LAS VEGAS, NV (September 7, 2022) – After an impressive performance this past Sunday, Ra’eese “The Beast” Aleem (20-0, 12 KOs), lived up to his moniker as he clearly defeated “Magic” Mike Plania (26-2, 13 KOs), via a ten-round dominate unanimous decision, in a manner unlike any fighter had prior. Aleem ended Plania’s 11-fight winning streak on the undercard of Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Luis Ortiz, a PBC on FS1 event.

It is clear Aleem wants unified super bantamweight champion, Stephen Fulton (21-0, 8 KOs), as he stated this after the fight. Aleem has earned the right to fight Fulton, and a shot at a world title, and here is why.

World Rankings

Aleem is currently ranked #4 in the world according to BoxRec.com, and #2 in the United States behind Fulton by that same rating metric. Aleem also won a bout that made him WBO NABO champion, improving his ranking in the WBO 122 lbs. division, a division in which Fulton is the champion. Aleem previously was the #1 contender in the WBA world rankings as well.

An Easy Fight to Make 

Furthermore, Aleem is undefeated in twenty professional fights with twelve wins by way of knockout, having fought several times on Showtime, the same network that Fulton won his world title on. In addition, the fight is very easy to make since all the parties involved have all fought under the PBC banner.

“I wish the politics of boxing didn’t play such a big role in the sport, but it does and Murodjon Akhmadaliev, the other unified champion in the division, is on the other side of the fence with another network,” said Aleem. “I fight on Showtime and have fought on this network several times, including on the same fight cards as Stephen Fulton. I have served as a co-main event to his headlining bouts on two different occasions. I know fight fans really want to see this fight, especially after my last performance on Sunday. Now I just need the media to demand it.”

No Other Fighter Makes Sense for Fulton Right Now

No other fighter is available as Luis Nery, the #1 contender to face Fulton, is scheduled for a fight soon, and Akhmadaliev is looking to make a world title defense, along with network politics getting in the way of that fight.

In terms of a fight in the United States, no other fight for Fulton offers the anticipation as Ra’eese Aleem. Aleem is getting fans, and even veteran broadcasters like Al Bernstein, wondering what would happen if the two were to fight.

“We both fight on PBC, either he vacates, or he fights me, it is really simple,” said Aleem with frustration. “I think it’s funny he’s using that language, sounds like he’s deflecting, maybe he is scared to fight, in response to veteran broadcaster Al Bernstein’s tweet. I have never been one to trash-talk anyone, but it appears Fulton has a lot of nervous energy around this fight, and is lashing out at people who are excited by this potential match-up. People consider him the best fighter in the super bantamweight division, which is why I want to fight, because I believe I can beat him. This is a big money fight for both of us, and he should embrace it, instead he’s being spineless with his responses.”

Earned His Way Here

Aleem has waited for years for a title shot as he battled his way up from the club circuit, onto television, to get his chance to face the best. Aleem is a former WBA #1 contender who has faced faced five consecutive tough opponents. 

Those opponents include:

• Mike Plania, who was coming in on an eleven-fight winning streak.
• Eduardo Baez, who would face Emanuel Navarrete in his next fight, and give him a hard fight as well.
• Vic Pasillas, who was undefeated at the time, and being touted by veteran broadcasters as a future world champion. 
• Marcus Bates, a fighter who Aleem defeated to take his undefeated record, who he faced in a televised rematch, and was victorious a second time.
• Adam Lopez was a tough contender who never fought again after being stopped by Aleem.

Aleem earned his position in the sport by fighting the toughest opponents he could face without backing down from a challenge. Aleem never turned down and opponent and dominated fights against elite competition on numerous occasions, including his last performance on Sunday. Each of Aleem’s televised fights has seen him improve into the world title challenger that he rightfully is today.

“I am motivated by the fans, broadcasters, and media members who are demanding to see this fight,” concluded Aleem. “Hearing the public say it, and the way he is behaving makes it clear, I am Stephen Fulton’s biggest threat in the division. In today’s world, we need the greatest fighters to chase glory, and see who is truly the best. I am tired of boxing being a second-tier sport that is ignored because we neglect the fans from getting the fights they want to see. I want to make the best fights possible but Fulton is running scared. Let’s be honest, it makes no sense for either of us to fight anyone else at this point. I rise to the occasion every time I step in the ring, and this will be no different. If given the chance I will be the man to beat Stephen Fulton.”

Former heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. dropped Luis Ortiz three-times en-route to a 12-round unanimous decision at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles

In round two, Ruiz landed a quick and powerful right hand that sent Ortiz to the canvas. Ortiz was wobbly and went down again from a flurry of punches. Ortiz was able to steady himself and landed some hard lefts in the round.

In round seven, Ruiz floored Ortiz with a right to the top of the head. In round 11, the left eye of Ortiz began to shut. Many rounds did not have a ton of action, but when there was, both guys threw power shots with the intentions of ending the fight. Ortiz made one last final stand in the final round, but it was not enough as Ruiz won by scores of 114-111 twice and 113-112.

Ruiz landed 76 of 267 punches; Ortiz was 78 of 428.

Ruiz, 269 lbs of Imperial, CA is now 35-2. Ortiz, 245.5 lbs of Camuguay, CUB is 33-3.

“Everyone was doubting me, but I worked so hard for this fight,” said Ruiz. “Ortiz is a warrior who hits hard. I did a beautiful job boxing him around. I showed more class than I usually do just coming forward.”

“I told you I was going to be a warrior and that’s what I did,” said Ortiz. “This is Cuba vs. Mexico. This is what I live for. To everyone who said that I’m old, I gave you a war today. There are always surprises in boxing, and that’s what you got if you didn’t think I’d give it my all.”

“It was a difficult fight,” said Ruiz. “I was waiting for him to load up and countering him when he did. It was a blessing we were able to be successful.”

“If Deontay Wins in October, me and him are with the same management and we can make this fight happen,” said Ruiz Jr. “Let’s do it. Let’s get it on. I’m hungry and I want to be champion again and bring that belt back to Mexico.”

“Deontay Wilder is back and I’m always looking for great exciting fights for the fans,” said Wilder. “If Andy Ruiz Jr. is what’s next, then I’m ready to get it on.”

Isaac Cruz Takes Out Ramirez in 2

Isaac Cruz destroyed Eduardo Ramirez in round two of a scheduled 12-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Cruz landed a huge left hook that dropped Ramirez face-first.. Later in the round, Cruz landed a vicious four-point combination that sent Ramirez down again and the fight was over at 2:27.

Cruz, 135 lbs of Mexico City is 24-2-1 with 17 knockouts. Ramirez, 134.5 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 27-3-1.

“I was ready to win at all costs, for my family and what better way to win than here in front of all the great fans in Los Angeles,” said Cruz.”

“I lost and I have to accept that,” said Ramirez. “I’ll get better and move forward. I felt like I was fighting well and then everything turned all of a sudden. That’s just boxing. Now I’m going to rest, recover and plan my next moves going forward. But I’ll definitely be back, you can count on that.”

“We want the rematch with Gervonta Davis,” said Cruz. “That’s what these fans want. I promised the knockout tonight and we got it done.”

Mares and Flores Battle to Draw

Former world champion Abner Mares came back from a four-plus year layoff but was only to get a 10-round majority draw with Miguel Flores.

It was a high-contact fight that saw Mares fight well early, with Flores coming on late.

Mares landed 151 of 652 punches; Flores was 124 of 665.

Scores were 96-94 and 95-95 twice,

Mares, 134 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 31-3-2. Flores, 135 lbs of Mirella, MEX is 25-4-1.

“Obviously it had been over four years, so I was a little off with my timing and a little sluggish,” said Mares. “But I felt good and I thought I was landing the more powerful shots throughout.” 

“It was a good fight and obviously I thought that I pulled it off,” said Flores. “I know we’re in his hometown and he’s a veteran so it is what it is. He was trying to pot shot me, but I was catching most of it. He got me with a couple good shots early on but I felt like I was in control after the fourth round.”

“It was a great atmosphere,” said Flores. “It’s hard to not let the crowd get you carried away. I know they were cheering for me too by the end. This leaves me in a great position. We got a draw against a three-division world champion so it leaves a good taste in your mouth.”

“After four years away I did enough to beat a young kid and an active fighter,” said Mares. “My performance speaks for itself. The crowd was happy and it felt good to be home. I definitely felt like I won but it is what it is, the judges saw a draw.”

Edwin De Los Santos Stops Valenzuela in 3

Late-replacement Edwin De Los Santos shocked previously undefeated Jose Valenzuela in round three of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In a wild round two, Valenzuela dropped De Los Santos with a hard left hand. Seconds later, De Los Santos scored a hard knock down with a hard right hook that set up a flurry that was punctuated by another right hook his own. De Los Santos was deducted a point as he hit Valenzuela when he was down. In round three, De Los Santos dropped Valenzuela again with a hard right hook. Moments later, De Los Santos rocked Valenzuela with a hard right hook and the fight was stopped at 1:08.

De Los Santos, 134 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 15-1 with 14 knockouts. Valenzuela, 134.5 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 12-1.

“Valenzuela is a fighter who I feel has been protected and I wanted to show everyone what I’m capable of,” said De Los Santos. “The plan wasn’t to come forward so much, but when I saw how he was fighting, I was ready to go toe-to-toe. The Mexican fighters love to fight like that, but he was open for me to attack.”

“I didn’t expect De Los Santos to be as aggressive as he was in the fight,” said Valenzuela. “He gave it out as he good as he took. I just want to focus on getting back in the ring and redeeming myself.”

“I came in against a ranked fighter tonight and I was up for the task,” said De Los Santos. “Now I want the same name that everyone wants. I want Gervonta Davis.”

Joey Spencer Decisions Salgado

Joey Spencer remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Kevin Salgado.

Spencer landed 79 of 395; Salgado was 54 of 422.

Spencer, 154.5 lbs of Grand Blane, MI won by scores of 99-91 twice and 100-90 and is now 16-0. Salgado, 153.2 lbs of Mexico City is 14-1-1.

“He’s a hard-hitting counter puncher, so we wanted to control the distance,” said Spencer. “I feel really strong. I’m really proud of the work that we put into my conditioning and I think it showed in the fight. I’m improving as I get more experience, and that helps me stay more composed in these fights. I’m going to keep adding to my game as I get more comfortable. I’m definitely working towards improving as an offensive fighter.”

“I have a couple ideas of who I want to fight next,” said Spencer. “Tony Harrison, Tim Tszyu, Erickson Lubin and Sebastian Fundora are all guys I want to fight. I want to face the best. There’s one champion in the division and we have to fight each other to get to him.”

Aleem Shuts out Plania

Ra’eese Aleem remained undefeated and tuned up for a world title fight by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Mike Plania in a super bantamweight.

In round two, Aleem landed a right hand that had Plania stumbling which was ruled a knockdown.

Aleem landed 134 of 592 punches; Plania was 47 of 345.

Aleem, 121.5 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 100-89 on all cards and is now 20-0. Plania, 122 lbs of General Santos City, PHL is 26-2.

“The fight was everything that I expected,” said Aleem. He’s a very tough fighter and a great competitor. I just wanted to fight a smart fight, because we know he’s dangerous. Although I didn’t feel his power, I know that he can hit. I just wanted to take my time and let everything fall into place.”

“It’s time for ‘scared boy’ Stephen Fulton Jr. to come out of hiding and sign the contract,” said Aleem. “Let’s get in there so I can give him his first loss. It would be a closer fight than tonight, but I still expect to dominate and get the win.”

Anthony Garnica remained undefeated with a six-round majority decision over Jose Lopez in a super bantamweight fight.

Garnica, 123.4 lbs of Oakland, CA won by scores of 59-55 twice and 57-57 and is now 10-0-1. Lopez, 127.5 lbs of Dallas, TX is 17-11.

Former world heavyweight champion Charles Martin battered and bloodied former United States Olympian Devin Vargas in his way to a fourth round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round bout.

The time of the stoppage was 1:59.

Martin, 250 lbs of Saint Louis, MO is 29-3-1 with 26 knockouts. Vargas, 243 lbs of Toledo, OH is 22-8.

LOS ANGELES – September 1, 2022 – Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday before they meet in the ring this Sunday, September 4 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The press conference also featured fighters competing on the stacked four-fight pay-per-view undercard beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, top lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz battles Eduardo Ramirez in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator, plus former three-division world champion Abner Mares makes his ring return against Miguel Flores in a 10-round attraction, while unbeaten rising star Jose Valenzuela duels Edwin De Los Santos in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

Heading into their WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator, Ruiz, boxing’s first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, looks to move one step closer to a second title reign, while Ortiz hopes to put himself back in position to become Cuba’s first heavyweight world champion. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from JW Marriott L.A. Live:

ANDY RUIZ JR.

“I feel good and extremely motivated. The first time I saw Ortiz fight live, my dad told me I was going to fight him someday. Now we’re here.

“At the end of the day, we both have the same dream. He wants to make history, but I’m going to have my hand raised up high and I’ll be the one who comes out victorious.

“I’m trying to make a big statement. Not just for the fans, but for myself. Losing all those titles that I won broke my heart. This is another chance for me to become champion and I don’t want to lose it. I want to take full advantage of it and do my best.

“His plan is to try to knock me out but we’ve trained really hard. If it goes the distance, we trained hard. I’m ready for anything he brings to the ring. Everyone wants a knockout, but if you look for the knockout, you make mistakes and pay the price. That’s what we’ll be waiting for.

“This is the only thing we know how to do. I’ve boxed since I was six-years-old. I never had another job, so I had to work hard in boxing and follow my dreams.

“I focus more on boxing now, because in my last fight I was focused on how I looked. I want to be the part, not look the part. I trained so hard for this moment.

“Beating Luis Ortiz will help me become a world champion again. That’s the reason I’m still fighting. I want to become a two-time world champion.

“All the hard work and dedication, the blood sweat and tears, it’s time for it all to pay off. It’s time to get the victory.

LUIS ORTIZ

“My goal is to destroy my opponent and win this fight in a convincing fashion.

“Either he knocks me out or I knock him out. A knockout in boxing is the best thing in sports. This is going to be an exciting fight, one of us is going down, and I’m making sure it’s Andy. 

“The only thing I know how to do is box. Ever since I was a kid in Cuba and had to fight for my lunch money. I’m ready for this because this is all that I know.

“This is a fight everyone has wanted. It’s going to be two warriors in the ring and now it’s finally time to fight this Sunday.

“Every fight is important, but this is especially important because the winner will hopefully fight to become heavyweight champion of the world. It’s the most important fight for both of us right now.

“This is a very important fight for both of us. Whoever wins this fight is going to get a shot for a world title and right now, it doesn’t get any bigger than that.

“I don’t pay attention to the odds. Boxing is such a great sport, because you come in with an idea of what you’re going to do, and it changes right away when you’re in the ring.

“I come from a school of boxing that’s about adapting to what my opponent does. I don’t take anything for granted in the ring. But no matter what he does, I’m going in there to look for the knockout, that’s the ultimate goal.

“I’m facing a popular Mexican fighter, but things can turn around in a second. I love the Mexican fans and I’m looking to get them on my side with a big victory.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“We came here to show that I’m a first-class fighter. We know it’s going to be a tough fight and a war for as long as it lasts.

“We’ve gained the respect and love of the fans and we’re going to keep going hard on this journey. We want to continue to gain more fans as we continue to perform.

“I’m coming into this fight very well prepared. It’s been a long camp that lasted almost four months. I’m extremely motivated and appreciative of all the support I’ve received so far.

“There’s been a world of difference between this training camp and the camps I had for my last two fights. The amount of time that we had to prepare made things much better and everyone is going to see the difference on Sunday night.

“I have not reached my ceiling as a fighter yet. My goal is to get better each and every fight and show that I can be one of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world.

“Valenzuela has to earn a fight with me, just like everyone has to earn their opportunities. He has to put in the work, and if he wants the opportunity, he just has to talk to my team.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“I’m motivated and I trained very hard for this fight. This is going to be another Mexican warrior between two fighters who have trained hard and who are coming to give everything they have on Sunday.

“I’m more than ready to give the fans what they want this weekend. I’m coming to put on a show and I can confidently say that this night is going to be a blast for everyone watching.

“This means a lot to me because September is a big month for the Mexican people. It’s our duty to give the fans the kind of fight that they crave and that they deserve.

“A victory in this fight could truly be a springboard for my career. That’s the only goal that we have in mind. We know that we have to be cautious because of Cruz’s power, but we’re ready for everything he brings.”

ABNER MARES

“It’s an honor and a blessing to be back. It’s a dream come true. It’s amazing to be fighting on this amazing card and I’m just ready to do my thing. I can fight in my sleep, so I’m just going to enjoy the moment.

“I’m in a different position coming back after four years. I’ve had a lot of memorable nights here in Los Angeles. I’ve had great fights here. But come September 4 it’s a new time in my career. I have no pressure in my mind. I’m just enjoying it.

“I can sit here and say that I’ll be a smart fighter, but at the end of the day, I’m a warrior. I’ll probably end up slugging it out with this guy, because that’s what I do.

“I train hard for this and I know we’re both ready. There is never a boring Abner Mares fight and Sunday night is going to be no different.

“This is a different chapter in my life. To be back in front of my people for a comeback fight, I’m truly honored and blessed. I’m happy and grateful to everyone who gave me the opportunity. Now it’s just time to get to work.

“Mentally I want to be the wise fighter who picks their punches inside of the ring. But sometimes the heart gets the best of you and you end up fighting like the warrior you are.”

MIGUEL FLORES

“This is a great opportunity to add a big name to my resume. I know Mares is confident, but I’m going to rely on my preparation to carry me through this fight.

“When you have two Mexicans, everyone knows it’s going to produce fireworks. Obviously you want to be smart and intelligent in the ring, but being honest, I’m going in there to give the fans a great show.

“I’m hoping to steal the show and do it in a smart fashion. The plan is to go in there and have an exciting, one-sided fight.

“A victory will definitely open a lot more doors and get me the big fights that I’m looking for. I do this for my family and that’s my motivation every time I get in there.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I just have to keep doing what I do. I’m going to stay relaxed, use my jab and take it round by round so I can get the victory.

“I want to thank him for stepping in and taking this fight. Edwin is a hell of a fighter with a lot of knockouts. I think he’s going to bring the best out of me and make sure we give the fans a great show.

“I know this guy is going to come to fight, because this is a great opportunity as well. He’s coming to put on a great show, just like I am. It’s a new opponent, but it’s going to be the same result.

“I’m starting to get in the flow of things and I believe that once I’m able to get by this opponent, I’ll be ready for Isaac Cruz, Gervonta Davis or whoever they have to put in front of me.

“Me and the Benavidez team are a big family. They took me in when nobody was there for me and basically adopted me. I’ll always be grateful to them for that.”

EDWIN DE LOS SANTOS

“I was ready for this. I was training for two months and was going to fight next week if it didn’t happen, but I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m more than ready for Valenzuela.

“The knockouts come by themselves. I hope he’s ready for what I bring. This isn’t going to be a sprint, it’s a marathon.

“This fight is 50-50. People know what I’m capable of. If you don’t know what I’m about, you’re going to see on Sunday night and in every fight going forward.

“This fight is going to come down to who’s smarter and craftier inside of the ring. I know that he knows what to do inside of the ring, so it’s my job to overcome that.

“Valenzuela has many weaknesses, not just one. You’re going to see what I’m talking about on Sunday night. This is just one more step on my way to the larger goal that I’m looking to accomplish.”

#       #       #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels Edwin De Los Santos in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Prior to the pay-per-view, rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Leading into the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – August 31, 2022 – Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz kicked off fight week events Wednesday with an open to the public media workout at Placita Olvera in Los Angeles as they prepare to square off in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event this Sunday, September 4 from Crypto.com Arena.

The event also featured exciting top lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and fellow Mexican and veteran Eduardo Ramirez, who battle in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, three-division world champion Abner Mares and Miguel Flores, who duel in a 10-round attraction, and unbeaten rising star Jose Valenzuela, who will take on the Dominican Republic’s Edwin De Los Santos in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Valenzuela was originally scheduled to face Jezreel Corrales, who was forced to withdraw due to visa issues.

Representing his native Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, De Los Santos (14-1, 13 KOs) bounced back from his first pro defeat in January to knockout the previously unbeaten Luis Acosta in March. The 22-year-old power-puncher has ended all but one of his victories by knockout since turning pro in 2018. Each of De Los Santos’ last two fights took place stateside as he’ll look to vault himself into title contention at 135 pounds with a signature victory this Sunday night.

“I don’t consider myself a substitute because I’ve been training for this fight for two months,” said De Los Santos. “I knew there was a real possibility I was going to be in this fight. I’m the real challenge and I will knock Valenzuela out. I’m a different fighter. I learned from my loss and I’m going to make sure it never happens again.”

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday at the open to the public event:

ANDY RUIZ JR.

“I feel great. It means so much for me to be fighting in Los Angeles in front of all of my fans and supporters and I’m just ready to go. Everyone here today and everyone who supports me are my motivation to keep going.

“If this ends in a knockout it ends in a knockout. My only goal is to be victorious. I’m in shape to go 12 hard rounds. We’re going to go in there and leave it all in the ring.

“I’m proof that anything is possible if you work hard and stay disciplined. The main thing right now is just accomplishing our goal Sunday night and leave the ring with my hand raised.”

LUIS ORTIZ

“You’re going to see a war on Sunday night. This is a venue that lends itself to great fights and this matchup with Ruiz is going to be another one to add to the history.

“I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, this fight is not going the distance. I hope all the Cuban and Mexican fans who are coming out are ready for something special, because its coming Saturday night.

“Training camp has been perfect and we couldn’t be more ready for this clash. I know Andy is going to bring everything he has. That’s what I want. I want to beat the best version of Andy Ruiz Jr.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I really feel the love from my Mexican people here in Los Angeles. This is going to be a great clash of styles that the fans will love, but our only goal is to win.

“I’m very happy with everything we did in training camp. Ramirez is an experienced fighter who is always prepared. But we prepared for anything he’s going to bring.

“Everyone knows what to expect in a ‘Pitbull’ Cruz fight. I’m just going to stick to the game plan and do what I always do. I feel sharp and ready to go.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“Don’t miss this fight because we’re going in there to entertain. I’m going to be smart and execute the game plan, but I’ll be ready to exchange when the time comes.

“I’m very motivated for this fight. I can’t lose focus, because my only goal is to win Sunday night and earn my shot at the world title. I’m looking for victory however I can achieve it.

“My people back home know that this is a tough fight, but they know what I’m capable of doing inside the ring. I’m going to go in there and give them what they’re looking for.”

ABNER MARES

“This is my house, this is my home. This is where my people are and they’re always supporting me. This is where everything started for myself. L.A. turn up on September 4, because Team Mares is back.

“As strange as it might sound, I felt right at home in the gym, even with the time away. I feel like I’m coming off of a fight just a couple months ago. I had no complications in camp. The hardest thing is getting your rhythm back, but that’s just part of it. It’s made me better.

“I’m not putting pressure on myself to go out there and be spectacular. I’m going to show some abilities that older fighters have. I’m going to pick my punches and be smart about engaging in the fight. As you get older, you get wiser.”

MIGUEL FLORES

“I’m excited to be here, especially fighting in front of the Mexican fans in Los Angeles. I’m ready to get in there Sunday and put on a show.

“It’s a challenge fighting a three-division world champion but we’re ready. We both bring the fight every time we’re in there and I just have to make the most of this opportunity.

“I’m relaxed and enjoying the moment. I’m going to have someone coming at me for 10 hard rounds on Saturday so right now I’m just taking it moment by moment. We’re here to beat the old wolf.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I trained really hard for this fight and I’m confident heading into the ring. I had a great training camp and I’m feeling strong. I’m just ready to put on a show on Sunday.

“I feel like I have a different edge because I came up with David Benavidez and his team. I was always a step ahead of a lot of people because of the work I was able to do behind closed doors.

“I’m ready for anybody. I’m facing a guy with a good knockout rate and I know he’s dangerous. But we trained too hard and no matter who I’m facing, I’m ready to put on a great performance and you know I’m coming for a knockout.”

#       #       #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Prior to the pay-per-view, rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Leading into the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – August 25, 2022 – Former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin will highlight non-televised undercard action when he takes on former U.S. Olympian Devin Vargas in an eight-round attraction on September 4 in PBC action during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The event is topped by a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT featuring former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. battling top contender Luis “King Kong “ Ortiz in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator in the main event.

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

The non-televised lineup will also include unbeaten Mexican flyweight Juan García (10-0-2, 7 KOs) in a four-round bout taking on Gilberto Mendoza (19-13-3, 19 KOs), plus a battle of unbeaten lightweights as Los Angeles’ Anthony Cuba (4-0-1, 3 KOs) faces Houston’s Óscar Pérez (5-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round attraction.

Rounding out the card is San Francisco’s Anthony Garnica (9-0-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round super bantamweight matchup against Anthony Casillas (8-2, 4 KOs), super lightweight Jesús Carrillo (10-7-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round attraction and lightweight prospect Kel Spencer (1-0), the younger brother of rising super welterweight Joey Spencer, stepping into the ring for a four-round duel.

Martin (28-3-1, 25 KOs) became heavyweight champion in January 2016 when he won by TKO against then unbeaten Vyacheslav Glazkov. After losing his title to Anthony Joshua, Martin won five of six fights, with all of those wins coming inside the distance. Originally from St. Louis, now living in Las Vegas and currently training in Southern California with Manny Robles, Martin most recently challenged Luis Ortiz in a New Year’s Day showdown that saw him send Ortiz to the canvas twice before eventually losing in round six.

A 2004 U.S. Olympian, Vargas (22-7, 9 KOs) has fought professionally since 2004 and was a two-time National Golden Gloves Heavyweight Champion as an amateur. Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Vargas last fought in November 2020, dropping a contest to unbeaten Zhilei Zhang. Throughout his career, Vargas has challenged champions and top prospects and contenders including Andy Ruiz Jr., Dominic Breazeale and Junior Fa.

#         #         #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

EL CAJON, CA. – August 24, 2022 – Former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. held a media workout at his gym in the San Diego area on Wednesday as he prepares to face top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in Labor Day weekend action at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The heavyweight clash will top a stacked four-fight pay-per-view telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as Ruiz looks to move one step closer to regaining the heavyweight crown he held in 2019.

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

The media workout was live streamed on the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page and can be viewed HERE. Ruiz was joined by his new trainer Alfredo Osuna, as they prepare for their first fight together on the big stage Labor Day Weekend, along with stablemate and unbeaten super bantamweight Anthony Garnica, who will compete on the off-TV undercard. Here is what they had to say Wednesday from their gym in El Cajon, California:

ANDY RUIZ JR.

“I’m feeling really good. The hard work has already paid off and now it’s just time to have fun on September 4. We’re going to let it all out in the ring. Me and Ortiz are coming to be champions, so you know it’s going to be a hell of a fight.

“I’m just ready. I had a long training camp. I know what Ortiz is bringing to the ring and I know what I’m capable of. I just have to stay focused and execute.

“When I try to go for the knockout, it usually doesn’t go my way. I’m training for 12 rounds and if the knockout comes, it comes. You best believe I’m in condition to go hard for all 12 rounds.

“I’ve been training hard because we want to climb back up the ladder of the heavyweight division. That’s why we picked a tough guy like Luis Ortiz. He has a hard style, but I’m positive and confident that I’m going to win this fight on September 4.

“It’s going to be a crazy atmosphere in that arena. All the Mexican fans will be there supporting, and may the best man win. I’m glad that Ortiz is predicting a knockout, because I’m ready for anything. My only prediction is that I’m going to win.

“A matchup against Deontay Wilder would be an amazing fight. The heavyweight division is wide open, but I’m not overlooking Luis Ortiz. If Wilder is next, he’s next. It’s an easy fight to make.

“I feel like I’m in a good state of mind right now. I’m doing everything that I’m supposed to do. I underestimated my last opponent but I’m really focused on what Luis Ortiz brings. This is another chapter for me and my career.

“Ortiz’s age doesn’t matter, especially in the heavyweight division. Because one punch is going to change the whole fight. I just have to be smart and explosive and turn it up when I need to turn it up.

“My team all have the same game plan. We want to be champions and we want to make history. The way you do that is by preparing yourself right here in the gym.

“I want to take advantage of every single moment I have in boxing. Especially for these big fights, because I want to succeed and make the most out of my career.”

ALFREDO OSUNA, Ruiz’s Trainer

“We know we’re just days away from the fight and that’s a completely different feeling from where we started. We’re ready to face off against Luis Ortiz and give every fan the fight they want to see on September 4.

“Andy is in optimal shape. He couldn’t be doing any better. The best part of this training camp is that he’s been happy, disciplined and as dedicated as he’s ever been.

“We know that Luis Ortiz is a dangerous opponent who deserves all of our respect. But not only does he have those two losses, they were both by knockout and that’s what we’re aiming for.

“(Luis Ortiz’s trainer) Herman Caicedo can say whatever he wants about me and Andy’s chemistry. I’ve been doubted before and proved everyone wrong. If he says I don’t have enough experience with Andy, then he’s got an open invite to come out and work with us and we’ll show him the vibe we have on Team Ruiz.

“There’s a very high percent chance that this fight ends in a knockout. We’re prepared for anything, but we’ll see what happens on September 4.

“My message for the fans is to come out on September 4, because it’s going to be a war. This is the kind of fight that people love to see.”

ANTHONY GARNICA

“It’s a blessing to be a part of Team Ruiz. It’s been a dream for me to be in this situation. This fight is another stepping stone in my career and I have to show out. Fans are going to see a strong, fast and elusive boxer in the ring.

“I’ve been working hard for this fight. This is the biggest venue I’ve fought at. I’m working hard to get to the same level where Andy Ruiz Jr. is. It’s motivating to be around him and see what it takes.”

#         #         #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Prior to the pay-per-view, rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Leading into the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LAS VEGAS – August 18, 2022 – Top heavyweight contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz held a media workout in Las Vegas on Thursday as he nears his WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator against former unified champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. taking place September 4 in Labor Day Weekend action headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Also featured at Thursday’s workout was unbeaten super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem as he nears his showdown against Mike Plania which highlights PBC action on FS1 and FOX Deportes ahead of the pay-per-view event.

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

The media workout was live streamed on the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page and can be viewed HERE. The workout also included an interview with former WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder, who is currently training in Las Vegas for his FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdown against Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius on Saturday, October 15 and offered his take on the Ruiz vs. Ortiz clash.

“I’m going with my heart, and Luis Ortiz is a fighter with heart,” said Wilder, who defeated Ortiz in a pair of heavyweight title defenses, Ortiz’s only two defeats. “Why do you think so many other fighters wouldn’t give him a chance? ”

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from Las Vegas Fight Club:

LUIS ORTIZ

“I feel so good both physically and mentally. I’m eagerly awaiting this fight and you’re not going to want to miss it when we get in that ring.

“After I fought Charles Martin, I was back in the gym a week later. Whether I have a fight or not, I’m always active and staying ready.

“I respect Deontay Wilder a lot and I appreciate him picking me in this fight. My intention is to knock out Andy Ruiz. One of us is getting knocked out and I can guarantee this one doesn’t go to the judges.

“I have studied Andy from top to bottom. If I don’t knock you out with one punch, then I’m just going to chip away at you until you can’t go anymore.

“Training camp is winding down and it’s exciting. We’re just waiting for camp to be over and for fight night to begin. My objective is always the same and it doesn’t change. I’m trying to do whatever it takes to beat my opponent.

“Every training camp is different and we’ve made adjustments now just like we have in the past. We’re going to show those adjustments and improvements when the fight comes.  

“I’m just focused on myself and doing my job. What’s going to cause Ruiz trouble in there is me, regardless of what kind of style I’m using.

“I’m always trying to reach the top of the mountain. I want the top prize. This is a very important fight for me, but so is every fight. They all get me closer to another world title shot.

“It’s all about training, training and more training. I feel better now than I did when I was 25.”

RA’EESE ALEEM

“This is a huge fight. I’m excited. It’s going to be electric fighting on a huge card. I’m fighting for the number one spot again and I can’t wait. I’m going to put on a show, be the best version of myself and make it all happen.

“I want to fight all the top fighters in the division. My ultimate goal is to become world champion and I have to beat the top guys to get there. Me and Plania both have a lot of momentum right now and that makes it a great fight.

“I’m an exciting fighter and I throw punches in bunches and come forward. I don’t hold and I don’t run. He says he wants to go toe-to-toe, so it’s going to be a great fight for the fans.

“This has the potential to be the fight of the night and I believe it will be. We’re both bringing our A-games. This is a fight everyone should tune in for and I can’t wait.

“I’ve been following my dreams and just trying to make everything happen. Plania is an extremely tough fighter who’s faced some top guys. I believe that if I’m the best version of myself I’m not only capable of winning, but of dominating the fight.

“Every training camp is semi-the same, you just tweak some things or tighten something up. The grind is the grind and it doesn’t stop.

“I love to make an action fight. It’s just the beast in me. I don’t care if I’m up on the scorecards in the final round, I’m trying to get him out of there. I don’t like to take a chance with the judges. I have to be smart against a good fighter, but I’m definitely working to get on the inside.

“I take care of my body. I do what champions have to do to be the best that I can be. I feel like I’m in my prime and still getting better and better. You’re always evolving in this sport and I believe the best is yet to come.

“My ultimate goal is to be the mandatory to fight for a world title. I want the world title fight next no matter who it’s against. Stephen Fulton is a great fighter and a strong technical fighter. He’s earned those belts and it’s my job to take them away from him.”

HERMAN CAICEDO, Ortiz’s Trainer

“Ortiz has been even more focused and more lasered in, and that says a lot. He’s always ready and puts his heart 100% into everything we do. He never leaves the gym and I have to tell him to take it easy.

“The level of focus that he’s shown is a testament to who he is and what he believes in. I’m very happy with what he’s doing this camp.

“He’s not just more motivated, but he’s out-performing the young guys in what we do in the gym. He’s also very strong mentally and I think that’s his biggest attribute. That’s why he’s still here at this age.

“What I know is that Luis and I trust one another in what we’re doing. I don’t know how much chemistry Ruiz and his corner have at this point, so if things get muddy will he trust his corner? I know that my corner will and I will trust him.

“In the end it’s going to come down to skill, dedication, who put in the hard work and who wants it more.”

BOBBY MCROY, Aleem’s Trainer

“Mike Plania is a picture of our previous opponents. People aren’t really recognizing how slick he is, but he wants to fight. He definitely wants to come forward, but we’re going to make him back up.

“We follow the flow of the fight. We make our own fight. We dictate what goes on in the ring. That’s what ring generalship is.

“I don’t mind that Ra’eese likes to gamble in the ring sometimes, you just have to gamble smartly. He has that bravado to fight on the inside, but you still have defensive responsibilities.

“We want to send a chilling message that Aleem is number one at 122. We’re going to put on a show and make a big statement. We’re telling the champions that you have to fight us eventually.”

#         #         #

ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Prior to the pay-per-view, rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at  8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Leading into the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2022) – Rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer and Mexican contender Kevin Salgado, plus undefeated super bantamweight contenders Ra’eese Aleem and Mike Plania, previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring on Sunday, September 4 during Labor Day Weekend in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Spencer vs. Salgado highlights PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Prior to the FOX broadcast, Aleem takes on Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

These two exciting matchups will lead up to a stacked FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, which is headlined by the highly anticipated heavyweight clash between former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meeting in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JOEY SPENCER

“I’m not going to make any predictions other than the fact that I’m coming out there to win. He’d have to kill me to stop me. I’m going to fight until I’m either dead, or I’ve beaten him. I don’t care if I’ve knocked him out, stopped him, or win by decision. I’m going to beat him. He doesn’t have a game plan for anything that I’m coming with. He hasn’t seen the version of Joey Spencer that’s coming on fight night. So, I can promise him that his game plan is not going to be effective.

“Training is going well. Everything is going as planned, so I’m ready to rock and roll. I think fighting someone like Salgado is the next logical step. I also feel it’s going to bring the best out of me. I’m going to have an opportunity to really show my craft and what I have done since I was eight years old. I think that when you have pedigree, better competition brings the best out of you. I think that as I raise the competition level, I’m going to be able to bring another level of myself in the ring, another level of focus and preparation and I think that’s going to turn me into a better fighter.

“It means so much to have these opportunities. Being with this team and being able to have these opportunities to go out there and showcase our skills—not just me, but all the fighters under this banner have such amazing opportunities and I can’t say enough about that.

“I’m trying to make a statement to the entire division. I’m trying to put the division on notice. I’m trying to separate myself as a contender in this weight class. Salgado just had a tough fight with Bryant Perrella and drew with him. It was very competitive. I think Perrella beat Harrison and I think a lot of people would agree. Salgado came out and drew with him. This is an opportunity for me to show that there are levels. I’m ready to come out there and put on the type of performance that separates me from Salgado and the rest of the division. He said he has respect for me. I have respect for him. But when we get in there on fight night there will be no respect.

“I got done with my last fight and instantly wanted to fight a step up in competition. It was actually already the plan to do that. I was on the Charlo-Castano card, but my fight fell through and got pushed back. We were looking for an opponent like that, but it didn’t work for my schedule because I was about to have a baby. Instead, we just took an opponent, fought an untelevised fight and knew that the next one would be a step-up, 10-rounder in a big event and here we are.

“When I got out of my last fight, I said to myself, I don’t want fights like that anymore. I want fights that are going to really catapult me and push me to be at my sharpest. I feel like I’ve only shown very, very little of what I’m able to do in the ring. I feel like opponents like this will bring it all out of me. I have said it before, I’ve been doing this since I was eight years old. I was extremely accomplished as an amateur. I fought the best of the best as an amateur and was successful and won on an elite level. I’m not used to fighting opposition that doesn’t bring that out of me. I have more experience fighting guys like this.

“I really feel like this is going to bring out a better version of me. I have literally put absolutely everything into camp. No stone has been unturned for this fight. I’m excited for the bright lights. I’m excited for it to get chaotic in there and for it to be a good scrap. I know he’s going to bring it. He comes to fight and I come to fight. So it’s got to be a good fight. There is no room for complacency here.

“I’m just ready to make a statement that I’m ready for the top opponents. There are a couple of different opponents that I really want after this fight. I have those names in mind and I look forward to making some call-outs after I get done with this fight, possibly even during the interview after.

“I’m not looking past Salgado. He’s really the only name inside my mind. Before this fight was made, I thought about the fact that an awesome matchup would be me and Tim Tszyu. He’s been calling for Jermell Charlo, but I don’t think he’s necessarily done enough to deserve that title shot yet and I think Charlo feels the same way. If I come through this fight and make the statement I want to make, I feel that will be a fight the fans want to see and for him and for me, that’s a fight that would make sense. We’d give the fans a good show.”

KEVIN SALGADO

“Based on my strategy and what I see the fight being like, I’m confident that I will win by knockout around the fifth or sixth round.

“I feel great, I’m ready for this fight and I can’t wait. I am beyond excited and thankful. These kinds of opportunities are few and far between, so when you have them, you better grab them. I can guarantee you that I’m going to come out with a victory on September 4 and give the fans a great show.

“My brother (former super featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado) is always by my side. We both agree that this is an opportunity of a lifetime. We have to make the most of it. Joey is a great opponent, all respect to him. What my brother told me was that I need to stick to my strategy. Don’t get distracted, stay focused, follow the game plan and everything else will follow to take advantage of this chance of a lifetime.

“Outside the ring, we both respect each other. But once we step in the ring, he’s the enemy. And one has to annihilate the enemy. The goal is to vanquish the enemy and come out with a win.

“You’re going to see the changes and adjustments I’m going to make inside the ring when the time comes. What I do know is that Joey Spencer is a fast, agile counterpuncher. I can guarantee you that me and my team are crafting exactly the right strategy in order to be able to not let him do what he wants inside the ring.

“We are ready for whatever comes our way. I’m beyond excited to be a part of this card which has a lot of Mexican fighters and I’m proud to be one of them. Joey Spencer is the perfect opponent for me right now. I’d like to say that you face the good, the very good and the excellent opponents. You have to be ready for each and every one of them.

“The super welterweight division is chock-full of great fighters. The depth is incredible. The goal is to get closer to fighting for a world title and I can do that by fighting a Tony Harrison or a Sebastian Fundora. I’m up for any challenge that comes my way.”

RA’EESE ALEEM

“I’m extremely excited for this opportunity to fight on a stacked card and to be fighting a great fighter in Mike Plania. I’m excited to showcase my skills and talent on the big stage.

“I feel like I’ve been aging like wine. I haven’t been in a lot of wars and I have an extremely high boxing IQ. So, depending on what my opponent is trying to do, sometimes might dictate what I do. I feel like I do it to the best of my ability and I’m going to work to ultimately get the stoppage.

“If the knockout comes, great. He’s an extremely tough fighter, he’s never been stopped. I believe I am capable of making that happen. I just have to be the best version of myself and that’s what I plan on doing.

“I’m extremely grateful. This is a huge opportunity for me to show everybody who Ra’eese Aleem is and what I’m about. So many greats have fought at Crypto.com Arena, in Los Angeles, so I’m really excited.

“I have to remind people what I bring to the table. Boxing is a sport where you have to consistently prove yourself. You have to prove you belong, that a win wasn’t a fluke. That’s the hand I was dealt and that’s fine. I’m ready to reintroduce people to who I am.

“I don’t believe there is any pressure with having an undefeated record. It’s just a testament to how hard I’ve worked to remain undefeated. Every fight at this level is going to be extremely competitive and extremely hard. If it’s anything less than that, then I’ll have an easy night.

“I believe I’m ready for a world title shot, nothing short of that. It should have happened two fights ago. If I beat Plania, that’s the plan. The ultimate goal is to win a world title. I just have to make it to where I’m the mandatory so no one can duck, run, hide or make excuses. They either have to fight or vacate. That’s the situation I’m trying to put myself in.

“I’ve done this the right way. I worked hard to get here. I didn’t take easy fights. It’s been a long, hard journey, but at the end of the day, I know I belong. I am undefeated and I have fought top guys. Mike Plania is another top fighter and I plan on beating him also.

“I don’t believe Stephen Fulton is ducking me, or is scared of me, but I do believe that he’s not jumping to fight me. I don’t believe it’s a fight that he wants. My expectation is that my next fight is to be a world title fight. The ultimate goal is to get the win, look good and keep it moving then make the title fight.

“I don’t believe I’ve gotten the respect I deserve yet. Like I said earlier, boxing is a sport where you have to consistently prove yourself. That’s why I have to make a big statement to show everyone who Ra’eese Aleem is. For whatever reason, I’ve been overlooked or overshadowed, so I have something to prove.

“To hear Mike Plania talk about fighting toe-to-toe just makes me want to smile. I’ve never been in the ring with a fighter who was able to stand toe-to-toe with me. I don’t believe that’s his game plan. If it is, then good luck. I am a beast. I am prepared to go the distance but if he wants to go toe-to-toe then it’s going to be on and popping. I am an exciting fighter. I throw punches in bunches. I don’t run. I don’t hold and it’s going to be a real exciting fight on September 4.

“I believe I’m going to come and be the best version of myself and ultimately dominating the fight. As long as I don’t go for the knockout, I think I’ll get the knockout early. I don’t see it going the full 10 rounds, but I’m just trying to be the best version of myself. I do see me being victorious in this fight.”

MIKE PLANIA

“I’m very excited for this match. I trained hard for this fight on September 4. It’s going to be good. My training has gone well and I’m 100%. I’ve stayed focused and I got this.

“This could be my coming out party. First of all, I respect Aleem. He’s a good fighter, a real fighter. But I’m here to give the fans the fight they want. I’m ready. So let’s see what happens on September 4.

“This is a big opportunity. I’d like to thank TGB Promotions and my team for helping me throughout this camp. I want to thank my sparring partners and to my trainer, Osmiri “Moro” Fernandez. He did a lot to help me and I feel I’ve had a good training camp. I’m excited to fight at Crypto.com Arena. This is a big fight and I’m ready.

“After this fight, my dream is to fight for a world title. That has been my dream since I was a kid. So I want to make that happen. I want the world title next.

“I expect Aleem, a good fighter, to fight toe-to-toe. I have confidence because I worked very hard in my training. No excuses. I want to fight toe-to-toe with Aleem. I have my game plan and I am ready for this. This fight I want to prove myself and show who is Mike Plania in the ring. September 4, you don’t want to miss this fight. Let’s do it.”

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app, as well as FITE.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – August 3, 2022 – Rising unbeaten super welterweight Joey Spencer will battle Mexican contender Kevin Salgado in a 10-round showdown highlighting PBC action live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Prior to the FOX broadcast, undefeated top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem takes on Mike Plania in a 10-round attraction live on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

These two exciting matchups will lead up to a stacked FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT which is headlined by the highly-anticipated heavyweight clash between former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meeting in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator.

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

The 22-year-old Spencer (15-0, 10 KOs) turned pro in February 2017 and immediately caught the eye of fans and pundits with his combination of speed, power and athleticism. Following an impressive 2020 campaign, the Linden, Michigan native added three more victories to his ledger in 2021, including his first eight-round fight as he earned a unanimous decision over James Martin in July. Most recently, Spencer kicked off his 2022 with another unanimous decision victory, this time besting Ravshan Hudaynazaro in March. 

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring on September 4,” said Spencer. “I’m training extremely hard and I’m in amazing shape. This is a great opportunity for me to shine on a big stage and really show what I’m capable of. I’m looking forward to bringing the fans lots of excitement!”

A native of Mexico City, Salgado (14-0-1, 9 KOs) is the younger brother of former super featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado and now fights out of San Antonio, Texas. The 24-year-old turned pro in late 2016 and delivered knockouts in six of his first nine outings. After scoring three-straight knockouts between September 2019 and February 2021, Salgado returned to the ring in October 2021 to defeat Ricardo Banuelos Cernas by unanimous decision before most recently fighting Bryant Perrella to a split-draw in his U.S. debut in April.

“Training camp has been great and I’m way ahead of schedule heading into this fight,” said Salgado. “I know I’m facing a solid fighter who’s a good counter puncher, but I’m preparing to counter that style. This is going to be a very interesting fight, because I’m training to deliver a knockout and win in tremendous fashion.”

Owning a top-10 ranking at 122-pounds from multiple sanctioning bodies, Aleem (19-0, 12 KOs) put on the most impressive performance of his career in January 2021 to capture the interim WBA title. Aleem dominated in a battle of unbeatens, dropping Victor Pasillas four times before eventually stopping him in round 11. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, the 31-year-old Aleem had stopped his past seven opponents inside the distance before most recently earning a decision victory over Eduardo Baez in November 2021.

“The time is now to take that next step in my career toward a world title shot and I know that a win in this fight will put me on the right path,” said Aleem. “I’ve been waiting for the chance to show everyone why I’m the best super bantamweight in the world. I’m never in a boring fight and you can expect fireworks once again on September 4. I’m going to let my hands send a message to the rest of the division.”

The 25-year-old Plania (26-1, 13 KOs) dropped Joshua Greer twice in their June 2020 clash on his way to a career-best decision victory, which he followed up in April 2021 by defeating Emmanuel Mogawa, before stopping Ricardo Nunez in November. A native of General Santos City in the Philippines, Plania has put together an 11-fight winning streak since a 2018 decision loss against former champion Juan Carlos Payano. Plania has fought professionally since 2014, with five of his last six outings taking place stateside.

“Ever since I beat Joshua Greer to put myself in the world rankings, I have been looking for an opportunity to fight the best at 122 pounds and to secure a world title shot,” said Plania. “On September 4, I will show everyone I deserve to fight for the title. I want to thank my whole team for putting me in this position and I can’t wait to get in there and show what I can do.”

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – August 2, 2022 – Fighters competing on the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard headlined by the heavyweight showdown between Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and Luis “King Kong” Ortiz previewed their upcoming matchups during a virtual press conference on Tuesday as they near their Labor Day Weekend matchups on September 4 from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Tuesday’s virtual event featured top lightweight Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez, who meet in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, former three-division world champion and L.A. fan-favorite Abner Mares and Miguel Flores, who duel in a super featherweight attraction, and unbeaten rising lightweight Jose Valenzuela and former world champion Jezreel Corrales, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m thrilled about this fight because the fans are going to be the true winners. I can’t wait to get in the ring and compete.

“We’re not going to take anything away from anybody, because we know what he’s capable of. Eduardo Ramirez is a very tough and complicated rival for me. 

“I’m planning to welcome Eduardo Ramirez to the division in the harshest of ways. We’ll be ready for whatever he brings into the ring.

“The fight against Gervonta Davis motivated me and gave me the goal of wanting to face him again. All I have to do is take down every single opponent who they put in front of me. I have a serious opponent in front of me now, but I know I have what it takes to bring the title back to Mexico City.

“I am a more mature and experienced fighter than I’ve been in the past. I can guarantee that the experience that I’m going to acquire going forward will make me more aware of everything surrounding me and make me even better in that rematch against Gervonta Davis.

“I’m ready for any of the top fighters at lightweight. When the time comes, I hope they step up to the plate and take on the challenge.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“I’m so excited for this challenge on September 4. It’s going to be a great fight and I’m counting down the days until it’s fight night.

“I’ve fought a lot of high-quality opponents. I respect Isaac and I know that we’re both on winning streaks. I fully believe that I’m up to the challenge and that I have to defeat Isaac to achieve everything I have in mind for my career.

“I never think about a particular fight in a way that adds pressure. Boxing is what I do. Isaac is a quality opponent for sure. But I know that I can do whatever I set my mind to, because I crave the challenges that come my way. I want to face the best and I’ll be ready to do so on September 4.

“I try to live in the moment and not make too many plans. That can be counter-productive. I’m expecting a positive result from this fight. I’ll see what doors open after this and then make the best decision for my career.

“I’m not going to close any doors on what division I’ll fight in. I’m going to go where the biggest fights are. It’s about what me and my team believe fits me best.

“I don’t care who I’m fighting. Give me short guys or tall guys, I’m going to fight and I’m going to do everything I can to beat my opponent. No matter what they bring.”

ABNER MARES

“I’m happy to be on this card and happy to be back, period. I’m overjoyed with gratitude more than anything. I can’t wait for September 4 because it’s a comeback that I’ve asked for and it’s more meaningful because it’s happening here in L.A.

“Once you get to a certain point of your life, you have to train differently. I train smarter, not harder. I can’t do the same things I used to do. I’m sparring younger fighters, but I have to be smart, while still getting great conditioning in.

“What I’m doing this camp, that I haven’t done a lot in the past, is enjoy it. I’m enjoying myself and enjoying my progress. My family and friends are coming to see me spar, because I know this could be my last fight. It’s one of those opportunities that you hardly ever get.

“I’m not putting pressure on myself about what comes next. I’m not here to call anyone out. I’m going to take it fight-by-fight. It’s Miguel Flores in front of me and we’ll see what happens after that.

“Stamina is everything for a fighter. But for me, as the fighter who’s been out, it’s more about the timing. I’m going to be well-conditioned. It’s more the timing and reflexes and finding your distance. It’s a matter of sparring a lot and getting that back. The conditioning is no concern.

“When my fight got pulled because of my injury, I had unfinished business with Gervonta Davis. There were some fights that could have gotten done in that time, so maybe that is in the back of my mind. But my focus is really on this fight and what’s in front of me.

“I still have the drive and the fire in me. When you still have that, why not come back and show that you’re still capable of reaching great heights?”

MIGUEL FLORES

“I just want to make the most of this opportunity against Abner Mares. This is a great card full of Mexican warriors and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.

“Even though he’s been out, the name Abner Mares brings a lot to the table. I know that I have to get past him in order to get bigger fights. Abner has been out four years, but rest does you good. He might come out feeling fresh. I’m expecting the best version of Abner Mares.

“I’ve competed at the world class level. I know what it takes and we’re excited to give the fans a great show.

“To me, Abner is the target. I’m not just focused on one weak point. I want to target his body. He’s been out, so I want to see how he reacts to the body shots.

“I’m fighting a living legend. He won titles at three weights and that tells you a lot about Abner. I hope he’s not thinking I’m an easy fight.

“I’m always grateful for these opportunities. This is my third pay-per-view event. I’ve beaten good solid opponents and I know what I can do. You just want to have that perfect night and I’m hoping that’s September 4. I hate to ruin Abner’s plans, but we’re looking to go in there and possibly knock him out.”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“It’s great to be back on such a great card in Los Angeles. I have a tough opponent and I’m planning to put on another great show.

“I’m feeling great about the position I’m in. I always knew that I would be here. I’m just taking it step by step and I’m very motivated to face a highly-ranked fighter with a lot of experience.

“I think a win in this fight will open doors and give me leverage to get the big fights. People are going to have to take me seriously as a top fighter at lightweight.

“I don’t think I can just win a close fight, I have to win in impressive fashion or knock him out. I’m confident that I can do that. I’ve seen some of his film and I sparred with Alberto Machado, who beat Corrales, so I’m confident in what I can do.

“I think a fight against Isaac Cruz would be a great matchup. I’ve been asking to fight him since before he fought Gervonta Davis. I know me and my team are down to do it, so I hope he and his team are too.

“I knew I was going to beat Francisco Vargas and I knew that I’d eventually hurt him. I didn’t see it coming so early, but I was happy with the result and I hope to do that again on September 4.”

JEZREEL CORRALES

“I’m really excited for this fight. I feel strong and I can’t wait for this opportunity to compete on a great card. I’ve had a fantastic training camp and I’m excited for the challenge coming up.

“I feel comfortable at 135 pounds. This is a competitive division and I look forward to being a part of it. There are a lot of exciting challenges ahead of me and I’m ready for all of them.

“With my experience and the amount of fights I’ve had, I believe that I can win this fight. Every fight is different though. I’m only focused on the present. I can’t rely on what I’ve accomplished in the past.

“I’m not about to underestimate Valenzuela. That’s asking for trouble. I’ve faced opponents with more accolades, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to underestimate his abilities.

“I’m not intimidated by the bright lights. He’s the one who has to rise up to the challenge. I’m going to do my own thing and show up like I always do.

“Everyone is rushing Valenzuela a little bit and they’re overlooking who I am and what I’ve accomplished. I do respect what Valenzuela has done, but you can’t put the cart before the horse. I can still accomplish a lot of great things in the ring.”

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ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – July 20, 2022 – Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz faced off for the first time on Wednesday, at a Los Angeles press conference to preview their much-anticipated WBC Heavyweight World Title Eliminator which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day weekend clash at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The press conference also featured former three-division world champion and L.A. fan-favorite Abner Mares as he prepares to make his long-awaited return against Miguel Flores on the pay-per-view telecast.

Also stepping into the ring on the pay-per-view telecast are a pair of rising lightweight stars as Mexico’s Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz duels veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in the co-main event, while unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battles former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the pay-per-view opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from City View Terrace at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles:

ANDY RUIZ JR.

“We’re here again and I’m thankful for another opportunity. We didn’t come here to cherry-pick anybody. We wanted a tough opponent and that’s why we picked Luis Ortiz. He’s strong, he’s awkward, he’s a lefty, but we’ve had a long training camp and we’ll be ready.

“The main thing for me is going to be staying busy. I’m not underestimating Luis Ortiz, because he comes to fight. He wants to be world champion. On September 4, we’ll go toe-to-toe and we’ll see who’s going to win.

“It feels good to have this fight set. We know this isn’t going to be an easy fight. He has a different style than what I’m used to, but we’ve trained really hard at the gym to perfect the craft. He’s going to bring it, but we just have to do the best we can to get this victory and go on to win world titles. This is a big fight for me to climb back up the ladder.

“The main focus has just been training my skills. This isn’t a weightlifting contest, so I’ve been getting back to what originally made me a champion. I’m not here to lose weight or look the part, I just want to be the part.

“I think this is a similar fight for me to the Anthony Joshua fight, it’s just that he’s a lefty. We have a great team and we’re working hard. September 4 is going to be a hell of a fight.

“I wanted to work with (new trainer) Alfredo Osuna a long time ago, it just wasn’t the right time then. He’s used to training for lefty fighters. I feel like this is exactly what I needed for this fight. My team is going to bring the best out of me.  

“I’ve been doing this all my life. I’ve been fighting since I was six-years-old, so the muscle memory is there. I needed this long training camp for this type of fight. That’s going to help me get comfortable in this fight.

“I love fighting here in California. I always wanted to fight at this arena. The first time I ever saw Luis Ortiz fight was here at this arena, and my dad told me that one day I was going to fight him. Now that day is here.

“The people wanted this fight and we’re going to give the people what they want. It’s going to be a hell of a show.

“This might not go the distance, but I’m prepared to go all 12 rounds. We’re going to get this victory no matter what on September 4.”

LUIS ORTIZ

“I’m very grateful to be back in this position and fighting at the top level. I’m thankful to Andy for taking this fight and I’m truly looking forward to it.

“As of right now we’re preparing for the best Andy Ruiz. We know that he’s not just any fighter. He’s a former world champion and that doesn’t happen by luck. I’m ready for him and may the best man win.

“I’m very excited. The fans are going to see two fighters who love to battle and love to punch and punch hard. This is a dream come true and we’re not going to disappoint the fans on September 4.

“I got good experience from fighting Charles Martin. There were some hiccups in the fight, but I’m going to carry the lessons that I learned into this fight.

“I don’t believe there’s any advantage to the fact that I’ve been more active than Andy. I believe in hard work and the mental makeup of a fighter. That’s what I’ve been focusing on day after day.

“My main objective right now is to win on September 4. Then after that, I’ll see who crawls out and steps up. So far there haven’t been too many at the elite level.

“This fight is going to end in a knockout. I’m sure Andy thinks the same thing. This one isn’t going to go 12 rounds.”

ABNER MARES

“It’s been a long wait. I’m thankful to everyone who still believed in me. I’m overwhelmed and really happy to be back and making this comeback.

“I’m feeling really good. I’m 36 but I’m feeling like I’m 26. I’ve kept myself in the gym this whole time and I’m feeling very confident. I’m looking forward to a great comeback.

“I’m just trying to come back, get a fight in, and take it fight by fight. I’m just happy to give everyone a great fight. That’s what I do at the end of the day. This is an entertainment business and I’m here to entertain.

“I wanted to fight here back in my hometown of L.A. I’ve had memorable fights here and this is my house. I’m blessed to be fighting at Crypto.com Arena.

“There are no easy fights and Miguel Flores is not a walk in the park. He gave Leo Santa Cruz hell. This isn’t an easy comeback. He’s there to take advantage of the name that I have, but I’m here to show him what the old timers do.

“Not too many people get this opportunity to step back into the ring. What really did it for me was watching Gervonta Davis vs. Mario Barrios in person. That made me really want to get back in the ring.

“I started sparring already and I’m feeling better and better. I see the progress and that motivates me and lets me know that I’m only going to get better. I’m not putting any pressure on myself. I’m just going to give it my all and do what I’ve trained to do.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“There’s nothing like a great heavyweight fight. I’ll put a great heavyweight fight up against any sporting event in the world. It’s going to be a great night on Sunday, September 4.

“Los Angeles has always been revered as one of the greatest fight towns in the world. It’s been the hotspot for countless slugfests between the best fighters in the world and that’s what fans are going to get on September 4. Two guys with real heavyweight power.

“Andy desperately wants to be champion again and he’s training hard to get there. He’s risking everything against a dangerous opponent in the hard-hitting slugger Ortiz. It’s a huge opportunity for Ortiz too. He knows his only chance is to go through Ruiz. This is going to be a night you will not want to miss.”

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ABOUT RUIZ VS. ORTIZ

Ruiz vs. Ortiz will see former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz meet in a 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event.  

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES – June 22, 2022 – Former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz will meet in a much-anticipated 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on September 4 in a Labor Day Weekend clash from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and feature a stacked lineup of rising and accomplished stars in high-stakes matchups. In the co-main event, hard-hitting Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will step in to take on fellow Mexican and veteran contender Eduardo Ramírez in a 12-round WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. 

The action will also see the return of popular three-division champion Abner Mares in his first action in three years as he battles former title challenger Miguel Flores in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, plus exciting rising star José Valenzuela duels former world champion Jezreel Corrales in the 10-round lightweight pay-per-view opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, June 23 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased online at AXS.com  

Pre-sale tickets are available NOW until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com with the code: BOXING or CRYPTO

“The fight fans in Los Angeles are in for an action-packed Labor Day Weekend as Southern California’s Mexican-American star Andy Ruiz Jr. returns in his toughest test since his title run, against the always dangerous Cuban southpaw Luis Ortiz on September 4,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is a perfect clash for the electric atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena and is sure to deliver fireworks. The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event will prove once again that high-stakes heavyweight action is a must-see event. Adding in a slew of intriguing undercard matchups and this will be a night that will keep fans glued to their seats from start to finish.”

Ruiz (34-2, 22 KOs) shocked the boxing world in 2019 when he was brought in as a late replacement to face heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua and turned the tables on the champion, knocking him out in the seventh round and taking home the titles. The 32-year-old from Imperial, California lost his rematch with Joshua by unanimous decision, but returned to the ring in May 2021, bouncing back from an early knockdown to defeat all-action contender Chris Arreola by unanimous decision in a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View. Ruiz has taken down a slew of contenders throughout his heralded career, which dates back to a prolific amateur run that included two Mexican Amateur National Championships.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring in front of all of my fans in Los Angeles on September 4,” said Ruiz. “This is my chance to prove to everyone that I’m going to be heavyweight champion of the world again. I’m super motivated to be facing a great fighter like Luis Ortiz, so my fans can expect to see me at my best. Everyone has wanted to see this fight and we’re going to give everyone a war on fight night.”

With exceptional power and sublime technical skills, Ortiz (33-2, 28 KOs) has been a fixture atop heavyweight rankings for years, with his only defeats coming in memorable contests against former longtime heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Born in Camaguey, Cuba and trained by longtime coach Herman Caicedo in Miami, Ortiz won three bouts between Wilder contests, defeating Travis Kauffman, Christian Hammer and Razvan Cojanu. Most recently, Ortiz topped a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on New Year’s Day, recovering from early adversity to floor former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin on his way to a sixth-round knockout.

“I’m blessed to be back in a position to get closer to achieving my goal of becoming the first heavyweight champion of the world from Cuba,” said Ortiz. “Anyone who doubts me, has only fueled me to keep going. I know that I have to make a big statement in this fight, and that’s my plan on September 4. I respect Andy Ruiz, but he’s standing in my way and I’m going to do whatever it takes to go through him.”

The 24-year-old Cruz (23-2-1, 16 KOs) returned to the ring in April with a knockout over former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa after dropping a competitive decision against three-division champion Gervonta Davis last December. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October. Cruz followed that up in 2021 by winning a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matías Romero in March and by defeating former champion Francisco Vargas by decision in June ahead of the Davis clash.

“I’m very happy and motivated to come back in the ring in front of the great fans in Los Angeles on September 4,” said Cruz. “I’ll be facing a very good opponent and I’ll be back at the same arena where I faced one of the best fighters in the division in Gervonta Davis. Stepping back into the ring there is pumping me up even more and I can’t wait to start throwing my hands on fight night.”

Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramírez (27-2-3, 12 KOs) has moved himself into title contention with five-straight victories as he looks to make a splash in his lightweight debut against Cruz. The 29-year-old most recently earned a decision victory over Luis Melendez in May, which followed up a dominant decision against Miguel Marriaga in December 2021. Ramírez is currently riding wins in seven of his last eight fights since losing to then featherweight champion Lee Selby in 2017.

“I am coming up in weight for this fight, but that just means I’ll be that much stronger,” said Ramírez. “I’m excited for this opportunity, because after I win, I will be recognized as a top fighter in my new division. He’s not going to outbox me and he can’t knock me out, so he has no way to win. I’m planning on showing the world what I can do against a perfect opponent for me.”

One of the most accomplished fighters of this era, Mares (31-3-1, 15 KOs) will return to the ring in a bid to continue adding to his already sterling resume in the sport. Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico and now living in Montebello, Calif., Mares was a member of the Mexican Olympic boxing team in the 2004 Athens Olympics before going on to win world titles at bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight. His two battles for the featherweight world title against Leo Santa Cruz epitomized the kinds of high-volume clashes that set Mares apart from many of his contemporaries. Throughout his career, Mares owns victories over top contenders and champions including Daniel Ponce De Leon, Vic Darchinyan, Joseph Agbeko, Anselmo Moreno and Jesus Cuellar.

“I know everyone is used to seeing me suited and booted on T.V. talking about the beautiful sport of boxing, but let me remind everyone, I’m a bad m-f’er in the ring, and on September 4, the world is going to remember what they missed,” said Mares. “I’m the best in boxing in speed, power, intelligence, and good looks. Miguel Flores is on my radar, and I’m sorry to say, he’s going back to elementary school after meeting me. I’m a master in this game, and I’m back. Welcome to Team Mares 2022.”

Flores (24-4, 12 KOs) bounced back from back-to-back defeats in his previous outing that took place last June, as he earned a decision over Diuhl Olguin. The 29-year-old had lost a pair of contests in challenging four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz in November 2019 and top contender Eduardo Ramirez in December 2020. Born in Mexico and now residing in Spring, Texas, Flores turned pro in 2009 at just 17-years-old and was victorious in his first 22 bouts.

“I’m very motivated to be on the big stage once again and I’m excited to get into the ring,” said Flores. “This is a huge opportunity for me against a three-division champion and I’m doing everything I can to make the most of it. This is Michoacán vs. Guadalajara and we’re going to give all the fans a great show on September 4.”

The 23-year-old Valenzuela (12-0, 8 KOs) trains as a stablemate of unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavidez as he looks to continue cementing his contender status in 2022. Valenzuela was sensational his last time in the ring as he blasted out former world champion Francisco Vargas via a round-one knockout in April. Born in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Valenzuela turned pro in 2018 and rode a five-bout knockout streak before earning his first 10-round decision in a victory over Deiner Berrio in September 2021.

“I’m extremely motivated for this fight,” said Valenzuela. “My opponent is an accomplished former champion and this is the kind of challenge that I’ve been asking for. I’m going to come into this fight extremely prepared to make another statement on September 4 and give the fans a great show like I always do.”

The 30-year-old Corrales (26-4, 10 KOs) has won three-straight fights since moving up to lightweight in 2021 and has ascended to the number two ranking in the WBA. Fighting out of San Miguelito, Panama, Corrales won a super featherweight title in 2016 when he went to Japan and knocked out Takashi Uchiyama before winning a decision in their rematch. He also owns victories over current former champion Rene Alvarado and veteran contender Robinson Castellanos.

“Valenzuela is a good young fighter with some skills, but he doesn’t have the experience to handle what I’m bringing to the ring,” said Corrales. “This is going to be like when the great Panamanian champion Roberto Duran took Davey Moore to school. Class is going to be in session on September 4 and no amount of studying is going to have him ready for what I’m planning to do.”

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

OS ANGELES – June 21, 2022 – Tickets will go on sale Thursday for the explosive heavyweight showdown between former unified champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz taking place on September 4 during Labor Day Weekend from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles and headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale Thursday, June 23 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased online at AXS.com  

Pre-sale tickets are available TOMORROW beginning at 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com with the code: BOXING or CRYPTO

#         #         #

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Los Angeles, CA (April 13, 2022) Following up on their Just Released Massive Schedule of Extraordinary Events in 2022, Triller Fight Club has announced a Mega-Heavyweight Clash between Former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Andy ‘The Destroyer’ Ruiz Jr., (34-2, 22 KOs), of Imperial, CA and Top Rated and Undefeated Contender Tyrone ‘King of the Ring’ Spong, (14-0, 13 KOs) of Paramaribo, Suriname set for Saturday, July 16 and emanating from the historic Plaza de Toros in Mexico City, Mexico.

The ten-round main event will headline a tremendous boxing card broadcast on Pay-Per-View. The entire broadcast will be produced by Nigel Lythgoe, award-winning producer of “So You Think You Can Dance” and “American Idol” who has brought his captivating new look and feel of combat sports to Triller Fight Club events as the creative partner, visionary and executive producer. Information on advance tickets for the live event will be forthcoming.

“Triller Fight Club is dedicated to delivering a steady roster of content with something for everyone. This mega-event is set to give the most discerning boxing and MMA fans the most exciting fight of the year while surrounding it with a festival that is sure to deliver for all ages, combat sports fans or not,” said Lythgoe.

The 32-year-old Ruiz shocked the sports world, becoming the first Mexican heavyweight world champion on June 1, 2019, with a remarkable seventh-round knockout of undefeated, unified world champion Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden. Most recently, Ruiz was victorious in dominant fashion with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Chris Arreola on May 1, 2021, in Carson, CA.

The popular fan-favorite Ruiz is guided by perennial Trainer of the Year, Eddy Reynoso, who counts boxing’s #1 Pound-for-Pound Fighter Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and World Champion Oscar Valdez among his stable in San Diego, CA.

A world champion kickboxer with a wealth of international accolades, the heavy-handed Spong, currently training in South Florida, returns to the squared circle following a second-round knockout of Jeyson Minda in Merida, Mexico. Eleven of his thirteen knockouts have come within the first two rounds of his fourteen victories. He is the holder of the WBC Latino Heavyweight and WBO Latino Heavyweight Titles.

“Triller and Fight Club like to trailblaze. We have high expectations for this event. It matches the world’s best heavyweights in boxing and MMA in a battle to determine who is the best. Surrounding it with a Trillerfest where the best musicians, Verzuz, sports, and celebrity events will bookend this historic fight,” said David Tetreault, President of Triller Fight Club.

Opened in 1946, Plaza de Toros is the world’s largest bullring. In 2004, It played host to the third fight between Mexican legend Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and former world champion Frankie Randall.

A full schedule of events and additional fights for this evening of world-class boxing will be announced shortly.

                                                            ——————————

Launched less than two years ago, Triller Fight Club has already sold over 3,000,000 Pay-Per-Views in the past year, making it one of the top-selling combat sports/entertainment platforms. TrillerVerz’s widely acclaimed monthly series, including world-class professional boxing and musical Verzuz battles, has consistently been at the top of watched broadcasts averaging over 6,000,000 views. 

Triller entered into a definitive merger agreement with SeaChange International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SEAC), in a transaction that would result in the combined company being named TrillerVerz Corp., and its common stock will be listed on Nasdaq, subject to completion of the conditions listed in the S4, which was filed by SeaChange (NASD: SEAC).

This Triller Fight Club PPV event will be carried in North America across all traditional PPV TV platforms, including cable, satellite & telco TV PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum (U.S.), among others, as well as leading operators in Canada. It will also be offered to commercial outlets via Joe Hand Promotions and globally via digital streaming to all major outlets.

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**HOW TO WATCH THE July 16 event via Worldwide Streaming **

Digitally broadcast via FITE

 and all FITE mobile, Smart TV, IPTV, game controller, and OTT apps, as well as the event microsite hub: TrillerFightClub.com

Follow Triller Fight Club on social media: 

Instagram: @Triller, @TrillerFightClub
Twitter: @Triller, @TrillerFight

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

Former Heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. had to shake off an early knockdown, but righted himself to win a 12-round unanimous decision over Chris Arreola in front of a restricted sellout of 3,940 fans at The Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

In round two, it was Arreola who landed a chopping right that sent former champ, Ruiz down to a knee. That was the high-point for Arreola as Ruiz was able to get in a rhythm and land hard three-punch combinations throughout that were mostly of the Jab/:eft-hook/Right Hand variety, Arreola seemed like he would be dangerous, but that was thwarted as in round eight, Arreola seemed to hurt his left shoulder after absorbing a right from Ruiz Ruiz was methodical down the stretch and boxed his way to a 118-110, 118-110 and 117-109 victory.

Ruiz landed 161 of 626 punches; Arreola was 109 of 521.

Ruiz, 256 lbs of Imperial, CA is 34-2. Arreola, 228.6 lbs of Los Angeles is 38-7-1.

ANDY RUIZ JR. “Chris is a veteran and a hard puncher. We did what we had to do tonight. We got the victory that we wanted. I was at my lowest point and now I have to climb the ladder again. I’m thankful for the victory and I’m ready to move on to the next.
“He got me with a good clean right hand in the second round. I was too overconfident and dropped my hand a bit. Hats off to him. We just kept pushing and pushing. I switched up and started focusing on counterpunching and working the body.

“I felt a little rust and I know other fighters can relate to that. If he wants to run it back, we’ll run it back with him.”

“I just have to get back to work. I learned a lot about throwing different combinations in training, but the rust showed in the ring. Arreola was very good tonight.
“When you go down, you just have to climb back up. That’s exactly what I did. I got dropped, but I got up and got the victory. 
“I could have done a lot more. I couldn’t really find my distance, but some of that was Arreola doing a good job. I could have kept my hands up better, but I just need to get back in the gym and stay busy. 
“I got a little overconfident in the early rounds. The most important thing was that we came back and got the victory. 
“I’m going to stick around this weight, but I’m going to tighten everything up. I faced a strong veteran who knew exactly what he was doing. 
“A fight against Luis Ortiz would be an exciting matchup. I have to get back to training so I can keep feeling better in the ring. I’m actually happy to get the 12 rounds in.”

CHRIS ARREOLA“I respect the judges, but I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. He might have won, but don’t tell me I only won two or three rounds. 
“I got hit in the shoulder and it kinda threw it off. It wasn’t a big deal though. It’s a part of boxing. I didn’t take too much punishment. I’m ready to run it back with Andy.”

“A lot of punches he threw were hitting my gloves. He never put me in danger. It’s dejecting to not get the respect from the judges that I feel I deserve.

“There’s no moral victory. I came here to beat Andy. He might have beat me, but I felt like he won seven rounds at the most.

“I give me and Joe a lot of credit. We trained hard for this fight. I did everything I had to do in the gym.

“I was a better fighter than Andy Ruiz expected. This version of Ruiz would knock Joshua out, but I was in great condition and ready for everything he had to offer.

“I absolutely hurt him, but Andy is a dangerous fighter. I didn’t want to get hit with a suckerpunch like Anthony Joshua.

Ramos stops Figueroa After 6

Abel Ramos dominated and beat up Omar Figueroa Jr as the fight was stopped after round six of their scheduled 12-round welterweight bout.

Ramos landed a plethora of hard shots on an awkward style of Figueroa, who would be holding his glove up on the side of face, Ramos started breaking down Figueroa in round five, as Figueroa was developing a mouse under his right eye. In round six, Ramos dominated Figueroa by landing hard thudding shots to the head of body. Figueroa was spitting up blood and the fight was stopped in the corner.

Ramos, 146.6 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ is 27-4-2 with 21 knockouts. Figueroa, 146.4 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 28-2-1.

ABEL RAMOS“Omar is a very tricky fighter. He has an awkward defense and it was hard to catch him clean at first, but the fight overall went as planned.
“I trained so hard for this fight. I knew my career was on the line. I knew I needed a win and I knew Omar would bring a good fight. I’m glad to be back on the winning side and I’m ready to take on the best of the division.
“We trained to attack the body. Our plan from the beginning was to pressure him. We wanted to score points to the body. I could hear him groaning and I knew once I hurt him bad, that the fight was over. 
“I missed the feeling of the crowd cheering. My adrenaline was through the roof. They give you excitement and we missed that in boxing.”

Fundora Stops Cota in 4!

6’7″ Sebastian Fundora continues to be one of boxing’s most exciting and unique performer as he stopped Jorge Cota in round four of their scheduled 12-round junior middleweight fight.

The two stood toe-to-toe for the whole fight as they were winging and whaling shots on one another. In round two, Cota was cut on his nose. Fundora continued to lay a beating on a game Cota, who kept trying to fight back and land an ois fhccasional overhand shot. In round four, Fundora hurt Cota with chopping lefts and body shots. Cota was staggered but he was getting caught and the fight was stopped at 2:35.

Fundora, 152.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 17-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Cota, 153.4 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is now 30-5.

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA“I’m extremely grateful to fight in front of the fans tonight. It was fun to hear the cheers, the boos and everything. I’m honored to be in this position.
“It was a good trading fight. We were hitting each other, but my punches were doing more damage and that’s why the referee stepped in. I think he could have been stopped earlier in the round. I just kept fighting until the end.
“I saw his leg wobble in the first round, but he took it and kept coming. The second time I saw it, I knew I had to go for the kill.
“My message to the rest of the division is that we’re here. If youre ready for war, we’re ready to take it. Bring it on.”

Ramos decisions Molina

Jesus Ramos remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Javier Molina in a welterweight bout.

Ramos was cut over his right eye in round six. In round seven, Molina was deducted a point for hitting behind the head.

Ramos landed 135 of 579 punches; Molina was 77 of 413.

Ramos, 150 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ won by scores of 99-90 twice and 97-92 and is now 16-0. Molina, 149.2 lbs of Norwalk, CA is 22-4.

JESUS RAMOS“It was my second time going the distance and that’s what we wanted. We love knockouts, but we’re glad at this point in my career that I got the experience. I thank Molina for taking the fight, he’s a great fighter. 
“I might have been looking for a knockout too much in the early rounds. I got used to it and I settled down and I felt like I was breaking him down little by little. He was trying to survive a little bit, so it made it harder to get the knockout. 
“I learned a lot today. I’m going to keep building on that. I feel like I have a lot of momentum. It was a big step up for me and I feel like I showed a lot. I showed I have good conditioning and good movement along with my power. 
“My father told me to invite him to come to me. We were pressuring him to start. My dad had me change it up. He came in a little bit, but then he backed off. That’s how I tried to counteract his movement.”

Lara Knocks Out LaManna in 1; Wins Middleweight Title

Erislandy Lara won the WBA Middleweight title with a devastating 1st round knockout of Thomas LaManna.

Lara landed a huge left to the head that put LaManna on his back and the fight was stopped at 1:30.

Lara, 159.4 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 28-3-3 with 16 knockouts. LaManna, 159 lbs of Millville, NJ is 30-5-1.

ERISLANDY LARA – KO1 at 1:20
“He said at the press conference that he was going to knock me out, but he ran right into that punch. Maybe he was overthinking it all along. 

“I felt strong and sharp tonight at middleweight, but I still want all of the big fights at 154-pounds too. I want the winner of the Jermell Charlo-Brian Carlos Castano unification fight. (WBC Middleweight Champion) Jermall Charlo is like family, we worked in the same gym for years, but this is a sport and I’d welcome the challenge.

“I feel great physically. I’m going to keep doing this until my body tells me I can’t do it anymore. I don’t feel like I’ve taken a lot of punishment in my career and I know I have at least another three years of my prime left.”

Ramirez Stops Avelar in 3; retains Interim Featherweight title

Eduardo Ramirez retained the WBA Interim Featherweight title with a third round stoppage over Isaac Avelar.

In round three, Ramirez dropped Avelar with a perfect right hook. Ramirez finished the fight woth another huge hook that rocked Avelar and the fight was called off at 1:16.

Ramirez, 125.4 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 25-2-3 with 12 knockouts. Avelar, 125 lbs of Mexico is 17-3.

“I am beyond happy right now. I’m just elated and moved by having been able to fulfill the promise I made to my baby boy Eduardo Ramirez Jr. He just turned two years old and I wasn’t able to be there to give him a hug for his birthday, but I had promised him that I would bring the title back home to him as a gift, and that is exactly what I’m doing now. 
“You have to have a stone-cold mindset, and that’s what we had to finish Avelar off. We were able to connect the right combinations to finish the fight off exactly how we wanted.

“This was a perfect coronation. To be honest, I would now like to have the chance to fight against Leo Santa Cruz. I previously fought against Miguel Flores, who barely lasted 4-5 rounds against me, but Leo couldn’t knock him out. This convincing knockout should be my ticket to have that opportunity”. 

Adrian Granados and Jose Sanchez battled to a eight-round draw in a welt welterweight contest.

Granados took a card 77-75, while two cards were even at 76-76.

Granados, 146.6 lbs of Mexico City is 21-8-3. Sanchez, 146.2 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 11-1-1.

Carlos Negron won a eight-round unanimous decision over Scott Alexander in a heavyweight bout.

Negron, 238. lbs of Villaba, PR won by scores of 79-73, 78-74 and 77-75 and is now 23-3. Alexander, 235 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 16-4-2.

Anthony Garnica remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Jesse Bassie i a featherweight fight.

In round one, Garnica dropped Bazzi with a right hand.

Garnica, 125.2 lbs of San Francisco, CA won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 6-0. Bassie, 126.4 lbs of Deerborn, MI is 1-2.

Fernando Molina won a six-round unanimous decision over Prisco Marquez in a lightweight bout.

Molina landed 116 of 358 punches; Marquez was 44 of 264.

Molina, 133.6 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX won by 60-53 scores on all cards and is now 6-0. Marquez, 135 lbs of Liberal, KS is 4-3-1.

By Norm Frauenheim-

The heavyweight division, once revered, has been reduced to a rumor. Only Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua seems to matter, despite mounting doubts about reported negotiations full of promises and short on specifics.

Joshua promoter Eddie Hearn says it will happen this summer.

Fury co-promoter Frank Warren says it won’t.

That’s where it started months ago.

That’s where it still is, although there’s a growing chorus of frustration from Fury and his American promoter Bob Arum, whose skepticism about a $150 million offer from Saudi Arabia was evident in multiple media reports this week.

A deal hinges on whether the money is really there. A deal – date and place – has yet to be announced, hence deepening suspicions that the offer is bupkis, just more dust in a Haboob.

Meanwhile, Fury has taken to social media and Hearn is his target. Fury, whose trash talk is as deadly as his jab, is ripping Hearn, saying that the UK promoter has cozied up to Canelo Alvarez in the Mexican’s title fight against UK super-middleweight Billy Joe Saunders on May 8 in Arlington, Tex.

For the May fight, at least, Hearn is the promoter of record for both. But Fury is questioning his allegiances, which means Hearn is probably as popular as a piñata back home in Britain.

Such is that state of the heavyweights, a flagship as rudderless as ever. Yet, chaos at the top hasn’t silenced it.

Andy Ruiz Jr. and Chris Arreola, Joe Parker and Derek Chisora will do what Fury and Joshua may — may not — do.

They’re fighting Saturday, Ruiz (33-2, 22 KOs) versus Arreola (38-6-1, 33 KOs) in Carson, Calif., on Fox pay-per-view (9 pm ET/6 pm PT) and Parker (28-2, 21 KOs) against Chisora (32-10, 23 KOs) in Manchester, England, on Sky Sports Box Office.

Both fights are interesting. Both are linked. Both Ruiz and Parker are ex-champions.

Ruiz, the first heavyweight champ of Mexican descent, is the most memorable for his stunning stoppage of Joshua at New York’s Madison Square Garden in June 2019. He’s also the most forgettable for his messy loss in a rematch six months later in Saudi Arabia.

Ruiz blamed the scorecard defeat on lousy conditioning. He was about 30 pounds heavier than he is expected to be Saturday in his first bout with Canelo trainer Eddy Reynoso. Ruiz described the defeat as a kind of “self-death’’ during a news conference Wednesday.

“I killed the old Andy and am reborn with the new Andy,” he said.

It was a good line from Ruiz who looked to be re-energized if not resurrected. At 31, Ruiz still has a chance to be a player at heavyweight if –as expected – he beats the 40-year-old Arreola.  Perhaps, a Parker rematch awaits Ruiz, who emerged as a contender in a narrow loss – majority decision – to Parker for a vacant World Boxing Organization title in 2016 in Auckland, Parker’s hometown.

At least, it’s real instead of rumor. No telling what happens to the Fury-Joshua possibility.

Put it this way: Fury expects to take a day off from his training regimen in Las Vegas Saturday. He plans to be in Louisville at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby. The 20-horse field includes a horse named for him after his stoppage of Deontay Wilder in a rematch in February 2020.It’s beginning to look as if the horse, King Fury, a 20-to-1 longshot, has a better chance of winning the Derby than Joshua-Fury has at happening anytime soon.