CALEB PLANT VS. MIKE LEE MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

Ray Flores
We greatly appreciate the media joining us from wherever they are around the world and we are very excited for Saturday July 20. We have the Super Middleweight Champion of the World Caleb “Sweethands” Plant putting his title on the line against unbeaten Mike Lee. It is the IBF Super Middleweight Championship of the World on the line from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. It is FOX PBC Fight Night live on FOX and FOX Deportes and it all starts at 7 ET/4 PT. Brought to you by TGB Promotions and Sweethands Promotions.

Tickets are available they are going quickly at AXS.com. You can also purchase them over the phone 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resort International box office as FOX PBC Fight Night will proceed the Fox Sports pay-per-view, the PBC paper-view which starts at 9 ET/ 6 PT and that happens also at MGM Grand featuring the Eight Division World Champion Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on the WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman in our main event.

Now Saturday July 20 is going to be a historic night of boxing and we are off to a tremendous start for the summer when it comes to PBC and a catalyst for that has been the promotor and the President of TGB Promotions a man who in my opinion needs to be in the Hall of Fame sooner than later, please welcome my dear friend, the President of TGB Promotions, Mr. Tom Brown.

Tom Brown
Well thank you Ray and thank you for being with us for the Caleb Plant versus Mike Lee IBF Super Middleweight Champion Conference Call. It’s going to be a huge night of boxing in Las Vegas and a spectacular night for the sport of boxing and for FOX on pay-per-view as well.

Caleb Plant will be making the first defense of his title on FOX in primetime as the build-up to the Pacquiao vs. Thurman pay-per-view event. The fans are in for a great night of action.

Caleb Plant put the world on notice with his exciting title winning performance back in January. And now Mike Lee, in his first world title fight has a huge opportunity to prove he belongs with the best as both guys put their undefeated records on the line. So now I’ll throw it back over to Ray to introduce the fighters and get things going. Thank you very much.

R. Flores
Now let’s get an opportunity to meet the challenger who is undefeated, but first I want to acknowledge his terrific team, his trainer Jamal Abdullah also another trainer that he has Julian Chua, Tareq Azim, his strength and conditioning coach.

This man is undefeated. Twenty-one bouts, 21 victories, 11 of those coming by way of knockouts. Thirty-two years of age. He’s been undefeated since turning pro back in 2010. He typically campaigns at 175-pounds but now is going down seven pounds to the super middleweight division. He could not pass up this opportunity having most recently come off of a victory over Jose Hernandez by unanimous decision last year.

Not only is he a terrific fighter but he has accomplished a lot in academics, he’s a graduate of the University of Notre Dame where he earned a degree in Finance from the Mendoza School of Business. I’ve had the opportunity to get to know this young man for the past several years. He comes from a tremendous background and without a doubt, looking to make a statement and achieve his lifelong dream and become a world champion. Ladies and gentleman, please welcome the undefeated Mike Lee.

Mike Lee
I’m excited. I’m in California now feeling phenomenal. Training hard and sparring hard. It’s been the best camp I’ve ever had honestly. Weight is going down beautifully and I just feel fast and strong and ready to do this.

Q
Can you talk about what your goals were when you turned pro and how this fight fits into that?

M. Lee
Well the ultimate goal of any fighter or athlete is to compete at the highest level for a world title, a Super Bowl or whatever that may be. So for me this is a dream come true and I’m excited because you work so hard and go through all the days of training camps and injuries and surgeries and all that to get to this moment here. So it’s the pinnacle of the sport and that’s where I belong and I’m excited to show everybody that on July 20.

Q
What lead to the decision to take a fight at Super Middleweight?

M. Lee
My team and I have been talking about super middleweight if there was an opportunity for a big fight for a while so for me it didn’t necessarily come out of left field but when I got the phone call about this specific opportunity, I was all about it. I knew 168 wouldn’t be a problem and I knew I could bring my power and my speed down to this weight class and rehydrate the right way. So when a world title comes, you say “yes” and especially when I know that I can win. I knew 168 was a comfortable weight for me and here we are.

Q
Are you working with your nutritionist or doing anything different in your training?

M. Lee
Yes, I hired a new nutritionist. Normally I didn’t even really need one to make 175 but I think the key was starting to monitor and really, you know, get this stuff down early on and we had a lot of time to prepare so that’s been the key and he’s made me feel better than I’ve ever felt.

Q
2019 has really been the year of the upsets and I would say it’s fair to say you’re probably the underdog in this fight. Do you take some heart at seeing some of the upsets that have occurred this year in boxing and picture yourself being another one on the list?

M. Lee
Yes, I don’t really pay too much attention to it. Yes, people have been saying that a lot but at the end of the day I’ve just got to be the best me. Those fights and what people say and what anybody else says doesn’t dictate the outcome of this fight when the bell rings and so yes, obviously that’s something to know. That’s the beauty of the sport, it only takes one punch, especially when you have power like mine. It only takes one punch to win something so I like the position I’m in.

Q
How is the training, the preparation been for not just taking on Caleb and also losing the weight and still keeping the power that you had at 175 pounds?

M. Lee
Yes, I mean you just got to get scientific with it and that’s where I get smarter people than me around me and just trusting the team. It’s really about trust. Trusting that the weights I’m pulling are where it needs to be and you’re getting the right carbs, the right amount of fats, the right protein, all that stuff. So I have guys around me that have been doing this their entire lives and understand that. So in terms of preparation, everything gets ramped up for the world title fight. The hunger is increased, the training increases, you’re working harder and smarter so I’m just excited. I’m bringing this excited energy to all these training sessions and that’s what I’ve wanted for a long time. I’ve been top 10 in the world for my past three, four fights so this is what I’ve been waiting for.

Q
Has it been easy shaking off the ring rust during camp with the sparring and the training for this fight?

M. Lee
Yes, it really has been. We knew about this fight a long time ago. This wasn’t one of these things where I got a call four weeks before, six weeks before, so I’ve been training, I’ve been busy and we were just waiting for that phone call. That was really it, the right opportunity. And I’m really grateful my team gave me this opportunity here so yes we’ve had a long time to prepare for this.

Q
In your eyes, what do you think you possess that some of Caleb past opponents don’t have that would allow you to win this fight and become world champion?

M. Lee
Well I’m an entirely different fighter, that’s the beauty of the sport. Every single fight is different. And so it doesn’t matter. I don’t really care what his other opponents have done in or out of the ring. It doesn’t matter. On fight night, the bell rings, it’s just me and him. The best man will win so I never really look into that. I’m just telling you what my opponents say. I’ve been in so many press conferences where opponents either talk shit or they’re dismissive or they’re respectful, all across the board. I’ve beat them all. I plan on doing the exact same thing, so what comes out of his mouth doesn’t concern me whatsoever.

Q
In terms of separation training like you were just talking about, is there anything specifically that you’re changing or doing differently in preparation for Caleb Plant?

M. Lee
Not necessarily. I think, if anything, the weather has gotten better so we’ve done some more beach workouts and whether it’s shadow boxing or strength and conditioning — whatever it is on the beach, always helps. We’ve increased sparring. Listen this is my 22nd fight so we’re not trying to reinvent the wheel here so in a sense, it’s not like we’ve really added too much.

Q
From your surrounding team and the people in your corner, how important have they been in the weeks that you’ve been training and preparing for this fight?

M. Lee
It’s huge. It’s everything. That team is going to war with you and you’ve got to surround yourself with people that believe in the same mission, believe in the same value in anything in life, that’s all of us. We’re a brotherhood. I’ve had the team for a long time and Jamal and Julian are phenomenal and they see things I can’t see and they help me and push me and motivate me and this is a dream come true for the entire team.

Jamal and Julian have been in corners for world title fights already so it’s nothing new to them. Teamwork is everything and most importantly everyone having the same vision which is exactly what we have.

Q
You’ve worked with Ronnie Shields and now Jamal Abdullah. What are some of the benefits or the greatest takeaways that you can take from all three of them?

M. Lee
I’ve learned so much from them. Ronnie I’m still good friends with. I turned pro with Ronnie in Houston, Texas and I was down there with a bunch of world champions so at a very early part of my pro career I got to get in there with some of the world’s best and just learned. Ronnie is phenomenal. Big on the fundamentals and just a calm, cool, collective guy. He’s been in the ring himself and I love Ronnie to death. He’ll be a friend for life.

Q
Why the 13-month layoff between the Hernandez fight and the Plant fight?

M. Lee
If anything we were looking for the right fight. I wasn’t with a promoter and we were looking to sign and we were talking to a lot of different promoters and certain opportunities came up and then like always in boxing, they say it’s going to happen and it falls through. And you can’t believe anything until you sign the contract so obviously after that fight, I took some time off, got back in the gym and then it was a frustrating few months just kind of waiting for that phone call. But we got it, so we’re here.

Q
I would think that you would look at maybe some things there that previous opponents may have done with Plant that you may have seen to take advantage of?

M. Lee
Yes, of course, you watch film. You definitely watch film and you see what guys did well and didn’t do well all of that kind of stuff. I was just saying you don’t really take it to heart because those guys aren’t me. You take it to heart in terms of what you’re looking at or you’re staring at in terms of film study and what not but it’s the mentality of knowing that, yes, it’s good to have those specifics down and a game plan down and certain combinations and a strategy down but at the end of the day those guys aren’t me so that’s what I meant about that.

Q
Is there anyone you’ve faced whether it be sparring or were actually in the ring with that’s most like Caleb and why?

M. Lee
I don’t know, I haven’t fought him yet. No one specific comes to mind in terms of but I’ve been fighting since I was 8-years old. I’ve been pro for 21 fights. I’ve been in and out of pro camps sparring and I’ve sparred and been in the ring with so many different guys so yes, you see a little bit of everything.

Q
Have you had like a standard eight-week training camp or is it extended beyond that?

M. Lee
Yes, extended beyond that but, we didn’t want to burn out so it wasn’t like we were boxing every single day. We were just getting strength and conditioning. Just getting the timing and the rhythm down. I think that really helps as you ease into it because I think too often fighters come into a training camp and they’re 25 pounds overweight or they’re not in shape yet and we had the luxury of coming into camp in shape. So camp wasn’t about getting in shape necessarily and losing weight as much as it was just fine-tuning things and keeping the rhythm.

Q
How instrumental has Notre Dame been in this fight? What have they done to kind of champion you on and do you expect any Notre Dame Legends to appear at your fight?

M. Lee
Yes, absolutely. I’ve had a lot of Notre Dame guys call in when they had their Notre Dame Day and Media Day and support me whether it’s buddies that I have known through the Notre Dame community, guys that played football like Justin Tuck, Golden Tate or just so many amazing people that I’ve met through that community. Notre Dame has been phenomenal. They got a camera crew coming out next week to spread the message to the alumni network so I’m just super appreciative of that community. It’s taught me a lot. It’s really matured me and it’s taught me a lot about giving back too.

They’ve been involved in pretty much all my fights throughout my career involve in different children’s charities and Notre Dame charities and so it’s been exciting to be a part of that community and alumni network.

Q
Have you had any updates on Tavion or if he was planning on being at this fight?

M. Lee
Unfortunately, I don’t think he’ll be able to fly out to Las Vegas but he just had a birthday party that I sponsored and took care of and made sure people were there and I’m still in contact with him and I plan on seeing him after this fight, so he’ll be watching on TV but yes I got to bring him in the ring and he held my belt. And I mean, it’s a beautiful moment when I’ve been able to really connect with a lot of different kids whether it through Family Reach or different children’s charities and if I get a chance to do what I love which is boxing and also give back, it’s such a win-win. And there’s been many different cases of kids like Tavion that I’ve helped along this way.

And it makes me really grateful for where I am and that I have this platform and position to do it. So I’m still involved in (Tavion’s) life. Unfortunately, he got sick again and will be going through another round of chemotherapy so he won’t be able to make the trip up to Vegas which I was bummed on about but when I fly back to Chicago with the belt, I’m excited to let him hold it.

Q
What do you do differently for recovery and to kind of manage the pain throughout camp and actually fight night because of the auto-immune disease?

M. Lee
Yes, it’s known as ankylosing spondylitis. And yes when I got diagnosed it was after almost two years in and out of hospitals and even the fights that I had some layoffs where things were really tough there was a dark hole in my life and I never dealt with those moments and understand and my immune system just shut down and it really took a long time to really diagnose what was going on. And at the end of the day a lot of it came down to my diet, a lot of it came down to my mindset. I started changing the way I was thinking about things and what I was eating and how I was eating it and even getting off of all the medication that doctors had me on was huge.

There’s still days of pain. I still have to manage it but I’m so far from where I was a few years ago and it’s a beautiful thing. I think ultimately I want to show people that whether it’s doctors, whether it’s anybody, obviously you have to trust what doctors say but at the end of the day I think the human will is the strongest thing and so I think it’s beautiful and I’m grateful that I’m in this position to fight the world title. And doctors told me to my face, I’d never box again and here we are July 20. I get to fight in front of millions of people and win a world title. I’m so grateful and happy. I can’t even imagine how happy I’m going to be the next day with that belt, but regardless it seems like yesterday I was sitting in those hospital beds and so here we are. I’m very excited and grateful.

R. Flores
Mike, final comment, as you prepare for your showdown coming up in a few weeks’ time in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, as you collide against Caleb Plant.

M. Lee
Thank you for everybody’s time. Once again, I’m excited. This is an incredible opportunity and I will make the most of it and I think I’m going to shock a lot of people. I know that this is my moment and as moments get bigger and bigger, I perform better and better. So I’ll see everybody July 20 and thank you again.

R. Flores
Now let’s turn our attention over to the man that Mike Lee is going to be standing across the ring from. First of al,l we’re going to acknowledge when I mention it’s a family affair, it is certainly a family affair with Caleb Plant as well. His father Richie Plant, he’s his co-trainer. His lead trainer is Justin Gamber, who is constantly immersing himself in studying the sport of boxing and learning about the history and working on different methods that will benefit Caleb. Also Larry Wade who is a sensational and a world class strength and conditioning coach.

Eighteen bouts, 18 victories, 10 of those coming by way of knockout. Just 26 years of age, originally from Nashville, Tennessee and now residing and training in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has been undefeated since turning professional back in 2014 and after the world title in January where he knocked down Jose Uzcategui twice in round two on his way to a unanimous decision. I have had the very good fortune of getting to know Caleb Plant for the past several years and what I could tell you about Caleb Plant is that in my opinion he is so focused, so determined and the thing about Caleb Plant is when he says something, he follows through and it becomes a reality.

He knew years ago he was going to be a world champion. The determination on Caleb Plant is second to none. So ladies and gentlemen, without further ado, please welcome the reigning and defending IBF Super Middleweight Champion of the World, Caleb “Sweethands” Plant. Caleb, if you have opening comments then give us an idea of how training camp has been going. You look terrific in videos that we see but your initial thoughts.

C. Plant
I just want to thank all you guys for hopping on this call with us. Really appreciate all the media. This is how people know how we’re doing and what we’re doing and it gets us to the rest of the world so I really appreciate you guys.

I want to thank my whole team and FOX, a beautiful platform that we’ll be performing on July 20. Camp is sensational. It’s literally the best camp I ever had. I’m sure you guys get on the phone with a lot of fighters and they say that. But this camp, I literally became a new monster and that’s exactly what you guys want to see July 20.

Q
Is being on this type of stage going to add any extra motivation to go out and have the best performance of your career?

C. Plant
I know it’s a bigger stage. There’s going to be a lot of eyeballs on me. But I think they chose me for this event because they know I’m the guy who’s not going to let them down. I think they know I’m the man for the job and that I’m going to put on the show July 20. At the end of the day, get in the ring, the bell rings and we fight so I don’t really feel any added pressure just it’s a little more excited to continue to show the world what I’m capable of.

Q
From your perspective have there been any change of mentality approaching a fight being the champion compared to being the challenger?

C. Plant
Absolutely not. If he thinks that I’m not gunning for him and I was gunning for Jose then he’s sadly mistaken. So the mentality has not changed. I don’t feel like I’m the hunted, I still feel like I’m hunting. I’m not satisfied. The goal was not just to become a world champion, that was just one goal. So in my eyes I’m 18 – 0. I’m only 26, I’m just getting started. I’m gunning for him more than I was gunning for Jose.

Q
With winning the IBF title being a goal, is it safe to assume that the goal is to unify the division and win the other World Titles at 168 pounds?

C. Plant
Absolutely. If I’m not mistaken there’s never been an undisputed super middleweight champion so that’s my goal, to become the first undisputed super middleweight champion of the world. But first things first, handle business July 20. I don’t care about any other fight. I don’t care about any other champions or what they’re doing or what they’ve got going on. The only thing I care about is July 20 and I’m focused on is handling business.

Q
Do you feel validated in a way as a fighter? Has your confidence increased, do you feel stronger as a fighter now knowing that you can beat a fighter at that top level?

C. Plant
I think it’d be hard to not be more confident after winning a world title and not just one that was an easy one to knock out of the park. Jose was considered the bogey man of the division, someone nobody wanted to fight. I came in after a year layoff, broke hand, hand surgery, no tune-up fight and I knew I could get the job done. But I don’t feel validated in a sense of what I’ve accomplished. I’m happy but I’m not content, so as I said, I’m gunning for him July 20. I’m focused, I’m zoned in but at the same time I’m definitely even more confident than I was before.

Q
Can you describe how you rate him in terms of other opponents you’ve faced? How would you compare him to some of the fighters that you have fought as you were coming up as a competitor?

C. Plant
I respect everybody as a man but if somebody wants me to respect their fighting skills then they got to make me do that. Just like my past opponents, they’ve respected me as a man but they didn’t think that I’d be able to get the job done and if I wanted them to respect my fighting skills then I had to do it when the bell rang. I’m not looking for validation from him and I’m sure hoping he is not looking for it from me because he is not going to get it unless he can maybe do it in the ring.

So as far as where I ranked with other fighters, I’m pretty sure we all agree that he’s not, he hasn’t accomplished or done some of the things that some of the other guys I fought have, but at the same time, he’s a different fighter himself, he’s a different guy. So as I’ve said before I’m taking him just as serious as I’ve taken any of these other guys. I’ve worked harder this training camp than I have in any other training camp in my entire life and I’m telling you, July 20 when the bell rings, you guys are going to see a difference. You guys are going to see a new Caleb Plant.

Q
Do you feel any added pressure not inside the ring but outside the ring character-wise upholding the responsibility of that title?

C. Plant
I’ve always tried to carry myself as a champion, talk as a champion and train as a champion. I’m not a grown man, I’m a growing man. So I’m going to continue to become better in the ring. I’m going to continue to become a better man outside the ring, but thus far I think I’ve done a good job of handling that responsibility. I think if I just continue to follow what I’ve done, I think I’ll be on the right path.

Q
Do you feel any animosity towards Lee personally or what are some of your perspectives on him as a person?

C. Plant
I think that Mike Lee is not someone who tells the whole truth. I have the inside scoop on a couple of different things and so I don’t know. But I have the same amount of respect for him as anybody else who I step in the ring with, which is none. If you want me to respect your fighting skills, then you’ve got to make me do that. I’m not just going to give you the respect that you want. July 20, when the bell rings, if he wants me to respect anything in his arsenal, then he’s got to make me do that because he’s not getting it.

To me, boxing is life or death. That’s it. So I don’t care about anybody in his village, I don’t care who lives there, I’m coming to burn it down. So unless he’s looking to do the same thing with me, it’s either going to be a long night or a short night.

On July 20 just tune in and something my father has taught me is the truth belongs to everybody and lies belongs to individuals. I’m going to give you the truth July 20.

Q
What were some of the things discussed from the mics between you two when they weren’t able to pick those comments up?

C. Plant
I don’t know. I honestly couldn’t even remember to tell you. I told him to sit down and he sat down so I turned the cameras and stood there with my belt. So but none of that is really important. What’s important is when we let our hands fly so. That’s all I care about.

Q
Listen, does this guy really know what he’s getting into? The reason why I ask this is one, he’s face off – it’s the first guys face in 13 months. Two, he’s dropping down in weight. Three, he’s fighting a World Champion. Does he really know what he’s getting into?

C. Plant
No, he doesn’t but that’s okay. It’s not my job. It’s none of our jobs to tell him otherwise. I’m going to let these hands do the talking on July 20, but no, he’s delusional. He’s never faced anybody like me. He’s never even come close. He just told you guys that he’s not even getting the sparring of anybody who even looks like me. How many people do you think I can spar that fights like Mike Lee? How many people do you think he can spare that look like me? And he answered it for you. I don’t even have to tell you. So no, he has no idea but that’s okay.

He’s going to learn a lesson July 20 one that he can’t be taught. One that can only be taught by me, so. I don’t like him that much. I don’t like anybody who’s in the ring with me. I don’t want to be friends. I don’t care about what they’ve got going on. To me, boxing is life or death so if I don’t win, I don’t get to go home because I won’t have a home.

Q
I don’t think you’ve ever had a pro fight in Nashville, have you? Would you like to do that at some point and bring professional boxing into Nashville, a big-ticket fight?

C. Plant
That’s something that I have not gotten to do yet but that’s something that we’re really looking forward to and we’re close to getting it done. When they approached me with this opportunity to fight here at MGM Grand, we were talking about a couple different spots one of them being Nashville, but I really loved this opportunity and they knew that I was the man for the job to handle it in fashion. But definitely I want to bring a big fight to Nashville at the big city. I think Jeff Lacy and Jermain Taylor, they fought in Nashville. There have been a couple of other big fights in Nashville but I think that I could be the one to make it a regular thing. So first thing is first, we’ll handle business July 20 and we’ll go from there, but that’s something definitely that we’re looking forward to in the future.

Q
Do you still feel that you represent Nashville as a fighter? Is that still an important part of your identity?

C. Plant
Nashville, that’s who I am. I may reside in Las Vegas, but Tennessee, that’s what made me. Ashland City, Nashville — those are the places that made me. I live in Vegas like I said, but Nashville is always home that’s the only important part of me and it always will be.

Q
How therapeutic has it been to go back in the ring and train and prepare yourself for such a big event here coming down here in a couple of weeks?

C. Plant
Boxing has always been like a sanctuary for me. It’s been a place that I could go and be somebody. I’ve said this in other interviews that as a kid I was somebody that nobody would want to be living in a place coming from a place where nobody would want to be in. So when I got to go to the gym, then I got to be somebody that everybody wanted to be. Even at a young age, grown men looking up to me. “Oohing” and “Ahhing” and I kind of got to be a superstar. And once I got back out of those doors I had to go back to being that kid that nobody wanted to be. And so that just kind of became like addicting. it became like an addiction for me to want to be there, want to be in the gym, not go home and just be a gym rat.

Through everything that came and left in my life, through all the things that I’ve lost, through all the things I’ve been deprived of or haven’t had, boxing has always stood by my side and boxing has always been there for me through thick and thin. Boxing is like a woman. If you treat her right and you do good by her, then she’ll stand by you and she’ll do right by you. But she’s a jealous woman as well and the difference between me and my opponent is I haven’t glanced off of her. I haven’t endeavored into other things. I haven’t. Fear not the man who’s thrown 10,000 kicks once but fear the man who’s thrown one kick 10,000 times. So that’s what I’ve done.

Q
What should they be anticipating when they see you in action here against Mike Lee for your championship? What do you want to showcase that new audience of fans who may not be too familiar with what you do or what you bring to the table?

C. Plant
They can expect fireworks. They can expect an entertaining person, an entertaining fighter and Mike Lee won’t make it out the final bell so either he’ll bail out before the final bell or I’ll bail him out myself but, either the way the white flag is coming out. I’ll wave it for him so it’s going to be one or the other.

R. Flores
Do you have any final words as you prepare to get back into training?

C. Plant
Again, I’m encouraging everyone to tune in. It’s going to be a great night of fighting. It’s going to be a spectacular. I’ll be defending my world title in a spectacular fashion, so this is something you guys aren’t going to want to miss, I can promise you.

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ABOUT PLANT VS. LEE
FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes is headlined by undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant making the first defense of his title against unbeaten contender and University of Notre Dame graduate Mike Lee Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT with rising unbeaten heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba squaring off against undefeated 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen.

Following the action on FOX, boxing’s only eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao battles undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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.

CALEB PLANT TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (June 27, 2019) – Undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant discussed his current training camp as he prepares for his first title defense against unbeaten Mike Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

FOX PBC Fight Night coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will precede the PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event that also takes place at MGM Grand and is headlined by eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao facing WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman.

Tickets for the live event, which is presented by TGB Promotions and Sweethands Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 886-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Plant (18-0, 10 KOs) captured his world title on January on FS1 when he dropped Jose Uzcategui twice on his way to a unanimous decision victory. Here is what he said about his first world title defense and more from training camp with trainer Justin Gamber at City Boxing Gym in Las Vegas.

On his recent training camp:

“This has been the best training camp of my career. I’m getting great sparring with guys who are pushing me to be my best. I’m a world champion and I know what needs to be done in camp to stay that way. There is still a lot that the world hasn’t seen when it comes to my boxing skill and ability. On July 20, the world will see more of it. My entire team is doing a great job and my motivation is at an all-time high.”

On his matchup with undefeated foe Mike Lee:

“Mike Lee is coming down in weight and is the bigger man. I know he’s looking to rough me up and use his size against me. On top of that he’s undefeated and looking to stay that way. I’m expecting him to leave everything in the ring, but I’ve said it before and I’m saying it again, Mike Lee is not making it to the final bell. I’m going to knock him out.”

On fighting in the biggest boxing event of the year live on FOX:

“When they presented me with the opportunity to fight on FOX, I immediately said yes. No other network in boxing compares to FOX. This is the biggest stage in the sport and I’m going to put on a masterful performance for all the fans watching. It’s also a great honor to be the lead-in main event to the legend Manny Pacquiao. To all my Latino fans who’ll be watching on FOX Deportes, I want to say Muchas Gracias.”

On fighting for his hometown of Nashville, TN:

“I love putting Nashville on the map in the boxing world. I’m riding with Nashville on my back till the wheels fall off. Like I said after my fight when I won my world title, Nashville stand up!”

# # #

ABOUT PLANT VS. LEE
FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes is headlined by undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant making the first defense of his title against unbeaten contender Mike Lee Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT with rising unbeaten heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba squaring off against undefeated 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen.

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.

MIKE LEE TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

SANTA MONICA, CA. (June 20, 2019) – Unbeaten super middleweight contender Mike Lee shared his thoughts on his upcoming title showdown against super middleweight champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant from his training camp at Gloveworx in Santa Monica, California before he steps into the ring Saturday, July 20 in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

FOX PBC Fight Night action begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and features rising unbeaten heavyweight sensation and 2016 Nigerian Olympian Efe Ajagba squaring off against undefeated 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen.

Tickets for the event, which is presented by TGB Promotions and Sweethands Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Lee is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame where he earned a finance degree from the Mendoza School of Business before embarking on his pro boxing career. Here is what Lee had to say about his training camp, his journey to fighting for the title and more:

MIKE LEE

“I have strong belief in my power. I think to put yourself out there and drive through adversity, it’s going to be more mental than physical and god knows I’ve had my ups and downs especially with my illness and being in and out of hospitals. But I’m here now and I’ve won seven fights since I was diagnosed with my auto-immune disease and I’m here doing what people thought I could not do. Whether it’s the boxing media or doctors, I’m defying the odds, so why should July 20 be any different.

“What’s kept me going through the ups and downs is the love for this sport and the love for moments like this. I always knew this world title shot would come if I kept grinding and grinding and putting in that work when people weren’t watching. Ultimately, I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it on the days that I doubted myself.

“I’ve fought on big stages before. I’ve headlined a card at Notre Dame that had 6,000 people. I’ve headlined Chicago fights too, so this is nothing different. It’s not like I’m some unknown challenger coming in to the spotlight. I thrive in the spotlight and have had some big moments since the beginning of my career. This is just another day in the office.

“I think Caleb Plant is going to see a Mike Lee he’s never seen. He’s going to feel that power. He’s talking about knockouts, but he hasn’t knocked anyone out in his past seven fights. Wait until he feels my power. It’ll only take one and you’ll see the doubt that will plant in his head.

“Notre Dame means so much to me. I worked so hard to get into that school and that school gave back so much to me as well. To be a part of that Notre Dame community and have friends like Golden Tate and Justin Tuck, who won Super Bowl rings, I want to be a part of that. I want to be a part of that championship legacy and continue to keep giving back.

“For me I moved from Houston to Los Angeles because for a couple of years when I got sick, I was back home in Chicago trying to figure out how to become healthier. Ultimately moving to California has been a phenomenal move for me. I loved my team in Houston but I love being by the beach and by the water. California has been an awesome training spot. You’ve got some of the best fighters and athletes in the world that come here. Being immersed in that type of culture has been phenomenal.”

# # #

CALEB PLANT LAS VEGAS MEDIA ROUNDTABLE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (June 17, 2019) – Undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant hosted a Las Vegas media breakfast roundtable Saturday morning as he discussed his upcoming title defense Saturday, July 20 against unbeaten Mike Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba squaring off against undefeated 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen

After FOX PBC Fight Night, boxing’s only eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao takes on undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in a powerhouse 147-pound showdown that headlines a PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Here is what Plant (18-0, 10 KOs), along with his trainer Justin Gamber, had to say Saturday from Hecho En Vegas at MGM Grand about their matchup against Lee (21-0, 11 KOs) and more:

CALEB PLANT

“I’ve been working hard. Sparring is great. My weight is on point and I’ve been eating good. We’re rolling. Last camp I found my groove in probably my third or fourth week. This time it was in my second week. I’m going to be an improved Caleb Plant.

“As I’ve worked more on strength and conditioning with my coach Larry Wade, everyone can see how my power has developed. I’m sitting down on my punches more as well. But there’s no substitute for sharpening your tools in the shed. I’m still working on my craft as much as ever.

“We’ve seen so many big upsets so far this year in boxing, so I have more than enough motivation to focus on the task July 20. I’ve always said that the only fight I worry about, is the one that is signed.

“I already feel like I’m the best out there. Good luck to Mike Lee. I hope he shows up. He’s going to be getting a mattress sponsorship, because July 20 he’s going to sleep. This isn’t going 12 rounds.

“Justin Gamber is underrated and I believe he’s one of the best teachers in boxing. That’s what he is, a teacher. There’s a lot of guys with stopwatches and whistles, but not everyone can teach the art of boxing. Different fighters need different things and Justin knows I don’t need to be screamed at to get going. It’s all positivity and he makes it easy to understand.

“I think I’ve shown that I’m special and I’m different. I can bring things to the table that no one else can. I don’t have to raise my voice for you to know that I mean what I say. You already believe me. I’m going to continue to walk how I walk and talk how I talk.

“Media recognition and stature has changed since winning the title, but who I am and how hard I work, I’m still the same Caleb that I’ve always been. I’ve looked at myself as a world champion from a young age. How else do you become a world champion?

“Jose Uzcategui was everything they were building him up to be. He’s a relentless pressure fighter with power in both hands and I knew it was going to be a tough fight. I don’t think he knew what he was getting himself into, and I tried to warn him.

“We’d love to unify and be undisputed, that’s the goal. For now, we’re just focused on the task at hand. I have my hands full on the big stage July 20. If you look too far down the road, it can mess up the immediate future. I am really focused on getting past this challenge.”

JUSTIN GAMBER, Plant’s Trainer

“Caleb has been the ultimate student. I couldn’t ask for someone better. When I think of Caleb as an amateur, I think of just an athletic guy. Since he turned pro he’s really developed his skill set and fine-tuned his technique. He’s a guy who now has that athletic ability combined with skill and high boxing IQ.

“Caleb amazes me every day with how he tries different things and how he can break it down, fine tune it and perfect it. We’re just making sure that he can use his skills at the right time in the fight.

“The super middleweight division is in one of its hottest eras and I think Caleb Plant is head and shoulders above the rest. When I think of a possible future fight with Caleb against David Benavidez, I think of Floyd Mayweather vs. Diego Corrales. The offensive-minded big man against the smaller, better boxer. I see Caleb doing a similar job one day.”

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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.

Rising Heavyweight Sensation Efe Ajagba Battles Unbeaten 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen Saturday, July 20 in FOX PBC Fight Night Action & on FOX Deportes Co-Feature to Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant Defending His Title From the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

LAS VEGAS (June 3, 2019) – Rising unbeaten heavyweight sensation and 2016 Nigerian Olympian Efe Ajagba will square off against undefeated 2016 Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in FOX PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The 10-round heavyweight attraction will feature two 2016 Olympians putting their unbeaten records on the line as they look to make a statement in the red-hot division. FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and is headlined by undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant making the first defense of his title against unbeaten contender Mike Lee.

FOX PBC Fight Night will precede the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT that also takes place at MGM Grand featuring eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao facing WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman in the main event.

“Saturday, July 20th is the biggest night of boxing I can remember,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “The entire card top to bottom is toe-to-toe action with evenly matched fights featuring the most entertaining fighters in the world displaying their talent. I am sure several of the fights that night will be immediate Fight of the Year candidates. It is only fitting that the most talked about young heavyweight, Efe Ajagba, will be part of this Boxing-Extravaganza. Efe is simply put the definition of must-see TV. His opponent, Ali Demirezen, is undefeated in 11 fights with 10 of them by knockout. It will be two undefeated big punchers putting it all on the line, that is PBC boxing at its best!”

Ughelli, Nigeria’s Ajagba (10-0, 9 KOs) gained notoriety last August 24 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. The 24-year-old won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified live on FS1. Ajagba, who lives in Stafford, Texas and trains with Ronnie Shields, has steadily increased his competition in his two fights this year, stopping Amir Mansour on FOX in March in two rounds, before disposing of Michael Wallisch in April in two rounds as well.

“My goal is clear: I want to be heavyweight champion of the world,” said Ajagba. “To get there I must continue to take on anyone and for the third time in my career it is another undefeated heavyweight. As they say ‘somebody’s o must go,’ and it won’t be mine. There’s no better platform for this performance than on the biggest boxing night of the year. The stage is set…don’t blink!”

Unbeaten since turning pro after the 2016 Olympics, Demirezen (11-0, 10 KOs) has fought out of Hamburg, Germany in the professional ranks and will make his U.S. debut on July 20. The 29-year-old most recently defended his European heavyweight title against Adnan Redzovic in April, winning by disqualification and matching Ajagba with a perfect knockout rate minus one DQ.

“I’m very happy to make my U.S. debut versus a really good fighter like Efe Ajagba,” said Demirezen. “I’m very focused on that fight and being in the best shape ever to make a statement. I plan to have a great performance in Las Vegas because I know the U.S. boxing fans like real fighters. I’m sure they will love me after the fight.”

# # #

MANNY PACQUIAO VS. KEITH THURMAN & CALEB PLANT VS. MIKE LEE LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (May 22, 2019) – Eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao and unbeaten welterweight world champion Keith Thurman, plus unbeaten super middleweight champion Caleb Plant and unbeaten Mike Lee,squared-off for the second day in a row Wednesday, this time at a Los Angeles press conference as they previewed their respective showdowns taking place Saturday July 20 presented by Premier Boxing Champions and FOX Sports from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao and Thurman will battle in a welterweight world title attraction that headlines a PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Plant will make the first defense of his title against the unbeaten Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes preceding the Pay-Per-View and beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office. Plant vs. Lee is presented by TGB Promotions and Sweethands Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“It’s easy for my opponents to talk before the fight, and I’m used to everything they say. But when we get to the ring, it changes, and it will change on July 20.

“I chose Keith Thurman because he’s a great fighter, he’s undefeated and because we can give a good fight to the fans. I want to make the fans happy on that night and show that I can still go toe-to-toe with any opponent.

“He said he’s young, but we’ll see who looks young in the ring on July 20. I’m going to let my fists say everything for me.

“We will work hard in training camp like always for this fight. We’re not going to take Keith Thurman lightly or underestimate him. He’s a world champion. I’m thankful for what he’s been saying, because it’s giving me motivation to prove that at 40-years-old, I feel 29.

“Keith Thurman is aggressive and throws a lot of punches. I’m hoping on July 20 he will follow through with what he says and fight toe-to-toe with me.

“The fans need to watch this fight because it’s a once in a lifetime fight. It’s going to be a Fight of the Year and full of action from start to finish. I’m ready to get it on July 20.

“Most of my opponents are bigger than me and I beat them all. When we get into the ring, it doesn’t matter. This has happened before and it will happen again against Thurman.

“My experience will be very important for this fight. It’s going to be useful against an undefeated fighter. I’m going to give him the experience of losing for the first time.

“I’m still having fun and enjoying the sport. I’m excited to go straight to the gym after this and start focusing on training for the fight.”

KEITH THURMAN

“It’s a blessing to be on this stage and have a fight of this magnitude. I’m an all-American fighter, an all-American champion and come July 20, I’m going to stay champion.

“Manny is a world class fighter. He’s a gentleman inside and outside of the ring. I look forward to trading punches with a living legend. But one thing’s for sure, he’s not walking away with my title.

“All Manny does is hop around in the ring. I’m not going to lose to a bunny rabbit. He’s not Tupac, but he does a little hip hop and he’s not going to stop until he gets dropped.

“Manny is a world class fighter, not a world class boxer. I’m going to trip him up in the ring and he won’t know what direction to turn to. I know who I am as a fighter, and it will be proven come July 20.

“I’m destroying the legend of Manny Pacquiao. His legacy ends on July 20 and mine begins. He’s an inspiration to many people throughout the world and everyone respects him, but I’m respectfully going to finish him.

“This is a big fight as far as the stage goes, but it’s a big fight against a little guy. He’s a veteran and I’ve dismantled veterans in the past. I believe I would have destroyed Manny Pacquiao five years ago. I’ve always been ready for this fight. He’s never fought someone like me with this kind of lateral movement, speed and power. I’m coming for him.

“I was in the gym four weeks ago starting some preparations. I wanted to get the ball rolling and use the momentum from my last training camp for this opportunity. Who better to showcase my skills and talent against than Manny Pacquiao? He chose me because it will be a guaranteed action fight.

“I think this is one of the best Manny Pacquiao fights in a long time. I’m going to bring it. Pacquiao did not get reminded in his last fight what it feels like to be up against a real champion. I’m the youngest, fastest, hungriest fighter that he’s ever been in the ring with. July 20, it’s the ‘Keith Thurman show’.”

CALEB PLANT

“I never consider myself the A-side because my history says that I shouldn’t even be here. As beautiful as the belt is, it’s about more to me than that. It’s about legacy for me. I’ve been carrying myself as a world champion since the day I started this journey, so this is nothing new to me.

“I’m the whole package. I have speed, I have footwork, I have power, I have the heart and the will to win. Until you find someone else who’s all that, I’m going to keep having my hand raised.

“Where I’m from, there’s confrontation every day. This is nothing new to me. There are times I was told that I wouldn’t make it. Nobody paved the way for me like I’m from New York or Los Angeles. I paved my own way.

“Mike Lee is in uncharted territory. I’m curious on how he plans on beating me. Does he plan on roughing me up and trying to knock me out like my last opponent? Can he do that better than Jose Uzcategui? Is he going to try to outbox me with his hand and foot speed? Because there’s no person from 160 to 175 who could do that.

“I’ve been committed to the same thing for the last 18 years straight. Rain, sleet or snow, I stayed committed. I’m bred for this. I was created for this. It’s the only thing I’ve done my whole life. On July 20, I’ll be keeping the thing that I’ve worked my whole entire life for.

“At every decision that has to be made, you can go left or you can go right. From the genesis of my being, every time it was the moment to make a tough decision, I went the same way. Because I do not bend or fold for anything. No matter what’s tossed my way, this journey must go on for me. He said he has nothing to lose, but I have everything to lose.

“All the motivational videos that he watches and books that he reads, I’m the very essence and meaning of that. I’m the pinnacle of all those things he’s studied. You can’t learn mental fortitude in a book. Those things are earned, they’re not learned.”

MIKE LEE

“This is a dream come true for me. I’ve been through so much and there were days where I thought my dream was over. I’ve chased this since I was eight-years-old and I’m thankful for this chance to go after a dream that others thought I couldn’t reach.

“The beauty of this sport is that it’s only me and Caleb in there. Everyone else can only talk. I’ve been in the ring through adversity and stuck it out, because that’s the kind of person I am. I know that if I come on July 20 as the best Mike Lee possible, that I can win.

“I’ve been in the gym working every day. Doctors told me at one point that I wouldn’t fight again, but I’m still standing right here. I pushed through my pain to get here.

“I’m excited to be here in Los Angles, where we hold training camp. I’m bringing the belt back to Chicago, but Los Angeles is a second home to me.

“Today is the culmination of years of sacrifice, hard work and discipline. I’m undefeated for a reason but I feel people underestimate me and I like that. I’ve been underestimated my whole career. I’ve thrived off people say I couldn’t do it.

“I respect Caleb Plant. He’s the champion for a reason and I respect any fighter who can step into that ring. You have to be a different kind of animal to do that in front of all those people, and I am that animal.

“I’m coming with power, strength, speed and I’m going to give it everything I have. I’m going to become the new IBF Super Middleweight World Champion.”

RICHARD STURM, President of Las Vegas Live Entertainment & Sports

“I’d like to welcome back Manny Pacquiao and Keith Thurman, two of the world’s best fighters, back to Las Vegas and MGM Grand. Manny returns to the ring at MGM Grand following his convincing win in January while Keith will fight in Las Vegas for the first time in four years, looking to remain undefeated.

“We’re truly excited to be hosting this sensational event at MGM Grand and we look forward to seeing everybody in July.”

BILL WANGER, Executive Vice President of Programming, Research & Content Strategy for FOX Sports

“Manny Pacquiao vs. Keith Thurman is a living legend, versus a legend in the making. We’re excited to deliver an unprecedented night of boxing on July 20 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“Manny is one of boxing’s biggest stars. Keith Thurman is an undefeated world champion and a huge ratings draw. We’re excited to bring viewers inside the ropes and up close to the action on fight night, and produce extensive behind the scenes preview programming that will air across the FOX networks.

“FOX Sports is thrilled to have a battle on July 20 with such a compelling storyline to kick off a great night of championship boxing with the IBF champion Caleb Plant against the undefeated Mike Lee.

“In January, Caleb Plant headlined the most-watched boxing event ever on FS1. Now he’s fighting on the FOX network for the first time as the main event. At FOX Sports, big events that capture America’s attention are in our DNA. This fight certainly fits that bill.

“Our goal with the PBC deal is to build these fighters into household names, and we’re well on our way. We expect a great show on July 20 in Las Vegas.”

# # #

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

MANNY PACQUIAO VS. KEITH THURMAN & CALEB PLANT VS. MIKE LEE NEW YORK PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

NEW YORK (May 21, 2019) – Eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao and unbeaten welterweight world champion Keith Thurman, plus unbeaten super middleweight champion Caleb Plant and unbeaten Mike Lee went face-to-face Tuesday in New York at a press conference to preview their respective showdowns on Saturday July 20 and presented by Premier Boxing Champions and FOX Sports from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao and Thurman will square-off in a welterweight world title attraction that headlines a PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Plant will make the first defense of his title against the unbeaten Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes preceding the Pay-Per-View and beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from Gotham Hall in New York City:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I’ve never been scared of a challenge. I’m so excited for this fight against an undefeated champion. He’s the kind of fighter that you can’t underestimate. His record and successe gives me more motivation to work hard.

“I will make sure that I’m 100 percent and ready for this fight. We’ll find out what happens on July 20, but it’s going to be exciting. I like being the underdog for this fight because that gives me more focus in training.

“I’ve been careless and over confident in some fights, but this time around it’s different. Keith Thurman is a good fighter and we’re going to make sure the fans are happy on July 20.

“It’s a great honor for me to be fighting back in Las Vegas and on the FOX Sports pay-per-view. I’m going to take advantage of the opportunity.

“I chose Keith Thurman because he’s undefeated and I want to prove that at age 40 I can still beat a great fighter like Keith.

“My time is not yet over. My journey is continuing. I’m going to prove that and more on July 20 against Keith Thurman.

“I’m the kind of fighter that I don’t talk too much. I do my talking in the ring. I can do a lot of things in that ring. He can prove his words in the ring. I’m going to be a warrior on July 20 and show Keith Thurman what it’s like to be in the ring with me.

“I will work hard for this fight. I haven’t felt this motivated and excited since the Oscar De La Hoya fight. I feel like I’m back against the best fighters in the world.

“Our focus in every fight is on the speed and footwork, because those are advantages for me. We’re going to work on avoiding Keith’s offense.

“Fans should watch this fight because it’s a once in a lifetime showdown. We’re going to bring action and I’m confident I will be victorious.”

KEITH THURMAN

“We’re ready. This is a blessing to be here and a dream come true. I started boxing at the age of seven. I worked hard to be a champion and I’ve always wanted to fight the greatest names in the sport.

“Pacquiao wants a challenge and I’m very grateful to be sharing a ring with a legend. If you understand boxing history, you know that times change. I believe boxing is in a new era. Come July 20, Pacquiao will disappear. He’ll always be remembered in the sport, but I’m doing to Manny Pacquiao, what he did to Oscar De La Hoya.

“This is a big fight. I’ve waited 22 months to get back in the game. We had our ups and downs, but Keith Thurman is back on the rise. I’m going to make a big statement.

“This training camp is going to start this Saturday. Once I get home, it’s grind time and on July 20, it’s going to be my time.

“July 20 is 23 years in the making. I’ve dedicated myself to this beautiful sport of boxing for so long and my first trainer Ben Getty told me that I had what it takes to be a great champion. I’m truly looking forward to having another chance to show it.

“We definitely had a stretch with a lack of activity. Not everyone knows who Keith Thurman is today. You could see that I wasn’t at my best in January. But on July 20, ‘One Time’ is back. I’m getting ready to have one of my best training camps for this fight.

“I had the knockdown in my last fight that was a reminder of what ‘One Time’ is all about. We brushed the dust off and we’re taking that momentum into this fight.

“I’m excited to be the guy who shows Manny Pacquiao where the exit is. He’s a legend who’s done great things. But I’ve never lost to a fighter who’s lost seven times. I have no intention of losing this fight and I don’t see him winning in any shape or form.

“Speed, power and overall ring IQ will be the difference. I’m one of the smartest fighters in the sport. I always find a way to win. I know Pacquiao comes in shape, but he’s going to fall short of that finish line.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’ve been boxing my whole life. They say it takes 10,000 hours of work to become a true success at something. Come July 20, I’ll have been doing this for 18-years straight. No breaks and no Plan B. I’ve just been boxing, day in and day out.

“Mike Lee may have a financial degree, but in boxing, I have a Ph.D. That’s something he doesn’t know anything about. I came from very rock bottom, where nobody makes it out. If he thinks I’m going to let him mess this up for me, he’s not half as educated as I thought he was.

“I have everything to lose. Every night from now until July 20, I hope Lee and his team are envisioning the worlds ‘and still’. Because that’s all anyone is going to hear on fight night.

“It’s exciting to be on this primetime card. Everyone who wants to take it to the top of the sport wants to be a main event at MGM Grand. At the same time, where we fight is not most important to me. We can fight in the parking lot, because it’s about legacy to me.

“Anytime that someone steps into the ring and wins their first world title in fashion, it’s going to be a confidence booster. But I did tell everyone what was going to happen. There’s a season for everything and right now is mine.

“He may come into the ring bigger and heavier than me, but boxing skills are what wins fights. Years of repetition with boxing teachers, are what wins fights. You’ll see all of that on July 20.

“I don’t look at myself as the favorite in any fight. I’m the one who’s not supposed to be here. Put everyone through what I’ve been through, and see if they would make it here.”

MIKE LEE

“This has been a culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Most importantly, I’ve gotten somewhere no one thought I would get. I’m fine being the underdog. I have nothing to lose.

“I’m coming out with everything I have. This is everything I’ve ever wanted. I respect Caleb Plant, but on July 20, I plan on making it my moment.

“I’ve headlined cards in Chicago and at Notre Dame before so the bright lights are nothing new to me. I’m very excited and working hard. On July 20, I’m going to keep proving people wrong.

“The whole reason I got into this sport is to do it on big stages. Everyone wants to prove it on the biggest stage possible and there’s no bigger stage than at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. It’s a dream come true and it’s the reason I’ve worked so hard.

“Moving down in weight is an advantage. I’ve got a great team working with me to make the weight easily and rehydrate the right way. I’m going to be the bigger and stronger guy in the ring.

“I’ve had people that never thought I’d get here and I love it. It takes a different kind of person to step into that ring in front of so many people. You have to be ready to go out there and risk it all. I fight who they put in front of me and keep winning. That’s what I plan to do on July 20.”

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

EIGHT-DIVISION CHAMPION MANNY PACQUIAO MEETS UNBEATEN CHAMPION KEITH THURMAN IN WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CLASH LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW

Jan 18,2019 – Las Vegas ,Nevada – MGM Grand
photo credit : Chris Farina – Mayweather Promotions

LAS VEGAS (May 21, 2019) – Boxing’s only eight-division world champion, Philippine Senator and regular WBA welterweight champion Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao returns to face undefeated Super WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman in a powerhouse 147-pound showdown live on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, July 20 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Preceding the pay-per-view is a FOX PBC Fight Night also taking place at MGM Grand that is headlined by undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant making his first title defense against unbeaten contender Mike Lee.

Possessing speed, power and tremendous boxing skills, Thurman represents the most dangerous challenger that the future Hall of Famer Pacquiao has faced in his recent ring appearances. This high-stakes match will firmly give the winner a claim for the top spot in one of boxing’s deepest and most talented divisions.

“Senator Pacquiao is thrilled to be back in ‘Viva Las Vegas,’ fighting at the best venue for boxing — the MGM Grand Garden Arena. This is where the Pacquiao vs. Thurman world welterweight championship belongs,” said Sean Gibbons, President of MP Promotions. “We’re excited to be working with our partners at PBC, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions. Manny is fighting in the biggest fights on a global scale and it doesn’t get any more global than FOX Sports Pay-Per-View. Fans have always enjoyed watching Pacquiao and Thurman compete in the ring and we are confident they will, once again, give boxing fans worldwide everything they’re expecting, and more. God bless Manny and Keith for stepping up to give us this fight!”

“We’re looking forward to working with our partners in bringing yet another blockbuster back home to MGM Grand here in Las Vegas,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “This fight is a tremendous opportunity for both guys in terms of where they are in their respective careers. Pacquiao is currently the biggest name in the sport and Thurman is a young skilled undefeated fighter in the prime of his career, making for a compelling matchup. I know both fighters will be ready for the challenge that lies ahead of them come July 20, and I can’t wait to see this one go off.”

“This will be a sensational matchup between two great fighters and we’re looking forward to hosting this championship event at MGM Grand in July,” said Richard Sturm, President of Las Vegas Live Entertainment and Sports. “Fans have always enjoyed watching Pacquiao and Thurman compete in the ring and we are confident they will, once again, give boxing fans worldwide everything they’re expecting, and more.”

“FOX Sports is thrilled to present our second Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View featuring one of boxing’s biggest stars, Pacquiao, facing the champion Thurman, who wowed nearly three-million viewers live on FOX in January with his latest title defense,” said Bill Wanger, FOX Sports EVP, Programming, Live Operations and Research. “This promises to be a can’t miss night of boxing with an unprecedented FOX Sports PBC doubleheader, as we open the evening with the FOX PBC Fight Night, headlined by newly crowned champion Plant defending his title against the undefeated Lee. Plant set the FS1 viewership record for a boxing show in January when he won his title, and we’re sure this match up will deliver even bigger audiences leading into the Pacquiao vs. Thurman Pay-Per-View.”

A three-time Fighter of the Year and the Boxing Writers Association of America’s reigning Fighter of the Decade, Pacquiao (60-7-2, 39 KOs), who hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines, is the only sitting Congressman and Senator to win a world title. After serving two terms as Congressman, Pacquiao was elected to a Philippine Senate seat in May 2016, capturing over 16 million votes nationally. Pacquiao’s boxing resume features victories over at least seven current and future Hall of Famers, including Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Miguel Cotto, Shane Mosley and Juan Manuel Marquez.

In his last match on January 19, Pacquiao put on a vintage performance against four-division champion Adrien Broner, scoring a 12-round unanimous decision in the 70th match of his illustrious career. It was his first time fighting in the U.S. in two years. Before that, he scored an impressive knockout over Lucas Matthysse to win his version of the WBA welterweight championship in Malaysia last July 15.

“All my life I have confronted challenges — in life, in politics, and inside the ring,” said Pacquiao. “Keith Thurman is the type of challenge I crave as a fighter. He is the biggest and best test. That is why I want to fight him. We are going to give boxing fans an exciting fight and a great night.”

The 30-year-old Thurman (29-0, 22 KOs) is the longest reigning welterweight champion in boxing, having collected his WBA title with a stoppage victory over Diego Chaves in 2013. He has successfully defended that title eight times and became a unified welterweight champion when he defeated Danny Garcia by split decision to win the WBC title. Plagued by a litany of injuries, including bone chips in his right elbow that had to be surgically removed, Thurman was out of action for nearly two years before getting back into the ring with a hard fought victory against Josesito Lopez in January on FOX.

Having taken up the sport when he was in grade school, the Clearwater, Florida native blossomed under the tutelage of his first trainer, Ben Getty, to become an outstanding amateur. Though Getty has passed away, Thurman still carries those boxing and life lessons with him whenever he steps into the ring with his current longtime trainer Dan Birmingham. His power punching earned him the nickname “One Time.”

“I’m extremely excited for this opportunity to get a fight that I’ve wanted for a long time,” said Thurman. “The right circumstances have aligned for it to happen now and I’m grateful for that. Me and my team are looking forward to it. It’s going to be an honor to be in the ring with Manny Pacquiao. It’s going to be fun to go back to MGM Grand in my first pay-per-view with FOX Sports. I believe that Ben Getty would be very proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish. He said I’d be able to dominate the welterweight division and be a multi-million-dollar fighter and a star in the sport.

“Manny Pacquiao is beatable. He’s been beaten before in his career. He’s a fan favorite and a legend. For me his boxing tactics are predictable. He fights in spurts and you have to take advantage of that. You have to be respectful of his power. But I believe my movement, athleticism and ring knowledge will be able to present him something he’s not seen in all his years of boxing.”

Click HERE for Fighter Bios

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

UNDEFEATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION CALEB PLANT MAKES FIRST TITLE DEFENSE IN PRIMETIME SHOWDOWN AGAINST UNBEATEN MIKE LEE

LAS VEGAS (May 21, 2019) – Undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant will make the first defense of his title against unbeaten contender Mike Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will precede the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event that also takes place at MGM Grand and is headlined by eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao facing WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman.

“Caleb Plant put the boxing world on notice with his exciting title-winning performance in January and will look to build on that showing against an unbeaten contender in Mike Lee on July 20,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “His first defense of the title will put Plant in primetime on FOX and FOX Deportes in Las Vegas and building up to the Pacquiao vs. Thurman pay-per-view event. With two undefeated fighters going toe-to-toe in this first main event of the evening, fans are in for a memorable night of action.”

Plant vs. Lee will see two hungry unbeaten fighters square off, as Plant looks to defend his title and cement himself as the class of the 168-pound ranks, while Lee will look to join the super middleweight elite as a world champion for the first time.

To win the title, Plant (18-0, 10 KOs) turned the tables on the hard-hitting Venezuelan slugger Jose Uzcategui in their IBF championship fight in January on FS1. Going into the match the consensus was that Uzcategui was the harder puncher and that Plant would have to withstand his power to walk away with the belt. It was the 26-year-old Plant, however, who stunned Uzcategui by dropping him to the canvas twice on the way to a convincing unanimous decision. It was an emotional night for Plant, who is from Ashland City, Tenn. and now lives in Las Vegas. He had dedicated his career-best victory to the memory of his late daughter Alia, who suffered from a rare disorder that caused seizures.

“I’m more than ready to return to the ring on July 20 as the main event on FOX at MGM Grand in Las Vegas,” said Plant. “I’ll be defending my IBF world title in tremendous fashion and this is one fight you guys will not want to miss. I’m taking this fight just as seriously as my last opponent.

“This guy is undefeated and looking to stay that way, but unfortunately for him, he took on the wrong challenge against the wrong guy. Come July 20, he’ll realize he’s in deeper water than he’s ever been in. My last fight was for Alia, but this fight I’m dedicating to my beautiful mother Beth Ann. May you Rest in Peace, Love you Momma.”

The 31-year-old Lee (21-0, 11 KOs) graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in business, but decided to pursue his boxing dreams rather than take a job on Wall Street. A native of Wheaton, Illinois who now lives in Chicago, Lee has made a steady climb up the ladder and has been campaigning at light heavyweight. He will be moving down to super middleweight to challenge for his first world championship. Lee is coming off an impressive unanimous decision victory over Jose Hernandez on last June 8.

“I’ve have dreamt of the opportunity to fight for a world title for years,” said Lee. “All the years of hard work, pain and sacrifice have led me to this moment. On July 20 I will be victorious and prove everyone wrong that didn’t believe I was good enough to even get here.

“When I spent almost two years in and out of hospitals battling an autoimmune disease there were moments I never thought I could get back to this level and there were doctors who told me my fighting days were done. But I have won every fight since and I plan to prove that anything is possible if you want it bad enough. I could not have done this without my Dad, my advisor Mike Borao and my trainers Jamal Abdullah and Julian Chua.”

Click HERE for fighter bios

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PACQUIAO – THURMAN IS ON!!

In the biggest night of boxing this year, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, Senator Manny “Pac Man’’ Pacquaio, will take on undefeated WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman on Saturday, July 20 in a blockbuster showdown that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event.

Adding to the excitement of the evening, PBC will present 2-hours of boxing action with undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant making his first title defense against unbeaten contender Mike Lee in the main event of PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes show taking place in the same ring where Pacquiao and Thurman will later battle for welterweight supremacy.

Further details will be announced soon.

Caleb Plant Honored in Hometown of Ashland City, Tennessee & Receives Key to The City

ASHLAND CITY, TN (January 31, 2019) – Hometown star and newly crowned IBF Super Middleweight Champion, Caleb “Sweethands” Plant, received a hero’s welcome back in his hometown of Ashland City, TN on Thursday. Caleb received the “Key to the City”, and multiple proclamations from Mayor of Cheatham County Kerry McCarver, Mayor of Ashland City Steve Allen, and State Senator Kerry Roberts and State Representative Mary Littleton of the Tennessee General Assembly.

At the event, January 31, 2019 was officially named “Caleb ‘Sweethands’ Plant Day”. In addition, Caleb’s dad, Richie Plant, also received a proclamation for his hard work, sacrifices, and dedication to bringing boxing to the community of Ashland City.

“It was a great feeling to be honored by my hometown where it all started,” said Caleb Plant. “Watching my father get a proclamation for his hard work as well was incredible. Seeing all the fans and media show up was unbelievable. It was a great day filled with a lot of uplifting emotions and I’m grateful for the love and support my city showed me today. I’m hoping to bring a big fight out here soon. January 31, 2019 will forever be Caleb ‘Sweethands’ Plant Day!”

“It was such a pleasure to give the community an opportunity to meet and congratulate the champion in person,” said Mayor Kerry McCarver. “Caleb makes us all proud in his drive to the top of the boxing world. Cheatham County got to declare Caleb ‘Sweethands’ Plant Day to truly let him know how special he is to all of us in Cheatham County.”

“Today, Caleb Plant proved he’s not only a world champion in the ring, but a world champion in life,” said State Senator Kerry Roberts. “His words of inspiration to his hometown prove that he’s a man who worked hard to keep the promise to his precious daughter. He’s a great example to all and worthy of honor and respect.”

“In meeting Caleb, I have never been more impressed by a young man than I was with him,” said Mayor Steve Allen, Town of Ashland City. “He is truly more than a world champion boxer, he is a champion of life and no one in this world deserves more than Caleb. I hope I can always call Caleb and his family my friends because that would be an honor for me!”

Plant decisions Uzcategui; Wins Super Middleweight title

Caleb Plant won the IBF Super Middleweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jose Uzcategui in Los Angeles.

In round two, Plant dropped Uzcategui with a left hook. Two rounds later, it was a similar punch that put Uzcategui down for a 2nd time. The fight was grueling and plant showed the war scars as he was cut around his right eye in round six.

Plant, 166.8 lbs of Nashville, TN won by scores of 116-110 twice and 115-111 and is now 18-0. Uzcategui, 165.2 lbs of El Vigia, VEN is 28-3.

Joey Spencer remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Brandon Harder in a scheduled four-round super welterweight bout,

In round one, Spencer dropped Harder with a straight right to the head. In round two, it was another right that sent Harder down again. Moments later, Harder went down again, and the bout was stopped.

Spencer, 155.8 lbs of Linden, MI is 6-0 with six knockouts. Harder, 153 lbs of Southaven, MS is 2-2.

Brandon Figueroa stopped Moises Flores in round three of a their scheduled 12-round super bantamweight bout.

Figueroa dropped Flores with a huge left hook, and finished him off later in round three with a barrage of punches that sent Flores down for a 2nd time, and the bout was stopped at 1:35.

Figueroa, 121.4 lbs of Welasco, TX is 18-0 with 13 knockouts. Flores, 121 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 25-2.

Former world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux stopped Giovanni Delgado in the 1st round of their scheduled 10 round super bantamweight bout.

Rigondeaux dropped Delgado at the end of the 1st round with a hard overhand left for the 10 count. The time of the finish was 3:00.

Rigondeaux, 122.2 lbs of Santiago, CUB is 18-1 with 12 knockouts. Delgado, 128.6 lbs of Tacubuyla, MEX is 16-9.

Lindolfo Delgado stopped Sergio Lopez in round three of a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout.

Delgado dropped Lopez with a left to the body for the 10-count at 2:48.

Delgado, 140.4 lbs of Linares, MX is 8-0 with eight knockouts. Lopez, 137.2 lbs of West Covina, CA is 22-13-1.

Ahmed Elbiali stopped faded Allan Green in round three of their scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Elbiali dropped Green with a right-left combination on the ropes. In round two, Elbiali dropped Green with a big left hook. In round three, Elbiali dropped Green with hard right hand, and the bout was stopped at 1:16.

Elbiali, 175 lbs of Cairo, EGY is now 18-1 with 15 knockouts. Green, 178.6 lbs of Tulsa, OK is 33-6.

JOSE UZCATEGUI vs. CALEB PLANT FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (January 11, 2019) – Just two days before their long-anticipated clash, IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui and unbeaten top contender Caleb Plant went face-to-face at the final press conference before they headline Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes action Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Also in attendance Friday and competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa and former title challenger Moises Flores, who meet in a 12-round super bantamweight clash, and sensational prospect Joey Spencer, who enters the ring against Brandon Harder in a four-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

The night of fights will also include PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT and featuring the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Friday from the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in Los Angeles:

JOSE UZCATEGUI

“I’m looking forward to this fight a lot and I’m really excited for Sunday. I can’t wait to show off my talent against a great fighter like Caleb Plant. You can say whatever you want outside of the ring, but we still have to get inside of the ring, and that’s when I do my best talking.

“My motivation is my family. I get up every morning to train and I’m away from my family, which is difficult. But on Sunday I can show that all the hard work paid off and I am the best.

“This is a big fight for me to continue to prove that I’m the best super middleweight in the world. I want all the other champions, but I know that I have a tough fighter to get through first. Caleb Plant will be a good test on my way to what I want to accomplish.

“I’m going to give a great fight for all of my fans in Mexico and the U.S. and everyone watching. They’re going to have a great show on Sunday night.”

CALEB PLANT

“For those who know me and know my story, they know I’ve been through things that break people. I’ve taken many defeats throughout my life, but never once have I been defeated. I always come out the other side. Sunday, January 13, I’m going to come out the other side with that belt.

“Everyone considers Uzcategui the bogeyman of the division, but I’m ready for him. I hope he’s ready. I’m going to take his belt and his spot in the division.

“This is a lifelong dream of mine. Fighting for the world title means everything, but it’s also just the first step. We’ve been in the studio cooking up something hot and the drop date is January 13.

“I think with our styles, this has the makings of a great, memorable fight. Everyone knows I have the skills and speed to hear ‘and the new’ on Sunday night.

“We were supposed to fight in August. I broke my hand in July and we had to move it back, but this fight has been set since June. Even when he fought in September and he said he had a down performance because he was ‘trying to trick’ someone into fighting him, I was waiting for this fight and I hope he’s not taking me as an easy task. Because he has another thing coming.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“This is going to be a tough fight. Moises Flores only has one loss and I know he’s training hard to bounce back. But I’m going to be ready for anything he brings.

“I’m 110 percent focused and ready for this moment. I’m back and ready to work this Sunday. I hope everyone comes out and supports all the hard work these fighters have put in for this show.

“Flores comes prepared. He’s been fighting tough contenders, but I’ve seen the fights he’s had and I don’t think people have really hit him to the body. My game plan is to break him down and try to catch him and knock him out if I can.

“My father has been the backbone of my career and him, along with the rest of my family and supporters in Mexico and all over the world, have helped me get to this moment. I’m close to reaching my goal and I know that means I have to win this fight on Sunday.”

MOISES FLORES

“I know that I’m facing a tough undefeated opponent, but I’ve fought the tougher competition and experienced more difficult fights. That’s going to help me in the ring on Sunday.

“I was derailed in my last fight, but I’ve made the proper corrections and I’m back and ready now. I’m 100 percent now and I’m going to show everyone who Moises Flores is.

“I’d like to thank my team, my family and even my dog and my cat. I’m happy to be back in the ring so I can show everyone what I have in me.”

JOEY SPENCER

“I’m thankful to everyone for coming out and supporting this event. I couldn’t be happier with how my career is going at this point. I’m looking forward to putting on a show on Sunday and turning everyone who hasn’t seen me into a believer.

“This year I’m looking to have even more of a breakout year than last year. I really want to get ready to enter that contender space and get ready to start looking at some titles.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a lot of good shows this year and performing for the fans. I’m excited to get it all started on Sunday night on FS1.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is going to be a sensational show on Sunday night at the Microsoft Theater. PBC and FOX Sports got off to a great start last month in Brooklyn kicking off the new PBC on FOX series and we’re excited to be here to launch the first FS1 show on Sunday night.

“PBC has made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and biggest fights to Southern California. It started off in December with the Wilder vs. Fury fight, continues on Sunday with this great fight and continues in February with Gervonta Davis vs. Abner Mares and Leo Santa Cruz vs. Miguel Flores cards.

“We believe that downtown Los Angeles can be a major hub for the sport of boxing. Come out and support this show on Sunday and get started on a terrific year.”

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ABOUT PBC ON FS1 & FOX DEPORTES: UZCATEGUI VS. PLANT
Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes is headlined by IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui taking on unbeaten Caleb Plant in the main event. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa battling Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.

That show is preceded by PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT that will see the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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 and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Jose Uzcategui, Caleb Plant & More Share New Year’s Resolutions Ahead of First Premier Boxing Champions Event of 2019 this Sunday, January 13

LOS ANGELES (January 8, 2019) – Fighters competing on Sunday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes event shared their New Year’s resolutions for both inside and outside of the ring before they kick the year off on January 13 live from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui defending his title against unbeaten contender Caleb Plant. Both men recognized the importance of this fight for achieving what they hope for in 2019 and beyond.

“I’m 100 percent focused on Caleb Plant, but my New Year’s resolution is to unify the 168-pound division,” said Uzcategui. “When I’m not working on that goal, I just want to spend as much time with my family as possible.”

“My New Year’s resolution in 2019 in the ring is to definitely win the world title,” said Plant. “First things first, I have to get that strap and then we’ll move on to bigger and better things. Outside of the ring it would be to get a house, then just go from there.”

Televised action on FS1 and FOX Deportes will also see rising contender Brandon Figueroa take on former title challenger Moises Flores in super bantamweight action. Nearing a world title shot, Figueroa will face a tough test in Flores, who is motivated to again compete for a belt.

“I’m looking to make 2019 the year I become a world champion,” said Figueroa. “This is going to be a tough fight, but I think I’m going to be the stronger man in the ring that night. I also want to use this talent I’ve been given to help people in need. My resolution is to be a good role model for kids and contribute as much as I can to my community.”

“Last year had a lot of ups and downs, but I’m looking forward to becoming a world champion and making a title defense in 2019,” said Flores. “I’m very thankful for everything I have. Outside of the ring my resolution is to open a seafood restaurant and buy a house for my family this year.”

The broadcast will also feature sensational 18-year-old prospect Joey Spencer, who burst onto the scene last year after turning pro following a stellar amateur career. He racked up five knockout wins and will look to continue his rise in the new year.

“I’m planning on fighting five times this year so my resolution is to go 5-0, with five knockouts,” said Spencer. “I just want to keep getting better all-around as a fighter this year and I know that people will see my progression.

“I usually don’t make resolutions, but when I do have a little time away from the gym, one good vacation with the family would be great.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

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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 and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Exciting Super Bantamweight Contender Fernando Garcia Leads Stacked Non-Televised Undercard on Sunday, January 13 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (January 7, 2019) – Exciting contender Fernando Garcia will take on Isao G. Carranza in an eight-round super bantamweight clash as part of a stacked undercard on Sunday, January 13 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The 30-year-old Garcia (10-0, 5 KOs) has moved up the ladder in the division with three wins in 2018 and wants to make a statement against Mexico’s Carranza (15-13-1, 9 KOs). Garcia was born in Mexico but now lives and trains in Dallas, Texas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Also in action are two unbeaten prospects as Indio, California’s Ruben Rodriguez (3-0, 1 KO) takes on Daniel Perales (10-14-2, 5 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight contest, while featherweight Victor Slvansky (7-0, 4 KOs) clashes with Mexico’s Angel Monrreal (10-11-1, 3 KOs).

Plus, Philippines’ Michael A. Plania (17-1, 10 KOs) will meet Mexico’s Ramiro Robles (15-8-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight match. Rounding out the slate of non-televised fights is Desoto, Texas-welterweight Amon Rashidi battling Evincii Dixon in a four-round match.

The jam-packed undercard is part of a Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes show that features IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui taking on unbeaten Caleb Plant in the main event. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa take on Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.

The undercard will also see PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT) featuring the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Also light heavyweight power-puncher Ahmed Elbiali battles Oklahoma’s Allan Green on the Prelims telecast, if time allows. Plus, Ryan “Cowboy” Karl and Kevin Watts meet in an eight-round rematch after Watts stopped Karl in round five of their exciting April bout that serves as an FS1 TV swing bout

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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 and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

CALEB PLANT LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (December 28, 2018) – Undefeated super middleweight contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant hosted a media workout in Las Vegas Friday as he nears his first world title opportunity when he takes on IBF 168-pound champion Jose Uzcategui in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa take on Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what Plant and his trainer Justin Gamber had to say Friday from City Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

CALEB PLANT

“This is a great matchup. I think this could be one of the best fights of the year. On paper at least, it already looks like that. He’s a rough rugged guy who comes forward and I know he’s coming to win.

“Any time that a pro fights for his first world title, it’s something that they’ve always dreamed of. This is something that I’ve always wanted. I’m excited to be here and be a part of this great night on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

“I really think that with our styles, this is going to be fireworks. I believe that on January 13 you will hear ‘and the new!’

“I’ve had the same team with me since the amateurs with only a couple new additions the last few years and we’re a close-knit family. It’s not just our job and our careers. I have a great corner. Everyone is calm, cool and collected and I feel we have a lot of knowledge. I’m excited for them to be on this journey with me and now we’re at the first stop.

“I’m going to bring excitement. Everyone who’s watched me sees my boxing skill, the speed, the footwork, but we have some new additions that we’ll throw in there for this fight. Everyone needs to tune in January 13 to see what it looks like.

“I’m so thankful for everyone, especially back in (Plant’s hometown) Nashville, Tennessee, who have been following me since the beginning. I’m not just doing this for me, I’m doing it for us. It’s going to be all of us in that ring on January 13.”

JUSTIN GAMBER, Plant’s Trainer

“This is what we’ve trained for since Caleb turned pro. This is the direction we’ve been headed the whole time and this is the biggest fight of our lives. We’ve put in as much work as we could. It’s been smart work, not only hard work.

“We’ve done everything we’ve had to in the gym, we’ve done our homework and we’ll be ready on fight night. This has been our best training camp by far. Everything Caleb has learned has led up to this point.

“Everything is coming together and Caleb is looking better than he ever has. He’s faster, stronger and he has more confidence than he’s ever had before.

“I love this matchup. Stylistically, Uzcategui comes forward, but he can do some different things. He’s a right-hander but he can fight southpaw. Uzcategui is good all around. He’s not great at any single thing, he’s just good everywhere.

“In this fight Uzcategui’s biggest assets will be his experience and his comfort level in the ring. But I think he’s tailor-made for Caleb and the hand speed and defense he brings. It’s definitely not going to be an easy fight, but it’s a fight that could play into Caleb’s hands stylistically. ”

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CALEB PLANT TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (December 19, 2018) – Unbeaten 168-pound contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant took time to talk about his current training as he prepares to battle IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Coverage on FS1 and FOX Deportes begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa take on Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Plant (17-0, 10 KOs) is originally from Nashville, Tennessee but now lives and trains in Las Vegas. Here is what he said about his first world title opportunity and more from training camp with trainer Justin Gamber at City Boxing Las Vegas.

On his recent training camp:

“This training camp has been great. We took everything to the next level as I do every camp. We stepped up everything for this camp, the sparring partners, the strength and conditioning, all of the training is on another level. I’ll be at my best come fight night and I can’t wait.”

On his matchup with Jose Uzcategui:

“Everyone says Jose Uzcategui is the bogeyman, but after January 13th, I don’t want no excuses. He is a top fighter in the division, but I will take that spot after I take his title from him. All I can tell him is be ready.”

On fighting for his first world title:

“This has been a lifelong dream of mine to be fighting for a world title and now that time has finally come. I’ll be fighting for my daughter Alia, may she rest in peace. The trials and tribulations I’ve gone through to get to this point have been overwhelming at times, but they’ve only made me stronger. I’ve worked hard for this defining moment in my boxing career and I’m going to rise to the occasion, and everyone will hear the words…And The New!”

On fighting on FS1 and FOX Deportes during the NFL Playoffs on FOX:

“It’s going to be a big weekend for sports with the NFC playoffs going down on FOX, but the night is going to be capped off with a great world championship fight. You have two warriors who will be putting everything on the line for super middleweight supremacy. Fans of all sports who will be watching are going to see a man in myself who is hungry and dangerous. I will be crowned champion!”

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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 and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Ortiz and Alexander battle to majority draw

Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander battle to a 12-round majority draw in a welterweight bout at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas.

In round two, Ortiz was cut over his right eye.

Ortiz won a card at 115-113, while two cards read even at 114-114. Ortiz, 146.4 lbs of Garden City, KS is 33-6-3. Alexander, 146.6 lbs of St. Louis, MO is 27-4-1.

“I absolutely thought I won the fight,” said Alexander. “The last few rounds I probably gave him, but I thought I out landed him in the 12th. I thought I did enough to win. I gave him three rounds.”

“I thought the decision was a little off and I thought I did enough to win,” said Ortiz. “The first few rounds were a little complicated. He’s a great boxer and he was timing me just right. I wasn’t leaving the line of fire.”

“The eye was tough to overcome,” said Ortiz. “I can’t really see out of it. I really had to listen to my corner. I tried to stay composed as I could, but he’s a really good fighter.”

“My game plan was to be smart,” said Alexander. “Victor always has problems with people that are faster and have more ring IQ. I wanted to put him in the state of mind that he can’t win.”

“I would love a rematch,” said Alexander. “That’s up to my team to see what’s next, but I’ll fight anybody. I’m a real fighter.”

“A rematch would be awesome,” said Ortiz. “If both teams agree and the fans want it, let’s make it happen.”

Caleb Plant won a 12-round unanimous decision over Rogelio Medina in a super middleweight elimination bout.

In round three, Medina began to bleed from his nose. Plant landed the superior punches and used a terrific jab to keep the hard charging Medina at bay. Medina made an effort in the final part of the final, but Plant was never threatened, and by scores of 120-108, 119-108 and 117-111 to raise his perfect mark to 17-0. Medina, 168.8 lbs of San Luis, MEX is 38-9.

“It was a tough fight tonight against a tough competitor who puts everything on the line,” said Plant. “I’m happy we got the job done tonight.”

“I stuck to the game plan and I did exactly what I said I was going to do,” said Plant. “I boxed his ears off for 12 rounds.”

“He never had me hurt, but I found his style very difficult,” said Medina. “He moves a lot and he’s pretty quick, so that was tough to deal with.”

“I think I felt the struggle to make weight a little bit,” said Medina. “I was a little tired in the later rounds and it probably was due to the drain to make weight. But it is what it is.”

“I want (IBF 168-pound champion) Caleb Truax,” said Plant. “He was calling me out when I was 12-0. I’m on the doorstep knocking now, let’s see if he still wants it. He can either ship me the IBF belt to my doorstep, or I’ll come take it off his waist.”

2016 U.S. Olympian remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Jorge Rojas in a lightweight bout.

Balderas, 133 lbs of Santa maria, CA won b y scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 4-0. Rojas, 132.6 lbs of Puebla, MEX is now 4-3-1.

“I felt good in there,” said Balderas. “I need to learn to relax a little bit more in the ring. I hurt him in the first round and I could have finished him quickly. My corner reminded me to slow down, but I was still throwing everything with power. I’m going to keep working on my composure in the gym. I can’t kill everyone in the first round.”

“I’m going to keep picking up my opposition this year,” said Balderas. “Rojas had a really good chin. I’m going to stay in great shape so I’m ready whenever the call comes. I’m going to keep working and aiming for that world title shot down the road.”

Victor Ortiz vs. Devon Alexander & Caleb Plant vs. Rogelio Medina Final Press Conference Quotes

EL PASO, TX. (February 15, 2018) – Former world champions Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander went face to face Thursday two days before they enter the ring for their Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes main event showdown this Saturday, February 17 from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas.

Also in attendance at Thursday’s press conference were undefeated contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Rogelio “Porky” Medina, who battle in a super middleweight world title eliminator. Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas battling Jorge Rojas.

IBF Female Featherweight World Champion Jennifer Han was also at Thursday’s press conference in her hometown, as she prepares to take on top contender Lizbeth Crespo in a world title defense.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Don Haskins Center

VICTOR ORTIZ

“We’re ready to go once again. I’m here for what’s mine, and that’s a victory. Alexander is a nice fighter and I’m sure it’ll be a war.

“The victory is the only thing on my mind. I’m here to defeat Devon Alexander. I just need to trust my training and I know it’ll give the result I want.

“I’m definitely looking for the knockout. I want to put on a great performance for these fans. They’ve supported me throughout this promotion and I owe them something memorable.

“Devon and I have known each other for a long time, but that all goes out the window on fight night. It’s going to be a brawl. We’re going to do what we have to do to get this win and move on to the next step of my career.”

DEVON ALEXANDER

“No one wants to hear me say what I’m going to do. People want to see me beat Victor Ortiz. Nothing else matters. I’m prepared to come in and win this fight. I’m going to win and get back to the top.

“I’m so blessed to be in this position. I’ve had ups and downs in my life and career, but it’s all been leading to this moment and this part of my career. I’ve got something special coming for the fans.

“I’m really excited to be fighting in El Paso. This is clearly a fight town and I can’t wait to give them a great show on Saturday.

“This fight is so important to me. I know how important it is to Victor too. We both need these wins to get to where we want to be in the future. Only one of us can move on, and It’s going to be me.”

CALEB PLANT

“This has been the best camp of my life. Everyone always says that, but this has truly been the best one I’ve ever had. I have a great team that I’m very lucky to have.

“It’ll come down to who has the will to win. There’s a stigma that people on the ‘A side’ haven’t been through trials and tribulations. But I’ve been through more than anyone can imagine.

“I’m not playing around. This is no joke to me. This is all I’ve ever had. When I was a kid with no heat and the lights were off, boxing was all I had. Saturday night I’m getting my hand raised and I’ll be one step closer to a world title.

“Saturday night is going to be fireworks. There’s no secrets what’s going to happen when I fight ‘Porky’ Medina. He’s coming to break me down, and I’m coming to box.”

ROGELIO MEDINA

“I am honored to be a part of this card and compete in a big fight like this in a fight city like El Paso. I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans.

“I’m determined to get this win. Caleb Plant is a good fighter, but he’s never fought anyone as tough as me. I don’t think he’s going to be ready for my pressure.

“I’m always going to come forward and look for the knockout. That’s what we train for and that’s the only thing on my mind. I have to go right through Caleb Plant to earn another world title shot.”

JENNIFER HAN

“I want to thank El Paso for always being there to support me. I couldn’t do what I do without all the fans.

“I’m truly blessed to have the help and support of me team. We work hard together and we win together.

“I’m thankful to Lizbeth Crespo for coming to El Paso. I’ve had problems in the past getting opponents here who are ready. She looks ready to go and we’re going to put on a great show.

“This is such a talented card full of world class fighters. If the fans show up, we’re going to keep having big events like this in El Paso.”

LIZBETH CRESPO

“I am thrilled to be here. It’s an honor to be fighting Jennifer Han. She’s the queen of El Paso and I’m excited to fight her in her backyard.

“I’m focus and determined to win this fight. I’ve had a wonderful training camp and I’m looking forward to taking home the victory for Argentina.”

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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.tgbpromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Victor Ortiz vs. Devon Alexander & Caleb Plant vs. Rogelio Medina El Paso Media Workout Quotes

EL PASO, TX. (February 14, 2018) – Former welterweight world champions Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander showed off their skills at a media workout in El Paso Wednesday, as they prepare for their Saturday, February 17 showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes action from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas.

Also in attendance at Wednesday’s workout were undefeated contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Rogelio “Porky” Medina, who battle in a super middleweight world title eliminator. Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas battling Jorge Rojas.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wolves Den Boxing Gym:

VICTOR ORTIZ

“I had a great training camp. I just made sure to listen to my coach every day and grind every day with my team. You really have to grind when people say this is your ‘last chance,’ because I’m not ready for that.

“Every fight shows a lot. Every time I step into the ring it’s a new challenge. I haven’t had any shortcuts throughout my career. I’ve never treated a fight like an easy fight.

“Life tends to take you certain places and right now I’m where I’m supposed to be. I’m 31-years-old and I believe I’m going to be able to accomplish all my goals in this sport.

“Devon Alexander is a very fast boxer who was a champion for a reason. We’ve prepared for him in each and every way possible. We’ve worked hard to be in the best condition possible. I won’t step out of the ring without that victory.

“I’ve done what I have to do to prepare for Devon Alexander. I have speed and power and that’s a scary combination for any welterweight.

“I’m thankful for the support of El Paso and I’m proud to be fighting in the main event on Saturday. We’re here to perform for everybody and have a great time.”

DEVON ALEXANDER

“I feel great right now. It’s been a tremendous training camp and I’m ready to go. I’m happy to be in El Paso to do something I love to do. Boxing is what I was born to do and I’m just ready for Saturday.

“Victor Ortiz is a good fighter. We’ve known each other for a long time. We used to fight in a lot of the same amateur tournaments. We go back a long way but this is business. We’re not friends in the ring. We’re not playing games.

“This fight is very important to me. This can catapult me back to title contention. If this doesn’t go my way, it’s very bad for my career. If I pull out the win, it could lead to tremendous opportunities for me. This is a do-or-die fight.

“I’ve added more power in this camp. But we’ve pretty much kept it typical with that emphasis on really looking good on fight night. It’s just been an all-around good camp. Victor Ortiz can’t bring something that we haven’t seen before.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’m ready for this fight. A lot of boxers say they had their best camp heading into a big fight, but I truly have never had a camp this good. From sparring to conditioning, mentally and spiritually, I’m on point.

“Medina is a tough competitor. He puts it all on the line and he doesn’t quit. We’ve had problems in the past getting people to quit, but I feel we’ve figured out how to take me to that next level and get these guys out of there.

“This is a great USA vs. Mexico showdown. I’m coming to put on a show for all the fans here and watching on television.

“Everyone has a plan until they miss their first 40 punches. We both have plans, but all that matters is if you can translate that into the ring. Stylistically, I don’t think he’s fought anyone like me. It’s exciting because everyone knows what both of us are coming to do. It’s the bull versus the matador.”

ROGELIO MEDINA

“The fact that I’ve been sparring with David Benavidez in camp and have Alex Ariza around has me feeling very confident. I’m in great shape and will be ready for a great performance on fight night.

“I know that Plant likes to run and stay on the outside. Once he feels my power, I know he’s going to run even more. I’ve been making sure I’m in proper condition to chase him, cut the ring off and apply pressure.

“Everyone knows I like to fight coming forward. I’m fully confident in my abilities to get this win and earn another shot at the world title.”

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Sensational 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas Battles Jorge Rojas Live in Primetime on Premier Boxing Champions On FOX & FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas in Primetime on Saturday, February 17 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

EL PASO, TX. (February 8, 2018) – Highly touted 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas will battle Jorge Rojas in a six-round matchup live in primetime on Saturday, February 17 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes action from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas with television covered starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Balderas vs. Rojas will be featured on fight night coverage, which is headlined by a 12-round duel between former welterweight world champions Victor Ortiz (32-6-2, 25 KOs) and Devon Alexander (27-4, 14 KOs) in the main event and an a 12-round IBF super middleweight title elimination bout between undefeated contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant (16-0, 10 KOs) and Rogelio “Porky” Medina (38-8, 32 KOs) in the co-feature.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

“It’s just speaks to who Karlos is that he has a televised spot on national TV,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports, Balderas’ promoter. “He’s one of those once in a generation talents that combines power, style and grace. From his ring walk and how easily he dispatches opponents you can see this young man has star written all over him. He has that “it” factor. He engages people and gets them all fired up. He has an amazing aura. He’s fun to watch and engaging. I’m expecting a great performance from him.”

The 21-year-old Balderas (3-0, 3 KOs), a first-generation Mexican-American, competed on the U.S. Olympic boxing team in the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Balderas of Santa Maria, California turned pro last year and fought three times in 2017. He scored a knockout victory over Carlos Flores in his last fight on Dec. 15.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on this card on FOX and FOX Deportes in primetime,” said Balderas. “It means more people can see that I’m here and I’m ready and I’m in great shape. We’ve been doing a bunch of different things in my training camp, like biking and swimming that I know will help me. My first three fights have finished very fast, so people haven’t seen my true speed and power. I have an explosiveness that I’d like to showcase more. I’ll look to show more of my speed and my boxing skill in this fight. I need more rounds and experience to progress. I want to box and move more, use my feet more in this fight. I’d like to do that, but we’ll see what happens.”

Rojas (4-2-1, 2 KOs) fought four times last year and is coming off a loss to Cesar Soriano in his last fight on Oct. 17. The 27-year-old Rojas of Puebla, Mexico will be fighting in the U.S. for the first time in his career.

“I’ve been given a great opportunity,” said Rojas. I’m going to go out there, fight my heart out and try to do my best. Let the best man win. I’m going to do everything I can to represent my team and my city of Cholula. I’ve been training really hard to make the most of this chance. This is really big for me and I want to leave a good impression on the fans, no matter the result.”

Also featured on this exciting night of fights is former 154-pound champion Austin Trout (30-4, 17 KOs), who takes on Juan De Angel (20-7-1, 18 KOs) in a junior middleweight affair, former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. (20-3, 14 KOs), who battles Humberto Velazco Torres (18-1-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight bout, Mark Anthony Hernandez (11-1, 3 KOs), who takes on Jeison Rosario (14-1, 11 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight fight and 154-pound contender Tony Harrison (25-2, 20 KOs), who enters the ring looking to pick up a victory on his way to a second world title shot.

Rounding out the action is IBF Female Featherweight World Champion Jennifer Han (16-3-1, 1 KO), who fights out of El Paso and will defend her title against Bolivia’s Lizbeth Crespo (11-3, 3 KOs), plus Argentina’s Jonathan Pachado (1-0, 1 KO) against Josh Ross (3-6-4) in a four-round lightweight fight, unbeaten Wesley Diana (1-0, 1 KO) in four rounds of lightweight action and Karlos’ brother Jose Balderas (2-0) in a four round bantamweight affair.
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Caleb Plant Las Vegas Media Workout Quotes

LAS VEGAS (February 7, 2018) – Undefeated super middleweight contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant hosted a media workout in Las Vegas Wednesday as he prepares for his world title eliminator showdown against Rogelio “Porky” Medina Saturday, February 17 as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by a 12-round duel between former welterweight world champions Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander. Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

Here is what Plant had to say Thursday from City Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

CALEB PLANT

“Medina is a rough, tough competitor who comes to win every time. He puts it all on the line, so I expect it to be a great fight. He’s going to fight to the very end so I have to be ready.

“Training camp has been excellent. A lot of fighters say this, but this truly has been my best camp. My sparring and my strength training has been on point. My weight is on point and I’m ready to put it all together on February 17.

“My team has done a great job putting me in a position to be at my best on fight night. We’re going to keep working so that everything finishes with me putting on a great performance in El Paso.

“It’s great to be fighting in primetime on FOX and FOX Deportes. I know I’ll have a lot of eyes on me but I’m not going to let it affect what I do. I’m going to stay under control and execute the game plan we worked on.

“Caleb Truax just won the IBF title and after this fight I’ll be number two in that division. That’s definitely a fight that we want and will look to make happen after this one. David Benavidez is the fight I would want first after I win the IBF title.

“This is going to be a fun USA vs. Mexico fight and I’m looking to represent for my country. I think the competitiveness will be extremely high on fight night.

“I’m thankful to everyone who has supported me and I’m going to keep giving them great performances on February 17.”

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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.tgbpromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @FOX, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander Clash in Battle of Former Welterweight World Champions Saturday, February 17 Live in Primetime from Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas in the Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes

EL PASO, TX (January 8, 2018) – “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Devon Alexander “The Great” headline a show topped by two USA vs. Mexico battles as the former welterweight champions meet in the 12-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Feb. 17 from Don Haskins Center on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas with televised coverage starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

In the co-main event unbeaten contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant will battle Rogelio “Porky” Medina in a 12-round 168-pound world title eliminator.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $60, $40, $25 and will go on sale Friday. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Also on the card, Tony Harrison (25-2, 20 KOs) takes on Jorge Cota (27-2, 24 KOs) in a super welterweight showdown and Karlos Balderas, a 2016 U.S. Olympian, will appear in a lightweight special attraction.

“This is a classic crossroads match in the truest sense. Both Devon Alexander and Victor Ortiz are battle-tested in one of the toughest, deepest divisions in boxing,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Alexander has overcome some serious health issues and is looking to regain the welterweight championship. Ortiz, also a former champion, has always come to fight and doesn’t back down from anyone. It promises to be an entertaining match for the fans in attendance at Don Haskins Center and those who tune in on FOX and FOX Deportes.”
Ortiz (32-6-2, 25 KOs), a former 147-pound champion, has split time between boxing and acting throughout his recent career and brings a certain flare every time he steps into the ring. The 30-year-old native of Garden City, Kansas who now lives in Ventura, California, has faced some of the top names in the 147-pound division during his career. Ortiz won the welterweight title with unanimous decision victory over Andre Berto on April 16, 2011. Five months later he lost the title to Floyd Mayweather, Jr. by knockout. Ortiz, 30, suffered a knockout loss to Andre Berto in 2016 on FOX and bounced back with a knockout victory over Saul Corral in his last fight on July 30 on FS1.

“I’m ready to give all I have to defeat Devon Alexander and get my crown back,” said Ortiz. “My priority is to make a strong comeback and putting myself in a position to have my straps once again. I demonstrated what I was made of and did what I said I was going to do in my last fight. I’m facing a great fighter in Devon Alexander and someone I’ve known since we were kids. I don’t hate him, but I will not be his friend on fight night and he won’t be mine. I’m ready to prove everyone wrong starting on Feb. 17.”

Alexander (27-4, 14 KOs) emerged on the scene with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey for the welterweight title in 2012. He defended the title once before losing it to Shawn Porter in 2013. Since then, the 30-year-old Alexander of St. Louis, Missouri has been on a mission to regain the title. After losing to Amir Khan and Aaron Martinez, Alexander suffered another setback when he sought treatment for an addiction to painkillers. Fully healthy for the first time in three years, Alexander returned to the ring with a unanimous decision victory over Walter Castillo on FS1 on Nov. 21.

“I’m excited to get back in there against a fighter like Victor Ortiz,” said Alexander. “We’ve known each other a long time but never fought in the amateurs, so this should be interesting. My speed, quickness and smarts will win me this fight. Victor checks out sometimes when he can’t hit you, so my skills will be the difference. I’m ready for any challenge that’s brought my way. When I’m 100 percent, nobody can beat me.”

Plant (16-0, 10 KOs) won eight of his first nine fights by knockout, demonstrating power in both hands to go along with his boxing abilities. The 25-year-old climbed into the top ten of the 168-pound rankings with his last victory – a unanimous decision over Andrew Hernandez in Las Vegas on Sept. 8. Medina represents a major step up for Plant and will give him an indication of just where the Ashland, Tennessee native stands in the division as he looks to become a mandatory challenger for the IBF title.

The 29-year-old Medina (38-8, 32 KOs) has squared off against some of the toughest boxers in the division, including current champion David Benavidez and former champions James DeGale and Badou Jack. Fighting out of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico lost by knockout to Benavidez on May 20, and bounced back with a knockout victory over Daniel Eduardo Yocupicio on Sept. 1.

The FOX prime time broadcast will kick off a full night of boxing, leading into a doubleheader on SHOWTIME that features two-division world champion Danny Garcia versus Brandon Rios and 168-pound champion David Benavidez defending his title in a rematch against Ronald Gavril from Las Vegas.

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Plant decisions Hernandez

Caleb Plant remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Andre Hernandez in a super middleweight bout.

In round nine, Hernandez was cut under his left eye.

Plant, 167.2 lbs of Nashville, TN won by scores of 100-90 on all cards, and is now 16-0. Hernandez, 166.4 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 19-7-1.

CALEB “SWEETHANDS” PLANT LAUNCHES MOBILE APP FOR APPLE AND ANDRIOD

LAS VEGAS, NV (September 8, 2017) – Before his big fight on Showtime tonight, undefeated super-middleweight contender, Caleb “Sweethands” Plant (15-0, 10 KOs) is happy to announce the launching of his Mobile App. Everyone is encouraged to go on Apple (iOS) and Android (Google Play) App stores and type in “Sweethands” to download Caleb’s App.

“Sweethands” fans will be updated via push notifications on everything Caleb Plant is doing inside and outside of the ring, in addition to all Team Plant gear, that will be available for sale soon.

“I’m very excited to be one of the first professional athletes to be ahead of the game in the world of mobile centric branding,” said Caleb Plant. “My mobile app allows me to centralize my brand to the globe via smart-phones. I just read that the average person looks at their mobile phone 53 times a day. As I move forward in my career, my mobile brand will evolve with me. I want all my fans to go download the app and connect with me, and the cool thing is…I can connect right back to them.”

Unbeaten Rising Contender David Benavidez & Hard Hitting Ronald Gavril Battle for Vacant WBC Super Middleweight World Title in Main Event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Friday, Sept. 8 Presented by Premier Boxing Champions from The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (August 17, 2017) – Unbeaten rising star David Benavidez and powerful contender Ronald Gavril will battle for the vacant WBC Super Middleweight World Championship on Friday, Sept. 8 live on SHOWTIME in the headlining attraction of a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/PT and will feature two additional showdowns in the super middleweight division. Once-beaten J’Leon Love (23-1, 13 KOs) will battle Texas-native Abraham Han (26-3, 16 KOs) in a 10-round bout while unbeaten prospect Caleb Plant (15-0, 10 KOs) takes on Mexico’s Alan Campa (16-3, 11 KOs) in 10 rounds of action.

Benavidez (18-0, 17 KOs) has a chance to make history – at just 20-years-old he is aiming to become the youngest super middleweight champion in history and the youngest reigning world champion in the sport today. Gavril (18-1, 14 KOs) will seek to keep the WBC 168-pound title in the Mayweather Promotions family after it was vacated by his stablemate, Badou Jack.

“This opportunity means the world to me,” said Benavidez. “I’ve been working for his since I was a little kid. It’s all come down to this moment when I’m ready to take this belt and take over the 168-pound division. The time is almost here, and I can hardly wait for September 8. Winning the championship would be enough on its own. But the opportunity to be the youngest in the sport is a major accomplishment and the biggest of my life, so far. I have a tough competitor in front of me, and I know he’s treating it as seriously as I am. I’ve been working for two and a half months for this fight and I’m not overlooking him.”

“It’s been a great journey for me getting to this point of fighting for a world title,” said Gavril. “I have a great team behind me who pushes me every single day to perform my best, learn from my mistakes and perfect my technique. Those values have gotten me here and I am thankful for such an amazing opportunity. I will go out there and give it everything I have, I can’t leave the ring without the championship belt.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are priced at $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale Tuesday, Aug. 22. To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Box Office.

“In November 2015, I said that I had new blood for our industry David Benavidez, who would be the best and youngest super middleweight champion in the history of our sport,” said Sampson Lewkowicz, Benavidez’ promoter. “We didn’t cherry pick this opponent. He was the next available contender when Anthony Dirrell pulled out. We expect fireworks. We expect to birth a new superstar. The most important thing is to determine in which round Gavril will be knocked out, because I believe that we’re talking about matching a jet plane against a helicopter. So I expect a spectacular performance from Benavidez, who will begin his run as the new blood in boxing and will keep it going until he retires.”

“To be in a position to announce another great card coming just weeks after the biggest event in sports history shows that Mayweather Promotions shows no signs of slowing down,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We are thrilled to present this fight card on September 9, filled with tremendous talent featuring top contenders in the Mayweather Promotions stable. Gavril has proven to be a tough competitor, he’s on a long win streak with his last four coming by way of TKO, Love making his return to the stage is sure to excite fans, and the always exciting Caleb Plant will definitely put on show. This is what boxing is about, bringing together some of the most exciting talents on one stage.”

After delivering a highlight reel knockout of Rogelio Medina in May, Benavidez has now racked up a perfect 18 wins in 18 starts at just 20-years-old. The younger brother of undefeated Jose Benavidez, David picked up four victories via stoppage in 2015 and continued with four more in 2016 including blasting out previously unbeaten Francy Ntetu in June and tough contender Denis Douglin in August. Most recently, Benavidez began his 2017 campaign with a second-round destruction of Sherali Mamajonov in January. The Phoenix-native will look to make history in the 168-pound division on September 8.

Born in Romania, Gavril won a 165 amateur fights and trained with the National Team before turning pro in 2011 and eventually moving to Las Vegas to train at the Mayweather Boxing Club. The 31-year-old won his first 11 pro fights before dropping a narrow contest to veteran Elvin Ayala. Gavril bounced back emphatically with seven straight victories including then unbeaten Oscar Riojas and once-beaten Christopher Brooker. He scored a third-round stoppage of Decarlo Perez in April ahead of his first world title opportunity.

A once-beaten contender at 168-pounds, the 29-year-old Love bounced back from his lone defeat with three victories 2015 before stopping Michael Gbenga and Dashon Johnson in 2016. The Inkster, Mich., native earned wins over Marco Antonio Periban, Derrick Findley and Lajuan Simon on his way to contender status and will look for another victory to put him in world title contention.

Han is a former champion kickboxer and third degree black Blackbelt who hails from El Paso, Texas and enters this fight the winner of his last three contests, including a first round stoppage in March of this year. A winner of his first 19 pro bouts, the 32-year-old owns a victory over Marcos Reyes in addition to narrow losses to former champion Sergio Mora and former title challenger Fernando Guerrero.

A 2011 National Golden Gloves champion, Plant has begun to make his name in the professional ranks since turning pro in 2014. After picking up six victories in 2015, Plant continued his success with stoppages of Adasat Rodriguez and Carlos Galvan before going 10 rounds for the first time in a unanimous decision victory over Juan De Angel in August 2016. The 25-year-old from Nashville began training in Las Vegas this year and picked up a victory over Thomas Awimbono in February.

Fighting out of Sonora, Mexico, the 25-year-old Campa enters this contest the winner of three of his last four contests, including a victory over then once-beaten Paul Valenzuela Jr. last April. Campa has fought professionally since 2010 and won his first nine fights while also battling top contenders Sergey Derevyanchenko and Jesse Hart.

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