Former World Champion Tevin Farmer Takes on Avery Sparrow This Saturday Night at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (June 20, 2023- THIS SATURDAY NIGHT, Former IBF Junior Lightweight World Champion Tevin Farmer returns to action when he takes on Avery Sparrow in a mouth watering 10-round lightweight bout at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Farmer of Philadelphia, 30-5-1 with six knockouts, will be making his first appearance in nearly three and a half years. The 32-y ear-old won the IBF Junior Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Billy Dib on August 3, 2018 in New South Wales, Australia. Farmer made four successful defenses of the crown with wins over James Tennyson (22-2), Francisco Fonesca (22-1-1), Jono Carrol (16-0-1) Guillaume Frenois (46-1-1). Farmer dropped the belt to Joseph Diaz Jr. on January 30, 2020 in Miami. Farmer also has wins over Angelo Ward (1-0), Tim Witherspoon Jr. (6-1-1), Tyrone Luckey (4-1-1), Camilo Perez (9-0), Noel Echevarria (11-1), Emanuel Gonzalez (14-0), Viktor Chernous (15-1-1), Angelo Luna (10-0-1), Daulis Prexott (30-2), former world champion Gamaliel Diaz, Ivan Redkach (19-1), and Darden Zenunaj (12-2).

Sparrow of Philadelphia is 11-4 with four knockouts. The tough 29 year-old who will fight anybody at any time has wins over Anthony Burgin (10-2), Israel Henriquez (6-0), Joey Laviolette (6-0), Jose Lopez (19-1-1), former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-7-1) and Matt Conway (20-2). Sparrow dropped his last bout to William Foster III on July 23, 2022 in Philadelphia.

On the undercard in six-round bouts, Dezmond Lucas (6-1, 3KOs) of Bronx, NY fights Elijah Vines (5-0, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia in a super welterweight bout.

Romuel Cruz (8-0-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Jenn Gonzalez (9-19-1, 5 KOs) of Santa Teraza, Nicaragua in a featherweight contest.

Derrick Webster (29-4, 14 KOs) of Glassboro, NJ fights an opponent to be named in a super middleweight contest.

In four-round bouts:

Gustavo Morales (1-0, 1 KO) of Allentown, PA battles Najee Belcher (0-2) of Las Vegas in a welterweight contest.

Luis Gonzalez Colon (5-1, 4 KOs) of Aibomito, Puerto Rico faces off against Efrain Cruz (4-6-1, 1 KO) of Viequez, Puerto Rico in a super lightweight bout.

Trinidad Vargas (2-0, 1 KO) of Grand Prairie, Texas boxes Artimus Sartor (4-3, 1 KO) of Cincinnati, Ohio in a bantamweight fight.

Ticket prices are. $200 VIP, $100 ringside, $75 preferred and $60 GA and can be purchased at the following Link:

https://2300arena.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=97




Hard Hitting Promotions Full Card Set For Saturday Night at The Fillmore Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (July 22, 2022)–The Full seven bout card has been set for this Saturday night at The Fillmore Philadelphia that will pit Avery Sparrow (11-3, 4 KOs) and William Foster III (14-0, 9 KOs) in the eight-round super featherweight main event.

The fight card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions

The Sparrow – Foster bout has been deemed one the best main events in recent times in the fighting city of Philadelphia.

In the eight-round co-feature, Christian Tapia (14-0, 12 KO’s) of Coamo, Puerto Rico battles Fernando Romero (11-0, 10 KOs) of Mexico in a super featherweight contest.

In Six-round bouts:

Jan Carlos Rivera (5-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Nelson Perez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Marlboro, Massachusetts. 

Jeremy Cuevas (13-1, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Nicolas Demario (16-6, 10 KOs) of Buenos Aires, Argentina

In Four-round Bouts:

Dezmond Lucas (5-1, 2 KOs) fights Daniel Sostre (13-20-1, 5 KOs) of Puerto Rico in a welterweight contest.

Juan Davilla of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Joshua Maldonado (1-1) of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico in a lightweight tussle.

Carlos Rosario (3-0, 2 KOs) of Winter Haven, Florida will square off with pro debuting Jonuel Ramos of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico in a lightweight fight.

FRIDAY…At the Wyndham Garden Philadelphia (45 Industrial Highway, Essington, PA) The Press Conference and weigh-in will take place for one of the most anticipated fight cards to take place in Philadelphia in recent memory.

?Tickets for the July 23rd fight card are now on sale for $60, $75, $100 and $175 and can be purchased at The Fillmore Philadelphia, www.filmorephilly.com Hard Hitting Promotions Social Media and Ticketmaster.com




AUDIO: Avery Sparrow Talks William Foster III Showdown






VIDEO: Avery Sparrow Talks William Foster III Showdown




AUDIO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 15 w/Avery Sparrow and Christian Tapia






AUDIO: Avery Sparrow vs William Foster III Head-to-Head Press Conference


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VIDEO: Avery Sparrow vs William Foster III Head-to-Head Press Conference




AUDIO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 13 w/Carlos Castro and Avery Sparrow






VIDEO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 13 w/Carlos Castro and Avery Sparrow




Avery Sparrow takes on Undefeated William Foster III in Mouthwatering Main Event on Saturday, July 23rd at The Fillmore Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (JUNE 29, 2022)–On Saturday night July 23rd, a spectacular eight-round main event featuring Philadelphia contender Avery Sparrow and undefeated William Foster III will headline a huge night of boxing at The Fillmore Philadelphia.

The fantastic 11-bout card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Sparrow of Philadelphia has a record of 11-3 with four knockouts. The 28 year-old Sparrow is an eight-year professional who has big wins over Anthony Burgin (10-2), Isaelin Florian Hernandez (6-0), Joey Laviolette (6-0), Jose Lopez (19-1-1), former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-7-1) and his last bout, Sparrow stopped Matt Conway to win the IBA World Super Featherweight and Pennsylvania Super Featherweight title on January 15th in Conway’s backyard in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

Foster of New Haven, Connecticut is 14-0 with nine knockouts. The 28 year-old is a seven year professional who has wins over Suliman Segawa (10-0), Angel Suarez (8-2), Jahmal Dyer (9-2), Philly-Favorite Donald Smith (10-0). In his last bout, Foster took an eight-round split decision over Edwin De Los Santos (13-0) on January 7th in Orlando, Florida. The bout was part of a ShoBox: The New Generation card.

In the co-feature, Undefeated WBA-NABA Super Featherweight and WBC Continental Americas champion Christian Tapia takes on undefeated Fernando Romero in a 10-round bout.

Tapia of Coamo, Puerto Rico has a record of 14-0 with 12 knockouts. The 28 year-old is a five-year veteran. He won the WBA-NABA title with a second round stoppage over Mason Menard (36-5). He then stopped Iron Alvarez (14-0) in 10-rounds. In his last bout, Tapia won a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Lebron (18-2-1) to capture the WBC Continental Americas title on March 12th in Philadelphia.

Romero of Puebla, Mexico is 11-0 with 10 knockouts. The 22 year-old Romero is a four-year professional and is coming off a first round stoppage over Victor Valencia Diaz on October 16, 2021 in Mexico. This will be the United States debut for Romero as all of his fights have been in Mexico.

In six-round bouts:

Jan Carlos Rivera (5-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Nelson Perez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Marlboro, Massachusetts.

Jeremy Cuevas (13-1, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be announced in a lightweight bout.

Dezmond Lucas (5-1, 2 KOs) of Bronx, New York fights Jocksan Blanco (4-0, 2 KOs) of Caracas, Venezuela in a welterweight contest.

Carlos Ramos (15-2. 10 KOs) of Madrid, Spain takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight fight.

Tahmir Smalls (8-0, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight.

In four-round bouts:

David Garcia (3-0, 1 KO) of Crescent City, Florida will take on an opponent to be named in a heavyweight bout.

Carlos Rosario (3-0, 2 KOs) of Winter Haven, Florida takes on an opponent to be named in a lightweight fight.

Chris Echevarria (0-1) of Aguada, Puerto Rico fights an opponent to be named in a bantamweight fight

Juan Davilla of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against an opponent to be named in a lightweight bout.

Tickets are now on sale for $60, $75, $100 and $175 and can be purchased at The Fillmore Philadelphia, www.filmorephilly.com Hard Hitting Promotions Social Media and Ticketmaster.com




Hard Hitting Promotions Signs Avery Sparrow

Philadelphia (March 7, 2022)–Hard Hitting Promotions has announced the signing of featherweight Avery Sparrow.

Sparrow of Philadelphia, has a record of 11-3 with four knockouts. The 28 year-old Sparrow has been a professional for eight-years and is known for his ability to rise to occasion against top competition.

“We are excited to add Avery to our roster. He is a very talented fighter, and can beat anyone in the 126 and 130 pound divisions. He has shown he is willing to fight anyone, and now with Hard Hitting Promotions behind him, Avery will get put in position to get important and meaningful fights on his way for him to fight for a world title. He is just 28 years-old and despite having just 14 fights, he has a ton of experience and success against high quality opponents,” said Manny Rivera of Hard Hitting Promotions.

“It’s a wonderful experience to sign with Hard Hitting Promotions. They are doing a lot of shows. With me on his roster, and the things that I am trying to accomplish, It is a good fit for the both of us and we can help catapult each other to do major things in the sport. I am looking to get back in the ring sometime in April,” said Sparrow.

Sparrow turned professional on July 29, 2014 with a four-round decision over Antoine knight. Sparrow has gained wins over Anthony Burgin (10-2), Isaelin Florian Henriquez (6-0), Joey Laviolette (6-0), Jose Lopez (19-1) and former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-7-1). In his last bout, Sparrow stopped Matt Conway (20-2) in 10-rounds to win IBA World and Pennsylvania Super Featherweight titles on January 15th in Conway’s hometown of Pittsburgh.

Sparrow’s next fight will be announced shortly.




Avery Sparrow upsets Matt Conway for IBA Super Featherweight World title

PITTSBURGH (January 17, 2022) – Philadelphia super featherweight Avery Sparrow (11-3, 4 KOs) upset local favorite Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (20-3, 9 KOs) this past Saturday night, registering a 10th round technical knockout for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Featherweight and Pennsylvania State title, at the Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

“Winter Mayhem”, presented by Gionta Management, was streamed live on www.facebooklive.com.

The scheduled 12-round main event was an old-fashioned battle of cross-state rivals, Philly’s Sparrow and Pittsburgh’s Conway.

Sparrow came out taking advantage of his considerable length advantage, jabbing effectively to rack up points round by round. Sparrow caught Conway with left hooks in the second half of the fight, hurting him in the 10th round. Once Conway was sent backwards to the ropes, Sparrow blasted him with 10 unanswered punches, until referee Chris Riskus waved off the fight. Sparrow led in scoring going into the 10th by scores of 89-82, 88-83 and 87-84.

Sparrow won his first fight in more than three years, when he took a 10-round majority decision over fellow Philadelphian Hank Lundy (29-7-1), snapping Conway’s 3-fight win streak in the process.

“This was our best show yet,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “We had a great crowd at a first-class venue. The main event was a great fight and give credit to Avery and his team on a well-deserved victory. It was a contrast of styles between him and Conway. The slick counter-puncher prevailed in the end over the aggressive pressure fighter.”

“Matt had a very busy 11 months, dating back to last February, going 3-1 with this one being a 12-round title fight. He will look to regroup and resume his career possibly at 126 pounds as he has no trouble making that weight. That will be a decision he and his team will make.”

“I’m eager to see what Avery does next and who (his promoter) Russell Peltz matches him up with as I feel his best days are ahead of him. We were proud to hold such a high-level fight on a regional club show in Pittsburgh. All parties involved were true professionals. My wheels are already spinning for the next show.”

In the co-feature, Alliance, Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford improved to 7-1 (5 KOs) by stopping an overmatched Charles Clark (3-9-1, 1 KO) when Clark’s corner threw in a white towel late in round one. Ford controlled the fight with his long jab and sharp combination punches to the head and body over a usually game and durable Clark.

Illinois heavyweight Anthony Hollaway (4-2-2, 3 KOs) overcame a 42-pound weight disadvantage against Thomas Hawkins (4-10-1, 1 KO) to take a 4-round unanimous decision. Holloway controlled the action from start to finish against a game Hawkins and mixed in some good power shots in spurts while eluding counters from Hawkins. Hawkins showed some spark with his left hand at times, but Hollaway was too skilled.

Lightning quick super featherweight Alexander Castellano (6-1, 2 KOs) started strong and never took his foot off the pedal versus Shawn Rall (1-5, 1 KO) as the former pitched a shutout, winning each round on all three judges’ scorecards. There were no knockdowns and neither fighter was hurt at any point. Rall put up a game performance once again.

Portugal super featherweight prospect Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (3-0, 2 KOs) remained undefeated as he used his 8” height advantage against an elusive and rugged David Boria (0-5), of Ashtabula, OH. Jeremias owned the first two rounds, but his Ohio opponent came back strong in the third round, rocking Jeremias with a solid head shot, and he carried the fight to the final bell. Jeremias won a 4-round majority decision.

Complete results below:


OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT

VACANT IBA SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD & PENNSYLVANIA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Avery Sparrow (11-3, 4 KOs), Philadelphia, PA

WTKO10 (1:30)

Matt Conway (20-3, 8 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA

(Sparrow won the IBA Super Featherweight World & Pennsylvania State titles)

CO-FEATURE-LIGHTWEIGHTS

Ryizeemmion Ford (7-1, 5 KOs), Alliance, OH

WTKO1 (2:51)

Charles Clark (3-8-1, 1 KO), Dallas, TX

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Anthony Hollaway (4-2-2, 3 KOs), Peoria, IL

WDEC4 (40-36 x 3)

Thomas Hawkins (4-10-1, 1 KO)

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Alexander Castellano (6-1, 2 KOs), Tonawanda, NY

WDEC4 (40-36 X 3)

Shawn Rall (1-5, 1 KO), Bedford, OH

Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (3-0, 1 KO), Porto, Portugal

WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 38-38)

David Boria (0-5), Ashtabula, OH


INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta

Twitter: @DGionta

Instagram: @d_p_g1

LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement




AUDIO: Rolando Romero talks to the media after his 7th round stoppage over Avery Sparrow






VIDEO: Rolando Romero Post Fight Press Conference after stoppage over Avery Sparrow




Fulton Decisions Leo; Wins WBO Super Bantamweight Title

Stephen Fulton Jr. showed his versatility as he outpointed and outpunched Angelo Leo to capture the WBO Super Bantamweight title at the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut.

In round one, Leo was cut over his left eye as the result of an accidental headbutt. The two fought inside for much of the bout, which would have seemed to favor Leo, but Fulton beat the now-former champion Leo at his own game as he was much quicker and active. Leo would attempt to work the body, but it was Fulton who showed the class in this bout.

Fulton landed 364 of 1183 punches; Leo was 262 of 810.

Fulton had answers for any and everything that Leo threw at him, and he cruised home with the victory and title by scores of 119-109 twice and 118-110.

Fulton of Philadelphia is now 19-0. Leo of Albuquerque, NM is 20-1.

Stephen Fulton Jr., Quotes:

“It feels good. I told you that I would engage more in this fight. I boxed a little but I engaged more to show him that I’m better than him at what he does best. They didn’t know I was going to come and engage in a fight like this. I’m used to dealing with fighting inside the gym, inside the ring. Everyone I’ve fought tried to bully me. This time I did to them what they try to do to me. And I got the job done.

“At some point I felt like I touched him but he didn’t show that he was ready to go although he might have been ready to go. His face showed that he was surprised by my punching power.

“I wore him down by attacking his body and pushing him back. I had to change the whole narrative, push him back and dropping those uppercuts in. That’s how I got the job done.

“From like the fifth round, that’s when I knew I was going to take off. I never got tired from engaging. This fight I was prepared and I knew that’s what I came to do. So by the fifth, I knew I was taking the fight away from him.

“Early on, I noticed he was landing a lot of good right hands as I was pulling back – and that’s one of the things my trainer told me not to do in the dressing room. I made the adjustments and smothered the shots to make sure I wouldn’t get caught again.

“I would like to fight another title-holder. I’d like to show I’m the best in the weight division. I am just a better fighter and I’m better at what he does. I just showed I was better overall and I’m going to continue to show that. I’m just lost for words right now. He wasn’t going to take no for an answer but I had to force the issue. I am a great body puncher. I’m so used to boxing but I had to show y’all the other side to me.

“After a year off, I feel I did a good job but I could be a lot better, a lot sharper. I want Luis Nery, Brandon Figueroa…I want all the champions. I want to be undisputed.

“It hasn’t hit me yet. When it hits me, I’m going to act the fool. Dancing, going crazy. This is a dream come true right now. I’m a world champion. Not everyone can be a world champion.

“This was the first fight I wasn’t really nervous. I knew I was in shape. I barely got tired. The ring rust was there somewhat but I kinda feel like I broke out of that. Just going through everything I went through, COVID and all, getting through that helped me.

“The bully got bullied. It always happens. I’m the new! The game plan was to box at first, but when I got in there and when I saw that I made a couple of mistakes and he was landing the right hand cleanly, I had to get a little dirty and fight his fight. I had to show him that I’m the better man to fight his style. I had to flip the script a little bit and I knew I had to continue to bang with him, and I did.

“Probably around the fifth or sixth round I started to see he was breathing a little heavy.

“There wasn’t any ring rust because of all the things I’ve been through; in 2020 we’ve all been through some crazy things and it’s been a rough year for all of us. But I felt that’s what changed my mind set and made me love the sport even more. Because I felt like I lost my opportunity and it gave me the chance to see that when something is taken away from you, you find that love and that love was boxing.

“It feels good because I’m the only world champion of any sport in Philadelphia. A lot more of us will have our hand raised, like Jaron Ennis and other talented fighters from Philadelphia.

“There’s a lot more that I can work on and I see that in the ring, but as long as I came and took the title from the world champion I just got to get back, and relax at this point.

“Maybe a unification belt is next. I want to pursue my goal of that and that’s why I was screaming ‘Undisputed!’ That’s what I want to do. That’s what I’m here for and what I want to do.

“I showed I was the better man. I met his promoter Floyd [Mayweather] at the Wilder fight, and he said he didn’t know me. But I bet he knows me now. I wish he would give me that bonus he said he was going to give Leo.”

“Philly, we back. That’s all I’ve got to say. I made my name in the books, I made history.”

Aleem Stops Pasillas in 11

Ra’eese Aleem won the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight Title with an emphatic 11h round stoppage over Victor Pasillas in a battle of undefeated fighters.

In round two, Aleem dropped Pasillas with a hard left hook. In round six, Aleem dropped Pasillas again with a left hook.

In round nine, Pasillas showed some life, but then Aleem landed a left that made the glove of Pasillas touch the canvas for a knockdown. In round 11, Aleem landed a perfect left hand that sent Pasillas to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:00

Aleem, 121 1/2 lbs of Las Vegas is 18-0 with 12 knockouts. Pasillas, 122 lbs of Redwood City, CA is 15-1-1.

Ra’eese Aleem Quotes:

“I feel great. We had a good camp. I was dominant. I wanted to put an exclamation point with this performance. It feels absolutely amazing. It just confirms what I knew in my head, that I have elite power. He’s one of the top fighters in the division so to knock him out, it means I’m a true threat.

“I think a lot of people were sleeping on me and my power. I wasn’t surprised that I stopped him. I didn’t think he’d be able to go the distance with me. I think a lot of the fighters in this division should really be on notice.

“I wanted to knock him out. But I wasn’t necessarily trying to go for the knockout early. I was just seeing the openings and everything came together.

“It doesn’t matter who I fight next. I’m ready to fight any world champion. Whether it’s the winner of Leo-Fulton or if Murodjon Akhmadaliev wants to come out of hiding.

“Any current world champion that’s willing to fight, I’m ready. I’ve got the pen, send the contract. Whether that’s Brandon Figueroa, Akhmadaliev – he has two of the belts and is a tremendous fighter. He hasn’t defended his belts yet. Any one of those fights would be a great fight.

“I couldn’t feel his power. There wasn’t like one punch he hit me with and I was like, ‘Damn, I got to watch out.’ I knew he was a hard hitter but I didn’t feel his power tonight.

“I’m a diverse fighter. Coming into this fight, I didn’t know what kind of fighter I was facing. But I pride myself in being able to adapt. I’m not one-dimensional: I can brawl, I can box. I just took what he gave me.

“I was able to give him different looks. And being able to explode in those small spaces, I feel I was able to capitalize.

“Early on, I was touching him and he could feel my power. He was grunting when I hit him in the body. So I knew he didn’t want to be aggressive because he could feel it.”

Romero stops Sparrow in 7

Rolando Romero stopped late-replacement Avery Sparrow in round seven of their 12 round non-title bout.

Seconds into the fight, Romero dropped Sparrow with a hard left hook to the side of the head. In round six, Sparrow was deducted two points for low blows.

With the fight getting out of hand, the corner of Sparrow stopped the bout at 43 seconds of round seven.

Romero, 134 1/2 lbs of Las Vegas is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Sparrow, 136 lbs of Philadelphia is 10-4.

Rolando Romero:

“I was very disappointed, I really wanted to fight Justin Pauldo. But things happen – at least I had another opponent.

“I fought a dirty fighter. He hit me with a dozen, if not more, low blows, back of the head, trying to wrestle but it is what it is. I got the victory. I dropped him with that hook in the opening round. I thought it would be over but he’s slick – he knows how to survive.

“I didn’t really get to showcase the angles. I believe it was the last round, I started letting off. My defense was sharp, I was just sharp in general. I wouldn’t say it was improvement from my last fight; just showing more of what I have.

“The person that fought Jackson Marinez wasn’t me. I had a bad camp, I didn’t do the things I was supposed to do. The big part, he fought scared and made it very difficult. Marinez was supposed to rematch me. He decided not to even though we offered more money.

“With Sparrow, he fought like a coward. He just wanted a street-fight because he knows he wasn’t going to do anything to me. It came to low blows, hitting behind the head. His corner did the right thing by stopping it. In that last moment before they stopped the fight, he was hurt again and there was a lot of time left in the round. He’s lucky they stopped it.

“You guys said you want to see me box and you saw me box. At the end, his corner quit and he fought like a coward. I boxed good.

“I thought I had him out in the first but he’s really good at surviving.

“I’m a growing fighter. I came into this game eight years ago, I started boxing late and didn’t have much of an amateur career. I’m learning on the job. The old me would have went in there to destroy him.

“Boxing fans are the most bi-polar people I’ve ever seen in my life. There are so many fighters that have gone through the things I’ve gone through. Boxing is a very toxic sport. I just want the best and I just want the best for the future. I hope I keep entertaining you guys because at the end, that’s all that matters—and entertaining myself.

“I want that WBC belt. That’s what I want. I want a fight with Devin Haney.”




FOLLOW LEO – FULTON LIVE!!

Follow all the action as Angelo Leo defends the WBO Super Bantamweight title against Stephen Fulton Jr.  The co-feature will be the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title match as Ra’eese Aleem takes on Victor Pasillas.  The show begins at 9 pm ET with a light fight featuring Rolando Romero and Avery Sparrow.

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED.  THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY.

12 ROUNDS–WBO SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE–ANGELO LEO (20-0, 9 KOS) VS STEPHEN FULTON JR. (18-0, 8 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
LEO 9 10 9 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 110
FULTON* 10 9 10 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 118

Round 1: Jab from Fulton..Left hook to body from Leo..Jab from Fulton..Leo cut over left eye (Accidental headbutt)

Round 2 Sharp jab from Fulton..Double left hook from Leo…

Round 3 Double-Jab from Fulton; Body shot from Leo…Lead left hook and right to body from Fulton..Body shot from Leo…Right uppercut from Fulton

Round 4 Right from Leo…Left hook to the body..Jab from Fulton..Right uppercut..Right and left from Leo..Good right from Fulton..Right from Leo stuns Fulton

Round 5 Nice right from Leo…Body shot from Fulton..Chopping right from Fulton..Right uppercut..

Round 6 Short left and uppercut from Fulton..Big right uppercut

Round 7  Right to head from Fulton…Right uppercut..Nice left hook from Leo..Right uppercut from Fulton..Right hand..Body Punch from Leo..Right..combination from Fulton…

Round 8  Uppercut from Fulton..Choppimg right…Body shot from Fulton

Round 9 Good jab from Fulton…

Round 10  Fulton jabbing.Bidy work from Leo..Fulton working on the inside

Round 11  Good right from from Fulton

Round 12 Fulton jabbing from distance

118-110; 119-109 TWICE FOR THE NEW CHAMPION STEPHEN FULTON

12 ROUNDS–WBA INTERIM SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE–RA’EESE ALEEM (17-0, 11 KOs) vs VICTOR PASILLAS (16-0, 9 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
ALEEM 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 10 10 KO 99
PASILLAS 9 8 9 9 9 8 9 10 8 9 88

Round 1 Combination from Aleem..Body shot..Right hand

Round 2 Pasillas lands a left.. Jab and body combo from Aleem…SWEEPING LEFT AND DOWN GOES PASILLAS…Right buckles Pasillas….Hard left to the body

Round 3 Body work from Aleem..Counter left from Pasillas

Round 4 Double left hook from Aleem..Left followed by left to body..2 short left hooks..Pasillas lands a counter

Round 5 Straight right from Aleem..Double left and right..Counter right from Pasillas..Counter left from Aleem

Round 6 Double left hook from Aleem..Lead Right…LEFT HOOK AND DOWN GOES PASILLAS…Lead left from Pasillas…

Round 7 Big left rocks Pasillas…Hard body shot..Big Right..

Round 8 Ringside Doctor looks at Pasillas in between rounds….Left from Pasillas..Left..Good right hook..Left knocks Aleem off balance..

Round 9 Left from Pasillas…ALEEM LANDS A LEFT THAT MADE PASILLAS GLOVE TOUCH CANVAS..Aleem lands a left uppercut and left to head

Round 10 Straight left from Pasillas…Double Jab from Aleem…Good right..Body shot

Round 11 BIG COUNTER LEFT HOOK AND DOWN GOES PASILLAS…FIGHT OVER

12 Rounds Lightweights–Rolando Romero (12-0, 10 KOs) vs Avery Sparrow (10-2, 3 KOs)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Romero 10 10 10 10 10 10 TKO 60
Sparrow 8 9 9 9 9 7 51

Round 1: Right AND BIG LEFT HOOK AND DOWN GOES SPARROW..1-2 from Romero
Round 2 Short left hook from Romero….Combination on the ropes
Round 3 Counter jab from Sparrow… Good left hook from Romero
Round 4 Combination from Romero
Round 5 Jab from Romero…1-2 from Sparrow…Good right from Romero..Right
Round 6 Good combination from Romero…Sparrow hurts leg and goes down..no knockdown..SPARROW DEDUCTED  2 POINTS FOR A LOW BLOW
ROUND 7   FIGHT STOPPED BY SPARROW’S CORNER




ANGELO LEO VS. STEPHEN FULTON, JR., FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR MAIN EVENT OF SATURDAY’S SHOWTIME® TRIPLEHEADER

WBO Junior Featherweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Angelo Leo – 121 ½ lbs.

Stephen Fulton, Jr. – 122 lbs.

Referee: David Fields (N.J.); Judges: Frank Lombardi (Conn.), Waleska Roldan (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (New Jersey),

Interim WBA Super Bantamweight Title – 12 Rounds

Ra’eese Aleem – 121 ½ lbs. 

Victor Pasillas – 122 lbs.

Referee: Danny Schiavone (Conn.); Judges: Glenn Feldman (Conn.), John McKaie (N.Y.), Don Trella (Conn.)

Lightweight Bout – 12 Rounds

Rolando Romero – 134 ¼ lbs.

Avery Sparrow – 136 lbs.

Referee: Johnny Callas (Conn.); Judges: Tom Carusone (Conn.), Waleska Roldan (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

Note: Romero was originally scheduled to defend his interim lightweight title against Justin Pauldo, who exceeded the 135-pound limit. Avery Sparrow will take Pauldo’s place in the bout. Romero’s title will not be on the line.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say during Fight Week:

Angelo Leo

“Training at Mayweather’s Gym has really helped me just for the fact that you get so many different fighters coming in from all over the world, and you see so many different styles and different looks. So it’s great for me. It really pushes me. It’s a great experience for any fighter to train there.

“The one thing Floyd told me is that he was going to make me a champion in two years. He kept his word, two and a half years or less I became a world champion. He wasn’t as present for this camp, but at my last camp he deeply impacted me with tips on how to approach the fight with Fulton and his style. Tips that carried over into this camp.

“Fulton’s a good fighter. He’s got his style down pat. He likes to use his jab and control the distance. You can’t take anything away from him. He was out for a year, so I’m taking advantage of that.

“My advantages are my pressure, my work rate and my boxing IQ. I think a lot of people underestimate that about me.

“It means a lot to be the first champion from Albuquerque since Johnny Tapia. I looked up to Tapia and Johnny Romero, so to be the next is an honor. Albuquerque is a fight town, but it’s not the biggest city so there’s a lot of unseen talent there.

“The 122-pound division is stacked with a lot of talent. There’re a lot of fighters who are still undefeated, and I just want to fight the best. This fight against Fulton has taught me a lot already; it’s a huge fight for me. I know that winning this already solidifies my spot. Then, I can focus on who is the next big fight.”

Stephen Fulton Jr.

“Some of the fighters I like are Bernard Hopkins, [Joe] Frazier, and Meldrick Taylor. They mean a lot to me, and to the sport of boxing and the history of Philadelphia. I watched the guys who were leading and now I’m leading. It’s just a big accomplishment to say you’re trying to lead the new era for your city.

“I don’t think much of Angelo Leo. I wasn’t impressed with his last fight. Just pressure. That’s about the only thing he brings. There are things he’s probably never seen before. I come with angles and my ability to punch off angles.

“Not fighting back in August kind of pushed me. It didn’t have a bad effect. It made me push myself to the limit in training just knowing that it was all taken away that first time.

“I would like to get past this and unify. Fights like against Leo and [Luis] Nery are easy fights for me. Their styles and my styles are tailor-made for each other. What they both do fits my style perfectly.”

Ra’eese Aleem

“Myprevious manager wasn’t doing much as far as getting me fights, so I had to take matters into my own hands, and that’s when I decided to leave Michigan for a new life in Las Vegas. I had $3,000 in my pocket with no family or friends. I just had faith in myself and started to make my own way. It was rough in the beginning, but I made it work, and now I’m a better man, and a better fighter because of that decision. It forced me to be responsible, hence me being more mature. There was not time for games in my plan. 

“Fighting an undefeated fighter like Pasillas is what great fighters do. I want to fight the best now, and Pasillas is one of the best fighters in the division. I’m not ducking or dodging anyone. I’m going to be a world champion by all means necessary. Once I beat Pasillas, I’m coming for [Murodjon] Akhmadaliev, then all the other champions.

“Fighting in the bubble was something new, but this is COVID time, so we have to get used to it. To me it’s not a problem. I’m a fighter and I don’t care if fans are there or not. I’m just ready to dominate.

“As far as the main event fighters, neither of them will be able to hang with me. I’m the best fighter in the division period!”

Victor Pasillas

“Representing East Los Angeles means everything to me because I have so many people back home in East L.A. who believe in me. When I was coming up in the amateurs, I always had a big crowd attending my fights. East L.A. has always been a city known for its great boxers, and I want to continue that tradition.

“I’ve always been a monster in the weight room. I’m just a gym rat who loves to work out. My whole life outside of home is in the gym, either boxing or in the weight room. My power has improved as I’ve grown into my man strength, and right now I think I’m at my peak as a man. Everyone will definitely see some serious power coming from me on fight night.

“I don’t know much about [Aleem] personally, but I know he’s a good fighter who is ranked higher than me. We both have the same Prince Ranch Boxing manager in Greg Hannley, but I’ve never met him.

This is my second fight in the bubble. I actually love fighting in the bubble. I get so much rest, it’s very refreshing. Usually, I have my wife and kids with me, but to be honest, I need that peace and quiet and being in the bubble forces you to be by yourself, and in return I get great rest. As far as no fans in attendance, I like that as well, because I can hear my coach’s instructions. I feel I can concentrate more and relax better when there are no fans. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing like fighting in front of a big crowd as well. I was built for this, fans or no fans. 

“By far this is the biggest fight of my career because I’m right around the corner of becoming a world champion. Once I get that strap, I’m going to unify all the belts and do the same at featherweight, super featherweight and maybe even bantamweight. All I know is I’m coming for everyone. 

“I don’t want to give up my game plan but best believe I’m going to do whatever it takes to win this fight. If he wants to bang, then we’ll bang, if he wants to box, we’ll box. I’ve seen so many different styles in the amateurs, there is nothing that he brings that I haven’t seen. My power is what he’s going to have to deal with.”

Rolando Romero

“To those that think the scorecards were off in my last fight, I’d say watch the fight again without any commentary and then see what they’d say.

“It’s simple, I like knocking people out. Fans wanna see a knockout. I don’t think it hurts my chances at landing the big fights in the future, but I know there are fighters in the division who don’t want to step up. 

“I’ve remained focused. I know what I want in life. I’m not a weak-minded sheep that needs an outside force to make me want something. I’m ranked No. 1 by the WBA and I know I’m looking up at champions Gervonta Davis and Teofimo Lopez. But I’m still No. 1, pound-for-pound.”

Avery Sparrow

“I knew this opportunity would come to me, so I have been staying well prepared. I was already on weight. I didn’t need to struggle to make weight this week. I came in here well prepared in case they needed me. Nothing was out of the ordinary for me as I prepared for this.

“I had a full camp. I was already in the gym and they called me about three weeks ago. My manager was talking to me about a fight in February so I was preparing for that. I have been getting ready to fight. I only had to cut about seven to 10 pounds over the last three weeks. I am strong, I am solid, and I am mentally prepared. Justin Pauldo was an easier fight for Romero but now I am here and it’s my turn.

“Rolly is a solid fighter but he makes a lot of amateur mistakes. He relies on his power. He lost his last fight, I believe, but the politics of boxing let him proceed with the victory. It’s in the back of our minds that we need to take over the fight to win on the scorecards. I am so blessed and grateful for this opportunity. The universe is working in my favor and I believe that if I win the fight in the ring then I will be awarded the right decision.

“I am going to take full advantage of this opportunity. I lost a tough decision against Abraham Nova in June that I thought really went my way, but I won’t cry over spilled milk. The fight was on TV so everyone saw what happened. I put seven rounds in the bank that night. But I am going to put on a great show for SHOWTIME.

“I am going to step to Rolly Romero and definitely try to knock him out. I am going out there looking for the knockout. Philly is going to have a big night between me and Stephen Fulton.”

# # #

ABOUT LEO VS. FULTON

Leo vs. Fulton will see WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Angelo Leo take on unbeaten rising star Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. in the main event live on SHOWTIME Saturday, January 23 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

The first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast of 2021 begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a co-main event between unbeaten 122-pounders Ra’eese Aleem and Victor Pasillas for the interim WBA title. In the telecast opener, rising prospect Rolando Romero squares off against Avery Sparrow in a 12-round lightweight bout.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromo and @TGBPromotions on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.




October 9: Janibek Alimkhanuly-Gonzalo Coria, Joseph Adorno-Avery Sparrow and Elvis Rodriguez Added to Emanuel Navarrete-Ruben Villa Card

LAS VEGAS (October 2, 2020) — Undefeated southpaw middleweight phenom Janibek Alimkhanuly is set to introduce ESPN viewers to his brand of “Qazaq Style.” Alimkhanuly will fight Argentinian contender Gonzalo Coria in a 10-rounder Friday, Oct. 9 from the MGM Grand Las Vegas Conference Center.

Alimkhanuly-Coria will serve as the co-feature to the vacant WBO featherweight world title fight between Emanuel Navarrete and Ruben Villa, and both bouts will be televised LIVE on ESPN beginning at 10 p.m. ET.

Undercard action, including a 10-round lightweight showdown between Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno and Avery Sparrow, will stream live on ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET. The ESPN+ stream will also see junior welterweight knockout sensation Elvis “The Dominican Kid” Rodriguez against veteran spoiler Cameron Krael in an eight-rounder.

“Janibek is a future world champion, and I expect him to take advantage of the ESPN platform,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Elvis Rodriguez is a born puncher and a splendid young talent, but Krael is not an easy out. Joseph Adorno can prove a lot with an impressive showing over Avery Sparrow.”

Alimkhanuly (8-0, 4 KOs) turned pro in October 2016 after concluding a sterling amateur run for his native Kazakhstan, which included gold medals at both the Asian and World Championships in 2013 and a berth at the 2016 Rio Olympics. He makes his 2020 debut after going 4-0 in 2019, a year in which he won the WBC Continental Americas and WBO Global belts. Alimkhanuly last fought Nov. 9 on the Jamel Herring-Lamont Roach Jr. undercard in Fresno, Calif., and he knocked out veteran Albert Onolunose in six rounds. Coria (16-3, 6 KOs) is coming off a career-best performance last June, a 12-round unanimous decision over Marcos Reyes in Reyes’ hometown of Chihuahua, Mexico.

“I’ve been out of the ring for a long time, and I’m very anxious to return,” Alimkhanuly said. “I had a great training camp with Buddy McGirt and excellent sparring partners. This is the next step as I prepare to fight for a world title in the near future. I can’t wait for Oct. 9 to show my fans ‘Qazaq Style.’”

Adorno (14-0-1, 12 KOs) has not fought since a January draw against Hector Garcia, and he recently had his scheduled June 23 bout canceled after falling ill before the weigh-in. Adorno, who has wowed audiences with his highlight-reel knockouts, looks to regain his career momentum with an impressive showing against Sparrow (10-2, 3 KOs). A veteran of Philadelphia gym wars, Sparrow is coming off a competitive decision defeat June 25 to the unbeaten Abraham Nova. He took the Nova fight on short notice, but with a full training camp to prepare for Adorno, Sparrow hopes to graduate from prospect-tester to contender.

Rodriguez (9-0-1, 9 KOs) emerged as a “Bubble” superstar, having won three bouts by stoppage in three rounds or less. On July 2, he knocked out Danny Murray in the opening round. Nineteen days later, he stopped Dennis Okoth in the second round. In his last bout, Aug. 29 on the Jose Ramirez-Viktor Postol undercard, he knocked out Cody Wilson in the third round. Krael (17-16-3, 4 KOs) has four wins over previously undefeated prospects, four defeats by split or majority decision, and only one knockout loss. In 2016, he pushed Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas to the limit before losing an eight-round unanimous decision.

In other undercard bouts:

Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson (8-0, 5 KOs) vs. Sonny Duversonne (11-0-2, 8 KOs)
8 Rounds, Middleweight
Simpson, a 20-year-old phenom from Baltimore, made headlines in August when he became the first American-born fighter to sign an advisory deal with MTK Global. Simpson last fought July 11 in Biloxi Miss., where he stopped Alex Sandro Duarte in 1:45. Duversonne has won 10 straight bouts since starting his career 1-0-2.

Bryan Lua (6-0, 3 KOs) vs. Nelson Colon (4-3, 3 KOs)
6 Rounds, Lightweight
Lua, from Madera, Calif., returned Sept. 19 following a layoff of more than two years and knocked out Luis Norambuena with a left hook in the second round. Colon’s only defeats have come against undefeated prospects, and on Aug. 21, he dropped a majority decision to Ofacio Falcon.

Rashiem Jefferson (2-0) vs. Steve Garagarza (2-2-1, 1 KO)
4 Rounds, Junior Featherweight
Jefferson, a 19-year-old prospect from Philadelphia, fought inside the “Bubble” on Sept. 5 and turned back Jose Martinez via four-round unanimous decision. Garagarza, from Laredo, Texas, has never been knocked out as a pro and is coming off a March decision win over Oscar Barrera.

Kahshad Elliott (Pro Debut) vs. Akeem Jackson (1-1, 1 KO)
4 Rounds, Junior Middleweight
Elliott, from Plainfield, N.J., won 10 national titles as an amateur and will turn pro at 154 pounds after attempting to qualify for the Olympics in the 165-pound division. He finished his amateur career with a reported 117-23 record.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to 8.5 million subscribers, offering fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) at ESPNplus.com,ESPN.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.




Abraham Nova Remains Undefeated with Unanimous Decision over Avery Sparrow

NEW YORK (June 26, 2020) – World-Ranked Abraham “Super” Nova remained perfect by pounding out a 10-round unanimous decision over tough Avery Sparrow in a junior lightweight bout at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Nova, 26, who is managed by Split-T Management, took his time and eased into the fight. Over the first half of the fight, Sparrow showed his mettle, and fought on even terms with the world-ranked Nova.

Nova really started to pick up momentum as the fight reached the halfway point, and put his foot on the gas in round eight.

In that round, Nova started to push the action and land some hard combinations. Nova was the boss in the fight over the final five rounds and won by scores of 99-91, 97-93 and 96-94 to to raise his mark to 19-0.

The native of Albany, New York, who is ranked number-six by the WBA and number-seven by the WBO outlanded Sparrow 112-60, which included a 20-7 advantage in round eight and 73-36 over the last five frames.

“Sparrow was slippery in there and tough to hit. I had to be patient and search for my openings. In the last few rounds, I began to time him, and that won me the fight,” Nova said. “Listen, this was a learning experience. I’ll be ready for the top guys in the 130-pound division very, very soon.”

“The fight was satisfying. Abraham followed the gameplan perfectly. He got ring experience. The game-plan was to box more and not rely on his power.,” said Hector Bermudez, Trainer of Abraham Nova.

“Although Sparrow had a good ring IQ, and a difficult Cutie style, Nova made the proper adjustments to win the fight. I knew it was an ugly match-up from the beginning, and far from complimentary to Nova’s ESPN debut. However, we all knew he’d come out victorious. He’s still developing and he will continue to improve in the gym. I have big plans for him in the fall,” Said Tom VanNewhouse of Split-T Management.

Nova is co-promoted by Top Rank, Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotions.




Moloney stops Baez after 7!!

Jason Moloney stopped Leonard Baez after round seven of their scheduled 10-round bantamweight bout at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

In round three, Baez was cut around the left eye. Moleny landed power punches against the hard swinging Baez. Moloney slowly beat down Baez until Baez pulled the plug on the fight after complaining of breathing issues.

Moloney, 117.7 lbs of Kingscliff, AUS is now 21-1 with 18 knockouts. Baez, 118.3 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is now 18-3.

“That was the greatest moment of my career. It was tough watching my brother the other night, but I knew I had a job to do,” Moloney said. “Thank you to my team. I sacrificed so much for six weeks, leaving my fiancée and my baby. I’m just over the moon.
 
“My brother told me he loved me and that he was proud of me. He’ll be back better than ever. Trust me.”

World-Ranked Abraham Nova won a 10-round unanimous decision over Avery Sparrow in a junior lightweight clash.

Nova out-landed Sparrow 112-60, and went on to win by scores of 99-91, 97-93 and 96-94.

Nova, 131.9 lbs of Albany, NY is 19-0. Sparrow, 131.5 lbs of Philadelphia is now 10-2.

Sparrow was slippery in there and tough to hit. I had to be patient and search for my openings. In the last few rounds, I began to time him, and that won me the fight,” Nova said. “Listen, this was a learning experience. I’ll be ready for the top guys in the 130-pound division very, very soon.”

Orlando Gonzalez remained undefeated by winning a eight-round unanimous decision over Luis Porozo in a featherweight.

In round two, Gonzalez dropped Porozo with a straight left to the head.

In round seven, Gonzalez dropped Porozo with a right hook.

Gonzalez, 126 lbs of Aguadilla, PR won by scores of 77-83 and 76-74 twice, and is now 15-0. Porozo, 125 lbs of Santo Domingo, ECU is 15-3.

Vlad Panin won a six-round majority decision over Benjamin Whitaker in a welterweight bot.

Panin, 149 lbs of Los Angeles, CA won by scores of 58-56 twice and 57-57 and is now 8-1. Whitaker, 149 lbs of San Antonio, TX 13-4.

Reymond Yanong won a six-round split decision over Clay Burns in a welterweight bout.

Yanong, 143 lbs of Paranaraque, PHL won by scores 59-55 and 58-56; Burns took a card 58-56.

Yanong is 11-5-1. Burns, 143.6 lbs of Alexandria, LA is 9-8-2.

Kingsley Ibeh stopped Waldo Cortes in round four of their scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round four, Ibeh landed four hard uppercuts to the chin that startled Cortes. Ibeh dropped Cortes with a right hook that put him down, and the fight was stopped at 1:41.

Ibeh, 286.4 lbs of Phoenix avenged his only defeat and is now 4-1 with all wins coming by stoppage. Cortes, 246.9 lbs of Phoenix is 5-3.




Split-T Management’s World-Ranked and undefeated Abraham Nova battles Avery Sparrow TONIGHT in Las Vegas

NEW YORK (June 25, 2020) – TONIGHT at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, world-ranked and undefeated junior lightweight Abraham “Super” Nova takes on tough Philly-based Avery Sparrow in the co-feature bout of a Top Rank promoted card on ESPN (8 PM ET / 5 PM PT)

Nova, 26, of Albany, New York has a record of 18-0 with 14 knockouts.

The four-year pro is currently ranked number-six by the WBA and number-seven by the WBO, will be making his 2nd start of 2020. He is coming off a 4th round stoppage of 57-fight veteran Pedro Navarrete on January 18th in Verona, New York.

Nova has wins over Martin Nicolas Matamala (9-2), Andres Zapata (7-1), Hassan Nourdine (9-2); He won the NABA Super Featherweight title with a unanimous decision over Suliman Segawa (11-1).

He also defeated Brian Pelaez (8-2), Mario Lozano (18-2-1) and Luis Ronaldo Castillo (20-3).

Sparrow of Philadelphia is 10-1 with three knockouts. Sparrow has some impressive wins as he defeated Anthony Burgin (10-2), Isaelin Florian (6-0), Joey Laviolette (6-0), Jose Lopez (19-1-1), and his last bout when he won a majority decision over crosstown rival and former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-7-1) on March 15, 2019 in Philadelphia.

At Wednesday’s weigh-in, Nova was 131.9 lbs. Sparrow was 131.5 lbs.

Nova is co-promoted by Top Rank, Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotions.




FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION JAMES ‘BUSTER’ DOUGLAS TO BE SPECIAL VIP GUEST FOR CANCIO VS. ALVARADO II

INDIO, CALIF. (Nov. 1, 2019): Former heavyweight world champion James “Buster” Douglas will be the special VIP guest for the highly anticipated rematch between champion Andrew “El Chango” Cancio (21-4-2, 16 KOs) and Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado (31-8, 20 KOs) in a 12-round fight for the WBA Super Featherweight World Title. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Douglas is best known for his electrifying upset against an undefeated “Iron” Mike Tyson to become the undisputed champion in the heavyweight division. In a career that lasted from 1981 to 1999, Douglas went in the ring with the likes of Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield, Terver Berbick and Oliver “The Atomic Bull” McCall. Douglas will be in attendance for this event to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

In the co-main event, Xu Can (17-2, 3 KOs), China’s third world champion, will defend his WBA Featherweight World Title against rising contender Manny Robles III (18-0, 8 KOs) of Los Angeles in a 12-round fight that is guaranteed to produce fireworks.

Golden Boy is also proud to announce that a special 10-round attraction between super featherweight prospects Avery ‘A-Plus’ Sparrow (10-1, 3 KOs) and James ‘Crunch Time’ Wilkins (8-1, 6 KOs) has been added to the card. This will be a clash between two highly regarded talents from the East Coast.

Rashidi “Speedy” Ellis (21-0, 14 KOs) of Boston will fight Eddie “Eboy” Gomez (23-3, 13 KOs) of the Bronx, N.Y. in a 10-round rematch for the vacant WBA Continental Americas Welterweight Title. Ellis is very close to a world title opportunity, while Gomez is eager to avenge his stunning first-round knockout loss to him in 2016.

Victor Morales Jr. (12-0, 7 KOs) of Vancouver, Wash. will return in an eight-round super featherweight bout. This will be Morales’ first fight on a Golden Boy card after signing with the company.

Alex Rincon (7-0, 6 KOs) of Dallas will return in a six-round super welterweight fight.

Alberto “Impacto” Melian (5-1, 3 KOs) of Buenos Aires, Argentina will participate in an eight-round super bantamweight fight.

There will also be two addition non-streamed fights. This includes the return of Argentine puncher Marcelino “Nino” Lopez (36-2-1, 21 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Also, Chinese contender Baishanbo Nasiyiwula (15-3-1, 6 KOs) will participate in a eight-round 140-pound clash against Saul Corral (30-14, 20 KOs) of Sonora, Mexico.

Opponents for Rincon and Lopez will be announced shortly.

Cancio vs. Alvarado II is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super Featherweight World Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN. The title defense is one of several highlights this fight season on DAZN – an entire fall featuring boxing’s biggest matchups in one of the best schedules in boxing history.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CancioAlvarado2.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/CancioAlvarado2 into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy Promotions for any photo and/or video usage.




VIDEO: Munguia vs. Allotey // Garcia vs. Sparrow Final Press Conference




JAIME MUNGUIA AND RYAN GARCIA LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES,

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (Aug. 13, 2019): Jaime Munguia (33-0, 26 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico hosted a press conference today at the Golden Boy Headquarters in Los Angeles, Calif. ahead of the 12-round defense of his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title against African warrior Patrick Allotey (40-3, 30 KOs). He was joined by co-main event fighters Ryan “Kingry” Garcia (18-0, 15 KOs) and Avery “A-Plus” Sparrow (10-1, 3 KOs) who will battle in a 10-round lighweight fight. The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Below is what today’s participants had to say at the press conference:

JAIME MUNGUIA, WBO Junior Middleweight Champion:

“I feel very happy to be the main event for this Mexican Independence Day fight. It’s going to be a great day for boxing and a great day for Mexico. My desire on September 14th is to demonstrate everything I’ve been learning with my new trainer Erick Morales. I have a great fighter in front of me and we are going to show it in the ring.”

“We know that Allotey is strong, fast and has a lot of knockouts. We will have to be very careful about that. But, I’ll be looking to give a great show, and I’ll look for the knockout on September 14.”

RYAN GARCIA. Lightweight Contender:

“Thank you to everyone who came here. Out of the three fights I was offered I knew Avery was the hardest. He’s a fast and undefeated counter puncher. He’s smart. I wanted to take the hardest fight I got offered. I’m going to bring my all and train like it’s my last, upping my speed and power. I’m going to bring my experience. I’ve seen a lot of fighters out there, and I’m going to bring those wins into the ring as well. Let’s all get ready! Avery is very fast and that’s what I’m going to have to train for. I know that my experience and my training will help me win this fight. I wanted to take on the hardest fight. I’m not trying to prove anything to myself, but to the people who doubt me and the people who don’t think I can handle this fight.”

AVERY SPARROW, Super Featherweight Contender:

“Thank you Golden Boy and all the fans for making this fight happen. Ryan knows I’m a good fighter and this is a big fight, I have a lot of support and people backing me. I’m on a different level than Ryan Garcia, and he hasn’t been to this level yet. I’ve fought fighters with similar experience before, but we will see what happens on September 14th. I hope to see everyone there.”

ERIK MORALES, Hall of Famer and Trainer of Jaime Munguia:

“I’m very grateful to be working with Munguia. He’s a great fighter and a young fighter with a lot of desire to show. It reminds me of when I was younger. He has been improving over our last two months of working together. I assure you that the Munguia you know will be different, but will also deliver the same explosive style he has. We are showing him and guiding him.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy:

“As always we will have a very stacked undercard for this fight. We are excited to host this fight at one of the most exciting venues in California. Dignity Health Sports Park brings out the best in every fighter, so we can’t wait for the fans to experience this fight. This fight will also include a Mexican fiesta featuring bands and activations from Tecate and Orange Crush. The event will be streamed live on DAZN, where we are committed to making the best fights and giving fans and affordable price to watch. Our partners at DAZN have been instrumental in bringing affordable boxing to the masses and on a global scale.”

“We want to make sure that you’re watching the very best. We strongly feel that the fights we have scheduled for this event are even and will give fans their money’s worth. Avery knows what’s at stake and what can transpire by winning this fight. We are truly excited to be showcasing Munguia on an important day for boxing, especially now that he has a new trainer. We strongly feel this new trainer will bring out the best in Munguia. Munguia is willing to jump around into different divisions and every punch he throws is with bad intention. He’s a hard worker and he’s disciplined and dedicated. He’s also a real pleasure outside of the ring.”

FERNANDO BELTRAN, President of Zanfer Promotions:

“First of all, I would like to tell you that it’s an honor to be here in one of the best boxing companies in the world and with Oscar De La Hoya. I also have lots memories on this podium by being here with Erik Morales. Munguia is a special fighter and he will prove that he belongs on the top and fighting the best fighters out there, such as Canelo and Golovkin. I know everyone will enjoy this fight on Mexican Independence Day.”

Munguia vs. Allotey is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and Orange Crush. The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park and will be streamed live on DAZN.

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

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #MunguiaAllotey

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/MunguiaAllotey into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.




GOLDEN BOY AND DAZN TO PRESENT A BIG NIGHT OF BOXING ON MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND!

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (Aug. 10, 2019): Golden Boy and DAZN will continue the tradition of delivering pugilistic action on Mexican Independence Day Weekend as Jaime Munguia (33-0, 26 KOs) takes on Patrick Allotey (40-3, 30 KOs) in a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. The event will take place on Saturday, September 14 and will be streamed live on DAZN.

“We’re excited to be able to continue this tradition that we know many fans anticipate, and this year we’re putting on a series of exhilarating fights that will make for an entertaining night,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Jaime Munguia is an undefeated world champion who has become one of Mexico’s biggest boxing stars. Meanwhile, Patrick Allotey has an impressive skillset with years of experience under his belt. The styles are guaranteed to make a war. We’ve also put together a full card of action in order to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.”

Munguia is a 22-year-old world champion of Tijuana, Mexico who catapulted to the highest levels of the 154-pound division by knocking out Sadam “World Kid” Ali in May to capture the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title. Since then, Munguia has defended his title against the likes of Liam “Beefy” Smith, Brandon “Bad Boy” Cook, Takeshi Inoue and Dennis Hogan. Munguia will now represent his country on the most important date for Mexican boxing.

“I feel very happy for the opportunity of headlining a card on Sept. 14,” said Jaime Munguia. “That’s the best date for boxing in the entire year. It’s a great date for Mexico because that’s when we celebrate Mexican Independence Day. I’m proud and honored to be representing Mexico in the festivals for my country. I’ll give my best and I’ll try to deliver a great fight for all the people and for those who will see us.”

Allotey is a 28-year-old native of Accra, Ghana who debuted as a professional in 2006 when he was only 16 years old. Though suffering losses against Golden Boy’s Patrick Teixeira and standout contender Kanat Islam, Allotey is coming off six victories in a row.

“I respect Munguia. He is a great fighter,” said Patrick Allotey. “But I’m an African warrior, so you know I’ll be coming to cause a big surprise.”

“I’m very excited for Jaime Munguia’s next fight date as he’ll be headlining on Sept. 14, which is an important date for Mexico,” said Fernando Beltran, President of Zanfer Promotions. “I am very proud because our representative will fight on the most important date for Mexicans.

In the co-main event, rising sensation Ryan Garcia (18-0, 15 KOs) of Victorville, Calif. will take on Avery “A Plus” Sparrow (10-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in a 10-round lightweight fight.

“Sparrow is basically an undefeated fighter with a good amateur background,” Ryan Garcia. “People in boxing that know boxing will know this isn’t an easy fight. It will not be overlooked.”

“I’m thankful to Golden Boy and Russell Peltz for the opportunity,” said Avery Sparrow. “Ryan Garcia has yet to be tested, and it’s a big step up for him. It’s not much of a step up in opposition for me. It’s his biggest test, not mine. I’m good fighting at 130, but nobody wants to fight me there, so I’m moving up to 135. I look forward to putting on a great show.”

“It’s a difficult fight for Sparrow,” said Russell Peltz. “Once again he has to move up in weight from 130 to 135. None of the 130-pounders want to fight him. However, I am not a big believer that weight difference will determine the outcome. The outcome will be determined by who is the better fighter so long as the judges are fair, and I am sure they will be. Garcia has a prettier record, but Sparrow can more than handle himself.”

Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor” Cano (32-7-1, 22 KOs) of Tlalnepantla, Mexico will defend his WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title in a 12-round fight against Michael “The Artist” Perez (25-3-2, 11 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey. Cano will return from his upset victory over Jorge “El Niño de Oro” Linares, and he will look to fight for a world title at 140 pounds if successful against Perez.

Filipino rising star “Ruthless” Romero Duno (20-1, 15 KOs) will defend his NABO Lightweight Title in a 10-round fight.

Armenian contender Azat “Crazy A” Hovhannisyan (17-3, 14 KOs) will return in a 10-round super bantamweight clash.

Alejandro “Pin Pon” Reyes of Los Angeles, Calif. will make his professional debut in a four-round lightweight fight against Jorge Padron (3-4, 3 KOs) of Sonora, Mexico.

Additional undercard information will be announced shortly.

Munguia vs. Allotey is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and Orange Crush. The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Allotey go on sale Tuesday, August 13 at 10:00 a.m. PT. Tickets are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased at goldenboytickets.com, https://www.axs.com/, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at Dignity Health Sports Park Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/.
Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #MunguiaAllotey

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting
the link: http://bit.ly/MunguiaAllotey into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.




Farmer Outpoints Carroll, Retains IBF World Super Featherweight Title

. Credit: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Tevin Farmer (29-4-1, 6KO) scored a wide unanimous decision and retained his IBF world super featherweight title against Jono “King Kong” Carroll (16-1-1, 3KO) at Temple University’s Liacouras Center, broadcast live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK. Official scorecards read 117-110 and 117-111×2 for Farmer.

It was the 26 year old southpaw challenger, Carroll, however, who got off to the quick start, making a concerted effort to bang Farmer to the body.

But after a brief two round “feeling out” period, the southpaw champion settled in and began countering Carroll to head and body, throwing counter uppercuts from in-close and ripping loaded counter lefts to the body. A clash of heads also caused a nasty cut over Carroll’s right eye, a cut that only worsened as the fight progressed.

In the middle rounds, Farmer, 29, began taking over as Carroll’s offense began to slow and his punches began to hold less steam. There was a lot of in-fighting in the middle rounds, welcomed by the “American Idol”, Farmer, who was content to let Carroll throw a few before firing back the more significant shots.

Although struggling to gain ground through most of the mid-to-late rounds, Carroll did rally in the eighth, scoring mostly with body blows.

As the tenth wound to a close, Farmer hurt Carroll with a short right, sending the bearded Irishman in full retreat. Farmer kept his foot on the gas, connecting with more shots, but Carroll was able to ride out the storm until the end of the round.

The championship rounds went to Farmer, as well, securing the victory and his title.

It was the third successful title defense, and first in Philadelphia, for Farmer, who won his belt against Australian Billy Dib last August.

Farmer, who early in his career, without proper promotional guidance found himself prematurely pitted against tough opponents. After just twelve pro fights, Farmer’s record already sported four losses and one draw. Seven-plus years later, those numbers remain unchanged.

Farmer’s last loss came via stoppage against Jose Pedraza in 2012.

For his part, Carroll gave a good account for himself in his first world title challenge and first fight on American soil.

The Dublin native is now winless in his last two contests, having fought to a draw against Frenchman Guillaume Frenois (46-1-1, 12KO) in December.

Katie Taylor Wins Another Title, Stops Rose Volante

In a world female lightweight unifier between two previously unbeaten champions, Ireland’s Katie Taylor (13-0, 6KO) added the WBO title to her collection (IBF, WBA), stopping Brazil’s Rose Volante (14-1, 8KO) in the ninth of a scheduled ten round contest.

Taylor, a former 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist, started quickly, dropping Volante early in the opening round with a left hook.

Credit Volante, who not only survived the remainder of the first, but then dug in and stood toe-to-toe with Taylor for the duration of the contest. And although she battled and traded with Taylor, Volante was being battered round after round.

In the eighth round Taylor, 32, Taylor shot up off her stool and looked determine to end it, letting her fists fly. But Volante, who was making her third title defense, showed the heart of a true champion and refused to fold.

It wasn’t until the 1:40 mark of the ninth round that referee Benjy Esteves stepped in to stop the punishment and call a halt to the contest.

Taylor remains on track to land a megafight later in this year, either against 7-division champion and current WBO female super flyweight titleist Amanda Serrano or undefeated unified world female welterweight champion Cecelia Braekhus.

Maciej Sulecki Survives Gabe Rosado Surge In North Philly Brawl

In a classic Philly brawl that saw both fighters hit the mat twice, Polish middleweight Maciej Sulecki (28-1, 11KO) outlasted a late surge by veteran fan favorite “King” Gabriel Rosado en route to a ten round unanimous decision victory.

It took less than ninety seconds for action to heat up and big punches to land, as Sulecki, 29, found immediate success with his right hand, firing a right behind Rosado’s left ear that dropped him to the mat. Rosado, 33, was shaken, but not hurt, and was able to navigate his way through the rest of the first.

In the third round, Rosado, who was fighting in his hometown for the first time in seven years, started to gain a bit of momentum. Much like Sulecki, he started also finding a home for his own right hand, landing two nose-crunching rights in the third.

The middle rounds weren’t dominated by either fighter, but it was Sulecki and his rights that were getting the better of Rosado.

Things looked like they might come to an end in the eight when Sulecki landed a left hook-right hand combo that rocked Rosado and sent him to the canvas for the second time in the fight. A woozy Rosado was able to ride out the remainder of the round, much of which was spent with his back against the ropes in a neutral corner, dipping, diving, and dodging Sulecki punches.

Then in the ninth, in classic Philly fashion, Rosado battled back and worked the crowd into a frenzy. The former world title challenger landed a perfectly thrown counter right that exploded on Sulecki’s head, sending the Pole crashing to the mat. Sulecki beat the ensuing ten count, but was quickly met again by another Rosado right, this a looping overhand right, that crumpled Sulecki to the canvas yet again. Credit Sulecki who again beat the referee’s ten count before the bell signaling the end of the ninth round chimed.

In the tenth round, Rosado kept his foot on the gas, trying to end the fight with a single right hand. But Sulecki was able to weather the storm and survive.

In the end, all three judges scored the contest for Sulecki (95-91×2, 95-93).

Sulecki’s only professional loss remains a UD to former world middleweight champion Daniel Jacobs in April 2018.

For Rosado, who was coming off a draw against Luis “Cuba” Arias in November, the result makes it only one win in his last five contests.

Sulecki is now positioned to face off against WBO middleweight titleist Demetrius Andrade.

Luke Campbell TKOs Adrian Yung In 5

Former world lightweight title challenger “Cool Hand” Luke Campbell (20-2, 16KO) made it three wins in a row since his 2017 defeat to Jorge Linares, stopping Adrian “Chinito” Yung (26-6-2, 20KO) in the fifth round of a scheduled ten rounds.

Campbell, a 2012 Olympic Gold medalist, had it his way from the opening bell, controlling the fight from the onset. The British southpaw eventually broke through in the fourth round after a right hand forced Yung, who took the fight on short notice, to a knee.

In the sixth, the 31 year old British southpaw, Campbell, upped the pressure. After landing an unobstructed flurry of shots, referee Eric Dali jumped in to stop the contest at the 1:37 mark of round five.

Campbell remains the mandatory challenger for Mikey Garcia’s 135lb. WBC title. Garcia, of course, squares off against undefeated welterweight champion Errol Spence, Jr. tomorrow night on FOX PPV in Texas.

Raymond Ford Cruises To UD In Pro Debut

In his professional debut, nineteen year-old Matchroom Boxing featherweight prospect Raymond Ford (1-0) earned a four round unanimous decision against Weusi Johnson (3-11).

The former 2018 123-pound National Golden Gloves champion scored a knockdown midway through the first courtesy of a huge left cross, but was unable to stop Delaware’s Johnson before the end the round. No matter to Ford, though, as the Camden, NJ southpaw faced little resistance the rest of the way and cruised to a shutout victory. Scores were 40-35×3.

Yeleussinov Earns Wide UD Against Ortiz

2016 Olympic Gold medalist Daniyar “Kazakh Thunder” Yeleussinov (6-0, 3KO) remained undefeated, scoring a wide eight round unanimous decision against fellow welterweight Silverio Ortiz (37-14, 18KO).

Yeleussinov, a 28 year-old southpaw, started quickly, picking and landing his shots, while using fantastic footwork to keep the 439 round veteran, Ortiz, out of range.

From the third round on, the fight didn’t come as easy for the Matchroom Boxing prospect, as the distance began to close and exchanges increased. There was never a point where the Kazakh wasn’t in control, however, but Ortiz did score with loaded rights, albeit infrequently.

In the seventh, Yeleussinov scored a knockdown that culminated with a punch landing behind Ortiz’s head while he was already on the mat. Referee Benjy Esteves instructed the judges to score the knockdown, but also took a point away from Yeleussinov.

At the end of eight, official scorecards read 79-70 and 79-71×2 for Yeleussinov.

Sparrow Hammers Lundy, Scores MD Win

In a highly anticipated entertaining all-Philadelphia slugfest, Avery Sparrow (10-1, 3KO) scored a ten round majority decision over former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-8-14KO).

It didn’t take long for the two rivals to start exchanging some serious leather, and toward the end of the first round, the 35 year-old southpaw Lundy scored with a short left, followed by a straight right that seemed to grab Sparrow’s attention.

No long lasting impact, however, as the spry 25 year-old, Sparrow, flipped the script in the following round, scoring two knockdowns courtesy of right hands. The first came seemingly out of nowhere, when Sparrow launched an overhand right that caught Lundy flush on the left side of the head, sending him off balance, forcing his glove to touch the canvas. The ensuing knockdown came less than a minute later, as Sparrow countered a wild-swinging Lundy, shooting a straight right down Broad Street, sending Lundy crashing to the mat.

The resilient 241-round veteran Lundy dug deep, though, and came back the very next round and stood toe-to-toe with Sparrow, perhaps even nicking the round.

From the third on it was a seesaw affair, with both fighters willing to eat a few punches to land a few of their own.

Wild exchanges were commonplace almost every time an ensuing round neared end.

When it was all said and done, the three judges turned in cards of 94-94, and 95-93 and 96-92 for Sparrow.

The win is arguably the biggest of Sparrow’s young career, who’s other win of note came against Jose Lopez in 2017.

The result marks the second loss in a row for “Hammerin’” Hank and is his third in his last six contests.

Ballard Stops Fonseca For Second Time In Career

Undefeated super middleweight D’Mitrius Ballard (20-0, 13KO) scored a fifth round stoppage over hardnosed Mexican Victor Fonseca (17-20-1, 14KO) to kick off a night of fights from Temple University’s Liacouras Center. It was the second time the 25 year-old Ballard and Fonseca squared off and the second time Ballard closed the show inside the scheduled distance. In 2015, the Golden Boy Promotions signee stopped Fonseca inside three rounds, and tonight he needed just two more, battering Fonseca around the ring until referee Eric Dali stopped the fight in the fifth of a scheduled ten.

Tonight’s card, presented by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, will culminate when hometown champion Tevin Farmer (28-4-1, 6KO) defends his IBF World Super Featherweight title live on DAZN (US) and Sky Sports (UK) against unbeaten Irishman Jono Carroll (16-0-1, 3KO).




Video: Avery Sparrow talks about his March 15 showdown with Hank Lundy





VIDEO: Hank Lundy talks about Avery Sparrow showdown