By Bart Barry-

Saturday Mexican super middleweight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez will defend the lineal middleweight championship of the world, not to be confused with the PBC middleweight championship or the HBO middleweight championship, against Britain’s Amir “King” Khan, currently the WBC’s silver champion of the welterweight division. The match will happen in Las Vegas on pay-per-view, naturally.

All the boxes are checked – Face Off, 24/7, Greatest Hits – but interest is wholly wanting.

I’ve been ringside for fights enough of Canelo’s to know they’re better in person than via television yet I hadn’t a farthing of an impetus or a modicum of that farthing to travel to see this fight. Amir Khan has never struck me as better than a highlight reel of nationalistic and ethnic special effects. Surely some Brits and lots of Pakistanis feel something like pride when they watch him, but in many more cases, I infer, persons claim to be impressed by Khan because their own box-checking told them to be so: Handsome, well-spoken, fast hands, bilingual, beloved by others.

That was certainly Oscar De La Hoya and Richard Schaefer’s calculation way back when. Not too long after Khan – an Olympic silver medalist, have you heard? – got plastercracked by Breidis Prescott in 2008, he won a cynical rehabilitation match against Marco Antonio Barrera 18 months after Barrera resigned his ownership stake in Golden Boy Promotions by retiring, and not long after that Khan began appearing at ringside as Oscar’s guest.

After racing through Paulie Malignaggi in the best performance of his career Khan raced away from Marcos Maidana in the expiring moments of their 2010 match – a performance that couldn’t be talked to pretty. The image of Khan in perimeter-hopping flight, eyes wide, tail high, pride low, endures and endures. It’s why many of us cheered for Danny Garcia in 2012, seven months after Khan lost a decision to Lamont Peterson. Garcia uncorked Khan with a left hook that’s aged better than both Garcia and Khan.

Then it was back to the rehabilitation circuit for King Khan, a string of decision victories against opponents a prizefighter of Khan’s celebrity should not have needed judges to best. After making Chris Algieri, a small welterweight, look formidable enough to get Algieri recently fed to a PBC prospect, a year ago Khan settled in for a victory hibernation. It took a cashout arrangement for Khan and his advisor – I’m going to cash you out, Amir, because I’m out of cash – to get Khan back in the ring, this time in a match for the lineal middleweight championship of the world Cinnamon Alvarez beat from the waist of Miguel Cotto who won the title from a cripple who decisioned a drunk.

Which mightn’t be amusing as it is were it not for the purists now propped high on their hindlegs by dudgeon for Canelo’s refusal to defend this august title above 155 pounds. Gennady “He’ll Fight Anyone Between 154 and 168 Pounds” Golovkin, the reigning, defending and undisputed middleweight champion of HBO, may not have a chance to sue posterity for greatness, his partisans fear, if he cannot accumulate on his record some marquee welterweights or 154-pounders willing to face him at the middleweight limit.

Fans are now clamoring for Canelo to fight Golovkin, except they aren’t. HBO is clamoring for Canelo to fight Golovkin for a combination of reasons like: The Golovkin marketing budget is starting to outpace its effect. Most idiots left boxing with Money May, and the aficionados who remain are more interested in great matches than abetting networks’ lame starsystems, which means the HBO middleweight champion will never get back on pay-per-view without either luring Canelo into a match with him or, heaven forbid, moving up in weight and challenging himself.

Golovkin won’t move up in weight for the same reason Canelo won’t move up in weight: Why the hell take a risk when there are millions to be made by not taking risks? And before you say “Posterity!” wipe that smirk off your face.

Nobody thinks Canelo will beat Golovkin at 160 pounds – so how does anyone expect the disinterested among us to believe there is clamoring for a match whose promotional tagline would be “Ratify Golovkin!”? Canelo knows this, and Canelo knows he is the AAA-side in a match with Golovkin, and he is behaving like it. A question for those who sincerely believe Golovkin’s starching Canelo at 160 pounds is what’s best for our beleaguered sport: Then what? Canelo is off pay-per-view till he can be rehabilitated, and Golovkin has no one to fight with his easy new prestige. Or is the idea actually to harangue the welterweight champion of the world out of retirement?

Goodness, stop it.

Back to Saturday’s spectacle. The best outcome is Khan, SD-12: A narrow, controversial decision in which Khan outbusies Canelo, who shows massive amounts of frustration for his loyal fans at Khan’s unwillingness to engage in a manly way. Oscar, Canelo’s promoter, can get in the ring afterward and tell us about protesting the decision and hiring investigators and so forth. The WBC – to whom Golovkin’s folks pretend they’ve pinned dreams of fairplay; yet in whose sweatsuit Canelo trains – can order an immediate rematch, and knowing Canelo will win that by prefilled scorecards emulate Hollywood by ordering a sequel to the rematch at the same time they order the rematch, filling Canelo’s calendar until Mexican Independence Day 2017, time enough for him to grow in to a middleweight while Golovkin grows out of one.

Some folks will remember Canelo didn’t move up to 160 pounds while Golovkin was still there. Some folks remember Golovkin didn’t move up to 168 while Andre Ward was still there. As we’ve seen, though, that’s nothing some quality agitprop can’t fix.

I’ll take Canelo, KO-8, because, who are we kidding, Khan has no chin.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter @bartbarry

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (April 29, 2016) – Undefeated lightweight world champion Rances “Kid Blast” Barthelemy (24-0, 13 KOs) will make his first title defense against former world champion Mickey “The Spirit” Bey (22-1-1, 10 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spike Friday, June 3 at the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT as unbeaten Puerto Rican prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez (14-0, 10 KOs) takes on hard-hitting Mexican Victor “Pitufo” Proa (28-1-2, 21 KOs) in a 10-round bantamweight affair.

“There were rumors that a fight between me and Mickey Bey was on the brink of happening prior to my fight against Denis Shafikov, so now that it is here, I know it was destined to happen,” said Barthelemy. “I’m not a rookie anymore. I’m not going into this worried or nervous about it being my first title defense at 135. I’m comfortable enough now to see every fight as just another challenge I need to execute my game plan the most effectively and with the least amount of errors.”

“Barthelemy won my title, I had to vacate it due to a hand injury, so all he is doing is keeping it warm for me,” said Bey. “Training camp is going great. I have been training hard for over a month. I have the best team in the business, with the most knowledgeable trainers. I’m looking forward to the challenge with him being undefeated and a two-time world champion. We both have a lot of skills, so it will make an entertaining fight for sure.”

“I want to challenge all of the bantamweight champions to fight me so they can see a real athlete in the ring,” said Rodriguez. “I have been training hard. This is a lifestyle for me. I have been training since December and on June 3, I am going to deliver a knockout.”

“I’m excited about this opportunity against a good young fighter,” said Proa. “I’ve been training hard and feel like this is my time. I’m going to come forward and see what this guy can do.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60 and $35 and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m. *Additional fees may apply.

“This will be a tremendous night of boxing on Spike TV,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions. “Barthelemy is an up-and-coming star in the sport and he is facing a former world champion who never lost his belt in the ring. This will be a great fight and there should be a great atmosphere with a lot of Cuban boxing fans there to support their world champion.”

“We’re looking forward to bringing a great night of boxing to the State of Florida. We’re giving the fans another treat come June 3rd. The card is stacked with matchups that will undoubtedly be crowd pleasers,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Both Mickey Bey and Rances Barthelemy have world titles under their belts, so they will bring in the experience of being able to perform, and match it up against one another to see who will come out the best man standing at the end of the night.”

“We at Panther Promotions are very excited for this June 3rd card at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino,” said Elliot Alvarado, CEO, Panther Promotions. “We are proudly joining forces with both Mayweather and Kings Promotions, which are featuring PBC on Spike TV. This is going to be a sensational evening of boxing featuring Cuban Lightweight Champion Rances Barthelemy vs. Cleveland’s own former champion, Mickey Bey. Our goal is to bring back the classic fights to the Seminole Hard Rock Live in South Florida.”

A Cuban amateur national champion, 29-year-old Barthelemy has yet to taste defeat since turning pro in 2009. Born in Cuba but now fighting out of Las Vegas, he won a super featherweight world title in July 2014 by defeating Argenis Mendez in impressive fashion, and followed that up with a second round TKO victory over Angino Perez. After dominating former champion Antonio DeMarco in June, he won a world title in a second division when he impressively defeated Denis Shafikov in December.

Bey won his world title in 2014 with a decision victory over long reigning champion Miguel Vasquez. The 32-year-old vacated his title due to inactivity and injuries but returned in December to defeat previously unbeaten Naim Nelson by decision to earn himself a shot at the very title he vacated. Bey’s previous victories include defeats against Alan Herrera, Carlos Cardenas and Hector Velazquez.

At just 23-years-old, Rodriguez has been on a fast track towards a world title fight since turning pro in 2012. He made his U.S. debut in November by stopping Eliecer Aquino after previously taking down Gabor Molnar, Luis Hinojosa and Alex Rangel in 2015. The Manati, Puerto Rico-born fighter will bring his exciting style into the ring against another tough opponent on June 3.

Fighting out of Monterrey, Mexico, Proa will be fighting in the U.S. for the third time when he takes on Rodriguez on June 3. The 31-year-old was unbeaten in his first 28 pro starts and has won his last two bouts, including most recently a first round stoppage of Oswaldo Delgado in February.

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @RealKidBlast, @MickeyBeyTMT, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports, @KingsBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @PantherPromo and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and
www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.

2 May 2016 – Singapore: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has announced the addition of three key senior hires to join its executive leadership team. Pithambar Gona joins as ONE Championship’s Chief Financial Officer, Kevin Sim as Head of Media Rights Sales, and Kevin Matas as Head of Marketing.

CEO of ONE Championship, Victor Cui stated, “I am thrilled to announce the addition of world-class business leaders at ONE Championship to drive our next stage of global growth. Without a doubt, we sit here today as Asia’s most successful sports media property in history because of the amazing leaders and staff at ONE Championship. With the addition of Preet, Kevin, and Kevin, our senior leadership team is now the most globally-seasoned corporate leadership team in the entire sports media industry in Asia. I have never been more excited for the future of ONE Championship.”

Prior to joining ONE Championship, Pithambar (“Preet”) Gona was most recently a Managing Director at Blackstone, one of the world’s largest and most successful investment firms, where he worked for approximately 7 years, most recently based in Singapore. As Blackstone’s first investment professional in Singapore, Gona launched and led the firm’s private equity business in Southeast Asia. During his tenure, Blackstone’s overall operations in Singapore grew to more than 35 professionals. Before joining Blackstone in 2008 as a founding member of its Asian M&A advisory business in Hong Kong, Gona worked as an Associate at Lehman Brothers in Hong Kong. Gona received an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, a Masters in Manufacturing Management from the Pennsylvania State University and a BE with distinction in Mechanical Engineering from Osmania University in India.

Hailing from Red Bull, the leading energy drink & one of the top action sports media brands in the world, Kevin Matas is a seasoned marketing & social media executive who has spent his career building, launching, and developing various brand and media properties. Most recently, Matas was in charge of Red Bull’s entire social media platform in the US: social media strategy, programming, content development, community management, and analytics across various platforms (with a collective audience of 50 million followers). Matas was also a key part of the pioneering team that launched Red Bull’s monthly magazine (The Red Bulletin) in the United States. Heading up all marketing efforts for the magazine, he led the charge in production, distribution, audience development, brand management, brand activations, partnerships, and social media. During his tenure, the Red Bulletin’s audience grew from 0 – 315,000 print subscribers in 3 short years, making it the fastest growing active-lifestyle magazine in the U.S.

Kevin Sim is a world-class media executive with a sharp focus on media rights sales in Asia. As a sales and marketing executive, Sim was part of the pioneering team of MP & Silva as its 3rd employee, and played a pivotal role as Marketing Director in transforming the upstart into one of the world’s premier international sports media distribution companies. He played an active role in driving TV and media rights for sports federations, leagues, clubs and rights holders. Sim also has significant experience as a regional commercial director at MCA where he held a number of key sales and commercial roles across Asia-Pacific, including sales, partnership, business development and distribution roles. At MCA, Kevin led all aspects of commercial responsibilities for the firm and its umbrella of channel and media partners, which includes Bloomberg Television, ITV Choice (Granada), Outdoor Channel, amongst others.

For more updates on ONE Championship™, please visit www.onefc.com and follow Twitter and Instagram @ONEFCMMA and Facebook atwww.facebook.com/ONEFCMMA.

About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship is the largest sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, the world’s most exciting mixed martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia featuring the best Asian mixed martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. ONE Championship is broadcast to over 1 billion viewers across 75+ countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including FOX Sports, Setanta, MNC, Astro, Thairath TV, ABS-CBN, TV5, Physique TV, MYTV, HTV, Esporte Interativo and more.

Badou Jack retained the WBC Super Middleweight title via a dubious 12-round majority draw with former IBF champion Lucian Bute

Bute was cut around the right eye in round three from an elbow.  It seemed like Jack controlled the first ten rounds with superior boxing ability and worked the body.  Bute worked hard but he didn’t seem to make the imprint that Jack was making.  It looked like Jack was get to the finish with a comfortable decision but two judges saw it differently as they saw it 114-114.  Jack deservedly won a card 117-111.

Jack, 167.4 lbs of Stickholm, SWE is now 20-1-2.  Bute, 167 lbs of Laval, CAN is 32-3-1.

“Let’s unify the decision and see who the best is,” DeGale said to Jack in a post-fight interview moderated by SHOWTIME Sports reporter Jim Gray.

“I’m ready in September, ready in August,” responded Jack.” “I’m ready whenever. Let’s do it where it makes the most sense financially.”

“Bullshit, but is what it is. Ask Bute as well, he knows what time it is,” said Jack, who landed nearly 100 more punches than Bute, including 61 percent of his power punches, and 40 percent total of his total shots. “His punches weren’t hurting me. I feel I won the fight. Maybe I lost the last round. He’s a great guy and a great champion, but I know I won the fight.

“It’s not Bute’s fault, it’s the judges. People saw I won the fight.”

“It was a close fight,” said Bute, who connected at just a 21 percent rate with his total punches. “Believe me, it was very close fight. My last fight with DeGale was very close, tonight was a very close fight. I showed everyone I’m still at the top.”

James DeGale retained the IBF Super Middleweight championship with a 12-round unanimous decision over Rogelio Medina.

DeGale won on skills as he landed a the sharper punches but Medina pressed the action and stayed in the chest of DeGale.  DeGale fought well as he showcased some nice upper cuts as Medina worked the body effectively.

DeGale, 167.6 lbs of Harlesdon, UK won by scores of 117-111 twice and 115-113.  Medina, 167.8 lbs of Hermosillo, MX is 36-7.

“The boxing skills are too good,” DeGale said. “If I’m being honest, he’s a very strong fighter, but skills pay the bills. I watched this guy years ago and he didn’t have the engine like that. He’s gotten better and stronger in the last year and a half.

“I’m a bit disappointed – I should be taking out people like Porky Medina, no disrespect to him.

“I’m always learning in the gym. My inside work, my defense, my concentration. I’m going to go back to the gym, I’m going to work and I’ll be ready in September.

“I want Badou Jack. I want a fresh name on my record.”

“The boxing skills are too good,” DeGale said. “If I’m being honest, he’s a very strong fighter, but skills pay the bills. I watched this guy years ago and he didn’t have the engine like that. He’s gotten better and stronger in the last year and a half.

“I’m a bit disappointed – I should be taking out people like Porky Medina, no disrespect to him.

“I’m always learning in the gym. My inside work, my defense, my concentration. I’m going to go back to the gym, I’m going to work and I’ll be ready in September.

“I want Badou Jack. I want a fresh name on my record.”

 

Anabel Ortiz made the seventh defense of the WBA Minimumweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Katia Gutierrez at the Interview with San Fernando Gymnasium in Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico.

Ortiz won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 20-3. Gutierrez is now 19-7.

Pedro Campa stopped former world champion Jose Alfaro when Alfaro stayed on his stool and took a count as the fifth round started.

Campa, 140 lbs is now 21-0 with 17 knockouts. Alfaro, 140 lbs is now 28-10-1.

RYAN WALSH TKO5 (2:34) VS. JAMES TENNYSON

The British Featherweight Championship

12 X 3 Minute Rounds at 126lbs

Ryan Walsh emphatically defended his British Featherweight title against Belfast’s James Tennyson at Stratford’s Copper Box Arena. Walsh, 29, put his opponent down with two solid body shots in the fifth round before the referee waved off the contest at 2 minutes 34 seconds.

In a cagey opening round it was Tennyson who looked the more comfortable, earning Walsh’s respect with a series of solid straight rights. The second round started in a similar fashion before Walsh took control of the bout, landing a wave of stiff right hands on the Belfast man. Tennyson was down for the first time in the second round after Walsh connected with a crippling body shot.

A plucky response from Tennyson in the third bought him some time but Walsh, supported by his noisy Farmy Army, continued to take hold of the fight. History-making Walsh was making his shots count; picking Tennyson off with solid jabs.

Walsh carved his name into the boxing history records last September when he joined super-featherweight brother Liam as the first set of twins to simultaneously hold British titles and looked determined to keep hold of his prize.

The British title was won in the fifth round after the impressive Cromer star put Irishman Tennyson down with another crippling body shot. A brave Tennyson beat the referees count before the contest was waved-off at 2 minutes 38 seconds.

ANTHONY NELSON VS. JAMIE CONLAN WTKO8

The Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship

12 X 3 Minute Rounds at 115lbs

Belfast hero Jamie Conlan claimed the Commonwealth Super-Flyweight title from South Shields’ Anthony Nelson in what will surely go down as the fight of the year. The all-action Irishman finally won the gripping tear-up in the eighth round after putting the brave Nelson down for a final time.

In an explosive opening round both men were happy to trade huge blows. Conlan took the first round by dropping his South Shields opponent, despite already suffering from a nasty cut on his left eye.

In the second round both men continued to throw bombs at will in what was already developing into a classic. It was blink and you’ll miss it stuff at the Copper Box Arena as the gripping Commonwealth title dustup captivated the crowd.

Conlan went down for the first time in the third round after being caught by a solid shot from the resurgent Nelson. Fight fans around the world were witnessing a true barn-burner as both men threw everything they had at each other.

‘Baby Faced’ Nelson went down for a second time in the fifth as Conlan looked for a big finish. Amazingly, Nelson recovered again and began to take control of the bout at the half way point. 30 year-old Nelson appeared to be stronger after his second knockdown and began to dictate the speed of the fight.

Braveheart Conlan claimed the Commonwealth title in the eighth round after flooring Nelson with a crippling left hook to the body. Ultimately it was Conlan who came away with the Commonwealth title but both men won the hearts of all those watching with truly heroic performances.

HUGHIE FURY WPTS4 (69-66, 70-64, 69-65) VS. FRED KASSI

The Vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship

12 X 3 Minute Rounds

Manchester heavyweight prospect Hughie Fury outpointed Fred Kassi to claim his first professional title in the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight championship at the Copper Box Arena. Fury, cousin of World Heavyweight Champion Tyson, looked in complete control of the bout before the referee stopped the contest in the sixth round after a cut to Fury’s left eye caused by an accidental clash of heads left him unable to continue.

New Orleans-based Kassi attempted to make life difficult for Fury by switching between orthodox and southpaw but 21 year-old Fury comfortably dealt with everything thrown his way. A low key third round saw Fury move from second gear into third, still dictating the pace of a tactical bout.

A nasty gash on undefeated Fury’s left eye began to open up after an accidental clash of heads in the sixth round. With blood streaming down the heavyweight prospect’s face an early stoppage loomed. The referee decided to end the title contest in the eighth round after taking a close look at the damaged eye.

With Fury unable to continue it went to the judges’ score cards. All three judges scored the fight in Fury’s favour (69-66, 70-64, 69-65) and the mancunian heavyweight destroyer took his record to 20-0.

LIAM WALSH WTKO8 (1:22) VS. TROY JAMES

THE BRITISH AND COMMONWEALTH SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

12 X 3 Minute Rounds at 130lbs

Cromer’s British and Commonwealth super-featherweight Champion Liam Walsh defended his titles with an eighth round stoppage win over Troy James to retain both his titles on the same night that twin brother Ryan emphatically defended his British title against James Tennyson; another first for British boxing.

Walsh, who had been out of action since suffering a hand injury in the build up to his WBO world title eliminator against Petr Petrov, didn’t show any signs of ring rust as he soaked up an energetic flurry of shots form James.

Both men were made to miss in the second as confidence grew in each corner. 29 year-old Walsh picked his shots well and was the more effective of the two men. After being dubiously knocked down in the third James came back with vengeance, landing a series of well-timed combinations.

James maintained his impressive work rate in the fourth but the champion’s class begun to shine through. More quality shots from Walsh followed in the fifth as the world-title chasing man took control of the fight. A sapping body shot from Walsh in the sixth threatened to topple James before he regained his composure and returned fire.

A determined Walsh began to lay it on in the eighth, connecting with numerous razor sharp shots. The classy Walsh was determined to make an explosive return to action after a long lay-off and he certainly did that. James’ corner threw in the towel 1 minute and 22 seconds into the eighth round to seal a memorable night for the Walsh clan.

NATHAN GORMAN WTKO2 (2:48) VS. HRVOJE KISICEK

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest

Ricky Hatton-trained heavyweight prospect Nathan Gorman announced himself on the professional stage with a first round stoppage win over Croatia’s Hrvoje Kisicek. The Mancunian mountain had his opponent down three times in the opening round before the referee waved off the contest at 2 minutes 48 seconds.

BEN SMITH WPTS4 (40-36) VS. FONZE ALEXANDER

4 x 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest

Teenage terror Ben Smith lit up Stratford’s Copper Box Arena with an explosive points victory over Newark’s Fonz Alexander. The West Ham man picked up his third professional victory with the referee scoring the contest 40-36 in Smith’s favour.

LEWIS PETITITT WTKO2 (1:42) VS. TIBOR NODARI

8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Featherweight Contest

Erith man Lewis Pettitt made light work of Hungary’s Tibor Nodari in the third contest of the night. Pettitt was on top from the very first bell and dominated the ring throughout. The referee waved off the fight at 1:42 into round two and the former WBA International Champion came away with his nineteenth career win.

TONY BANGE WPTS4 (39-36) VS. TEODOR STEFANOV

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest

Naseem Hamed prodigy Tony Bange was made to work for his first professional victory and survived an early onslaught from all-action Teodor Stefanov. Bange found his feet in the third round after a nervy start to life as a pro. The Staines welterweight prospect summoned his explosive ‘TNT’ power midway through the third and has his opponent hanging on. 25 year-old Bange came steaming out his corner in the fourth and final round looking for a big finish. New boy Bange took the bout with a score of 39-36.

BARNEY JOE JONES VS. DEAN GILLEN WPTS4 (39-37)

4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Middleweight Contest

Enfield youngster Barney Joe Jones suffered his first professional defeat at the hands of Nottingham’s Dean Gillen. In the first barn-burner of the night Gillen came away with a points victory of 39-37. Both men put their all into an explosive slugfest.

SANJEEV SAHOTA TKO1 (1:00) VS. NIKITA GULTJAJEVS

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Lightweight Contest

24-year old Hornchurch debutant Sanjeev Sahota made a sensational start to life in the paid ranks with a first round stoppage over Latvia’s Nikita Gultjajevs. It took ‘SSS’ just 60 seconds to dispose of Gultjajevs after landing a series of punishing combinations.

VIJENDER SINGH WTKO5 (1:52) VS. MATIOUZE ROYER

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest

India’s golden boxing boy Vijender Singh continued his march towards a huge summer homecoming with a punishing stoppage win over Frenchman Matiouze Royer. Singh wasted no time and had his opponent on the back foot from the off, finding his way past Royer’s defence with accurate uppercuts.

Afterwards Vijender said: “We had a solid game plan and I stuck to it perfectly. Royer is a tough opponent and made it difficult for me at times but he couldn’t handle my power and accuracy. I felt in complete control throughout the fight and it’s a shame the ref waved it off, I wanted more!

“It felt like everything I was throwing was connecting. I’m feeling stronger with every fight and want to carry on this momentum. I’ve got a huge Indian homecoming to look forward to this summer so it’s vital I get past my next opponent in Bolton.”

Francis Warren, Singh’s promoter, said: “I’m very impressed with Vijinder tonight. He’s showed everyone what he’s capable of and I’m excited for his future. He’s completely dedicated to his training and it showed tonight. He looked levels above Royer, who’s rarely stopped. Everything is shaping up nicely for his July 16th homecoming, all he needs to do now is get past his May 13th bout in Bolton.”

BOY JONES JNR WTKO4 (2:00) VS. ARON SZIAGYI

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Featherweight Contest

19 year-old Super-Featherweight puncher Boy Jones Jnr picked up his eighth career win with a classy stoppage over Hungary’s Aron Sziagyi. Boy Jones unleashed a relentless barrage of powerful shots on the retreating Sziagyi who was pulled out of the contest by the referee two minutes into the fourth round.

JOE PIGFORD WTKO1 (2:41) VS. MIKE BYLES

8 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Welterweight Contest

Unbeaten power-punching 22 year-old Joe Pigford blew away Warwick’s Mike Byles inside three minutes to pick up his tenth pro victory. Pigford has been out of the ring since July last year but showed no signs of ring rust in an impressive first round blitz. The Southampton super-welterweight man brought home the bacon, much to the delight of his noisy travelling supporters.

D.P CARR WPTS4 (40-36) VS. QASIM HUASSAIN

4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Featherweight Contest

Sidcup’s D.P Carr overcame Sheffield’s Qasim Hussein to claim his fourth professional victory at Stratford’s Copper Box Arena. 25 year-old Carr was on top throughout the contest and came away with a comfortable points victory. All-action Carr repeatedly found his way past Hussain’s patchy defence and made use of his explosive one punch power. The referee scored the bout 40-36 on Carr’s favour.

ANTHONY YARDE WKO2 (2:40) VS. TZVETOZAR ILIEV

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest

Ilford light-heavyweight destroyer Anthony Yarde racked-up another brutal knockout win over Bulgaria’s Tzvetozar Iliev tonight at the Copper Box Arena. It’s now five knockout wins in six professional fights for the slick and powerful 24 year-old. A huge uppercut in the second round wobbled Iliev before Yarde sent his man crashing to the canvas with another solid shot.

Follow all the action as Badou Jack defends the WBC Super Middleweight title against former world champion Lucian Bute.  The action begins at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT with an IBF Super Middleweight title bout between James DeGale and Rogelio Medina….NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED

Round 1 Jack lands a left to the body

Round 2 Bute lands a right to the body..Jack lands a left to the body..Combination from Bute..Jack lands a right to the body and a left hook to the body..Left from Bute..right to the body from Jack..

Round 3 Bute lands a straight left…Cut around the right eye of Bute..Jack lands a body shot..

Round 4 Jack lands a right…Left and uppercut from Bute…Short left to the chin from Jack…Body work..counter shot..

Round 5 Counter right from Jack…Overhand left…left hook to the face..

Round 6 Jack lands a right to the body…Hard right…Right uppercut from Bute..3 punch combination..stiff right from Jack…Left hook to the head..

Round 7 Combination from Bute…Left and right from Jack…1-2…

Round 8

Round 9 jack working the body…Counter left hook…Right uppercut to the body

Round 10 Left and right for Bute..2 lefts and right hand for Jack

Round 11 Right uppercut from Bute…Bute getting better of exchanges

Round 12 Bute coming forward

117-111 Jack; 114-114 twice…..A DRAW

 

Round 1 DeGale landing the jab…landing head punches..right hook..body shots

Round 2 DeGale landing blistering shots…focusing on the body

Round 3 Medina working the body on the ropes..DeGale landing to body and the head…right uppercut from Medina..

Round 4 Medina lands a right..sweeping right from DeGale..Medina digging at the body..Combination from DeGale..Medina landing to the body…left uppercut from DeGale..Counter jab from Medina…body…

Round 5 Left from Meduppercut..ina..Right from Medina..Combination from Medina..Good exchange on the ropes..Right uppercut from DeGale..right…

Round 6 DeGale lands a jab…Medina lands a left hook to the body..right…Huge combination backs up Medina,..

Round 7 Left from Medina…right hook from DeGale…Both get in jabs…Left from Medina…Uppercut from DeGale

Round 8 Left hook from Medina..right from DeGale…Long right…Left hook to the body from Medina..Nice right uppercut and body shots from deGale..

Round 9 Hard uppercut from DeGale…Medina working the body…combination..Combination from DeGale…Right uppercut

Round 10 Medina coming forward trying to work the body

Round 11 Medina making the fight

Round 12 Medina lands a right…Counter from DeGale..right uppercut..Jab from Medina..Nice combination..Left from DeGale..uppercut..

 

115-113, 117-111 twice for James DeGale

Andre Berto avenged his first professional loss as he stopped Victor Ortiz in round four of their scheduled 12-round Welterweight bout.

In round one, a clash of heads caused a cut on the hairline of Ortiz,  In  round two, Ortiz dropped Berto with a straight left.  In round four, Berto dropped Ortiz with a straight right hand.  Ortiz was in trouble and took punishment on the ropes and a hard uppercut put Ortiz on the canvas for a second time.  Ortiz was if he wanted to continue by referee Jack Reiss but Ortiz didn’t answer and the fight was stopped at 1:14 of round 4

Berto of Winter Haven, CA is 31-4 with 24 knockouts.  Ortiz of Ventura, CA is 31-6-2.

Thomas Williams Jr. scored the biggest win of his career when he scored a stunning 2nd round stoppage over Edwin Rodriguez in a scheduled 10-round Light Heavyweight bout.

It was a firefight from the word go, as both guys landed huge bombs that had each other rocked and hurt on several occasions.  Just before the end of the 2nd frame, Williams nailed Rodriguez with a booming right hook that sent Rodriguez to the canvas.  Rodriguez got to his feet, but was wobbly and referee Wayne Hedgepeth stopped the bout at 2:59 of round two.

Williams, 177 lbs of Laurel, MD is now 20-1 with 14 knockouts.  Rodriguez, 177 lbs of Worcester, MA is 28-2.

Jorge Lara took out former world champion Fernando Montiel by registering 4 knockdowns in a just over a minute of their Featherweight bout.

Lara dropped Montiel seconds in with a right hook.  Montiel was wobbly when he got up and was dropped two more times with right hooks.  He was allowed to continue after the third knockdown only to be leveled with anrother rght hook and he went down face first and the fight was stopped at 1:37.

Lara, 124 lbs of Guadalajara, MX is now 28-0-2 with 20 knockouts.  Montiel, 126 lbs lbs of Los Mochis, MX has seen better days and his record now stands at 54-6-2.

Good looking Super Middleweight prospect David Benavidez stopped Phil Jackson in round two of their scheduled eight round bout.

Benavidez systematically beat down Jackson over the first round and a half until he landed a uppercut and shot to the body that softened Jackson up for a follow up left hook that sent Jackson down face first and the fight was stopped at 2:07.

Benavidez of Phoenix, AZ is now 14-0 with 13 knockouts.  Benson is now 16-3.

Gerald Washington remained undefeated by scoring a 8-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Eddie Chambers.

Washington of Los Angeles won by scores of 8-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 17-0-1.  Chambers of Philadelphia is 44-3.

 

April 30, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA/New York

Star Boxing’s undefeated Super Middleweight Zac Dunn (21-0 17KO Melbourne, AU), successfully defended the WBC International Silver Super Middleweight championship with a spectacular third round KO over tough veteran Les Sherrington (35-9-0 19KO) at The Melbourne Pavilion, Flemington, Victoria, AU. Crocodile Dunn electrified the Australian crowd with his non-stop assault on his overmatched opponent.

Dunn started exchanging with Sherrington from the get-go, finding his range and testing his resolve. Dunn unloaded power shots to Sherrington’s head and body, with his game opponent firing back. As his opponent was backed into the ropes in the second round, Dunn floored him a vicious left hook to the body. Dunn, imposing his sharp jab in the third, continued the assault as the referee had seen enough and stepped in.

Promoter Joe DeGuardia had this to say about Dunn’s performance “Another thrilling knockout by Dynamo Dunn! His attack was relentless! All the Super Middleweight titleholders have been put on notice- Zac is ready for anyone in the world.”

Dunn is currently rated in all 4 sanctioning bodies, #9 IBF and WBO, #10 WBC, and #14 WBA and last year won the IBO World Title.

Twitter at @Star Boxing, Instagram at StarBoxing, and
Facebook.com/StarBoxing.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (April 29, 2016) – TONIGHT at the Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, a big night of boxing will take place at the Mark Etess Arena with three big televised fights that will be shown live on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spike TV.

Before the cameras roll, nine undercard fights will take place that will feature a variety of prospects and contenders ,which includes popular Atlantic City based welterweight, Anthony “Juice” Young.

Young, who has a record of 11-2 with five knockouts is coming off a loss to Skander Halili at Boardwalk Hall.

“I switched my trainer to “Chino” Rivas and I am happy to get back in there. I am a sore loser,”” said Young.

“it’s been a great training camp. I have known Chino since I started boxing, but this is my first time working with him. It;s great to be in the gym with fighter’s like Jason Sosa, Tevin Farmer, Thomas LaManna & Anthony Burgin.”

“I don’t know too much about my opponent other than he fought my trainer’s son.”

Ït’s always important to fight home. I gave them a sour tatse with my last performance, so I want to get back.”

Said Young’s manager, Rich Masini, “We are excited to get Anthony back in the ring at home so quickly after that loss. We still think the world of him and that was just a minor setback and with a great performance on Friday, we feel that he will be back on a good line to get some great opportunities.”

Video interview with Anthony “Juice” Young.

Anthony
Anthony “Juice”Young

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $100, $75 and $50, are available at all Ticketmaster outlets and are on sale now.

Friday, April 29
6:00 p.m. TAJ MAHAL CASINO & HOTEL DOORS OPEN
1000 Virginia Avenue; Atlantic City, NJ 08401

6:30 p.m. FIRST FIGHT BEGINS

9:00 p.m. PBC ON SPIKE TELECAST BEGINS

CREDENTIAL DISTRIBUTION
Fight night credentials can be picked up on Friday, April 29 from 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. ET at the VIP check-in. Proper personal photo identification (driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.

# # #

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AndreDirrell, @BlakeCaparello, @AnthonyDirrell, @GoldenCalebT, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports, @KingsBoxing_and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

LAS VEGAS (April 29, 2016) – World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim cruiserweight world champion Beibut Shumenov (16-2, 10 KOs), the only Kazakhstan-native to hold world titles in two different weight classes, is disputing the WBA’s sanctioning of the WBA “regular” cruiserweight world championship fight, May 20 in Paris, between two lower-ranked WBA fighters, No. 2 Yunier Dorticos and No. 5 Youri Kalenga (recently upgraded to No. 3).

Last July, Shumenov defeated B.J. Flores by way of a 12-round unanimous decision to become the mandatory challenger for WBA “regular” cruiserweight champion Denis Lebedev, who was later elevated to “Super” champion.

Lebedev hasn’t fought a mandatory defense in one year, ironically, when he won a 12-round decision over Kalenga, who had earned his world title shot, like Shumenov, by becoming WBA Interim world champion. The WBA granted Lebedev an extension in terms of his due mandatory defense because of the Russian’s unification fight May 21 in Moscow against International Boxing Federation (IBF) title-holder Victor Emelio Ramirez.

“I’m very disappointed the WBA is sanctioning Dorticos-Kalenga for its ‘regular’ cruiserweight title, when I am the No. 1 ranked and current WBA Interim champion,” Shumenov said. “I repeatedly informed the WBA through emails, texts and verbally that I was ready to fight back in January. I preferred to fight Lebedev but I was willing to fight Dorticos or anybody else in the top 15. For the past few months, I’ve been laboring over what I believe is a very bad decision, letting two lower-ranked fighters, the No. 2 and No. 3 guys, fight for the WBA ‘regular’ title. I am shocked and bewildered and do not understand the WBA’s rationale to have either of these fighters declared the WBA ‘regular’ champion without first defeating either Lebedev or me, the Interim champion and No. 1 rank contender.

“I appealed the decision but, so far, the WBA has done little in response to my appeals other than delay and stall before finally ruling that I will fight the Lebedev-Ramirez winner months from now, yet, ignoring my appeal to stop the regular title status of Dorticos-Kalenga and still sanction a fight between them, its No. 2 and No. 3 rated fighters, for the WBA ‘regular’ title. This is unfair to fans, who deserve to watch the best fighting the best, especially when a world championship is at stake! We now have this odd situation where there will be three separate WBA cruiserweight fights in May, all for a different version of WBA world title I just don’t feel anyone should get the WBA ‘regular’ title without first defeating a champion or at least the top-ranked fighter in the division. The WBA knew I was and am ready to fight. Its decision makes no sense and, in my opinion, diminishes the prestige and meaning of the title. I have respect for Dorticos and Kalenga but I think the legitimacy of any world title resulting from a fight between the No. 2 and No. 3 ranked contenders, when the No 1 mandatory contender who already holds the WBA Interim champion is ready and available, to say the least, is highly questionable.

“The WBA told me and announced to the media that it was working to have only one world champion in each division. While I’ve been sitting out the last four months waiting to fight, the WBA has decided to allow six different guys to fight for three WBA cruiserweight world titles, practically on the same day, instead of crowning only one WBA cruiserweight world champion. I look forward to returning to the ring and my manager, Al Haymon, has advised me that I will fight in May and we will announce next week. I want to thank everyone for their support and I apologize to my family, friends, fans and my country, Kazakhstan, for this chaos the WBA has caused that has damaged and delayed my professional boxing career. I will move forward and continue to fight inside the ring, letting my attorneys and manager fight this unfair situation outside the ring.”

Fans may friend Beibut Shumenov on his Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/BeibutShumenov.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (April 30, 2016) – Olympic Bronze Medalist Andre Dirrell (25-2, 16 KOs) defeated Australia’s Blake Caparello (22-2-1, 6 KOs) by unanimous decision (98-91 X 3) in a 10-round super middleweight attraction in the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spike main event from the Taj Mahal Casino and Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

In a bout that started off with a lot of back and forth action, Caparello struck first with a left in the second round that sent Dirrell to the canvas.

“The knockdown I got in the second round felt good,” said Caparello. “I knew I had him hurt, but I wasn’t able to capitalize on it.”

Caparello again got Dirrell against the ropes and seemingly into a bit of trouble with a similar left in round three, but eventually Dirrell settled in and managed to gain control of the fight.

Dirrell said, “My focus, determination and my drive got me the win tonight. I know I’ve got more work to do, but I never stopped grinding in there tonight.”

Caparello continued to go to work and battle, but it was clear who the ring general was from the close of the third round and until the final bell rang.

Dirrell exclaimed, “I wanted to send the boxing world and this whole division a message. I’m coming for anyone with a belt. I’ll take on anyone who’s a champion. I know I’ll be a world champion. I have to be a champion. I don’t slow down for anyone. I’m going to keep pushing to get where I’m going.”

On his struggles in the later rounds, Caparello said, “I continued to look for the same left hand all night, it just didn’t come again. Andre has a lot of tricks, he is both good and fast. I am not happy with my performance.”

Dirrell concluded, “Tonight my brother and I were both able to display our talents in front of a national audience on Spike. Anthony is strong as an ox and got the win quickly tonight. I got the win on determination and heart. I had to use my toughness in this fight, and I pushed myself as hard as I could to get the win.”

In the second televised bout of the evening, former world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (29-1-1, 23 KOs) met former world title challenger Caleb “Golden” Truax (26-3-2, 16 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight affair.

The former 168-pound titleholder Dirrell got off to a quick start, scoring two knockdowns in the first round, causing referee Harvey Dock to stop the fight at just 1:49 into the first round.

Dirrell said of the dominating performance, “What helped me tonight was landing my shots early. I was right on top of him with combinations and controlling my jab and that set the tone. I showed tonight that I work hard in the gym, and it paid off. If I work like I did this time leading up to the fight, then I know nobody can beat me.”

A stunned Truax said, “Everything was great leading up to the fight. I don’t know what happened tonight. He just caught me early. I think it was an overhand right.”

Reflecting on what the victory means for his struggling hometown, Dirrell said, “My work tonight inside the ring made a big statement for what my brother and I are doing outside of the ring. A lot of people were watching tonight, and now they know a little bit more about what’s going on with the Flint Water Crisis back home.”

The opening televised bout featured undefeated knockout artist Jonathan Guzman (21-0, 21 KOs) continuing his hot streak in a 12-round super bantamweight title eliminator against Mexico’s Daniel Rosas (20-3, 12 KOs).

Guzman, an unbeaten fighter out of the Dominican Republic and now training in Massachusetts, stabilized early and easily controlled the action in the second half of the fight.

Guzman said, “I used a lot of concentration early and let him make errors so I could see what he was planning to do. Once I saw the mistakes he was making I let my hands go.”

Rosas was stunned in the third round, but Guzman was unable to close on a wobbled Rosas. In the fifth round, Guzman landed a left that knocked Rosas back and followed it with another, dropping Rosas just before the bell.

“I wanted to let him throw some punches early. It helped me gain confidence and learn his tendencies,” said Guzman. “I saw him dropping that right hand, and I knew it would open up the opportunity for me to land my left.”

Rounds six and seven saw Rosas take a pummeling, but miraculously stay on his feet. At the end of the eighth frame, Guzman dropped Rosas for a second time, and again Rosas was saved by the bell.

However, referee Benjy Esteves had seen enough and stopped the fight following the close of round eight.

When asked about the stoppage, Rosas said, “The Ref stopped the fight. I thought the fight should have continued, but he decided to stop it.” Rosas continued, “(Guzman) knocked me down, but I kept on fighting. I was never hurt. Guzman is a strong fighter, but I felt I could have continued and come back in the rest of the rounds.”

Eddie Ramirez scored a 2nd round stoppage over Osumanu Akaba in a scheduled 8-round Super Lightweight bout.

Ramirez, 139.8 lbs of Aurora, IL is now 13-0 with 9 knockouts. Akaba, 143.2 lbs of Prichard, AL is 32-10-1.

Anthony Young won a six-round unanimous decision over Juan Rodriguez in a Welterweight bout.

In round two, Young landed a flush left that sent Rodriguez to the canvas.

Chris Thomas scored a first round stoppage over Jessie Singletary in a scheduled four-round Middleweight bout.

Thomas dumped Singletary with a jumping right had that supplanted him on the canvas and the fight was stopped at 2:26.

Thomas, 165.6 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is 2-0 with 1 knockout. Singletary, 163.8 lbs of Washington, DC is 0-2.

Abraham Nova made a successful pro debut by stopping Weusi Johnson in the first round of their Super Lightweight bout.

At the end of round one, Nova landed a vicious right that sent Johnson to the canvas. Johnson got to his feet but referee David Fields stopped the bout at 2:56.

Nova, 131.6 lbs of Baintree, MA is now 1-0 with one knockout. Johnson, 128.4 lbs is 1-1.

Luther Smith remained perfect by winning a 4-round split decision over Solomon Maye in a Heavyweight bout.

Smith, 211 lbs of Washingtin, DC won by scores of 39-37 for Maye, 39-37 for Smith and 40-36 for Smith and is now 5-0. Maye, 224.2 lbs of New Haven, CT is now 1-6-1.

Chordale Booker remained undefeated by scoring a 2nd round knockdown over Tolutomi Agunbiade in a scheduled 4-round Super Welterweight bout.

In round one, Booker dropped Agunbiade with a straight left. In round two, Booker dropped Agunbiade with a body and referee Earl Brown reached the cunt of ten at 1:41 of round two.

Booker, 152.6 lbs of Brooklyn is 2-0 with two knockouts. Agunbiade, 153.2 lbs of Wichita Falls, TX is 3-7.

Callum Smith is in Washington to keep a close eye on his future World title opponents as Badou Jack defends his WBC title against Lucian Bute and James DeGale MBE defends his IBF strap against Rogelio Medina at the DC Armoury tomorrow night, live on Sky Sports.

Smith destroyed Hadillah Mohoumadi inside a round on April 2 in Liverpool to become the number one in the WBC rankings and mandatory challenger for Jack, who landed the title against Anthony Dirrell last April and defended it against George Groves in September.

DeGale makes the second defence of his crown against his mandatory challenger, and speaking to the media in DC this week, believed that a fight with Smith would be a stadium-filler in the summer of 2017 – as the Olympic gold medal man looks to unify the division against Jack later this year.

“I am delighted to be here,” said Smith. “The two World title fights should be great. I think Jack vs. Bute it’s a really good fight. If the Bute that boxed DeGale turns up it will be really competitive but Jack will win on points.

“DeGale is too good in every department for Medina, he’s had six losses and every time he steps up he falls short. If James is not complacent he’ll win and win well.

“I’m mandatory for the Jack vs. Bute winner. If there’s a unification fight in the meantime I have no problem waiting for my shot – and when it comes, I’ll win that title.”

Santa Fe Springs, CA–NABA Lightweight champion Petr Petrov (36-4-2, 17 KO’s) has been training hard for his big showdown with NABF Lightweight champion Marvin Quintero (28-6, 24 KO’s) that will take place on Friday, May 6 at The Toshiba Plaza, adjacent to the state-of-the-art T-Mobile Arena. The Toshiba Plaza is located on the Las Vegas Strip between New York-New York and Monte Carlo.

Petrov took time out from his busy training schedule at the Santa Springs Boxing Club in Sante Fe, California to provide the following comments as he gets ready for this big opportunity:

“Camp is going great. We have had eight great weeks sparring. This is the best training camp I have had in all of my camps.

On Quintero:
“He is a good boxer. He is a southpaw who has a lot of experience. He is a slick fighter, but I am experienced as well, and I am ready for anything.”

“This will get us the NABF title and get me ranked in the WBC, so this is the next step to getting closer to a world title.”

“It’s a big event weekend. We know there there will be a lot of media and fight fans there. I am a fan friendly fighter, and it comes down to putting on a great show in front of all the boxing people in attendance.”

“I am 100% ready to get the victory on May 6th. We have to win this fight, and we will be ready for anything else that comes after.”

Banner Promotions President, Arthur Pelullo stated “We are very much looking forward to Petr having a great performance on May 6th and that will catapult him to the big opportunity that he has worked very hard to get.”

With 36 victories under his belt, lightweight contender Petr “Zar” Petrov holds an impressive boxing resume, included winning ESPN’s 2014 Boxcino Lightweight tournament. Petrov was last seen in April 2015 taking on former world champion Gamaliel “Platano” Diaz where he successfully defended his NABO and NABA Lightweight Titles via unanimous decision. As the current NABA Lightweight Title holder, Petrov will be looking to add another notable title to his name when he faces Quintero on May 6th.

This event is free and open to the public. Media interested in attending should submit a credential to credentials@mercuryllc.com

Petr Petrov vs. Marvin Quintero is a 10-round fight for the NABF and NABA Lightweight title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Banner Promotions and sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, Born Bold,” Casa Mexico Tequila, DOOM® — Fight Like Hell on May 13, and HANDS OF STONE: The True Story of Roberto Duran, in theaters this August. The first bout begins at 4:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Boxeo Estelar broadcast will air live on Friday, May 6 at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT and will stream live simultaneously on estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios: youtube.com/FenomenoStudios. The Ring TV live stream will begin at approximately 4:30 p.m. PT through 9:00 p.m.

Visit Banner Promotions at www.banner-promotions.com; follow us on Twitter at @BannerBoxing; visit us on Instagram at @BannerBoxing; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions; and follow the conversation at #TeamBanner.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV and become a fanon Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #BoxeoEstelar.

WBC Super Middleweight World Championship
Badou Jack – 167 ½ Pounds
Lucian Bute – 167 Pounds

IBF Super Middleweight World Championship
James DeGale – 167 ½ Pounds
Rogelio Medina – 167 ¾ Pounds

The winners will meet in a world title unification later this year.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in
association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

# # #

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (April 29th, 2016) — Opportunity knocked, and “Mr. Providence” answered.

With undefeated super middleweight Angel Camacho Jr. sustaining a broken foot, forcing him to withdraw from his upcoming megabout against Rhode Island icon Peter Manfredo Jr., fellow Ocean State veteran Vladine Biosse has answered the call to face Manfredo at Twin River Casino on Friday, May 13th, 2016.

“THE BATTLE FOR THE CAPITAL” between “The Pride of Providence” Manfredo (40-7, 21 KOs) and “Mr. Providence” Biosse (15-7-2, 7 KOs) takes place nearly nine years to the date of Twin River’s professional boxing debut, which occurred May 11th, 2007 and starred Manfredo in a knockout win over Ted Muller.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to go out there and showcase my talent versus his talent,” Biosse said. “It’s an honor to share a ring with a man who I’ve been friends with outside of the ring even before boxing. He’s shown me nothing but love, so to go in there and share a ring with a man like that and compete, it feels good.”

A former track star at Hope High School in Providence and college football standout at the University of Rhode Island, the 33-year-old Biosse rose to stardom on the regional circuit with nationally televised wins over Joey McCreedy and Tim Connors on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights.

The affable southpaw became the toast of the town at the age of 29 in 2012 when he dominated fellow Providence native Joey Spina in a breakthrough unanimous decision win at Twin River to earn state bragging rights and capture the then vacant New England Super Middleweight Title.

More than a year later, Biosse put his belt on the line against Rhode Islander Rich Gingras and fought to a controversial draw, his last fight in Rhode Island until July of 2015. Biosse faced a laundry list of talented 168-pounders over the next two years, among them J’Leon Love, undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver Super Middleweight Champion Callum Smith, Andre Dirrell and Ukrainian standout Sergiy Derevyanchenko.

No stranger to tough fights, Biosse now faces another Rhode Island foe in Manfredo (40-7, 21 KOs), who’s ending a 2 ½-year layoff with his first fight since November of 2013 when he stopped Gingras in the eighth round of a scheduled 10-round fight.

Limited seated tickets for “THE BATTLE FOR THE CAPITAL” are priced at $66.00, $151.00 (VIP) and $201.00 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com, www.twinriver.com or www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 401-724-2253/2254 or at the Twin River Casino Players Club.

Standing room tickets are also available for $46.00 directly through Twin River Casino and can also be purchased online at www.twinriver.com or www.ticketmaster.com or at the Twin River Casino Players Club. All fights and fighters are subject to change and tickets are non-refundable.

The Manfredo-Biosse headliner at “THE BATTLE FOR THE CAPITAL” is one of nine fights on a stacked card featuring two title bouts in addition to the professional debuts of two accomplished amateurs from Worcester, Mass.

Worcester’s Khiary Gray (12-0, 9 KOs) also returns on May 13th and puts his Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) Northeast Junior Middleweight Title on the line against Fort Meyers, Fla., vet Quinton Willis (10-3-2, 5 KOs) in an 8-round bout while unbeaten New Haven, Conn., welterweight Jimmy Williams (10-0-1, 5 KOs) faces St. Petersburg, Fla., veteran Manny Woods (15-4-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round bout.

Undefeated Springfield, Mass., junior welterweight Zack Ramsey (7-0, 3 KOs) steps back into the ring for the first time since 2014 to face 20-fight vet Issouf Kinda (17-3, 7 KOs) of New York in a six-round bout and regional standouts Nick DeLomba (8-1, 2 KOs) of Cranston, R.I., and the undefeated Freddy Sanchez (7-0, 5 KOs) of Worcester face off in a 6-round bout for the vacant New England Super Featherweight Title.

The May 13th undercard also features a six-round rematch between Stoughton, Mass., super featherweight Travis Demko (4-0, 1 KO) and Mohamad Allam (2-1, 1 KO) of Holyoke, Mass. The two faced one another in September with Demko winning by unanimous decision in a 4-round bout.

Also returning to Twin River, unbeaten Framingham, Mass., lightweight Julio Perez (4-0) faces Providence’s Cido Hoff (0-0-1) in a 4-round bout. Worcester’s Kendrick Ball Jr. makes his professional debut in a 4-round super middleweight bout against Providence’s Tunde Odumosu while fellow Worcster native Jamaine Ortiz debuts in a 4-round super lightweight bout against Skowhegan, Maine vet Josh Parker (0-2-1).

Visit www.cesboxing.com, www.twitter.com/cesboxing or www.facebook.com/cesboxing for more information and use the hashtags #ManfredoBiosse and #Battle4TheCapital to join the conversation.

Bayamon, PR (April 29, 2016) – 122 pound powerhouse Luis “Orlandito” Del Valle looks to continue his march towards the top of his division when he faces hard hitting Thomas “KO” Snow in an eight round bout Friday, May 13 at the D.C. Armory.

The fight will air live on BET at 10 PM ET.

Living and fighting out of Bayamon, PR, Del Valle’s professional record is 21-2 with 16 wins coming by way of knockout. A former NABA featherweight titlist, Del Valle destroyed Josh Crespo inside of two rounds April 9 in New Hampshire. Against Snow, Del Valle will look for his fourth straight win by stoppage.

Hailing from Capitol Heights, MD, which is 30 minutes from the nation’s capital, Snow enters the ring with an impressive 18-2 ledger and 12 victories via knockout. A winner in eight of his last nine, Snow looks to put the boxing world on notice with a victory in front of his friends and family on the 13th.

“This is my second straight fight against a confident opponent close to their hometown,” Del Valle said from his training camp in Puerto Rico. “Fights like these add fuel to my fire because knocking out Thomas Snow in DC makes a bigger statement than doing it anywhere else.”

Del Valle also thinks a victory over Snow in front of a worldwide audience on BET will play a big role in moving him up the rankings.

“I really believe this fight is going to get me back where I need to be. Fighting on TV is very important at this stage of my career and I’d like to thank Roc Nation for this great opportunity. I also want to thank Thomas Snow for stepping up to the plate, even though he’s going to regret it afterwards!”

Promoted by Roc Nation as part of their “Throne Boxing” series, the card is headlined by a ten round bout featuring rising star Dusty Harrison against contender Mike Dallas.

Tickets are on sale now by going to Ticketmaster.com/event/15005069CFC435E1.

New York, NY (April 29, 2016) – Split-T Management is happy to announce the signing of International Golden Gloves Champion and two-time National Golden Gloves champion, Marquis Moore to a managerial contract. Moore, who was honorably discharged from the army after serving our country for 3 years, will be making his professional debut as a middleweight tonight in Indianapolis, IN on a card promoted by 4 Champs Promotions.

Moore, 25, was among the United States top amateur middleweights as he compiled a record of 140-15, highlighted by representing Team USA in many international events including winning the World National Golden Gloves as well as winning the gold medal in numerous national championships including the 2012 Armed Forces Championships, 2013 and 2014 National Golden Gloves, 2015 National PAL and US Olympic Trials Qualifiers.

Moore credits his relationship and trust with Split-T Management’s CEO David McWater with his decision to sign with the company.

“I signed with Split-T Management because of David McWater. I am very excited to have someone like him to guide my professional career. We first met in 2013 when I won the National Golden Gloves and learned he has been following my career for a while and our relationship built from there.” said Moore

“He has always believed in me and came through with everything he has promised.”

Said David McWater, “By the 2013 National Golden Gloves and I thought he was the best fighter in the tournament. He was so exciting of a fighter, and he was clearly the best amateur in the country at that time. At one point, he was undefeated for a 30 month period. He is a great fighter and a great guy and I’m thrilled to be part of his professional career.”

Moore, who was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado will continue to live there and train with world class trainer, Dickie Wood in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“Living and training here is so beneficial for my career” says Moore. I’m living and training thousands of feet above sea level. I’m a gym rat as it is, but training here where the air so thin, makes me have such an advantage over my opponents because I will never got tired. I’m learning new things from Mr. Wood every day and I can’t wait to put my boxing on display for the world to see.”

Wood, who has worked with many world champions in the past, including: Stevie Johnston, Oleg Maskaev, Diego “Chico” Corrales, and Buddy McGirt, feels he has a budding superstar in his hands.

“He is a multi-talented fighter with a blend of skills, speed and power. I truly believe he can become world champion in two years!” Says Wood.

” I have worked with several world champions in the past and his talents are comparable to them at this early a stage of his career.”

Moore agrees, “I see myself becoming a world champion and being a superstar in this sport. I live, eat, sleep boxing and will be the most exciting fighter to watch in today’s game. I’m a throwback fighter, and will remind everyone of Sugar Ray Leonard and Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker because I do things in the ring that fighters just don’t do anymore since the 80’s.”

Split-T Management growing roster includes World Ranked Welterweight Ray Robinson, Undefeated Bantamweight Antonio Nieves; Undefeated Light Heavyweights Joseph William; Bortirali Mamajanov and Mighty Joe Jones; Undefeated Welterweights Wesley Tucker and Boubacar Sylla; Undefeated Super Middleweight Deandre Ware; Undefeated Middleweight Marquis Moore and Bortisher Obidov; Undefeated Heavyweights: Darlington Agha and Trent Rawlins and Adonis Stevenson conqueror, Super Middleweight Darnell Boone.

For More information Contact:

Split-T Management can be reached by at 917-627-6559 or by email at joematchmaker@yahoo.com

(TIMINGS ARE APPROXIMATE AND FOR GUIDANCE ONLY)
Doors Open: 15:45

Fight # 1 – 16:00 hrs
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest
NATHAN GORMAN vs. HRVOJE KISICEK

Fight # 2
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest
BEN SMITH vs. FONZ ALEXANDER

Fight # 3
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest
TONY BANGE vs. TEODOR STEFANOV

Fight # 4
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Featherweight Contest
LEWIS PETTITT vs. TIBOR NODARI

Fight # 5
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Middleweight Contest
BARNEY JOE JONES vs. DEAN GILLEN

Fight # 6 – 18:00 hrs
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Lightweight Contest
SANJEEV SAHOTA vs. NIKITA GULTJAJEVS

Fight # 7 – 18:20 hrs
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest
VIJENDER SINGH vs. MATIOUZE ROYER

Fight # 8
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Featherweight Contest
BOY JONES JNR vs. ARON SZIAGYI

Fight # 9
8 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Welterweight Contest
JOE PIGFORD vs. MIKE BYLES

Fight # 10
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
ANTHONY YARDE vs. TZVETOZAR ILIEV

Fight # 11
THE BRITISH FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute @ 126 lbs
RYAN WALSH vs. JAMES TENNYSON

Fight # 12
THE COMMONWEALTH SUPER-FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 115 lbs
ANTHONY NELSON vs. JAMIE CONLAN

Fight # 13
THE VACANT WBO INTERCONTINENTAL HEAVYWEGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds
HUGHIE FURY vs. FRED KASSI

Fight # 14
THE BRITISH AND COMMONWEALTH SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 130 lbs
LIAM WALSH vs. TROY JAMES

Fight # 15 – FLOATER
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Featherweight Contest
D.P CARR vs. QASIM HUSSAIN

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (April 28, 2016) – Weights for Premier Boxing Champions on Spike that will take place Friday, at The Taj Mahal Casino and Hotel in Atlantic City.

Andre Dirrell 169 – Blake Caparello 167
Anthony Dirrell 168.8 – Caleb Truax 168.6
Jonathan Guzman 122 – Daniel Rosas 121.2
Brendan Barrett 248 – Alando Pugh 236
Anthony Young 148.4 – Juan Rodriguez TBA
Hafiz Montgomery 202.3 – Darnell Pierce 198.4
Luther Smith 211 – Solomon Maye 224.2
Chris Thomas 165.6 – Jessie Singletary 163.8
Abraham Nova 131.6 – Weusi Johnson 128.4
Titus Williams 127 – DeWayne Wisdom 129.4
Eddie Ramirez 139.8 – Osumanu Akaba 143.2
Chordale Booker 152.6 – Totutomi Agunbiade 153

Promoter: King’s Promotions
Venue: Taj Mahal
1st Bell: 6:30 PM
TV: Spike TV (9 PM ET)

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $100, $75 and $50, are available at all Ticketmaster outlets and are on sale now.

Friday, April 29
6:00 p.m. TAJ MAHAL CASINO & HOTEL DOORS OPEN
1000 Virginia Avenue; Atlantic City, NJ 08401

6:30 p.m. FIRST FIGHT BEGINS

9:00 p.m. PBC ON SPIKE TELECAST BEGINS

CREDENTIAL DISTRIBUTION
Fight night credentials can be picked up on Friday, April 29 from 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. ET at the VIP check-in. Proper personal photo identification (driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.

# # #

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AndreDirrell, @BlakeCaparello, @AnthonyDirrell, @GoldenCalebT, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports, @KingsBoxing_and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Tony Bellew has landed his dream World title night at the home of Everton Football Club as he takes on Ilunga Makubu for the vacant WBC Cruiserweight strap at Goodison Park on Sunday May 29, live on Sky Sports.

The diehard Evertonian has won six on the bounce since stepping up to Cruiserweight, settling the score with bitter Welsh rival Nathan Cleverly in their rematch and landing the European title in his last outing in a gruelling encounter with Mateusz Masternak – and now the 33 year old takes on a formidable foe in Makubu.

All but one of Makubu’s 19 wins have come inside the distance, and the Congolese man ranked number one joined Bernard Hopkins as the only fighters to stop the granite chinned Glen Johnson when he picked up the WBC International strap.

“I’m over the moon to get this opportunity,” said Bellew. “Eddie Hearn and Bill Kenwright the chairman of Everton have got this done, I can’t thank them enough. They are both behind me 100 per cent and I’m looking forward to getting this all underway.

“I’ve been training for four weeks now and this is the defining fight and night of my career. The experience has been passed, I’ve done it all now, British, Commonwealth, European – beaten fringe contenders, former world champions – I’m ready to conquer the world.

“I can’t wait for this all to get underway now, the build-up, press conferences – coming face to face with Ilunga Makubu for the first time.

“The WBC belt has always been the one that I’ve wanted to win more than any other. I’ve got unfinished business with that Green Belt, I lost last time against Adonis Stevenson at Light-Heavyweight, but I was never a Light-Heavyweight.

“I was born to lift that belt on May 29, I’ve achieved my dream getting this fight on, I know I’m going to win, I can’t and won’t be defeated at Goodison Park – the greatest stadium in the world.

“I’m expecting the city to turn out in their droves as it’s going to be a very special event for us all.”

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright echoed Bellew’s delight at staging the historic event at the club’s famous home.

“Tony has not hidden the fact that winning a world title at Goodison Park will make all of his dreams come true – and that’s what the whole of Merseyside wants to happen,” said Kenwright. “On May 29 Goodison will be full to the rafters with Blue and Red – united in one goal. To salute Liverpool’s new World Champion – Tony Bellew.”

Tickets priced £40, £60, £100, £200 and £350 VIP go on sale to Matchroom Boxing Fight Pass members at midday tomorrow (April 30) through the Fight Pass section of www.matchroomboxing.com

Tickets will go on general sale at midday on Tuesday 3rd May, Tickets priced £40-£200 can be purchased by visiting www.evertonfc.com/eticketing, or by calling 0151 556 1878*. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in person by visiting the Park End ticket office or our City Centre ticket facility in Everton Two, Liverpool One. £350 VIP tickets will be available exclusively from www.matchroomboxing.com

Opening times for all ticket outlets can be found here.

*Booking fees apply.

Tickets for May 29 are also available from http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ – StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua MBE.