INDIO, CALIF. (July 3) – Unbeaten Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez is considered to be the most dangerous prospect in the junior welterweight division and on Friday, July 25, he will face his toughest challenge yet when he meets Florida’s Vernon Paris in the 10-round main event of FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes’ Golden Boy Live! at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The co-main event is expected to be just as heated when rising bantamweight star Ivan Morales is featured in a 10-round battle against an opponent to be determined.

As a special treat for fans in attendance, the legendary Erik “El Terrible” Morales won’t just be at Fantasy Springs to cheer on his brother Ivan, the Mexican great will also meet and greet fans throughout the evening, making this a fight night that aficionados won’t want to miss.

“We are so proud of the success of the Golden Boy Live! series to date and July 25th will be no exception,” said Oscar De La Hoya, president and founder of Golden Boy Promotions. “We are thrilled to provide a national television platform for rising stars such as Frankie Gomez and Vernon Paris to continue their mark on the sweet science.”

Gomez vs. Paris, a 10-round junior welterweight bout, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona, O’Reilly Auto Parts and Golden Ram. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets, priced at $45, $35 and $25, will go on sale Friday, July 4 at 10:00 a.m. PT and will be available for purchase at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

After a stellar amateur career, East Los Angeles’ Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (17-0, 13 KOs) has made a steady rise in the ranks of the 140-pound weight class since turning professional in 2010. At just 22 years of age, sweet science insiders already expect him to make his move into the title picture within the next 12 months. To do that, he has to follow up his last four victories over Pavel Miranda (KO1), Lanard Lane (W10), Prince Doku Jr. (TKO1) and Orlando Vazquez (KO2) with another impressive showing against Paris, his toughest test to date on July 25.

A native of the boxing-rich city of Detroit, 26-year-old Vernon Paris (28-1, 16 KOs) has one thing on his mind heading into his July 25 bout with Frankie Gomez – handing the Californian his first professional defeat. And if anyone has the talent and desire to do it, it’s Paris, a former USBA champion whose only loss came against multi-division former World Champion Zab Judah in 2012. Since then, Paris has won two fights straight and he’s looking for three at Fantasy Springs.

Twenty-two-year-old Tijuana native Ivan “Nino Maravilla” Morales (25-0, 14 KOs) is a top Mexican prospect that hopes to add to his nation’s rich boxing history by becoming a world champion in the coming years. While he’s still young, his efforts thus far have shown him to be a mature fighter with a seemingly endless list of positive attributes. Coming off of a 10-round win over 40-fight veteran Jose Alfredo Tirado in April, Morales heads to Southern California later this month for his third fight in the United States against an opponent to be determined.

A full undercard will be announced shortly.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1, www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @FOXSports1 @FOXDeportesand follow the conversation using #GoldenBoyLive, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing. For more information on FOX Sports 1 visit www.FOXSports.com/watch/FOXSports1 and become a follower on @FOXSports.

LONDON (3 July) – BoxNation’s stacked summer schedule is set to get even hotter this July with heavyweight hitters Tyson Fury and Dereck Chisora’s world title eliminator headlining a sizzling set of fights, live and exclusive on ‘The Channel of Champions’.

The mammoth showdown between two of the world’s best heavyweights, taking place at the Phones4U Arena in Manchester on July 26th, will see the victor go on to challenge the reigning WBA Super, IBF and WBO world champion Wladimir Klitschko next up.

First, however, they must cross paths once again, with Chisora looking to avenge his 2011 points loss to Fury, as both men put their careers on the line in their bid for world title glory.

BoxNation will be bringing viewers unprecedented access ahead of their mouth-watering meeting, with the channel set to air – ‘Before the Bell: Chisora v Fury’ – a fly on the wall documentary series, starting this coming Monday at 7.30pm, delving into the lives of both fighters as they gear up for the biggest bout of their careers.

Episode two airs on Monday 14th July at 7.30pm, with the final show on Monday 21st July at 7.30pm.

The world’s best boxing channel will get their enthralling July schedule off to a bang this weekend, though, with further heavyweight action when Uzbekistan’s Ruslan Chageav challenges hard-hitter Fres Oquendo for the vacant WBA title.

The following week on July 12th, one of boxing’s very best, Canelo Alvarez, is back in action when he takes on the slick and slippery Cuban Erislandy Lara in a matchup that continues to divide opinion amongst fight aficionados.

Mexican superstar, Alvarez, will be looking to continue his route back to the very top, following his loss to Floyd Mayweather last September.

He has already shown that he is ready to challenge the best around again after his convincing victory over Alfredo Angulo earlier this year, but, Lara is a different prospect altogether, having racked up 19 wins in 22 fights and with world title ambitions of his own.

The card at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas will also witness the revitalised Juan Manuel Lopez up against Francisco Vargas following his stunning win over Daniel Ponce De Leon in March, with the man who ran Danny Garcia extremely close – Mauricio Herrera – returning against Johan Perez.

There is domestic action on July 16th when talented super-middleweight prospect Frank Buglioni looks to bounce back in style following his shock defeat to Sergey Khomitsky.

The power puncher, known as ‘The Wise Guy’, goes up against Sam Couzens at the York Hall, with 21-year-old super-featherweight ace Mitchell Smith battling Peter Cope, and highly-touted welterweight Bradley Skeete taking on Steven Pearce.

BoxNation then returns back to Macao, China when the supremely gifted Guillermo Rigondeaux puts his WBA Super and WBO super-bantamweight world titles on the line against the experienced Sod Kokietgym on July 19th.

The end of BoxNation’s packed July schedule, with back-to-back fights each weekend, featuring the very best boxing action from around the world, culminates in the mega-clash between Fury and Chisora as they ‘fight for the right’.

To subscribe to BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD & Virgin 546) an unmissable July for only £12 a month, please visit www.boxnation.com.

-Ends-

About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £12* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Diaz and Mayweather vs Alvarez.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Virgin (Ch.546), online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android. BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

Popular Chicago native and Notre Dame graduate Mike Lee’s opponent has been announced for his Friday, July 25, 2014, ring return to the Windy City’s UIC Pavilion.

Scheduled to open the night’s worldwide, live broadcast of ESPN Friday Night Fights in a light heavyweight six-rounder, Lee (12-0, 7 KOs) will face Paul Gonsalves (7-3, 3 KOs) of Hyannis, Massachusetts.

Presented by Warriors Boxing, 8 Count Productions, Seconds Out Promotions and Marines Promotions, the night of world-class professional boxing, entitled “Conquerors”, will also feature rejuvenated welterweight contender Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia (35-3, 23 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas, taking on hard-hitting and dangerous Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (27-5, 20 KOs) of Miami, via Barranquilla, Colombia in the night’s 10-round main event; as well as a 10-round middleweight co-feature between USBA Middleweight Champion and WBA #15, IBF #13, and WBO #11-rated Caleb “Golden” Truax (23-1-2, 14 KOs) of Osseo, Minnesota, and Sonora, Mexico’s Rogelio “Porky” Medina (32-6, 26 KOs).

32-year-old Gonsalves has won three straight fights, and five of his last six. A quick combination puncher with good strength, Gonsalves should be a decent test for Lee and give the huge crowd of Lee-supporting “Domers” something to cheer about.

Lee graduated at the top of his class with a Finance degree from The University of Notre Dame, and is also a Subway spokesperson and philanthropist. This fight will be his first in Chicago since his pro debut in 2010.

Tickets for “Conquerors” are priced at VIP $151, VIP Ringside $101, Mezzanine $51 and General Admission $31 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices: 312-622-7668 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office: 312-413-5740.More information will be available shortly at 8CountProductions.com.

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About Warriors Boxing

Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy-bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

With a series of successful Pay-Per-View shows and packed houses to its credit, the Warriors business model is working wonders in a sport that was sorely in need of the innovation and energy that the company brings to the table.

When it comes down to it though, a promotional company is only as good as the fighters and fights it promotes. Warriors Boxing has delivered on all fronts, with outstanding bouts such as Lara-Molina, Cayo-Peterson, Abraham-Miranda I and II, Miranda-Pavlik, Miranda-Green, Ibragimov-Briggs, Ibragimov-Klitschko, Urango-Hatton, Urango-Bailey, Cayo-Maidana and Ibragimov-Holyfield.

For more information on Warriors Boxing, visit their website at www.WarriorsBoxing.com.

About 8 Count Productions

Founded in 1997 by Dominic Pesoli, 8 Count Productions is the Home Of The Best In Chicago Boxing. 8 Count Productions has consistently presented the highest-quality professional boxing events in greater Chicago and is the home of top-10, world-rated light heavyweight Andrzej Fonfara.

For more information on 8 Count Productions, please visit 8CountProductions.com, Facebook.com/8CountWarriors,
Twitter.com/8CountBoxing and Instagram.com/8CountBoxing.

About Seconds Out Promotions

When retired professional boxer Tony Grygelko found himself unable to stay out of the gym, he realized that his passion for the sport was something he couldn’t deny. At age 29, Grygelko formed Seconds Out Promotions.

By utilizing the vast boxing knowledge of world-class trainer Ron Lyke, Grygelko and Seconds Out Promotions found instant success.

Through determination, integrity and hard work, Seconds Out Promotions strives to become a leading fight promotional company in the world, by giving young fighters the ability to showcase their talents to a worldwide audience, along with offering our fans the highest quality programming available.

Seconds Out Promotions was created to bring the very best fights to all fans and participants worldwide. Seconds Out Promotions is committed to the recruitment and development of the best and brightest young fighters to help achieve our mission. Seconds Out Promotions continues to expand its web and television presence, and is establishing itself as one of the fastest-rising fight promotions in the world.

For more information on Seconds Out Promotions, visit their website at: www.SoBoxing.comor their Twitter: @soboxing.

DANNY GARCIA, Unified Super Lightweight World Champion

“Come August 9th it’s going to be another great performance by me. I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove. I’ve got to show the world why I’m the unified super lightweight champion of the world.

“I’m already training hard in the gym every day and running the hills. If the fight was next week I’d be ready, I’ve just got to lose a few more pounds.

“I can’t wait until August 9th. Its going to be a stacked card, and August 9th is going to be my night.”

“Danny Garcia has a lot to prove. August 9th, I have to go in there and show him [Rod Salka] that I’m the best fighter in the world.

“August 9th is going to be a classy performance, but ugly for my opponent.”

ANGEL GARCIA, Danny Garcia’s Father & Trainer

“Danny is training hard right now, there’s a great camp going on. He’s going to come in, destroy and conquer.

“Salka can try to come in. He can work hard, but don’t look at the Herrera tape because you’ll get confused. Danny Garcia is a chameleon.

“Just because Danny had an awkward night doesn’t mean it’s going to happen again. He’s going to come in to destroy and conquer.”

ROD SALKA, Super Lightweight Contender

“I’m coming to work. I’ve been working really hard, and my whole boxing career I’ve worked to put myself in position to fight for a championship or a title.

“In this country, thank God, if you’re willing to work hard and bust your butt then the opportunities will present themselves. Opportunities always look a lot like hard work in my opinion.

“So I plan on busting my ass, working hard in the gym. I’m living there now, and I’m going back there tonight. We’re going to give Danny Garcia all that he can handle on August 9th.”

LAMONT PETERSON, IBF Junior Welterweight World Champion

“I just want to say that I’m happy to be fighting in New York. It’s my first time fighting here, so I’m excited. I’m training hard, and we’re going to put on a good fight.

“I’m expecting for him to have a big crowd since this is his hometown. But I’m pretty sure D.C. is going to show up and show out that night. I’m just looking forward to the fight and you all should expect a good one.

“This is my first time fighting in New York City and just knowing that all the greats fought here and it’s a big honor for me and go in and maybe give half of what those old guys used to do.

“I know he [Edgar Santana] will come in prepared. I know Edgar Santana can fight. He can hold his ground against anyone.”

EDGAR SANTANA, Junior Welterweight Contender

“First of all, I’d like to thank Lamont for giving me the chance to fight for the world title. I’m grateful to be here. If you follow my career, you know I’ve had some fallbacks. I’ve been chewed up, swallowed and spit back out by the streets, but I’m here.

“I’m very happy and they say that I’m an underdog, but I’m definitely not training like an underdog. I’m training like I’m a champion.

DANIEL JACOBS, Middleweight Contender

“Finally, the “Miracle Man” has come back to Barclays Center! It feels great to be back in my hometown where I was born and raised and to have an opportunity to fight for a world championship here.

“It’s just mind blowing, the opportunity of a lifetime, and I look forward to taking full advantage of the opportunity.

“I want to thank my opponent for accepting this fight because he’s coming from Australia to Brooklyn to fight in my back yard. It says a lot about that fighter and the man that he is, and I applaud that.

“I remember being on my death bed, and I found our in the newspaper that the Barclays Center was opening and that they were going to have fights here. And me not knowing if I would ever be able to box again, let alone perform here…to be standing here in front of you guys and say that I’m fighting for the WBA championship of the world is awesome!

“I also want to say that I represent more than just the sport of boxing. I’m a true gentleman of the sport, and it takes guys like myself, Oscar and other guys who represent the sport well to continue to take this sport to another level.

“I just want to say thank you guys for all of your support that you’ve given me. It will definitely be the start of something epic. I appreciate you guys and God bless you all.

“This means the world to me, to have the opportunity to fight for a world championship and to win it in my backyard with my fans and my family here. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime.”

“I’m training like a champion and come August 9th I will be a champion.”

GREG COHEN, Jarrod Fletcher’s Manager

“SHOWTIME has an unbelievable commitment to airing incredible boxing and the August 9show is no different and we’re very happy to be a part of it.

“I’ve been lucky enough to come to quite a few events at Barclays Center and I’m excited to be a part of this event.

“I’d like to thank Golden Boy, dealing with Eric Gomez to make this fight could not have been better and making this fight could not have gone smoother.

“Daniel Jacobs is a great sportsman and a terrific guy, unfortunately I happen to be representing the guy going against him.

“You probably don’t know Jarrod Fletcher, he’s a kid from Australia who had a very similar upbringing in amateur boxing to Oscar De La Hoya. He’s a two-time Olympian, he beat current superstars Adonis Stevenson and James DeGale.

“I could stand here for an hour and talk about his credentials. He could not be happier about this opportunity to fight in New York in Daniel Jacobs’ hometown, but that’s what you have to do if you want to be a champion.

“I’m looking forward to August 9and as Oscar said, the real winners are going to be the fans.

SADAM ALI, Undefeated Welterweight Prospect

“I’m very excited about the card. We have a lot of great fighters. I want to thank Golden Boy, SHOWTIME and Barclays Center for making the fight in my hometown.

“I’m excited, I’ve been working very hard and I’m ready for the elite level.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, President & Founder of Golden Boy Promotions

“It is a pleasure to be back at the Barclays Center where we have seen that boxing is alive and thriving in Brooklyn. August 9th we have three world title fights with three of the most talented and beloved fighters today.

“Danny Garcia has beaten some of the biggest and best names in boxing and plans to remain unbeaten on August 9.

“Most fighters say they come from the streets, for Lamont Peterson it is the literal sense. Him and his brother were left homeless on the streets of DC at the age of 10. Now Lamont has climbed all the way to becoming a world champion.

“For Daniel Jacobs this fight will have significance few could ever dream of. Danny has had a battle for life itself with cancer in order to get here.

“All three of these world champions will be put to the test August 9th as they face the most dangerous opponents in boxing…the underdogs.

“Rod Salka, Edgar Santana and Jarrod Fletcher, each of these fighters will have the chance to showcase their heart and desire and to prove the doubters wrong.

“All we need to do is look at recent Golden Boy boxing history. We know that some of the best fights of the past year starred underdogs in the fight of their lives.

“In boxing you are dealing with the theater of the unexpected. At Golden Boy we are focused on giving the fans exciting matchups that wont disappoint.

“Not too long ago, every one of these world champions Garcia, Peterson and Jacobs were in make or break fights where they were the underdogs. They know what it’s like to go into a fight and pull off an upset.

“In boxing, it’s the punch you don’t see that will knock you out and it’s the opponent you don’t expect that will beat you.

“Every fighter who makes it to that squared circle is a superstar. I remember when I fought Felix Sturm and everyone said it would be a walk in the park. And we all know what happened. It was a very difficult fight.

“Believe me when I tell you from personal experience. On Saturday August 9th these fighters will be ready to lay it all on the line. I already know who the winner will be, the fans.

“Don’t wait until the last minute, get your tickets now for what will be another great card at Barclays Center.”

CHRIS DEBLASIO, Executive Vice President of Sports Communication for SHOWTIME

“August 9th we are going to feature live on SHOWTIME three world championship fights including three young dynamic and great American stars of the sport today.

“These three fighters, Daniel Jacobs, Danny Garcia and Lamont Peterson have been a part of an incredible run on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING events over the last two and a half years, helped us bring about the best fights we can deliver to our audience and helped us see record ratings increases across the board over those last two and a half years.

“These guys [Rod Salka, Edgar Santana and Jarrod Fletcher] are hungry, they’re on the cusp of winning their first world championship fights and we expect that they will come on August 9th and deliver to the standard that we’ve set on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING with some of the amazing fights that we’ve had just this year alone.

“I don’t think anyone gave Mauricio Herrera enough credit and a big chance to give Danny Garcia a challenge back in March; we saw what happened there. I don’t think Yoshihiro Kamegai got a lot of credit when he was coming into this fight with Robert Guerrero, knowing John Molina, Jr. get Lucas Matthysse, this list goes on and on, Andrzej Fonfara against Stevenson, we saw an incredible fight there and an incredible challenge.

“August 9th we expect there to be fireworks in the ring, we expect some of these opponents to come in and bring their all for an opportunity of a lifetime and for our stars of the sport to match that challenge.”

SEAN SADDEH, VP of Programming at Barclays Center

“We look forward to another great night of Golden Boy boxing. It’s exciting to bring Danny Garcia back to Barclays Center, where his last two fights have brought the crowd to its feet.

“We’re also excited to bring back Brooklyn’s own, Daniel Jacobs for his third fight in our arena. Daniel has served as an inspiration to the up and coming fighters in this borough and I know he will have a lot of fans cheering for him August 9.

“I’d also like to welcome back our Brooklynites Sadam Ali and Zachary Ochoa each of whom are fighting at Barclays Center for the third time.

“For the rest of the fighters, welcome to Brooklyn, we hope you enjoy fighting at Barclays Center. This is our eighth fight with Golden Boy at Barclays Center and we want to thank the entire team there.

“We are looking forward to seeing all of you next month at Barclays Center and for many future fights.”

# # #

Garcia vs. Salka is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and is sponsored by Corona and AT&T. Tickets priced at $250, $125, $75, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes and service charges go on sale Friday, June 27 at noon ET and are available at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, by calling 800-745-3000 and at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

READING, PA (JULY 2, 2014)–This past Saturday night at the Santander Arena, Super Featherweight Frank De Alba scored a 5th round stoppage over tough Mexican Pablo Patres for the UBF All America title that highlighted an 6 professional, 11 amateur bout card.

The show was promoted by King’s Boxing and XFE.

De Alba dominated the bout by using his height and boxing ability. Batres tried to get inside but was never able to sustain much of a rhythm.

In round five, De Alba landed a hard hook to the body that sent Batres to the canvas. Batres complained of a low blow but was not able to beat referee Gary Rosado’s count at the 1:54 mark of round five.

Batres continued to complain about the punch. Fans can be the judge when the fight is replayed on Comcast Sportsnet in the next couple weeks. (check your local listings.)

De Alba of reading, PA is now 13-1-2 with five knockouts. Batres of Nogales, Mexico is 7-10-1.

In the co-feature, Danny Lugo scored a mild upset by scoring a 4-round majority decision over Pat Kehoe in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Lugo outboxed the hard charging Kehoe and won by scores of 40-36, 39-37 and 38-38.

Lugo of Harrisburg, PA is now 3-7. Kehoe of Reading is 1-1.

Good looking Lightweight prospect Rolando Chinea scored three knockdowns en route to a 2nd round stoppage over Robert Ramos in a scheduled four round bout.

Chinea scored two knockdowns in round one and one more in round two and the fight was stopped at 2:04.

Chinea of Lancaster is now 8-0-1 with 5 knockouts. Ramos of Allentown, PA is 1-3-1.

Alex Sanchez of Camden, New Jersey boxed his way to a four round unanimous decision over Miguel Martinez in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Sanchez who is now 4-4. Martinez of Reading, PA is 1-1.

Christian Molina dropped Jordan Morales twice in round one which led to a stoppage victory in the same round of their scheduled 4-round Jr. Welterweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 2:42 for Molina of Allentown, PA and is now 2-0 with 1 knockout. Morales was making his pro debut.

Antonio DuBose scored a 4-round unanimous decision over Benjamin Burgos in a Featherweight bout.

DuBose of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 to raise his perfect mark to 6-0. Burgos of Mount Pocono, PA is 1-8-1.

Michael Farenas earned a Super Featherweight title shot with an impressive 8th round stoppage over previously undefeated Mark Davis at the Foxwoods Resort in Connecticut.

Farenas came firing with the left hand from his southpaw stance He landed several hard left’s that caused a cut over Davis right eye in the first frame. Davis had a better 2nd round until he was caught with a hard left just before the bell. After a back and forth round three, Davis came out in round four by landing quick combinations. In round five, Farenas landed a flush left that wobbled Davis all over the ring just before the end of the frame. It was more of the same in round six as Farenas continued to land hard shots on Davis.

In round eight, a series of hard blows rocked Davis into the corner and referee Steve Smoger stopped the bout at 59 seconds of round eight.

Faranes, 130 lbs of the Philippines is now 39-4-4 with 31 knockouts. Davis, 130 lbs of Cleveland, OH is now 18-1.

Former world champion Billy Dib scored a 10-round unanimous decision over Alberto Garza in a Jr. Lightweight bout.

Dib was cut over the right eye in round one from a headbutt. Dib landed a some nice shots over the first few rounds. Although not looking pretty, Garza started getting in some counter shots. Dib came back to finsih strong in the final round as he landed some solid left hands behind a stiff jab.

Dib, 131 lbs of Sydney, Australia eon by scores of 98-91 and 96-93 twice and is now 37-3. Garza, 131 lbs of Mexico City is now 26-8-1.

Ryan Martin scored a 4-round unanimous decision over Matthew Baca in a Lightweight bout.

Martin dominated the fight for three rounds with pure boxing. In round four, Martin unleashed a few thudding power shots and and won by scores of 40-36 on all cards.

Martin, 135 lbs of Chattanooga, TN is now 7-0. Baca, 135 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is now 4-2-1.

Earlier tonight, two of the brightest young stars on the DiBella Entertainment roster, Junior “Sugar Boy” Younan and Louis “Cruise Control” Cruz, stayed unbeaten, winning dominant unanimous decisions in separate bouts to open up 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions card at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT.

The 18-year-old phenom Younan was taken the distance for the first time in his young career, scoring a shutout over tough-as-nails Azamat Umarzoda. The super middleweight Younan got in some much-needed rounds, having previously scored four consecutive first-round knockouts in two minutes or less. The “boxing prodigy”, as Younan was referred to in a NY Times article written on him when he was just 10 years old, showed the total package, displaying lightning quick hands and combination punching to both the body and head, as well as amazing footwork and defensive movement. It was an impressive showing for the Brooklyn-native, who improved to a perfect 5-0, 4KO’s, with the four-round unanimous decision. Younan will be back in action on an upcoming DiBella Entertainment Broadway Boxing card this summer in NYC.

The Bronx-native Cruz lived up to his nickname cruising to a six-round unanimous decision over Ryan Picou in their super lightweight matchup. Cruz displayed a piston-like jab that kept Picou off balance for much of the fight. Cruz pressed the action throughout and was the much busier of the two, as Picou was content to stay on the outside, looking to score with single shots. In the end, all three judges scored the bout in Cruz’s favor, with scorecards of 59-55 twice, and 58-56. With the win, Cruz improved to a perfect 8-0, 4KO’s, and, like Younan, will be featured on an upcoming DiBella Entertainment Broadway Boxing card this summer in NYC.

Two of CES Boxing’s most prized prospects from Connecticut kept their unbeaten records intact Wednesday on the undercard of SMS Promotions’ special edition ESPN Friday Night Fights card at Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Female super bantamweight Shelito Vincent of New London improved her record to 12-0 with a majority decision win over Nydia Feliciano (7-6-3) of the Bronx while New Haven welterweight Jimmy Williams upped his record to 7-0-1 and won for the second time in five weeks by beating fellow Bronx native Stephen Owusu (8-6, 4 KOs) by unanimous decision.

Similar to their first go-round in January of 2013, Vincent and Feliciano traded blows over six hard rounds with Vincent earning the narrow victory by scores of 59-55, 58-56, 57-57. The first meeting between the two ended with a unanimous decision win for Vincent, 59-55 and 58-56 on the other two scorecards.

Williams continued his impressive run in a six-round bout against the battle-tested Owusu, dropping his opponent in the second round en route to a 59-54, 60-53, 57-56. Williams is now unbeaten in his last three fights since a draw against Greg Jackson in 2013. The streak includes a first-round knockout win over fellow Connecticut fighter Christian Lao in May.

While Williams and Vincent held true to form, the televised portion of last night’s card featured a thrilling upset in the main event. Southpaw Michael Farenas stopped previously unbeaten Mark Davis in the eighth round of their scheduled 12-round International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior lightweight title eliminator.

Junior lightweight Billy Dib outworked former world champion Alberto Galarza in a 96-93, 96-93, 98-91 unanimous decision win and Cranston, R.I., welterweight Nick DeLomba upset New Haven’s Edwin Soto, winning a 58-56, 59-55, 57-57 majority decision, handing Soto only his second loss in 13 fights.

CES Boxing returns Sept. 12, 2014 at Twin River Casino in Lincoln, R.I. For ticket information, or for more information on Vincent and Williams’ next bouts, visit www.cesboxing.com, follow CES Boxing on Twitter at @CESBOXING and Instagram at CESBOXING, or “like” CES Boxing on Facebook by clicking the corresponding link.

Las Vegas, Nevada – For the first time ever, the UFC’s digital streaming service UFC® FIGHT PASS™ will broadcast UFC’s Ultimate Media Day live from Las Vegas ahead of the star-studded weekend of fights at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. Hosted by Karyn Bryant, with UFC analysts Daniel Cormier and Dominick Cruz, the exclusive coverage begins tomorrow at 9 a.m. PT. Click HERE for the link to the broadcast (subscription required).

In hour one, the entire cast of The Ultimate Fighter® season 20 will be made available to the media just days after arriving into Las Vegas to begin filming. This season’s coaches, UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis and No. 2 contender Gilbert Melendez, will also participate.

In hour two, the stars of UFC 175 and THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER® FINALE: TEAM EDGAR vs. TEAM PENN will be on hand to take questions from media.

The exclusive broadcast of Ultimate Media Day on UFCFIGHTPASS.com will also feature live interviews with Pettis, Melendez, UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman, and UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, as well as a variety of other UFC competitors.

The event will close with UFC President Dana White’s scrum with media in attendance.

For more information on UFC 175 and THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER® FINALE: TEAM EDGAR vs. TEAM PENN, visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

About the Ultimate Fighting Championship®
Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Beijing, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries to 800+ million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS™, a digital subscription service with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT™ (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, Octagon™ branded apparel, best-selling DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit www.UFC.com and follow UFC at www.Facebook.com/UFC and on Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

SAN DIEGO (July 2, 2014) – Five days before he heads to Las Vegas, popular Mexican superstar and former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion
Canelo Alvarez participated in a media workout Tuesday before dozens of TV cameras, print and internet reporters, bloggers and boxing videographers at the
House of Boxing Training Center.

“I’ve had a great training camp here in San Diego and I’m ready to go,” said Canelo (43-1-1, 31 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, who faces former Cuban national amateur standout and current WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (19-1-2, 12 KOs)in the 12-round main event of “HONOR & GLORY: Canelo vs. Lara,” a highly anticipated four-fight SHOWTIME PPV telecast
Saturday, July 12, from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

“Every camp is different because we’re always training for a different opponent. And, as always, I’ve worked very hard in this one. But Lara has said so many things behind my back and on social media for such a long time now that, yes, this fight is and has become personal.

“He’s a good fighter but he talks a lot. He’s offended me. I’m going to have an answer for everything he has said. I’m going to shut him up once and for all.”

Tuesday, Canelo spent more than two hours at the House of Boxing. He worked up a heavy sweat during a spirited, 75-minute-plus workout that consisted of jumping rope, shadow-boxing, smacking the heavy bag, hitting the double-ended bag and working the speed bag. Before and after, he did interviews, signed autographs, posed for photos and mingled with his many fans.

Canelo Continued…

(On whether winning is enough)

“I always want to win in spectacular fashion. That is my goal every time I step into the ring. I want to win spectacularly on July 12. But the most important thing is for me to win. I can’t promise a knockout but if it comes, it comes.”

(On why he’s not fighting for southpaw Lara’s 154-pound title)

“Titles are always nice, but for me this fight is bigger than a title fight. This fight is for my honor and glory to bring to the Mexican people. It is a fight for honor and it is a fight that people wanted to see. My fans are the best and I want to thank them for all of their support.”

(On pressure)

“There is no extra pressure on me for this fight. I’m as confident and relaxed as I always am. I’m prepared for whatever Lara has to offer. At this level you have to be able to adapt and make the necessary adjustments. I know I’m coming to fight and I know he’s coming to fight. After that, whatever happens, happens.”

(On Mexico’s performance in the World Cup)

“Even though they didn’t win, I thought they did a good job.”

(On future opponents, weight classes, etc.)

“My focus is solely on this fight. I can start thinking about future opponents after July 12. But I have no intentions of moving up to middleweight. I feel really comfortable fighting at 154 pounds and probably will stay in this weight class my whole career.”

Tickets are still available at the $750, $500, $250, $150, $75 and $50 price ranges, not including applicable service charges. Tickets are limited to eighteen (18) per person with a limit of eight (8) at the $75 and $50 price ranges. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Below is what Chepo and Eddie Reynoso, Canelo’s trainer and co-trainer, respectively, and Oscar De La Hoya, president and founder of Golden Boy Promotions, said Tuesday:

JOSE “CHEPO” REYNOSO, Canelo’s Trainer
“Canelo has a much different mindset going into this fight, his attitude is much better. His pride was hurt because of all of the smack Lara has been talking. He is totally focused on July 12, and wants to punish Lara thoroughly. Canelo looks at Lara as an obnoxious little child that needs to be put into his place.

“We train every day of the week except Sunday. He spars Monday, Wednesday and Friday. San Diego has been much more peaceful and tranquil compared to past training camp locations (Santa Monica, Big Bear). His gym is in the same place where he lives so everything is very convenient. The only time he leaves his house is in the morning when he goes on his run. Besides that he is very focused and able to train in the comforts of his own home.”

EDDIE REYNOSO, Canelo’s Co-Trainer
“After the last fight we only took 15 days off and then we went right back into training. We have had a great training camp that I believe will work in our favor.

“The biggest difference from this training camp compared to others is that the fighter we are opposing has completely different styles. One is a righty and one is a lefty, so we must train for our opponent specifically. One is more courageous and goes to the front and the other retracts and pushes back.

“Going into the Lara fight we have seen that Lara defends a lot and gives up his offensive moves. He is always on the defensive and we must attach him. Canelo has his combinations and strength that will work in his favor. Canelo just needs to win a decision; he doesn’t necessarily need a knockout to show the world what he is capable of. This is Canelo’s most important fight and all he is focusing on.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA
“It’s going to be a great fight, I don’t want to predict anything. Lara has been doing a lot of trash talking that has been fueling Canelo. I see him at an entirely different level and it’s exactly where he should be. He’s at a level of determination where he really wants to get this guy. It’s personal.

“Canelo is a young fighter who is improving at a rapid pace as every fight goes on. The fact that Lara has made this fight personal, it gives you extra motivation that you need to train harder, run faster and do everything almost perfect so that you can go into the ring and destroy your opponent.

“The fact this fight is personal, it is the first time that I have seen Canelo with that extra determination. He has looked perfect in training camp. He wants to destroy Lara. This is exactly where he needs to be. I can see it in his eyes, his focus says it all.

“The presence of social media has taken this fight to an entirely new level. When you have a fighter like Canelo who a lot of people follow, then social media is a key component to make sure that this PPV fight will be a guaranteed success. There is much anticipation leading up to the fight, I expect the MGM Grand Garden Arena to be completely sold out.

“Every fighter in the ring has a chance. With fighting, one punch can change the entire dynamic of a fight. I’m expecting a great fight from top to bottom, but obviously I’m with Canelo 100 percent.”

# # #

“Honor & Glory: Canelo vs. Lara,” a 12-round junior middleweight fight taking place Saturday, July12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Canelo

Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the co-main event, Abner Mares returns to the ring to face Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round featherweight bout. In the SHOWTIME PPV opening bout, Johan Perez defends his interim WBA Junior Welterweight World Title against Mauricio Herrera in a 12-round matchup. Also, Juan Manuel Lopez meets Francisco Vargas in a 10-round bout for the WBO International Super Featherweight Title. The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The event can be heard in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP). For information visit www.SHO.com/Sports. Canelo vs. Lara will be shown on the big screen in movie theaters across the country via Fathom Events. Information will be available at www.fathomevents.com.

IBF Bantamweight champion Paul Butler vacated his title to move down to Jr. Bantamweight according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“It’s a beautiful belt and it’s hard to relinquish it seeing as it’s the first world title that I’ve won, but I knew that it was always going to be the case if I won it I’d have to return it and go back down,” Butler said.

“When the opportunity came to fight Hall for the title I knew that it was a fight that I could win, and I grabbed the chance with both hands,” Butler said. “To become a world champion in only my 16th fight was an absolute dream come true. Obviously, there was a big size difference between me and Hall, but I said to everybody that I could overcome him with my speed and work-rate and that proved to be the case, but I’m a natural 115-pounder.

“Now I aim to win a world title at [junior bantamweight] and achieve another dream of becoming a two-weight world champion in reverse. Most of the British greats have gone up through the weights like Duke McKenzie, David Haye, Ricky Hatton, Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank to name a few. But only Bob Fitzsimmons has achieved the feat of dropping down a weight and that will be a big incentive for me.”

“Of course, another return to bantamweight isn’t out of the picture in the future,” he said. “I’m still only 25 and in the next couple of years I could fill out and mature some more and be more comfortable at that weight, but for now I’m focused on winning and unifying titles at [junior bantamweight].”

To fill the vacancy, the IBF said it will order Randy Caballero, who loomed as Butler’s mandatory challenger, to face an opponent to be determined. Caballero (21-0, 13 KOs), 23, of Coachella, California, traveled to Japan and knocked out Kohei Oba in the eighth round on April 4 in the elimination bout to become the mandatory challenger for the belt.

CES’ own Jimmy Williams and Shelito Vincent will star on the undercard of tonight’s special Wednesday edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., promoted by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s SMS Promotions and billed as 50 Cent’s 2nd Annual Birthday Bash.

The undefeated Vincent (11-0, 1 KO), a New London, Conn., native, will face Bronx super bantamweight Nydia Feliciano (7-5-3) in a rematch of their 2013 bout, which Vincent won by unanimous decision, while New Haven’s Williams (6-0-1, 3 KOs) faces another tough test against veteran welterweight Stephen Owusu (8-6, 4 KOs), also from the Bronx.

The televised portion of the card includes two junior lightweight bouts, starting with the 10-round co-feature between ESPN favorite Billy Dib and former world champion Alberto Galarza – Dibs’ first fight at 130 pounds – and concluding with the 12-round main event between unbeaten Mark Davis and southpaw Michael Farenas, an eliminator bout for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) world title.

Fresh off her win against Lakeysha Williams in May, Vincent hopes a change in her inner circle, along with a more important change in her workout regimen, will lead to another win over the always-dangerous Feliciano as she continues to press for a mega bout against fellow unbeaten bantamweight Heather Hardy.

Vincent endured her easiest weight cut yet while following a stricter, cleaner diet, relieving most of the pressures generally associated with fight week.

“I feel great,” said Vincent, who’s currently ranked No. 5 among super bantamweights in the World Boxing Council (WBC). “I changed up everything. My body looks amazing. This is the strongest I’ve ever been in my life. I didn’t have to do anything crazy to lose the weight. I feel strong.

“I just changed up my diet,” she continued. “[My coaches] gave me the food I was supposed to eat and told me when to eat it. I haven’t cheated at all. My arms look great, my waist is small. You can see my muscles popping. It’s crazy how much your diet plays into everything. I didn’t realize that until now.”

If Feliciano is expecting the same Vincent she faced in January of 2013, she might be in for a rude awakening. Feliciano has evolved, too. Ranked No. 16 among bantamweights in the WBC, Feliciano beat Elizabeth Sherman and Crystal Hoy following her loss to Vincent and then fought eight hard rounds against Hardy four months ago in Brooklyn. Hardy won by unanimous decision, 79-73 and 78-74 on two scorecards.

“I didn’t see the fight with Hardy, but I heard two different stories,” Vincent said. “On one hand, I heard [Feliciano] got tired and tapered out toward the end, and then I heard the fight was close.

“I don’t really care who [Feliciano] expects to see [tonight]. I busted my ass in the gym.”

The payoff for beating Feliciano could be the long-awaited showdown against Hardy, a potential battle of unbeatens hyped vigorously on social media, mostly by Vincent, who’s been scrambling to fight the undefeated Brooklyn native since 2012. Hardy faced her toughest test in June at the Barclays Center against Jackie Trivilino, a fight stopped after seven rounds due to a cut on Hardy’s scalp. Hardy won on the scorecards, 68-65, 67-66, 66-67.

“I’m definitely just focusing on this fight for now,” Vincent said of tonight’s rematch with Feliciano. “We all know Heather Hardy won’t take a fight with me anyway. That’s out there now. It’ll happen when it’s forced, so I guess I’ll just sit back and wait for that. I didn’t watch the fight [against Trivilino]. I was training. Everyone knows she’s all hype by now. Even she knows she’s all hype.”

Williams is making his own steady climb to the top after scoring his most impressive win in May. Fighting for state bragging rights against Meriden’s Christian Lao, Williams won by first-round knockout, stunning Lao with a left hook at the 1-minute, 57-second mark. This, coincidentally, is Williams’ third appearance on a nationally-televised card. His professional debut in 2013 aired on NBC Sports as a swing bout, while his second pro fight two months later against Raynard Younger aired on FNF, also as a swing bout.

There’s no guarantee he’ll get more TV time tonight. Either way, the 27-year-old Williams is clearly unfazed by the bright lights, as evident not only by his performance in his two televised bouts, but also by his quick win over Lao.

“That’s what a real champion, a real fighter, is supposed to do,” Williams said. “When an opportunity like that presents itself, you have to take advantage. I’ve been blessed.”

The 36-year-old Owusu has had some time off in between fights, returning to the ring in 2011 following an 11-year layoff and ending a shorter, three-year layoff tonight against Williams, but he’s still coming off back-to-back wins and has only been stopped twice in 14 bouts.

“He’s tough. Hungry. He’s from the Bronx, so I know he’ll come to fight,” Williams said. “I’m coming to fight, too.”

A former college football player at Southern Connecticut State, Williams is fighting for the second time in five weeks and has won back-to-back fights since the lone blemish on his record, a draw against Atlantic City’s Greg Jackson in August of 2013.

“I’m glad I’m staying active,” Williams said. “That’s what I train hard for, so I can fight back-to-back fights. I’m ready to just keep fighting and keep building my record. Remain humble and train hard. That’s what I continue to do.”

Tickets for tonight’s even start are priced at $45.00, $75.00 and $100.00 and are available online at www.foxwoods.com. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the first fight begins at 7:30.

Bronx, NY (July 1, 2014) Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing has announced an action packed co-feature for the ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS/ROCKIN FIGHTS 14″ event set for FRIDAY, JULY 18th at The Paramount in Huntington, New York as Long Island fan favorite CLETUS “The Hebrew Hammer” SELDIN faces tough veteran BAYAN “The Mongolian Mongoose” JARGAL in an eight round junior welterweight battle.

Advance tickets for ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS/”ROCKIN FIGHTS 14″ starting at $50, are on sale through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com), the Star Boxing website (StarBoxing.com) and The Paramount Box Office, phone (631) 673-7300. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bell at 7:00 p.m. The LIVE telecast will commence at 8:00 p.m.

“Seldin is undefeated and thrilled to be fighting for the first time on ESPN Friday Night Fights but Jargal is a very tough veteran and their styles will mesh well for an action packed fight”, said DeGuardia.

“This is Cletus’ ninth time fighting at The Paramount where he has performed in front of standing room only crowds each time therefore I would strongly encourage fans to purchase their tickets in advance.”

Known for his stunning knockout power in each hand the 27-year-old Seldin has become one of the most popular fighters in the New York City area while building an undefeated record of 13-0-0 with ten knockouts.

Most recently, Seldin thrilled the packed house at The Paramount on April 24th with a devastating seventh round stoppage of Wilfredo Acuna.

Sporting a battle tested record of 17-5-3 with 11KO’s; Mongolian born Jargal has faced numerous world champions and ranked contenders including Chris Algieri, Zahir Raheem, Breidis Prescott and Eric Aiken.

“Jargal gave (world champion) Algieri a very tough fight here at The Paramount in 2011, this is his first time back and I’m sure he’ll be well prepared and looking to upset Seldin” said DeGuardia.

ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS/”ROCKIN FIGHTS 14″ is headlined by a ten round junior welterweight battle between EMANUEL “The Tranzformer” TAYLOR of Baltimore, Maryland and San Francisco based KARIM “Hard Hitta” MAYFIELD.

As part of the sensational evening of world class professional boxing, Star Boxing will also pay tribute to “The Fighting Pride of Huntington”, new World Boxing Organization Junior Welterweight Champion CHRIS ALGIERI.

Additional undercard bouts for ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS/”ROCKIN FIGHTS 14″ will be announced shortly.

The Paramount is located at 370 New York Avenue in Huntington, New York, 11743.

ABOUT ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS
ESPN Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra will begin at 8 p.m. ET live on ESPN2,

Watch ESPN and broadband Spanish-language ESPN Deportes+.
ESPN Deportes will re-brand its coverage as Noche de Combates (formerly Viernes de Combates) with some telecasts on Saturdays.

ESPN2 Commentators/Studio:

Blow-by-blow commentator Joe Tessitore and ringside analyst Teddy Atlas will return to describe the action for ESPN2. Both are recipients of the prestigious Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism presented by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA): Atlas (2001), Tessitore (2010). Studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN), will return for his second season providing all the latest boxing news and highlights. Bilingual reporter Bernardo Osuna (@osunaespn), who last year became the series’ first-ever on-site reporter, will contribute to Friday Night Fights in English, and Noche de Combates (Fight Night) in Spanish.

ESPN Deportes Commentators/Studio:

Delvin Rodríguez will call the fights with Pablo Viruega for Noche de Combateson both ESPN Deportes and ESPN Deportes+, while Leopoldo González and Claudia Trejos will anchor the studio. Hall of Fame referee Joe Cortez will join Trejos and González in studio throughout the season, with Osuna providing reports and interviews.

ABOUT STAR BOXING ®
Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. The company has produced some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star Boxing continues to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star Boxing is proud that is has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

ABOUT THE PARAMOUNT:
Opened September 30, 2011 this 1,555-capacity live entertainment venue, located in downtown Huntington, Long Island, New York, features; concerts, comedy, boxing, community and other special events in a club/theater setting. With over 30,000 Facebook fans, The Paramount was recently ranked by Pollstar Magazine as the #24 highest attended club-venue worldwide (January-June 2013). A Ticketmaster venue, booked by Live Nation, TheParamount hosts nearly 200 events per year and in less than two years since its inception, has quickly established itself as the premier music venue onLong Island, NY. Some artists who have recently taken the Paramount stage include; Billy Joel, Pitbull, Don Henley, Willie Nelson, B.B. King, ZZ Top, Counting Crows, Primus, Matchbox 20, The Blues Brothers, Limp Bizkit, & many, many, more.

ABOUT THE FOX HOLLOW:
Nestled upon 8 private acres of Long Island’s north shore is the Fox Hollow, which features a state of the art event venue, fine dining restaurant and an all-suite luxury boutique hotel. Owned & operated by the Scotto Brothers, their Above & Beyond philosophy in providing each & every guest with superior services and amenities is paramount. Visit the Fox Hollow online atwww.TheFoxHollow.com & www.TheInnAtFoxHollow.com

ABOUT CAMELOT LIMOUSINE:
Official Sponsor of the Paramount Boxing Series, Camelot Limos is a family owned and operated business located in Nassau County, with over 25 years of professional experience; serving satisfied clientele since 1984. The owners of Camelot Specialty Limos are very active in the business and play a major role in the company’s day-to-day operations. Camelot Specialty Limos, Inc. is an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau. www.camelotlimo.com

ABOUT WBAB 102.3:
WBAB 102.3 is the home of Long Island’s Classic Rock anchored by their Long Island Rock ‘N’ Roll Morning Show with Roger and JP. For more information or to listen online, visit their website at
www.wbab.com and follow them on Facebook.com/1023wbab and on Twitter @1023wbab.

Miami, FL (July 2, 2014) With the most highly anticipated rematch in years taking place next week, legendary former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson gave his thoughts on the Thursday, July 10 International Boxing Federation (IBF) Super Featherweight showdown between his fighter, champion ARGENIS “La Tormenta” MENDEZ, 20-2-1 (11KO’s) and top rated challenger RANCES “Kid Blast” BARTHELEMY, 19-0-0 (12KO’s).

Presented by Iron Mike Productions, the Mendez-Barthelemy rematch headlines “JUDGMENT DAY” from the American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida and LIVE on FOX Sports 1.

The first bout which took place on January 3, 2014 in Minneapolis, Minnesota was initially and wrongly ruled a second round stoppage for Barthelemy. However, the decision was reversed and ruled a “No Decision” by the Minnesota State Boxing Commission as a video replay clearly showed Mendez being hit after the bell sounded to end the second round.

Head of Iron Mike Productions, Tyson spoke about his charge and the events of January 3rd.

“Argenis was definitely not himself that night. Styles make fights and Mendez was definitely caught off guard by Barthelemy’s height and length. He did not fight the way he usually does. We have been working with him for the last few months. His approach will be very different this time. He’s much better prepared for the height, reach and power of Barthelemy.”

“Argenis has normally faced fighters who come forward. Barthelemy didn’t and he forced Mendez to come to him and go first. If Mendez had let the fight develop and made Barthelemy come to him, there might have been a very different result. All I’m saying is Barthelemy didn’t become King Kong overnight and Argenis did not become a bum overnight. Like Sergio Martinez against Miguel Cotto, he got caught early and didn’t recover. Argenis will make the adjustments and we’re confident you will see a very different result.”

Since January 3rd, the controversy and fighting has continued outside the ring with Tyson and Iron Mike Productions winning every battle. First they won on appeal and got the decision changed to a no contest. Then they won another appeal for the purse to remain a 75-25 split for Mendez as directed by the IBF guidelines. Iron Mike then stepped in and won the purse bid $260,000. to $251.000, shocking the Barthelemy camp who had recently added the all-powerful, uber manager/advisor Al Haymon to their team.

Finally they won another appeal filed in May by the Barthelemy camp, which clearly prefers to do their fighting in the courts rather then in the ring. Now all Mendez has to do is follow his promoters lead and complete this interesting saga of the last seven months with a win between the ropes.

Continued Tyson, “Barthelemy is an awkward fighter and if Mendez can make the adjustments then he will successfully defend his title. This is going to be a great matchup and I am excited for our fans that will be watching it in person and watching it on Fox Sports 1. I am anxious to see how it turns out. What is nice about being Mike Tyson, the promoter, is that, no matter what, as long as the fans get excited and are entertained, then IMP has succeeded. Mendez winning will be icing on the cake. Don’t miss July 10th!”

Co-featured on the FOX Sports 1 telecast will be a 10-round light heavyweight clash between world ranked contender HUMBERTO “EL Don” SAVIGNE and former world champion JEFF “Left Hook” LACY.

Opening the FOX Sports 1 telecast will be the nationally televised debut of heralded and undefeated 18-year-old welterweight prospect ERICKSON “The Hammer” LUBIN clashing with Mexican veteran NOE “Platanito” BOLANOS in a scheduled eight round bout.

A sensational off-TV undercard for “JUDGMENT DAY” will be announced shortly.

For more information on “JUDGMENT DAY” please visit the website, www.IMPMIAMI.com. Advance tickets, starting at $49 may be purchased through www.Ticketmaster.com with V.I.P Ringside Table Packages also available.

The American Airlines Arena is located at 601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida, 33132. For more information, please visit their website at www.aaarena.com. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:30 p.m. with the first bell at 8:00 p.m.

For additional information on Iron Mike Productions visit www.IronMikeProductions, follow on Twitter at @IronMikeProd and on Facebook at IronMikeProductionsOfficial.

World Series of Fighting will make history this Saturday, and you can celebrate the occasion by bringing home a custom-made “OPERATOR” Ducati Monster 696 motorcycle.

Shout, the Utah-based leader in real-time fan engagement, will once again partner with World Series of Fighting and the promotion’s charity partner, the Green Beret Foundation, to offer up the popular “Champions Challenge” game.

During Saturday’s “World Series of Fighting 11: Gaethje vs. Newell” event, fans can download the Shout app and then play “Champions Challenge” to intellectually spar against each other during the live NBC broadcast by trying to predict, for instance, “Which fighter will land the most leg kicks? or “Which fighter will win?”

“We’re extremely excited about our first-ever NBC-broadcast event, but we’re equally happy about the opportunity we have to reward some of our fans,” World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo said. “Shout is a great way to follow along with our card, and whether you’re attending the event in Florida or watching on TV at home, you can win cash, prizes or even a beautiful, specially modified “OPERATOR” military version of a Ducati Monster 696.”

“World Series of Fighting 11: Gaethje vs. Newell” takes place Saturday, July 5, at Ocean Center in Daytona, Fla. The event’s four-fight main card, including undefeated lightweight champion Justin Gaethje (11-0) and inspirational contender Nick Newell (11-0), airs on NBC.

Shout is a real-time fan engagement application for smart phones and mobile devices. Players compete head-to-head for valuable prizes ranging from gift cards to iPads to motorcycles and cars.

Shout TV’s real-time challenges have engaged and entertained fans competing against each other during the Super Bowl, soccer, NFL, NBA and MLB games, as well as the Daytona 500, Oscars, Grammys and reality shows like “The Bachelor.”

Signing up and competing in the Shout fan competitions is free and fast. Shout can be downloaded by visiting the Apple, iPhone or Android stores (using search word “Shout”) or directly downloaded at http://www.shout2win.com.

About WSOF
World Series of Fighting is a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering an incredible, action-packed entertainment experience for fight fans by producing the best possible matchups between elite fighters from around the globe. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow World Series of Fighting on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo.

About NBC SPORTS GROUP
When the Comcast-NBCUniversal transaction was completed in January 2011, the sports assets of the two companies combined to form NBC Sports Group, which serves sports fans 24/7 with premier live events, insightful studio shows, and compelling original programming. The sports media company consists of a unique array of broadcast television, cable television, radio and digital sports assets, including NBC Sports, NBC Olympics, NBCSN (NBC Sports Network), Golf Channel, 12 NBC Sports Regional Networks, NBC Sports Radio and all of their respective digital properties. NBC Sports Group possesses an unparalleled collection of television rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the International Olympic Committee and United States Olympic Committee, the NFL, NHL, NASCAR, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, USGA, Churchill Downs, Premier League, MLS, World Series of Fighting, Tour de France, French Open, Formula One, IndyCar and many more.

About Ocean Center
The Ocean Center aims to be recognized as the premier convention
facility in the Southeast. The Ocean Center offers competitive rates and
excellent customer service and is conveniently located in east Central
Florida. A service of Volusia County Government, the Ocean Center can
accommodate meetings of 10 to 10,000 and offers more than 205,000 square
feet of interior exhibit, meeting and convention space. Learn more at
www.oceancenter.com.

Newark, NJ (July 2, 2014) – Welterweight up and comer Michael “Slick” Anderson of Newark returns to the ring Saturday, July 19 at the Parsippany Police Athletic League when he battles an opponent to be named in an eight round contest.

The card is promoted by All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions. Tickets starting at $40 are available by calling 862-766-0145. The opening bell is scheduled for 7 pm with doors opening an hour prior.

A former New Jersey Golden Gloves Champion, Anderson’s 13-2 with 10 wins by knockout. The President of the “Show Off Riders” Motorcycle Club, Anderson has sensational hand speed and is backed by a strong local following in the Garden State. Last November, Anderson, who spoke at multiple schools in Newark as part of the “Fight for Attendance” initiative, scored a spirited split decision against hard-hitting George Sosa.

In the chief supporting bout, popular unbeaten super middleweight John Magda puts his 8-0 record on the line in a six round contest. Magda, who is one of power broker Al Haymon’s newest signees, is fresh off a dramatic fourth round stoppage of Taneal Goyco on June 27. The East Rutherford, NJ native will face an opponent to be named.

Knockout artist Bobby Gunn Jr, popular cruiserweight Dave Valykeo, lightweight Sonny Frederickson and Bienvenido Diaz are all scheduled to appear in separate matches. More information on opponents and additional bouts will be announced shortly.

“This is our first time doing a card at the PAL and I’m expecting a sellout,” said Michael Daugherty, CEO of All Out Promotions. “We’ve got an excellent mix of talent from different neighborhoods and backgrounds to maximize fan interest. The venue is perfect for a fight card since there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Ticket sales have been strong and we’re already looking into adding extra seating.”

The Parsippany PAL is located at 33 Baldwin Road Parsippany, NJ 07054.

It looks like Floyd Mayweather could be rematch Marcos Maidana on September 13 according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Mayweather said during an interview with LaTen Media before Sunday night’s BET Awards that he would be facing Maidana again.

“Sept. 13, back to business, Marcos Maidana-Floyd Mayweather, part II,” Mayweather said. “And then in May, I’m fighting in May and I’ll have a big surprise for ya’ll.”

However, Maidana manager Sebastian Contursi told ESPN.com on Tuesday that there was no deal yet and that he has been talking with Al Haymon — the adviser to both Mayweather and Maidana — about the fight.

“Still in the talks. Nothing confirmed on our side,” Contursi told said. “Hopefully, we’ll have a decision made in the next 4-5 days.”

“Floyd Mayweather has set the bar so damn high with the pay-per-view success that he’s personally had that he is only competing with himself. Last I checked Floyd Mayweather is the only one making the kind of money he is making. He has no peers. He has zero peers. There is no other boxer or athlete in the world generating that kind of revenue. Love him or hate him he is the money machine.”, said Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe.

WHAT: “50 Cent’s Birthday Bash”

WHEN: Wednesday, July 2, 2014

WHERE: Grand Theater at Fox Tower, Foxwoods Resorts Casino, Mashantucket, Connecticut

WHO: MAIN EVENT – IBF WORLD JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR (12) – ESPN
MARK “Too Sharp” DAVIS(18-0), Cleveland, Ohio 130 LBS.
vs.
MICHAEL “Hammer Fist” FARENAS (38-4-4, 30 KOs), Paranaque City, Philippines 130 LBS.

(L-R): Michael Farenas-Mark Davis

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (10) – ESPN
BILLY “The Kid” DIB (36-3, 21 KOs), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 131 LBS.
vs.
ALBERTO “Kichis” GARZA(26-7-1, 21 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 131 LBS.

(L-R): Algerto Garza-Billy Dib

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4) – ESPN
RYAN “Blue-Chip” MARTIN (6-0, 3 KOs), Cleveland, OH 135 LBS.
vs.
MATTHEW “Champ” BACA (4-1-1, 2 KOs), Albuquerque, New Mexico 135 LBS.

(L-R): Matthew Baca-Ryan Martin

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
JIMMY WILLIAMS (6-0-1, 3 KOs), New Haven, Connecticut 150 LBS.
vs.
STEPHAN OWUSU(8-6, 4 KOs), Bronx, New York 149 LBS.

FEMALE JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)
SHELLY “Shelito’s Way” VINCENT (11-0, 1 KO), Providence, Rhode Island 123 LBS.
vs.
NYDIA “Da Phenomenal” FELICIANO (7-5-3, 0 KOs), Bronx, New York 123 LBS.

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
NICK DE LOMBA (3-0, 0 KOs), Cranston, Rhode Island 144 LBS.
vs.
EDWIN SOTO (9-1-2, 4 KOs), New Haven, Connecticut by way of Puerto Rico 145 LBS.

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
LUIS CRUZ (7-0, 4 KOs), Bronx, New York 139 LBS.
vs.
RYAN PICOU (1-2, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, Nevada

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)
JUNIOR Sugar Boy” YOUNAN (4-0, 4 KOs), Brooklyn, New York 168 LBS.
vs.
AZAMAT UMARZODA (0-3-1), Las Vegas, Nevada 169 LBS.

PROMOTER: SMS Promotions

TELEVISION: Special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights

TICKETS: $100.00, $75.00 and $45.00 on sale online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office. .

AFTER PARTY: Doors to the after party will open at 10:00 p.m. ET. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office.

DOORS OPEN: 6 p.m. ET FIRST BOUT: 7 p.m. ET ESPN2 BROADCAST: 9-11 p.m. ET

UBER PROMOTION: Uber will provide new Uber users a free ride (up to $20) to fight attendees on behalf of SMS Promotions. See full details below.

Enjoy Your First Free Ride With Uber

How does it work? Using Uber’s free iPhone/Android/Blackberry 7 app, you can request a pickup and a car driven by a professional driver will show up in minutes. Your credit card is billed directly for your trip and there’s no need to tip, so you won’t need to carry cash. You can even see the car coming towards you on a map!

Follow these simple steps to get $20 off your ride:

1. Download the free Uber iPhone/Android/Blackberry 7 app (or sign up at get.uber.com/go/SMSboxing)

2. Enter your information in the Uber app and promo code SMSboxing when you sign up.

3. Request a ride 5 – 15 minutes before you need one. $20 will be applied towards your first ride on uberX, UberBLACK, or UberSUV (excluding uberT, expires 07/04/15, US only)

Uber is now available in over 130 cities worldwide including Providence, Boston, Connecticut and New York City

Questions? Check out uber.com/nyc or email supportNY@uber.com.

Toronto – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 television channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, will broadcast extensive UFC 175: Weidman vs. Machida and The Ultimate Fighter 19 Finale fight week coverage, including live weigh-ins, press conferences and exclusive pre and post-fight interviews on the scene from Las Vegas.

Fight Network’s live coverage will be broadcast on Cablevision’s Optimum TV in the U.S., nationwide in Canada, as well as internationally as part of Fight Network’s expansion on ZON in Portugal, Telenet in Belgium, D-Smart in Turkey, ZAP in Angola and Mozambique, and OSN across the Middle East and North Africa.

Premiering on Wednesday, July 2, at 7 p.m. ET, Fight News Now: MMA Edition will break down the UFC’s doubleheader in Las Vegas, including previews, features, predictions and much more.

Additional fight week coverage will be featured throughout the week during Fight News Now Extra, highlighting the official media day, UFC Fan Expo festivities and pre-fight interviews.

On Friday, July 4, at 7 p.m. ET, Fight Network will air a live broadcast of the official weigh-ins for UFC 175: Weidman vs. Machida, as all the fighters tip the scales ahead of their fights on Saturday night. Weigh-ins will include original commentary and analysis from Fight Network’s studios.

The live weigh-ins for The Ultimate Fighter 19 Finale take place on Saturday, July 5 at 4 p.m. with headliners B.J. Penn and Frankie Edgar weighing in for Sunday’s trilogy bout.

Immediately following Saturday’s pay-per-view broadcast of UFC 175, Fight Network will broadcast a live post-show that includes the official post-fight press conference, interviews from the winners, fight highlights and analysis.

Finally, on Monday, July 7, at 7 p.m. ET, the premiere of 5 Rounds will showcase a full recap of both cards, including a look ahead to what the future has in store for the winners and losers.

For a full listing of Fight Network’s broadcast schedule, please visit tv.fightnetwork.com and follow on Twitter @fightnet, become a fan on Facebook and visit us on Instagram @fightnet.

Las Vegas, Nev. ? The Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) announced a new partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada and the Ultimate Alliance to develop a grassroots sports program providing local youth the access and opportunity to excel in wrestling. The program will provide children the resources to develop techniques, fundamentals, and the mindset to perform successfully in the sport of wrestling as well as teaching discipline, focus, and accountability for daily life.

“The UFC is thrilled to partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada and the Ultimate Alliance to help provide young athletes in the region the necessary resources to succeed in the sport of wrestling and to maximize their fullest potential,” said UFC Vice President of Community Relations Reed Harris. “Participants of this program will be given exclusive instruction from the best wrestling and mixed martial arts athletes in the world as well as equipment and funding for practice and competition.”

Bryan Lindsey, Volunteer Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Ultimate Alliance, added, “Teaming up with the UFC and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada to coach, develop and mentor the youth of Nevada and the United States has been a vision of mine for years. We are all very excited to work closely together to grow the sport of wrestling to a level we have yet to see in the history of the sport.”

UFC stars and wrestling legends Matt Hughes and Daniel Cormier will serve as UFC Ambassadors of the Boys & Girls Clubs Wrestling Program. With their extensive careers in amateur wrestling and mixed martial arts, Hughes and Cormier are the perfect representatives to teach and educate the youth about the transformative potential of wrestling. The UFC will also support the program by conducting clinics with various athletes and providing financial assistance and training equipment.

The partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada and the Ultimate Alliance represents a strong commitment from the UFC to help the local youth of Southern Nevada. Along with an extensive community outreach program, the UFC has continually built relationships with local organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in the local community. This new program will serve as a springboard for a national campaign that will ultimately provide the resources necessary to educate youth about the positive influence of wrestling.

About the Ultimate Fighting Championship®

Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC®) is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Beijing, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries to 800+ million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS™, a digital subscription service with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT™ (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, Octagon™ branded apparel, best-selling DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit www.UFC.com and follow UFC at www.Facebook.com/UFC and on Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

About the Ultimate Alliance
The Ultimate Alliance was formed to create massive change in the sport of wrestling at the grass roots in the United States. Three of the largest youth wrestling organizations in the United States have come together to create this movement of change. We are about being creative and entrepreneurial and providing a platform for the youth of the United States to participate in a progressive program that teaches the children of the U.S. dedication, focus, determination, respect, accountability and a passion for greatness.

About the National High School Coaches Association
The NHSCA is a 501c3 non-profit organization with a mission statement to provide leadership and support to the nation’s 1 million high school coaches and 10 million high school athletes. The NHSCA selects the national coach and athlete of the year in 22 boys and girls sports that will be featured in the NHSCA National High school Sports Hall of Fame Museum. The museum serves as a home for all of the 20,000 high schools in America to honor their outstanding coaches, athletes and administrators. The NHSCA Educational Resource Center provides educational programs for coaches as well as a coach certification program. The NHSCA also provides unlimited liability insurance for all of its members.

About National United Wrestling Association for Youth
NUWAY is a grassroots organization that looks at every decision as one of investment to make sure that every child has an opportunity to have a full wrestling experience from the moment they begin at their respective youth wrestling club, into elementary and high school, college, international competition and finally, to compete at the professional level. Investing back into our own state is the backbone of our organization! We believe that in order for each state to become a strong and independent state organization, we must invest in the wrestling programs in our community at the youth, high school, and college level. Our vision is become a stronger sport nationally by investing in local wrestling programs. For more info, go to www.nuwaywrestling.com.

About Rocky Mountain National Events (RMN Events)
Rocky Mountain National Events is a youth wrestling organization serving wrestlers across the nation. We are a wrestling organization that provides the opportunity for youth to participate in wrestling championships, which encourages their development not only as athletes but as students as well. Involvement with wrestling and sports in general has been shown to increase youths’ self-esteem, confidence, and social skills. Our championship wrestling meets are listed in our calendar and we welcome new athletes all the time as well as spectators. We invite you to get involved with the most unforgettable youth wrestling tournaments in the country. Help us Inspire, Encourage & Recognize the future leaders of our great nation. For more info, go to www.rmnevents.com.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada
The new Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada is a merger of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Henderson and Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas. The new nonprofit organization operates 14 facilities and three summer outreach programs in Southern Nevada, and serves more than 31,000 youth in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Southern Highlands and Summerlin. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada provides every child with the essential tools needed for a successful and bright future through a variety of daily creative, fun, and educational programs. For information, visit www.bgchenderson.org, http://www.bgclv.org, and coming soon http://www.bgcsnv.org, or call 702.367.2582

Providence, Rhode Island – July 1, 2014 – CES MMA, the East Coast’s premier MMA organization, airs live for the first time on AXS TV FIGHTS with “CES MMA XXV” on Aug. 8 at 9pE/6pP from the Twin River Casino in Lincoln, Rhode Island. AXS TV FIGHTS broke the story last Friday on INSIDE MMA, the network’s long-running, weekly mixed martial arts talk show.

“CES MMA XXV” boasts a stacked fight card featuring the return of the America Top Team undefeated featherweight Charles Rosa versus Nick Gonzalez, the 2013 Fight of the Year Bazzie Award nominee. The line-up also includes lightweight fighter Josh LaBerge and bantamweight fighter Tateki Matsuda.

AXS TV FIGHTS commentators, five-time MMA world champion Pat Miletich and award-winning sports journalist and renowned commentator “The Voice” Michael Schiavello, are cage side to call the night’s action, providing live play-by-play and color commentary throughout the event.

“Through our partnership with AXS TV FIGHTS, we are able to continue our strategic expansion as we make our live television debut,” said CES MMA vice president Jimmy Burchfield Jr. “As the network’s East Coast MMA representative, our alliance provides us the opportunity to showcase and develop some of the most exciting fighters in the area.”

CES MMA has guided the careers of many fighters in their journey to achieve the next level, including John “Doomsday” Howard, who, when released from the UFC, went on a five fight KO streak under the direction of CES MMA before re-signing with the UFC in August 2013; Rob Font, the CES MMA featherweight champ, who was 6-0 in the CES cage when he was called up to debut at UFC 175 this July; and Brennan “The Irish Bad Boy” Ward, who went 3-0 in the CES cage before inking a Bellator contract and finding success in the Bellator middleweight tournament.

For ticket and bout information visit www.cesmma.com. Tickets start at $40 and can also be purchased online at www.twinriver.com or reserved by phone at 401-724-2253 ext. 2254. All fights and fighters are subject to change. For up-to-date information “like” CES MMA on Facebook here, follow on Twitter at @CESMMA and Instagram at CESMMA, and watch on YouTube here.

ABOUT AXS TV FIGHTS

AXS TV Fights presents more LIVE mixed martial arts and kickboxing events than any other television network with 36+ LIVE world-class fight cards each year. “The Voice” Michael Schiavello and five-time MMA world champion Pat Miletich call all the action as champions, challengers, and top prospects take center stage every Friday night at 10pE/7pP. AXS TV Fights can be found online, on Facebook and on Twitter. AXS TV is widely distributed in the U.S. via AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast/Xfinity, DIRECTV, DISH, Suddenlink, Verizon FiOS, and other cable, satellite and telco providers. The network is also carried in Canada and the Caribbean.

Atlantic City, NJ: Isaac “Golden Boy” Chilemba (22-2-2, 9 KOs), the 27 year old light heavyweight sensation from Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa will return to Atlantic City to face Cory “Black Ice” Cummings (17-6-1, 13 KOs) as the non-televised co-feature of the August 2nd fight between fellow Main Events’ stable mate Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (24-0-1, 22 KOs) and Blake “Il Capo” Caparello (19-0-1, 6 KOs).

Grachev and Chilemba
Photo Credits: Rich Graessle/Main Events

Chilemba is coming off a gritty ten-round unanimous decision victory over Denis Grachev on March 15, 2010 at Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, PA. This was his second straight victory. Previously Isaac defeated Michael Gbenga in eight rounds at Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, NY on November 16, 2013. When asked about this upcoming fight with Cummings, “Golden Boy” replied, “I want to thank Main Events for this opportunity. I also want to thank my team and all my fans. Come August 2 I will be fully charged and ready to claim victory. I take all my opponents seriously as each one takes me a step closer to realizing my dream of the world title, so Cory Cummings should not for one minute think that I am coming unprepared!”

According to Isaac’s trainer, former welterweight and light welterweight world champion Buddy McGirt, “Isaac is going to be ready for Cummings. We are going to be in great shape and prepare for anything that Cummings may throw at us. A good performance will move Isaac to the next level and he will accept nothing less.” Jodi Solomon, Chilemba’s manager, added, “Isaac’s winning on August 2 will be a testament to his work ethic, determination to succeed and the incredible training he receives from Buddy McGirt, who is one of the best trainers in the game.”

Cory “Black Ice” Cummings
Photo Courtesy of:
Ron Rose

Isaac will face no small challenge in Cory “Black Ice’ Cummings. Despite coming off of two straight defeats, Cummings has a dangerous knockout-to-win ratio of 76% (13 of 17). In his last fight, he faced Azea Augustama who was 16-1 heading into their match-up on June 7, 2013 in Miami, FL. Azea won a very close decision with all three judges scoring the bout 76-75. Many boxing fans believed Cummings won the bout, especially after he knocked Azea down in the first round.

When asked about his upcoming fight on August 2nd with Chilemba, Cory took a line from Mike Tyson and said only, “Everyone has a plan until they get hit.” His manager, Ron Rose, added, “Tell Isaac Chilemba to beware because there’s an ice storm that is going to hit Atlantic City on Aug 2nd, a ‘Black Ice’ storm, and there is nowhere for him to hide.”

Main Events CEO Kathy Duva said, “This fight will not be televised in the United States, so we have a really nice light heavyweight double header exclusively for the fans in attendance at Revel on August 2nd. Issac Chilemba is a piece of our plan for the division and I’m excited to see what he can do against a big puncher like Cummings.”

About Kovalev vs. Caparello:

The WBO Light Heavyweight World Championship between Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev, (24-0-1, 22 KOs) and Blake “Il Capo” Caparello (19-0-1, 6 KOs) is on Saturday, August 2nd at Revel Casino Hotel in Atlantic, City, NJ. The fight will be telecast as part of a split-site triple-header on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 9:45 PM ET/PT. The event is presented by Main Events in association with DiBella Entertainment. Tickets prices are $55, $80, $160 and $250. They are available at ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the HBO Boxing After Dark special triple header split site telecast begins at 9:45 PM.

About Revel

Revel Casino Hotel is Atlantic City’s newest and most spacious casino resort and convention destination. Located on Atlantic City’s world-famous boardwalk, the ocean front hotel is designed to offer endless views of the Atlantic at every turn. The casino resort offers 130,000 square feet of world class gaming, with 2,400 slots, 130 table games, electronic tables and players’ lounges, along with the high-limit table game Ultra Lounge. A member of the American Express Gold Hotel Collection, Revel features 1,399 ocean view rooms. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, cabanas, gardens, lounges, a 32,000-square-foot spa, 13 restaurants that offer a range of fine dining to deliciously affordable menu options, a collection of boutiques, nightclubs, a dayclub, and live entertainment at The Social and showroom headliners at Ovation Hall. While taking in all the casino has to offer, guests can earn points as they play, dine, shop and relax with the Revel Card loyalty program. For additional information and updates, and for complete details and rules of all promotions, customers can visit the Revel Card desk or visit www.revelcasino.com and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/revel and follow @revelresorts on Twitter and @revelcasino on Instagram.

NEW JERSEY (July 1, 2014) – Gary Shaw Productions and Antonio Leonard Promotions are happy to announce the return of their highly touted prospects, Kenneth “Bossman” Sims Jr. (2-0, 1 KO) and Eduardo Martinez (2-0, 1 KO). Both fighters hail from Chicago and will fight July 11, 2014 at the Little Creek Casino Resort in Shelton, WA.

Headlining the ESPN “Friday Night Fights” card will be middleweights Tureano Johnson (14-1, 10 KOs) and Mike Gavronski (14-0-1, 10 KOs) who’ll battle in a 10-round middleweight showdown for the Continental Americas USNBC Title. In the co-feature, lightweights, Art Hovhannisyan (17-1-2, 9 KOs) and Jonathan Maicelo (20-1, 12 KOs) will square off for the WBC International Silver Title. The ESPN “Friday Night Fights” telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. EST / 6:00 p.m. PST.

Simms Jr. will fight Evan Woolsey (2-2) in a 4-round Welterweight bout. The fight will be the TV swing bout of the night. Sims Jr. is coming off an impressive first round KO in his last fight and will look to continue the momentum.

“It felt real good to get that knockout in my last fight,” said Sims Jr. “I’m going to come out strong again and see what happens. If I can get the knockout then that would be great. I’m not going to be headhunting but I’ll be throwing hard shots for every angle. I really want to thank my promoters Gary Shaw and Antonio Leonard for keeping me busy. If I get a chance to make an appearance on ESPN I’ll make the most of my opportunity.”

Martinez battles Lavale Wilson (1-3) 4-round Featherweight bout. Martinez also recorded a first round knockout in his last bout, the first of his career.

“Shaw and Leonard are doing a great job keeping us busy,” said Martinez. “I’m a pressure fighter so I’m always looking to wear down my opponent and get the knockout. I’ll be aggressive in this fight and will be doing my best to please the fans with a great exciting fight.”

“This is going to be a great card with a lot of exciting fights,” said Gary Shaw. “Sims and Martinez are hungry and I know they are going to bring a ton of action to the Little Creek Casino. The main and co-main will open up doors for the winners so I’m expecting to see something special from each fighter.”

Rounding out the undercard will be Jared Torgeson (0-1) vs. Marquise Weston (2-0, 1 KO) in a 4-round Cruiserweight bout, Guillermo Delgadillo (4-6-1) vs. Ricardo Maldonado (3-1) in a 4-round Lightweight bout, Fatlum Zhuta (Pro Debut) vs. Woo Johnson (Pro Debut) and Jennifer Hamann (Pro Debut) vs. Ariel Beck (3-0).

Tickets priced $100, $50, $35 and $20 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the Little Creek Casino at 1-800-667-7711, onsite at the Little Creek Casino Box Office, or online at www.little-creek.com.

July 1, 2014 – HBO Sports® debuts an all-new installment of “2 Days” when the feature segment returns Saturday, July 26 at 11:45 p.m. (ET/PT) with a behind-the-scenes look at world light heavyweight title-holder Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev, one of boxing’s fastest rising stars.

“2 Days” is a revealing and intimate look at a 48-hour span in the life of a boxer in the lead-up to one of his fights and the next edition will focus on Russian native Sergey Kovalev. HBO cameras followed the 31-year-old powerhouse puncher — who has ended 22 of his 24 wins in knockout fashion –prior to his first fight of 2014 when he met Cedric Agnew on March 29 in Atlantic City. Kovalev now calls Ft. Lauderdale home.

HBO air times include: July 26 (11:45 p.m.), 27 (12:00 p.m.), 29 (4:45 p.m. & 3:15 a.m.), 30 (12:30 p.m.), 31 (9:45 p.m. & 3:05 a.m.) and August 1 (11:15 a.m. & 5:45 p.m.) and 2 (11:15 a.m.).

HBO2 air times include: July 28 (7:15 p.m. & 1:15 a.m.), 29 (9:15 p.m.), 30 (12:35 a.m.), 31 (11:00 a.m.) and August 1 (8:15 p.m.).

All times are ET/PT.

Kovalev is slated to return to the ring on Saturday, Aug. 2 when he defends his 175-pound title vs. Blake Caparello live on HBO at 9:45 p.m. (ET/PT) from Revel Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ.

“2 Days” will also be available on the HBO On Demand® service, HBO GO® and at www.hbo.com/boxing as well as various other new media platforms that distribute the series.

Las Vegas, Nev. – The UFC and FOX Sports organizations announced today the termination of their respective broadcasting services agreements with analyst Chael Sonnen. This decision comes in light of Sonnen failing a second test conducted by the Nevada Athletic Commission for banned substances in June. Sonnen was previously under temporary suspension by the Nevada Athletic Commission for failing an initial test conducted in May.

Lisa Milner
Thank you, everybody for calling in today. We are talking about Abner Mares vs Jonathan Oquendo, which is the co-main event in the “Honor & Glory: Canelo Alvarez vs. Erislandy Lara” SHOWTIME PPV ®event. On the call we have both fighters and we have Stephen Espinoza of SHOWTIME Sports and President and Founder of Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya.

Before I turn it over to Oscar I just wanted to let everyone know that next Tuesday will be Canelo Alvarez’s media day in San Diego and next Wednesday will be the Canelo Alvarez and Erislandy Lara media conference call, so please keep an eye on your inboxes for that information.

Now, I will turn the call over to Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar, please go ahead.

Oscar De La Hoya
Thank you very much. It is a great pleasure to be on this call with all the media and, especially, with both fighters. We are really excited and thrilled to be showcasing such a great matchup with Abner Mares and Jonathan Oquendo, who we all know very well.

This is a fight that will be a 10-round fight in the Featherweight division supporting the main event, Canelo vs Erislandy Lara, which will be a 12-round Junior Middleweight bout. It is taking place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas July 12th.

At this moment let me take this opportunity to introduce to you and say a few words from Showtime Sports, Stephen Espinoza.

Stephen Espinoza
Thank you, Oscar. We’re very excited and very happy to have Abner Mares back on SHOWTIME. As all of you know, Abner has a long history on our network and, as you all know, during that history he has not hesitated to take on any challenge that he’s been given. Mares fights the toughest fights without exception and he is always entertaining along the way.

So, we are, again, happy to have him in the SHOWTIME family and happy to have him in this good, action-oriented fight. Jonathan Oquendo, he has good power and is an aggressive boxer. We made this matchup because it fits with the style of the card, two action guys, a great rivalry, Mexico vs Puerto Rico, and we’re looking for fireworks, just as we are throughout the entire card on July 12.

O. De La Hoya
Thank you. Let me also take this opportunity to thank AT&T, who have been doing a great job as a partner of Golden Promotions, along with Corona, thank you very much for your continued support and we are really thrilled to be presenting to the fans across the globe this tremendous, tremendous line-up.

Let me introduce to you the first participant on this call. He hails from Bayamon, Puerto Rico. He has won 10 of his last 12 bouts, seven by knockout. He holds wins over Jose Luis Araiza, Eden Sonsona and Alejandro Montiel. He’s coming off a great 12-round unanimous decision over top prospect Guillermo Avila. So, obviously, he’s here and he wants to make a statement, especially on this big blockbuster Pay-Per-View card July 12th, at 24-3 (16 KOs) from Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Jonathan Oquendo.

Jonathan Oquendo
I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions. I want to thank PR Boxing, the promoters, for helping me get on this card. I’m very happy and I’m anxious for the date to arrive.

O. De La Hoya
Let me introduce to you a fighter that we have been cultivating right from the start. We are thrilled and excited to once again be showcasing Abner Mares on such a tremendous card. I remember him right from the Olympic Games and right from the start knowing that this young fighter is going to be something special in the sport of boxing.

He hails from Guadalajara Jalisco, Mexico, and now fighting out of Downey, California. He’s a member of the 2004 Mexican Olympic team. He had a tremendous stoppage win versus Daniel Ponce de Leon to win the WBC Featherweight crown. He is the previous owner of the Bantamweight and Super Bantamweight Championships and, obviously, he’s anxious to return.

He has been off for a year and is coming into this difficult fight against Oquendo, who is a very solid, tough fighter from Puerto Rico. So, without any further ado, Abner Mares.

Abner Mares
Thank you, Oscar. You forgot Featherweight Champion, actually, which I’ve been. Thank you so much, Oscar, Showtime, Jonathan Oquendo for taking this fight. I’m excited. It’s going to be close to a year since I have been in the ring, since I have fought and I can’t wait. I’m excited to make the card. I didn’t choose an easy fight. I chose a hard, hungry fighter such as Jonathan Oquendo and I can’t wait. I can’t wait for July 12th, another great card for Showtime and I’m really excited.

Q
What did you learn from your last fight, the loss with Jhonny Gonzalez? What have you been doing the whole year, how have you been preparing? How have you been working so that the inactivity doesn’t affect you in this upcoming fight?

A. Mares
You learn a lot from a loss. In fact, you learn more from a loss sometimes than from wins. The inactivity, the year out, it made me see a lot of things, rethink a lot of things and, obviously, rejuvenated me. I’ve been coming off a long string of title defenses, fight after fight, tough fights. In a period of eight, nine months I did a lot of tough fights. We’ve got a new team working with Virgil Hunter out here in the Bay area and if it affects me, the layoff, it’ll be for the first few rounds, but once I get in my rhythm, nothing is going to stop me.

Q
Jonathan, what have you seen? It’s a very good fight, a big fight, tough fight and the fights between Puerto Rico and Mexico are always great fights. What can you tell us?

J. Oquendo
I’m very appreciative of the opportunity. I’ve always admired Abner. He’s a great fighter, great champion. The fights between Mexico and Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico and Mexico, they’re always classic wars. He’s coming to fight. I’m coming to fight and the fans are going to win that night because they’re going to see a tremendous fight.

Q
Obviously, it’s a great card, a lot of Mexican fighters distributed throughout the card. What are the expectations, seeming that it’s a great date, the ending of the World Cup, and what are the expectations as far as Pay-Per-View goes?

S. Espinoza
We have high expectations for this fight. It’s a solid card top to bottom, with high quality fights. There is competition from the World Cup that weekend. Without a doubt a lot of the Spanish language media, in particular, are paying a lot of attention to World Cup, as are the English language media.

So, there will be competition, but there’s competition every weekend. We are very confident that this is going to be a very solid Pay-Per-View performer for us.

Q
How come the Gonzalez fight was never put back together after that postponement?

A. Mares
Well, I did suffer a brief injury in Mexico City. I was training for that fight for February, a rematch against Jhonny Gonzalez and then after that we just didn’t agree with dates pretty much. That was the whole case of the fight not happening.

He wanted to take some time off. I was not going to give any advantages, so I decided not to take the fight any time soon and he didn’t want to wait. So, with that said, I needed more time for myself to recover. I’m just focused on this fight, but later on in the future it’s possible again.

Q
So, I understand you have to be focused on your preparation for the fight coming up in a couple of weeks, but is, in the back of your mind still the idea that you would like to gain revenge against Jhonny?

A. Mares
Yes, no doubt. This is a guy who took my undefeated record. He did take a lot from me that night. I’m not saying physically, because it happened so fast, less than a round. So, thank God, physically, I wasn’t damaged that much, but naturally he did as far as taking my undefeated record, so believe me, I do want my rematch, I want my revenge. But that will come within time.

Q
How do you approach those early rounds where fighters coming back from knockouts, especially such a quick one, can be, at least mentally, a little bit in a familiar place?

A. Mares
Well, you know what, it’s funny, I didn’t even say this, but I was blessed that the fight was stopped shortly. I was going to get up that second time, but the ref did make the great call and did not let me continue or else I think I would have done even more damage or even, who knows, I would have probably fought back, a lot of punches. But at the end of the day I did take this fight because I know I’m ready mentally.

I’ve gone through that stage early and that’s why I took this whole time, almost close to a year off and I’m back. I always had that in my mind, when I first signed a contract to be a professional fighter that there was going to be a loss. No matter what, this is a contact sport, it’s a risky sport, anything can happen. I’m ready for anything.

Q
Abner, are there any distractions whatsoever because as I understand it you’re in the process of parting with your manager, Frank Espinoza. I believe you’ve sought arbitration in California. Can you tell me what’s going on with that and if there are any distractions at all?

A. Mares
No distractions whatsoever. Actually, I’m in the Bay area. I’m away from home. I’m in an actual camp out here and I think if anything else, I’ll just fight against Jonathan Oquendo, a great fighter. As far as Espinoza situation, my lawyer is taking care of it. I have nothing to do with it as in now.

Q
Jonathan, why is it going to be different this time than what happened in the previous fights when you fought better opposition?

J. Oquendo
Basically, the couple of times I wasn’t in the best preparation that I could have had. I’ve learned from that. Like they say, third time is a charm. And you know what, we’re taking it very serious. I know Abner Mares. I know his capabilities. I know how risky this fight is. We were both, at one time, with Golden Boy years ago and I always thought that was a possibility to make this fight, you know, Puerto Rico vs Mexico, down the road we would make it.

I had a couple of losses and they taught me and now we have a good team. We’re preparing really well and, you know what, I’m excited. It didn’t run in my mind after a while that I was going to be fighting him after a few years, but the fight is here. I’m very anxious, I’m very excited and I look forward to it.

Q
What is involved in the mental adjustment in not fighting for you, when you’re used to fighting that often against quality fights?

A. Mares
Like you said, I am through fighting that many opponents and every time I finish a fight I like to go back and look at what I did wrong and what we could prevent. As you mentioned, you saw progress in Abner in every other fight. It was a different Abner and the next fight, it’s going to be a totally different Abner because of how camp, I told you guys, I just recently switched coaches.

So, you will see a different Abner and this whole time being off just helped me, helped me to get hungrier, helped me to get healthier and helped me mentally to be close with my family. So, believe me, I’m taking this fight like if this was my debut fight.

Q
How do you characterize the change in training? Is Virgil Hunter tweaking things? Is he adding anything? Is there anything that you didn’t do that he’s improving?

A. Mares
All of the above. You mentioned tweaking things, he’s improving things, he’s making me see things I didn’t know and we’re working with each other. We’re working with what I have and he’s working with what he’s going to give me. So, I’ve seen a lot of progress already with him, the sparring sessions already, so believe me, when fight night comes all that will be shown.

Q
Do you think it’s going to be a situation like with Amir Khan where the first couple of fights people were very critical when he fought, I think, Molina and then he fought Diaz? Or do you think you’ll step right in and be real smooth right off the bat?

A. Mares
I would like to think that, yeah, it will be just as Khan did this last fight against Collazo, that will be the result the next fight. I show that I’ve shown a lot of progress already and I think that’s the Abner Mares you guys will see that night.

Q
Abner, you were always a very well-rounded fighter offensively and defensively. Has Virgil helped you more on the defensive end or on the offensive end?

A. Mares
Defensive, no question,that is one of the top reasons why we are here and we needed that. That was shown even in the fight before the Ponce fight, I think I boxed somewhat good, but still was getting caught with some punches that I was missing punches. So, there’s still room for progress, there’s still room for learning, I’m at that stage. I’m 28 years old. I feel young, I really feel young for the 26 fights that I have in my career, I feel like I’ve done so much yet I can do some more. I’m progressing and I’m happy to have made the decisions that I’ve made so far, which is come more eager and keep on learning.

Q
Abner, also what do you know about Oquendo? What sort of things does he present that you really have to worry about? I know he’s been in the ring with a lot of good fighters, what’s your scouting report on him at the moment?

A. Mares
Everything, because if you look at it, he’s a hungry fighter. He’s coming off a fight early this year, so he’s got that advantage. Again, I mentioned the hungry fighter, he wants to win. He’s a tough fighter. I know him because we’ve both been signed with Golden Boy Promotions for a period of time and we’ve fought in a couple of same cards, so as well as he knows about me, I know about him.

I’ll tell you, he’s a tough cookie, he’s a tough guy and I did not choose an easy fight for my comeback and that’s exactly what I need, I need someone that’s going to pressure me and someone that’s going to take me to deep water so I could revive to get that Abner Mares, you know, that anger back in me.

Q
Abner, There were talks in the past that you were going to fight Jason Velez. In fact, the WBC even announced it as a possible eliminator and how did that affect you, how did you adjust for the change that now you’re fighting Jonathan Oquendo?

A. Mares
They never really formally mentioned or offered it and I was never preparing for Jason Velez. This was the fight that I’ve been training for and preparing for and I see Jonathan, another Puerto Rican, obviously, like Velez, but even more dangerous. A stronger, more aggressive, he’s coming, he knows what a win means. Obviously, it’s even a riskier fight, so that’s what we’re preparing for.

Q
Alfredo Angulo had mentioned to us how on a personal level Virgil Hunter had helped him. Is that your case as well? Are you having a lot of help with him personally?

A. Mares
I came here for Virgil to seek a trainer for the training purposes. On the personal level, that’s my family. I see professional psychologist and that helped me tremendously. But for here, it’s the training.

Q
How long was your time working with the psychologist and what was the most important, what did he help you with the most?

A. Mares
I want to make a quick correction. Not a psychologist, it was more of a coach, sporting coach that helped bring back the Abner that maybe had been lost, re-live that Abner that had got me there. After the loss, obviously, I was a little sad, but thanks to God and thanks to my family and I was with the coach for three months and he helped me bring that out and I want to continue fighting for many years.

It’s the risk we’re in and this is the type of game. You risk losing and you’ve just got to learn to get up and I may lose again and guess what, I’ll know how to get up.

Q
You had the opportunity to go up a division to look for that fourth title, the fourth division. You stayed at 126. What’s the intent, what’s the goal? To fight for a world title? Most of the champions are with Top Rank.

A. Mares
Obviously, you’ve heard the news, my promoter, Golden Boy Promotions is looking to work with top rank in fights in the future and, look, they have great fighters, great champions, so I feel very comfortable at 126 right now. That’s what I have in front of me right now and I have an opponent that I’m concentrating on him. But at the time, at the time maybe I was thinking with my heart and not with the mind.

I want to go in for the fourth division, but sometimes when you think with the heart only, it can run into mistakes and it could cost you. It could have cost me a loss right there. So, right now, I’m making the weight very comfortable. I’m very happy at 126 and we’re going to continue here.

Q
Jonathan, what do you expect from Abner Mares? Do you expect the Abner Mares, because of the coming off a knockout loss gives you an opportunity or do you expect the Abner Mares from before the loss and that it’s just going back up to world champion level and this could put, a win, obviously, could put you at that level?

J. Oquendo
Abner mentioned it earlier, you fall, you lose, you’ve got to learn to get up. To be a great champion, great fighters, you have to learn to fall and get up. I’ve learned from my past, from my mistakes. He took some time off, he rested. He knows what he needed to do. I’m positive, I know he’s coming to fight. I know he’s coming. I know what kind of fighter he is.

When I’ve lost in the past, a couple of weeks later, I’m back in the gym. That’s my way of dealing with it. That’s my therapy, right back in the gym. I’m very prepared. I know what this fight means. And I’m just looking forward to the date. I’m ready.

Q
Abner, with the loss, the obvious question is how important is it to be victorious on your upcoming fight?

A. Mares
Obviously, significant, significant to my career, obviously, getting back on that list of winning. It would mean a lot to me, my fans, my family and we’re preparing, we know we have a tough opponent, a difficult fight, a strong fight, but that’s what we’re preparing for.

Q
You’ve, obviously, made the change in trainer, probably working on a variety of things. What is the difference? What are we going to see different on fight night?

A. Mares
You’re going to see a more intelligent, a little bit more boxing maybe I think that I had that Virgil is bringing back out, that is polishing and showing me. I’ve always liked to go toe-to-toe, I’ve always liked to go forward and aggressive. I’ll still have that, but you’re going to see a little bit more of the boxing in it as well. I know we have a tough, strong opponent, so we’re going to bring it out.

Q
Jonathan, what does it mean to beat an opponent at the level of Abner Mares. I’m assuming that it would mean a lot to you to come out with a victory.

J. Oquendo
This is significant, a win over Abner. We all know he’s a tremendous three-division world champion. This means more than a title to me. This means more. This would put me, we’ve all known that he’s been considered one of the best fighters in the world, so to me this is more than a belt. It’s the status what it would put me in history and what it means for me and my family. It’s everything.

L. Milner
That was actually our last question. So, I want to thank all the participants on today’s call as well as all of the media that dialed in. We will be sending out a fight week schedule next week as well, so keep an eye on your inboxes and thank you so much, everybody, for being here today.
###

“Honor & Glory: Canelo vs. Lara” a 12-round junior middleweight fight taking place Saturday, July 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the co-main event, Abner Mares returns to the ring to face Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round featherweight bout. In the SHOWTIME PPV opening bout, Johan Perez defends his interim WBA Junior Welterweight World Title against Mauricio Herrera in a 12-round matchup. Also, Juan Manuel Lopez meets Francisco Vargas in a 10-round bout for the WBO International Super Featherweight Title.

The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The event can be heard in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP). For information visit www.SHO.com/Sports. Canelo vs. Lara will be shown on the big screen in movie theaters across the country via Fathom Events. Information will be available at www.fathomevents.com.

Tickets are still available at the $750, $500, $250, $150, $75 and $50 price ranges, not including
applicable service charges. Tickets are limited to eighteen (18) per person with a limit of eight
(8) at the $75 and $50 price ranges. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call
Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase
at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

New York, NY (6/30/14) – This Wednesday, 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions returns to the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT, for a special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights. Headlining the card will be Mark Davis (18-0, 5KO’s) putting his undefeated record on the line against Michael Farenas (38-4-4, 30KO’s) in a 12-round super featherweight matchup. In the co-feature bout, former world champion Billy Dib looks to get back to his winning ways when he squares off against Alberto Garza (26-7-1, 21KO’s) in a 10-round super featherweight showdown.

Scheduled to appear on the undercard in separate bouts will be two of the brightest young stars on DiBella Entertainment’s loaded roster, highly regarded undefeated prospects Junior “Sugar Boy” Younan (4-0, 4KO’s) (left in photo above) and Louis “Cruise Control” Cruz (7-0, 4KO’s). Younan will take on tough-as-nails Azamat Umarzoda, who is coming off a majority draw against former amateur standout Kareem Martin in a four-round super middleweight matchup. Cruz squares off against Ryan Picou in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

The “boxing prodigy”, as Younan was referred to in a lengthy New York Times
article written on him and his father/trainer Sherif Younan when Younan was just 10 years old, has long been in the spotlight starting with his amateur career. The blue-chip prospect first picked up a pair of gloves at just two years old and by the time he was eight, he was fighting competitively. Compiling an outstanding 90-5 record, the Brooklyn-native won nearly every major tournament that he competed in on both the regional and national level. In addition to winning the National Junior Olympic championship in 2011 (he lost a debated decision in the 2012 finals), the #1-rated amateur was a nine-time Junior Olympics champion, nine-time Junior Metro champion, eight-time NY State Silver Gloves champion, five-time Regional Silver Gloves champion, four-time National Silver Gloves champion, three-time Ringside World champion, three-time National PAL champion and a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion.

The 18-year-old phenom has more than lived up to his hype in his fist four bouts in his first year as a pro, scoring four devastating knockouts, all which have come before the two-minute mark of the very first round. A tough MMA fighter, Umarzoda has fought four consecutive undefeated opponents, and has only been stopped once in his career, his pro debut, and should provide a test for the young rising star.

Like Younan, the 23-year-old Bronx-native Cruz had a stellar amateur career, which saw him win the 2010 NY Golden Gloves, take silver at the 2011 National Golden Gloves and compete at the 2012 US Olympic Trials. Cruz signed with DBE in early 2013, going a perfect 4-0 that year, and has already picked up two impressive victories this year, including a highlight reel first-round knockout over Jose Santiago in January. Cruz is looking for yet another impressive performance when he takes on Picou Wednesday night.

Tickets for the show are still available and are priced at $100, $75 and $45. In addition to the fights, 50 Cent will be celebrating his birthday that same evening and a purchase of the $100 seats gets you into the birthday bash for free. You can purchase tickets through all Ticketmaster outlets or by visiting www.Foxwoods.com

The special Wednesday, July 2 edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra and ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates presentado por Corona Extra will feature undefeated Jr. Lightweight Mark “Too Sharp” Davis (18-0, 5 KOs) and former Super Featherweight world title challenger Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (37-4-4, 29 KOs) in a 12-round IBF world title eliminator. Wednesday’s show, from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., will air live at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and WatchESPN. The card is promoted by SMS Promotions, which is owned by multiplatinum recording artist and entrepreneur Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. The card is part of 50 Cent’s birthday celebration.

New Picture (1)Commentators:
Blow-by-blow commentator Joe Tessitore will be ringside with analyst Teddy Atlas describing the action for ESPN2, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will provide the latest boxing news and highlights. Commentators Robert Sierra and Alex Pombo will call the fights for Noche de Combates (Fight Night) on ESPN Deportes, while Claudia Trejos and Leopoldo González will anchor the studio.

Main Event:
Cleveland’s Davis is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision win over Carlos Vinan, while Farenas, who hails from the Philippines, is looking to score his fifth consecutive knockout following a second-round TKO win over Hector Velazquez in his last fight.

“Farenas – I don’t think he’s going to touch me,” Davis said. “I’m going to beat him with speed and movement. I think he’s pretty slow on his feet. I think he’s flat-footed….just be ready to see fireworks on July 2.”

Co-Feature:
Friday’s 10-round Jr. Lightweight co-feature will pit former IBF Featherweight titlist Billy “The Kid” Dib (36-3, 21 KOs) of Australia against former Featherweight world title challenger Alberto “Kichis” Garza of Mexico (26-7-1, 21 KOs). Dib is looking to rebound from a ninth-round TKO loss in a rematch against defending titleholder Evgeny Gradovich. Their first title fight in March 2013 headlined Friday Night Fights. Garza is also looking to get back to his winning ways following a 12-round unanimous decision loss to José Pedraza.

Opening Fight:
Wednesday’s telecast will open with a four-round bout between undefeated Jr. Welterweight Ryan Martin (5-0, 3 KOs) and Matthew Baca (4-1-1, 2 KOs).

Upcoming Schedule:

Date

Time (ET)

Main Event

Location

Networks

Wed, Jul 2

9 p.m.

Michael Farenas (38-4-4, 30 KOs) vs. Mark Davis (18-0, 5 KOs)—12 rounds, Jr. Lightweights

Foxwoods Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Jul 11

9 p.m.

Tureano Johnson (14-1, 10 KOs) vs. Mike Gavronski (14-0-1, 10 KOs)—10 rounds, Middleweights

Little Creek Casino, Shelton, Wash.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Jul 18

8 p.m.

Karim Mayfield (18-1-1, 11 KOs) vs. Emmanuel Taylor (17-2, 12 KOs)—10 rounds, Jr. Welterweight

Paramount Theater,
Huntington, N.Y.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Jul 25

9 p.m.

Roberto Garcia (35-3, 23 KOs) vs. Breidis Prescott (27-5, 20 KOs)—10 rounds Welterweight

UIC Convention Center, Chicago

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Aug 1

9 p.m.

Thomas Williams Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) vs. Gabriel Campillo (23-6-1, 10 KOs)—12 rounds, Light Heavyweights

Little Creek Casino, Shelton, Wash.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

*Schedule subject to change

Friday Night Fights and Noche de Combates Social Media:

· Follow ESPN Friday Night Fights on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like it on Facebook.

· Score the fights round-by-round with the “Live Friday Night Fights Facebook Voting App,” an application on the ESPN FNF Facebook page that allows viewers to score the fight round-by-round.

· Follow ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo.

· For the latest ESPN.com boxing news and analysis follow @ESPNBoxing.

LAS VEGAS (June 30, 2014) — With less than two weeks to go until his SHOWTIME PPV® showdown with Canelo Alvarez (43-1-1, 31 KOs), WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (19-1-2, 12 KOs) is looking sensational in sparring and running on all cylinders.

“My sparring partners are pushing me with numerous styles and I’m adapting to all of them comfortably,” Lara said. “I told them to come extra hard to prepare me for the pressure Canelo is going to bring. I feel great and my timing is right on.

“I know Canelo is training hard for this fight, as am I, but unfortunately for him, there is nothing he can do to surprise me. He’s going to find out on July 12 that I’m the superior fighter. His insecurities as a fighter will surface on fight night — that I can guarantee.”

# # #

“Honor & Glory: Canelo vs. Lara” a 12-round junior middleweight fight taking place Saturday, July 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the co-main event Abner Mares returns to face Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round featherweight bout. In the SHOWTIME PPV opening bout, Johan Perez defends his interim WBA World Junior Welterweight Title against Mauricio Herrera in a 12-round match up. Also featured, Juan Manuel “JuanMa” Lopez meets Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas of Mexico in a 10-round bout for the WBO International Super Featherweight Title.

Tickets priced at $750, $500, $250, $150, $75 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, are on sale now. Tickets are limited to eighteen (18) per person with a limit of eight (8) at the $75 and $50 price ranges. Tickets are available by phone and online via Ticketmaster.

The event will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The event can be heard in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP). For information visit www.SHO.com/Sports. Canelo vs. Lara will be shown on the big screen in movie theaters across the country via Fathom Events. Information will be available at www.fathomevents.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, and www.mgmgrand.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @CaneloOficial, @LaraBoxing, @abnermares00, @jonathanoquen, @juanma_lopez, @elbandido130, @elmaestro1, @mgmgrand,@SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm, follow the conversation using #CaneloLara and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing andwww.facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

LAS VEGAS (June 30, 2014) — The Ultimate Fighting Championship® is proud to announce the Official Superfight Tournaments for Grapplers Quest®, the official grappling tournament at the UFC Fan Expo® on Saturday and Sunday, July 5-6 at Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. Amateur Competitors can Pre-Register, Save $21+ and get a limited edition competitor shirt until Wednesday, July 2nd at 11:59 PM http://bit.ly/UFCFanExpo2014 or register at the door with cash only (MAC machines on site).

The two-day tournament will feature All Children and Teens No-Gi and BJJ Divisions and All adult No-Gi submission grappling divisions for Adults 18+ and the first rounds of the 16-Man and 16-Woman LIVE “Ultimate Grappler” Submission Only Tournaments hosted over two days, with qualifying rounds of the tournaments on Saturday, July 5. Then, on Sunday, July 6, the tournament will feature all-adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Divisions as well as the LIVE “Ultimate Grappler” Finales of the Men’s and Women’s Submission Only Professional Divisions.

Special Glass Plaques for All No-Gi Absolute Division Winners, All Men’s and Women’s No-Gi Advanced Divisions, All Men’s and Women’s BJJ Black Belt Absolute divisions and No-Gi Advanced Children’s and Teen’s Divisions will be competing for the prestigious Glass Octagon Awards sponsored by “Meditate With Me” Book & Video Series at: http://KidsCanMeditate.com and Grapplers Quest Founder, Brian Cimins’ Life Coaching Blog at: http://YourStrategyCoach.com

Huge custom Octagon medals and Full Color Certificates will be awarded for All divisions are sponsored by EZ Flex Sports Mats (http://EZFlexMats.com), The Official Mat Sponsor of Grapplers Quest plus OTM Fightshops and Built To Fight Industries at http://OnTheMat.com – the official pro tournament sponsor and official Grapplers Quest rashguard manufacturing company.

$40,000 in Competitor Registration Fees will also be up for Grabs for ALL UFC Fan Expo Champions

All division champions, amateur and professional, All Champions in All Skill Levels Grapplers Quest at UFC Fan Expo on July 5-6 in Las Vegas will win a FREE COMPETITOR Sponsorship ($150 value) for the Official 16th Annual U.S. Nationals of Grappling and Jiu Jitsu Presented on July 26, 2014 in Morristown, New Jersey. Pre-Register, Save $21, Plus Get a FREE T-Shirt, Register now at: http://bit.ly/UFCFanExpo2014

The Amateur UFC Fan Expo grappling tournament is limited to 1,500 competitor slots with nearly 1,100 slots already taken. Competitor pre-registrations end Wednesday, July 2nd at 11:59 PM PST – hurry and register today at: http://bit.ly/UFCFanExpo2014 and registrations will be available at the door.

OUR COMPETITORS RECEIVE:
* Full Access to the UFC Fan Expo both days ($50 value)
* Free Grapplers Quest at UFC Fan Expo Fighter T-Shirt ($40 value)
* Includes $21+ off at-the-door pricing
* Free Limited Edition Grapplers Quest Sticker
* Discount for Friends and Family to Join in YOUR GLORY!

Fighters can Pre-Register Online or At-The-Door, but Tournament Space is limited to 1,500 competitor slots so register today to guarantee your place in history at
http://bit.ly/UFCFanExpo2014

Grapplers Quest Superfight Tournaments start on Saturday, July 5th at 10:30 AM at UFC Fan Expo nicknamed “The Ultimate Grappler Tournaments” will feature Special Rules developed by Brian Cimins featuring two 10 Minute Submission Only Rounds followed by a Six-minute Overtime, if necessary, using Grapplers Quest points. The Finals will be Submission Only with No Time Limit and the UFC Fan Expo will host the LIVE Finals for The Ultimate Grappler Tournaments on Sunday, July 6 starting at 10:30 AM in the Center Rings.

Men’s “Ultimate Grappler” 175 lb. Tournament featuring:
1. Garry Tonon (America’s #1 Grappler)
2. Vitor Henrique Silva Oliveira (#1 IBJJF Black Belt No-Gi Middleweight Champion)
3. Bill Cooper (Defending UFC Fan Expo Superfight Champion)
4. Ronaldo Candido (ATOS, IBJJF World Champion)
5. Arnaldo de Oliveira (ChekMat – IBJJF Champion)
6. Sean Roberts (Black Belt under Ralph Gracie)
7. Kyle Griffin (Robert Drysdale Jiu Jitsu)
8. Enrico Cocco (#1 Southeast RATED Grapplers Quest Champion)
9. Jake Sweeney (Xtreme Couture)
10. Nathan Orchard (Eddie Bravo Black belt)
11. Nathan Mendelsohn (OnTheMat.com)
12. Ross Daniel Keeping (Gracie Humaita Vegas)
13. Lance Glynn (Paragon Black Belt)
14. Joey Hauss (Jean Jacques Machado)
15. Damien Nitken (NAGA advanced division Champion)
16. Benji Silva (Dream Submission only Champion)

Alternates:
Erik Cruz (10th Planet Brown Belt)

16-Woman “Ultimate Grappler” Submission Only Under 145 lbs. Tournament featuring:
1. Nyjah Easton (IBJJF World Champion, Abu Dhabi Pro Champion, European Champion – Team Lloyd Irvin)
2. Amanda Leve (2-Time Grapplers Quest Beast of the East Champion)
3. Rachael Cummins (Pro MMA Fighter and Submission Specialist – Jason Manly)
4. Pati Fontes (Checkmat brown belt)
5. Illa Erickson (Punch Kick Grapple)
6. Chelsea Donnar Branbridge (Atos new* black Belt) (won Worlds 2014 brown belt)
7. Vivian Velez (Pan Am No-Gi champ)
8. Jennifer Perez (Easton Bjj)
9. Colleen Schneider (Ultimate Fighter competitor)
10. Gillian Silver (PGL 135 women’s champion – Catch Wrestler)
11. Jessy Miele (International Martial Arts and Boxing Academy of Connecticut)
12.-16. PROS and ALTERNATES NEEDED: Send Resumes to: Director@Grapplers.com

“The new Grapplers Quest Submission Only Rules for the Superfights and the line-up will have every grappling fan on the edge of their seats. The two-day format will feature the largest crowd in grappling history!” an excited Brian Cimins, President of Grapplers Quest commented. The Superfight Tournaments are sponsored by Built To Fight Industries and http://OnTheMat.com

Tickets for the UFC Fan Expo® are on sale NOW at http://bit.ly/UFCFanExpoTix

The UFC Fan Expo® in July will feature more than 300,000 gross square feet of activities for UFC fans, including meet and greets and autograph sessions with top UFC and STRIKEFORCE® fighters, Q&A sessions with top UFC personalities, as well as grappling tournaments and other special events. More than 100 exhibitors will also be on hand, giving fans the opportunity to purchase and experience some of the best sports and lifestyle products on the market today. This marks the third UFC Fan Expo® held in Las Vegas since its inception in 2009, with additional UFC Fan Expos being held in Boston, London, Toronto and Houston.

For more information on grappling and jiu jitsu tournaments and events worldwide hosted by Grapplers Quest® and to register online, visit: http://GrapplersQuest.com

For more information on UFC Fan Expo® and to purchase tickets, visit www.ufcfanexpo.com. To subscribe to the official UFC Fan Expo® newsletter visit www.ufcfanexpo.com/newsletter. For companies interested in reserving space at this premier event, contact Brian Bernstein, Sales Executive at 203-840-5474 or email bbernstein@ufcfanexpo.com. Don’t wait, space is limited and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
ABOUT GRAPPLERS QUEST: Grapplers Quest is the World’s Largest Submission Grappling & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Tournament Circuit. Grapplers Quest is a world class, family-oriented Martial Arts competition and entertainment experience, challenging our fighters to become the next generation of Mixed Martial Arts champions. The Company produces The World’s Grappling Competition Supershows for the Ground Fighting Sport of Mixed Martial Arts, DVD and VOD PPV Video Production and Distribution, Apparel Development, Design and Production, Tradeshow Sponsorships, Exhibitor Sales, and much more. Home of the World’s Best Submission Fighters Since 1998, original Grapplers Quest athletes have gone on to become 147 UFC or Ultimate Fighter Contestants, 30 ADCC World Champions and 200+ World and Pan American IBJJF Titles. Upcoming events include July 5-6 at UFC Fan Expo, July 26 in New Jersey, October 10-12 in Liverpool, New York and Las Vegas on November 15th. For upcoming events worldwide, visit: http://GrapplersQuest.com