Coventry, England – (March 3, 2022) – BOXXER, the next-generation boxing promotion, today announced the names of the eight British lightweights who will enter the BOXXER Series: Coventry at Coventry SkyDome on Saturday, April 16. 

Airing live and exclusively on Sky Sports, the one-night, eight-man tournament is one of the toughest tests in professional boxing and, alongside significant prize money, opens up major new career opportunities for successful participants.

BOXXER Series tournaments utilize the short-form boxing format (3 x 3-minute rounds), creating fast-paced, explosive contests as boxers seek to score definitive wins and guarantee their passage to the next stage of the tournament.

Events are planned for every major city in the UK as part of BOXXER’s commitment to grassroots boxing in Britain, with BOXXER Series events offering boxers across the country a chance to showcase their skills on the sport’s biggest platform.

Tickets for BOXXER Series: Coventry are on sale now via Boxxer.com and Ticketmaster

BOXXER Series Coventry: Lightweight Tournament

Dylan Cheema (2-0)

Coventry

Tion Gibbs (7-0)

Birmingham

Joe Underwood Hughes (7-0)

Beeston

Scott Melvin (4-0)

Chelmsley Wood

Otis Lookham (1-0)

Nottingham

Brooklyn Tilley (2-0)

Rainham

Rylan Charlton (6-2-1)

Norwich

Shaun Cooper (12-3)

Willenhall

The BOXXER Series launched in November with an event in Liverpool. Tournament winner Cori Gibbs emerged with his undefeated record intact, his largest-ever professional purse and a long-term promotional agreement with BOXXER and Sky Sports Boxing. 

The event was also successful in producing notable follow-on opportunities for several other tournament participants, underlining the benefit BOXXER Series tournaments and the Sky Sports platform bring to British grassroots boxing.

BOXXER Series: Coventry is presented in association with our partners bet365, Everlast, Wow Hydrate and Village Hotels.

Long Island, New York (March 20, 2022) — A sold out Paramount was draped in Ukrainian flags from the rafters to ringside as a prideful OLEH “UKRAINE PITBULL” DOVHUN (now 14-0 5KO’s) made his first defense of his NABA Super Bantamweight title against gritty Belgium bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in an absolutely grueling 10 round main event.

Dovhun garnered the energy of his throngs of Ukraine supporters, starting fast and strong dictating the action. His impressive work rate continued through the first three rounds when a clash of heads caused a cut over his left brow. The fourth round saw the fight turn into a grueling bloody battle of wills. Dovhun’s work rate continued to impress but Eloyan was finding a home for his left hook. In the 6th round, Eloyan buzzed Dovhun with a hard left, but Dovhun returned fire with an eight punch combination. Eloyan (now 7-3 6 KO’s) came on strong in the back half of the battle but it would prove to be too little too late as Dovhun, maintaining an extraordinary work-rate, defended his title and took home a split decision by scores of 96-94 (Dovhun), 97-93 (Eloyan), 97-93 (Dovhun).

In the 8 round co feature, TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (now 12-0 9KO’s) returned to the Paramount after nearly 3 years out of the ring caused by the COIVD-19 hiatus and Tommy John surgery on his elbow due to a torn UCL. James opposed New Haven’ veteran JIMMY “QUIET STORM” WILLIAMS (now 18-7-2 6KO’s) for the vacant ABO North American Super Welterweight Title.

Williams, fresh off his upset over former world champ Yuri Foreman, controlled the pace early forcing James to fight off his back foot. In the second round, a James counter right impressed the crowd even though Williams continued to press the action. James appeared to be shaking off the ring rust while working off the back foot and began to find his timing. Midway through the fourth round James landed a picture perfect counter right over a lingering jab of Williams, blasting Williams into the ropes. Williams was hurt, and James unleashed in the corner, throwing power punches with blazing speed and accuracy in an impressive onslaught. The barrage of punches forced the referee to stop the fight as a wobbling Williams tried to stay upright on very shaky legs. With the TKO victory James was crowned the new ABO North American Champion.

WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT (now 13-1 6KO’s) wasted no time getting back to his winning ways, eating up TRAVIS GAMBARDELLA (now 7-2-2 3KO’s). Toussaint landed a hard right midway through the first round, and then unleashed a vicious seven punch combination while tracking Gambardella into the ropes before landing the final blow causing the referee to step in and stop the action.

Brooklyn’s KAMRON HUMPHREY (now 3-0 2KO’s) bested Bronx native LOUIS MAIETTA (now 1-1-1) via a 2nd round TKO in the scheduled 4 round bout.

ISAAH FLAHERTY (now 3-0 2KO’s) and ANGELO THOMPSON (now 0-1) went to battle over their 4 round super welterweight contest with Flaherty coming out on top by unanimous decision in a fan friendly, entertaining scrap.

“The fans came early and stayed late for another exciting “Rockin’ Fights” at the Paramount” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. “I was humbled and impressed with all the Ukrainian flags and fans. Their unity in traveling to support Oleh Dovhun in his grueling and gutsy title fight defense was truly inspiring. It was also nice to see Tyrone James shine after his surgery with an explosive stoppage in a true step up fight. Thank you to ALL the fighters, their teams, my staff, the Paramount and the fans who continue to impress me every show. Looking forward to be back in June at the Paramount for “Rockin’ Fights” 42!”

ABOUT ROCKIN’ FIGHTS

Created in 2011, the “Rockin’ Fights” series has developed elite boxing talent and has produced current WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion, the “Common Man”, JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (Mastic, Long Island 27-3 21KO’s) and former WBO Super Lightweight World Champion, CHRIS ALGIERI (Huntington, NY 24-3 9KO’S), two of only four Long Island World Champions EVER.

“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
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For more information visit us at www.StarBoxing.com. For 30 years of action packed fights, subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE. Follow along on social media for fight announcements and updates @StarBoxing, and join the conversation using #RockinFights.

PAST RELEASES:
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 ANNOUNCED FOR MARCH 18
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 MAIN EVENT ANNOUNCED: DOVHUN vs SILVA
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 TYRONE JAMES vs JIMMY WILLIAMS ANNOUNCED
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: THE JAMES FAMILY ROOTS
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: ROCKIN’ FIGHTS IS READY TO RUMBLE
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: WEIGH IN RESULTS
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 38: Cletus Seldin vs Luis Flores NABA Title Bout
CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN returned to the Paramount at “Rockin Fights” 38 to face off with late replacement LUIS FLORES in a WAR for the NABA Super Lightweight Title
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!

DERRY, NH (March 20, 2022) — Headlining for only the second time in his young professional boxing career, undefeated lightweight prospect “Saint” Nick Molina took full advantage of his opportunity to fight on top of last night’s “Slugfest” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at New England Sports Center in Derry, New Hampshire.

The 22-year-old Molina (8-0, 2 KOs) fighting out of the same hometown of Lowell (MA) immortalized by “Irish” Micky Ward, patiently out-boxed “The Outlaw” Ryan Venable (2-11) on his way to a 6-round split decision (58-55, 57-56, 56-57).

The game Venable, who was penalized one point for using his shoulder in the opening round, used roughhouse tactics throughout. He started showboating in the final round, trash-talking and throwing exaggerated punches from strange angles, but Molina kept his composure to earn his eighth victory without a loss. The one-point deduction was critical because, if not for the point deduction, the fight would have ended in a draw.

In the co-featured event, Bay State fighters Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (3-2, 2 KOs), of Woburn (MA), and Whitman (MA) middleweight Brian Urday (2-1, 0 KOs) stole the show. They buzzed each other in back-to-back second-round engagements, Baptiste blasted Urday with a powerful right in the third, but the resilient Urday bounced right back with his own attack.

Urday picked up the pace in the fourth, effectively picking his spots, but Baptiste responded in the fifth, snapping Urday’s head back twice in an action-packed round. The two fighters went toe-to-toe in the sixth and final round of the unofficial Fight of the Night. After the lone fight that went the distance, Urday emerged as the 6-round split decision winner in a fight that was as competitive as the judges’ scorecards indicated.

CF.jpg
Brian Urday (L) upset Julien Baptiste

“We had an action-packed, seven-fight card tonight,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti said.

Former New England Heavyweight Champion Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe (7-3-1, 5 KOs), fighting out of Fairfield, Maine, overpowered his Mexican opponent Fabian “El Lobo” Valdez (3-7 (0 KOs) for a second-round win by TKO. Rolfe patiently cut-off the ring and caught Valdez with a few body shots that slowed down his opponent. Rolfe decked Valdez twice in round two and the fight was halted by the referee.

Boston heavyweight Viktor “The Siberian Express” Lobov (1-0, 1 KO) was too big and strong for Andrew Nolan (0-4), flooring his opponent three times en route to a first-round technical knockout victory in his pro memorable debut. Lobov put Nolan down with a stiff right-left combo, then a right cross, and finally a straight right.

New Bedford (MA) light heavyweight Edet “Papito” Mkpanam (6-0, 4 KOs) returned to the ring for the first time in 16 months against pro-debuting Igor Pessoa. Mkpanam worked off the dust rather quickly, after a feeling-out round one, clubbing the awkward fighting Pessoa with an overhand right in the second that decked his foe. The end came in the third when Mkpanam dropped Pessoa again and the fight was stopped by the referee.

In his impressive pro debut, Providence welterweight Michael Vongsavath, Jr. came out firing stiff combinations versus his Rhode Island rival from Tiverton, John Ferrera (0-3), who went down on the canvas from a left hook in round one. A right uppercut dropped Ferrera early in the second round, visibly hurt and unable to beat the count.

Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight prospect Steve Sumpter opened the show with a second-round stoppage of Kynndale Prather (3-12, 1 KO) in a battle of dueling southpaws. Sumpter kept his perfect pro record intact, improving to 5-0 with his fifth knockout in as many fights as a professional, and he closed the show in style with a single shot to his opponent’s head.

“We introduced Viktor Lobov to local fans,” Traietti added. “He has a lot of potential and a great fanbase. Steve Sumpter looked good again and he’ll be stepping up in terms of an opponent in his next fight. The co-feature was an exciting fight. Unfortunately, Julien Baptiste came out on the short end of the decision. And I will soon be announcing a big fight coming up for Justin Rolfe.”

Complete results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

                                             MAIN EVENT – LIGHTWEIGHTS

Nick Molina (8-0, 2 KOs), Lowell, MA

WDEC6 (58-55, 57-56, 56-57)

Ryan Venable (2-11, 0 KOs), Roanoke, VA

CO-FEATURE – MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Brian Urday (2-1, 0 KOs), Whitman, MA

WDEC6 (59-55, 59-55, 56-58)

Julien Baptiste (3-2, 2 KOs), Woburn, MA

HEAVYWEIGHTS (8)

Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 4 KOs), Fairfield, ME

WTKO2 (1:45)

Fabian Valdez (3-7, 0 KOs), Cananea, Sonora, Mexico

Viktor Lobov (1-0, 1 KO), Boston, MA

WTKO1 (1:37)

Andrew Nolan (0-4), Franklin, NY

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Edet Mkpanam (6-0, 5 KOs), New Bedford, MA

WTKO3 (1:14)

Igor Pessoa (0-1), Somerville, MA

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Steve Sumpter (5-0, 5 KOs), Pittsfield, MA

WKO2 (0:41)

Kynndale Prather (3-12, 1 KO), Kansas City, KS

WELTERWEIGHTS

Michael Vongsavath, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), Providence, RI

WKO2 (0:59)

John Ferrara (0-3), Tiverton, RI

Granite Chin Promotions, in association with Cappiello Boxing Promotions and Shearns Boxing Promotions, returns May 7th with “Hometown Royalty” at Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts (85 Cottage St.). Mike Ohan, Ryan Kielczweski, Mkanam, Dave Ribeiro and Damon Towns are all scheduled to be in action

European welterweight champion David Avanesyan made an emphatic statement in a stunning fifth defence of his EBU belt at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday night.

His previously unbeaten opponent Oskari Metz had no answers once Avanesyan got to work and the Finn never recovered from a brutal knockdown and was finally saved from himself by the referee with just two minutes on the clock.

The champion, 24-4-1, will now await a ruling from the WBC – where he is ranked No.2 – over his passage to a shot at the champion Errol Spence jr.

In the co-main event, Hamzah Sheeraz was also making statements and putting down a marker in a new division as he secured the WBC International Silver title with a second round knockout of Jez Smith.

Smith promised to bring the heat but was brutally picked off by the unbeaten Sheeraz, now 15-0 (11 KOs).

A sweet left hook planted Smith on the canvas in round one as Sheeraz asserted authority in his first fight at middleweight. He was down again at the beginning of the second and failed to beat the count just as his trainer Josh Burnham rightly threw in the towel.

Royston Barney-Smith delivered a sparkling performance on debut against Adan Martinez, who was rocked on a number occasions across the first two rounds by the accuracy of Barney-Smith’s punches.

The 18-year-old former two-time European champion as an amateur showed more than enough to suggest he will be one to watch as he progresses through the ranks. He punches clean and hard, doesn’t waste shots and employs plenty of variety in his work.

Martinez was a stubborn and ideal opponent who seemed to view getting through the four rounds as a personal triumph. Referee Lee Every scored the fight 40-36 and Royston Barney-Smith is up and running.

Sam Noakes defended his WBC International Silver lightweight title with a ninth straight stoppage to edge closer to his goal of a perfect 10.

After three one-sided rounds the Italian Vincenzo Finiello was plonked to the canvas in the fourth by a peach of an uppercut that Finiello failed to recover from. Mark Lyson waved it off after 1min 54secs of the round.

Dennis McCann collected the first belt of his professional career by winning the WBO World Youth bantamweight title after defeating Charles Tondo over eight tough rounds.

The iBox Gym trained youngster started on fire with all his usual spite and swagger and looked like he could be in for an early night, but Tondo responded and started to match fire with fire.

Tondo came back into it across rounds four and five, tagging McCann several times and punishing any indecision on the part of the 21-year-old. The Tanzanian was growing in confidence after weathering the early storm and the pair engaged in a fiery shootout at the end of the sixth when McCann attempted to regain the momentum.

McCann re-established some sort of control in the seventh as Tondo was put under a huge assault and looked, for the first time like he could be on the brink and showing signs of distress.

The Maidstone Menace started to enjoy himself in the final round and was duly declared the victor by a 79-73 scoreline on all three cards.

Mark Chamberlain notched up the biggest win of his career to reach 10-0, forcing the retirement in the corner of Jeff Ofori after five rounds largely dominated by the Waterlooville lightweight.

Chamberlain made all the running and forced Ofori onto the back foot, whether he wanted to be or not. The 23-year-old is now firmly in the picture for significant title action and a win such as this suggests he is the real deal and one to watch at the weight.

Masood Abdulah continued his short reign of terror at super featherweight. His six rounder against
Sandeep Singh Bhatti followed a pattern of the Islington man using the Indian’s face for target practice, but the hardy Bhatti was game as they come and was dangerous with lunging counters.

Abdulah made it four stoppages out of four when referee Mark Lyson had seen Bhatti take more than enough and waved it off after 1min 20sec of the final round.

Henry Turner, the super stylish super lightweight, scored his first stoppage victory to take himself to 7-0, putting Ivan Njesac down in the third before referee Lee Every stepped in to end proceedings after 2 mins 18 secs of the round.

In the opening bouts of the evening, welterweight Khalid Ali made it to 2-0 with a 40-36 points victory over Josue Bendana, with super lightweight hope Sonny Liston Ali clocking up a third win in the professional ranks via a 60-52 margin. His opponent Lee Glover was floored in the first and final round.

NEW YORK–Edgar Berlanga won a 10-round unanimous decision over Steve Rolls in what was a lackluster fight in front of a sold out crowd at The Hulu Theater inside of Madison Square Garden of 5,158.

Rolls came out moving and noy wanting to get into harms way of any big shots. In round four, Berlanga was cut over his left eye from what could have been an accidental headbutt. Berlanga came forward the whole night and landed the harder shots. Rolls was able to get in some counters. The packed crowd was in anticipation of a explosive performance form Berlanga, who was headlining for the first time. The crowd size bodes well for Berlanga as he looks to be a big attraction, especially in the New York region.

Berlanga landed 120 of 314 punches; Rolls was 123 of 447.

Berlanga, 167.4 lbs of Brooklyn won by scores of 97-93 twice and 96-94 and is now 19-0. Rolls, 167.8 lbs of Toronto, ONT, CAN is 21-2.

Edgar Berlanga

“You could tell that he was fighting scared. Every time I reach in or throw something, he’d pull back and was running the whole fight.”

“I was looking for the big shot. My corner was telling me to use the jab. I’m just happy we got the victory and I’m moving forward.”

“He was a scared fighter. It’s tough to land your shots when he’s scared, especially moving back. When he fought GGG, he brought it to GGG. With me, he tried to use that running tactic.”

Bob Arum (Top Rank Chairman)

“Edgar Berlanga fought a tough, defensive fighter, and he got some valuable rounds in tonight. As you saw from the sold-out crowd, the kid is a star. There are many more big nights to come.”

Zayas Decisions Lavallais

Good looking 19 year-old Xander Zayas literally pounded out a eight-round unanimous decision over iron-chinned Quincy Lavallais in a junior middleweight bout,

In round two, Bauza kept Lavallais on the ropes for much of the round and landed barrages of punches. Zayas continued to beat up Lavallais with thudding body punches that were followed by flush shots on his head. Lavallais showed a tremendous chin.

Before round seven, the ringside doctor took a look at Lavallais. Lavalais was bale to make it to the final bell, but the young Puerto Rican Phenom won by scores of 80-71 and 80-72 twice.

Zayas landed 252 of 573 punches; Lavallais was 66 of 398.

Zayas, 152.6 lbs of San Juan, PR is 13-0. Lavallais, 152.6 lbs of Kenner, LA is 12-3-1.

“I need this type of experience. Eight rounds against a tough opponent will only help me as I move forward in my career.”

“I want to dedicate this fight to my trainer, Javiel Centeno. He showed his love and commitment after what he went through yesterday.”

• Centeno has sciatica and had to go to the hospital Friday evening.

Bauza Decisions Luis

John Bauza remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Tony Luis in a junior welterweight bout.

Bauza landed 109 of 329 punches; Luis was 90 of 449.

Bauza, 140.2 lbs of Coamo, PR won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 17-0. Luis, 140.8 lbs of Cornwall, ONT, CAN is now 29-5.

Jahi Tucker remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Tracey McGruder in a welterweight fight.

Tucker landed 131 of 462 punches; McGruder was 118 of 409.

Tucker, 147.8 lbs of Deer Park, NY won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice, and is now 7-0. McGruder, 147.8 lbs of Rochester, NY is 6-2.

Henry Lebron stopped Josec Ruiz in round seven of a scheduled eight-round junior lightweight bout.

In round seven, Lebron wobbled Ruiz into the corner from combination and the fight was stopped at 2:23.

Lebron, 130.6 lbs of Puerto Rico is 15-0 with 10 knockouts. Ruiz, 130.4 lbs of Limon, HON is 23-6-3.

Bruce Carrington scored an explosive fifth round stoppage over Yueuri Andujar in a scheduled six-round junior lightweight bout.

In round three, Andujar was cut above the right eye. Both guys landed some hard combinations with Carrington getting the better of the action. In round five, Andujar came out guns-a-blazing, but he ate a vicious right-left combination that put Andujar flat on his back for several minutes and the fight was stopped at 51 seconds.

Carrington, 129.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 3-0 with two knockouts. Andujar, 129.6 lbs of San Cristobal, DR is 5-5-1.

Carrington said, “I want to thank Brownsville and all of Brooklyn for coming out to support me. Fighting as a pro at Madison Square Garden was a dream come true. This is only the beginning.”

Armani Almestica stopped Luis Valentin Portalatin in round three of their scheduled four-round junior welterweight bout.

Almestica battered Partaltin until the bout was stopped at 1:57.

Almestica, 139.2 lbs of Orlando, FLA is 5-0 with five knockouts. Portalatin, 140.2 lbs of Toa Alta, PR is 3-4.

Kelvin Davis stopped Phillip Carmouche in the opening round of their four-round junior welterweight bout.

Davis dropped Carmouche with a straight left. Davis finished things off with a hard left that drove Carmouche to the ropes and the fight was stopped as he fell again at 1:17

Davis, 143.6 lbs of Norfolk, VA is 4-0 with three knockouts. Carmouche, 144.8 lbs of Las Vegas, NV is 2-3.

Alexis Rocha stopped Blair Cobbs in a welterweight battle at the Galen Center in Los Angeles.

In round eight, Rocha dropped Cobbs with a hard right to the bottom the chin. In round nine, Rocha had Cobbs in trouble with body shots and then he landed some chopping lefts. A big uppercut drove Cobbs to the ropes. Rocha was relentless until the bout was stopped at 44 seconds.

Rocha – Cobbs was bumped up to the main event after Vergil Ortiz fell ill for his bout with Michael McKinson.

Rocha, 146.8 lbs of Santa Ana, CA is 19-1 with 13 knockouts. Cobbs, 145.6 lbs of Hollywood, CA is 15-1-1.

McKinson Decisions Martin

Michael McKinson won a 10-round unanimous decision over late-replacement Alex Martin in a welterweight fight.

McKinson, 146 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG won by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is now 22-0. Martin, 147 lbs ofChicago, IL is 17-4.

Bektemir Melikuziev stopped David Zegarra in round two of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

In round two, Melikuziev landed a perfect left to the body that sent Zegarra in pain to a knee and he did not beat the 10-count at 30 seconds.

Melikuziev, 171.6 lbs of Uzbekistan is now 9-1 with seven knockouts. Zegarra, 172 lbs of Lima, PER is 34-8.

Sanchez Decisions Munera

Evan Sanchez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Alejandro Munera in a middleweight fight.

In round four, Sanchez dropped Munera with a right hook.

Sanchez, 149.8 lbs of Parlier, CA won by scores of 60-53 on all cards and is now 11-0. Munera, 147.6 lbs of Munera, COL is 6-5-4.

Alex Rincon stopped Luis Sanchez in round two of a scheduled eight-round middleweight bout.

In round two, Rincon dropped Sanchez with a right. Sanchez wobbled to his feet, but was able to continue…for a few seconds, as Rincon landed another big right that sent Sanchez down again, and the fight was stopped at 1:44

Rincon, 154.6 lbs of Dallas, TX is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Sanchez, 155 lbs of San Juan, PR is 9-3.

John Ramirez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Roberto Pucheta in a bantamweight fight.

In round two, Pucheta had to bleed from the nose.

Ramirez, 117.2 lbs of Los Angeles, CA won by scores of and is now 9-0. Pucheta, 117 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 10-21-3.

Alejandro Reyes won a six-round unanimous decision over Daniel Evangelista Jr. in a junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Evangelista was deducted a point for hitting behind the head. In round three, Reyes dropped Evangelista with two right hands to the head.

Reyes, 139.6 lbs of Mexicali, MEX won by scores of 60-51 on all cards and is now 7-0. Evangelista, 139.6 lbs of Mexico City is 20-13-2.

Miguel Gaona made extremely quick work over Gilberto Aguilar in a rematch in a scheduled four-roun junior welterweight clash.

Gaona dropped Aguilar with a body shot in the opening seconds, and Aguilar did not get up and the fight was over at 30 seconds.

Gaona, 139.6 lbs of El Sereno, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Aguilar, 140 lbs of Mexico City is 0-5.

Dalis Kaleiopu stopped Manuel Lara in the fourth and final round of their lightweight bout.

In round one, Kaleiopu dropped Lara with a right to the head. Later in the round, Lara went down from a body shot.

In round four, it was a three-punch combination to the head that dropped Lara to his knees and the bout was stopped at 2:15.

Kaleiopu, 132.4 lbs of Waianae, HA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Lara, 134.2 lbs of Celaya, MEX is 2-8.

Ramla Ali remained undefeated with 2nd round stoppage over Shelly Barnett in a scheduled eight-round super bantamweight fight.

In round one, Ali landed a hard right to the face that sent Barnett to the canvas. A moment later, another right put Barnett down again. In round two, Ali landed a big combination that forced a referee stoppage at 1:23.

Ali, 122.8 lbs of London, ENG is 5-0 with one knockout. Barnett, 122.8 lbs of Toronto, CAN is 5-7-2.

New York, NY (March 19, 2022)-Tonight, Split-T Management lightweight prospect Dalis Kaleiopu will look to stay undefeated when he takes on Manuel Lara in a four-round bout at The Galen Center in Los Angeles.

Kaleiopu, 23 years-old of Waianae, Hawaii is 1-0 with one knockout as he looks to build upon his pro debut when he took out Eduardo Sanchez in three rounds on February 13, 2021 in Indio, California.

Lara of Ciudad, Mexico is 2-7 and will be facing his fifth undefeated opponent.

Kaleiopu, 21 years-old won the Western Elite championships in 2018, and in the same year, Kaleiopu was a National Championship runner-up.

Kaleiopu was 132.4 lbs at Friday’s weigh-in, while Lara was 134.2

Kaleiopu is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

Pride Park Stadium, home of Derby County Football Club, will stage the WBO Interim Super Middleweight world title clash between Zach Parker and the unbeaten two-weight world champion Demetrius Andrade on Saturday, 21st May 2022, live on BT Sport.

In what will be a huge occasion for knockout artist Parker 22-0 (16 KOs) and the city of Derby, the lifelong fan of the Rams will get to live out his dream of fighting on the pitch of his local football club.

With the clubs financial struggles this season being well known, Queensberry Promotions knew there was a responsibility to help, so £10 from each ticket sold goes directly back to the club to support the future of DCFC. 

Since teaming up with Frank Warren and Queensberry, the 27-year-old has clocked up three spectacular and emphatic wins to reinforce his position as No.1 contender in the WBO rankings.

Parker wowed BT Sport viewers with brutal knockouts of Vaughn Alexander, Sherzod Khusanov and Marcus Morrison. None of the three men had previously been stopped.

“This is a dream come true,” said Parker. “As a fighter you have various hopes when you start out in the sport. I think every one of us dreams of headlining a show at the football team you support, I don’t think it’s fully sunk in yet to be honest. 

“It will be incredible to walk-out and see the stadium packed with fans, I can’t wait. Demetrius is a great champion and props to him for coming over here but I know I have the beating of him, I’m too big for him. We’ll see on the 21st, but someone’s ‘0’ has got to go!”

Andrade, 34, widely known as Boo Boo, began his world championship reign at super welterweight with victory over Vanes Martirosyan in 2013. The WBO title was defended on four occasions, including a stoppage victory over Britain’s Brian Rose in 2014.

His middleweight crusade began in 2018 when he won the vacant WBO title by virtue of a points verdict over Walter Kautondokwa. His title at 160lbs has been defended five times and the super-slick southpaw remains champion at the weight. Notable wins at middleweight have come over Liam Williams and the Irishmen Luke Keeler and Jason Quigley.

“There can be no questioning the pedigree of Demetrius Andrade,” said promoter Frank Warren. “It is why we went above and beyond to win the purse bid to give our man every crucial advantage.

“It is going to be such a special night on 21st May and I feel sure the Derby public will come out in force to roar Zach on in the biggest fight of his career. 

“When we teamed up with Zach he revealed his dream of fighting at Pride Park – where he is a dedicated supporter of his home team – and we set about making his dream become a reality. Added to that, the £10 going to the club is something I hope inspires the fans to come and support Zach and DCFC in even larger numbers than we predict.

“We have done this before in recent years for Josh Warrington in Leeds and Carl Frampton in Belfast and both were successful on magical nights. I see no reason at all why Zach cannot experience similar joy.

“Andrade is top-drawer and we know this, but he is moving up a weight to super middle, which is natural territory for Zach and he is a monster at the weight. Other British and Irish fighters have struggled to fathom out Andrade, but Zach is the complete package. Not only does he carry a huge punch, but he is also tall and technical with an excellent boxing brain.

“It all adds up to a cracking fight and a huge night for Derby. I would like to extend my thanks to everyone at the club who have helped to make this happen.”

Tickets for Zach Parker vs Demetrius Andrade at Pride Park on Saturday, 21st May go on sale at 11am on Thursday, 31st March. 

Fans are advised to sign-up for Ticket Alerts at frankwarren.com to receive the ticket link directly to their inboxes.

A full undercard will be announced in due course. 

Please Note: This event is subject to contract and licence approval.

By Norm Frauenheim-

It’s a busy schedule. Ambitious, too.

Showtime announced nine cards over five months on a spring-to-summer series that includes 21 unbeaten fighters, seven championship fights and a lot of the same old questions.

The ambition is to get some of the answers, never simple in a balkanized business plagued by noisy feuds and defined by its inherent divisiveness.

Search for logic at your own peril.

But that’s what Stephen Espinoza, Showtime President of Sports and Programming, is seeking.

Espinoza wants to give fans “a sense of logic,’’ he said Tuesday in announcing a schedule that kicks off next week Saturday (March 26) with legend Kostya Tszyu’s son Tim (20-0, 15 KOs) against former U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha (22-2-1, 11 KOs) in a junior-middleweight fight at The Armory in Minneapolis      

Boxing and logic don’t belong in the same sentence. Not even in the same universe. Together, they create a classic oxymoron. Put it this way: Peace on earth is more likely than logic in boxing. If there was any, we would have already seen Terence Crawford-versus-Errol Spence Jr. and Canelo Alvarez-versus-David Benavidez.

But give Espinoza credit, or at least some sympathy. The logic he hopes to find will be a product of organization. In other words, he hopes fans can follow a telecast schedule like some sort of blueprint, a road map to title fights.

Under today’s chaos-as-usual model, title fights between Belt Holder and Who’s He just seem to appear, then vanish. Too many fighters have only a record and no name recognition. Their path to a title fight is a mystery. It hard to follow, which is a sure way to lose fans. There’s no way for them to sustain interest.

Trouble is, the messy web is there in large part because of the feuding   promotional entities and dizzy array of acronyms – all with sanctioning fees and mandatories. It’d be nice if it could be cleaned up and sorted out. But the business only knows chaos. There’s no simple tournament-like bracket to sum it all up.

At least, somebody is trying. But Espinoza’s mission looks quixotic. From this corner, logic is the longest of long shots.

At this point, a Crawford fight against Spence looks to be as elusive as ever. Still, there will be plenty of talk about it before Showtime’s biggest card, an interesting pay-per-view bout on April 16 between Spence and Yordenis Ugas on the Cowboys home field in Arlington, Tex. Ugas emerged with a stunning upset of Manny Pacquiao in August. Ugas was a late stand-in for Spence, who suffered an eye injury.

There are questions about Spence. We just haven’t seen enough of him since his scary auto accident in October 2019. Ugas might prove to be better than anybody thought. He also might be emboldened by his victory over Pacquiao. Maybe, Ugas has a chance at springing another upset. Whoever the winner, however, there’s still no clear path to logic, which is another way of saying Crawford, still a promotional free agent.

Another intriguing bout on the Showtime card involves David Benavidez on May 21 in his second straight appearance in hometown Phoenix. He faces faded David Lemieux. It promises to be another moment in evolution of Benavidez, still only 25 years old. His body is growing. So is his fan base. But his campaign to fight Canelo has been going nowhere. Don’t look for that to change.

Canelo has a DAZN deal, first to fight Russian light-heavyweight Dmitry Bivol on May 7 in a step that could lead to a third bout with Gennadiy Golovkin, who first has to beat Ryota Murata in Japan.

“Obviously, David Benavidez is angling for the biggest fight,’’ Espinoza said. “But this is the next best thing.’’

The next best thing is only good if it leads to the fights that frustrated fans want. There’s plenty to like about Showtime’s schedule. There’s a heavy investment in the junior-middleweights, first with Tim Tzsyu and Gausha. Then there’s a rematch of Jermell Charlo and Brian Castano on May 14 in southern California at a site to be determined.

But logic? For now, that’s still elusive as ever.

New York, NY (March 18, 2022)–Undefeated junior welterweight John Baiza will continue to climb up the competition as he takes on tough veteran Tony Luis as part of an ESPN televised card at 10 PM ET on Saturday night at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Bauza of North Bergen, New Jersey via Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, has a record of 16-0 with seven knockouts. The 23 year-old Bauza, who is managed by Split-T Management Bauza turned professional on April 23, 2016 with a 1st round stoppage over LeRoy Padilla in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

Bauza is coming off an explosive performance as he took apart previously undefeated Michael Williams in four-rounds at Madison Square Garden on December 11th.

In that bout, Bauza clocked Williams with an overhand left that sent him to the deck in the 2nd round. Williams kept kneeling on the canvas in an effort to slow down Bauza’s attack. In round four, Bauza dropped Williams three times. The first came from a combination on the ropes. The 2nd came from a perfect left. Bauza finished the fight with a perfect straight left to the face and the fight was stopped at 2:18.

Luis of Cornwall, Ontario, Canada is 29-4 with 10 knockouts. The 34 year-old Luis is a former WBC Continental Americas champion who also fought for the WBA Interim Lightweight title. Luis has wins over Adrian Verdugo (13-1-1), Wanzell Ellison (11-0-1), Karl Dargan (17-0), Christian Uruzquieta (14-2-1), Jose Nunez Rodriguez (17-4-1), Cam O’Connell (15-0-1), Jovanni Straffon (14-2-1). Luis dropped his last bout to undefeated Arnold Barboza on August 29, 2020 in Las Vegas.

At Friday’s weigh-in, Bauza was 140.2 lbs. Luis was 140.8 lbs.

Long Island, New York (March 18, 2022) – It’s officially fight night at The Paramount! The full “Rockin’ Fights” 41 five fight card is charged up and ready to rumble. Doors will open at 7PM ET and fists will fly at 7:45PM ET. A packed house is expected, so if you do not have your tickets yet, do no wait any longer.

If you miss out on tickets, or cannot make it to The Paramount Star Boxing has you covered! Pre-order the entire “Rockin’ Fights” 41 five-fight card via FITE.TV by clicking HERE. The stream will begin at 7:45 PM ET.

WATCH LIVE ON FITE.TV:
FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on the www.FITE.TV website, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream all “Rockin’ Fights” 41 bouts and be available for just $19.99 or by subscribing to FITE+. Check availability in your area by going to the FITE.tv website.

“Rockin’ Fights” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

TICKETS:
Tickets to #RockinFights at The Paramount are now available at ticketmaster.com or by visiting www.starboxing.com. Tickets start at $50. Purchase your tickets, HERE.

“Rockin’ Fights” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on March 18, 2022 at the Paramount in Long Island, NY.
Bouts subject to change
“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 41 TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: TONIGHT, FRIDAY, MARCH 18 AT THE PARAMOUNT
ABOUT ROCKIN’ FIGHTS

Created in 2011, the “Rockin’ Fights” series has developed elite boxing talent and has produced current WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion, the “Common Man”, JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (Mastic, Long Island 27-3 21KO’s) and former WBO Super Lightweight World Champion, CHRIS ALGIERI (Huntington, NY 24-3 9KO’S), two of only four Long Island World Champions EVER.

“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
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For more information visit us at www.StarBoxing.com. For 30 years of action packed fights, subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE. Follow along on social media for fight announcements and updates @StarBoxing, and join the conversation using #RockinFights.

PAST RELEASES:
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 ANNOUNCED FOR MARCH 18
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 MAIN EVENT ANNOUNCED: DOVHUN vs SILVA
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 TYRONE JAMES vs JIMMY WILLIAMS ANNOUNCED
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: THE JAMES FAMILY ROOTS
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: ROCKIN’ FIGHTS IS READY TO RUMBLE
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: WEIGH IN RESULTS
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 38: Cletus Seldin vs Luis Flores NABA Title Bout
CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN returned to the Paramount at “Rockin Fights” 38 to face off with late replacement LUIS FLORES in a WAR for the NABA Super Lightweight Title
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!

 •  Edgar Berlanga 167.4 vs. Steve Rolls 167.8
(Berlanga’s NABO Super Middleweight Title— 10 Rounds)

•   Xander Zayas 152.6 lbs vs. Quincy LaVallais 152.6 lbs 
(Junior Middleweight— 8 Rounds)

   •    John Bauza 140.2 lbs vs. Tony Luis 140.8 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight— 8 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT)

   •    Jahi Tucker 147.8 lbs vs. Tracey McGruder 147.8 lbs
 (Welterweight— 6 Rounds)

   •     Henry Lebron 130.6 lbs vs. Josec Ruiz 130.4 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

   •       Bruce Carrington 129.8 lbs vs. Yeuri Andujar 129.6 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

   •      Armani Almestica 139.2 lbs vs. Luis Valentin Portalatin 140.2 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 4 Rounds)

   •      Kelvin Davis 143.6 lbs vs. Phillip Carmouche 144.8 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 4 Rounds)

LAS VEGAS – March 18, 2022 – Top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will square off for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features former super welterweight world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison taking on highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super welterweight Kevin Salgado battling Bryant Perrella in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

The stacked tripleheader of 154-pound showdowns is topped by two of the division’s hottest young stars, as the streaking Lubin looks to stamp his ticket to a second world title opportunity while the fast-rising Fundora brings his signature all-action style into the toughest contest of his career to date. The victor will be in position to potentially face the winner of the undisputed 154-pound championship rematch between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño, which takes place Saturday, May 14 on SHOWTIME.

“There are few matchups more tantalizing in the loaded super welterweight division than Erickson Lubin vs. Sebastian Fundora,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Lubin has shown significant improvement since his first world title fight and can add another impressive win to his resume on April 9. The towering Fundora has also made a major mark on the division in his young career, capturing the imagination of fans with his impressive stature and aggressive style. With two other 154-pound showdowns on the card, fans can expect the drama and excitement that this weight class has delivered again and again over recent years to continue live on SHOWTIME from Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.”

The 26-year-old Lubin (24-1, 17 KOs) has put together an impressive six-bout winning streak since a loss to unified 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo in 2017. In his most recent outing, he knocked out former unified champion Jeison Rosario in June 2021. Prior to the Rosario fight, Lubin’s run included becoming the first person to stop former champion Ishe Smith and unanimous decision victories over Terrell Gausha and Nathaniel Gallimore. A native of Orlando, Fla., Lubin is trained by acclaimed coach Kevin Cunningham as he continues his quest toward another title opportunity. After a stellar amateur career, Lubin turned pro at 18 years old in 2013. He captured the attention of the boxing community at 19 when he became one of the youngest prospects to ever appear on the developmental series SHOBOX: The New Generation and soon after was named “Prospect Of The Year” by ESPN and Ring Magazine in 2016.

“This is my chance to show the world that I’m the best fighter in the division,” said Lubin. “This will separate me from all of the contenders I’ve been beating. I’ve been doing the champion’s job taking out all the contenders, so there’s no doubt in my mind that I will be running the division really soon. I have a really tall fighter in front of me in Sebastian Fundora, but I know how to make adjustments. We’ve brought in the right sparring and have prepared exactly how we’re supposed to. Everyone should definitely tune in, because it’s ‘Hammer Time’ on SHOWTIME once again.”

Fundora (18-0-1, 12 KOs) continues to rise up the super welterweight ranks and added his two most impressive wins to date in 2021. Fundora kicked off the year in May by stopping the rugged veteran Jorge Cota in four rounds, before defeating then unbeaten Sergio Garcia by unanimous decision in December. The six-foot-six brawler has reached this point by showing off the skills of a rugged boxer who is more comfortable fighting on the inside than most. Born in West Palm Beach, Fla. to his Mexican mother and Cuban father and trainer, Freddy – both boxers – the 24-year-old now lives and trains in Coachella, Calif.

“We’ve been working extremely hard during this camp to be 100% coming into battle,” said Fundora, whose all-action style has been compared to former world champion Antonio Margarito. “We’re prepared for any circumstances that should arise and we’re expecting a very professional and well prepared Lubin on April 9, nothing less. Our hard work and laser focus will lead us to victory in this fight. This is my chance to show everyone the first steps of what it means to be a champion.”

The pride of Detroit, Mich., Harrison (28-3-1, 21 KOs) spent his early boxing career under the tutelage of the late Emanuel Steward in the legendary Kronk Gym. As a professional, the 31-year-old is still considered one of the most skilled fighters in the sport despite coming up short in his first two attempts at a world title. The third time was the charm for Harrison, who shocked the boxing world in December 2018 by outpointing long-time world champion Jermell Charlo to earn the WBC title. Their rematch one year later ranks among the best fights of 2019. Harrison and Charlo fought on even terms until Charlo stopped him in the eleventh round to regain the belt. Harrison returned to the ring for the first time since that fight in April 2021, fighting Bryant Perrella to a draw.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and display my skills for the fans once again,” said Harrison. “Garcia knows everything about me, but I only know a little bit about him. So he has the advantage, but that’s just how I like it. Don’t miss this fight on April 9!”

The 29-year-old Garcia (33-1, 14 KOs) made his U.S. debut in December 2021, dropping a competitive decision against top contender Sebastian Fundora. Fighting out of Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain, Garcia has competed professionally since 2012. He ascended the rankings by traveling to the U.K. to defeat then unbeaten Ted Cheeseman on his home soil in 2019 and followed that up with a triumph over veteran contender Sergey Rabchenko. Garcia has added three victories since then, including 2020 wins over Pablo Mendoza and Gregory Trenel.

“I am very grateful to my team for this great opportunity to fight in Las Vegas against a former world champion,” said Garcia. “I’m looking forward to stepping into the ring. Harrison is a great champion and one of the best fighters in the division. But the future of my family is on the line in this fight and I want to win by knockout. My hope is that Sebastian Fundora wins his fight and then we can meet again for a rematch.”

A native of Mexico City, Salgado (14-0, 9 KOs) is the younger brother of former super featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado and now fights out of San Antonio, Texas as he nears his U.S. debut on April 9. The 24-year-old turned pro in late 2016 and delivered knockouts in six of his first nine outings. After scoring three-straight knockouts between September 2019 and February 2021, Salgado returned to the ring in October to defeat Ricardo Banuelos Cernas by unanimous decision. The triumph marked Salgado’s first 10-round fight, as he was able to sweep the cards according to all three judges.

“I’m facing a good opponent and I expect us to give the fans a great fight,” said Salgado. “I am in excellent condition and focused on my job in the ring on April 9. This is my opportunity to open the eyes of everyone in the division and show that there’s a new contender ready to come for the top spot. Just like my brother, I will become a world champion.”

The 32-year-old Perrella (17-3-1, 14 KOs) began boxing at age 15, amassing an impressive 70-9 amateur record before turning pro in 2012. Fighting out of Fort Myers, Fla, Perrella rose quickly through the pro ranks, stopping 13 of his first 14 opponents, including a second-round TKO over previously unbeaten David Grayton in June 2016. Three months later, he suffered his first pro defeat against current welterweight world champion Yordenis Ugas. Perella bounced back with victories over Breidis Prescott and Domonique Dolton before debuting at 154 pounds in April 2021. He challenged former champion Tony Harrison in his first super welterweight fight and earned a split-draw in their 12-round contest.

“I know that I’m facing a young fighter coming for his American dream on April 9,” said Perrella. “He’s hungry, undefeated and he doesn’t believe that he can be beat. But he’s never been in the ring with someone like me before. Not in sparring, not in a real fight. I’m going to show him the difference between us when that bell rings.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #LubinFundora, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

LAS VEGAS (March 18, 2022) – Unbeaten rising star Tim Tszyu held a media workout in Las Vegas Thursday as he nears his much anticipated U.S. debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha taking place Saturday, March 26 live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The son of Hall of Famer Kostya, Tszyu arrived stateside last Saturday from his native Australia to finish training camp in Las Vegas before heading to Minneapolis. After amassing a 20-0 record with 15 knockouts, Tszyu looks to move himself one step closer to a title shot with an emphatic victory on March 26.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, No Limit Boxing and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Here is what Tszyu and his trainer, Igor Goloubev, had to say Thursday from Left Right Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

TIM TSZYU

“We’ve done a few camps here in Las Vegas before so we’re familiar with the terrain out here. It’s not too far to then go to Minneapolis, but it’s a lot warmer here is Las Vegas, so I’m glad I came here first. Adjusting to the time difference was tough at first but I’ve definitely recovered. By the time I arrived in Las Vegas, it was just about sharpening everything up.

“I’m coming to fight and I’m coming to win. I’m not here to ‘tip-tap’. If that means going for the knockout, I’ll go for it right away. I’m not here to out-jab someone and win on the scorecards. From the first second when the fight starts, my objective is to take him out. Every second of every round, I’m going to be in front of my opponent’s face.

“This has been a long time in the making. I’ve been keen on making my debut here ever since I beat Jeff Horn [August 2020]. It’s good to finally be here and I’m quite excited to be on this platform. This is a real opportunity for me.

“My dad hasn’t talked to me too much about what to expect fighting in the U.S. Mostly he just reminds me to stay ready, which I always am. I’m a professional and I’m fighting nonstop. I don’t take rests or honeymoons like some of these other fighters.

“It’s a big deal for me to be in this position headlining on SHOWTIME. You dream of it as a kid, and now for it to actually be happening, it’s unreal. I’m the first Australian who’s had their U.S. debut as a headline act, having not even won a world title yet. It shows that what we’ve done so far is pretty good for the moment. We’re here to make statements.

“This is going to be an interesting fight. I’m quite interested to see what he’s going to bring. Gausha has the tools to win. He’s got great skills and quick hands and a good variety of punches. He does the simple things very well. I like those types of styles. I’ve sparred guys like that in the U.S. and it’s a fun style to fight against.

“I don’t look particularly big or strong, but when I get in the ring, I give off that dominance that says ‘this is my ring. This is what I do and you’re coming onto my stage’. I present that dominance straight away and let everyone know.

Tszyu on the Jermell Charlo vs. Brian Castaño 154-pound title rematch taking place May 14 on SHOWTIME”

“Charlo is a cautious fighter with power in both hands. He wobbled Castaño a few times. Charlo waits to land that perfect shot and that’s why Castano’s output wasn’t too high in that fight. I thought Castaño fought a great fight and out worked him. Charlo didn’t know what to do at times. I think it’s either going to be Castaño by decision or Charlo by knockout in the rematch.

“I’m coming for everyone in the division. I’m coming for the belts. You have to have confidence in yourself. I believe that I defeat either Charlo or Castaño. I wouldn’t be in the sport if I didn’t believe that. I’d take those guys to places they’ve never been and that’s all that matters to me.”

IGOR GOLOUBEV, Tszyu’s Trainer

“Tim is going to make adjustments, like he always does, based off what Gausha brings in the first round. Tim is an absolute pressure fighter. He’s going to be right on top of Gausha from the start. There’s going to be no rest and nowhere for him to go. This is going to be fought on the inside.

“Gausha is a crafty fighter. He’s got a good style from his amateur background and he’s also got strong legs and upper body. We’ve seen footage of him and we know that he can punch, that he’ll move and that he throws lots of jabs. He’s all-around a very good fighter.”

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ABOUT TSZYU VS. GAUSHA
Tszyu vs. Gausha will see top super welterweight contender and rising star Tim Tszyu make his long-awaited U.S. debut when he takes on U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in a 12-round showdown that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 26 from The Armory in Minneapolis in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising undefeated lightweight contender Michel Rivera dueling fellow unbeaten Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting super lightweight contender Elvis Rodríguez facing Juan José Velasco in the 10-round telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuGausha, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

THE 6ft 7″ CRUISERWEIGHT prospect Tommy Fletcher is joining the professional ranks and has signed promotional terms with Frank Warren and Queensberry.

The big-punching 20-year-old, who calls himself the ‘Norfolk Nightmare’, now trains with Mark Tibbs in Rainham, Essex having bludgeoned his way through his amateur experiences.

He views Queensberry as the only place to be for top young prospects to progress in the sport.

“I think Frank is the best in the business for young fighters. He is definitely great at bringing young prospects along and you can see what he’s done with Dennis (McCann), David Adeleye and people like that, for instance, where they have gone pro from scratch with Frank and now look at them.

“They are becoming big names in the sport and if Frank can do that for them, why can’t he do it for me? He can definitely do it for me.

“I need to get my debut done and get a bit of ring rust off as I haven’t boxed for two years now. Then I will be rolling and ready to get on a few good shows.

“Queensberry, not just Frank, but everyone who is working around him are a close knit team and I believe they can get fighters to where they want to get to.

“Of course I had offers from other promoters but I sat down with my team and family and weighed up the pros and cons. Frank was very interested in me and from what he said it was a no-brainer to go with him.”

Fletcher revealed that his boxing journey began with a bang when he hit the age of 15.

“I went to the boxing gym when I was 14 and had my first fight on my 15th birthday. I stopped my opponent in the first or second round and it was on a big amateur show at Colchester United’s football ground.

“I didn’t really know what to expect, then I walked out there and it was like a professional boxing show, to be honest. I annihilated him and when I was walking back I thought ‘this is a bit of me’.

“So I just carried on training, had a few more fights and then went into the Development Championships and I walked through them, even though I boxed credible opponents. I stopped every boy then went into the Junior ABAs and won that. I went to the European championships and didn’t medal after losing to a good Russian who had a lot of experience on me.

“I did well as an amateur for how many fights I had. I only had 21 fights, but they were of a good quality and I’ve boxed European gold medallists. So I have definitely mixed it with the best.

“I have been sparring with grown men from the age of 15 and when you are putting them to sleep, it says something.”

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren said of his new recruit: “Tommy is a young fighter with enormous potential and I am thrilled to bring him on board with us here at Queensberry.

“Taking young prospects from day one to the top is what we specialise in and I believe Tommy has all the ingredients to make a big impression in the sport.

“It is only early days, but the reports on the progress he is making in the gym are hugely encouraging and I feel certain that his journey will be an exciting one.

“Given the size and dimensions of the lad at just 20 – coupled with his obvious punching power – I wouldn’t be surprised if we end up having another heavyweight force on our hands in a few years time.”

DUBAI, MARCH 18 – Sunny Edwards and Muhammad Waseem shared an intense face-off ahead of their IBF world flyweight title fight tomorrow night.

Both fighters came inside the 8st limit when they tipped the scales on the stage at the Irish Village in Dubai.

Edwards and Waseem’s hotly anticipated clash headlines the second night of Probellum Evolution, with the WBC super-lightweight title final eliminator between Regis Prograis and Tyrone McKenna acting as the co-main event.

Liverpool’s Peter McGrail, a supremely gifted amateur who is unbeaten as a professional, also fights on the impressive card, which includes TJ Doheny, Hovhannes Bachkov and many others.

Boxing starts at 5:35pm local time with the action from a major night of boxing being broadcast by Eurosport’s linear channels discovery+ and Eurosport App, to 62 million homes across Europe and the Indian sub-continent.?

fuboTV will stream both Probellum Evolution shows to its audience in North America, with ESPN KO showing the cards in South America, after a deal was announced last week.

This is how you watch the action from Dubai.

MAIN EVENT?

?2320? (local time)

IBF WORLD FLYWEIGHT TITLE?– 12 Rounds

Sunny Edwards (17-0) 7st 13lbs 5oz

Muhammad Waseem (12-1) 7st 13lbs 12oz

?2220?

WBC SUPER-LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR?- 12 Rounds

Regis Prograis (26-1) 9st 12lbs 14oz

Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1) 9st 13lbs 8oz

?2150?

6 Rounds Super-bantamweight contest

Peter McGrail (2-0) 8st 13lbs

Alexandru Ionita (13-17-1) 8st 11lbs

?2100?

10 Rounds Featherweight contest

TJ Doheny (22-3) 9st 1oz

Cesar Juarez (27-10) 8st 13lbs 14oz

?1955?

10 Rounds Super-lightweight contest

Hovhannes Bachkov (2-0) 10st 2lbs 6oz

Cristian Coria (29-9-2)? 10st 2lbs 6oz

?1935?

4 Rounds Cruiserweight contest

Jamie King (2-0) 14st 6lbs 13oz

Naveen Verma (4-1) 14st 2lbs 6oz

?1905?

6 Rounds Lightweight contest

Bander Samreen (4-0) 9st 9lbs 13oz

Denis Bartos (6-2) ?9st 8lbs 14oz

?1845?

4 Rounds Light-heavyweight contest

Khalid Ayub (2-0) 12st 8lbs 6oz

Annem Sivareddy (1-2) 12st 8lbs 6oz

?1805?

8 Rounds Lightweight contest

Faizan Anwar (10-4)

Khojiakbov Qodirokhunov (4-0-1)

?1735?

6 Rounds Super-featherweight contest

Fahad Al Boushi (7-1) 9st 5lbs 13oz

Mohamed Kashinde (11-8-7) 9st 6lbs 1oz

For ticket news, live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Probellum’s elite stable of international fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Dina Thorslund and Muhammad Waseem.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack and Shabaz Masoud among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

Since launching, Probellum has also signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).?

London, England –  18 March 2022 – Dan Azeez will get his chance for revenge against  rival Matthew Tinker who handed him a ‘pasting’ in the amateurs when they meet again  in the pro ranks on Saturday 26th March at the OVO Arena Wembley, live on Sky Sports.

Azeez and Tinker face off in a clash of the undefeated big-hitters in their 10-Round International Light-Heavyweight showdown that features as chief support to the big London cruiserweight derby between Richard Riakporhe and Deion Jumah.

In his own words, Azeez admits he was well beaten by Tinker in their three-round fight in November 2014 for the Lord Mayor BoxCup, but now over six years on he believes it will be a completely different fight in the pros when they once again trade leather with both unbeaten records on the line.

Lewisham’s undefeated Azeez has looked sensational on his rise to a perfect 15-fight and 10 KO record and has won the Southern Area, English and British titles through the traditional route.

He made a massive statement in his last fight when he challenged for the Lonsdale belt against the former British Champion Hosea Burton last November with a punch perfect performance to halt the tough Carrington man in the seventh round.

From Scarborough, Tinker has built his unbeaten eight-fight record exclusively in the US since turning professional in November 2019.  A highly regarded amateur who won the 2014 Haringey Gold Elite, hard southpaw Tinker has proved his power Stateside with six of his eight wins coming by stoppage and six of those inside two rounds.

Azeez is relishing the rematch and promises a more defining outcome.  He said, “Tinker is my old amateur rival and he beat me so it would be great to get one back over him in the professional ranks.  He’s a good fighter with a great amateur pedigree and I believe our styles will make for a great fight.  We’re now meeting in the pros and it will be a totally different ending.”

The action packed show at the OVO Arena Wembley is headlined with the big London cruiserweight collision between Richard Riakporhe and Deion Jumah; light-heavyweight star Dan Azeez faces former amatuer rival Matthew Tinker; Olympian talent Caroline Dubois; unbeaten lightweight hot shot Adam Azim faces Conor Marsden; his undefeated brother Hassan is in welterweight action; Chris Kongo is back chasing World title contention; the pro-debut of London heavyweight star Jeamie TKV; Southampton puncher Joe Pigford; the pro-debut of Team England amateur star Jimmy Lee; Louis Greene and Harry Scarff square off for the Vacant English Welterweight title and super-flyweight prospect Shannon Ryan makes her pro-debut.

Former world title challenger Jono Carroll stopped Patrick Ayi Aryee in round four of a scheduled 10-round super featherweight bout.

In round four, Carroll trapped Aryee in the corner and unloaded about 35 unanswered blows that forced a (late) referee stoppage at 2:07.

Carroll, 131.4 of Ireland is 22-7 with seven knockouts. Aryee, 131.4 lbs of Accra, GHA is 21-1-1.

Foster Decisions Yaqubov

O’Shaquie Foster won a 12-round unanimous decision over Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov in a super featherweight contest.

Foster, 129.8 lbs of Houston, TX won by scores of 118-109 and 117-110 twice and is now 19-2. Yaqubov, 129.6 lbs is 18-1.

Masoud stops Boyeux after 2

Shabaz Masoud stopped Yoann Boyeux after round two of their scheduled 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Masoud hurt Boyeux several times in the six-minutes of action and the fight was stopped after the 2nd frame.

Masoud, 121.7 lbs of England is 10-0 with three knockouts. Boyeux, 121.7 of France is 43-7.

Long Island, New York (March 17, 2022) – All ten fighters lacing up the gloves in tomorrow nights “Rockin’ Fights” 41 weighed in today at the Huntington Hilton in Melville, New York.

WHO:
10-Round NABA Super Bantamweight Main Event
OLEH “UKRAINIAN PITBULL” DOVHUN 121.2 lbs
(13-0 5KO’s | Pittsburgh, PA)
GERAM ELOYAN 120.8 lbs
(7-2 6KO’s | Brussels, Belgium)

8-Round ABO North American Super Welterweight Bout
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES 153.4 lbs
(11-0 8KO’s | Elmont, NY)
JIMMY “QUIET STORM” WILLIAMS 154 lbs.
(18-6-2 6KO’s | New Haven, CT)

6-Round Super Welterweight Bout
?WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT 155 lbs.
(12-1 5KO’s | Huntington, NY)
TRAVIS GAMBARDELLA 160.8 lbs
(7-1-2 3KO’S | Revere, MA)

4-Round Light Heavyweight Bout
LOUIS “IL MARTELLO” MAIETTA 175.4 lbs
(1-0-1 | Bronx, NY)
KAMRON HUMPHREY 175.4 lbs
(2-0 1KO | Brooklyn, NY)

4-Round Super Welterweight Bout
ISAAH FLAHERTY 159.4 lbs
(2-0 1KO | Elmont, NY)
ANGELO THOMPSON 154.2 lbs
(0-1 | Newark, NJ)

If you cannot make it to the Paramount tomorrow night, Star Boxing has you covered! Pre-order the entire “Rockin’ Fights” 41 card via FITE.TV by clicking HERE. Doors to The Paramount will open at 7 PM ET and fists will finally fly at 7:30 PM ET.

WATCH LIVE ON FITE.TV:
FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on the www.FITE.TV website, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream all “Rockin’ Fights” 41 bouts and be available for just $19.99 or by subscribing to FITE+. Check availability in your area by going to the FITE.tv website.

“Rockin’ Fights” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

PHOTO CREDIT: STAR BOXING/NICK SIDERIS

TICKETS:
Tickets to #RockinFights at The Paramount are now available at ticketmaster.com or by visiting www.starboxing.com. Tickets start at $50. Purchase your tickets, HERE.

“Rockin’ Fights” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on March 18, 2022 at the Paramount in Long Island, NY.
Bouts subject to change
“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 41 TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: FRIDAY, MARCH 18 AT THE PARAMOUNT
ABOUT ROCKIN’ FIGHTS

Created in 2011, the “Rockin’ Fights” series has developed elite boxing talent and has produced current WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion, the “Common Man”, JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (Mastic, Long Island 27-3 21KO’s) and former WBO Super Lightweight World Champion, CHRIS ALGIERI (Huntington, NY 24-3 9KO’S), two of only four Long Island World Champions EVER.

“ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 41 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
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For more information visit us at www.StarBoxing.com. For 30 years of action packed fights, subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE. Follow along on social media for fight announcements and updates @StarBoxing, and join the conversation using #RockinFights.

PAST RELEASES:
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 ANNOUNCED FOR MARCH 18
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 MAIN EVENT ANNOUNCED: DOVHUN vs SILVA
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41 TYRONE JAMES vs JIMMY WILLIAMS ANNOUNCED
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: THE JAMES FAMILY ROOTS
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 41: ROCKIN’ FIGHTS IS READY TO RUMBLE
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS ARCHIVES:
Rockin’ Fights 38: Cletus Seldin vs Luis Flores NABA Title Bout
CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN returned to the Paramount at “Rockin Fights” 38 to face off with late replacement LUIS FLORES in a WAR for the NABA Super Lightweight Title
Rockin’ Fights 35: Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James vs Ray Oliveira Jr.
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!