, 2022 in a scheduled six-round bout against Jiri Kroda, who was stopped in the third round of their fight in the United States, at The District in Sioux Falls, South. In his first full year of prizefighting, Hyde was placed on an accelerated route by his father and international matchmaker, Gary Hyde. As a pro, Tommy has also fought three times in Greater Boston, twice at home in Cork, and once in Waterford, Ireland.

“I’m really excited that Tommy will finally be fighting in San Francisco and on the best weekend of the year, St. Paddy’s Day,” Gary commented. “The Irish will come out in great numbers to support this all-Irish clash.

“We are planning to have five or six fights this year and keep improving Tommy’s ranking. These fights will be split between the United States and Ireland. Tommy has proven to be a huge draw wherever he fights.”

Irish eyes will be smiling’ in San Francisco for Tommy Hyde.

ABOUT NOWHERETOHYDE:  Founded in 2007 by Gary Hyde in Cork, Ireland, NoWhere2Hyde  offers full services for professional boxers around the world. Hyde has managed numerous world-class boxers during his career including world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux, Youri Kalenga, Nassam N’Dam and Simpiwe Vetyeaka. In addition to his son, Gary presently manages Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (11-0, 7 KOs).

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WBA No. 13 rated welterweight Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan Ready for a rigorous 2024

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

NEW YORK (February 1, 2024) – World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Champion Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs) kick started what is expected to be a challenging 2024 with a seventh-round knockout of Williams Andres Herrera (15-3, 6 KOs), which was streamed on DAZN live from Ulster Hall in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The 25-year-old Donovan, who is ranked No. 13 in the world by the World Boxing Association(WBA), successfully defended his WBA belt for the first time, albeit by overcoming some adversity before his Argentinian opponent was stopped for the first time in his career.

“It was great to be back in Belfast,” Donovan said after the Herrera fight. “It was a tough fight against a very durable opponent. Good scrap, I got hit and it’s not every day you see me get hit.

I got a bit fatigued and hit with a couple of shots but dug deep and pulled out the win. It was good to get the rounds at this stage of my career and to be in with fighters who hit back. There’s still a lot for me to learn. It gets harder and these are the type fights I need going forward. There are different types of fighters that I need now. It’s important to go through the different stages of my career to be ready when I get into a 12-round world title fight. It’s boxing.

“I’m looking forward to big fights in 2024. I believe I can beat any fighter in the world if I’m on my A game. I have a great team and trust them to choose what’s next for me. They always have my back.”

Donovan is trained by former world middleweight champion Andy Lee, who also co-manages Donovan with New York City-based lawyer Keith Sullivan.

“I’ve very happy with how he performed,” Lee commented, “considering it was a short training camp with Christmas in the middle of it.  He had only found out about the fight in late December, so he only had four or five weeks. He stepped in and did a good job. Herrera came on strong around rounds five and six, but Paddy showed his character and got the stoppage in round seven. I was very pleased with that. He’s maturing and that was a very mature performance. He stepped up well  and didn’t panic when it looked like Herrara was coming on strong. Paddy kept his composure and found the punch to get the stoppage.”

Donovan has several options on the table for 2024, which figures to be a critical year for the Irish welterweight sensation in terms of him developing into a legitimate world title challenger.

“We don’t have confirmation of when his next fight is,” Lee explained, “but if Katie Taylor is to fight in Dublin in May, which has been rumored, I’d like to have Paddy fight in another challenging fight. It would be nice to fight in Limerick to bring bigtime boxing back to Limerick. And then a big fight towards the end of the year. With that number of fights, he should be right on course, putting himself in as one of the top contenders in the welterweight division.”

“This fight showcased the depth of Paddy’s ability and tenacity,” Sullivan noted. “He looked great, stayed incredibly calm, and scored the knockout. You can’t ask a fighter for more than that. Moving forward, every option is on the table. We are planning an eventful year for Paddy.”

Donovan is using his boxing platform to promote the suicide prevention charity that provides mental health services throughout Ireland, Pieta House. Paddy lost two relatives to suicide. The Pieta Crisis Helpline, 1-800-247-247, offers crisis intervention support, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm and also supports those bereaved through suicide. “If I can get somebody to call that number and change their life,” Donovan believes, “I think my deed is done on this earth.”  

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LONG BEACH, CA (January 31, 2024) – CBN Promotions proudly announces its collaboration with “ESPN Knockout” for their highly anticipated 8-show boxing series scheduled for 2024. This strategic partnership signifies a monumental step forward in delivering top-notch boxing content to fans across Latin America.

On February 10th, CBN Promotions’ boxing series will kick off 2024 with “Super Brawl Saturday” at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. In the 10-round super featherweight main event, Austin Brooks (11-0, 4 KOs), from La Mesa, CA, will square off against Julio Carrera (17-0-1, 13 KOs), from Sonora, MX, for the WBA Continental title.

Launched in 1989, ESPN’s pan-regional Latin America network has been a powerhouse in sports broadcasting, transmitting in Spanish, Portuguese, and English to 42 countries and territories. The network is currently available in over 20 million homes in the region. ESPN Knockout, a dynamic platform dedicated to the world of combat sports, will play a pivotal role in bringing the excitement of CBN Promotions’ boxing series to a vast and diverse audience.

“Partnering with ESPN Knockout is a significant breakthrough for CBN Promotions,” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “It aligns perfectly with our vision of bringing high-quality boxing entertainment to a global audience. ESPN’s extensive reach and reputation make them the ideal platform to showcase our events.”

In addition to its main channel, ESPN Latin America operates several regional networks, including ESPN 2 (Mexico and the northern cone), ESPN+ (Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay), ESPN+ Andina, and ESPN2 Caribbean, which serves English-speaking fans in the Caribbean. The network has continuously evolved, introducing ESPN HD in Brazil in April 2009, marking a milestone as the company’s first high-definition channel in the region.

“We look forward to showcasing the excitement and skill of these events on ESPN Knockout,” stated Rolando Nichols, President of Thunder Studios. “This partnership strengthens our commitment to delivering top-tier boxing content to our distinct audience in Latin America.”

The 8-round co-main event will showcase Tayden Beltran (7-0-1, 4 KOs), from Huntington Beach, CA, vs. Lyle McFarlane (2-3, 1 KO), in a lightweight bout.

“Super Brawl Saturday” will broadcast live on ESPN Knockout, FuboTV, and FightStars Network. For those that will miss the live action, CBN’s first event of the year will also air tape delayed on Fox Deportes and Estrella TV.

Doors open and the first bell for “Super Brawl Saturday” at 5:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810.

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.

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“Pandemonium at the Palladium 3”

Denzel Whitley vs. Kenny Larson rematch,

Mike Ohan, Jr. returns vs. Derrick Whitley, Jr.

March 23^rd at The Palladium in Worcester, MA

QUINCY, Mass. (January 31, 2024) – The fightin’ Whitley brothers, undefeated welterweight Denzel (13-0, 7 KOs) and junior welterweight Derrick Jr. (7-4-1, 0 KOs), will fight on the same card as professional boxers on the March 23^rd “Pandemonium at the Palladium 3” card, presented on Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), at the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“Pandemonium at the Palladium 3” will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com.

Junior North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley will make his first title defense in a rematch with Kenny “Lionheart” Larson (7-1-1, 5 KOs) in the 10-round main event.

Last December 19^th at The Palladium, Whitley captured the vacant Junior NABF title with a 10-round split decision over the previously unbeaten Larson, who fights out of Salem (MA), by scores of 99-90, 97-92, 92-97, also at The Palladium

Whitley, of Holyoke (MA), is also the reigning Massachusetts and USBF Atlantic Welterweight Champion.

“Why not do it again,” Whitley rhetorically asked. “I normally don’t do rematches, I mean I haven’t as a professional, but I always say if I’m going to benefit from it by moving up in the rankings or fighting for more money, then I’m all for it. The first fight was good, the crowd went crazy and was so involved, and the second will be even better. I’m shooting for the same outcome to be victorious.

“Me and my brother being on the same card is a bonus added to the night. Ever since we turned pro, of course, he’s been a pro a little longer, and when I turned pro it was always something we talked about. We wanted to make it happen and now we get to do it on the big stage with him in the co-feature and me as the main event. He’s going to go out there and warm up the crowd and all our people there for us, then I’m going to put the finishing touches on the night in the grand finale. I’m happy that we are finally getting to live out our dreams together.” 

Larson, of course, believes the result will be much different in the rematch, saying: “Because Christmas is over and there are no more gifts to give.”

Whitley’s older brother, southpaw Derrick, will be fighting former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (19-2, 9 KOs) in the 10-round co-featured event.

“I’m very excited to fight on the same card as my brother,” Derrick commented. “It’s been a long time coming and so exciting that our first time is in the main event and co-feature. Our name generally speaks for itself due to the past, but I feel that me and Denzel have created a new conversation, and this is just another page in that story. I’m definitely excited to be starting 2024 off with a great matchup and I’m definitely looking to steal the show from Denzel.”

Ohan, 30, has been inactive since last August when he won an impressive eight-round unanimous decision over Harry Gigliotti.

“At this point of my career,” Ohan Noted, “I’m just taking fights that will make me better. No other reason.”

“In order for Granite Chin to be the most dominant promotion company in Massachusetts,” GCP president Chris Traietti explained, “we have to put on the best fights and that is exactly what we are doing on March 23^rd. Denzel and Kenny put on a barnburner in December, and everyone wants the rematch. The fighters want it, the NABF wants it, and the fans want it. So, we are going to give it to them. As great as the December 19^th show was, it was missing something, a solid co-feature, so we remedied that by putting Denzel’s older brother in with one of the top junior welterweights in New England, ‘The Bad Man.” The plan is to make every show at the Palladium better than the last. This might be the Number 3 Pandemonium at the Palladium thus far, but it will be Number 1 in quality.”

Additional bouts will soon be announced. Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $50.00 (balcony), $90.00 (mezzanine), $125.00 (floor) and $650.00 (booth of 4) and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.

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STACKED NIGHT OF STAR-STUDDED SHOWDOWNS HIGHLIGHT PBC PAY-PER-VIEW AVAILABLE ON PRIME VIDEO SATURDAY, MARCH 30
FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

Two-Time World Champion Keith Thurman Battles Undefeated Rising Star Tim Tszyu in Main Event

WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero Defends His Belt Against All-Action Mexican Star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in Co-Main Event
 Plus! WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy Lara Takes on Michael Zerafa & Top Super Welterweight Sebastian Fundora Duels Serhii Bohachuk in Pay-Per-View Opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

LAS VEGAS – January 31, 2024 – A pair of all-action, high-stakes showdowns will top a stacked four-fight pay-per-view event as two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman duels rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event while 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meet in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 in the inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
 
The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.
 
The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet streaking contender Serhii Bohachuk in the pay-per-view opener.
 
*Ticketing information to be announced shortly. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.
 
“This first show with PBC on Prime Video is jam-packed with fan-friendly matchups featuring stars who are established as the best of their generation and new stars who are looking to make a claim to lead the next generation of champions,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Keith Thurman vs. Tim Tszyu gives each fighter a chance to debut 2024 with a statement, while ‘Rolly’ Romero and ‘Pitbull’ Cruz can send their ascending stock skyrocketing by emerging victorious. With two more clashes rounding out the pay-per-view, this lines up as another night from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas that you’ll want to stay glued to your seat for.”
 
“This is an historic event and puts the Tszyu name right back at the pinnacle of boxing where it belongs,” said George Rose, CEO of No Limit Boxing. “Tim only wanted the big names, legacy fights, and Keith Thurman is exactly that. It doesn’t end well for Thurman though as the world is going to realize Tim Tszyu is about to take over the sport. Thank you Premier Boxing Champions, TGB Promotions and Prime Video for what is going to be an incredible night of boxing.”
 
*KEITH THURMAN VS. TIM TSZYU*
 
The main event will see the former unified world champion Thurman, a long-time stalwart at welterweight, take his first crack at the super welterweight division as he faces the undefeated reigning WBO 154-pound World Champion Tszyu in a 12-round non-title showdown.
 
Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) earned his “One Time” moniker by talking the talk and delivering with highlight-reel KOs. He has assembled one of the most impressive resumes among the top welterweights of this generation, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero. That showdown with Garcia saw him become a unified world champion in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight world champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in a 2019 Fight of the Year against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Most recently, Thurman bested former world champion and current highly ranked welterweight Mario Barrios by unanimous decision in February 2022.
 
“I’m back in action and I’m happy to be a part of this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Thurman. “Tszyu stands out as an exceptional fighter, and I’ve always held admiration for his performances. His distinctive style provides the perfect stage for me to exhibit the relentless dedication I’ve poured into training, refining my skills, and fortifying my mental game. This fight promises a spectacular showdown between two of the most electrifying fighters in the sport, an event that demands attention. Good things come to those that wait. Them days are over, bright lights and action are up ahead. Let’s shake up the world of boxing one more time on Prime Video.”
 
The son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, the 29-year-old Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) comes off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.
 
“I’ve been ready and waiting to headline a historic event like this in the U.S. for a very long time and it’s an honor that I don’t take lightly,” said Tszyu. “My father did it, and was at the top of the world for a decade, now it’s my turn. Thurman is a great fight, he’s tricky, tough and he’s mixed it with the very best the sport has seen. This is a new era now. It’s the Tszyu era. On March 30, everyone who tunes into this pay-per-view is going to see for themselves.”
 
*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*
 
The WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Romero will make the first defense of his world title in a 12-round matchup against the top lightweight contender Cruz, who will look to debut at 140-pounds with a championship-winning performance in the night’s co-main event.
 
Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 28-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in his last outing, stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title in May. It was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. 
 
“This is gonna be Rolly versus the Chihuahua in the ring on March 30,” said Romero. “I’m gonna stay world champ and be the first superstar on Prime Video. Just make sure you buy your tickets or tune in on pay-per-view, don’t miss this one.”
 
One of the most exciting fighters in boxing, the 25-year-old Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) has racked up three consecutive victories since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. After stopping former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022, Cruz returned this past July to turn away the previously unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera by decision.
 
“I’m very happy and extremely motivated to have this opportunity to fight for the world title,” said Cruz. “I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this shot. I’ve tried to fight other big names, but ‘Rolly’ was the only one to step up and accept the challenge. He’s got power and courage, and he comes to knock you out. That’s going to make this a great fight on March 30. I’m thankful to my promoter Manny Pacquiao and my whole team for helping secure this fight for me. I will leave the ring as world champion on March 30.”
 
*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*
 
Unbeaten in two fights at middleweight, Lara will defend his WBA Middleweight World Championship against the WBA’s top-rated mandatory challenger Zerafa in a 12-round attraction on the pay-per-view lineup.
 
Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.
 
“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and defending my title, especially on this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Lara. “I feel like I’m the modern day Bernard Hopkins and that I can keep doing this for years. I know that Zerafa has been waiting patiently for this opportunity, so he’s going to be hungry on fight night. But he’s going to realize that he’s now on the world class level facing the best fighter in the division. It’s an honor to be on this great card that’s going to be action packed from start to finish.”
 
Melbourne, Australia’s Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs) is long established as one of his country’s top contenders and has won four-straight to earn the title fight on March 30. Zerafa has split a pair of matchups against former champion and Australian rival Jeff Horn in addition to a first round knockout of longtime contender Anthony Mundine. The 31-year-old previously fought stateside in 2015, as he dropped a contest to former middleweight champion Peter Quillin. The veteran has also challenged former champion Kell Brook and defeated previously unbeaten fighters Danilo Creati and Isaac Hardman in his last two fights.
 
“This is long overdue ever since I became the mandatory,” said Zerafa. “I’m very thankful to everyone who made this fight happen. Come fight night, the world will see why I deserve this opportunity and Australia will have a new world champion.”
 
*SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. SERHII BOHACHUK*
 
Already established as a must-see attraction, Fundora will return to face fellow highly ranked super welterweight Bohachuk in a 12-round fight for the vacant Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.
 
Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. His unbeaten streak came to an end in his last outing, as he got caught and was defeated by Brian Mendoza in April of last year. At nearly 6-foot-6, the 26-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents a boxing family, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela.
 
“Training camp is going great and I’ve been working hard to get ready for this fight,” said Fundora. “I train 100% for every fight, so it’s been getting back to work as usual for me. I know I’ll win because my objective is still the same as before, to become world champion in the super welterweight division.”
 
A 28-year-old from Ukraine, Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) now resides in Los Angeles, where he’s fought out of since turning pro. The 28-year-old has won five-straight outings, including 2023 stoppages of Nathaniel Gallimore and Patrick Allotey. This run has come after a defeat to Brandon Adams in March 2021 and has seen him rise back up the 154-pound rankings. He won his first 18 fights after turning pro in 2017 following an extensive amateur career.
 
“I can’t wait for this opportunity to fight for the title,” said Bohachuk. “I’ve worked my entire career for the chance to reach my dream in this sport. I will give everything to win this fight, because I’m not just fighting for myself, but also for my war-torn country of Ukraine.”

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ANDRES “SAVAGE” CORTES

Vows All Out Mexican vs. Puerto Rico War Against Bryan Chevalier

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 31, 2024) – In a clash that promises fireworks, Top Rank’s undefeated super featherweight contender Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs) is gearing up for the most significant bout of his career as he takes on Puerto Rican contender Bryan Chevalier (20-1-1, 16 KOs). The 10-round battle is set to be the co-feature to the main event, showcasing O’Shaquie Foster vs. Abraham Nova, as part of the ESPN-televised tripleheader. The action-packed event is scheduled to take place on Friday, Feb. 16, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden, with live broadcast coverage on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Cortes, training from his hometown in Las Vegas, is leaving no stone unturned in preparation for this pivotal clash. With an undefeated streak that has caught the attention of the boxing world, Cortes is ready to elevate his career to new heights by taking on a challenging opponent like Chevalier. He’s training hard like never before.

“This is the moment I’ve been waiting for my entire career,” said Andres Cortes, who is managed by his brother and trainer, Luis Cortes, as he shared his thoughts on the upcoming battle. “This will be my first televised fight on the national stage and I’m going to show the world that I’m an elite fighter. Bryan Chevalier is a tough opponent, but I will not be denied in this fight. I’ve dedicated myself to pushing my limits in training. The hard work is paying off and its showing in my sparring. I’m feeling great and I’ll be at my best when I step in the ring on fight night.”

A victory in this bout would undoubtedly propel Cortes one step closer to a world title fight, solidifying his position in the super featherweight division.

“This fight is not just a steppingstone…it’s a giant leap towards a world title. Like myself, Chevalier is a dangerous fighter who is looking to take his career to the next level, so I know what I’m up against. The fans are going to see an all out Mexican vs. Puerto Rican war. I want to show the world that ‘Savage’ is here, and I’m ready for the top dogs in the division.”

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Undefeated super middleweight prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum

Prepared to make big statement this Saturday night in Phoenix

Story by Alexander Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (January 24, 2024) – The beat continues this Saturday night in Phoenix for undefeated super middleweight prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (9-0, 9 KOs) as he takes on the toughest test of his relatively young professional boxing career, former world title challenger Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-5-1, 13 KOs), on a show presented by Golden Boy Promotions.

Headlined by Jaime Munguia vs. John Ryder, all the action will be streamed on DAZN from Footprint Arena, including Fulghum’s 10^th pro fight.”

Two years ago, Fox unsuccessfully challenged David Morrell for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Super Middleweight World Championship, and he’s also fought two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade, as well as Liam Williams and Erik Bazinyan.  

“I’ve watched a lot of tape of him (Fox) and he’s the most experienced guy I’ve fought and the biggest test of my career,” the 27-year-old Fulghum said. “I want to make a big statement in this fight to showcase my skills. I’m looking forward to this great opportunity, fighting on a great platform again, DAZN.  

“I have a lot of experience, too (amateur and pros), and I’ve seen a lot of styles. I feel one of my best attributes is that my style is adaptable. No matter what the situation, I’ll figure it out. I want to get the world to recognize my talent and make an impression on everybody watching me fight. If they say after this fight that they need to see me fight again, I’ve accomplished what I’m setting out to do.”

Fulgham, who is a perfect 9-for-9 with 9 knockouts, will be fighting in his first scheduled 10-round bout against Fox. “If the knockout comes, it comes,” he noted. “I want to make a big statement and 10-for-10 would be a big statement. I trust my team, 3 PM (3 Point Management) and Golden Boy, and they’re moving me the way I should be. By the end of this year, I want to be in striking distance to names like Canelo and Benevidez because, eventually, those are the guys I want to fight. But I need to earn it first.

“I really haven’t made any drastic changes for my first 10-round fight. I prepare for every fight like it’s for a world title. Physically, I’ve made improvements and I’m even better prepared mentally for this fight because I’m locked in and understand the process.”

Fulghum was a decorated amateur boxer, ranked No. 1 in the USA as a heavyweight, despite fighting as a super middleweight as a professional. He captured top honors at the 2018 National Golden Gloves Tournament and 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, both major amateur accomplishments were achieved while he was earning a nursing degree from Prairie View A & M University.

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Former Canadian Lightweight champion Les Sprauge dies at age 83

By Henry Hascup

Les Sprauge – The former Canadian super lightweight champion, active from 1960 to 1968, died on January 13, 2024, at age 83. He was born in the same city in 1941 and compiled a record of 21-9-0 (KO 12/KO by 1). During his career, he defeated Fernard Simard, Tyrone Gardner, Jimmy Dorsey, Willie Williams, Bobby Barrett, Al Duarte, and Walter “Peanuts” Arsenault. He also engaged Eddie Perkins, Brad Silas, and Jack Clements.

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Rising Irish welterweight star Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan

Returns this Saturday in Belfast

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

NEW YORK (January 24, 2024) – Newly crowned World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Champion, rising Irish star Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (12-0, 9 KOs), returns to action this Saturday night (Jan. 27) at Ulster Hall in Belfast to make his first title defense against Williams Andres Herrera (15-2, 6 KOs) in a 10-round fight streaming live on DAZN. 

Donovan, who celebrated his 25^th birthday this past January 10^th, has also cracked the world ratings at No. 13 in the WBA, the result of his sensational fourth-round stoppage of English welterweight champion Danny Ball (13-2-1, 6 KOs) last November 25^th in Dublin on a DAZN pay-per-view headlined by the Irish superstar Katie Taylor-Chantelle Cameron rematch.

“I’m going into this fight with a new belt and ranked 13^th in the world,” fan favorite Donovan said. “I’m really hungry to just keep getting fights to keep shining on big stages. I love fighting, I love being the center of attention. I want to be world champion in the next 12 to 15 months. I’m building my resume under WBA sanctioning and Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs), from Lithuania, is the WBA Welterweight Champion. So, I’ve got my eye on him.”  

  

Fighting out of his native Argentina, Herrera is a 27-year-old former International Boxing Federation (IBF) Latino Super Welterweight Champion, whose 12-fight win streak was snapped in his last fight by way of a 10-round unanimous decision to Josh Wagner (16-0).

“Paddy has trained extremely hard for this fight and he’s really maturing into a world-class professional boxer,” Donovan’s head trainer Andy Lee added. “Watching his skills improve each day and also seeing how intelligent he is in the ring leads me to believe this will be another star performance from Paddy.”

Former world middleweight champion Lee also co-manages Donovan with New York City-based lawyer Keith Sullivan.

“We believe Paddy has the skill, talent and hunger to be a world champion,” Sullivan commented. “More importantly, he has the willingness to continue learning and developing under Andy’s meticulous training style.”

Donovan is using his boxing platform to promote the suicide prevention charity that provides mental health services throughout Ireland, Pieta House. Paddy lost two relatives to suicide. The Pieta Crisis Helpline, 1-800-247-247, offers crisis intervention support, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm and also supports those bereaved through suicide. “If I can get somebody to call that number and change their life,” Donovan believes, “I think my deed is done on this earth.”  

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LONG BEACH, CA (January 24, 2024) – CBN Promotions’ boxing series will kick off 2024 with “Super Brawl Saturday” this February 10th at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. In the 10-round super featherweight main event, Austin Brooks (11-0, 4 KOs), from La Mesa, CA, will square off against Jose Luis Rodriguez (25-15-1, 13 KOs), from Monterey, MX. The 8-round co-main event will showcase Tayden Beltran (7-0-1, 4 KOs), from Huntington Beach, CA, vs. an opponent to be announced, in a lightweight bout.

Doors open and the first bell for “Super Brawl Saturday” at 5:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

“We want to start the year with a bang!” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “2024 should be a great year for us and the boxers featured on our show, we will expand our brand to give fans the best and most entertaining matches out there. For that reason, we are excited to announce that our events will also air live on FuboTV as we continue to reach more people in the U.S. and internationally.”

“Super Brawl Saturday” will mark the beginning of an exclusive television deal between CBN Sports and Entertainment and FuboTV, which will air all of CBN’s events live, in addition to their event’s library. “We are proud that FuboTV is now part of our television distribution plan that includes Fox Deportes, Estrella TV and FightStars Network, and we will not stop there. Our boxers and fans will benefit with the tremendous outreach and television platforms we are creating,” concluded Camponovo.

“Brace yourselves for an incredible journey as we elevate our boxing series production and reach larger audiences,” stated Rolando Nichols, President of Thunder Studios. “Our aim is to extend an invitation to the Long Beach community and neighboring cities for all our shows. This is a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy an exceptional evening filled with thrilling boxing matches.”

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Super lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (4-0, 1 KO) from Jurupa Valley, CA, will face an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Super flyweight Stephanie Chavez (3-0) from Orange, CA, will battle Hailey Pasion (2-4) of Waipahu, HI. (6-rounds).

Super bantamweight Hector Lopez (3-0, 2 KOs) of Compton, CA, will face Rod Sarguilla (2-4), from Midsayap, Philippines. (6-rounds).

Opening up the show will be Jose Bravo (2-0, 2 KOs), from Los Angeles, CA, vs. an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.

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RDR Promotions Weigh In This Friday afternoon at Smalls Restaurants and Events (1649 West Hunting Park Ave.) at 4 PM ET

Isaiah Johnson vs Sebastian Gabriel Chaves

This Saturday Night at Harrahs Philadelphia

Massive Card Includes co-Feature Bout:

Devon Lee vs Rondale Hubbert

Plus Undefeated Fighters: Edwin Cortes, Devin Price, Jalique Holden, Erron Peterson and Pryce Taylor

Philadelphia, PA (January 24, 2024) — This Friday afternoon, RDR Promotions will hold the weigh in for a big night of boxing that will take a place one night later at Harrahs Philadelphia. The weigh in will take place at Smalls Restaurant and Events (1649 West Hunting Park Avenue) at 4 PM ET

ABOUT JANUARY 27

This Saturday Night, RDR Promotions opens up its new year with a massive 11-fight card at Harrah’s Philadelphia.

In the main event, undefeated welterweight Isaiah Johnson takes on Sebastian Gabriel Chaves in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

Johnson, 8-0 with six knockouts from Sicklerville, New Jersey is starting his third professional year and is coming off a third round stoppage over Marquis Hawthorne on May 27th in Newtown, Pennsylvania.

Chaves of Buenos Aires, Argentina has a record of 5-7 with two knockouts. The 29 year-old is a six-year professional. Chaves has a win over Dorian Maidana (5-0). Chaves is coming off a loss to Greg Outlaw on November 10, 2023 in Philadelphia.

In another co-feature bout, undefeated Devon Lee of Las Vegas will take on veteran Rondale Hubbert in an eight-round welterweight bout.

Lee, 29 years-old is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Now a eight-year veteran is coming off a five year ring hiatus as his previous ring appearance took place on September 7, 2019 with a first round stoppage over Abel Sepulveda in Tijuana, Mexico.

Hubbert of Duluth, Minnesota is 15-27-5 with nine knockouts. The 35 year-old Hubbert is a 12 year-pro with wins over Winston Anderson (4-0) and RJ Lasse (12-1). In his last outing, Hubbert lost a decision to Joseph Fernandez on November 18, 2023 in Tampa, Florida.

In Six-Round Bouts:

Erron Peterson (4-0-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Christopher Arguello (2-15-1, 2 KOs) of Colorado Springs in a middleweight contest.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Pryce Taylor (1-0, 1 KO) of Brooklyn will take on Gabriel Aguilar Costa (2-5) of Woburn, Mass. in a heavyweight bout.

Ghandi Romain (2-1, 2 KOs) of Union City, NJ fights Callan Harley (0-2) in a welterweight bout.

Eliezer Olmeda (4-4) of Gloucester, NJ takes on Donte Turner (3-2, 2 KOs) of Saint Louis in a welterweight fight.

Jalique Holden (5-0, 4 KOs) of Wilmington, DE squares off with Jacob Ray (0-3) of Covington, Kentucky in a junior lightweight contest.

Keith Jackson Jr. of Gloucester, NJ will make his pro debut against Tyler Nystrom (0-1) of Superior, Wisconsin in a middleweight bout.

Dante Selby (3-4-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA fights Dominique Mayfield (3-1) of Philadelphia in a heavyweight battle.

Devin Price (3-0, 2 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ will fight Dieumerci Nzau (11-16, 8 KOs) of Silver Spring, MD in a junior welterweight bout.

Josh Aarons (0-3) of Williamsport, PA boxes Edwin Cortes (4-0) of Millville, NJ in a bantamweight contest.

Tickets are $65, $75, $100 and $130 and can be purchased at rdrboxing@yahoo.com

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Arab boxers showcased worldwide on streaming platforms

Moussa Gholam improves to 21-1with fourth-round knockout 

“Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution” Results

 ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (January 2024) – Arab boxers were showcased under the stars on last night’s “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution,” promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), at Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“Rising Star Arabia: The Revolution,” sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission, was streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, in addition to being broadcasted on Abu Dhabi Sports TV.

Providing a platform to showcase the best of Arab boxing talent to international and regional audiences, the Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series is the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as well as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region,

Moroccan super featherweight Moussa Gholam, already a legitimate world-class fighter who was world ranked as high as No. 14 prior to an injury that sidelined him last fall, improved to 21-1 (13 KOs) with a fourth-round stoppage of “Baby” Lunga Sitemela (15-2, 9 KOs), the former South African Super Featherweight Champion. Gholam, 28, is a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Inter-Continental and WBC Youth Silver Super Featherweight Champion.

In the co-featured event, UAE favorite Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (13-1, 3 KOs) extended his win streak to 12, winning by way of a sixth-round technical knockout against lightweight Milner Marcano (24-13, 20 KOs), of Venezuela.

Jordanian Bader “The Master” Samreen (10-0, 8 KOs) remained undefeated, taking a 10-round majority decision from the United Kingdom’s upset minded Jeff Ofori in a Special Lightweight Attraction. The 23-year-old Samreen captured a bronze medal as an amateur at the 2018 AIBA Youth World Championships, moving to Dubai in 2021 to enhance his boxing career.  

One of boxing’s best kept secrets, undefeated Syrian Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekdash (27-0, 23 KOs) remained undefeated, but he was extended the full decision for only the fourth time, decisioning heavyweight Shaban Hamadi Jongo (11-4-2, 10 KOs),  a former Tanzanian Cruiserweight Champion, in their competitive eight-round bout.

Promising Iraqi super middleweight Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (3-0, 1 KO) won five of six rounds for a six-round unanimous decision versus Bervely Garcia Gonzalez (5-7, 1 KO), of Mexico.

Also fighting on the undercard, Moroccan super lightweight Anas Hafiane (2-0, 1 KO) pitched a four-round shutout, winning each round on all three’ judges’ scorecards, against Batamezee Iddi (0-2), of Uganda; Jordanian welterweight Hisham Osama Majed Elisimreen (2-0, 2 KOs) knocked out Indonesia’s Riva Kundimang (9-8-2, 5 KOs) in the third round, Saudi Arabian super lightweight Sulaiman Abbar (2-0, 1 KO) recorded a fourth-round stoppage of Tanzania’s Salum Omari (1-3, 0 KOs), UAE middleweight Fahad Alkhoori (3-0, 3 KOs) remained perfect with a third-round knockout of Shahzada Sohail (0-3), of Pakistan, and Uganda super welterweight Isaac Zebra Junior (2-0, 2 KOs) needed only half of the opening round to finish off Egypt’s Ibrahem Kandel (1-6-1, 0 KOs).

The third installment of the “Rising Stars Arabia” series is scheduled in early March followed by the fourth in June.

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

DCT Abu Dhabi is responsible for promoting, protecting, and progressing the emirate by driving the strategic and sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors. As part of its mandate, the department is responsible for promoting regional and global sporting events in the emirate.

Complete results below:

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RA’EESE “THE BEAST” ALEEM

Ra’eese Aleem Eager for Big Fights in 2024

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 24, 2024) – Super bantamweight WBO #5 contender Ra’eese Aleem (20-1, 12 KOs), is fervent about his desire for a rematch on U.S. soil with Sam Goodman (17-0, 7 KOs), following their intense bout in June of 2023. Aleem, determined to rectify the outcome of their last encounter, aims to secure a rematch with Goodman to prove his worth and showcase his growth as a fighter.

“I’m hearing Goodman wants to come to the States to secure a fight with a top name, and I’m ready for a rematch,” said Aleem. “I fought him on his home turf, now he should honor a rematch against me on my home turf. I lost a split decision and it’s only fair I get a rematch.”

Despite the loss, Aleem remains determined and is open to facing other formidable opponents if a rematch with Goodman can’t be made. Three other potential contenders on Aleem’s radar are Stephen Fulton (21-1, 8 KOs), TJ Doheny (25-4, 19 KOs), and Murodjon Akhmadaliev (12-1, 9 KOs). Aleem believes that a victory over either of these accomplished fighters would solidify his position in the super bantamweight division and propel him closer to his ultimate goal.

Aleem’s ambitious aspirations extend beyond his fights with top contenders, as he sets his sights on the reigning undisputed champion, Naoya Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs). Aleem is eager to climb the ranks and earn a shot at the coveted super bantamweight titles currently held by Inoue.

“I have learned from every fight, and I am ready to face any challenge that comes my way. A rematch with Goodman is my priority, but I am more than willing to take on Fulton, Doheny, Akhmadaliev, or anyone else who stands in my path. Ultimately, my goal is to become the super bantamweight champion, and Inoue is the man to beat,” concluded Aleem.

“I believe Aleem is one fight away from getting a shot at Inoue,” stated Greg Hannley, Aleem’s manager. “One big win against a top contender will put him in a great position. Ra’eese has been training hard, waiting for his name to be called. I have no doubt, he’ll be ready to go when that time comes.”

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Granite Chin Promotions returns to Bridgewater, partnering again with Fire For Effect Foundation

“Fight Night at the Vets Club”

February 24 in Bridgewater, Mass.

QUINCY, Mass. (January 24, 2024) – Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) is partnering again with the Fire For Effect Foundation, presenting an evening of professional boxing, “Fight Night at The Vets Club,” on February 24^th at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.

Based in Bridgewater, the mission of the Fire For Effect Foundation is to honor and empower veterans, first responders and their families by providing essential resources, support and community-building initiatives that foster resilience, restore hope, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Go to www.ffefinc.org for more information.

“Teaming up with Fire For Effect Foundation has been a blast,” GCP president Chris Traietti commented. “We were already putting on fun local cards at the Vets Club, now we are also giving back to the community and helping local veterans through FFEF.  The staff there have been a great help in offering some of their resources to make these events better and better.  February 24^th will be the best Granite Chin event at the Vets Club to date, I have no doubt.”

Popular Scituate (MA) heavyweight Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (6-0, 6 KOs) will headline his first card as well as fight in his first scheduled six-round bout. Nagle faces the toughest test of his relatively young pro career against dangerous Mexican boxer Alfredo “Concho” Trevino (9-10-1, 1 KO).

“Honestly,” Nagle said, “Chris has brought me 10-times further than my expectations. I’m grateful. It’s all him; I mean I train hard and fight, but he has taken me under his wing and laid things out. He has been checking in to help motivate my weight loss. Steve Vukosa has been doing all the technical planning and training for me. It’s a friendship. I trust Chris and Steve without question.

“All my fights have been fun. I have the luxury of having a lot of acquaintances at my age, so every fight has been like a reunion. I’m not a social person but people I haven’t seen in years come to my fights. I’m grateful they pay to see me fight over and over.

“I fought as an amateur for a few years before I went to Iraq (U.S. Army). I never thought I’d get to do this. I want my kids to grow up knowing I didn’t wimp out on my dream because of age.”

The co-featured event matches Lynn (MA) super middleweight James “Pitbull” Perkins (13-1-1, 9 KOs) versus an opponent to be determined in a six-rounder.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring on the 24^th and putting on a good show for the fans,” gravedigger Perkins remarked. “My goal in 2024 is to continue getting better each fight and to fight good quality opponents. I’m taking it one fight at a time.”

Also scheduled to fight on the undercards, all in separate four-round bouts, are Swansea (MA) super middleweight Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (4-3, 1 KO), Marshfield (MA) welterweight Joe Bush (1-0, 1 KO), and Barrington (NH) middleweight Ryan Clark (3-5, 2 KOs).

Andreozzi, a former Massachusetts Middleweight Champion, has been out of action for more than a year due to a seriously broken leg he suffered in his last fight. He shattered the tip of his fibula into pieces and completely severed a few ligaments while trying to walk it off. Andreozzi had two surgeries, inserting a plate, five screws and a bolt that, unfortunately, resulted in a bone infection.

“I’m getting back into rhythm,” he noted. “It’s taken a little while, although I’m ahead of most projected timelines. The bones healed up strong and healthy, so I’m not necessarily worried about reinjuring it.

“I make my comeback exactly one year to the day that I had my first surgery. This year I’m coming back thicker, slicker, and more cold-hearted than before. I got faces to break and souls to take.”

A 2023 New England Golden Gloves Silver Medalist, the 26-year-old Bush is excited to be fighting less than 20 miles from his home.

“I expect a large crowd for this fight because it’s so close to my hometown,” he explained. “I want to give the fans a great fight. It’s the least I can do for the support I receive from them. It’s going to be an entertaining match. My goal is another knockout and I see no issue reaching this goal.”

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $75.00 (VIP stage seating), $65.00 (floor seats), $45.00 (standing room only), and $400.00 for ringside tables of 4 are available for purchase at www.Granite-Chin-Promotions.ticketleap.com.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.

Bridgewater TV is filming the event.

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Isaiah Johnson vs Sebastian Gabriel Chaves

This Saturday Night at Harrahs Philadelphia

Massive Card Includes co-Feature Bout:

Devon Lee vs Rondale Hubbert

Plus Undefeated Fighters: Edwin Cortes, Steve Cunningham Jr., Devin Price, Jalique Holden, Hakeem Harmon, Erron Peterson and Pryce Taylor

Philadelphia, PA (January 24, 2024) — This Saturday Night, RDR Promotions opens up its new year with a massive 14-fight card at Harrah’s Philadelphia.

In the main event, undefeated welterweight Isaiah Johnson takes on Sebastian Gabriel Chaves in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

Johnson, 8-0 with six knockouts from Sicklerville, New Jersey is starting his third professional year and is coming off a third round stoppage over Marquis Hawthorne on May 27th in Newtown, Pennsylvania.

Chaves of Buenos Aires, Argentina has a record of 5-7 with two knockouts. The 29 year-old is a six-year professional. Chaves has a win over Dorian Maidana (5-0). Chaves is coming off a loss to Greg Outlaw on November 10, 2023 in Philadelphia.

In another co-feature bout, undefeated Devon Lee of Las Vegas will take on veteran Rondale Hubbert in an eight-round welterweight bout.

Lee, 29 years-old is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Now a eight-year veteran is coming off a five year ring hiatus as his previous ring appearance took place on September 7, 2019 with a first round stoppage over Abel Sepulveda in Tijuana, Mexico.

Hubbert of Duluth, Minnesota is 15-27-5 with nine knockouts. The 35 year-old Hubbert is a 12 year-pro with wins over Winston Anderson (4-0) and RJ Lasse (12-1). In his last outing, Hubbert lost a decision to Joseph Fernandez on November 18, 2023 in Tampa, Florida.

In Six-Round Bouts:

Erron Peterson (4-0-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Christopher Arguello (2-15-1, 2 KOs) of Colorado Springs in a middleweight contest.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Pryce Taylor (1-0, 1 KO) of Brooklyn will take on an opponent to be named in a heavyweight bout.

Ghandi Romain (2-1, 2 KOs) of Union City, NJ fights Callan Harley (0-2) in a welterweight bout.

Eliezer Olmeda (4-4) of Gloucester, NJ takes on Donte Turner (3-2, 2 KOs) of Saint Louis in a welterweight fight.

Hakeem Harmon (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a welterweight contest.

Jalique Holden (5-0, 4 KOs) of Wilmington, DE squares off with Jacob Ray (0-3) of Covington, Kentucky in a junior lightweight contest.

Keith Jackson Jr. of Gloucester, NJ will make his pro debut against Tyler Nystrom (0-1) of Superior, Wisconsin in a middleweight bout.

Dante Selby (3-4-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA fights Dominique Mayfield (3-1) of Philadelphia in a heavyweight battle.

Devin Price (3-0, 2 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ will fight Dieumerci Nzau (11-16, 8 KOs) of Silver Spring, MD in a junior welterweight bout.

Steve Cunningham Jr, (2-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh, PA will fight an opponent to be named in a junior middleweight contest.

Josh Aarons (0-3) of Williamsport, PA boxes Edwin Cortes (4-0) of Millville, NJ in a bantamweight contest.

Tickets are $65, $75, $100 and $130 and can be purchased at rdrboxing@yahoo.com

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Developing Arabian boxers to be showcased 

this Saturday in Abu Dhabi

“Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution”

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (January 11, 2024) – Rapidly developing Arabian boxers will be showcased on this Saturday’s “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution” card, promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), outdoors at Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The boxing world knows many of today’s most significant and lucrative boxing events  are held in the Middle East, but they may be unaware that this region also has world-class fighters such as Moroccan super featherweight Moussa Gholam (20-1, 12 KOs), in addition to a growing group of promising prospects and solid veterans such as United Arab Emirati lightweight Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (12-1, 2 KOs), Jordanian lightweight Bader “The Master” Samreen (9-0, 8 KOs), Syrian cruiserweight Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekdash (26-0, 23 KOs) and Iraqi light heavyweight Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (2-0, 1 KO). All are scheduled to be in action this Saturday.

Innovative promoter Ahmed Seddiqi is on a mission to introduce Arabian boxing talent to the world, believing the “Rising Stars Arabia” series will continue developing boxing talent in this region. Seddiqi has promoted many events, but he took a break to focus on his company and gym. On the 10^th anniversary of Round 10 Boxing Club, he decided to showcase regional talents, focusing on promoting shows to showcase boxers from the Middle East and North Africa countries, of which Arabs comprised 98-percent, for the first time in boxing history.   

“This series will be a solid platform for the region and the world to see the talent we have here,” Seddiqi explained. “A lot of promotions are happening in our region, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi, but there are only one or two Arab fighters on the undercard. It is disappointing for me to see that, and this series will start pushing more fighters on big cards. The main goal is to have a superstar from our region and to start headlining main events in our region and around the world.”

The Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission. Western promoters generally don’t promote Arab talent, but now they will have no choice other than to start promoting them due to Seddiqi’s vision and initiatives.

 “Rising Star Arabia: The Revolution” will be streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, as well as broadcast on Abu Dhabi Sports TV, starting at 8 p.m. UAEST (11 a.m. EST and 8 a.m. PST).

“There was a considerable hiatus between our first event (Sept. 9, 2023) and the second due to circumstances,” Seddiqi noted, “but momentum starts this Saturday, and it will continue with the third installment of our series in March, and fourth in June.

“This event will be extraordinary as it takes place outdoors at a golf club with a stunning backdrop of Yas Island and the beautiful surroundings of the mangroves.”

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi is responsible for promoting, protecting, and progressing the emirate by driving the strategic and sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors. As part of its mandate, the department is responsible for promoting regional and global sporting events in the emirate.

Tickets to Rising Stars Arabia are on sale now at https://swiy.co/rsa2. Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com.

Below is an updated bout sheet:

Moussa Gholam to headline “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution” 

January 13 in Abu Dhabi,  UAE

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (January 6, 2024) – Moroccan super featherweight Moussa Gholam (20-1, 12 KOs) will headline “Rising Stars Arabia: The Revolution,” promoted by AAM Seddiqi Sports and sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), on January 13^th at Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The Rising Stars Arabia (RSA) series is the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, providing a platform to showcase the best of Arab boxing talent to international and regional audiences.

Sanctioned by the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission, “Rising Star Arabia: The Revolution” will be streamed live on DAZN and ESPN Knockout, as well as broadcast on Abu Dhabi Sports TV, starting at 8 p.m. UAEST (11 a.m. EST and 8 a.m. PST).

“2024 will be a significant year for Rising Stars Arabia,” promoter Ahmed Seddiqi said. “It’s the second edition of the series and we are thrilled to have world-class boxer Moussa Gholam perform globally on DAZN and ESPN KO. We’re also excited about other exceptional talents such as UAE national Fahad Ali Baloushi, Bader Samreen and the extraordinary talent from Iraq, Amer Kadhum Ghaneem.

“My hope is for Moroccans to come support their fighter, Emiratis to back their warrior, and all other Arab nationals on the card to have their supporters and fanbase present live on January 13^th at Yas Links Abu Dhabi. None of this would have been possible without our partners from the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi and our broadcasting partners, DAZN and ESPN Knockout.”

Gholam, who was rated No. 14 by the World Boxing Council WBC) at the time, was originally scheduled to headline the inaugural “Rising Stars Arabia” event this past September 9^th.  However, he was forced to withdraw due to an injury suffered during training camp, but he returns eager to establish himself as the future of Arab boxing in his Middle East debut fight.

The 28-year-old Gholam will take on South African “Baby” Lunga Sitemela (15-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event. Gholam is a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Inter-Continental and WBC Youth Silver Super Featherweight Champion. Sitemela is a former South African Super Featherweight Champion.

The 10-round co-featured event pits hometown favorite Fahad “Kid Emirati” Al Bloushi (12-1, 2 KOs) against veteran Milner Marcano (24-12, 20 KOs), of Argentina. Al Bloushi, the pride of UAE, has won his last 11 fights in a row.

A Special Lightweight Attraction features red-hot Bader “The Master” Samreen (9-0, 8 KOs), the first professional boxer from Jordan, against the United Kingdom’s Jeff Ofori (13-5-2, 4 KOs) in a 10-round bout. Samreen, 23, captured a bronze medal as an amateur at the 2018 AIBA Youth World Championships. He turned pro in 2021 and moved to Dubai to enhance his boxing career.  

Opening the streaming segment of the evening is one of the best kept secrets in boxing, Syria’s undefeated cruiserweight force Mohammed “The Destroyer” Bekdash (26-0, 23 KOs), in an eight-round match versus Shaban Hamadi Jongo (11-3-2, 10 KOs), of Tanzania. Devastating puncher Bekdash is riding a 14-fight knockout streak dating back to 2015, while the dangerous Jongo is a former Tanzania Cruiserweight Champion.

Fighting on the undercard in six-round matches are Iraq light heavyweight Amer Kadhum Ghaneem (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Marcela German Rodriguez (0-1), of Argentina, and  Jordan’s Hisham Osama Majed Elsimreen (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Riva Kundimang (9-7-2, 5 KOs), of Indonesia, at a 152-pound catchweight.

Also scheduled to be in action, all in four-rounders, are Moroccan Anas Hafiane (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Uganda’s Batamazee Iddi (0-1) at a 143-pound catchweight, Saudi Arabian super lightweight Sulaiman Abbar (1-0, 0 KOs) vs. Salum Omari (1-2 (0 KOs), of Tanzania, and UAE middleweight Fahad Alkhoori (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Pakistan’s Shahzada Sohail (0-3).

Card subject to change.

AAM Seddiqi Sports has been promoting and managing fighters in the region for 10 years and it has a growing stable of more than 30 gifted regional and global talents. Its events include five world title shows that have been broadcasted globally on ESPN, Sky Sports, and other major networks.

DCT Abu Dhabi is responsible for promoting, protecting, and progressing the emirate by driving the strategic and sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors. As part of its mandate, the department is responsible for promoting regional and global sporting events in the emirate.

Tickets to Rising Stars Arabia are on sale now at https://swiy.co/rsa2. Leading up to the event, fans can find updates on the AAM Seddiqi Sports Instagram channel @seddiqiboxing and on seddiqiboxing.com.

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Heavyweights Gurgen Hovhannisyan, Tsotne Rogava and Dante Stone shine in Impressive victories to open 2024 boxing

“Pit Stop on Road to Greatness” Results

TACOMA, Wash. (January 5, 2024) – Last night’s first worldwide pro boxing event of 2004, “Pit Stop on Road to Greatness,” presented by Toro Promotions and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, showcased leading heavyweight prospects who were each impressive at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

“Pit Stop on Road to Greatness” was streamed live on www.bxngtv.com.

It took Armenian heavyweight Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan (5-0, 5 KOs) a few rounds to shake off rust, but 6’ 7”, 278-pounder closed the main event with a devastating fifth-round knockout of a game Colby Madison (11-7-2, 7 KOs).

The 25-year-old “Big Gug” hadn’t fought since stopping Micharl Polite Coffie (13-2) on October 15, 2022, and his inactivity showed early against Madison. The fight was somewhat competitive until Madison caught Hovhannisyan with an overhead right in the fourth round that got Gurgen’s attention. He came out for the following round with a vengeance, trapped Madison in a corner, pummeling his opponent with a barrage of unanswered punches, until he crumbled to the canvas for a stirring end to their fight.

In the co-featured event, 2020 Ukrainian Olympian Tsotne Rogava stole the show in his Toro Promotions debut, brutally beating down previously undefeated heavyweight Dante Williams (4-1, 4 KOs) for an awesome knockout midway through the opening round. The Georgia-born Rogava, who stands 6’ 5” and weighed-in at 265 pounds, threw punches that sounded like cannon shots.

Hovhannisyan and Rogava are both trained by Hall of Famer Joe Goossen.

The Special Heavyweight Attraction matching Dante Stone and Alexander “The Great” Flores more than lived up to the pre-fight hype in a crossroads fight that opened the show. Stone (15-1, 10 KOs) extended his winning streak to 15 with an inspiring eight-round unanimous decision over Flores (18-4-1, 15 KOs), who’s previous three losses were all to world champions.

There was only knockdown, more of the flash version, when Stone connected with an overhand right in the eighth round that caught Flores, who fought valiantly from start to finish.

Nicaraguan super featherweight Nilo Guerrero (7-0, 6 KOs) turned in an auspicious United States debut, decking Chancellor Battenberg (2:51) in the first and second rounds, the latter leading to a technical knockout. Guerrero’s younger brother, bantamweight Nelson (2-0, 2 KOs), took on Gilberto Duran (4-8, 4 KOs) in an entertaining battle. Duran hit the mat twice in a bout that was stopped midway through the fourth round in Guerrero’s favor.

Tik Tok sensation Elijah Seawright (10-0, 7 KOs) won a six-round unanimous decision versus super welterweight Henry Rivera (2-3, 1 KO).

Local lightweight Agustin Tovar (1-0) pitched a shutout, winning all four rounds, for a unanimous decision against Ezra Rabin (1-5, 1 KO).

Fans who waited around for the final walkout bout of the night were treated to a non-stop action match, in which another local favorite, Nathan “Superman” Stolen (1-0, 1 KO), won his pro debut by way of a second-round technical knockout over Dazjhante “Flash” Frazier (0-2).

Complete results below:

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Philly Favorite Christian Carto Headlines against Ardin Diale on Friday, January 12 at Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia

Undefeated Atif Oberlton, Ibrahim Robinson, Jaclyne McTamney and Ismail Muhammad

Plus Quadir Albright and More

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

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Heavyweight Crossroads Fight

Dante Stone vs. Alexander Flores

“Pit Stop on Road to Greatness”

This Thursday night at famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (January 2, 2024) – A heavyweight crossroads fight between Dante Stone (14-1, 10 KOs) and Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-3-1, 16 KOs) will be the first streamed pro boxing match of 2024 this Thursday evening at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

“Pit Stop on Road to Greatness” card, presented by Toro Promotions and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com pay per view for $19.99, opening with Stone versus Flores in an eight-round Special Heavyweight Attraction. 

“Nobody knows how this fight will play out in terms of both the result and aesthetics of it. co-promoter Whit Haydon noted. “But the winner will get a good bounce off of the win and have something solid to point to on his resume. People are split across the board as to who they think will win.

“Also, this will be the first fight of the night and will open the pay-per-view telecast, effectively making this the very first fight worldwide of 2024.”

Fighting out of Chandler, Arizona, the 29-year-old Stone lost his pro debut in 2018 by way of a four-round unanimous decision, but he’s been unbeaten ever since with 14 straight wins. The 6’ 3”, 260-pound Stone is stepping up in terms of quality opposition against Flores, whose three career losses have been to world champions Luis Ortiz, Joseph Parker, and Charles Martin.

Flores, 33, stands 6’ 4” and weighs 230-pounds. He hasn’t fought in three years, although during this inactive streak the native of Rowland Heights, California, made six appearances in one-round Team Combat League (TCL) contests, in addition to one bare knuckle fight.

The 10-round main event is headlined by undefeated Armenian prospect Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan (4-0, 4 KOs), who is matched against dangerous Colby Madison (11-6-2, 7 KOs).  The 6’ 7”, 275-pound Hovhannisyan, now living in Los Angeles, hasn’t fought in more than a year since his impressive sixth-round knockout of Michael Polite Coffie (13-2).

Another Eastern European-born heavyweight, 30-year-old Ukraine Olympian Tsotne Rogava (3-0, 3 KOs), will be showcased in the six-round co-featured event against undefeated Dante Williams (4-0, 4 KOs). The 6’ 5”, 270-pound Rogava is a former kickboxing champion, who was born in Georgia, raised in Ukraine, and resides in Los Angeles.

The Guerrero brothers, undefeated super featherweight Nilo (6-0, 5 KOs) and bantamweight Nelson (1-0, 1 KO), will both be fighting for their first in the United States, respectively in six and four-round fights, against . Chancellor Battenberg (4-3, 4 KOs) and Gilberto Duran (4-7, 4 KOs).

Undefeated South Carolina super welterweight Elijah Seawright (9-0, 7 KOs), a Tik Tok sensation from South Carolina, meets Henry Rivera (2-2, 1 KO) in a six-rounder.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard is Seattle super welterweight Agustin Tovar (0-1) vs. pro-debuting Nathan “Superman” Stolen, and pro-debuting Auburn (WA) super lightweight Agustin Tovar vs. Oakland’s Ezra Rabin (1-4, 1 KO).

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale now for $100.00, $70.00, and $45.00 and may be purchased online at https://emeraldqueen.com/boxing/ or by calling (253) 594-7777.  Tickets purchased at the Emerald Queen Shop are eligible for up to a 20-discount, plus no taxes or processing fees. Must be 21 years of age to attend. 

Doors open at 6 p.m. PT, first bout at 7 p.m. PT.

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Tyson Fury to take on Oleksnader Usyk for Undisputed Heavyweight Championship

 

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

At long last, on February 17 in Saudi Arabia, the greatest Heavyweight on the planet Tyson Fury will take on the other Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk in an attempt to establish himself as the undisputed champion. Although there will be a fight’s two-way rematch provision in their contracts, both fighters’ contracts are set to expire at the end of 2024.

If Fury pulls off the win, which is expected, the Brit would like to take on Francis Ngannou once more.

“I’m not a big rematch fan. I just think that it kind of takes the prize out of the prizefight. The use of rematch clause is a new phenomenon that’s come in the last probably decade and a half. So I’m not a big rematch fan but you have to understand that there are rematch clauses in fights and it’s more of the norm today. Let’s hope that they put on such a great fight that it warrants a rematch,” said Todd DuBoef.

As for who Anthony Joshua will fight next, promoter Eddie Hearn named Zhilei Zhang, Filip Hrgovic and Francis Ngannou as potential options, Promoter Hearn apparently wrongfully believes that former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder is no longer an exciting bout. “The people who wanted to put the fight on no longer see that as the fight that it was,” said Hearn.

“The numbers don’t work now because Wilder’s a busted flush at the moment. It’s a mismatch in my opinion.”

The question is how is it a “mismatch” when Joshua won a bout against a highly undermatched and outgunned opponent in Wallin. Surely Wilder is certainly a bigger draw than virtual nobodies like Zhilei Zhang, Filip Hrgovic and Francis Ngannou. With the exception of Ngannou, most of the world, if not all of the world never heard of either Zhang or Hrgovic. Why are they not even considering former champion Andy Ruiz in the mix? 

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Anthony Joshua stops Otto Wallin via stoppage after Round 5

Deontay Wilder loses surprising decision against Joseph Parker

Notwithstanding, Joshua – Wilder but may still be on for 2024

Story by Joseph Rinaldi

In the Main Event double header, two of boxing’s heavyweight giants Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder squared off with two other fighters with the understanding that if both top rung heavyweight Widler and Joshua should win – then a battle between the both of them would be set for March 2024 in Saudi Arabia.

Unfortunately, as the Scottish poet Robert Burns once wrote “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” Though this quote later became the source of the John Steinbeck book Mice and Men, the theme is prevalent nonetheless as to the future of the Joshua vs Wilder bout. 

Though the formidable Deontay Wilder was a 5-1 favorite going into the bout against former WBO heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker, after 12 rounds it was Parker who captured the win by unanimous decision,  

Although all three judges scored it for Parker – The USA Boxing News tabbed it a draw.

It was a relatively pedestrian affair with virtually no action at all.  For some reason Wilder, wearing black sparkly trunks with a gold crown in front and black gloves, came in at a relatively low 218 pounds and never seemed to get into the groove of the fight. Instead of loading up on right hands that packed the power of Thor, Wilder kept trying to establish the left jab and repeatedly circled away from Parker as if the New Zealander was carrying an axe. Seeing this Parker, wearing burgundy trunks with gold trim and burgundy gloves, got his courage going and was the aggressor of the bout. Not that he threw a lot of punches or ever seriously hurt Wilder, for no man came close to knocking down the other, the bout was relatively a Bore Fest.

With the exception of round eight when Parker (34-3, 23 KO’s) clocked Wilder with a hard overhand right, there was no real action in the entire twelve rounds. Wilder just looked to have an off day. Though he did land some punches throughout the bout, sometimes even enough to win some rounds, he never came close to knocking out his prey.

The problem was that Wilder was fighting a shorter man and kept landing high with his punches and missed with most of his shots as Parker either ducked or swerved away from the blows. He should have re-grouped and threw more left hooks and uppercuts to silence a smaller man. Unfortunately, he never changed his style, which was a losing one at that, throughout the fight.

Possibly he took the fight too lightly – a mistake of many fighters over the years, whatever the reason, Wilder (43-3-1, 42 KO’s) did not look like himself as he handed the tough Parker the 34th win of his career. Although he earned a minimum of $10 million for his efforts, hopefully the loss does not derail him in a super fight against Joshua.

Despite this loss, Wilder’s boxing career is not over, as he said after the defeat: “We came out short tonight. You know what, I don’t know what happened, to be honest. My timing was off, and I didn’t throw my punches, I didn’t let my hands go like I was supposed to. Sometimes you get like that. But you live to see another fight. You live to see another moment.”

“I’m still full of happiness, still full of joy, still full of smiles. Sorry if I let anyone down but we will be back though! That’s the thing about it.

“I thank you so much for the love and support I’ve got out here in Riyadh and from all my fans around the world. I appreciate you so much.

“This is not the end, and I will be back. We’ll see what happens, we still have a little bit left, but I did a great job managing my money. I’m a happy fighter. I’ll be back, and if not, then it’s been a pleasure,” Wilder said. “I don’t know [if I still have the same fire I used to], a lot has calmed me down. I’ve been wearing this smile all week long and I’m still wearing it. Nothing can stop me on that.”

As for Parker, he could not have been any more thrilled by his huge win. “Everyone had other plans, but this is God’s plan,” Parker said. “This is massive and the best opponent I’ve ever faced. Tyson Fury gave us his time with sparring and was massively important.”

After the Wilder-Parker fight ended Anthony Joshua entered the ring against southpaw Otto Wallin who hails from Sundsval, Sweden, but now resides in New York City. Although Wallin entered the ring with a rather impressive record of 26-1, once the bell rang, whatever fight he had in him must have been disbursed and lost in the sands of the Arabian desert before the sound of the opening bell.

Wallen was never in the fight, nor did he even attempt to spar with the former champion Joshua – much less win. Considering his bulky build, one would have thought that the size of his heart would be commensurate with the size of his height. Instead, both his guts and his heart appeared to be no bigger than that of a goldfish, which is actually an insult to a goldfish.

To his credit, Joshua came out relatively aggressive behind his lead right and left jabs at the body and head of Wallin. Not surprisingly, it was like shooting fish in a barrel as Joshua literally landed every punch in his arsenal. For some reason or another, Wallen looked like he was glad to be there, but offered no real effort at all beyond some pawing rights that would make a teddy bear look like King Kong.

In round five Joshua went on the attack and bludgeoned Wallin (26-2, 14 KO’s) all over the ring like a heavyweight punching bag until Wallen was saved by the bell.

After the round, Wallen’s corner abruptly turned tail and stopped the bout, thereby denying Joshua and the crowd an impressive KO victory.

“I wasn’t watching [Wilder’s loss],” Joshua (27-3, 24 KO’s) said after the fight. “I just focus on myself. I knew how important this fight was for me. I heard Deontay lost, so what? I’m sure he’ll come back. … Deontay? Everything he said about me, I could rip him apart right now but I’ll take the high ground.”

As for his proposed bout with Wilder, Joshua said, “I’m not too sure what can happen from here, but I’m sure from a fan perspective they’ll be more annoyed,” Joshua said at the “Day of Reckoning” post-fight press conference. “For me, I always understand how this game is. You never know. This is elite level boxing. Wilder just came up short but he’ll live to fight another day.

“Me and him can still get it on, we can still get it cracking,” he added. “I believe I’m a massive threat. I still think Wilder is a threat, and I still think it does amazing numbers if you get it on. But I’ll leave that down to my management, trainers, promoters, to make the decision. I’m down to fight anyone, whenever, and whoever.”

Hopefully, Wilder’s loss will soon be forgotten as a fluke, or one of those invisible losses,  and the Joshua-Wilder fight can be made because sadly, no one is looking for a Joshua-Parker rematch anywhere in this world.

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OVERSEAS BOXING MATCHES

Story by Per-Ake Persson

 

 

WBA light heavy champ Dmitry Bivol, 22-0 (11 KO’s), defeats IBO kingpin Lyndon “King” Arthur, 23-2 (16 KO’s) to retain title

Former champs Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker earn wins on giant Saudi Arabia fight card

Riyad, Saudi Arabia. Frank Warren’s Queensferry Promotions and Riyadh Season joined forces and put together an eight-fight show where at least four were of outstanding quality, three were decent and there was one mismatch.

 

In the main event former heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua, 27-3 (24 KO’s) looked tense and hesitant during the fight week but at the weigh in it was like the “Old” AJ returned while his opponent, New York City-based Swede Otto “Alli In” Wallin, 26-2-0-1 (14 KO’s), had enjoyed fight week but looked under pressure at the weigh in and it was the same during fight night.

Joshua, 34, picked his shots well and a right to the body seemed to bother Wallin, 33, who never got untracked. His southpaw style did not give AJ any problems and it became a one-sided fight.

 

In the fifth Joshua landed with a left hook and Wallin staggered backwards. His nose was injured, his right eye was swollen, and he did not really seem to know where he was. Head coach Joey Gamache thus retired his fighter. To some it looked a bit premature, but the fight was lost for Wallin. This was simply not his night.

 

 “Well, victory by any means,” explained Joshua. “So, when I pray, one of the things I know is that every cell, my spirit, my mind is leading towards victory. And like with Otto, we just want to do whatever it takes to be victorious, because in this game, it’s a treacherous business. It’s like snakes and ladders. One win gets you up the ladder and a [loss] takes you all the way back down. So, all I want to do is just be victorious for as long as I can.”

 

In the co-feature New Zealand’s Joseph Parker, 34-3 (23 KO’s), upset former WBC heavyweight king Deontay Wilder, 43-3-1 (42 KO’s), in a surprisingly lopsided battle between two former heavyweight champs. Wilder, 213, fought as if he was waiting for something to happen while the ex-WBO heavyweight champ Parker, 31, carefully cut the ring and won rounds by simply outjabbing his opponent.

 

Parker, 254 ¼, hurt Wilder, 38, in the eighth for the only highlight of the fight. It was scored 120-108, 118-111 and 118-110. Parker, trained by Andy Lee, retained the WBO I-C title and added the vacant WBC Int’l belt to his collection.

“We came up short tonight,” said Wilder. “I don’t know what happened to be honest. My timing was off, and I didn’t let my hands go like I was supposed to. Sometimes it gets like that, but you live to see another fight. You live to see another moment, that’s all that matters. I’m still full of happiness, I’m still full of joy and still full of smiles. Sorry if I let anyone down. But we’ll be back though, that’s the good thing about it.”

A happy Parker remarked afterwards, “Stay calm, stay relaxed, stay focused, switch on for every second, every minute of every round, and that’s what I did. There’re always things to work on, but today we got the win. Merry Christmas to us.”

WBA light heavy champ Dmitry Bivol, 22-0 (11 KO’s), won over IBO kingpin Lyndon “King” Arthur, 23-2 (16 KO’s). Arthur, 174 ¼, knew he was in tough and fought to survive. Bivol was very patient, walked his opponent down but seldom changed the pace and Arthur looked content by losing round after round.

 

In the eleventh Bivol, 174 ½, finally opened up and Arthur went down from a left hook to the body. He lasted the distance though and lost on scores of 1120-107 on all cards.

The fight of the night was perhaps the battle between heavyweights Daniel Dubois, 20-2, and Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, 26-1-1. Both men had a lot to prove: Daniel that he could take the heat without quitting while Miller has a bad history of po

sitive doping tests. Dubois, the better boxer, tried to box from the outside while the 333 lb. Miller tried to crowd his opponent. It made for a messy but exciting fight where Dubois had to come through several tough moments until Miller tired and Dubois took over. By the ninth it was obvious that the fight was lost but “Big Baby” kept coming and took a bad beating before it was stopped with only eight seconds remaining of the fight.

 

EBU heavy champ Agit Kabayel, 26-2, showed his true colors as he upset Canada-based Russian Arslanbek Makhmudov, 18-1) and won on a fourth round TKO. Makhmudov was fast out of the gate but Kabayel, showing fast hands, traded with him and got the better of the exchanges. It did not seem as if he could hurt his much bigger opponent but that changed when he went for the body. Makhumdov, for all his size and hype, could not handle the mixed attack to the head and body and was wobbled by a right uppercut in the third and in the fourth he caved in after a left hook to body. He did his best to fight back, leaning backwards against the ropes but was hurt again and again – and after three knockdowns it was stopped.  Kabayel added the NABF and WBA I-C titles to his collection and took a big step up in class with this win after some tough years waiting for fights to materialize.

 

Former IBF cruiser king Jai Opetaia, 24-0, knocked out overmatched Englishman Elias Zorro, 17-1, with a booming overhand southpaw left 2:56 into the first round. The count was waved as Zorro was out of it.

 

Heavyweight Filip Hrgpvic, 17-0) stopped Mark De Mori, 41-3-2, 1:46 into the first round of a bad mismatch. De Mori’s record is very much pumped up. Hrgovic is now likely to face Joshua for the vacant IBF title and we say good luck – but there is a difference between fighting the likes of De Mori and Anthony Joshua.

 

In the show opener Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez, 24-0, took his time to wear down big Junior Fa, 20-3, from New Zealand and for five rounds there was not much happening. But in the sixth Sanchez saw his moment and floored Fa with a right. Fa was hurt but managed to get through the round. Sanchez had found the range and floored Fa twice more in the seventh and it was stopped at 2:42. It was scheduled for ten.

 

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Brick City Fight Night LIVE on TrillerTV This Friday, December 29th at 7 PM ET

Story by Jacob Sites

DECEMBER 26, 2023–This Friday night, December 29th, a huge night of boxing, the first installment of the Brick City Fight Night series at Prudential Center will be streamed all over the world on TrillerTV (formerly FITE.TV).

The stream will begin at 7 PM ET.

THE FIGHT CARD CAN BE OFFERED HERE

Scheduled to appear in a ten-round bout will be Newark’s own Michael Anderson. Anderson (23-3-1, 17 KOs) has wins over Dashon Johnson (11-2-3), DeMarcus Rogers (14-3-1) and a third-round stoppage over Marklin Bailey. Anderson will take on Eudy Bernardo (25-6, 18 KOs) of Elias Pina, Dominican Republic.

Seeing action in a ten-round bout will be former world title challenger and current WBA number-three ranked middleweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna taking on Nicolas Hernandez (27-7-3, 12 KOs) of Reading, PA.

LaManna (36-5-1, 15 KOs) of Millville, New Jersey will take part in a 10-round bout. The 31-year-old LaManna has quality wins over Kendal Mena (20-3), Matthew Strode (25-6), Michael Marcano (25-5-1) and his bout when LaManna stopped Juan Manuel Witt (33-1-2) in the third round to retain his WBA Fedelatin Middleweight crown on July 22 in Atlantic City.

Fighting in an eight-round bout will be popular Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga (14-1, 14 KOs) against Christopher Arnold (5-3 ,5 KOs) of Fredericksburg, VA.

Appearing in six-round bouts will be:

Joseph Adorno (18-3, 15 KOs) of Allentown, PA battling Barulio Rodriguez (20-8, 17 KOs) of the Dominican Republic in a super lightweight bout.

Mike Lee (10-2, 5 KOs) of Orange, NJ fighting Rickey Edwards (13-5, 3 KOs) of Paterson, NJ in a welterweight contest.

Paul Kroll (10-0-2, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia collides with Weah Archibald ((10-15, 5 KOs) of Mount Vernon, NY in a welterweight fight.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Dwyke Flemmings Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs) of Paterson, NJ squares off with Luis Briceno Roman (3-4, 3 KOs) of Houston in a junior middleweight bout.

Malik Nelson (4-0, 3 KOs) of Avenel, NJ fights Romel Tasanimp (2-1) of Baltimore in a Featherweight bout.

Anthony Johns (6-1, 5 KOs) of Newark, NJ takes on Anthony Camacho (2-9, 2 KOs) of Houston in a flyweight bout.

The card which will feature rising junior welterweight Vito Mielnicki Jr.(16-1, 11 KOs) taking on Salim Larbi (22-12-3, 8 KOs) of France in the 10-round main event from Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey will feature many top contenders and prospects.

The Mielnicki – Larbi fight will bout be part of the stream

Two fights that will take place being at 6 PM ET will see:

Kasir Goldston (5-0-1, 2 KOs) of Albany, NY will fight George Gethers (0-5) of Jersey City in a super lightweight tussle.

John Vallejo (4-0, 2 KOs) of New York will take on an opponent to be named in a junior middleweight affair.

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Story by Joseph Rinaldi

Frank Warren is the lead promoter of the upcoming ‘Day of Reckoning’ card, which takes place on Saturday.

The huge fight card taking place in Saudi Arabia event will feature many top heavyweights and several world champions.

In the main event, former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will square off against nominal contender Otto Wallin. The biggest and most exciting fight on the card will be the co-feature featurng former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder against former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker.

“The joint-main events have a lot of significance as far as boxing’s concerned in as much that Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are involved in quite tasty and tough fights and should they come through then they’re going to be in a position where I believe they’re going to be facing off next year,” Warren said to Sky Sports.

“That’s a massive, massive fight. A fight that a lot of people, certainly the fans talk about a lot. But to get there they’ve got to get through Saturday night in Riyadh. Get it out of the way on Saturday and all will be revealed but there’s a will to make this happen and I’m quite sure everybody’s going to be happy with the outcome provided these guys deliver. The most important thing for them, they’ve got to deliver.”

The biggest financial opportunity for Joshua is a crack at WBC world champion Tyson Fury.

However, Fury is already scheduled to take part in an undisputed showdown with WBO, IBF, WBA, IBO champion Oleksandr Usyk on February 17. There is also a two-way rematch clause – which indicates that a second meeting is very likely.

“Joshua, he had two opportunities to fight him [Fury], one last December and this year. Those fights didn’t happen for whatever reason and the situation is now that we are in a position where a number of big fights will be announced. It all depends what happens on Saturday.”

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FINALLY

Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will square off on February 17, 2024 in Saudi Arabia

Story by Alex and John Rinaldi

Finally, Oleksandr Usyk will fight Tyson fury for all the Heavyweight Titles on February 17 of next year. When you thought that Usyk would simply continue milking his heavyweight laurels until either hell freezes over or the Ukraine War eventually ends, low and behold he has finally agreed to fight Tyson Fury who is arguably the greatest heavyweight on the planet today.  

Thankfully the Ukraine heavyweight, who has been as active as an Egyptian Mummy, has now agreed to fight Fury for all the heavyweight marbles. Sadly, just like Klitschkos before him, he has been doing a good job of destroying the luster of the heavyweight division.

In the press conference to confirm the date, Fury said of Usyk: “I’m going to bust him up. Sausage. Ugly little man. Rabbit. Run rabbit, run rabbit, run, run, run. You know what’s coming? You’re getting smashed to pieces, sausage. You’re fighting the best British heavyweight there’s ever been.”

“You’ve beaten the rest of them, but you haven’t beaten Tyson Fury, sausage. You can never beat me. If you beat me in your dreams you better wake up and apologize. I stole that from Muhammad Ali, I apologize.”

“When you sleep at night ugly man you’re going to think of me for the next eight weeks. I’m going to punch your face in. You ugly little man.”

In recent months, it has taken Saudi Arabia’s investment and the timely intervention of Turki Al-Shikh, a genuine boxing aficionado and the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, to get the mega-events over the line.

In the same week that the Fury-Usyk fight was confirmed, Saudi Arabia confirmed another blockbuster event, featuring Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder on the same card, despite their rival promoters – albeit those two heavyweights are not fighting each other.

More to come on this.

Boxing is set to explode and capture the interests of all sports fans throughout the world.

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Former World Title Challenger Bandon Adams Ready For Big 2024

Former Middleweight Title Challenger Seeks Winner of Bohachuk – Fundora Interim Title Showdown

Story by Alexander R. Rinaldi

LOS ANGELES (January 3, 2024)–Brandon Adams is primed and ready for a big year when the calendar turns to 2024.

Adams of Los Angeles is now eager to get back in the ring after his eighth round stoppage over then perfect Serhii Bohachuk on March 4, 2021.

Bohachuk is now in line for a WBC Interim title bout with Sebastian Fundora, and Adams would like to get