DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA – August 25, 2017 – Raging Babe and Hall of Fame Matchmaker Russell Peltz have assembled what could be the best card North Carolina has seen this year. When “Raging Babe” Michelle Rosado first stepped foot into North Carolina, she did so with intent and purpose. North Carolina has, for too long, been seen as a place where fighters can go pad their records. Rosado was committed to changing that, and the newly minted Promoter plans on delivering on that commitment when she presents Thursday Night Fights on October 19th at the Durham Armory.

The main event is a local match-up, thick with bad blood. Marko “The Bull City Bully” Bailey (5-0, 3KO) faces off against Charlotte’s Stevie “The Answer” Massey (4-1, 4KO). in a six-round bout that has been brewing since both fighters were in the amateur ranks. The behind-closed-doors trash talk that both fighters have partaken in over the past few years has spilled over onto social media, and will now culminate in North Carolina State Championship bout on October 19th. “He runs his mouth too much,” said Bailey of his opponent. “This is personal. I want to beat the s— out of him. I have waited a long time to get my hands on this guy, and I’m going to break him down over six rounds. I’m going to make him look bad.” This is Bailey’s first six round bout, and he enters camp with the words of Undisputed Super Lightweight Champion Terence Crawford in his mind. “I spent some time with Bud last weekend. He told me that even when you’re struggling, and times get hard, you gotta fight through it no matter what. No excuses.” Bailey is training three hours from home with his head coach Don Turner. “It’s not easy work, training hours each day on a farm with only work, rest and corn.” Said Rosado of Bailey’s camp. Bailey isn’t deterred. “You gotta fight through adversity. That’s what makes champions. That’s what shows what you’re made of,” said the young fighter.

Massey plans on letting his fists do the talking. “I don’t back down from nobody,” said Massey of the match-up. “We should have fought in the amateurs, but it didn’t happen, and now it’s time.” The 24-year old featherweight is moving up in weight to fight Bailey, and Bailey is moving down. They are meeting in the middle at 132 lbs. Massey is coming off his first loss, a tough unanimous decision to Reggie Barnett Jr. Many fighters would take an easier touch after a loss, but that’s not the way Massey is built. “The loss gave me that hunger back. He better strap up because October 19th, I’m coming.”

It is the kind of matchup that Rosado and Peltz like best. “Listen, Michelle is a go- getter, she’s aggressive,” said Peltz. “She buys into the local match-ups theory. There’s nothing wrong with boxing that good fights won’t help. Michelle understands that. You have to make competitive fights. If you can make them at the local level without TV, it’s only going to help boxing in the long run. We’re trying change culture in NC. Anytime you get two local kids to fight each other in the 21st century, it’s a big deal.”

In the co-main event, two undefeated, local Durham fighters step up to face each other in a six round bout at Junior Middleweight. Joseph Jackson (8-0, 6KO) squares off against Monreco “King Reek” Goldston (5-0-1, 3KO), with both fighters putting their ‘O’ on the line. It will be Goldston’s first bout in over a year, after having scored a majority draw with Virginia’s Robert Sweeney in May 2016. The bout will be Jackson’s fourth this year. He is coming off a knockout win over Darryol Humphrey last Saturday, August 19th.

Also on the card, Carlos Olmeda (2-0, 2KO) faces a very tough opponent in New York brawler Vinnie Denierio (1-2, 1KO). It isn’t the first time the 5’10” Southpaw Denierio has fought in the Bull City. He faced Marko Bailey there in April, before rematching him in June in Philadelphia. Both bouts earned standing ovations from the crowd. Olmeda isn’t the type to back down, despite being the smaller of the two fighters, plans to give the New Yorker all he can handle.

The remainder of the card is stacked with some of North Carolina’s most promising talent. Undefeated Junior Middleweight Donnie Marshall (5-0, 4KO) makes an appearance on the card, alongside Super Middleweight prospect Blake “The KO King” Mansfield (4-1-1, 2KO) , and Raleigh Heavyweight Nate Williams (1-0, 1KO). Also on the card, Hasim Rahman, Jr. makes his North Carolina debut. The heavyweight is following in his father’s footsteps, and has earned two wins, both by knockout, since his April debut.

The fight card fulfills Rosado’s promise to the fans of North Carolina. “These fighters are not messing around,” said Rosado. “It’s refreshing to work with guys that want to fight.” Rosado noted that, to the fighters’ credit, the aforementioned match-ups were an easy sell. “They wanted to come and fight for the fans. No outlandish press tours, no pay-per-view, no circus acts, no embarrassing match-ups. Just real boxers fighting real fights, Durham style.”

Thursday Night Fights is sponsored by Corona Extra. Tickets are on sale now ($75, 50, 40), and available at RagingBabe.com or by calling 919-584-4849.

London (25 August 2017) Manchester star Jimmy ‘Kilrain’ Kelly will contest for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Super-Welterweight Championship on a massive night of boxing at the Manchester Arena headlined by Hughie Fury’s challenge for the WBO World Heavyweight title against Joe Parker.

Kelly will feature as chief-support on an action-packed card that includes the British Bantamweight Championship showdown between Josh Wale and Don Broadhurst, a cracking British Lightweight Title Eliminator between Joe Murray and Matty Fagan.

The hugely popular Wythenshawe fighter faces hard Bulgarian Stiliyan Kostov over 12-rounds as he looks to reclaim the WBO Intercontinental title to get back into world title contention following his loss in his first attempt to the then WBO World Champion Liam Smith back in December 2015.

A former WBC Youth Champion, Kelly is on an unbeaten 6-fight run since the loss to Smith and a victory over big-hitting Kostov – who’s won 16 out 21 wins by KO – will put him back in pole position for a world title shot.

“It’s one of the biggest fight nights in British boxing this year and I’m thrilled in a title fight as chief support to Hughie’s challenge for the WBO World title,” Said Kelly.

“We’re both Manchester lads and trained in the same club as amateurs so I aim to make it a double on the night with him winning the world title and me capturing the WBO European belt,”

“Winning the title will get me into a great position in the WBO rankings and give me a clearer path towards my second shot at the world title which I believe that I’m ready for again,”

“I’m still only 24 and I’ve learnt plenty since the loss to Smith, it’s been hard work getting myself back up to this position, but I’ve gone six fights unbeaten since and I’m hungrier than ever to get back into world title contention,”

“Kostov can be a dangerous fighter, he can whack a bit and I know that I’ve got to keep on my game and watch that sharp right hand of his. Whilst Kostov has pushed Brian Rose the eight-round distance last year, I’ll be looking to make a strong statement by taking him out before the end.”

Tickets for Parker v Fury are priced at £40, £60, £100, £150, £200, £300 and VIP £600 are available from www.eventim.co.uk

For more information on Parker v Fury www.hennessysports.com; you can follow on all social media @hennessysports and follow the conversation at #ParkerFury

By Norm Frauenheim-

LAS VEGAS – The Strip is kind of the ultimate fantasy camp. Only the hangovers are real. Everything else is about it is as believable as Donald Trump, whose name adorns one of the countless towers at the other end of a dizzy street from where another fantasy is about to unfold Saturday night.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.-versus-Conor McGregor is supposed to be a fight. Mayweather says it will be. McGregor says it will be. The Nevada State Athletic Commission sanctioned it, so it must be, right?

Yet, suspicions abound, despite all the trappings, including money, more money — did we mention money? – and a media tent almost big enough to hide an aircraft carrier.

I’m seated in that tent right now, across the street from the Luxor, a hotel named for an ancient Egyptian city with a front that includes the sculpted face of a Pharaoh with enigmatic blue eyes that seem to be asking:

What the hell am I doing here?

I can’t say I have an answer. After all, I’m a boxing guy who believes McGregor has about as much of a chance as the first three letters in his first name might suggest. From a UFC star with no reported experience as a pro boxer, it sounds like a Con.

“I’m going to out box this man at his own game,’’ McGregor said Wednesday at the MGM Grand during the final news conference for a 12-round event scheduled for T-Mobile Arena.

Really? That would be about as believable as Mayweather saying he would outkick or out grapple McGregor, whose 21-3 record seems to say that he isn’t quite as proficient at the mixed arts as the 49-0 Mayweather has been at his own.

It just doesn’t add up, although McGregor’s cocksure tone suggests that maybe he’s conned himself into believing he can win as much as he has conned his fans. The money on McGregor has been pouring in like Guinness from a busted tap. Late Thursday, Mayweather was a 4-1 favorite.

In other words, the odds give McGregor a better chance at beating Mayweather than Marcos Maidana, a world-class boxer. Maidana, who as far we know never had to kick anyone to win, was about a 7-1, 8-1 underdog in each of his losses to Mayweather.

Like I said, it just doesn’t add up. McGregor’s chances at beating Mayweather at a skill he has mastered like few ever have appears to be about as likely as the truth and nothing but the truth from that aforementioned guy whose name adorns that gold-trimmed tower at the other end of the Strip.

In a much larger sense, however, McGregor has already won. According to various reports, he could collect $100 million. For him, the task is not to do something stupid. There’s a clause in his contract that prohibits MMA tactics.

In effect, it’s a clause that could take away his instinct. Can he really fight that way? Can any fighter? I’ve always believed in Mike Tyson’s famous line about what happens to well-practiced plans when the first big punch lands. It’s then when a fighter becomes who he really is.

McGregor appears to be imminently hittable. Mayweather’s precise punches will land repeatedly and with power augmented by gloves lighter than usual for the 154-pound division. The Nevada Commission approved eight ounces, instead of the usual 10. McGregor celebrated the move, but the guess here is that he’ll regret it. Mayweather has promised a KO and the lighter gloves will help him accomplish exactly that.

The question is McGregor’s reaction when Mayweather’s punches put him into the dangerous daze between $100 million and instinct. Will he carefully protect the money or become the guy he really is with a kick as instinctive as it would be disqualifying?

The Pharaoh didn’t have an answer for that one either.

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 24, 2017): Miguel Cotto (40-5, 33 KOs), the only four-division world champion in Puerto Rico’s rich boxing history, and Japanese 154-pound contender Yoshihiro “El Maestrito” Kamegai (27-3-2, 24 KOs) hosted their final press conference today ahead of their 12-round fight for the vacant WBO World Junior Middleweight title in the main event of an exciting action-packed card this Saturday, August 26 at the StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. and televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

In the co-main event of the HBO telecast, WBC Super Bantamweight champion Rey Vargas (29-0, 22 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico will make the first defense of his title against Santa Ana, California’s Ronny Rios (28-1, 13 KOs) in a scheduled 12-round fight. The card is fully stacked with Golden Boy talent, including Emilio Sanchez, Joet Gonzalez, Tenochtitlan “T-Dog” Nava, Alexis Rocha, among others.

Below is what participants of HBO World Championship Boxing® had to say.

MIGUEL COTTO, Four-Division World Champion:
“It’s a pleasure for me to be here. We’ve been enjoying every session at the gym. I’ve been doing my work as hard as I can. We’re ready. We are ready for the fight, and I’m happy to be back. Thank you everyone for being here. We’re going to do our best this Saturday, and the winners will be fans all over the world.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Trainer of Miguel Cotto:
“We had a really good training camp, a little longer than usual. He [Cotto] had a little bit of layoff previously, but camp went well. We watched a lot of film on our opponent [Kamegai]. We have a really great strategy, and it will be an action packed fight. Miguel is 100 percent ready. It was the best training camp we’ve had yet. We’ll see you Saturday. Thank you.”

YOSHIHIRO “MAESTRITO” KAMEGAI, Junior Middleweight Contender:
“Hello everyone I’m Yoshihiro Kamegai from Japan. I want to thank HBO, Golden Boy, Teiken Promotions, the WBO, Miguel Promotions-everyone who made this event possible. I’m extremely pleased to be back at StubHub, where a lot of legendary battles have been fought. I’m looking forward to it. I’m extremely pleased to be fighting for the WBO title belt held by great champions like Oscar De La Hoya, Marco Antonio Barrera, and I’m looking forward to fighting a great legendary champion like Miguel Cotto.”

SENDAI TANAKA, Trainer to Yoshihiro Kamegai:
“I want to thank HBO, Golden Boy Promotions, and Teiken Promotions. Thank you especially to Miguel Cotto for accepting Kamegai as an opponent. Cotto is a legendary fighter, very complete, worldwide one of the best. Kamegai is very excited and happy to step into the ring with a fighter like Miguel Cotto. And you know his style. He likes to train, to punch and take punches. And he’s very excited to get in there and give you guys a great fight. That’s why he’ll throw punches until victory comes, always.

REY VARGAS, WBC Super Bantamweight Champion:
“One of the biggest fights that I got was when I got to go to England to win the title. For me, it was double the effort since I had to go over there to get it [the WBC title]. I got it. I won it. And now I’m defending it against a great fighter. I like great fights. I like great challenges, and I will prove that I am a great champion. I’m ready to fight the big fights in the big leagues, and I will do it against a great fighter.”

“That makes us happy and motivates us more because we’re at the big leagues and we want to show that we are champions. I’m happy to be on this card. I’d like to thank HBO for the opportunity to prove to people that I’m a good champion. I’m sure that you’re going to watch an exciting fight this Saturday, so please don’t miss it.”

RONNY RIOS, Super Bantamweight Contender:
“I want to thank Golden Boy for putting this event together. It means a great deal. I want to say something because everyone is bringing up the topic of real fights. I want to thank HBO for putting up a real card. If you want to watch real fights, tune in to HBO. Thank you to Rey Vargas for accepting this fight. I want to thank my coach, who has been there through thick and thin. We’re here and we’ll make the most of our opportunity. We’re ready for this. Tune in on Saturday night for a great night and a great night of boxing.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CEO & Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions:
“We are extremely happy and thrilled that Miguel Cotto will fighting for the WBO world title at the StubHub Center. Cotto has been and is an amazing champion in the sport of boxing. He is Puerto Rico’s first four-division champion. He will be fighting against someone who is exciting to watch and has been in several Fight of the Year candidates, one against Jesus Soto Karass.

“This fight has the makings to be another candidate for Fight of the Year. I want to thank our co-promoters, Miguel Cotto Promotions. It’s always a pleasure to be working with this team. We are on a vision to bring boxing back to Puerto Rico, so there is a tremendous opportunity for Miguel Cotto to crown himself the only world champion in Puerto Rico today, so this is obviously a huge deal.

“This is obviously a big deal for Yoshihiro Kamegai, who will be fighting for a world title against a legend like Miguel Cotto. It’s a great motivation for him, so I know that he’s in tremendous shape and ready to go, and we know for a fact that this main event will be one that you do not want to miss.

“We also have a tremendous co-main event which will be a 12-round fight for the WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship. It’s Rey Vargas, who will be up against Ronny Rios, who is a tremendous fighter. We really are looking forward to this fight. It is a very important fight for not only Mexico, but also for here in the greater Los Angeles area.

“I want to also thank Teiken Promotions. Mr. Honda has been incredible working with us. It’s always a pleasure working with Teiken Promotions, where we do have several up and coming and ex world champions and current world champions that we have working with Honda. Also, Promociones Del Pueblo. Thank you for the opportunity. They are one of the best promoters in Mexico. I also want to thank HBO. They are the best in televising the bets boxing events. HBO has been a tremendous partner.”

TONY WALKER, Vice President at HBO Sports:
“We really appreciate you being here and talking about boxing, and really about what we are going to have Saturday night. Cotto will make his 23
rd appearance on HBO, and through his combination of skill and style he’s done well in every broadcast he’s been on. But Saturday night he’ll have to bring all those skills because Kamegai has put in his own work and has his own career aspirations.”

MARTHA SHEN-URQUIDEZ from California State Athletic Commission:
“I was so happy when I heard that this fight was scheduled for August 26 at StubHub, one of the great venues for boxing in California. It was a pleasure to hear that it was going to be this fight on this particular day, so that boxing aficionados and lovers like me have a great boxing match, a great undercard, and great main event to watch on Saturday, August 26.

“I have seen Miguel Cotto and Yoshihiro Kamegai fight on separate occasions, and it is always a pleasure to see them fight, and it will be an even bigger pleasure to see the fight against each other. I am very grateful for Golden Boy, for Mr. Honda, for StubHub Center and for HBO for bringing this an event of this caliber to Southern California again. I’m always grateful for Eric Gomez, Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins and his team. We wish everyone a safe and successful event.”

FRANCISCO VALCARCEL, President of the World Boxing Organization (WBO):
“It’s a great pleasure for me to be here. I remember when Oscar told me that he wanted to be the WBO 160-pound champion. Oscar was given the opportunity to be a champion in three different divisions, and now we will give Cotto the same opportunity, who won the WBO belts in the 140 and 147 divisions. Good luck to everybody. Congratulations to Oscar De La Hoy and his team. Con-gratulations on a big show.”

BOB YALEN, Technical Director at the World Boxing Council (WBC)
“Thank you everybody for coming today. One thing that hasn’t been said yet is that this is a fight fans’ fight card. This is real fight card. You’ve got a future hall of famer against one of the best fighters that Japan has ever produced. You’re going to have a WBC title fight that I think will steal the fight card.”

“You’ve got Rey Vargas against an undefeated challenger against a once-defeated challenger, and you’re going to see a great, great fighter for a WBC title. I want to thank Golden Boy, StubHub, and HBO. It will be a great night of boxing. Everyone is in store for a treat. Keep an eye on this fight card.”

BRENDAN HANNAN, Vice President, Marketing, Communications and Digital for Stub-Hub Center:
“We are thrilled on Saturday to welcome the Cotto-Kamegai fight. We are thrilled to work with HBO and Golden Boy Promotions to bring this fight to you. We truly believe that StubHub is the premiere outdoor boxing venue in the United States. Like Oscar said, we have very few tickets remaining. We look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday. Enjoy the fights this Saturday.”

Cotto vs. Kamegai, a 12-round fight for the vacant WBO World Junior Middleweight Championship, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions in association with Teiken Promotions and sponsored by Tecate “BORN BOLD” and Casa Mexico Tequila. Rey Vargas vs. Ronny Rios is a 12-round world championship fight for the WBC Super Bantamweight Title, and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Promociones del Pueblo. The event will take place Saturday, August 26 at the StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT. The livestream portion will begin at approximately 4:45 p.m. ET/1:45 p.m. PT through approximately 9:45 p.m. ET/ 6:45 p.m. PT on RingTV.com.

Tickets for Cotto vs. Kamegai are on sale and priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at StubHub Center Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/CottoKamegai into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, and www.hbo.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @cottopromotions, @GoldenBoyBoxing, and @hboboxing, and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and www.facebook.com/realmiguelacotto. Visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @realmiguelacotto and follow the conversation using #CottoKamegai.

ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2017) – Unbeaten heavyweight champion LaRon Mitchell (15-0, 13 KOs) defends his Jr. NABF title against Michael Bissett (14-9, 8 KOs) this Friday, Aug. 25, from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

The San Francisco-based Mitchell weighed in at 242 lbs., while Bissett checked in at 209 lbs. during Thursday’s weigh in. The “Path to Glory” main event is set for 8-rounds.

Tickets for “Path to Glory” sold out quickly, prompting Thompson Boxing to add an additional section of seating. Those tickets will be available for purchase at the door on the day of the event (this Friday) starting at 6:00 p.m. local time.

The second half of the championship doubleheader showcases featherweight champion Erick Ituarte (17-1-1, 2 KOs) defending his Jr. NABF title against Alberto Torres (10-0-2, 4 KOs).

To watch Thursday’s weigh in, which aired earlier today on our Facebook page, please click here.

WEIGHTS

Championship Doubleheader

LaRon Mitchell, 242 vs. Michael Bissett, 209
(8-rounds / Jr. NABF Heavyweight Championship)
Erick Ituarte, 125.9 vs. Alberto Torres, 125.7
(8-rounds / Jr. NABF Featherweight Championship)

Undercard

Roberto Meza, Jr. 129 vs. Giovanni Cabrera, 128.8 (6-rounds)
Saul Sanchez (weighing in Friday)
Ruben Torres, 135.6 vs. Jesse Cruz, 137 (4-rounds)

Watch the LIVESTREAM: TB Presents: Path to Glory on ThompsonBoxing.com or on the Thompson Boxing Facebook Page beginning at 8:00 p.m. PST / 11:00 p.m. EST.

The “Path to Glory” broadcast team features Beto Duran on play-by-play, with Steve Kim providing expert color commentary.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 8:00 p.m. The Omega Products International is located at 1681 California Ave., Corona, CA 92881 and can be reached at 951-737-7447.

“Path to Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Lucas Oil, in association with Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #PathToGlory, #TBPresents, and #ThompsonBoxing.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

LaRon Mitchell, 242 vs. Michael Bissett, 209
(8-rounds / Jr. NABF Heavyweight Championship)

Erick Ituarte, 125.9 vs. Alberto Torres, 125.7
(8-rounds / Jr. NABF Featherweight Championship)

Roberto Meza, Jr. 129 vs. Giovanni Cabrera, 128.8 (6-rounds)

Ruben Torres, 135.6 vs. Jesse Cruz, 137 (4-rounds)

LAS VEGAS (August 24, 2017) – Fighters competing on the Mayweather vs. McGregor undercard spoke to media and went face-to-face Thursday, one day before they weigh-in ahead of their Saturday, Aug. 26 showdowns at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The four-fight SHOWTIME PPV event, beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, will feature undefeated rising star Gervonta “Tank” Davis making the second defense of his 130-pound title against undefeated challenger Francisco Fonseca plus light heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly defending his belt against former super middleweight champion Badou Jack. The telecast begins with unbeaten Andrew Tabiti and former world champion Steve Cunningham meeting in a 10-round battle.

Coverage begins on FOX and FOX Deportes with a one-hour Prefight Show at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Prelims on FOX and FOX Deportes begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will see a battle between welterweight contenders Thomas Dulorme and Yordenis Ugas plus a showdown of unbeaten prospects as Juan Heraldez meets Jose Miguel Borrego in a 10-round bout.

Additional action inside the arena will see unbeaten Kevin Newman (7-0-1, 3 KOs) in super middleweight action and the pro debut of 2016 Savannah Marshall from London.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the David Copperfield Theater at MGM Grand:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“Saturday night is going to be a great performance from me. I’m ready to take over this sport after Floyd passes me the torch.

“I had a great camp. I hope Fonseca’s camp was great because we have to put on a great performance for the fans. I want the fans to say that there is a new star in this sport.

“I feel like my career is very similar to Floyd’s so far. We started out at the same weight and we each got our first belt at 130-pounds. I just want to live up to what he’s accomplished and accomplish even more. I believe that I have the skills and the ability to be the big star in this sport.

“I just try to stay grounded because I know what I want to do in this sport. Because I have the belief in myself it’s easy for me to stay focused. I also think I have the best team in this sport and they help me every step of the way.

“Fonseca is a very good fighter. He’s very fast and sharp. He’s got a long reach but I know that he hasn’t fought anyone that has the skills that I have. I’m not overlooking him. I’m training really hard for this.

“I was in the position he’s in now. I know how him and his team are feeling. I know what I have to do to be victorious. I’m going to come out sharp and hopefully pick up even more fans than I have now.

“I want to unify this division and then move up in weight and keep adding titles. If I can’t get a unification bout next, then I’m going to move up for new challenges.

“This is a very important night for me. It’s important to me that I put on a great show. I want everyone to say that ‘there’s a new star in town.'”

FRANCISCO FONSECA

“The huge audience won’t intimidate me. I’ve dreamt my whole life to be in an event of this magnitude.

“I take this fight as a big responsibility. My dream has always been to fight in an event of this magnitude. My goal is to be a champion and come out of this with a belt on my waist.

“The preparation has been long. I’ve had five months of training in intense conditions. I feel strong mentally. On August 26, I aim to reach my goal as a champion for Costa Rica.

“This is an opportunity to start writing my legacy. Gervonta is tough because he is a champion, but I have the hunger and motivation to win and be a champion.

“All camps are different but in this one I had fivemonths to prepare. We were in Puerto Rico for the training and everything was smooth. I feel strong heading into this fight.

“We both have the pressure to win. I come to do my job. I’ve been keeping focused on the fight and the combat. He hasn’t experience an opponent with as much hunger as I have. It’s going to be a great fight and very competitive. He is the champion and I want to be the champion.”

NATHAN CLEVERLY

“I’m enjoying the experience of being in Las Vegas. I love fighting in this city. I’m looking forward to the fight and I’m going to embrace this moment.

“Ultimately, all that matters is the fight. I’m coming to win and that’s my sole focus. The fight is the pinnacle moment and I’m saving all my energy for that.

“I’ve persisted throughout my career. Any setbacks I just got right back to training and stayed consistent. If you keep working hard then the opportunities will arrive. I stayed patient and allowed the opportunities to come.

“I have no regrets in my career. I like taking risks in this sport. I fought Kovalev when I was 26, I fought Bellew at cruiserweight, I fought Fonfara in Chicago, Braehmer in Germany and now I’m fighting Badou Jack, who’s on the rise. I love the big fights.

“It’s a high-risk high reward fight. The winner of this is in line for Andre Ward and the super WBA title. This is a solid world title fight between two guys who want to be at the top of the division.”

BADOU JACK

“I’ve got great stamina in there. I’m never going to get tired. I train hard for this. Every punch in a fight is important. We have a great game plan and we’re going to execute it.

“I want to fight the best. I have the skills to beat anyone. If they say I can’t beat someone, that’s the fight I want the most.

“I’m not overlooking Nathan Cleverly. I’m just getting comfortable at this weight and I’m going to be focused on performing on fight night. If all goes well though, I could see myself finishing my career at cruiserweight someday.

“I’ve been fighting big, strong guys since Cleverly was a teenager. Well see who is the stronger man when we’re in the ring on Saturday.

“I feel better at this weight than at super middleweight. I’m looking forward to this fight. There happens to be a lot of UK fighters at my weight and I’ve enjoyed experiencing a little bit of the UK fans.”

ANDREW TABITI

“I began boxing because I was being bullied so my stepfather put me in the ring and I would get beat up every day. I learned a lot from those experiences. I just kept coming back every day and I never gave up. Now I’m here.

“This sport is about proving people wrong. People said Floyd wouldn’t beat a lot of guys in his career, I’m not saying I’m Floyd, but this is a sport where you have to prove yourself. We’ll see on Saturday.

“Being in the gym with Floyd gives me the drive to keep working. Seeing how hard he works, it shows me what I want to be.

“I have to use my legs and keep boxing. I need to use my speed in there. It’s different watching me on TV than actually being in there with me. I could see it going the distance but if I catch him, I’m going to finish him.

“One of my favorite fighters growing up was James Toney. That’s where I picked up some of my style. He used to hit combos off the shoulder roll and that’s what I like to do.

“This is a great undercard with Gervonta Davis and Badou Jack. I’m here trying to make a name for myself in the cruiserweight division and become a face of this weight class.”

STEVE CUNNINGHAM

“I actually commentated on one of Tabiti’s fights about a year and a half ago. He’s a good up-and-coming fighter. He emulates Floyd and he’s trained by Floyd’s dad so that’s expected. I think I’m going to overwhelm him mentally and physically.

“I don’t think Tabiti is at the top level yet. He has flaws and strengths but at the end of the day, he has a fight Saturday. He’s in there with a two-time world champion so he’s going to have to fight Saturday.

“Every fight on this level is a huge fight. I’ve been in the ring with some monsters. Some of the best cruiserweights and heavyweights in the world. I don’t think that I look 41 but you’ll have to let me know on Saturday.

“I think this is what Tabiti has been waiting for. I will be nice and calm and be right in his face and right in his chest.

“When these guys hang around Floyd they want to be like him and they’ve been around these events, so I don’t think the atmosphere will affect him. But once we’re in the ring, it’s just me and him.”

THOMAS DULORME

“I’m so happy to have this big fight on Saturday night. My team has done a great job to get me to this position.

“Having an opponent change is part of boxing. I was already training very hard for Shawn Porter so when the opponent changed, nothing changed in camp. I continued to work hard and on Saturday night I will show why I worked so hard.

“I want all of my Puerto Ricans to tune-in on Saturday night because I’m going out there to steal the show and put on the fight of the night.

“I’m going to bring an exciting fight for the fans and prove that I am a world championship level fighter. I fight for the fans and I can’t wait to get in there and perform.”

YORDENIS UGAS

“I feel great. I’m ready for Saturday and I’m excited to put on a great fight. I feel very blessed to be here and be a part of such a historic event.

“To my Cuban fans, I’m so proud to be representing my country here in Las Vegas and Saturday night it’s going to be a great fight.

“It is an honor to step in to face Dulorme. He’s a tremendous fighter. I’m here and I feel a blessed and happy to have been called. I won’t let my fans down.”

JUAN HERALDEZ

“My weight is great right now. I feel comfortable and hydrated. Everything has gone perfectly. I’m looking to make a mark in the junior welterweight division. Terrence Crawford is the dream fight and I just want to keep working up to that level.

“My career has progressed well and I think this fight is going to make me a contender. From here I just want to keep improving and getting in there with tougher opponents.

“I’ve been training out in Las Vegas since 1998 but the last two years in the Mayweather Boxing Club has been amazing. Everyone in the gym is so motivated right now. We all push each other by just working harder and trying to match each other.

“I didn’t watch much of Borrego in the beginning of camp, but I saw his record so I knew I had to train as hard as I ever have. But when I watched him I thought he was kind of limited. I think I have advantages and I think I’m the better all-around fighter.”

JOSE MIGUEL BORREGO

“I feel excited and motivated. Training has been tough but we’re sure we’re ready for Saturday.

“The motivation for this kind of card has been tremendous. I can’t wait to put on a show for all the Mexican fans who tune-in.

“I’m so proud to be the only Mexican on this card. We’re going to give it our all. We’re ready for this fight. I’m the new breed of Mexican fighters and I’m going to show it to the world.”

KEVIN NEWMAN

“I’ve had a great camp. I’m in top shape. I was really pushed in sparring working with Chris Eubank Jr. and some other guys. I’ve been up running at 5 a.m. four to five miles every day. I’m ready.

“I’ve improved a lot mentally. I’ve focused in more. Listening is key for me. I feel like I’m at a stage where I’m listening to my corner and we’re bonding and meshing together great.

“I just have to continue to stay focus and work hard. If I’m dedicated and disciplined to my craft, then everything else will fall into place.

“I’m happy to be here. I’m in a very blessed position. I can’t wait to go out there and put on a dominant performance. I plan on starting out strong and taking advantage of everything that I can.

“I just take my time and relax in the ring. I’m going to make my opponent fight my pace. He usually starts pretty quick but then he starts to fade. I’m going to dictate the pace from round and not let him get comfortable.”

# # #

MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event. Mayweather vs. McGregor will take place Saturday, Aug. 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV, promoted by Mayweather Promotions and sponsored by Corona. Coverage of the Prelims will begin on FOX and FOX Deportes at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

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Top rated light heavyweight contender Sullivan Barrera has been on a roll since losing a decision to pound-for-pound king Andre Ward in the spring of 2015.

Since his only professional loss, Barrera has rebounded in a major way, stopping the then unbeaten Slava Shabranskyy, Paul “Pay-Per-View” Parker, and in his most recent performance he dominated the red hot Joe Smith Jr. on HBO.

Barrera is now in a position where only the big fights make sense and he wants to finish out the year with a title shot or eliminator.

“I want the Jack-Cleverly winner for the WBA title or Kovalev next. Kovalev is a big name and I would beat him so bad he would retire. If I can’t fight them I want someone like Marcus Browne in an eliminator,” said Barrera.

“With the way I have fought I think I deserve the big fights. Now the question is which fighter will step up and actually fight me.”

The 35 year old Barrera wants to strike while the iron is fight and with his #3 WBC, #2 WBA and #5 WBO rankings, it shouldn’t be hard for him to get a fight versus any fighter looking to make a move in the light heavyweight division.

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BOUT 6 – BOXING
KEITH BERRY 180lbs VS JORDAN DAVIS 176lbs

BOUT 5 – MMA
GILBERT GUARDADO 154.6lbs VS ALEX REYES 155lbs

BOUT 4 – BOXING
BRIAN BRUNS 167lbs VS JUAN BARAJAS 166.6lbs

BOUT 3 – MMA
MIGUEL NETO 170lbs VS KRIS CALMES 171lbs

BOUT 2 – BOXING
ADAN OCHOA 124lbs VS LUPE ARROYO 124.1lbs

BOUT 1 – BOXING
TAIF HARRIS 152.4lbs VS NATHAN WESTON 154lbs

TUCSON, AZ (August 24, 2017) — Undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) world champions ÓSCAR VALDEZ and GILBERTO “Zurdo” RAMIREZ will headline and exciting world championship event on Friday, September 22, at Tucson Arena (260 South Church Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701.) Valdez (22-0, 19 KOs), a two-time Mexican Olympian with strong roots in Tucson, will be defending his WBO featherweight title against the WBO’s No. 4 world-rated contender GENESIS SERVANIA (29-0, 12 KOs), of Bacolod City, Philippines. WBO super middleweight champion Ramirez (35-0, 24 KOs), from Mazatlan Mexico, will take on No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger JESSE “Hard Work” HART (22-0, 18 KOs), of Philadelphia, PA. The four warriors boast a perfect combined record of 108-0 (73 KOs) with nearly 70% of their victories coming by way of knockout.

The undercard will feature undefeated Puerto Rico sensation and No. 1 lightweight contender FELIX “El Diamante” VERDEJO, Irish Olympic hero MICHAEL “MICK” CONLAN and undefeated junior welterweight contender ALEX SAUCEDO in separate bouts.

Both world championship fights will be televised live and exclusively at 10:30 p.m. EDT on ESPN and ESPN Deportes and stream live on the ESPN app.

Promoted by Top Rank® and Peltz Boxing, tickets to this world championship doubleheader are on sale Now! Priced at $102, $77, $52 and $27, tickets may be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet, online at www.Ticketmaster.com, by phone at (800) 745-3000, or by visiting the Tucson Convention Center ticket office.

“Fighting in Tucson is special to me because I know a lot of people there and I’m very happy to defend my world title in that great city. It’s a special treat for me and hopefully it will be a special treat for the fans.” said Valdez. “This will be my third title defense and God willing there will be many more. I want to represent my people of Mexico like all the legendary warriors from the past. My opponent is extremely tough and undefeated, which is a dangerous combination. I’m not underestimating him at all. I’ll be ready for his best. I prepare like I’m fighting the best of the best every time out. Fighting on ESPN is a big honor for me. Being able to reach a huge audience and to showcase my boxing skills is extremely important for my career. I’m grateful for the opportunity. I love Tucson. I grew up here, have family here and some of my best friends are here. I am proud to be a world champion. But I am facing a fighter who wants to take it all away from me in my hometown. That is why I am running longer, training harder to win and keep my world title. The greatest thing of being on ESPN is that they will show the world what all of us on this card are all about.”

“I am very excited about this bout because I have waited so long — several
years as a highly-ranked contender — for this chance at the world title. Thank you so much. to Top Rank for giving me this chance, and to the champion for accepting my challenge,” said Servania. “I respect Oscar Valdez. He has a great Olympic background, and has proven his ability as a professional. However, I am ready for this fight and I will do my best on September 22. I am training hard now in Japan to bring the belt back to Kashimi Boxing Gym in Kanazawa. Many thanks to all my family and friends in the Philippines and around the world for your love and support. I want to give a special thanks too to all the people in Japan supporting me and inspiring me to realize my dream of becoming world champion.”

“I was waiting for this fight way before I became a champion, but they said he wasn’t ready for me. It is ok that he has been talking a lot. I just hope that he is prepared to fight the same way he has been talking. I hope he is ready to fight and not to run, and to just try to survive,” said Ramirez. “I want to give the fans a great fight and I hope Hart comes with the same mentality, so we can make it happen. I ’m happy to be back in action and make my second world title defense. This is the first time that I will fight in Tucson and I’m really excited to fight in this great city. There will be a lot of Mexican fans in attendance and I want to give them a great show. I’m very excited to fight on ESPN. All the boxing fans will have the chance to watch the fight. This is a great opportunity on a very big platform where I can show the whole world why I’m the best champion in the super middleweight division. Jesse Hart made it personal, saying very bad things about me. He is going to pay for talking like this. I am going to hit him hard and drive him straight down to the canvas. You don’t talk about a champion the way he is talking about me. I worked hard starting in street fights in Mexico years ago. Then came professional boxing and now I am a world champion. This is my biggest fight and it’s on ESPN for all to really see what being a champion is all about.”

“I am going to be pitching some heat onto Ramirez. I am going to throw so much he will have to think for himself and not look to his corner for help like he does a lot during a fight. Either he’s going to quit in the ring or I am going to knock him out,” said Hart. “This is the big fight I’ve always wanted. My father ‘Cyclone’ is with me. Don’t tell me how tough Ramirez is. He hasn’t had a knockout in years. All of the pressure is on him, not me. This is my fight.”

“From top to bottom this is a card that will feature the stars of boxing’s new era,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. “Oscar Valdez and Gilberto Ramirez, young world champions, risk their world titles in battles of the undefeated, plus rising stars Michael Conlan, Felix Verdejo and Alex Saucedo will give the fans in Tucson, and those tuning into ESPN, ESPN Deportes and the ESPN app, a night of exciting fights.”

“I’m happy have my hand in an outstanding promotion in Tucson, given its rich boxing history. It will be my first time promoting in the Old Pueblo,” said Russell Peltz. “It is an entire card of good fights and the fans are going to enjoy the show. I’m looking forward to seeing another Philadelphian (Jesse Hart) having the chance to win a world title.”

Valdez (22-0, 19 KOs), from Nogales, México, and who represented México in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, was the first Méxican fighter to qualify for two Olympic games. He is considered one of the bright lights of the featherweight division and a new face for boxing’s next generation. He will be making the third defense of the world title he won on July 23, 2016 via a second-round knockout of undefeated No. 2 rated Matías Rueda. Rueda entered that fight having won his previous 10 bouts by stoppage. In his first defense, which took place, on November 5, he blasted out No. 1 contender Hiroshige Osawa via a seventh-round TKO. In his 2017 debut, his first pay-per-view event that featured him in the main event, Valdez, 26, went toe-to toe for 12 rounds with No. 1 contender Miguel Marriaga, winning a unanimous decision. Marriaga, a three-time world title challenger, went into that fight having won 15 of his previous 19 bouts by way of knockout.

Servania (29-0, 12 KOs), who hails from Bacolod City, Philippines and fights out of Kanazawa, Japan, will be making his U.S. debut. Known for his aggressive style and good skills and movement, Servania is always in top condition. He returns to the ring in his first bid for a world title fresh from a second-round TKO victory of Ralph Lulu on April 29, for the vacant WBO Asia Pacific featherweight title. He is currently world-rated No. 4 by the WBO and No. 7 by the IBF.

Ramírez (35-0, 24 KOs), a two-fisted super middleweight wrecking machine who hails from Mazatlán, México, made history in the co-main event to the Manny Pacquiao vs. Timothy Bradley welterweight pay-per-view on April 9, 2016, when he became México’s first fighter to win a super middleweight world title. Entering the fight as the top world-rated contender, Ramirez gave a virtuoso performance over the defending WBO champion Arthur Abraham. All three judges scored it as a 120-108 blitzkrieg. “I took him to Méxican boxing school,” a jubilant Ramírez boasted as he put on the world championship belt . A sensational young champion, Ramírez, 26, had been scheduled to make his first title defense in July 2016, but a training camp injury to his right hand followed by surgery and rest sidelined him for the remainder of the year. He returned to on April 22, winning a unanimous decision over Top-10 contender and one-time world title challenger Max “Tiger” Bursak.

Hart (22-0, 18 KOs), the son of Philadelphia boxing legend Eugene “Cyclone” Hart, has transformed from a sensational prospect into a hot contender. Trained by his father, the highly-rated middleweight contender of the late ’60s and early ’70s, the younger Hart, at age 28, enters this fight having won nine of his last 10 bouts by way of knockout. He captured the NABO and USBA super middleweight titles in 2015, knocking out Mike Jimenez in the sixth-round. He successfully defended those titles four times during his two-year reign, including a fifth-round stoppage of Alan Campa on April 8, en route to his No. 1 world ranking by the WBO.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/espndeportes; Twitter twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, @ESPN @ESPNBoxeo
@ESPNDeportes. Use the hashtags #ValdezServania and #RamirezHart to join the conversation on Twitter.

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Summer sizzles when WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING: MIGUEL COTTO VS. YOSHIHIRO KAMEGAI AND REY VARGAS VS RONNY RIOS is seen SATURDAY, AUG. 26 at 9:45 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) from StubHub Center in Carson, Cal., exclusively on HBO. The HBO Sports team will call the action, which will be available in HDTV, closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired and presented in Spanish on HBO Latino.

The doubleheader will also be available on HBO NOW, HBO GO, HBO On Demand and affiliate portals.

The main event features boxing legend and future Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto (40-5, 33 KOs) of Caguas, Puerto Rico taking on Tokyo’s Yoshihiro Kamegai (27-3-2, 24 KOs) in a scheduled 12-round junior middleweight title contest. Making his 23rd appearance on HBO, Cotto has been a dominant force in the sport for more than a decade, and is seeking his sixth world title spanning four weight classes. Though he hasn’t fought since Nov. 2015, Cotto’s return opens up intriguing possibilities at 154 and 160 pounds.

Known for his brawling style, Kamegai brings high energy into the ring and boasts a 75% knockout-to-win ratio. His last bout was a TKO victory over Jesus Soto Karass that followed their previous meeting, which ended in a split-decision draw when Kamegai suffered a cut over his right eye in the second round from an accidental head butt.

The opening bout features undefeated Rey Vargas (29-0, 22 KOs), from Otumba, México, taking on top contender Ronny Rios (28-1, 13 KOs) from Santa Ana, Cal. in a scheduled 12-round super bantamweight title contest. Defending his title for the first time since defeating Gavin McDonnell, Vargas will be fighting in the U.S. for the third time, and fighting outside Mexico for the fourth time. Making his first world title challenge, Rios is on a five-bout win streak following his only professional loss.

The doubleheader will be followed by the debut of the two-part behind-the-scenes series “24/7 Canelo/Golovkin,” which previews the Sept. 16 middleweight championship pay-per-view bout in Las Vegas. (Click here to Watch Preview)

Follow HBO boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.

All HBO boxing events are presented in HDTV. HBO viewers must have access to the HBO HDTV channel to watch HBO programming in high definition.

The executive producer of WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is Rick Bernstein; producer, Jonathan Crystal; director, Johnathan Evans.

LAS VEGAS (August 23, 2017) – Mayweather vs. McGregor fight week continued on Wednesday after the main event final press conference with open media workouts for fighters competing on the undercard this Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The four-fight SHOWTIME PPV event, beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, will feature undefeated rising star Gervonta “Tank” Davis making the second defense of his IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship against undefeated challenger Francisco Fonseca plus light heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly defending his belt against former super middleweight champion Badou Jack. The telecast begins with unbeaten Andrew Tabiti and former world champion Steve Cunningham meeting in a 10-round battle.

Coverage begins on FOX and FOX Deportes with a one-hour Prefight Show at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Prelims on FOX and FOX Deportes begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will see a battle between welterweight contenders Thomas Dulorme and Yordenis Ugas plus a showdown of unbeaten prospects as Juan Heraldez meets Jose Miguel Borrego in a 10-round bout.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“It feels great being a 22-year-old world champion on the biggest card in fight sports history. I’m ready to shine.

“I’ve watched Fonseca and he’s a tough, undefeated opponent who has a high work rate and good defense. My team has a great game plan for this fight and there are several things we plan to do in order to successfully defend my belt.

“It feels great being the youngest U.S. champion and I’m happy that I’m making my fans and the city of Baltimore proud.

“I just want to keep winning, look spectacular while doing so and keep building towards being that next PPV superstar in boxing. Keep supporting me and I’ll fight for you.”

FRANCISCO FONSECA

“I’m taking in the moment and enjoying it. I’ve always dreamed of being on a card like this, it just so happens to be the biggest card in combat sports history. I’ve trained hard to take this title away.

“I’m an athlete. I can box or I can go forward and apply pressure. I can dominate at all three distances; it just depends on the opponent.

“Gervonta is a good fighter. He has respectable power but I don’t believe it’s true knockout power. I have a game plan to win this fight.

“I will be the first world champion from Costa Rica and that’s what it’s all about. I fight for my family and my country.”

NATHAN CLEVERLY

“This is a real good feeling. I’m loving the moment. I’m on the biggest stage in the boxing world. This is already a big fight between me and Jack but to be on this historic stage is truly special.

“Jack is a good, solid fighter. He’s a good operator. It’s going to be a good fight and a tough one. I’m going to take him on and get the win.

“It’s not a huge jump in weight but I think at some point in the fight he will feel the difference. At this level, it’s different than what he’s used to.

“I’m always learning in this sport. I have more experience and I’ve matured as a person and as a fighter. All around I’ve taken big steps to become a world champion again and I’m not planning to lose my title.

“It’s going to be an intense fight. There will be a lot of big exchanges of punches. Ultimately, my experience as an established light heavyweight will make the difference. I think I’ll win this fight by a wide decision.”

BADOU JACK

“I know Cleverly is a tough guy who comes to fight and I think he’s going to be perfect for my style. We have a great game plan for him.

“I’m always thinking knockout. It’s easier said than done. I’ve been robbed my last two fights so I know that I have to get this done inside of 12 rounds.

“There are bigger and better fights here in the light heavyweight division. There are a lot of big fights and money to be made in this division.

“I thought my last four fights were clear wins. But none of them were unanimous. It happens in this sport but hopefully this time I don’t have to worry about the scorecards.

“I want to fight Adonis Stevenson. But I’m not overlooking Cleverly at all. I’m 100 percent focused on this fight. After I get the win, I’m going to go after the big fights.”

ANDREW TABITI

“This is a great feeling. I’m very excited. I have a lot of great energy right now and that’s going to carry me into the fight.

“I know Steve Cunningham has a lot of experience, but I think that experience is going to lead to him underestimating me. If he does that, It’s going to be his downfall.

“I can do anything in the ring. I can box and I can brawl. Most of all I like to be smart and try to set guys up for big shots.

“It’s so motivating being in the Mayweather Boxing Club right now and seeing all of these guys put the work in. Everybody wants to be the guy who’s winning. Everyone is looking up to Floyd and trying to have a career like his. It makes you want to keep driving to be the best you can.

“I don’t know his strategy but I’m going to be smart and feel him out. This win could put me real close to superstardom. I want to get this win and become the face of the cruiserweight division in America.”

STEVE CUNNINGHAM

“This is special. Amazing doesn’t really do it justice. This is the biggest event I’ve ever been a part of. It’s unique and it’s special and I can’t wait to start off the PPV card.

“Tabiti is young, hungry and he wants to be like Floyd, in all kinds of ways. Plus, he has Floyd Mayweather Sr. in his corner and that’s dangerous. I’m taking him very seriously. I’m expecting a very good fight from this young man and I know they’re expecting the same from me.

“I know I have a mission to accomplish. Just like when I was in the Navy, we had something to do. The mission is to beat Andrew TAbiti and to win. I have to push and grind and stay away from my family for eight weeks. I’ve just been envisioning winning.

“I think a win here shows that Steve Cunningham still looks great at 41-years-old and I look forward to showing everyone on Saturday.

YORDENIS UGAS

“I feel great. I’ve worked really hard to get to this stage and I’m prepared to perform and put on a show Saturday night.

“I’m always in the gym working hard for fights like this. When the time comes and I receive the call, I’ll always be ready to challenge anyone.

“I know Dulorme is a good, quality fighter and I expect that it’s going to be a great fight for the fans. I’m going to come in strong and look to break Dulorme down and knock him out.

“I want to challenge all the top welterweights in the world and this fight will elp me get there. I’m just going to keep taking down everyone they put in front of me until I’m champion of the world.

JUAN HERALDEZ

“This is a great honor to be here and showcase my talents on this big stage. I’m thankful to Floyd and my whole team for putting me in these once-in-a-lifetime events.

“I’m an all-around boxer. I’m a boxer and a counter puncher. What it says in the books about the “sweet science”, that’s what I am.

“Borrego has to be prepared for me. I’m not really worried about what he does, I just have to go in and take care of business.

“Seeing everybody in the Mayweather Boxing Club working hard is very motivating. WE’re all trying to reach out full potential. When we deliver on Saturday it’ll be a great thing to see.

“This is going to be a great fight. I think it’s going to be very exciting. It means a lot to have this exposure and I can’t wait to deliver and watch my career grow.

JOSE MIGUEL BORREGO

“I know my opponent is very fast and talented. He’s a good test for me and I’m not taking him lightly.

“I’m the new breed of Mexican fighters. I’m aggressive and I put pressure, but I also work the angles. You’ll see a lot of big shots thrown by me.

“I’m really pleased with the exposure that I’ve gained. With that exposure comes the experience and I’m very happy with how I’ve progressed. I’m going to show how much I’ve improved on Saturday night.

“I appreciate the support that I’ve gotten and I’m going to show everyone the next superstar in this sport when I get in the ring.”

KEVIN NEWMAN

“This is a great feeling. I’m blessed to be a part of this great event but I’m not going to let it distract me from what I’m here to do.

“Training camp was fantastic. I had great sparring with Chris Eubank Jr. We put in a lot of solid, hard rounds. I pushed myself just like I do evey training cap. I’m prepared mentally and physically.

“My opponent is very active early on in fights but he starts to fade a little bit. I feel like I’m the better boxer and I’m not going to let him get comfortable. When he finds out how hard I am to hit and how much faster I am than him, he’s going to have to change up his attack.

“Everbyody in the gym has been working hard and pushing themselves to the limit. I’m just happy to be a part of it and I’m going to take advantage.

SAVANNAH MARSHALL

“This is brilliant. It’s really exciting to be here and I’m looking forward to all of it and I just want to really appreciate it.

“I’ve matured a lot since I boxed in the Olympics and I feel like I’m a lot stronger. I’ve been working on adapting to the pro style and I’m going to show a mixture of everything on Saturday.

“Over the next eight months or so I’d like to progress towards a world title. That’s my dream and I’ll ready to take it.

“Signing with Mayweather Promotions was clearly the best thing for me at the time. I wanted new experiences and I’ve certainly gotten that by being part of the stable. I’m looking forward to continuing to grow my fan base as I fight more and more.

MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event. Mayweather vs. McGregor will take place Saturday, Aug. 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV, promoted by Mayweather Promotions and sponsored by Corona. Coverage of the Prelims will begin on FOX and FOX Deportes at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

ABOUT CONSTELLATION BRANDS
Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B), a Fortune 500® company, is a leading international producer and marketer of beer, wine and spirits with operations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, New Zealand and Italy. Constellation is the No. 3 beer company in the U.S. with high-end, iconic imported brands such as Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Modelo Negra and Pacifico. The company’s beer portfolio also includes Ballast Point, one of the most awarded craft brewers in the U.S. In addition, Constellation is the world’s leader in premium wine, selling great brands that people love, including Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Kim Crawford, Meiomi, Mark West, Franciscan Estate, Ruffino and The Prisoner. The company’s premium spirits brands include SVEDKA Vodka, Casa Noble Tequila, and High West Whiskey.

Based in Victor, N.Y., the company believes that industry leadership involves a commitment to brand building, our trade partners, the environment, our investors and to consumers around the world who choose our products when celebrating big moments or enjoying quiet ones. Founded in 1945, Constellation has grown to become a significant player in the beverage alcohol industry with more than 100 brands in its portfolio, about 40 facilities and approximately 8,000 talented employees. We express our company vision: to elevate life with every glass raised. To learn more, visit www.cbrands.com.

LAS VEGAS (August 23, 2017) – Fight week for the biggest event in combat sports history continued Wednesday as Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor squared off at the final press conference ahead of the SHOWTIME PPV matchup this Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The fighters spoke to hundreds of media from all around the world as the anticipation continues to grow for this once-in-a-lifetime event that combines the worlds of boxing and MMA for one spectacular fight.

Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday from KA Theatre at MGM Grand:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

“I’ve been here so many times. I know what it takes for a fight of this magnitude. I’m thankful to everyone who has covered this event. Everyone can talk about different storylines, but it comes down to two fighters. Just me and the guy I’m competing against.

“I had a tremendous training camp. We had a lot of different guys who gave me different looks. To compete in a combat sport, you have to be a fighter at the end of the day. To be in this sport for 21 years, I had to take it extremely seriously, just like I did for this bout.

“Everyone knows I can fight. I can give it and I can take. But to get to 49-0, it’s obvious that I’m not receiving it, I’m giving it a lot more often.

“Conor McGregor is a hell of a fighter. He’s a tough competitor. It’s going to be blood sweat and tears Saturday night. That’s what we want to give people all around the world. Now it comes down to the two of us going out there and displaying our skills.

“The best fighting the best. He’s the best at what he does, I’m the best at what I do. We can both do a lot of talking, but it comes down to the skills. We’re going to compete and give you what you want to see.

“After 21 years I’ve been hit with everything and I’m still right here. One thing you must know about combat sports, if you give it, you must be able to take it. Last time I checked, no one is walking me down. It’s all about my IQ and patience in the ring.

“We’re both real fighters. We’re two huge names in combat sports. He’s made a mark the last few years and I’ve made a mark for 21 years. Now it’s time to go do what we do best and fight.

“I go out there and do what I do. I’ve been here before and fought many different fighters with different styles. There have been plenty of guys who talked a lot of trash, but when it’s all said and done, I came out victorious.

“We prepare for this every day at the Mayweather Boxing Club. We’re built for this stage. We have a lot of young fighters and guys with more experience going toe-to-toe every day. We’re always talking trash to each other and staying in each other’s ear.

“This is great for the city of Las Vegas. It’s all about giving back and I’m giving back to my home of Las Vegas. This city has welcomed me with open arms from day one. We’re doing great numbers. It’s the biggest fight in history. It’s not just a fight, it’s an event. It’s all about breaking my own records.

“I’ve said it’s not going the distance and you can mark my words. I know he’s going to come out and switch and go back and forth with stances. It’s my job to execute my game plan and adjust if I have to.”

CONOR MCGREGOR

“We’re here now. It’s a couple days out. We’ve had a lot of crazy events but this is nice and business-like. I’m very happy with how camp has gone. Everything has been absolutely amazing. I have to shout out my team and everyone who’s been involved with camp. We’re prepared for 12 rounds of nonstop pace. I will go forward and put the pressure on and break this old man.

“He made a big error agreeing to the eight ounce gloves. I don’t see him lasting two rounds. I think I could end him in one round if I want. He messed up. I’m very happy with these gloves. I don’t care where your hands are, I’m going to break through whatever is in front of me.

“I really appreciate the support from everyone back home and all over the world, it’s been very humbling and motivating. That’s why I’ve put in such hard work for this fight. I’m going to go out and perform. I’m going to out box this man at his own game. That’s how much of a different level I’m on.

“When it’s all said and done I’m going to feel a little bit sad. You should have kept your mouth shut and left me over where I was. This man is not on my level. He’s not a quarter of the man I am. Everyone is going to eat their words on Saturday.

“He’s a beaten man. He will not be able to take the ferociousness that I come with. I’m very confident. I have more skills in many areas and as a true martial artist, I can adapt to any situation.

“I’ve never missed weight in my life and it won’t be happening this time. I’ve had my nutritionist practically living with me throughout camp. We are ready and feel great at the weight right now. The weight has been taken seriously and Floyd can keep wishing that I’ll miss weight.

“I’ve made it through shin bones that bounced off my cheekbone. That’s the game I come from. They can say what they want, but I’ve come through a lot tougher than what any of these fighters he’s faced have gone through.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Mayweather vs McGregor has captured the imagination of sports fans across the world. It’s a historic event demanded by the fans and put on for the fans.

“The fighters will put their talents on display in a fight that people did not think was possible. After it’s done, people will talk about this fight for years to come.

“We’re making our event available on every possible platform. Fans across the world will have access to this great fight from anywhere.

“Boxing is at an all-time high because of some of the great matchups that have been made, and SHOWTIME has been at the forefront of that. SHOWTIME is the face of boxing and we’re proud to be partnered with them.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

“SHOWTIME PPV is the home of big events and we’ve teamed up with MGM and Mayweather Promotions to bring fans the most exciting and memorable fights in sports history. We have brought record breaking event after record breaking event; These are events that the world watches and makes history. No event is bigger than this one. Two of the biggest personalities in sports meeting in a once in a lifetime event.

“This will be the most widely distributed event in PPV history. This event will be distributed in over 200 countries and might grow to 225 countries by the time we’re done. That’s a broader distribution than virtually any other event in combat sports history. We are well on our way to being a record-setting event in many categories.”

RICHARD STURM, President of Sports and Entertainment, MGM Resorts International

“Fight week has finally arrived and we are thrilled that it will be held at T-Mobile Arena, home of the biggest events in the sports and entertainment industry. In a little over a year, T-Mobile Arena has become an industry leader and home to some of the world’s greatest athletes and entertainers.

“Las Vegas and T-Mobile Arena will be the center of the sports universe for this great spectacle. We look forward to once again showing the world that we are the leader in entertainment and we can’t wait to see you on Saturday night.”

# # #

MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event. Mayweather vs. McGregor will take place Saturday, Aug. 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV, promoted by Mayweather Promotions and sponsored by Corona.

ABOUT CONSTELLATION BRANDS
Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B), a Fortune 500® company, is a leading international producer and marketer of beer, wine and spirits with operations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, New Zealand and Italy. Constellation is the No. 3 beer company in the U.S. with high-end, iconic imported brands such as Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Modelo Negra and Pacifico. The company’s beer portfolio also includes Ballast Point, one of the most awarded craft brewers in the U.S. In addition, Constellation is the world’s leader in premium wine, selling great brands that people love, including Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Kim Crawford, Meiomi, Mark West, Franciscan Estate, Ruffino and The Prisoner. The company’s premium spirits brands include SVEDKA Vodka, Casa Noble Tequila, and High West Whiskey.

Based in Victor, N.Y., the company believes that industry leadership involves a commitment to brand building, our trade partners, the environment, our investors and to consumers around the world who choose our products when celebrating big moments or enjoying quiet ones. Founded in 1945, Constellation has grown to become a significant player in the beverage alcohol industry with more than 100 brands in its portfolio, about 40 facilities and approximately 8,000 talented employees. We express our company vision: to elevate life with every glass raised. To learn more, visit www.cbrands.com.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.t-mobilearena.com, follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @TheNotoriousMMA, @MayweatherPromo, @UFC, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/SHOSports andwww.Facebook.com/UFC

Philadelphia, PA—Undefeated junior welterweight prospect Julian Rodriguez, of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, ends a 10-month layoff when he takes on hard-hitting Dario Ferman, of El Paso, TX, in a scheduled six-round contest Friday evening, Sept. 8, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.
Topping the 10-bout card is an eight-round junior lightweight contest between Avery Sparrow, of Philadelphia, and former four-time Canadian national amateur champion Joey Laviolette, of Nova Scotia, Canada. First fight begins at 7.30 p.m.
Rodriguez, 22, known as “Hammer Hands,” was a decorated amateur, claiming a record of 221 victories in 230 fights. Among his amateur awards at 141 pounds: 2013 National Golden Gloves Championship; 2012 National PAL Championship; 2012 U.S. National Championship.
As a pro, Rodriguez is 15-0, 10 K0s, but he has not boxed since last Nov. 18 in Kissimmee, FL, when he scored two knockdowns on his way to a unanimous eight-round decision over former world-title challenger Jerry Belmontes, of Corpus Christi, TX.
Rodriguez is a member of the Top Rank stable of fighters.
“Training camp has been great and I’m ready to go,” Rodriguez said. “I don’t let the layoff or things beyond my control bother or frustrate me. I worked with Danny Garcia during the winter when he was preparing to fight Keith Thurman.
“There’s a lot of people who have natural speed and natural strength but it’s how you use it. Most of my fights I’ve been going forward, pressing the action because I have the opening. No one has really seen me box and I box really well. I know how to react to certain movements and how to read my opponent well.”
Ferman, 33, has won 14 out of 16 fights. He has scored 11 knockouts and been stopped himself twice. He’s an aggressive welterweight who will be coming down to 144 pounds against Rodriguez. At 6-foot-1, he will have a four-inch height advantage.
“As for Ferman, I haven’t seen anything I haven’t seen before,” Rodriguez said. “I enjoyeded fighting at the 2300 Arena before. The crowds there are great and they know boxing. I’m looking forward to getting back to work.”
In his only previous contest at the 2300 Arena, Rodriguez stopped Randy Fuentes, of McAllen, TX, in two rounds late in 2014.
In a six-round junior middleweight contest, Alex Sanchez, of Camden, NJ, steps in to replace the injured Roque Zapata against Elijah Vines, of Philadelphia. Zapata, of Culpeper, VA, had to withdraw last week when the middle knuckle on his right hand remained bruised following his June 24 victory over Justin Steave in the loser’s Pittsburgh, PA, backyard.
Sanchez, 34, is 5-7-2, 2 K0s, and has boxed twice in six-round fights at the 2300 Arena. He defeated lefty Robert Sweeney, of Hampton, VA, early in 2015, one month after dropping a decision there to Thomas LaManna, of Millville, NJ.
Vines, who had two fights canceled earlier this year at the last minute, has not let his past disappointments bother him.
“Canceled fights and substitutes are part of the business and I try not to let it bother me,” he said. “I don’t get frustrated; I simply move on. I’m treating this fight as the most important fight of my career. I have to; it’s the only way to get ahead.”

release header

ABOUT SEPTEMBER 8

The Rodriguez-Ferman, Sanchez-Vines and Sparrow-Laviolette bouts are part of the 10-fight card scheduled for Friday evening, Sept. 8, at the 2300 Arena, located at 2300 S. Swanson Street in South Philadelphia. First fight begins at 7.30 pm. Tickets priced at $40, $50 and $75 are on sale at the offices of Peltz Boxing (215-765-0922) and online at 2300Arena.com. The card is being promoted by Peltz Boxing Promotions, Inc., BAM Boxing, Joe Hand Promotions and Raging Babe.

New York, August 23, 2017
The wait is finally over. Star Boxing promoter Joe DeGuardia is pleased to announce the return of electrifying, power punching, former WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Champion Cletus “The Hebrew Hammer” Seldin to the ring, headlining the latest edition of the popular “Rockin” Fights” series at
The Paramount, Thursday, September 28th, in Huntington, NY.

Seldin, 19-0 16KO’S, has been inactive since June of 2016 due to various medical issues, but now feeling 100%, he is raring to go.
Seldin was laying a path of destruction on his way to a world championship fight until he was derailed by various ailments. “The Hammer” is one of the hardest punchers in the division and has drawn sellout crowds to every fight.
Promoter Joe DeGuardia had this to say about the return of Seldin “I am thrilled that Cletus will finally return to the ring. Its been a long time coming for us, Team Seldin, and all of his fans. I expect Cletus to pick up right where he left off. Make sure you get your tickets early because this will be another sellout at the Paramount.”
Cletus Seldin had this to say about his return “I’m so happy to be back in the ring. I’ve been going nuts not being able to fight. My health is back to 1000% and now I plan on continuing my quest to become a world champion”. “It’s also great to be fighting again at my home base The Paramount where all my loyal fans have supported me throughout my career”.
The opponent for Cletus Seldin shall be announced shortly. The bout will be contested for 10 rounds in the Jr. Welterweight division. The remainder of the undercard will be announced soon.
Tickets are $50 and up and are available now at Star Boxing 718 823-2000 or by going to www.starboxing.com, the Paramount Box Office 631 673-7300, or through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1 (800) 745-3000.
Rockin’ Fights are sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods, Legacy Advisors, The Inn at Fox Hollow, Camelot Limo, Montauk Ice Tea, TiedIn Media, and WBAB.

New York City (August 23, 2017) Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to announce the development of “The Real Deal Medical”, an initiative to revolutionize the standard of care for its athletes and all combat sports.
The Real Deal Medical team will consist of ARP-certified physicians from various specialties to provide the fighters with consistent medical care and maintain a medical history that will be able to track any changes in their physical or mental health. Through a partnership with Medical Arts Radiology, the Real Deal Medical will monitor the neurocognitive function of the athletes, as well as pre- and post-bout imaging studies to try to prevent any acute or chronic traumatic brain injuries.
Said boxing legend Holyfield, “The whole reason I got into the promotion game was to be the best and to do right by the fighters. This initiative demonstrates to the boxers and the rest of the world that we not only want what’s best for them during their careers, but we want what’s best for them beyond their careers. I really want to thank our committed doctors and Medical Arts Radiology for their dedication and efforts to improve the sport and protect the fighters.”
“I’ve had this vision for quite a while, and seeing it come to fruition is truly a blessing,” stated Eric Bentley, COO of Real Deal Sports & Entertainment. “There is so much good that can be done with this initiative, and I’m very grateful that Evander and Sal Musumeci, our CEO, not only believed in this venture but embraced it. Also, on behalf of Real Deal Sports & Entertainment, we are beyond proud to announce our partnership with Medical Arts Radiology and the vision Dr. Steven Tuzinkiewicz and his partners have to revolutionize the health and safety standards in ringside medicine.”
Continued Bentley, “I’ve had the opportunity to observe the sport from both the promotional and the regulatory side. Many fighters don’t have health coverage and the only time most of them see a doctor is when they fight. Each state has a different roster of physicians, as well as inconsistent medical requirements and standards. There is no way for there to be an efficient way to track each fighters’ history from state-to-state, fight-to-fight, and we’re going to change that. These athletes are risking their lives every time they step in the gym and step in the ring; we owe it to them to make sure they go home to their loved ones and do the best we can to make sure they’re able to live their lives comfortably once their careers are over.”
Said Dr. Steven Tuzinkiewicz, CEO of Medical Arts Radiology, “We are excited about our partnership with Real Deal Sports and Entertainment and look forward to contributing to the health of the fighters.”
About Medical Arts Radiology:
For over 70 years, Medical Arts Radiology has provided Long Island patients with the latest advances in diagnostic imaging. Their commitment to providing the highest level of care begins with its doctors, all board-certified with extensive experience and advanced specialty training. Medical Arts Radiology has 9 sites, which are accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), recognized as the gold standard in medical imaging. Their sites have also earned designation as Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence by the ACR.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions
Twitter: @TheRealDealBox
Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxing
Website: www.TheRealDealBoxing.com

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the IBF will abolish 2nd day weigh ins in unifications bouts.

“Second-day weigh-ins will remain in effect for all other [IBF] bouts,” IBF president Daryl Peoples told ESPN. “We changed the second-day weigh-in for unifications after we received a request from one of our members. We had discussed changing the rule prior to the request.

“Naturally, we would like to see both fighters participate in the second-day weigh-in for safety reasons. However, we found that some fighters were not participating in the second-day weigh-ins, and those fighters that complied with the rule had a disadvantage due to weight disparities on fight day.”

Former world champion Juan Carlos Payano won a ten round unanimous decision over Alexis Santiago in a super bantamweight bout at Sam’s Town in Las Vegas.

Payano was cut over his left eye fro an overhand right in round three.

Payano, 120.6 lbs of Santiago, DR won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice, and is now 19-1. Santiago, 120.4 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 24-5-1.

“I felt like I was winning every single round,” said Payano. “There were small moments on the inside that I gave away but I think I did the better work each round.”

“The strategy was to wear him down and then really try to walk him down and take him out,” said Payano. “Santiago was a little too tough for his own good so I kept some distance at times and controlled the fight.”

“I felt the long layoff when I got in there,” said Santiago. “I was a little tight and I loaded up too much instead of using my speed.”

“I want my titles back,” said Payano. “I don’t care who is holding which titles at 118 and 122 pounds. I’ll fight anyone and show I’m still a champion.”

“I thought the fight was a little closer,” said Santiago. “He did more work than me but I thought I had good moments. I wanted to box him a little more but I couldn’t find my range so I just tried to close down the gaps. We just have to go back to the drawing board and stay more active. I want to get a tune-up fight then get right back to fighting top guys.”

Ladarius Miller won a ten round unanimous decision over former U.S. Olympian Jamel Herring in a light weight bout.

In round six, Miller began to bleed from his nose.

Miller, 134.8 lbs of Las Vegas, NV, won by scores of 98-92 and 97-93 twice, and is now 14-1. Herring, 134.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH is now 16-2.

“I know I out-jabbed him,” said Miller. “When we jabbed each other, I thought my jab was stronger than his. I gave him two different styles. There were times where I walked him down and times where I boxed him.”

“I thought it was a close fight,” said Herring. “I thought when I came forward and pressed the fight he started retreating and moving.”

“I thought 97-93 was the right score,” said Miller. “I took it easy in round nine and felt him out in the first two rounds. But the rest of the fight I felt like I dominated. It’s a process. I’m just climbing the ladder right now. I want to get another test and fight more strong fighters. I want to be on the biggest stages. I’m ready for the step up.”

“I thought I landed some heavy shots in there and was more aggressive,” said Herring. “Obviously the judges saw it differently. I’ll get back with my team and see what’s next, but I did think I won the fight. I thought I won the last two rounds and pulled it out.”

LAS VEGAS (August 22, 2017) – Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor official kicked off fight week events Tuesday with grand arrivals at the Toshiba Plaza ahead of the SHOWTIME PPV event this Saturday, Aug. 26 taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Also making an official grand arrival in Las Vegas was unbeaten Francisco Fonseca, who challenges 130-pound champion Gervonta Davis, plus light heavyweight titleholder Nathan Cleverly and former 168-pound champion Badou Jack, who meet in a 12-round title fight on the PPV undercard. The SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten Andrew Tabiti and former world champion Steve Cunningham meeting in a 10-round battle after making their grand arrivals Tuesday.

Fighters were greeted by fans at the Toshiba Plaza before making brief remarks onstage. Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

“When there’s a fight of this magnitude, it’s all about keeping composure and that’s what I do. I go out there and do my job and let the rest take care of itself. This is huge, the numbers that we’ve been hearing about, they’ve been crazy.

“McGregor is a tough competitor. He’s undefeated standing up. He’s never lost when striking. I know that I’m in for a tough fight. But there is one thing I do know, this fight is not going the distance. No matter what anyone says, it’s not going the distance.

“This is work. This is my job. My job is to fight and compete against the best guys. You know when your body has had enough and this is it for me. I gave my word already about this being my last fight. Once I gave my word to my children, and once I gave my word to Al, I knew this was it. This is a great event. What better way to go out than with a bang?

“I just go out there and fight. I don’t worry about my record. I’ve been blessed with hands and fast feet and a tremendous mind. It’ll all be on display Saturday night.

“A lot of fighters now only want the money. They don’t want to put in the hard work early in their careers. I took the long route and I’ve been here for a while. I just love the sport and competing against the best guys.

“It’s all about the future and building stars. Mayweather Promotions is the future of sports and entertainment. It’ll be a great display this week.

“I’m doing this for myself and my family but I want to give everyone a great show. Everyone deserves a good show. The Pacquiao fight wasn’t exciting enough. That was on Pacquiao, but I have to give the fans a great show this time.”

CONOR MCGREGOR

“Floyd can talk about whatever he wants to talk about. He can talk any kind of trash he wants, because he’s talking to the new God of boxing.

“I like the move from five to three minute rounds. I feel like I’ve built a solid engine that is going to last me through the rest of my career and help me in the fight. We’ve put in the work. I’ve fought many 12-rounders.

“The Irish are rolling in and whenever we roll in, we take over. It was amazing to see all the Irish fans out today. It’s going to be a great spectacle.

“If people are overlooking my size, power and youth, they shouldn’t be. I’m very confident in those attributes. I believe I’ll knock him out early.

“If you look at the way I fight, I am a fast starter. I come out and bang people right away. With eight ounce gloves, I don’t see him lasting more than one or two rounds.

“I am my own man and I feel I am superior to Floyd. When it comes to Saturday night, he will not be prepared for me.

“I cannot wait to get in the on Saturday night and perform in front of my fans and take my place at the top of this sport.”

FRANCISCO FONSECA

“We are ready for anything Gervonta Davis will bring. We had a great training camp and I’m in optimal condition to go win that title.

“I am ready and excited to be here in Las Vegas for this great challenge. It’s amazing to have a chance to fight for a world title.

“It’s always been my dream to fight here in Las Vegas. I’m going to start out strong from the first round. If a knockout comes, it comes, but what I do know is, is that I’m going to leave the ring with that world title on Saturday night.”

NATHAN CLEVERLY

“I just love this place. This is my favorite city on the planet. To fight here in Las Vegas and defend my world title is great. Badou is a top fighter and it’s going to be a tough fight. He’s fighting an established light heavyweight like myself. I’m a two-time champion of the world and he’s going to find out what I’m about.

“I just told him welcome to the division. He’s going to find out the hard way. I’m going to give him a rude introduction to the division and show him how a world champion does it.

“This is an interesting fight with two world class fighters. I’m going to leave here with the victory on Saturday night.

“It’s already a big fight with Badou Jack, but to be part of this event, it’s truly historic. It’s a special feeling.”

BADOU JACK

“Right now I’m just excited to be here in front of the fans. I can’t wait to put on a show Saturday night. I’m going to knock Nathan Cleverly out.

“This is the best camp I’ve had of my career. I have an amazing team and we’ve worked well together. I’m ready to get in the ring.

“This is the biggest stage you can be on. All my my teammates have been training hard and the whole Mayweather Promotions stable is ready to fight.”

ANDREW TABITI

“I’m very excited and I’m thankful to everyone that came out here today. This is a great chance for me to shine.

“It’s wonderful to share this card with my Mayweather Promotions stable. We work hard and we’re really up and training hard for this opportunity.

“Steve Cunningham has done a great job in his career, but it’s time for a new face of the American cruiserweights. I’m getting the victory, that’s all there is.”

STEVE CUNNINGHAM

“I feel a lot younger than my age. I feel great and I’m ready to rock. I do my talking in the ring and I can’t wait to get in there.

“It’s great to be on this stage. It’s my first time on a pay-per-view and it’s amazing. This is a huge fight and it’s a blessing to be there.

“I don’t make predictions but I come to fight and I come to win. You have a young fighter coming to take me down but I’m going to show him what I know.”

# # #

MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR
Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor is a 12-round super welterweight matchup that pits the legendary boxer Mayweather against the all-time MMA great McGregor in the main event of an unprecedented four-fight pay-per-view boxing event. Mayweather vs. McGregor will take place Saturday, Aug. 26 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV, promoted by Mayweather Promotions and sponsored by Corona.

ABOUT CONSTELLATION BRANDS
Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ and STZ.B), a Fortune 500® company, is a leading international producer and marketer of beer, wine and spirits with operations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, New Zealand and Italy. Constellation is the No. 3 beer company in the U.S. with high-end, iconic imported brands such as Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Modelo Negra and Pacifico. The company’s beer portfolio also includes Ballast Point, one of the most awarded craft brewers in the U.S. In addition, Constellation is the world’s leader in premium wine, selling great brands that people love, including Robert Mondavi, Clos du Bois, Kim Crawford, Meiomi, Mark West, Franciscan Estate, Ruffino and The Prisoner. The company’s premium spirits brands include SVEDKA Vodka, Casa Noble Tequila, and High West Whiskey.

Based in Victor, N.Y., the company believes that industry leadership involves a commitment to brand building, our trade partners, the environment, our investors and to consumers around the world who choose our products when celebrating big moments or enjoying quiet ones. Founded in 1945, Constellation has grown to become a significant player in the beverage alcohol industry with more than 100 brands in its portfolio, about 40 facilities and approximately 8,000 talented employees. We express our company vision: to elevate life with every glass raised. To learn more, visit www.cbrands.com.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.t-mobilearena.com, follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @TheNotoriousMMA, @MayweatherPromo, @UFC, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, www.Facebook.com/SHOSports andwww.Facebook.com/UFC

ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2017) – Unbeaten heavyweight LaRon Mitchell (15-0, 13 KOs) wrapped up his training camp in preparation for the first title defense of his career against Michael Bissett (14-9, 8 KOs) this Friday, Aug. 25, from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

The San Francisco-based Mitchell will defend his Jr. NABF heavyweight title in the 8-round “Path to Glory” main event.

Tickets for “Path to Glory” sold out quickly, prompting Thompson Boxing to add an additional section of seating. Those tickets will be available for purchase at the door on the day of the event (this Friday) starting at 6:00 p.m. local time.

Thompson Boxing caught up with Mitchell and asked him about what kind of challenge Bissett may pose, the pressures of defending a title, and the difficulties between managing two careers – one in boxing and the other as an educator.

On Friday night, you’ll be defending your Jr. NABF Heavyweight Title for the first time. How do you keep your emotions in check for what will likely be a very tough fight?

“Everything that I’ve accomplished up to this point is going to help me get a win on Friday. I’ve been in high pressure fights before so this isn’t anything new. I’m really good at just living in the moment and not worrying about any outside noise.”

As a heavyweight, you don’t face the same diet restrictions associated with making a particular weight. Heavyweights, however, do have a target weight that they’d like to hit. How did that process go for this fight?

“I actually had to put on some weight during training camp. I hit the cardio harder than usual, which caused me to drop down in weight. I was able to put it back on gradually. I’ll be good for Friday night.

How did you prepare for Michael Bissett?

“I worked on being involved in a scrappy, nasty fight. Bissett doesn’t mind being in that kind of a fight. He likes to set a lot of traps. He doesn’t have a problem with holding and making you uncomfortable. He’s a blue-collar type of fighter.”

When you’re not training for a fight, people can find you teaching physical education at St. Elizabeth’s (K-8) in Oakland, Calif. For this fight against Bissett, you had the convenience of being on summer vacation. How did that help you in your training?

“It’s beautiful because I’m able to get in third workouts whenever I want. It’s almost impossible for me to get in a third workout when school is in session. Also, mentally I don’t have to worry about anything else but what I’m doing in the ring.”

What do you want to see from yourself on Friday night from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

“Just continue to get better in every aspect. I want to see better speed and accuracy. I’ve worked really hard on punch placement and angles. On defense, I can’t let him get inside and land the compact body shots.”

The second championship fight of the night showcases featherweight Erick Ituarte (17-1-1, 2 KOs) defending his Jr. NABF title against Alberto Torres (10-0-2, 4 KOs) in the co-feature bout (8-rounds).

The featured bout on the undercard pits unbeaten junior welterweights Roberto Meza (8-0, 4 KOs) of Temecula, Calif. and Giovanni Cabrera-Mioletti (8-0, 2 KOs) of Chicago (6-rounds).

Watch the LIVESTREAM: TB Presents: Path to Glory on ThompsonBoxing.com or on the Thompson Boxing Facebook Page beginning at 8:00 p.m. PST / 11:00 p.m. EST.

The “Path to Glory” broadcast team features Beto Duran on play-by-play, with Steve Kim providing expert color commentary.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 8:00 p.m. The Omega Products International is located at 1681 California Ave., Corona, CA 92881 and can be reached at 951-737-7447.

“Path to Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Lucas Oil, in association with Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #PathToGlory, #TBPresents, and #ThompsonBoxing.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

PHILADELPHIA – Philly Boxing History announced today that former two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham will be the celebrity guest host of the 10th Annual Briscoe Awards at Xfinity Live! Philadelphia, on October 15, 2017.

“It’s an honor,” Cunningham said of being named the guest host. “I’m happy and proud. I’m going to do my best.”

Cunningham was the very first recipient of the “Philly Fighter of the Year” Briscoe Award in 2007, and won the same award three years later. Overall, Cunningham has won a total five Briscoe Awards through the years, also winning for “2014 Philly Fight of the Year” (vs. Amir Mansour), and the “Performance of the Year” in both 2012 and 2014.

“The Bennie Briscoe Award was the first Philly organization to step up and really show appreciation for the things that I was doing,” Cunningham said. “I’ve been a world champ, but didn’t get the shine that some world champs would have. But the Bennie Briscoe Awards have always been there, not just for me but for every Philly fighter. I think every city should do this for their fighters, but they don’t. That’s what makes the Briscoe Awards so special.”

“Steve is the most decorated fighter in the Briscoe Awards’ ten year history AND he was our very first “Fighter of the Year” winner,” said John DiSanto of Philly Boxing History Inc. “He’s the perfect person to guest host our 10th annual celebration. Steve has always represented the Briscoe Awards well, and it will be great to have him back on the stage in a whole new role.”

First up however, Cunningham fights undefeated Andrew Tabiti for the NABF cruiserweight title on the Mayweather-McGregor mega-card, this Saturday night in Las Vegas. The ten round bout opens the Pay-Per-View TV broadcast.

ABOUT THE BRISCOE AWARDS ON OCTOBER 15 FROM 1-4 PM

The Briscoe Awards are named in honor of legendary Philly middleweight Bennie Briscoe and the trophies given away – the Briscoe Statue and the Briscoe Medal – all bear the deceased icon’s likeness. The event brings together the local boxing community, including the award winners, their families, past and present boxers, fight fans, other boxing people, and general sports fans.

This is the tenth year for the Briscoe Awards, which are presented by Philly Boxing History Inc., a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization, dedicated to preserving and celebrating Philadelphia’s great boxing legacy. Past winners at the Briscoe Awards include Bernard Hopkins, Danny Garcia, Steve Cunningham, and many others.

The event returns to Xfinity Live! Philadelphia, the central hub of Philly’s sports stadiums, located at 1100 Pattison Avenue in South Philadelphia. Admission is $5, and tickets can be purchased at BriscoeAwards.com or by calling 609-377-6413. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, including sponsorship and advertising opportunities, please call John DiSanto, 609-377-6413 / johndisanto@phillyboxinghistory.com

The 10th Annual Briscoe Awards will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2017, 1-4 PM, at Xfinity Live!, 1100 Pattison Avenue in South Philadelphia.