June 8, 2023 – Undefeated light heavyweight prospects Ali Izmailov (10-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and SHOBOX^® alum Charles Foster (22-0, 12 KOs) of New Haven, Conn., both made weight Thursday, a day ahead of their 10-round main event showdown on SHOBOX: The New Generation tomorrow night, Friday, June 9 live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

This marks the second straight year SHOBOX will be a part of the Hall of Fame Induction Weekend festivities with the tripleheader featuring six light heavyweights who have never tasted defeat. In the co-feature, college graduate Richard Vansiclen (13-0-1, 6 KOs) from Seattle, Wash., returns to SHOBOX to take on fellow unbeaten and hard-hitting Colombian Juan Carrillo (10-0, 8 KOs). In the telecast opener, Australian native Clay Waterman (10-0, 8 KOs) makes his U.S. debut against Florida’s Kenmon Evans (10-0-1, 3 KOs).

International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the blow-by-blow action for SHOBOX with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood joining the team remotely as the unofficial scorer. Former world champion Raul Marquez and veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT co-host Brian Campbell will serve as ringside expert analysts. They will be accompanied by Hall of Famer and SHOWTIME Boxing^® analyst Al Bernstein, as well as by Hall of Famer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. handling ring announcing duties. The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

The night of fights is promoted by Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions.

FINAL WEIGHTS:

Light Heavywieght 10-Round Bout

Ali Izmailov – 174 pounds

Charles Foster – 172 ¼ pounds

Referee: Charlie Fitch; Judges: Tom Schreck (N.Y.), Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Don Ackerman (N.Y.)

Light Heavyweight 10-Round Bout

Richard Vansiclen – 172 ½ pounds

Juan Carrillo – 174 pounds

Referee: Benjy Esteves; Judges: John McKaie (N.Y.), Eric Marlinski (N.Y.), Don Trella (Conn.)

Light Heavyweight Eight-Round Bout

Clay Waterman – 173 ½ pounds

Kenmon Evans – 173 ½ pounds

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Tom Schreck (N.Y.), Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Don Ackerman (N.Y.)

FINAL QUOTES:

ALI IZMAILOV

“I don’t feel any pressure. I’m very focused. I’m here to do my job and I will take care of business tomorrow night. He is a little taller than me, but I don’t think that’ll be an issue for me.

“I fought a lefty in my last fight [Marcelo Ruben Molina]. I did a lot of sparring with Juan Carrillo, who’s on this card.

“The better the opposition, the better I showcase my skills. I think I’m ready to take big steps and progress with my career. I’d like to get a title shot. I’d love to fight Artur Beterbiev, Dmitry Bivol or Canelo at some point in the near future.

“I was born for this. Since I was a little kid, I’ve been training to be a boxer. My after-school activities involved boxing and combat sports. Growing up I looked up to Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson and as I grew older I also started admiring Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather.

“I take every fight seriously, but especially this one because of the Hall of Fame Weekend and I know there will be a lot of eyes on these fights.

“My goal is to show high-level boxing and people will make a decision and form their opinions on me based on my skills.”

CHARLES FOSTER

“I’m excited to go out there and showcase my skills and talent. It’s been a while since I was last on SHOBOX [2018], but I’m sure people will remember my win. I do remember thinking, ‘This is national TV’ and I wanted to play it safe and not take any risks. I still got the job done. So for sure I’m going to be a little more aggressive this time out.

“I know my opponent is tough, but tomorrow night we’ll see just how tough he is.

“I think I have advantage over my opponent in all aspects of the fight game – mentally, conditioning, skills. Everything. I have improved and have been working extremely hard for this night. I can’t wait. 

“I work full-time as a mechanical insulator, just like my dad. It’s tough to balance a job and training camp, but the guys back in the day used to do it, so I have no problem with it. I am able to take a little time off and get ready during fight week.

“My little brother [William Foster III] has also won on SHOBOX so we’re in pretty good company. Brothers winning on SHOBOX – just like the Charlos did.”

RICHARD VANSICLEN

“I’m from Seattle, but living in San Diego now, which has been better for my training than being in Seattle. I’ve been in there with David Benavidez, and he’s actually helped boxing in that area with his gym.

“My conditioning is the biggest thing I’ve been working on. I’m faster and I’m stronger now and you will definitely see that in this fight.

“I knew who Roy Jones was but I didn’t know that much about pro boxing when I was first introduced to it at age 19 and in college.

“I had a tough upbringing and I never knew my father. We were in and out of homeless shelters and I owe it all to my mom Mary for getting me to where I am today. Someday when I’m all done and they are doing my 30 for 30 it will all go back to mom. After all the stuff she went through.

“I’ve chosen boxing as what I want to do, and I love it. I’ve been fighting my entire life.

“We’ve seen Juan Carrillo. He has some skills and there are a lot of things we can do to exploit what he does, especially in our movement and our athleticism. We are ready for anything he throws at us.

“I’m coming to steal the show, I’m coming to win. I’m coming for it all. I’m just so excited to be here and have a good time.”

JUAN CARRILLO

“I’ve been waiting my entire life for this. I’m very, very confident with my preparation and my conditioning. To go 10 rounds is not going to be a problem for me.

“This is the most difficult fight in my career, for sure. I’m a very hungry fighter and I’m confident at the end of the night it will be my hand that is raised in victory.

“My opponent is a talented fighter. I know he can fight, and I know he’s coming in hungry. But the person who’s going to be victorious is the one who is hungrier, and that’s me. You’re going to be impressed when I knock this kid out.

“I was born and raised in Barranquilla, Colombia, but since my last fight in February I’ve been training in Miami with Chino Perez at the 5^th Street Gym. Everyone knows it as the Muhammad Ali gym. It’s pretty cool. You see the pictures hanging on the wall and it’s hard not to just feel like a champion.”

CLAY WATERMAN

“It’s amazing that our fight got elevated to the SHOBOX portion of the night and is a huge opportunity for me and my team coming all the way from Australia.

“It’s been a dream of mine for years to finally get this chance.

“I train in my backyard shed at my home. I’ve had about four different coaches over the years, and the last five or six years my father has been coaching me. We’ve had a small gym set up for the last seven years, but the last year, we’ve had a proper set up with a ring.

“I was in camp as a sparring partner with Artur Beterbiev before his last fight. It made me very hungry for what I really want. I was in Montréal for three weeks. I did a lot of rounds with him, a lot of very good rounds – maybe 40, or something like that. I loved it! I loved working with him and his team. I was very grateful to get that opportunity.

“I feel like I’m an all-rounder. I can mix it up and adapt and change when I need to change. If things aren’t going well in the ring, I can get back to the corner and we’ll change it up a little bit and do what I need to do to win.

“I am making my U.S. debut in this fight, and on Hall of Fame Weekend. You couldn’t ask for anything more.”

KENMON EVANS

“I’ve always been the tallest fighter, and I plan to use my range. I’m a smart fighter and can adapt to anything thrown at me.

“I’ll use the length to my advantage. It’s always been that way so this fight will be no different.

I’m good at using my length and my jab.

“As soon as I met [Hall of Famer] Christy Martin it was like, ‘Wow!’ What a big motivation to have her in my corner because I want to follow that path and that legacy.

“She got her start on SHOWTIME, and now it’s my turn.

“I thought about quitting the sport, but then I got an opportunity with Bare Knuckles. I had to wait and be patient and now my dream is becoming a reality.

“Boxing was just another way out to put me in a better position, because I got in trouble by being in the streets and everything. But I messed around and killed my dreams and boxing was my only way out.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 89 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

NEW YORK – June 6, 2023 – Rising unbeaten light heavyweight Ali Izmailov has set his sights on the top of the 175-pound division as he hopes to improve his championship credentials with an emphatic victory over fellow unbeaten Charles Foster this Friday, June 9 in the 10-round main event headlining SHOBOX: The New Generation from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

“I’m coming for everyone at 175-pounds,” said the 30-year-old Izmailov. “I plan on making a statement on Friday night. I’m going to showcase my power and boxing ability against a world-rated fighter. When the opportunity for the knockout comes, I’m taking it and I’m ending his night early.”

Izmailov’s confidence is echoed by his renowned trainer John David Jackson and promoter Dmitriy Salita, who both believe he’ll stamp his place in the division in the near future.

“Ali is one of the best fighters I’ve trained with and he has tremendous power that you can only be born with,” said Jackson. “I believe he’s going to be beating Dmitriy Bivol, Artur Beterbiev, Canelo Alvarez, or whoever is holding the world titles when the time comes. Friday night during the Boxing Hall of Fame weekend is the perfect stage for him to make his grand entrance against a very good opponent.”

“I believe that Ali is the best light heavyweight in the world,” said Salita, the President of Salita Promotions. “We’re putting him on the fast-track to success. He’s facing a very experienced and capable opponent who has more than twice the amount of fights as Ali. It’s the perfect fight for him to take the next step on his way to a world title shot.”

Izmailov (10-0, 7 KOs) has shown tremendous power in stopping six of his last seven opponents, with his only distance fight in that stretch coming via a 10-round unanimous decision over then-unbeaten Eric Murgui last August. As he’s continued to train with Jackson, Izmailov believes his other boxing attributes have continued to grow and will soon be recognized by the rest of the sport.

“I’m known for my power, but offensive and defensive techniques and my ring IQ have all improved and I’m going to show everyone that on Friday night,” said Izmailov. “John David Jackson has taught me how to train like a professional, and I’ve seen the difference in what I can do. I’m learning every day because of the experience that my coach brings into camp.”

In the 33-year-old Foster (22-0, 12 KOs), Izmailov will face his toughest pro competition to date, as the New Haven, Connecticut-native is unbeaten in his career that dates back to 2011. With both fighters in position to rocket-boost their careers with a win on Friday, Izmailov knows that Foster’s hunger will match his own.

“I know that he’s experienced on this stage and that like me, he’s looking for a breakout performance,” said Izmailov. “I want him to come to fight. I want to give the fans something exciting for as long as he can take it.”

Now just days away from stepping into the ring, Izmailov knows the stakes for this battle of unbeatens and is confident that he’ll live up to the promise that his team sees in his boxing future.

“This is my moment to graduate to the elite level of the light heavyweight division,” said Izmailov. “I’m very grateful to SHOWTIME and to my promoter Salita Promotions. I’ve put in the hard work in training camp and I know that nobody watching is going to be disappointed with what I do in the ring on Friday night.”

# # #

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including SHOWTIME, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action. 

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 88 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

NEW YORK – April 28, 2023 – Blue-chip prospect and top-10 ranked light heavyweight Ali Izmailov (10-0, 7 KOs) faces his toughest test to date when he takes on fellow unbeaten and highly decorated amateur Charles Foster (22-0, 12 KOs) in the 10-round main event as SHOBOX: The New Generation returns to Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y., during Hall of Fame Weekend on Friday, June 9 at 9 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME. This marks the second straight year SHOBOX^® will be a part of the Hall of Fame Induction Weekend festivities. 

The exciting tripleheader features two undefeated matchups and includes fighters with a combined record of 99-2-2 and 56 knockouts. In the co-feature, college graduate Richard Vansiclen (13-0-1, 6 KOs) from Seattle, Wash., takes on fellow unbeaten and hard-hitting Colombian Juan Carrillo (10-0, 8 KOs) in a 10-round light heavyweight matchup. In the telecast opener, former SHOBOX main-event winner and rising super lightweight prospect Mykquan Williams (19-0-1, 8 KOs) will face battletested Ryan Martin (25-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

This marks the fourth time since 2013 that a SHOBOX card has taken place in conjunction with Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, which will occur June 8-11. SHOBOX has visited Turning Stone Resort Casino a total of seven times previously during its 21-year history. The three-fight telecast on June 9 is promoted by Dmitriy Salita’s Salita Promotions.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office or online at Ticketmaster.

“It’s great to be back at Turning Stone Resort Casino for Hall of Fame Weekend,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer for SHOBOX: The New Generation. “Our three fight card features 50-50 matchups with the winner of the main event clearly establishing themselves as a top contender in the light heavyweight division. Each of these fighters aspires to be inducted into the Hall of Fame one day, much as former SHOBOX fighters and Class of 2023 Hall of Famers Tim Bradley and Carl Froch once did. On behalf of all of us at SHOWTIME, congratulations to all the inductees!”

Added Salita, “Six fighters, five undefeated, will put it all on the line in by far the most significant fights of their careers. There is no better proving ground than SHOBOX and no better celebration of boxing than Hall of Fame Weekend. The boxing world will be watching. I’m honored to promote such an event.”   

Here is more on each of the three bouts:

Izmailov vs. Foster – 10-Round Light Heavyweight Main Event

Ranked No. 7 by the IBF and No. 8 by the WBO after just 10 fights, the John David Jackson-trained Izmailov is a fast-rising force in the light heavyweight division. A former amateur standout having won multiple elite international tournaments, Izmailov, economical and efficient in the ring, has been matched tough throughout his professional career. In his second fight, he cruised to a six-round unanimous decision over 30-fight veteran Dmitry Sukhotskiy and followed that with a dominant performance against once-beaten Sergei Ekimov. Since making his U.S. debut in October 2021, Izmailov is 5-0 with four KOs. Before his first-round knockout over Marcelo Ruben Molina in his last bout in March, Izmailov had back-to-back wins over undefeated opponents, including a unanimous decision over Eric Murguia in August. Originally from Malgobek, Russia, the 30-year-old Izmailov currently resides in Detroit when he’s not training in Florida with top trainer Jackson.

“I want to fight the very best to show the boxing world who I am,” Izmailov said. “I look forward to a great training camp with my trainer John David Jackson in Florida and a statement-making performance on June 9.”

Fighting out of New Haven, Conn., the southpaw SHOBOX alum Foster is coming off three straight knockouts, including his last in December against Rafael Fernandez Sosa in the Dominican Republic via a sixth-round stoppage. Prior to that, Foster was part of Hall of Fame Weekend last year as he took out Bo Gibbs, Jr., in Verona with a fourth-round TKO. In May of 2018 on SHOBOX at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Foster outworked then-undefeated Alvin Varmall to win a unanimous decision. He is a former four-time Connecticut Golden Glove winner and National PAL silver medalist. Foster, known for his heavy hands and slick movement, is promoted by Lou DiBella and Murphys Boxing, the promotional company founded by Ken Casey of the popular rock band Dropkick Murphys.

“Thanks to SHOBOX for bringing me back after five long years,” Foster said. “I have been here before. I’ve fought an undefeated fighter already on SHOBOX. I know what it takes. Last time, I won in good fashion. I know Ali is a good fighter. He’s a tough competitor with a good corner in John David Jackson. I have been with my team since I was 14 years old. This fight will put me right back where I was before the pandemic.”

Vansiclen vs. Carrillo – 10-Round Light Heavyweight Bout

Sporting a 45-5 amateur record, the 2015 University of Washington graduate was the National Collegiate Boxing Association 174-pound Champion in 2015, the same year he competed at the Olympic Trials. Known as a thinker and strategist in the ring, Vansiclen, a high school football standout, also possesses an exciting, come-forward style and likes to mix it up. He will be taking on his third undefeated opponent on June 9 after he most recently decisioned 13-0 Hakim Lopez in September 2022.

“This is a great opportunity to display my talent to the boxing world,” said Vansiclen, who goes by the nickname “Good Vibes.” “My previous bouts have prepared me for this fight, as we have faced some tough competition. This fight is in line with that. My keys to victory will be to fight hard and smart and let the vibes come out.”

Colombian Olympian Carrillo of Barranquilla, Colombia, is a slick boxer with heavy hands. His last six wins have been by knockout. He is coming off a fourth-round stoppage win against Robert Burwell last February. In 2021, Carrillo captured the WBA Fedecentro light heavyweight title with a third-round stoppage of Reinaldo Gonzalez in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Accumulating a record of 388-23, he was among Colombia’s most decorated amateurs. He advanced to the second round at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. He also won gold medals at the 2012 Colombian National Games, 2012 Pacific Cup Tournament, 2011 Colombian National Championships, 2010 Colombian Youth National Championships, and silver at the 2014 Central American & Caribbean Games. Carrillo comes from a boxing family and, at age nine, followed his father and older brother into the sport.

“This is my chance to prove to everyone watching, as well as my promoter DiBella Entertainment and my management team, Felipe Gomez and Juan Gonzalez, that I am ready to take my career to the next level and beyond,” Carrillo said. “I have been working hard to go all the way to the top. A win against Richard Vansiclen legitimizes my skills as a serious prospect. I want to climb up in the rankings and fight tougher opponents to earn a shot at a title.”

Williams vs. Martin – 10-Round Super Lightweight Bout

The rising undefeated super lightweight prospect Williams, 25, earned a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Yeis Solano in the main event on SHOBOX in January of 2021. In 2019, Williams was featured in Ring Magazine’s “New Faces” column, which highlights the sport’s rising prospects. The former amateur standout earned three Ringside Championships and a Silver Gloves Championship in his home state of Connecticut.

“I am excited to be back fighting on SHOBOX,” Williams said. “I think this is a very good fight for me. It’s definitely a step-up in competition. Ryan Martin has fought tough opposition, so I know he has experience. I want to thank DiBella Entertainment and Salita Promotions for the opportunity. Everything is running smooth in training camp, and I am looking forward to putting on a great performance.”

Martin was 22-0 with 12 knockouts before he lost his first fight in 2018 to former undisputed 140-pound king Josh Taylor in the World Boxing Super Series’ 140-pound tournament. Martin won his next two bouts before bowing to Robert Easter, Jr., a former titleholder, by unanimous decision in February of 2021. A former amateur standout with over 200 fights, the Tennessee, Chattanooga native won the U.S. Under 19 National Championships at 132 pounds in 2010 and the U.S. Junior National Championships in 2009 at 132 and is a 12-time Tennessee State champion.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity to update the boxing world on who I am,” Martin said. “This is do-or-die, and I’ve faced death in the eye already and that isn’t for me. The Blue-Chip Express is on a mission to the top, and we haven’t seen our best yet. There is no such thing as tough, or tougher. It’s just who wants it more.”

International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the blow-by-blow action for SHOBOX with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood joining the team remotely as the unofficial scorer. Former world champion Raul Marquez and veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT co-host Brian Campbell will serve as ringside expert analysts. They will be accompanied by Hall of Famer and SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING analyst Al Bernstein, as well as by Hall of Famer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. handling ring announcing duties. The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 88 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

Boston (February 28, 2020):

Murphys Boxing is proud to announce the full line up for their 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Clash which will take place on Saturday, March 14th once again at the House of Blues in Boston.

Headlining the already near sold out event will be New Haven, Connecticut’s Charles Foster (19-0, 8 KOs). Foster, the current NABA Light Heavyweight Champion will defend his title against Mexico’s Manuel Ceballos (17-2, 11 KOs) in a 10 round bout.

Foster, who has been quietly climbing the ranks while putting on a series of flawless performances on platforms like Showtime and UFC Fight Pass over the past two years, is now ranked #4 in the world by the WBA and ready to fight for a world title in 2020.

“It’s been a childhood dream of mine to reach this level of the sport.”, explains the soft spoken and humble 29 year old southpaw.

“It’s surreal to think that I’m ranked in the Top 5 and in a position to fight for a world title. It does keep me humble and focused though knowing I’m so close. It makes me work that much harder in the gym. I know I need to make a real statement on March 14th to get one of the top tier light heavyweights in the ring with me for a title or for a title eliminator.”

Having appeared on Murphys Boxing’s last St. Patrick’s Day event, Foster is well aware that it isn’t the average boxing card.

“This is my second time fighting on a Murphys Boxing St. Patrick’s Day card. It’s a wild energy from the crowd. Fighting on stage with the audience looking up at you like a concert is amazing. It was easily my favorite venue and event of all my pro fights and I’m really excited to be part of it again.”

In the first of the dual co-main events, it’s a bona fide Irish grudge match when Islandeady, Ireland native and Murphys Boxing’s own Ray Moylette (11-1, 4 KOs) takes on Clones, Ireland’s Larry Fryers (11-2, 4 KOs), who now lives and fights out of New York City.

The two prospects, with their nearly identical records, were scheduled to face each other this past summer but visa issues prevented Moylette from entering the country just days before the fight which created a friction between the two fighters.

Now ‘Sugar’ Ray and ‘Lethal’ Larry, who have each been each adopted by the rival sports cities of Boston and New York, will settle their differences in the ring on St. Patrick’s Day weekend with the New England Lightweight Title on the line in an 8 round bout.

The night’s other co-feature will see the return of Murphys Boxing’s popular Irish heavyweight, Niall Kennedy (13-1-1, 8 KOs).

Kennedy is coming off his first loss this past summer when he was upset by USA Olympian, Devin Vargas in a back and forth brawl. Despite the setback, the big man from Gorey, Ireland will not face a soft touch in his comeback fight as he takes on the heavy handed North Carolina brawler, Don Haynesworth (16-3-1, 14 KOs) in an 8 round bout.

Kennedy, who is a police officer in his hometown, has been become a fan favorite in Boston having fought almost his entire professional career in the New England area including several past appearances at the annual Murphys Boxing holiday event.

The Clash will also feature a sensational undercard of local and international fighters including:

Murphys Boxing’s Carlos Gongora (18-0, 13 KOs), an Ecuadorian Olympian and the #13 ranked middleweight in the world who will face Argentina’s Gonzalo Coria (16-3, 6 KOs) with the WBC Fecarbox Title on the line in a 10 round middleweight bout.

Irish amateur sensation and the jointly promoted Murphys Boxing and DiBella Entertainment fighter, Joe Ward (0-1), whose highly anticipated debut last year ended with a freak knee injury, will return looking for his first professional victory vs Woburn, Massachusetts’ Leandro Silva (2-3, 3 KOs) in a 6 round light heavyweight bout.

Murphys Boxing’s local favorite, Mike Ohan Jr. (9-1, 5 KOs) a second generation professional fighter from Holbrook, Massachusetts will take on Jersey City, New Jersey’s Jordan Rosario (3-10) in a 6 round welterweight contest.

Power punching prospect, Luis Arcon Diaz (10-0, 10 KOs), a Venezuelan Olympian and recent Murphys Boxing signee will face Brazil’s Rodrigo Tatijewski (8-1, 7 KOs) in a 6 round junior welterweight bout.

Last but not least, the night will be kicked off by the east coast debut of Oxnard, California’s, Danny Robles (2-0-1, 2 KOs), who has displayed unnatural power in his first 3 professional fights. ‘The Dawg’ will take on Framingham, Massachusetts’ Jader Alves de Oliveira, an MMA veteran who will be making his professional boxing debut in the 4 round super featherweight contest.

“The St. Patrick’s Day Clash is my favorite promotion of the year and one that our fighters and fans really look forward to.”, explains, Murphys Boxing founder and Dropkick Murphys frontman, Ken Casey.

“The atmosphere that’s created when you put boxing on in a general admission, standing room only concert venue, let alone on St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Boston, creates a unique and intense experience.”

As for the incredibly busy and successful year the promotional company is coming off of, Casey, who will also play 5 consecutive shows with Dropkick Murphys throughout Boston during St. Patrick’s Day week, including an acoustic set in ring on fight night, is even more excited about what the new year holds for Murphys Boxing.

“2020 is just getting started and it’s already been an amazing year for Murphys Boxing. First we had Spike O’Sullivan in the year’s first high profile fight, when he went up in weight to face Jaime Munguia at the Alamodome. Spike made it an exciting war that already has him in line for a title shot back in the junior middleweight division. Then of course just last month, Mark DeLuca, one of our most popular fighters, traveled to Kell Brook’s hometown and put on a gutsy performance in what was a massive event in the UK. That fight earned Mark a lot of new fans and opportunities. In 2020, we’re expecting two of our Top 10 ranked fighters, Charles Foster and Abraham Nova to fight for, and win, world titles and we also plan on putting our undefeated prospects like Carlos Gongora, Luis Arcon Diaz and William Foster III in position to enter the world rankings.”

Murphys Boxing’s 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Clash takes place on Saturday, March 14th in Boston, Massachusetts at the House of Blues (15 Lansdowne Street). Doors open at 7pm. The night will also feature a special “in ring” acoustic performance by Dropkick Murphys and an appearance from Belfast rappers, Kneecap.

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 6 years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features Top 10 world ranked champions like Charles Foster, Abraham Nova and Mark DeLuca, Top 20 world ranked contenders like Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Carlos Gongonra and Greg Vendetti and undefeated prospects like William Foster III, Luis Arcon Diaz and more!

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

Springfield, Massachusetts (August 17th, 2019):

In a special matinee outdoor event at MGM Springfield presented by Murphys Boxing and broadcast live on UFC Fight Pass, Charles Foster (19-0, 9 KOs) defended his NABA Light Heavyweight Championship against Denis Grachev (19-8-1, 10 KOs) winning a 10 round unanimous decision.

Foster, who is currently ranked #8 in the world by the WBA, outboxed the game Russian from the start, using his superior speed and ring generalship to win by scores of 100-90, 97-93 and 97-91.

To Grachev’s credit, he came forward the entire fight looking for an opportunity but he could never land more than one punch at a time and found himself walking into Foster’s combinations.

“I felt good about my performance tonight.”, said the world ranked contender who fights for Murphys Boxing.

“Grachev was durable and strong. He’s been in there with world champions and contenders and I was still able to sweep him with a unanimous decision. Definitely a good learning experience. I got cut in the second round and had to fight the rest of the night with it. I stayed calm under the pressure and I need to experience that type of adversity. Now it’s on to the next one. I want another fighter in the Top 10. I think I’m about two or three fights away from a world title shot.”

In regards to his next opponent, the soft spoken contender who prefers to do his talking in the ring, did mention one name he would love to share the ring with next.

“It’s up to my promoter, Murphys Boxing, my manager and my coach in regards to who I fight next but if I had my pick I would want to fight Jean Pascal. He looked great winning the WBA Interim Championship in a big upset and I’m ranked #8 in the world by the WBA and have the NABA title. I think it would make for a great fight between a former world champ and an undefeated contender. The winner would definitely be deserving of a world title shot.”

In additional action on the card…

In a shocking upset, former USA Olympian, Devin Vargas (21-5, 9 KOs) handed popular Irish heavyweight prospect, Niall Kennedy (13-1-1, 8 KOs) his first professional defeat by TKO in the 5th round of a scheduled 10 round bout.

Kennedy started strong, hurting Vargas in the third round but the crafty veteran began timing the undefeated prospect with surprisingly fast combinations. Continually beating Kennedy to the punch, the 37 year old showed flashes of the speed and ring generalship that once made him captain of the 2004 United States Olympic Boxing Team. After hurting and cornering Kennedy late in the 5th round, Vargas unleashed a barrage of punches that snapped the Irishman’s head back multiple times forcing the referee to stop the contest with only two seconds remaining in the round.

Kennedy, who has amassed an impressive following in the Massachusetts area and was on the verge of a world ranking, was naturally disappointed but still gracious and classy in defeat giving all credit to Vargas who in turn showed mutual respect to his opponent.

It was a show stealing, action packed heavyweight battle and it now leaves Vargas, a father of 5 who works full time at a Toledo, Ohio jeep manufacturing plant and also works as a high school football coach, suddenly back in the mix in the red hot division.

Springfield’s own Anthony Velazquez (7-0, 7 KOs) stopped Philadelphia’s Vincent Floyd (4-8-1, 2 KOs) 58 seconds into the 4th round of a 6 round welterweight bout. Floyd, who was giving the flashy young power puncher his toughest test to date, rightfully complained about a quick stoppage after a flurry from Velazquez brought the contest to a sudden end. The tough as nails Philly fighter, while down on the cards, didn’t even seem in trouble let alone hurt, but the crowd was in a frenzy and it may have influenced the hasty stoppage. Regardless with his combination of speed and power, Velazquez is without a doubt one of New England’s most promising young fighters.

Back from one of the shorter retirements in recent memory, world title challenger and New England fan favorite, Shelly Vincent (26-2, 1 KO) returned to the ring to win a unanimous decision over Karen Dulin (3-20-1, 1 KO) in a 6 round featherweight bout. ‘Shelito’s Way’ dedicated the fight to her first trainer who recently passed away and hinted at retirement again but said the right fight could bring her back to the ring.

Elvis Figueroa (7-0, 4 KOs) who trains alongside Charles Foster in New Haven made incredibly short work of Argentina’s Marcelo Molina (23-16-1, 19 KOs) overwhelming and stopping him in the 1st round of a 6 round super middleweight bout.

Albany, New York’s Ray Jay Bermudez (8-0, 5 KOs) won a unanimous, but very close, decision against Quincy, Florida’s Leonardo Kenon (3-7, 1 KO) in a back and forth 4 round junior welterweight bout.

Derrick Whitley Jr. (6-1-1) of Springfield’s famed fighting Whitley family won a unanimous decision over Massachusetts veteran Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-29-4, 3 KOs) in a 6 round welterweight bout.

Springfield’s Josh Orta (5-0, 2 KOs) won a unanimous decision over Argentina’s Matias Arriagada (6-7, 3 KOs) in a well matched 4 round junior welterweight bout.

In the opener, Springfield’s Rollin Whitley (1-0) made his long awaited professional debut winning a unanimous decision over Florida first timer, Ayron Palmer (0-1). Whitley pumped up the partisan crowd by coming out to the ring to the theme song from the classic tv western, Rawhide before dropping Palmer in the 1st round on way to a 4 round unanimous decision in a competitive fight in the junior welterweight division.

UFC FIGHT PASS LINE UP

Charles Foster 173.8 (18-0, 9 KOs) vs. Denis Grachev 174 (19-7-1, 10 KOs)
10 Rounds – NABA Light Heavyweight Championship
Niall Kennedy 222.6 (13-0-1, 8 KOs) vs. Devin Vargas 219.6 (20-5, 8 KOs)
10 Rounds Heavyweights
Anthony Velazquez 149.8 (6-0, 6 KOs) vs. Vincent Floyd 151.8 (4-7-1, 2 KOs)
6 Rounds Welterweights
FACEBOOK LINE UP

Shelly Vincent 125.8 (25-2, 1 KO) vs. Karen Dulin 124.4 (3-19-1, 1 KO)
8 Rounds Featherweights
Ray Jay Bermudez 140 (7-0, 5 KOs) vs. Leonardo Kenon 136.2 (3-6, 1 KO)
4 Rounds Junior Welterweights
Elvis Figueroa 167 (6-0, 3 KOs) vs. Marcelo Molina 166.2 (23-16-1, 19 KOs)
4 Rounds Super Middleweights

Derrick Whitley Jr. 148.4 (5-1-1) vs. Antonio Fernandez 148.6 (9-28-4, 3 KOs)
6 Rounds Welterweights

Josh Orta 127.8 (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Matias Arriagada 124.4 (6-6, 3 KOs)
4 Rounds Junior Lightweights

Rollin Whitley 141.2 (0-0) vs. Ayron Palmer 137.4 (0-0)
4 Rounds Junior Welterweights

?Foster vs. Grachev for the NABA Light Heavyweight Championship takes place tomorrow afternoon – Saturday, August 17th in Springfield, Massachusetts at MGM Springfield. Doors open at 1pm for the special outdoor matinee event. Limited tickets remain at www.murphysboxing.com.

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Carlos Gongora, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Greg Vendetti and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, William Foster III, Luis Arcon and more! For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

SPRINGFIELD, MA – Murphys Boxing is proud to announce their return to UFC FIGHT PASS^®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, on Saturday, August 17^th, for a special outdoor matinee event live from MGM Springfield. The main card will stream live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS beginning at 4 P.M. ET / 1 P.M. PT.

In the main event, NABA Light Heavyweight Champion, Charles Foster (18-0, 9 KOs) will defend his title for the fourth time in a 10-round bout against Russian power puncher Denis Grachev (19-7-1, 10 KOs).

Foster, who hails from nearby New Haven, Connecticut is ranked #8 in the world bythe WBA and is coming off an impressive stoppage victory over Chicago’s once-beaten Mike Jiminez this past March.

Grachev, known as ‘Drago’s Son’, is currently on a 3-fight win streak in 2019, and an upset win over Foster would immediately land the Russian back into the world rankings.

“I’m excited to be in the main event on UFC FIGHT PASS,” explains Foster, the confident southpaw who goes by the nickname, ‘The Truth.’ “I truly feel I am ready to take on anyone in the Top 10. I want to be in position for a shot at a world title next year. This Saturday, I intend to make a statement to the rest of the light heavyweight division by defending my title and stopping Grachev.”

In the 10-round co-main event, one of Murphys Boxing’s most popular fighters, Irish heavyweight sensation Niall Kennedy (13-0-1, 8 KOs), will face one of his toughest tests to date, as he will take on former U.S. Olympic Boxer Devin Vargas (20-5, 8 KOs) in a crossroads battle that will put the winner in line for a major opportunity in the red-hot division.

Kennedy, who also serves as a police officer in his hometown of Gorey, Ireland, has amassed a sizable Massachusetts based following having fought virtually all of his professional fights in New England and winning the state’s heavyweight title in the process.

“I’m excited to be fighting at MGM Springfield live on UFC FIGHT PASS. It’s my first time in that area [of Massachusetts] and what an event to be on, getting to share the bill with the talented Charles Foster,” says the humble heavyweight.

“My opponent is a former Olympian who has mixed with the top table and who I am sure will bring the best out of me. Training is going exceptionally well. I’m going to put every ounce of blood and sweat into making my little boy, MJ, and my wife proud. This is the year where I want to get myself in the top 20 and in massive fights. For that to happen, I need to perform this Saturday.”

“Our first fight at MGM Springfield in May, which was also our UFC FIGHT PASS debut, was an amazing night and a total success,” explains Ken Casey, founder of Murphys Boxing. “For our return to MGM Springfield and UFC FIGHT PASS, we wanted to take it to another level. We think having a top 10 world-ranked fighter like Charles Foster make a title defense in his backyard, adding Niall Kennedy in a high stakes heavyweight showdown, and then making it an outdoor matinee show, accomplishes that goal. We can’t wait to be back on UFC FIGHT PASS this weekend.”

Murphys Boxing presents Foster vs. Grachev live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS this Saturday, August 17th at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Doors open at 1 p.m. and the first bout starts at 2 p.m. Tickets on sale now at www.murhpysboxing.com. The undercard will stream live on Facebook.com/DropKickMurphys.

The main card will exclusively stream on UFC FIGHT PASS at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT.

To sign up now, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS^®

UFC FIGHT PASS^® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, Fight Pass is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. Fight Pass provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC Fight Pass Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. Fight Pass subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access Fight Pass on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs.

For more information visit: www.ufcfightpass.com

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Greg Vendetti and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, William Foster III, Luis Arcon Diaz and more.

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

pringfield, Massachusetts (July 16, 2019):

Murphys Boxing is proud to announce their return to MGM Springfield for a special outdoor matinee event on Saturday, August 17, 2019 that will be broadcast live on UFC Fight Pass.

In the main event, NABA Light Heavyweight Champion, Charles Foster (18-0, 9 KOs) will defend his title for the fourth time in a 10 round bout against Russian power puncher, Denis Grachev (19-7-1, 10 KOs).

Foster, who hails from nearby New Haven, Connecticut is ranked #10 in the world by the WBA and is coming off an impressive stoppage victory over Chicago’s once beaten, Mike Jiminez this past March.

Grachev known as ‘Drago’s Son’, is currently on a 3 fight win streak in 2019 and an upset win over Foster would immediately land the Russian back into the world rankings.

“I’m excited to be in the main event at an amazing venue like MGM Springfield.”, explains Foster, the confident southpaw who goes by the nickname, ‘The Truth’.

“I truly feel I am ready to take on anyone in the Top 10. I want to be in position for a shot at a world title next year. On August 17th, I intend to make a statement to the rest of the light heavyweight division by defending my title and stopping Grachev.”

In the 10 round co-main event one of Murphys Boxing’s most popular fighters, Irish heavyweight sensation, Niall Kennedy (13-0-1, 8 KOs) will face one of his toughest tests to date, 2014 USA Olympian, Devin Vargas (20-5, 8 KOs) in a crossroads battle that will put the winner in line for a major opportunity in the red hot division.

‘Boom Boom’ who also serves as a police officer in his hometown of Gorey, Ireland has amassed a sizable Massachusetts based following having fought virtually all of his professional fights in New England winning the state’s heavyweight title in the process.

“I’m excited to be fighting at MGM Springfield. It’s my first time in that area [of Massachusetts] and what an event to be on, getting to share the bill with the talented Charles Foster.”, says the humble heavyweight.

“We are hoping it [the fight] will be for a world ranking and my opponent, I believe, is a former Olympian who has mixed with the top table and who I am sure will bring the best out of me. Training is going exceptionally well. I’m going to put every ounce of blood and sweat into making my little boy, MJ and my wife proud. I am honored and blessed to have Ken and Packie guiding my career and at 35, this is the year where I want to get myself into the top 20 and into massive fights and for that to happen I need to perform on August 17th.”

The undercard will feature several local fighters including:

Shelly Vincent (25-2, 1 KO), the pride of Providence, and a former world title challenger, will make her return in an 8 round featherweight bout against an opponent to be named.

Anthony Velazquez (7-0, 7 KOs), one of the most popular fighters in Springfield, will appear in a 6 round welterweight bout against an opponent to be named.

Derrick Whitley Jr. (5-1-1), who comes from Springfield’s famed fighting Whitley family, will face an opponent to be named in a 6 round welterweight bout.

Ray Jay Bermudez (7-0, 5 KOs) who hails from nearby Albany, New York, will appear in a 6 round super lightweight bout.

Two more additional fights will be announced shortly.

“Our first fight at MGM Springfield in May, which was also our UFC Fight Pass debut, was an amazing night and a total success.”, explains Ken Casey, founder of Murphys Boxing.

“For our return to MGM Springfield we wanted to take it to another level. Having a top 10 world ranked fighter like Charles Foster make a title defense in his backyard, adding Niall Kennedy in a high stakes heavyweight showdown and then making it an outdoor matinee show, we think accomplishes that goal. We can’t wait to be back at MGM Springfield on August 17th.”

Murphys Boxing presents Foster vs. Grachev on Saturday, May 17th at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts (1 MGM Way, Springfield, MA. 01103). Doors open at 1pm and the first fight starts at 2pm. Tickets are priced at $45, $75, $100 and $125 go on sale this Friday, July 19th at: www.murphysboxing.com and www.mgmspringfield/entertainment. The entire event will stream live on UFC Fight Pass at www.ufc.tv.

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Greg Vendetti and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, William Foster III, Luis Arcon Diaz and more.

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

ABOUT MGM SPRINGFIELD

MGM Springfield covers three city blocks in the heart of downtown Springfield, Mass. Igniting a cultural and economic renaissance in a historic New England city, the resort, which combines new construction with revived historic buildings, offers more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 250-room boutique hotel on Main Street, superior spa services, diverse retail and inspired dining headlined by award-winning Chef Michael Mina’s Cal Mare. MGM Springfield also features the seven-screen Regal luxury cinema complex, bowling lanes, a seasonal skating rink and outdoor marketplace displaying local art, events and talent. MGM Springfield opened on August 24, 2018.

For more information visit: www.mgmspringfield.com

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS

UFC Fight Pass is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, Fight Pass is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. Fight Pass provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC Fight Pass Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. Fight Pass subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access Fight Pass on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs.

For more information visit: www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass