LAS VEGAS (March 31, 2021) – Former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) is on the hunt and his targets are undefeated Russians, Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, respectively, the reigning WBC/IBF and WBA Super light heavyweight World champions.

The 29-year-old Ramirez, who recently signed an exclusive promotional contract with Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions, is currently ranked No. 4 and No. 5, respectively, by the WBA and WBO.

Ramirez was unimpressed by Beterbiev’s recent fight and he wonders where Bivol has been the past 1 ½ years, because he hasn’t been in the ring.

In his first fight in 519 days (Oct. 12, 2019), Beterbiev showed signs of rust and possibly age (36) during his 10th round technical knockout of his relatively unknown German opponent, Adam Deines (19-2-1, 10 KOs). Now, Beterbiev is talking about next fighting the winner of the April 10th Joe Smith, Jr. (26-3, 21 KOs) versus Maxim Vlasov (45-3, 26 KOs) on April 10th for the vacant WBO 175-pound division title. Vlasov, incidentally, was defeated by Ramirez via a 10-round unanimous decision in 2015.

“I expected a lot more from him (Beterbiev),” Ramirez talked about Beterbiev’s fight with Deines. “I thought he looked flat and dull for the majority of the fight. It’s nice of him to temporarily hold my belts, but he should know that I’m coming for all the hardware and will bring the titles back to my people in Mexico.”

Bivol hasn’t thrown a punch during a fight in 17 months, since winning a 12-round unanimous decision against Lenin Castillo. Instead of returning against a “name” fighter in defense of his WBA Super title, Bivol will be returning May 1st in London against somebody named Craig “Spider” Richards 16-1-1, 9 KOs), the WBA No. 8-rated light heavyweight who has never fought outside the United Kingdom.

“I’ve always said Dmitry Bivol was the toughest challenge out there,” Ramirez added, “which is why I want to make this fight happen. I know he’s got a fight coming up and hopefully he stays undefeated so we can make the mega-fight this summer.”

“Zurdo” is on the hunt!

INFORMATION:
Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com
Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions
Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

About Zurdo Promotions:

Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event promoter with HQ in the United States and Mexico. Led by the undefeated World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

Derek Chisora and Joseph Parker will collide in a huge Heavyweight clash on a blockbuster night of action that sees Irish star Katie Taylor defend her Undisputed Lightweight crown against former amateur rival Natasha Jonas and undefeated WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol put his Title on the line against Craig Richards, as well as the return of Chris Eubank Jr, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all markets excluding the UK, Ireland, China, New Zealand and Samoa.

Former World Title challenger Chisora (32-10, 23 KOs) was last seen pushing Ukraine’s pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk all of the way in their 12-round battle for the WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title at The SSE Arena, Wembley last October, and the fan favourite is chomping at the bit for his next challenge.

A meeting between the pair scheduled for October 2019 fell through at three-and-a-half weeks’ notice when Parker’s team revealed he was suffering from the aftereffects of a spider bite. Chisora, who was unconvinced with Team Parker’s reasons for pulling out in 2019, has labelled Parker a ‘chicken’ in recent weeks and says he has unfinished business with the Heavyweight contender. 

Former WBO World Champion Parker (28-2, 21 KOs) is fresh off a hard-fought 12-round decision over long-time amateur nemesis Junior Fa at Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand last month that settled an 11-year old rivalry with his compatriot, a win that he hopes will kickstart his route back to the top of the Heavyweight division. 

Ranked at No.3 with the WBO, New Zealand’s Parker is well known on these shores having defended his WBO Title against Hughie Fury at Manchester Arena in September 2017, before taking unified ruler Anthony Joshua the distance at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff in March 2018. His last appearance in the UK came against Dillian Whyte in a dramatic points loss in July 2018.

“We’ve been here before, in 2019 I flew to Vegas to film the ‘Face To Face’ with Parker, I called Haye as soon as I left and told him, ‘This guy isn’t going to get in the ring with me’, I could see the fear in his eyes,” said Chisora. “Now, second time around I hope he fights, I’m looking forward to the fight, I cannot wait to get back in the ring! I love fighting, it is what I love the most. Good luck to Joseph Parker and his new team, we shall see you for WAR on May 1^st!”

“I’m excited to start this new chapter in my career with a new coach and some fresh ideas,” said Parker. “I’ve settled in and Andy and I are bonding well. Chisora and I have unfinished business and inside the ring one of us will get the job done. I am well aware that a win on British soil and on world-wide television will put me in pole position whereas a loss will be catastrophic.  I am more than up for the challenge. Bring it on Del Boy.”

Taylor (17-0, 6 KOs) defeated Jonas (9-1-1, 7 KOs) in the quarter-final stages of the London 2012 Olympic Games on route to capturing Ireland’s first gold medal of the summer. The pair will meet again nearly ten years down the line with Taylor’s WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles on the line. 

Since their first meeting in the amateurs, Taylor has gone on to cement herself as the best female fighter on the planet by winning World Titles in the Lightweight and Super-Lightweight divisions and remaining undefeated in all 17 of her professional contests. ‘KT’ was last seen outclassing her WBA Mandatory Challenger Miriam Gutierrez with a masterful display in November. 

‘Miss GB’ came agonisingly close to winning her first World Title at the age of 36 last summer when she battled to a thrilling draw with WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight Champion Terri Harper at Matchroom Fight Camp. It was the first time that two British women had competed against each other for a Word Title, and the all-action fight more than lived up to the occasion. 

“Natasha proved in her last fight that she is still performing at the highest level so it’s a great challenge for me and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Taylor. “It’s a fight that people have been asking for and those are the type of fights you want to be part of.

“People still talk about our fight in the 2012 Olympics and I think that proved to be a real eye opener for people in terms of what women’s boxing is all about. I’m expecting another tough fight on May 1^st and I’m looking forward to successfully defending my Titles.”

“I’m really excited about getting the fight, I made a lot of noise about not wanting to go down in level or class after establishing myself on the world stage in my last fight,” said Jonas. “I know Katie is a different type of animal to Terri Harper, but I believe every time I’m asked to step up, I do. I said I wanted to be a champion and anybody at 130 to 140 was in my sights, I know I’m a world class boxer and I can win a World Title. 

“From the minute Eddie signed me this fight has been on the cards. Me and Katie had a great story from the Olympics, and we have both been pioneers in our own way. I’m glad that it’s happening and it’s a great fight for women’s boxing and for British and Irish boxing.”

Russia’s Bivol (17-0, 11 KOs) is regarded as one of the best technical boxers in the sport, mixing his dazzling skills with KO power. The 30-year-old was elevated to full WBA 175lbs World Champion from interim champion ahead of his 12th pro fight with Trent Broadhurst in Monte Carlo in November 2017 and celebrated with a devasting one-punch KO in the first round.  Bivol has subsequently defended his crown five times, but has been away from the ring since October 2019 when he widely outpointed Lenin Castillo at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

Richards (16-1-1, 9 KOs) delivered a Fight of the Year contender last time out in December against fierce rival Shakan Pitters as he stopped the Birmingham man in nine rounds to earn the British Light-Heavyweight crown. ‘Spider’ is ranked at No.8 in the WBA world rankings and has earned his shot by remaining undefeated since sole career loss against former World Title challenger Frank Buglioni in October 2017.

“I have been out of the ring for a year and a half and I have sorely missed boxing,” said Bivol. “I can’t wait to step through the ropes for my next fight on May 1^st. I have always wanted to fight in the UK and I’m happy to tick that box. Craig Richards is a fast and technical boxer and I’m expecting a great fight as I make another defence of my World Title.”

“I feel good and I feel very confident,” said Richards. “I know that he’s renowned as one of the best fighters out there, but I just believe that I’ve got the tools to beat him and I’m very confident in my abilities. I know I’ve got power as well, and I’ve got a very good chin. We’ve been planning for everything and anything.

“We know he’s been operating at world level for a long time and can bring different things to the table. I raise the level of my performance against my better opponents. The bigger the fight the better I perform. A fight like Bivol will allow me to go through my gears to show what I’m really about.”

Having previously campaigned at Super-Middleweight, Eubank Jr (29-2, 22 KOs) returned to the Middleweight division to claim the WBA Interim Middleweight World Title for the second time with a TKO win over former World Title challenger in December 2019, while making his US debut at the Barclays Centre in New York. In what will be his first fight back in the UK in over two years, the Brighton man faces Manchester’s Marcus Morrison (23-3, 16 KOs), who is enjoying a seven-fight winning streak that stretches back to June 2018.

“This is a good fight for me,” said Eubank Jr.  “Since signing with Sauerland my camp has been firing on all cylinders, I’ve been training with Roy in Miami and focussing on improving my game. I have the absolute best people around me, I have everything I need to push on to that next level and dominate the Middleweight scene.

“People have a lot to say about me and my career. There’s talks about why fights haven’t happened previously, but all I’ve been doing is focussing on number one, training hard and making sure I’m always ready. I’m now in the best place I can be and I’m ready to take what is mine.”

“I’m well aware that this is a massive opportunity and fight for me and my career,” said Morrison. “I got into boxing at the age of 7, and these are the type of fights I’ve always wanted to be involved in. Chris is a very good fighter, and I know what he brings to the table. I honestly believe the best version of me is still to be seen, and I look forward to showing it on the night. I can’t afford to not leave everything in there on May 1.”

“This is one of the strongest shows we’ve promoted and there is still even more to come,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Chisora vs. Parker is a brilliant style match up that has been brewing for years and Taylor vs. Jonas is one of the biggest fights in women’s boxing. The Eubanks are always box office and it’s a massive chance for Marcus Morrison after his brilliant win in Italy. Craig Richards goes for World Title glory against the brilliant Russian Dmitry Bivol and there are further announcements to follow. Buckle up and enjoy this one!”

“WAR Chisora realises this is a massive opportunity to gate-crash the Heavyweight division,” said David Haye of Hayemaker Promotions. “He has come close, in his last battle against unified Cruiserweight World Champion and No.1 ranked Heavyweight Usyk, two of the judges’ score cards had it 7 rounds to 5 –  winning just one more round would have captured a draw and Derek would have retained his WBO International Title that night. Since, he has been working, living the life of a professional. Derek doesn’t simply want to beat Joseph Parker, he wants to make a statement to the world. This is his time.”

“There’s definitely unfinished business between Parker and Chisora,” said David Higgins, Founder and Director of DUCO Events. “I think the fight will be a real fan pleaser. It could be the Heavyweight Fight of the Year. You’ve got Chisora who likes to stand and trade and come forward, and then you’ve got Parker who has the speed and the pedigree. This fight has got a bit of history and it has been building for a while. It’s fantastic that it’s finally happening. This is a proper 50-50 matchup where the winner could go on to a World Title shot and the loser will go to the scrapheap. Credit to both Parker and Chisora for putting it all on the line.”

Dmitry Bivol says that he is willing to drop down to Super-Middleweight to face World champion Callum Smith and become a two-weight World champion as he plots his future in the latest episode of Matchroom Boxing’s Podcast ‘The Lockdown Tapes’.
THE LOCKDOWN TAPES WITH DMITRY BIVOL IS ALSO ON MATCHROOM BOXING’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL NOW!
Bivol (17-0 11 KOs) has held the WBA Light-Heavyweight crown for over two and a half years with six successful defenses over that time, and the Russian ace has been chasing a major showdown with the likes of fellow countryman and champion Artur Beterbiev. 

The 29 year old’s appetite for a crunch clash has also caused his eyes to look to the 168lbs division too, where an old amateur foe Callum Smith holds the WBA and Ring Magazine belts, and one of boxing’s elite draws, Canelo Alvarez, has also operated recently.

Bivol’s preference is to remain at 175lbs and unify the division first, but he’s put the Super-Middleweight division on red alert by asserting that he could make the weight with ease. 

“I watch a lot of fights in my division,” said Bivol. “I know that Beterbiev is one of the more dangerous fighters because he is really strong. If I were to fight Beterbiev I would like it to be in the USA because more people can see this fight than if I fight in Russia. 

“Canelo at Super-Middleweight is a big fight but everyone wants to fight him. He is just a man, he is just a boxer. You can earn money with him and it is a good opportunity to show your boxing skills to the whole world because of his massive fan base. 

“I would prefer the fight at 175lbs as it’s my weight but I could move down to 168lbs, that’s not a big problem for me. I had breakfast before my last fight on weigh-in day and think I have the reserves to come down.

“I boxed Callum Smith in Hungary as an amateur and to be honest I don’t remember this fight at all! At the time, he was just a tall guy, with good skills from Great Britain and I had to beat him. I think in the pro’s if we were to fight now it would be great for the British and Russian fans. It is a good fight for boxing because he is a champion at 168lbs and I am a champion at 175lbs. I want to fight the best in the world and he is now one of the best.”

Fans can find Bivol’s episode plus previous episodes with, Joshua Buatsi, Devin Haney, Demetrius Andrade, Joseph Parker, Josh Warrington, Daniel Jacobs, Joe Cordina and Liam Smith here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-matchroom-boxing-podcast/id1506174562

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5YRAWQS5JXB0OvM8vCqZxq

Matchroom Website: https://www.matchroomboxing.com/lockdown-tapes-podcast/

Los Angeles, CA (April 7, 2020) WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol, (17-0, 11 KOs), has once again called for the opportunity to drop one weight class and battle ‘Pound-for-Pound’ and Super Middleweight World Champion Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, (53-1-2, 38 KOs), emphasizing that he is ready to fight on the first available date when boxing returns.  

“I’ve said now for over a year that I’m ready, willing and able to move down to super middleweight and fight Canelo,” said Bivol. “I have been training throughout the COVID-19 crisis and have watched on social media that Canelo has as well.”

“I know that my team and Golden Boy Promotions have discussed this option and we are willing to make the fight on very reasonable financial terms. My team understands that unlike many other opponents my goal is not the payday but to face the best in boxing today. I know I can beat him and the real rewards will come after this fight.”

Said manager Vadim Bivol, “We are willing to work out a much more reasonable deal than what was paid to Canelo’s recent opponents to make this fight. For Dmitry it’s more about the opportunity to dethrone one of the very best fighters in the world.”

“I have heard that DAZN and all other parties involved are supportive of this fight, but whenever the name is brought up to Canelo, he says he would never do it, however I don’t know how much truth there is to this. It would be great to know if he is ready to fight other top champions in his division that are on the same network and are ready to make a simple and appropriate deal as there are not that many of them. I strongly believe that Dmitry Bivol at Super Middleweight is the toughest test for Canelo.”

Continued Andrei Ryabinsky, head of World of Boxing, “Dmitry wants to fight the best and Canelo is all the way at the top of that list right now.  This fight will have to happen sooner or later, the fans want to see a fight where Canelo will really be tested.”

The 29-year-old Bivol won the WBA Light Heavyweight World Title in April of 2017 and has made six successful defenses. In the past two years he excelled in two dominant 12-round unanimous decisions over Jean Pascal and Joe Smith Jr., that were telecast on HBO and DAZN, respectively in the United States. Both Pascal and Smith racked up victories against top contenders Marcus Brown, Badou Jack, and Jesse Hart after fighting Bivol, however they struggled to win even one round against the light heavyweight champion. Bivol is co-promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Main Events in the USA.

Former undisputed cruiserweight champion Oleksandr Usyk moved up to heavyweight with a stoppage over Chazz Witherspoon after round seven of their scheduled 12-round bout at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

Usyk dominated the bout with quick combinations that tired out Witherspoon, who took the bout on five days notice. Witherspoon started to redden around his face and although he tried, he was outgunned and his corner pulled the plug on the bout.

Uysk, 215 lbs of Kiev, Ukraine is now 17-0 with 13 knockouts. Witherspoon is now 38-4.

Dmitry Bivol retained the WBA Light Heavyweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Lenin Castillo.

In round six, Bivol landed a sharp right that dropped Castillo.

Bivol was systematic and won just about every round as the scores read 120-107 and 119-108 twice.

Bivol, 174.3 lbs of St. Petersburg, RUS is 17-0. Castillo, 175 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 20-3-1.

Jessica McCaskill retained the WBA/WBC Super Lightweight title with a 10-round majority decision over the woman she won the titles from in Erica Farias.

The fight was very sloppy with a lot of holding, mostly from Farias.

Farias was deducted a point in round four for holding.

McCaskill was deducted a point in round six for hitting behind the head.

McCaskill, 138.7 lbs of Chicago won by scores of 97-91, 96-92 and 94-94 to raise her mark to 8-2. Farias, 138.1 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 26-4.

Arthur Biyarslanov won a six-round unanimous decision over Tyrome Jones in a super lightweight battle.

In round five, Biyarslanov was bleeding from over his right eye, but landed more, and won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 to raise his mark to 5-0. Jones is 4-6-1.

Anthony Sims Jr. remained perfect by stopping Morgan Fitch in round six of their scheduled 10-round super middleweight fight.

In the opening minute, Sims put Fitch down with a big right. Sims followed that up with a vicious flurry that resulted in a 2nd knockdown.

In round six, Sims landed a perfect counter right hand that buckled Fitch and was ruled a knockdown. Sims then jumped on Fitch and landed a hard four-punch flurry and the bout was stopped at 2:18.

Sims Jr., 168.5 lbs of Plainfield, IN is 20-0 with 18 knockouts, Fitch, 167.5 lbs of Pittsburgh, PA is 19-4-1.

Charles Conwell scored a vicious 10th round stoppage over Patrick Day in a junior middleweight bout.

In round four, Conwell landed a right hand that knocked Day down.

In round eight, it was a harder right hand that sent Day to the canvas. In round nine, Conwell was cut above the right eye. In round 10, Conwell landed a hard right-left combination that sent Day crashing to the canvas. The head of Day bounced hard off the deck, and he was down for several minutes. Day was taken out of the ring on a stretcher.

The time of the finish was at 1:46.

Conwell, 153.8 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 11-0 with eight knockouts. Day, 153.7 lbs of Freeport, NY is 17-4-1.

Otha Jones III won a four-round majority decision over Eric Manriquez in a super featherweight bout.

Jones, 129 lbs of Toledo, OH is 4-0. Manriquez, 130 lbs of Houston, TX is 7-9-1.

Former world champion TJ Doheny stopped Jesus Martinez at the end of round five of a scheduled eight-round super bantamweight fight.

In round one, Doheny landed a hard left that drove Martinez into the ropes that was rightfully ruled a knockdown. Doheny dominated the action and hurt Martinez on several occasions and the fight was stopped between rounds five and six,

Doheny, 124 lbs of Bondi Junction, AUS is now 24-1 with 16 knockouts. Martinez, 124 lbs of Monteria, COL 26-10.

Dmitry Bivol will defend his WBA World Light-Heavyweight title against Lenin Castillo at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago on Saturday October 12, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM $40 HERE Bivol (16-0 11 KOs) defends the strap for the sixth time in the Windy City, returning to the ring following a successful defense of the belt in upstate New York in March where the Russian saw off the spirited challenge of Joe Smith Jr.

The 28 year old Bivol harbors ambitions to unify the division but will need to be at his best to stave off Dominican challenger Castillo (20-1 15 KOs) who has stopped 15 of his 20 victims, the last of which was in March when he defended his WBO Latino title on hometurf in Santo Domingo and stopped Reinaldo Gonzalez in the fifth.

“I am happy that the fight is done and the opponent is confirmed for October 12,” said Bivol. “Castillo is a good opponent, he fought Marcus Brown before, it was a good fight. I can’t wait and hope that we can make a very exciting performance for the fans!”

“First of all I want to thank Matchroom Boxing USA, Eddie Hearn, Spartan Boxing, Raul Pastrana and the WBA for this opportunity,” said Castillo.

“It’s a dream come true! I consider Dmitriy Bivol in the top 20 on the Pound for Pound list but I know that a have the tools to upset him. I been training very hard. On October 12 you will see the best version of Lenin Castillo. I will take the title to the Dominican Republic!”

“Dmitry will defend his title again on October 12 in Chicago!” said World of Boxing’s Andrei Ryabinskiy. “This year we were not able to organize a unification fight for Dmitry, but we’re looking forward to bigger things next year!”

“We are looking forward to another great performance by Dmitry on October 12th,” said Bivol’s manager Vadim Kornilov. “Castillo is a tough opponent and it’s another opportunity for Dmitry to build his reputation as one of the most avoided boxers in the division!”

Bivol’s clash with Castillo is part of a huge night of action in Chicago topped by the Heavyweight debut of pound for pound star Oleksandr Usyk against unbeaten contender Tyrone Spong and there’s more World title action on the card as Chicago’s Jessica McCaskill defends her WBA and WBC World Super-Lightweight titles against old foe Erica Farias.

Unbeaten Super-Middleweight talent Anthony Sims Jr returns to action against Morgan Fitch, Charles Conwell defends his USBA Super-Welterweight title against Patrick Day, an all-Chicago Super-Featherweight clash between Josh Hernandez and Giovanni Mioletti and a fourth pro outing for rising starlet Otha Jones III.

Tickets are on sale now for Usyk vs. Spong starting at just $40 plus booking fees at: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/070057139FF02C5D.

Los Angeles CA (July 10, 2019) Returning to Los Angeles to commence training last week, WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion, Dmitry Bivol, (16-0-0, 11 KOs), is seeking the toughest challenges and the biggest fights next for his career. The 28-year-old native of St. Petersburg, Russia, fighting out of Los Angeles, CA has made five successful defenses of his world title since becoming world champion in 2017.

“It’s time for me to unify at light heavyweight or fight one of the world champions at super middleweight, “said Bivol. “I’ve received many accolades from the international media and fans but most important for me is proving it in the ring that I am the best light heavyweight in the world.”

“My team has had discussions with representatives with all the other belt holders at light heavyweight; Sergey Kovalev, Artur Beterbiev and Oleksandr Gvozdyk and there has been no response for these title unification fights that the fans want to see. We’re all very good fighters, let’s prove to the fans which one is best!”

“I have also said that I am interested in fighting Callum Smith and Gilberto Ramirez at 168lbs., but never heard any response.  I can make super middleweight and would love the opportunity to fight for a world title in that division. If Canelo Alvarez wants a true challenge on September 14 he can look no further and fight me at the super middleweight limit or light heavyweight. I am much more motivated by a challenge in fighting the best than material terms.”

Bivol is coming off an outstanding 12-round decision victory over Joe Smith Jr. on March 9, 2019.

Stated Vadim Kornilov, “Dmitry is ready to fight anyone at light heavyweight or super middleweight. Not too many people ever mention fighting Dmitry, those that have didn’t actually want the fight when we tried to start negotiations. We’ve also heard there may be a tournament for the four title holders and we’re very interested in that. It would be a very competitive tournament.”

“Dmitry Bivol vs. Marcus Browne was the mandated fight for the world title but Browne’s team asked for an exception and he decided to first see if he can keep up with a fighter that Dmitry has already beaten. Dmitry is all about legacy, he doesn’t worry about anything as much as he does about leaving a major footprint in the history of the sport”

Verona, New York:On Saturday night, WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol (15-0, 11 KOs), the young and crafty Russian, looks to keep momentum alive as he battles the big power-puncher Joe Smith, Jr. (24-2, 20 KOs) in Smith’s backyard at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY and streaming live on DAZN. The scouting report for this exciting match-up is below:

Category
Dmitry Bivol
Joe Smith Jr.
Age
28
29
Record
15-0-0 (11 KOs)
24-2-0 (20 KOs)
Strength
Dmitry is incredibly elusive in the ring, he has a granite chin and solid power in his shots. He gained a vast amount of experience in his recent title defense over former champion Jean Pascal.
Joe Smith has incredible heart and an iron chin. He has knockout power in both hands and has earned stoppage wins over former champions Bernard Hopkins and Andrzej Fonfara.
Weakness
Bivol is coming into this match lacking the professional experience that his opponent possesses.
Smith has been inactive as of late, only competing twice in the previous two years.
Experience
Although he lacks the professional experience in comparison to his opponent, he is establishing himself as a force in the light heavyweight division.
Smith has been fighting at the professional level for about 10 years, while also earning notable wins along the way.
Power
Bivol has a powerful jab and vicious right hand. He is guilty in handing the always-durable Sullivan Barrera his first stoppage loss just one year ago.
His power may be his biggest strength, he has heavy hands and throws with bad intentions. He handed the future hall-of-famer Bernard Hopkins his only career stoppage loss in 2016 when he knocked Hopkins out of the ring.
Speed
The champion possesses possibly the fastest hands at 175-pounds. He’s quick with the jab and even quicker with his combinations.
The challenger maintains a steady pace throughout the fight. He saves his energy for the finish in which he does a good job of turning it up a notch.
Endurance
He proved in his last two outings that he can handle going a full 12-rounds: defeating the always-crafty Isaac Chilemba and former champion Jean Pascal.
Although he has never been pushed for 12-rounds, he proved his toughness and grit when he went 10-rounds with Sullivan Barrera despite a broken jaw.
Accuracy
Dmitry has a pinpoint accurate jab that he follows-up with rigorous combinations to the head and body.
Smith’s accuracy isn’t on par with his opponent. However, if he lands one clean shot then the night can come to an early end.
Defense
Bivol is very elusive in the ring, which causes major problems for his opponents in getting off effective shots.
Smith is an offensive-minded fighter; there is no feeling out process in the ring with him. He presses the action from start to finish in overwhelming fashion.
Chin
It is safe to say that the champion’s chin is more than durable. He took some big shots in his previous bout with Jean Pascal but was able to execute his game plan in a hard-fought win.
Although he was stopped once in 2010, Smith has since flipped the script completely on any doubt regarding his chin. He put on a courageous effort with Sullivan Barrera in 2017 after suffering a broken jaw in the second round.
Style
Dmitry is a very busy and aggressive fighter in the ring. He’s constantly throwing his opponents off balance with his movements and continuously unleashes combinations throughout the fight.
Joe fights with confidence and believes he can go toe-to-toe with anybody in the division. He likes to press the action as soon as the bell rings because he can end the fight with just one shot.
Intangibles
Credit to the champion who will be competing for the 8th time in just two years. He is very active and has fully embraced the role as a young titleholder in a very talent-stacked division. In his most recent title-defense, he was able to withstand the physical and aggressive pressure that Jean Pascal is famous for. Similar to Pascal, Joe Smith delivers the same power and aggressiveness only with more torque in his shots. Any lingering questions regarding the champion’s chin will be answered in this bout.
Joe Smith put himself on the map back in 2016 when he embraced the underdog role against former title challenger Andrzej Fonfara; a fight in which he won via a first round TKO. Nearly three years down the road, he finds himself embracing the underdog role again, this time in his backyard and with the WBA Light Heavyweight title at stake. Joe is no stranger to spoiling parties, he spoiled the retirement party of future hall-of-famer Bernard Hopkins just two years ago and plans on doing the same against a fighter who many refer to as the future of the division.
Crowd Support
Although he earned the biggest win of his young career in his last outing with former champion Jean Pascal, it may not be enough to earn him the significant crowd support considering he is fighting in Smith’s home state.
Smith is a finisher and is also a native of New York, most of the crowd will be in his corner.
The Match-up
1. Will Joe Smith’s inactivity show in this fight?
2. Will Dmitry be able to handle Joe Smith’s power?
3. Will Joe Smith be able to handle the pressure and speed of Dmitry?
4. Will Dmitry be able to stay away from Joe Smith power, while fighting his fight at the same time?

According Main Events’ Matchmaker, Jolene Mizzone, “This match-up is a great one! Joe Smith gained national attention with his upset against a legend in Bernard Hopkins, the future Hall-of-Famer. Opponents are not lining up to face Dmitry Bivol but the champion is willing to fight anyone at any time. Despite the buzz around Bivol, Smith is ready to step up and take on the young champion and prove he ranks among the top contenders in the stacked light heavyweight division.”

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Bivol (15-0 11 KOs) puts his crown on the line for the fifth time against Long Island’s Smith Jr (24-2 20KOs), who fights in his first World title bout. The champion has long stated his desire to unify the 175lbs division, but the unbeaten Russian has cast his eyes on the Super-Middleweight division and is excited by the prospect of potentially becoming a two-weight World champion.

“I’m not a big guy for Light-Heavyweight, and I can make Super-Middleweight, and I said many times that I want the big fights,” said Bivol. By that I mean that I want to fight for belts. If someone has a belt in Super-Middleweight or Light-Heavyweight division, I would be glad to fight them.

“I know Callum Smith has a belt, and I would like to fight him if he wants to, and if our promoters can make this fight. I am open for every fight for the belt now. There are many names who have belts. To the top ten from Light-Heavyweight and Super-Middleweight: I’m ready to fight.

“Boxing is a different sport to something like running. In running, you just have good speed. In boxing, you could have good speed, but this doesn’t mean you can win. I’m not the hardest puncher, I’m not the quickest fighter, but I have something that helps me to be a winner. I have enough speed, I think many speed from Light-Heavyweight have enough speed, the same power as me, maybe more power. I love this sport, because you don’t need to be the quickest or the strongest, I don’t know. I’m just one of the best. I have the best team, I have the best coach, maybe it’s because I believe in my skills.”

Smith Jr’s clash with Bivol is part of a huge night of action at Turning Stone Resort Casino with a second mouthwatering World title fight on the bill in the shape of Maurice Hooker (25-0-3 17 KOs) defending his WBO World Super-Lightweight title against Brooklyn’s Mikkel LesPierre (21-0-1 10KOs).

Callum Johnson (17-1-0 12KOs) and Sean Monaghan (29-2-0 17KOs) will both have a keen eye on the Bivol-Smith Jr. clash as they battle in a crunch fight in the 175lbs division, Uzbek amateur star Israil Madrimov (1-0 1KO) defends his WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight title against Frank Rojas (24-2-0 23 KOs), World-ranked heavyweight contender Sergey Kuzmin, (14-0 11 KOs), of St. Petersburg, Russia will battle Philadelphia based veteran Joey Dawejko, (19-6-4 11 KOs) and Otha Jones III makes his pro debut on the card.

New York, March 7, 2019

STAR BOXING is excited to announce the signing and Star Boxing debut of 24-year-old, Georgian native, GIROGI “GOGA” GELASHVILI (Kutaisi, Georgia, 5-1 3KO’S). Gelashvili began boxing at the age of 14 and had an impressive amateur career of 120 amateur fights, with 110 victories. He is an only child, and currently resides in Brooklyn, NY. Gelashvili came to New York in pursuit of taking the next step in his professional career.

On March 9, at Turning Stone Resort & Casino on the undercard of the DIMTRY BIVOL vs JOE SMITH JR. WBA World Light Heavyweight Title Fight, Gelashvili will be facing heralded prospect, 18-year-old OTHA JONES III (Pro-Debut). Jones, a native of Toledo, had a remarkable amateur pedigree of 283-13, having won many amateur titles while representing Team USA, including gold at the United States National Championships (2x) and the World Championship Qualifier.

Gelashvili is ready for the challenge in facing Jones under the bright lights DAZN. “My opponent is good but not better than me. I am faster and stronger than he is. He grew up like a baby with everyone taking care of him” Gelashvili continued, “I grew up lonely in the street, fending for myself and I began this career lonely, so you see I have always been a fighter. Fighting to survive and now fighting to win. I thank God for giving me this opportunity to fight in the United States. I thank Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and DAZN for giving me the opportunity to showcase my fighting spirit. Finally, I thank my team at Guzman Boxing Academy and Universal Boxing Management. Now it’s my time!”

MOISES ROMAN, advisor to Gelashvili, had this to say about the upcoming bout, “Before this fight came about, I signed Giorgi Gelashvili to an advisory contract and started negotiating with Joe DeGuardia, for a chance to have him compete on Star Boxing promoted cards, [but] when this fight was offered by Joe, we jumped right on it. It’s a large venue, and a big platform to showcase Giorgi’s talents” said Roman. “We are well aware of Otha’s talents and many national titles at the amateur level in the US. Just like Otha, Giorgi has also competed in, and won, many national titles back in his home land and has competed in over 100 amateur fights. With that, I want to thank Joe DeGuardia for signing him to an exclusive promotional contract and also Matchroom for the opportunity to compete on DAZN.”

Star Boxing head, JOE DEGUARDIA, had this to say about both the signing of Giorgi Gelashvili, and his great opportunity on March 9, “We think highly of Giorgi and he has been impressive in the gym. Most importantly, I respect that he was up for this challenge against one of the top prospects that is turning pro. Both Giorgi and Otha ought to be commended for fighting each other and I expect a very good fight.”

INFO:
Smith Jr (24-2 20KOs) fights for a first time for the World title and will be full of confidence going into the bout, with his last four wins coming by impressive KO’s, including a first round demolition of Poland’s Andrzej Fonfara in Chicago and sending modern-great Bernard Hopkins into retirement.

Bivol (15-0 11 KOs) defends his title for the fifth time against the Long Island man and is hoping Smith Jr comes for a war – and the 29 year old challenger promises to bring everything he’s got to a night he’s been waiting for his entire life.

New York, March 6, 2019

DMITRY BIVOL and JOE SMITH JR. met for one final time today at the DREAM HOTEL in NYC at the final presser ahead of Saturday night’s WBA World Light Heavyweight Championship bout at Turning Stone Resort Casino to be aired LIVE on DAZN.

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QUOTES & PHOTOS

JOE SMITH JR:
“I’d like to thank everyone who helped get this fight for me.”

“I’ve put everything I’ve had into this training camp and worked really hard.”

“This is what every fighter dreams of, to get a shot at a world title and this is my shot.”

“I am going to bring the belt back home to my home town and share it with my family and celebrate with everyone who helped me get to this point”

STAR BOXING CEO JOE DEGUARDIA:
“Be sure to tune in on DAZN. Subscribe. All the union guys across the country go right online and be sure to catch this fight.”

“Joe Smith Jr. has always been something special. He’s got a great boxing IQ and a sledgehammer in both hands…Dont blink Saturday night ”

“We are fighting a great fighter in Bivol, who is …I believe the best Light Heavyweight out of all of the champions, but Joe was a 25-1 underdog when he KO’d Fonfara and did it again when he was not supposed to beat Hopkins. We expect Saturday night to be a great night.”

DMITRY BIVOL:
“Thank you all my team who helped me in my training camp and all my sparring partners.”

“I am ready to fight. I hope Joe is ready too. We will make a great fight.”

MATCHROOM PROMOTER EDDIE HEARN:
“I firmly believe this man [Bivol] is the best 175 lb fighter in the world.”

“It’s about stories, its about drama, and everyone here has their oppurtunity.

JOE SMITH JR. TAKES THE MIC AT TODAY’S PRESSER

DMITRY BIVOL ADDRESSES THE MEDIA

THE STAGE WAS SET AT TODAY’S PRESSER
INFO:
Smith Jr (24-2 20KOs) fights for a first time for the World title and will be full of confidence going into the bout, with his last four wins coming by impressive KO’s, including a first round demolition of Poland’s Andrzej Fonfara in Chicago and sending modern-great Bernard Hopkins into retirement.

Bivol (15-0 11 KOs) defends his title for the fifth time against the Long Island man and is hoping Smith Jr comes for a war – and the 29 year old challenger promises to bring everything he’s got to a night he’s been waiting for his entire life.

DMITRY BIVOL & JOE SMITH JR READY TO WAGE WAR
DMITRY BIVOL & JOE SMITH JR READY TO WAGE WAR

PREVIOUS RELEASES:
Joe Smith Jr. Gets Long Awaited Title Shot
BIVOL vs SMITH Quotes from Presser at MSG
BIVOL: “I Know Smith Jr Will Come To Fight”
SMITH JR.: “World Title Would Mean Everything To Me”

Joe Smith Jr says he will pour his heart and soul into his World title challenge against WBA World Light-Heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol on Saturday March 9 at Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona, NY, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK.

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Smith Jr (24-2 20KOs) fights for a first time for the World title and will be full of confidence going into the bout, with his last four wins coming by impressive KO’s, including a first round demolition of Poland’s Andrzej Fonfara in Chicago and sending modern-great Bernard Hopkins into retirement.

Bivol (15-0 11 KOs) defends his title for the fifth time against the Long Island man and is hoping Smith Jr comes for a war – and the 29 year old challenger promises to bring everything he’s got to a night he’s been waiting for his entire life.

“Winning a World title would mean everything to me,” said Smith Jr. “It’s everything I have worked towards my whole life. I cannot even express how I will feel when I win this title.

“Training camp has been great. We’ve worked on a lot of new things and I’ve pushed myself to the limit every day. Also, I had some great sparring partners to help me prepare for this fight.

“Dmitry is a great fighter, very busy and active. My plan is to stay just as active and be busier than him, to outwork him. I plan to punch when he punches and make it a great fight.

“The fans are in for a great show on Saturday. They will see a new and improved Joe Smith Jr., the new Light-Heavyweight champion of the world.

“I would like to thank Joe DeGuardia, Star Boxing, DAZN and Matchroom for this opportunity. I am looking forward to raising that belt, and finally reaching my dream of becoming a World champion.”
Smith Jr’s clash with Bivol is part of a huge night of action at Turning Stone Resort Casino with a second mouthwatering World title fight on the bill in the shape of Maurice Hooker (25-0-3 17 KOs) defending his WBO World Super-Lightweight title against Brooklyn’s Mikkel LesPierre (21-0-1 10KOs).

Callum Johnson (17-1-0 12KOs) and Sean Monaghan (29-2-0 17KOs) will both have a keen eye on the Bivol-Smith Jr. clash as they battle in a crunch fight in the 175lbs division, World-ranked heavyweight contender Sergey Kuzmin, (14-0 11 KOs), of St. Petersburg, Russia will battle Philadelphia based veteran Joey Dawejko, (19-6-4 11 KOs) and Otha Jones III makes his pro debut on the card.

Dmitry Bivol knows that Joe Smith Jr. is coming to rip his title away from him – and the WBA World Light-Heavyweight king says that will make for a great fight when he defends his belt at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY on Saturday March 9, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

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Bivol (15-0 11 KOs) puts his strap on the line for the fifth time and it’s been smooth sailing since he destroyed Trent Broadhurst inside a round in his first defense in November 2017.

The Russian has put Sullivan Barrera, Isaac Chilemba and Jean Pascal to the sword since that win in Monaco, and now the hard-hitting Russian goes head to head with Smith Jr (24-2 20KOs).

The Long Island man fights for his first World title against Bivol, and the 29 year old has vowed to pour everything out of himself to land the crown – and the defending champ believes that their styles will gel for a great clash.

“He’s a strong guy,” said Bivol. “I saw his fight against Bernard Hopkins, and he’s really strong. He has the same age like me, he’s young. But he has some minus points like many fighters that I will use to my advantage for my win. He moves forward a lot. This is a good challenge for me, to stop him.

“I saw in his eyes when I met him, he wanted my belt. And I’m glad, because only that way it can make a good fight.

“We are both of different styles. When two guys meet in the ring with different styles in boxing, it usually makes a good fight. I think it will be a good fight for boxing fans.

“To be honest, I don’t think about the belt. I just think about who my opponent is, and what he can show me in the ring. All I think about is how I should beat him. In my sight, I feel like I should just beat him. Of course, the belt is good for history, but I only think about my opponent.”

Bivol’s clash with Smith Jr. is part of a huge night of action at Turning Stone Resort Casino with a second mouthwatering World title fight on the bill in the shape of Maurice Hooker (25-0-3 17 KOs) defending his WBO World Super-Lightweight title against Brooklyn’s Mikkel LesPierre (21-0-1 10KOs).

Callum Johnson (17-1-0 12KOs) and Sean Monaghan (29-2-0 17KOs) will both have a keen eye on Bivol’s clash as they battle in a crunch fight in the 175lbs division, World-ranked heavyweight contender Sergey Kuzmin, (14-0 11 KOs), of St. Petersburg, Russia will battle Philadelphia based veteran Joey Dawejko, (19-6-4 11 KOs) and Otha Jones III makes his pro debut on the card.

Moscow, Russia (February 6, 2019) World of Boxing, one of the premier international boxing promoters and based in Moscow, Russia is marching into the United States on Saturday, March 9, 2019 with two of its top charges, WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol, (15-0, 11 KOs), and Undefeated Heavyweight Contender Sergey Kuzmin, (14-0, 11 KOs), featured in bouts from the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, N.Y. and broadcast on the streaming service DAZN.

Bivol’s world title defense against Joe Smith Jr., (24-2, 20 KOs), will headline the show in a scheduled 12-round clash while Kuzmin will face an opponent to be announced in a ten-round bout. The event is co-promoted with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing

Founded by Andrey Ryabinsky in 2012, World of Boxing has promoted many of the sport’s biggest events featuring numerous members of their roster including heavyweight world title challenger Alexander Povetkin, cruiserweight world champion Denis Lebedev, undefeated welterweight prospect Sergey Lubkovich, former lightweight world champion Edward Troyanovsky and former cruiserweight world champion Grigory Drozd in addition to Bivol and Kuzmin.

On September 22, 2018, World of Boxing co-promoted with Matchroom Boxing the World Heavyweight Championship between Anthony Joshua and Povetkin which drew 80,000 boxing fans to Wembley Stadium in London, England and was viewed by a massive international televised audience.

Said Ryabinsky, “I’m very happy with the great athletes and tremendous events we’ve been able to promote since 2012. We now enter a new chapter where many of our fighters will be further competing in the United States and we welcome this challenge to fight the best boxers situated in that country.”

The philanthropic Ryabinsky also played an extensive financial role in the recovery of Russian heavyweight contender Magomed Abdusalamov who suffered a brain injury following a fight in November 2013, underwriting many of the costs associated with his therapy and family assistance.

“I considered it my personal duty to help Magomed although I didn’t promote him. He was a true Russian warrior and I was honored to help him and his family and will continue to do so as needed.”

One of World of Boxing’s top prospects, 2016 Olympic Bronze Medalist Murodjon Akhmadaliev impressed an HBO nationally televised audience improving to 5-0 with a ninth-round knockout of Isaac Zarate in their scheduled ten-round super bantamweight bout on November 24, 2018.

Website

www.VsenaBox.Ru

Tickets for the World title double-header starring Dmitry Bivol and Maurice Hooker defending their belts at Turning Stone Resort Casino on Saturday March 9 live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK are on sale NOW

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Bivol puts his WBA Light-Heavyweight title on the line against Joe Smith Jr, the fifth defense of his belt after moving to 15-0 (11KOs) in November, with a comprehensive to a points win over former unified champion Jean Pascal in New Jersey. Bivol’s win over the Canadian was the latest impressive name on his growing CV, following a points triumph over Isaac Chilemba, a final round stoppage of Sullivan Barrera and a highlight real first round KO of Trent Broadhurst.

The Russian star will meet a stern test of his ambitions to unify the division in the shape of Smith Jnr (24-2 20KOs) the Long Islander who famously stopped Bernard Hopkins in the Philadelphia legend’s last pro fight in December 2016 and destroyed Andrzej Fonfara inside the opening round of their clash in Chicago six months earlier.

Hooker defends his WBO Junior-Welterweight title against unbeaten challenger Mikkel LesPierre, with Hooker making the second defense of his title following his stunning victory in November, climbing off the canvas in the second round against Alex Saucedo in the challengers Oklahoma City backyard to hand a first career loss to the 24 year old in the seventh round.

Hooker (25-0-3 17KOs), who won the title on the road earlier in the year in Manchester to take Terry Flanagan’s ‘0’ in June, will add upstate New York to his travels as he targets a major hometown defense in the summer. Trinidad and Tobago born Brooklynite LesPierre (20-0-1 9KOs) fights for his first World title against Hooker.

“I want to thank Joe and his team for taking the fight as I think that our styles will make for a great fight – but I will keep my title,” said Bivol. “I’m so happy that my team have come up with a great plan for my future on DAZN, it’s an exciting new chapter in my career and I cannot wait for March 9.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and one I’ll take full advantage of,” said Smith Jr. “This is everything that I’ve worked for, really hard, for my whole life, so I’m going to give it everything I’ve got, and come March 9, I will be 100 per cent ready to take that title home.”

“I can guarantee you that I’m leaving New York City with another ‘W’ in the win column,” Hooker said. “I’m hungry to get back to competing and I’m going to put on a great show so that I can bring my belt back to Dallas for my next bout.”

“We’re very excited that Mo will be fighting in New York, giving him the opportunity to shine in the biggest city in the world,” Roc Nation Sports boxing promoter Dino Duva said. “He had an unforgettable 2018 and we’re confident that he’ll sustain that momentum in 2019.”

“It’s been a long time coming, I’ve been grinding underground out of the public eye – so when I come to fight, I go to work and get the job done,” said LesPierre.

“I took this fight in a heartbeat. I don’t listen to what people say, some might not think I deserve this shot but come March 9, I will show people that I belong at this level. I’ve moved up the rankings and put the work in – there’s no-one out there that works harder than me or wants this more than me. I’ve put myself in position to get to this point and now it’s time to shine.”

Further fights on the undercard will be announced soon.

Bivol makes the fifth defense of his belt against Smith Jnr after moving to 15-0 (11KOs) in November, with a comprehensive to a points win over former unified champion Jean Pascal in New Jersey. Bivol’s win over the Canadian was the latest impressive name on his growing CV, following a points triumph over Isaac Chilemba, a final round stoppage of Sullivan Barrera and a highlight real first round KO of Trent Broadhurst.

The Russian star will meet a stern test of his ambitions to unify the division in the shape of Smith Jnr (24-2 20KOs) the Long Islander who famously stopped Bernard Hopkins in the Philadelphia legend’s last pro fight in December 2016 and destroyed Andrzej Fonfara inside the opening round of their clash in Chicago six months earlier.

Eddie Hearn presents Bivol vs. Smith Jr in association with World of Boxing, Star Boxing and Main Events – and both fighters and their teams predict fireworks when the pair clash in March, with the date and venue to be confirmed at a press conference in New York this Friday.

“I am glad to finally meet Joe in the ring,” said Bivol. “I saw his fights against Fonfara and Hopkins live and always wanted to test my skills against him! Thank you to World of Boxing, Matchroom Boxing USA, and DAZN – I hope to put a great performance for everybody!

“Very happy to be working with Eddie Hearn, it’s a pleasure!” said World of Boxing’s Andrei Ryabinskiy. “We look forward to a great event together with Matchroom and DAZN.”

“Bivol was supposed to fight Joe back in November, it’s a very exciting fight,” said Bivol’s manager Vadim Kornilov. “Both Dmitry and Joe have a lot of power. I guess this fight was meant to happen and we look forward to a building relationship with Eddie Hearn and DAZN!”

“I am very excited for the opportunity to fight Bivol for the World championship,” said Smith Jr. “Everything I’ve worked for in and out of the gym was to better myself and become a World Champion. All the hard work and my determination will pay off come fight night.”

“Joe Smith Jr. is one of the hardest punching fighters out there,” said Smith’s promoter Joe DeGuardia. “His exciting style and humble background has made him a real fan favorite. I am pleased he will be getting this opportunity to fight for the World Championship. Joe has been anxiously waiting for this opportunity and I look forward the fight.”

WBA Light Heaveight champion Dmitry Bivol will defend his title against Joe Smith, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Smith was originally ticketed to face IBF champion Artur Beterbiev, but Beterbiev looks like he will be making a deal with TOP Rank and moving to the ESPN platforms.

ATLANTIC CITY–Dmitry Bivol retained the WBA Light Heavyweight title as he pounded out a 12-round unanimous decision over former champion Jean Pascal at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.

Bivol mixed up his combinations as some started at the head while others focused on the body.  Pascal tried to keep Bivol honest by throwing some wild shots from distance.  Bivol was very solid and workmanlike throughout the 12-round affair that saw flashes of the old Pascal as he would occasionally get in with a wild shot.

Bivol, 174,4 lbs of St. Petersburg, RUS won by scores of 119-109 twice and 117-111 to stay unbeaten at 14-0.  Pascal, 174.6 lbs of Montreal, CAn is 33-6-1.

“Every time we shoot for a knockout,” said Bivol. “I try to show my boxing skills also. I hope everyone was happy with the fight, and I thank everyone for coming out to watch.

“(Pascal) used his experience and he was powerful in this fight. I used all of my skills to win this fight,” added Bivol.

“Bivol is a great young champion and I take my hat off to him as the top guy at light heavyweight,” said Pascal following the fight. “I was focused and prepared for this challenge, and I gave it my all, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough for me tonight.

“Now I will go back to Montreal with my head held high, enjoy some time with my family, and then after I take some time off I will sit down with (manager) Greg Leon and the rest of my team to see what’s next.”

What does Bivol’s future hold in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions? He has made no secret of wanting to unify the division. “I’m ready to fight (Eleider) Alvarez, (Sergey) Kovalev, or (Badou) Jack. Let’s make the fight,” said Bivol. But he didn’t limit himself to the champions. “Now I’m ready to fight everyone. Either light heavyweight or super middleweight,” said Bivol, who says he can make the 168 pound limit for the right opponent
Murodjon Akhmadaliev stopped Isaac Zarate in round nine of their scheduled 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Akhmadaliev landed the harder punches throughout.  He began to work the body in the middle rounds in an effort to break Zarate down.  That was  accomplished as he started to land heavy shots to the head.  Finally in round nine, Akhmadaliev landed a hard left that drove Zarate into the ropes, and the fight was stopped by referee Eric Dali after a follow up flurry at 1:17.

Akhmadaliev, 121.2 lbs of Namangan, UZB is 5-0 with four knockouts.  Zarate, 122 lbs of San Pedro, CA is 16-4-3.

“It went almost exactly as we thought it would go,” said Ahkmadaliev. “(Zarate) is a crafty and durable fighter and has a lot of experience. I knew I was to going to go in there and knock him out.

“The game plan was to go to the body and wear him down. I knew I was going to take a lot of punches while doing that and to get the job done. I learned a lot of lessons from Zarate. Now, I only want to fight for belts in the future,” said Ahkmadaliev.

Distinguished prospect Israil Madrimov  made a successful pro debut with a 6th stoppage over Vladimir Hernandez in a scheduled ten round super welterweight bout.

In round two, Madrimov started landing power shots that opened up a cut over the right eye of Hernandez.  In round three. Madrimov landed a bevy hard rights that drove Hernandez to the ropes and eventually to the canvas.

In round six, Madrimov continued the onslaught until referee Harvey Dock stopped the bout at 1:24.

Madrimov, 152.8 lbs of Khiva, UZB is 1-0 with one knockout.  Hernandez, 157.2 lbs of Durango, MX is 10-3.

“It was a debut for the title. The only time it happened in boxing history (before this) was (Vasyl) Lomachenko who fought for a title in his first fight,” said Madrimov. “I’m very pleased. The game plan was to do exactly what I did. I want to make history in boxing, and today was my first step.” Of his opponent Hernandez, Madrimov said, “I wasn’t surprised, we knew he is a very tough guy. When we kill the body, the head will fall.”

Shakhtam Giyasov made short work of Miguel Zamudio with a 1st round stoppage of their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

Seconds into the fight, Giyasov dropped Zamudio with a hard left hook.  After being dropped from a low, Giyasov scored his 2nd and final knockdown with a hard combination, and the bout was stopped at 2:41.

Giyasov, 141.2 lbs of Bukhara, UZB is 6-0 with five knockouts.  Zamudio, 142.2 lbs of Sinaloa, MEX is 41-12-1.

“We watched the opponent a lot, we knew he was a serious opponent. He has almost 50 professional fights,” said Giyasov. “But we worked on certain things that worked in this fight. I was glad to defeat such a good and experienced opponent. I’m ready for any fight that is given to me, I’m ready for anything in the next fight.”
Sergey Kuzmin remained undefeated with a 6th round stoppage over Laron Mitchell in a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Kuzmin landed a left hook that put Mitchell down.  Mitchell began to bleed over his left eye.  Kuzmin dropped Mitchell again in round five.

Kuzmin ended things with a 3rd knockdown in round six, and the bout was stopped at 2:37.

Kuzmin, 244.2 lbs of St. Petersburg, RUS is 14-0 with 11 knockouts.  Mitchell, 244.6 lbs of San Francisco, CA is 16-2.

“The fight was great, the fight went very good, as we planned,” said Kuzmin. Kuzmin said of Mitchell, “He was exciting, but he was more surprised by my punches.” Kuzmin says he will rest a little bit, “then get ready for the next fight, go to training camp and train, train, train.”

Logan Yoon remained undefeated by stopping Hamzah Sempewo in round five of their six-round welterweight bout.

Yoon scored two knockdowns in round four, and finished the fight off in round five with a flurry that forced referee Eric Dali to stop the action at 2:39.

Yoon, 143.4 lbs of Honolulu, HA is 14-0 with 11 knockouts,  Sempewo, 141.2 lbs of Mulago, UGA is 12-11.

Despite the stoppage, Yoon was a tough grader. “My performance wasn’t the best, I can always do better. But overall, it was OK. I give it a B-minus,” said Yoon. His plans moving forward: “We’re going back to the gym, training hard, and whatever knowledge we get from God, my manager, and my father, and from inside, that’s what we’ll do.”

Karl Dargan won an eight-round unanimous decision over Moises Delgadillio in a lighteight bout.

Dargan, 134.2 lbs of Philadelphia won on all cards by a 78-73 score, and is now 19-1. Delgadillio, 135 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 17-18-1.

Dargan said he’d hoped for a better performance. “My performance, it was OK, but not what I expected. I felt good, but I didn’t perform like I felt. Most important thing, he didn’t win and I did.” Dargan says he will make adjustments for his next fight. “It’s not anything I really have to change. Just things that need to be tuned up,” explained Dargan.

Former Olympic Gold Medal winner Evgeny Tischenko stopped Christian Mariscal in round two of their scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Tischenko dropped Mariscal with a straight left for referee Harvey Dock’s 10-count at 1:38.

Tischenko, 212 lbs of Beigorod, RUS is 3-0 with two knockouts. Mariscal, 246.4 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 11-2.

“I’m very pleased, I’m very happy that I had an opportunity to perform on such a big event on HBO Championship Boxing,” said Tishchenko. “One of the last shows, and I am pleased with my performance. I’m hoping to perform many more times here in the United States.”

Follow all the action as Dmitry Bivol defends the WBA Lightweight title against former champion Jean Pascal.  the action kicks off at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT as Murodjon Akhmadalie battles Isaac Zarate in a super bantamweight bout.

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Round 1: Pascal tries to lunge in with a left hook..Left from Pascal..Bivol jabbing..Right..Combination on ropes

Round 2 2 hard rights from Bivol..Right from Pascal..Counter left..Combination from Bivol..left..Body..

Round 3 Jab from Bivol..Hard body shot and a right hand…left..Jab..Right..2 rights

Round 4 Pascal tries to land a right..Left to body from Bivol..Good left hook..Hard jab..Body shots from Pascal…Bivol lands a right, Pascal goes down–ruled a slip

Round 5 Right to body from Pascal..Pascal fighting in short bursts..Hard left from Bivol..left to body..left hook..Jab..Right

Round 6 Pascal gets in a right to the body…Right from Bivol..Combination..Jab..right..Hard left to the body…3 punch combination..

Round 7 Bivol lands a 3 punch combination..2 lefts to body and left to head..

Round 8  Pascal comes out throwing wild hayemakers and landing a few…Bivol settles down by landing a right…Siolid right hand..Left from Pascal

Round 9 Bivol jabbing..Right from Pascal..Left to body..Right from Bivol..Good right..Jab,..Combination..left..

Round 10 Bivol coming hard and landing solid shots…Pascal sneaks in a left..Good right from Bivol…2 body shots from Pascal..

Round 11 Right from Bivol…Right from Pascal…Right from Bivol..1-2…combination..

Round 12 Bivol lands a left to the body..Right to body from Pascal..Bivol jabbing..Good right from Bivol

117-111 and 119-109 TWICE FOR DMITRY BIVOL

Round 1 Right hook from Akhmadaliev…2 rights hooks and straight left drives Zarate to the ropes..Right hook..Quick right..Hard left in the corner..

Round 2 Hard left over the top from Akhmadaliev…Zarate trying to work the body..Jab from Akhmadliev…Quick right hook..Hard left over the top..Straight left to the body.

Round 3 Big straight left from Akhmadaliev..Big over hand left…Uppercut and straight left to body..Hige right hook hurts Zarate..

Round 4 Hard straight left from Akhmadaliev…Sapping left to the body

Round 5 1-2 from Zarate..left from Akhmadaliev..Body work from Zarate..Jab from Akhmadaliev..Body shot from Zarate,,Long left from Akhmadaliev

Round 6 Left from Akhmadaliev..Wicked 3 punch combination hurts Zarate..Body shot from Zarate..Left to body..Hard straight left from Akhmadaliev…ripping to the body..

Round 7 Left from Akhmadaliev..Zarate trying to land the uppercut..Straight left from Akhmadaliev..chopping left..Combination on the ropes..Hard left to body..another left to body..

Round 8 Left and right from Akhmadaliv…Right hook on the ropes..straight left..Left to body..More body work sets up 3 hard shots to the head

Round 9  Hard left from Akhmadaliev…Right hook…BIG LEFT DRIVES ZARATE INTO ROPES AND THE FIGHT IS STOPPED

Dmitry Bivol Jean Pascal
St. Petersburg, Russia Montreal, Canada
13-0, 11 KOs 33-5-1, 20 KOs
Weight: 174.4 Weight: 174.6

Murodjon Ahkmadaliev
Issac Zarate
Namangan, Usbekistan San Pedro, CA
4-0, 3 KOs 16-3-3, 2 KOs
Weight: 121.2 Weight: 122.0

Israil Madrimov Vladimir Hernandez
Khiva, Usbekistan Durango, Mexico
Pro Debut 10-2, 6 KOs
Weight: 152.8 Weight: 157.2

Miguel Zamudio
Shakhram Glyasov
Sinaloa, Mexico
Bukhara, Usbekistan
41-11-1, 25 KOs
5-0, 4 KOs
Weight: 142.2
Weight: 141.2

Sergiy Kuzmin Laron Mitchell
St. Petersburg, Russia San Francisco, CA
13-0, 10 KOs 16-1, 14 KOs
Weight: 244.2 Weight: 244.6

Christian Mariscal
Evgeny Tishchenko
Tijuana, Mexico
Belgorod, Russia
11-1, 5 KOs
2-0, 1 KO
Weight: 246.4
Weight: 212.0

Karl Dargan
Moises Delgadillo
Philadelphia, PA Guadalajara, Mexico
18-1, 9 KOs
17-17-2, 9 KOs
Weight: 134.2
Weight: 135.0

Logan Yoon Hamzrah Sempewo
Honolulu, Hawaii
Mulago, Uganda
13-0, 10 KOs 12-10, 6 KOs
Weight: 143.4
Weight: 141.2

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com

(Atlantic City, NJ) – Dmitry Bivol of Russia (14-0, 11 KOs) defends his WBA Light Heavyweight World Title against former Olympian and former WBC, IBO, and Ring Magazine champion Jean Pascal of Canada (33-5-1, 20 KOs) on Saturday, November 24, 2018 as HBO World Championship Boxing returns to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s Etess Arena in Atlantic City. Bivol fights in his first main event in the U.S., and Pascal fights for the first time ever in Atlantic City. This will be the second boxing event at the recently opened Hard Rock Atlantic City. Below is the scouting report for this fight.

Category
Dmitry Bivol
Jean Pascal
Age
27
36
Record
14-0-0 (11 KOs)
33-5-1 (20 KOs)
Strength
The champion is a strong and skilled boxer/puncher. He possesses power in both hands and is quick on his feet. He’s proved in his recent bouts his endurance is becoming one of his most notable strengths.
The challenger is an experienced and tough veteran who has taken on the best fighters in the world for over a decade. His chin has always been extremely durable and he has legitimate knockout power in both hands.
Weakness
Bivol has not been in the ring with an opponent quite like Pascal. This is a major step-up for the champion, and he will need to be on his A-game for anything the former champion may bring.
Pascal has an entertaining tendency to turn a boxing match into a slugfest. This may backfire considering the power and elusiveness of his opponent.
Experience
Although he has accomplished great things in his short career thus far, Bivol has not faced someone with the experience and achievements as his opponent.
Pascal is the most experienced of the active light heavyweight contenders. He has fought numerous champions throughout his career, including Bernard Hopkins, Lucian Bute, and Sergey Kovalev.
Power
Bivol has rigorous power in both hands. His power was on full display earlier this year when he became the first and only fighter to stop the durable Sullivan Barrera.
Pascal’s power has been one of his most prominent strengths throughout his career. He has a strong left hook and an overhand right he delivers with authority.
Speed
Bivol’s hands are fast and he throws devastating combinations. He moves around the ring very well and is extremely elusive.
When Pascal finds himself in a position to finish a fight, his speed is put on full display, as he doesn’t hesitate to release everything in his arsenal.
Endurance
In 2018, Bivol proved he can dig deep in the championship rounds when he needs to. In August he earned a 12-round unanimous decision over former title contender Isaac Chilemba.
Pascal will have the advantage in grit and determination. He has proven time-and-time again his heart is as big as anybody in the sport. He has gone 12-rounds in ten career fights.
Accuracy
Bivol’s aggressive and in-your-face style allows him to be an accurate puncher. He likes to close in on his opponents, leaving them with little room at all to run.
Pascal will be at a slight disadvantage. His accuracy becomes more pinpoint once he engages his opponents into the slugfest that he looks for.
Defense
Bivol is not the easiest fighter to hit. He is constantly on his toes and can answer your shots with more devastating shots of his own, which is always on the minds of his opponents
Pascal has always been a more offensive minded fighter. He takes shots to give them, and luckily has had a granite chin throughout his career.
Chin
Bivol’s chin proved to be durable in his bout with Sullivan Barrera. He took some major shots and weathered the storm to earn a TKO win. Jean Pascal will be the hardest hitter Bivol has ever faced.
Pascal’s chin may be one of his most prominent strengths as a fighter. He has only been stopped once in his long and accomplished boxing career.
Style
Bivol is a physical, in-your-face fighter. His jab is his favorite punch. He uses it effectively and throws vicious combinations behind it. The champion likes to apply pressure on his opponents and not leave results to the judges.
Pascal is an aggressive and confident fighter who likes to stand and trade with his opponents if given the opportunity. He is a fierce competitor in the ring and lays it all out on the line every time.
Intangibles
Bivol was put on a fast track to a title, one few have been able to finish successfully. This fight is no different. It will be his most difficult test in his young career. He faces a fighter who has only tasted defeat against current or former world titleholders. If the champion comes out with his hand raised, then he would join an accomplished list of fighters: Sergey Kovalev, Eleider Alvarez, Carl Froch, and Bernard Hopkins.
Throughout his career, former titleholder Pascal has never backed down from a challenge. He has run the gauntlet in the light heavyweight division, with no plans of stopping. In what was supposed to be a retirement party against undefeated prospect Ahmed Elbiali, Pascal turned the tide on the youngster and scored a sixth round TKO. He feels this fight will be no different, except that a victory will make him a world champion once again.
Crowd Support
Bivol has an exciting fighting style. In his second consecutive bout in Atlantic City, New Jersey, it is expected Bivol will have solid crowd support for this bout.
Similar to his opponent, Pascal should expect to have significant crowd support. The Canadian boxing fans are loyal and are expected to make the trip to Atlantic City to watch their fighter attempt to regain the title.
The Match-Up
1. Will Pascal be able to handle Bivol power in both hands?

2 Will Bivol be able to keep his composure if Pascal turns the fight into a slugfest?

3. Will Pascai be able to cut the ring off and handle the speed of Bivol?

4. Will Bivol be able to handle Pascal’s power?

“Trying to get someone to agree to fight Dmitry Bivol is never an easy task, believe me I know,” said Main Events matchmaker Jolene Mizzone. “When Pascal got the call, he didn’t even have to think twice about it and accepted within 10 minutes. Pascal sees an opportunity and is going to try and capitalize.
“Bivol to his credit is willing to fight any veteran, champion or boxer coming up, it doesn’t matter who it is. These are two boxers that are refreshing to match and what boxing is all about, taking risks and challenging yourself.”

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.

Dmitry Bivol, WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion

Question: “How does it feel to be back on the Boardwalk?”

Bivol: “Good. It is a lot colder than last time, but it feels good.”

Question: “What did you take from your fight with Isaac Chilemba, a crafty guy like that?”

Bivol: “I took a lot of experience against Chilemba. He has good defense, and he has speed, a quick fighter. Just good experience.”

Question: “What does Jean Pascal offer to you?”

Bivol: “Pascal is a different fighter than I had before. He is a former champion. I know he’s a strong guy. He has a good counter attack. He has good experience.”

Question: “It doesn’t seem like you’ve ever stepped away from a challenge.”

Bivol: “No, it doesn’t matter. Every fighter has good sides and bad sides. It gives me a chance to show my good skills to people, and I think it will make a good fight.”

Dmitry Bivol
Photo Credits: Tom Briglia/Main Events

Question: “What is your good side?”

Bivol: “I’m not the quickest, I’m not the strongest, I’m not the most dynamic. But I have all these qualities for a boxer. I have something inside of me which helps me to be a winner.”

Question: “What is that?”

Bivol: “I don’t know, some voice inside of me.”

Question: “And it always comes out when you are fighting someone?”

Bivol: “It’s always been with me, yes.”

Question: “I understand this is one of the final fights HBO is broadcasting. Is this meaningful to you?”

Bivol: “I’m really grateful to HBO for this opportunity. When I was young, I watched famous boxers like Mike Tyson, Roy Jones, Manny Pacquiao, fight on HBO. I wanted to be famous like these guys, a champion fighting on HBO. And now I’m fighting in an HBO main event. It’s an honor for me.”

Question: “One of your main goals is to unify titles. Is it hard to stay focused in the meantime?”

Bivol: “This is just a step for my main goal. I can’t describe my main goal, but I know I want to realize my potential to be the champion. This is one of the steps to my goal. Unification fight, this is a step to my goal.”

Question: “Has every step you’ve taken recently been leading to your goal?”

Bivol: “I don’t know exactly if this will be the toughest fight for me, but every fight for me is important and a big responsibility. Every fight is like that. If I lost my previous fight, I would not have the opportunity for this fight.”

Question: “What do you have to do to win this fight?”

Bivol: “I have to do what I can, what I’ve trained, relax and focus on the plan from my training camp.”

Question: “I guess you can’t tell me the plan?”

Bivol: “No (laughs).”

Question: “What’s it like to be back in Atlantic City fighting again?”

Bivol: “I’m glad, because I’ve gotten used to this.”

Question: “Do you feel like you are getting a fan base here in Atlantic City?”

Bivol: “I met a couple people who wished me luck. I hope there will be more and more and more people.”

Question: “Do you notice people coming down from New York, where most of the Russians live?”

Bivol: “Yes, some people are sending me messages that they are going to be at my fight. My friends from Miami will come. From Russia, of course some people will come support me.”

Question: “A Korean newspaper is coming, too.”

Bivol: “That’s good!”

Jean Pascal
Photo Credits: Tom Briglia/Main Events

Jean Pascal – Former WBC Light Heavyweight World Champion

Question: “Are you looking forward to Saturday night?”

Pascal: “Of course!”

Question: “Have you ever fought in Atlantic City before?”

Pascal: “Not yet. I’ve been here twice. The first time I came to see Arturo Gatti fight, a Danish guy [Thomas Damgaard], I don’t remember the name. The second time I came to see Carl Froch fight against Andre Ward in the Super Six.”

Question: “Atlantic City has a reputation as a big fight town. Is it a big deal to fight on the Boardwalk?”

Pascal: “I like it because Gatti used to fight here, he’s from my hometown. There is history here as well. I’ve been there, done that, I’ve fought in Vegas, England, Miami. it’s not my first world championship.”

Question: “How much do you think your experience will come into play?”

Pascal: “Definitely, I have a lot of experience. But I know he can beat me. I’m very glad to have this opportunity. I want to thank Dmitry Bivol for this opportunity. I respect Dmitry a lot. I think right now he’s the best fighter in the light heavyweight division. But I’m going to try and stop him Saturday night.”

Question: “Why did you pick him as an opponent?”

Pascal: “Because,I don’t back down from any challenges. When they call, I just say yes. When an opportunity comes, I just say yes. They call me up, I say yes, I take the challenge.”

Question: “What does he offer different from any other opponents you’ve fought?”

Pascal: “His nickname must be the problem, because I have a lot of problems to resolve Saturday night. He has good distance, he has good balance, he’s strong, he hits hard. It’s going to be a great fight on Saturday night.”

Question: “What do you present he hasn’t seen before?”

Pascal: “Like I said,you cannot buy experience. You need to live it. You need to experience it. I’ve been in there with Kovalev twice. I’ve been in there with Hopkins twice. I’ve been in there with Carl Froch, [Lucian] Bute, with [Adrian] Diaconu. Like I said, this is something you cannot buy. He might be young, fresh, but I’ve got experience on my side.”

Question: “What are your good sides?”

Pascal: “Come on Saturday night and you will see.”

Question: “I guess you can’t tell me your bad sides?”

Pascal: “Come Saturday, maybe you won’t see it though.”

Question: “Styles make fights. Is this one of the styles you think will make a good matchup?”

Pascal: “Dmitry’s not a chicken. He’s not going to run around, I know he likes to fight. He wants to put on a good show, he’s there to fight me and impress the public. I know it’s going to be a great battle on HBO. I think, seriously, I really think it’s going to be the best fight of this year on HBO.”

Question: “Is this fight important to your legacy?”

Pascal: “I’m making history again. I said before, I was the first Canadian boxer to be on HBO in Canada against Chad Dawson, so I was very proud. It was when I was world champion. I’m going to be the last Canadian boxer who fights on HBO World Championship Boxing. Once again, I’m making history. So, I’m very glad and happy and proud of myself.”

Question: “Do you study your opponent, or wait and see in the ring? Do you study someone’s style?”

Pascal: “I study my opponent, but not too much. Just because he’s fought like this the last time or the last three fights, it doesn’t mean he’s going to show up in the same way. So, I study my opponent, but not too much.”

Question: “You don’t know how he’s going to react to what you do, right?”

Pascal: “I know that he knows me really well. I know him too, really well. He knows what to expect from him. He’s got better and better. He’s a young champion. He’s getting better and better. So, I know it will be a great fight.”

Question: “Is there one fight out there you haven’t had you wish you had?”

Pascal: “I’m a veteran, I won’t be caught up on the speculation. I’m focused on Dmitry right now.”

Question: “How do you feel fighting in Atlantic City?”

Pascal: “It’s my first fight here, but it won’t be my last.”

Question: “Did you know this is a big vacation spot for Montreal?”

Pascal: “I didn’t know that. My main focus is to stay focused. After my victory. I’ll come down here.”

Murodjon Akhmadaliev
Photo Credits: Tom Briglia/Main Events

Question: “Your professional career has moved very quickly. Is that something you wanted when you turned pro?”

Akhmadaliev: “It is a big honor. And it is unexpected to be honest with you. I am thankful to my promoter and to my management that I am able to move that quickly. It is definitely a shock but is something that is making me happy. I am very pleased to be where I am.”

Question: “Do you ever worry about opponents that have more experience than you?”

Akhmadaliev: “Yeah definitely they have an experience advantage, but I have a lot of amateur experience and I feel that I am ready for this. I am ready for these fighters. I have fought a lot of top fighters in the amateurs and I feel like that experience is just as important. I feel good. I am happy to be fighting these top fighters right away.”

Question: “What is the biggest difference in the amateurs and the pros?”

Akhmadaliev: “I think the main difference is the number of rounds, the length of the fight, so the conditioning needs to be at a different level. We have been working on that a lot with my team and my trainers, Joel Diaz and Antonio Diaz. I have done a lot of sparring with Diego de la Hoya and JoJo Diaz. I have done a lot of work and I feel like I am ready, 100%. For me this is just a step forward.”

Question: “Were there any fighters that you idolized growing up that you try to pattern yourself after?”

Akhmadaliev: “Roy Jones Jr., Manny Pacquiao, Vasyl Lomachenko and GGG.”

Vadim Kornilov: “He has a lot of things that he takes from those fighters. You guys will see in the ring. A lot of people like where they are but not a lot of people are able to do what they do but M.J. does certain things in the ring that are taken from each of those fighters. He really enjoys performing. It is hard to describe but I think the best thing is to watch the co-main event on HBO and M.J. Akhmadaliev. People are going to see some of these things that are very interesting. He has a lot of combinations and a lot of punches that he uses that are very exciting. He takes the best from all these guys.”

Question: “Did you know all along that you were going to become a pro someday?”

Akhmadaliev: “Of course. It is my dream to become a pro. Right now, my career, is a dream come true. Those fighters that I watched, I wanted to be like them one day. I am taking steps forward to get to that level. My plan is for one day I will be like one of them.”

Question: “They say some amateurs have a style that is more suited for the pros. Is that the case with you?”

Akhmadaliev: “My style was already professional even when I was an amateur. But now I am doing a lot of work with my team, my trainers, to become more of a fitted pro. We are doing a lot of work on that. You will see in the ring on Saturday.”

Question: “What can the fans expect when they tune in on Saturday?”

Akhmadaliev: “I will perform at my best and it will be a very exciting fight. I can guarantee that. (laughs) It will be another ‘Big Drama Show.'”

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.

KATHY DUVA, President and CEO, Main Events:
“Good morning and good afternoon everyone. Main Events could not be happier to be coming back to the Etess Arena at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City. Our first event in August was a sellout. It proved to us what we already knew: there is still a big appetite for boxing in Atlantic City.

With our second card at the Etess Arena we expect to build on our momentum by bringing Dmitry Bivol back to be in the main event this time on November 24 against one of our division’s most admired champions, Jean Pascal.

Dmitry Bivol is going to risk his perfect record against a tested tough opponent. Dmitry has made no secret about wanting to unify titles in the light heavyweight division. But the other titleholders for some reason just don’t seem to be ready for him right now.

Jean Pascal is always ready. He never turns down an opportunity. He is a warrior. He has fought for three world titles, and he’d like to take Dmitry’s title back home to Canada and confirmed his status as a Hall of Fame fighter when his career is finished. It would make a pretty nice Christmas present for him.

Neither man is taking the other lightly of course. It’s a dangerous fight with a lot at stake. This is the way we like to cook things up at Main Events!

In addition to our fighters, you will also hear from Vadim Kornilov, the manager of Dmitry Bivol; and Greg Leon, CEO of Jean Pascal Promotions.And we are delighted to have Tim Louie with us. He is the Public Relations Manager for the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City.

Why don’t we begin with Vadim today – can you make some opening remarks?

VADIM KORNILOV, Manager, Dmitry Bivol:
Thank you, Kathy. Pleasure to be back at the Hard Rock. It’s great to have another show with Dmitry Bivol on HBO. Now that he’s the main event, it’s something kind of like a dream come true for him. He’s talked about this for a long time He was hoping to be a main event at one point, and he’s got this shot on this last HBO World Championship Boxing event. Thank you all of the Main Events team and World of Boxing team working great together putting this main event together on November 24th.

KATHY DUVA:
Thank you, Vadim, it’s always a pleasure working with you.

Former light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal has won titles and lost titles. But he has never lost anyone’s respect. He has faced every dangerous name in the division for a decade. Carl Froch. Bernard Hopkins. Kovalev. And now, Dmitry. Jean’s farewell tour is making a stop in Atlantic City. He doesn’t want it to be his last stop. We are glad to welcome him to this card and the main event.
Greg, why don’t you talk to us, give us your perspective on the fight, and introduce Jean?

GREG LEON, CEO, Jean Pascal Promotions:
Thank you, Kathy. I’d like to thank World of Boxing and Main Events for making this a very easy deal to finalize. I’d like to thank to the Hard Rock for hosting the event, HBO for broadcasting the event in its final World Championship Boxing. This is a sensational event. Like Vadim said, Bivol was looking to fight on a main event. Jean’s been looking to fight for a world title on his farewell tour. But like Kathy said, the farewell tour does not end in Atlantic City. That’s just the next stop. Both of these guys come to fight. They don’t shy away from challenges. We’re expecting nothing but action on November 24th.

Personally, it’s an honor to represent somebody like Jean, who as Kathy articulated, is a true warrior, doesn’t shy away from challenges, fights the best of the best. For this fight, our mission is to use it as a lens into how much boxing means to HBO. The nucleus of Jean Pascal’s aspirations consists of making history and punching his ticket to the Hall of Fame. So this event will be nothing short of sensational. Our hope is that this sensation will cross-pollinate through HBO’s offices in a way that allows them to re-contextualize their place in the world of boxing around them. This is the heart of what we strive to do. Without further ado, the former WBC and world light heavyweight champion and next WBA light heavyweight champion. Jean?

JEAN PASCAL:
Thank you very much. Hi everybody, I’m very pleased that you’re here. Pascal is back in action. I’ll be fighting on HBO on November 24th. I’m very happy. I want to thank Main Events; also I want to thank Dmitry Bivol and his people for this opportunity to show I’m an elite fighter. I know it’s OK, they think they can beat me. But like I said, It’s OK, it’s part of the sport. I’ve been training very hard for this opportunity. It’s showtime, it’s time to show up.

KATHY DUVA:
Thank you, Jean and thank you, Greg. I want to take a moment for the last time and thank HBO. This is going to be a very difficult event for us in a lot of ways. I hope Greg is right, I hope Jean and Dmitry can somehow, jolt them into reconsidering.

The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City has only been open for a few months. But as we all know, it has already established itself as Atlantic City’s go-to destination on the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk.

There are all the features that made the Hard Rock Hotel name famous including world class rooms, casino, lounges, restaurants, shopping, and service. What’s special to us about the Hard Rock Hotel Atlantic City is the Etess Arena, named after a dear friend of ours who passed away too soon. It’s always been one of the best venues to see boxing in the United States. Thanks to the Hard Rock it’s expanded and even better than before.

Let me bring in Tim Louie with the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and he can to tell you a little more about this amazing fight venue.

TIM LOUIE, Public Relations Manager, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City:
We’re so excited to have boxing back here. This past August was so amazing for me to see, because I’m so new to the business. The arena fits about 7,000 people and it’s so exciting just to even boxing back in Atlantic City. Kathy, you and your team have been amazing to work with. I don’t expect anything to be different next Saturday.

KATHY DUVA:
Thank you, Tim, Nice to hear that. You guys are a pleasure to work with, too.

QUESTION:
Jean, you’re obviously viewed as the underdog in this fight. How much motivation has that provided for you, and how are you looking at this going into the fight?

JEAN PASCAL:
This is the story of my life, to be the underdog. I was the underdog when I faced Chad Dawson. At the time he was considered as the best pound for pound in the world. I was the underdog, fourth in the world and I won the fight. To me, maybe it’s a motivation. I know what to do, I know what I’m capable to do. I have a lot of experience, been there done that. I’m going to do my best to win this fight.

QUESTION:
What did you think of Bivol’s performance against Isaac Chilemba?

JEAN PASCAL:
Honestly, I think he did good. Chilemba used to be my sparring partner. It’s hard to look good against a guy like him. He’s very awkward. In this situation, I think Bivol showed his skill and he did pretty good against an elite fighter.

QUESTION:
Jean, you always come to fight, and make for good television in your career. How do you expect this fight will unfold differently, especially from the viewer’s perspective?

JEAN PASCAL:
It won’t be different, I’m going to be there to fight. I like to fight, I’m the underdog. I know Bivol likes to fight as well; he’s young, hungry. He cannot exactly remember me when I was champion. I was a pretty boy, lot of stamina, young, sexy, with a lot of power. I know that it is entertaining for him right now. I have something on my side, experience. That’s something you can’t buy, you cannot buy.

QUESTION:
Jean, do you think he’s overlooking you?

JEAN PASCAL:
Honestly, I think he’s got no bets, because I’m not in his mind. But like I said, I know Bivol will do very well. I know him as well. If he overlooks me, that would be a big mistake. But I know he has a strong team, he’s a young but I know he’s a smart fighter and a smart guy too. So I don’t think he takes me lightly.

QUESTION:
Greg, what would a win over Dmitry Bivol do for Jean’s career?

GREG LEON:
First of all, I think this win would put in in the Hall of Fame without any question. Right now, Jean is looked at as a guy has a hell of a resume, has fought the best of the best. For the harshest of critics, he might have lost too many big fights to be a lock. Jean’s fight would cement his legacy and his status as a Hall of Famer. A victory on November 24th would certainly do that. As far as what would be next, what’s next right now is November 24th. Obvious, if Jean he wins the title, he becomes the cash cow of the division. All of the other champions reside in Canada. By his own admission, Stevenson by his own choice hasn’t been making fights the public has been demanding. Jean is a star in Canada. With the belt around his waist, he becomes the guy of the division.

There’s also history too, Correct me if I’m wrong, Jean first because champion in 2009. I don’t think nine and a half years have passed from one title reign to the other in the history of the division.

KATHY DUVA:
Let’s move on with the most exciting young titleholder in the light heavyweight division. He’s featured in RING Magazine this month.
He is the undefeated WBA Light Heavyweight Champion. And he really wants to unify the division. From St. Petersburg, Russia — training now in Los Angeles, Dmitry Bivol. Dmitry, tell us about your view of this matchup.

DMITRY BIVOL:
I appreciate the introduction, Kathy.I respect Pascal because he took this fight. I hope we will show a good fight and action in the ring. I will do my best to make a good fight.

QUESTION:
For Kathy, for you is it a goal to turn Bivol into a big draw in the New York and New Jersey area?

KATHY DUVA:
That’s more of a question for Vadim in his capacity with World of Boxing. World of Boxing is our partner in this promotion. We’ve had a great run with Sergey Kovalev in Atlantic City, going up to the big sellout in August, and over a million dollar gate with Bernard Hopkins. He’s Russian, Dmitry’s Russian. It seems logical a charismatic young star like Dmitry, given a little time to develop, can develop a fan following there if that’s what World of Boxing wants him to do. We’d be happy to help them.

Sergey took three bouts, three appearances there to make it to that sold out arena. It does take time, it doesn’t happen overnight. This is a big step in my view in Dmitry’s career stepping up to the main event for the first time. Nobody ever became a star on the undercard. This is the beginning of a journey. We’re always happy to be going back to our home in Atlantic City.

QUESTION:
Dmitry, your last two fights were in the co-main event. Now that you’re in the main event on HBO, how does it feel to get the chance to be a headliner?

DMITRY BIVOL:
Of course I’m glad. It means I’m going the right way in my career. I’m glad that HBO and Kathy Duva and World of Boxing are giving me this opportunity to fight in the main event. It’s a big responsibility for me.

QUESTION:
Do you feel more pressure to go out and deliver a performance that tells people you are the best light heavyweight in the world?

DMITRY BIVOL:
You know, when I go into the ring, every time I feel that I should show all my skills, all my best. I should show to people all my best skills. It doesn’t matter now or my first fight. Every time, I feel the responsibility. I just want people to believe and I want to prove to everybody I’m the best in the division. These are the steps I want to take. There’s always responsibility I take on.

QUESTION:
Jean, you’re coming off back-to-back stoppage wins for the first time in a decade. How do you feel physically at 36 years old? How do you assess your own strength?

JEAN PASCAL:
Right now, I don’t know if I’m stronger than before, but I feel very strong. Of course I got two knockouts in my last fights. But I know they weren’t elite fighters like Dmitry Bivol. So I know I’m going to have to pick up my game but I’m ready for that. Been there, done that. It’s his first main event. Like I said, for me been there done that. I know what I have to do. I’m ready for this fight. I’m looking for this fight to be a great fight.

The fight is going to be in Atlantic City. Remember, we have a Canadian story in Atlantic City. Arturo Gatti is from my hometown and he used to fight over there. He moved when he was younger to fight. He became a legend. At the same time, I’m going to try to honor his spirit over there and win one more title.

QUESTION:
Dmitry, what do you know about Jean Pascal, and the main reason you respect him?

DMITRY BIVOL:
I saw his many fights when I was an amateur. His fight against Bernard Hopkins, fight against many other people. I know he is good in counter attack. He’s strong; he’s a really tough guy. He is a good fighter and I respect him. But when I go to the ring, he will be my enemy.

QUESTION:
Dmitry, Jean Pascal’s manager talks about how he wants to get to the Hall of Fame and be a champion once again. Are you really letting him use you as a stepping-stone?

DMITRY BIVOL:
I think the opportunity is already given in this fight being made. It excites me very much to know he’s so motivated and he has such big goals for this fight. I’m also not coming to the fight to give up my title, and I going to do everything to defend the title. Every one of us has a big goal, and it will make this fight really great.

QUESTION:
So that’s a polite way of saying no?

DMITRY BIVOL:
That’s a polite way to say I will fight for my title until the end and I will not give it up.

QUESTION:
What make you thinks you’re ready to get in the ring with a young lion like Dmitry Bivol?

JEAN PASCAL:
it’s because I’ve got my confidence back. When I fought Eleider Alvarez, I didn’t have my confidence back it was a hard fight for me. Even thought I did good it was a majority decision for him. It wasn’t a walk in the park for Alvarez. In any losses that I had, I always did good, except my second fight with Kovalev. I know I’m a tough challenge. I know I’m a good man to be on the resume. That’s why they picked me.

Honestly, like I said, I have a lot of respect for Dmitry Bivol. He’s a young lion. He thinks that has all the talent in the world like I thought when I was his age. Something he cannot have, he cannot buy, it’s experience. I have way more experience than him, even though he has a lot of amateur fights. I went to the Olympics in 2004 in Greece. I was a world-class amateur fighter also. But I have way more experience than him as a professional boxer. That will lead to a great fight at the Hard Rock Casino. People, tune in at 10 p.m. November 24, because it’s a must watch fight.

QUESTION:
Dmitry, you were in “2 Days” with HBO, the documentary. It looked like a lot of fun, we saw you with your family. That was really the last of its kind for HBO. For you to be featured in that way, how was it?

DMITRY BIVOL:
It was very exciting. I wasn’t used to having a camera around two days before the fight for that much time. It was a new experience. What was interesting, a lot of people got to know me more on the other side of boxing which was very exciting. I want more people to know more about me and understand what kind of person I am.

QUESTION:
What was it like to watch Sergey Kovalev lose? What was it like for you for him not to be the victor that night?

DMITRY BIVOL:
It was a little unfortunate. We know each other and we have common friends. We’ve talked before. It’s not pleasant to see someone you know, an acquaintance, go down like that. I thought he was going to win the fight. We also had some plans about possibly fighting next. A lot of that kind of fell apart. It was a little disappointing.

QUESTION:
Any predictions on how this fight is going to end on November 24th?

DMITRY BIVOL:
I don’t make predictions. it’s very difficult. I will do everything I can to make sure this fight is exciting and it’s over in an exciting fashion.

QUESTION:
A fan question for Jean. Your Canadian fans have given you so much support over the years. How would you describe your relationship with your Canadian fans?

JEAN PASCAL:
My relationship with my fans back home in Canada is very, very great. I feel very, very lucky to have that kind of relationship with my fans because they support me a lot. There are not a lot of boxers in the United States who have a big fan base like I do. I’m very very fortunate. This is why I always take time to please my fans, to talk to them, to talk pictures with them. I’m here because of them as well.

QUESTION: A fan question for Dmitry. How do you see yourself improving you skills?

DMITRY BIVOL: There is never a limit to improvement. I would say that, speed is probably one thing that is with you and is hard to really change. But other things, other skills are definitely something you can improve. Especially agility, and with the distance of the fight being 12 rounds, you can improve on your conditioning. You can improve on your levels of fighting inside and outside, different combinations. There’s always something to add to your game.

QUESTION:
Jean, you retired and quickly came back. You’ve had a great career What can you take from your career into the Bivol fight?

JEAN PASCAL:
I’m going to take my experience. I’ve been there, done that so many times. I know what to do. So I’m going to carry with me in the ring all my experience I got with me from all these big fights: Kovalev, Froch, Hopkins, Dawson. I’m going to take those fights into the ring with me to show him what is the best in the boxing sport.

QUESTION:
Jean, is training camp any different knowing it is your last title shot?

JEAN PASCAL:
During training camp, it was a little bit different. The motivation was a little bit more there. I’ve got the eye of the tiger once again. I think that’s what was lacking from my last few fights, when I fought Kovalev and maybe Hopkins. I got my confidence back that you notice I didn’t have when I fought Kovalev. Right now, everything is in one piece. I’m very confident, very happy, very pleased to be back on HBO. I was the first Canadian boxer who fought in Canada on HBO, and I’m going to be the last Canadian to fight on HBO. So I’m making history once again. So I’m very, very happy.

QUESTION:
Dmitry, come November 24th and you take care of business with Pascal, do you still want the winner of Kovalev and Alvarez 2?

DMITRY BIVOL: As I always say, right now I’m focused on the fight with Jean Pascal on November 24th. I want to fight the best after that, if everything goes well. Whoever is wanting to fight, I want to unify titles and become the undisputed champion.

QUESTION:
Another fan question for Jean, you’ve talked about your experience. How might it give you an advantage against a younger fighter like Bivol?

JEAN PASCAL:
Honestly, if this is something you want to see, I urge you to tune in to HBO on November 24th at 10 p.m., and I will show you everything.

QUESTION:
A fan question for Dmitry, this is your first main event. Now that you have achieved this goal, how does it feel to you?

DMITRY BIVOL:
Of course, I’m very happy that such a legendary channel gave me this final chance to fight on the main event. To me, it just means I’m on the right way, on the right path in my career. I appreciate this opportunity, and I want to take everything I can from it. I want everybody to watch this fight, and I will make sure this fight is very memorable.

KATHY DUVA:
I want to thank Dmitry and Jean, thanks Vadim and Greg. Thank you also Tim Louie for welcoming us back to Atlantic City.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jean and with Dmitry now on more than one occasion. I’ve gotten to know both of them a little bit. One thing I can promise everybody, they will give 1000 percent and they will entertain. It will be worth watching and certainly worth coming out to Atlantic City.

We hope you enjoy your Thanksgiving celebration with family and friends. Although those of us who work for Main Events, we’ve spent our last three Thanksgivings together working.

When you get tired of the leftovers, join us for a fresh serving of World Championship Boxing on Saturday night live at the Etess Arena and live on HBO Boxing.

ANNOUNCER:
Bivol vs. Pascal is a 12 round fight for Dmitry Bivol’s WBA Light Heavyweight World Title taking place on Saturday, November 24, 2018 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.

The co-main event is a WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title fight between Murodjon Akhmadaliev and Isaac Zarate. The event is promoted by Main Events and World of Boxing, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Tickets range between 30 dollars and 150 dollars, and are on sale now through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com.

A transcript of this conference call will be made available to the boxing media. Thank you for joining us today and we hope to see you at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on November 24, or tuning in to watch on HBO’s World Championship Boxing.”

About Bivol-Pascal: Bivol vs. Pascal is a 12 round fight for Bivol’s WBA Light Heavyweight World Title taking place on Saturday, November 24, 2018 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. The co-main event is a WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title fight between Murodjon Akhmadaliev and Isaac Zarate. The event is promoted by Main Events and World of Boxing, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Tickets range between $30 and $150 and are on sale now through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com.

Reminder to news media: The deadline to apply for Fight Week credentials is Friday, November 16. Fill out the credential application at http://www.emcevents.com/

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please
visit HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com

November 13, 2018 – HBO Sports® debuts an all-new installment of “2 Days” when the acclaimed feature segment returns Tuesday, November 13 at 10:45 p.m. (ET/PT) with a behind-the-scenes look at light heavyweight titlist Dmitry Bivol.

“2 Days” is a revealing and intimate look at a 48-hour span in the life of a boxer in the lead-up to one of his fights and the next edition will focus on Russian native Dmitry Bivol. HBO cameras followed the light heavyweight knockout artist this past August when he faced off against Isaac Chilemba at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.The win marked another successful moment for the 27-year-old as he went the distance showcasing his boxing skills, ring generalship and power throughout the fight.

Bivol returns to the ring on Saturday, November 24 when he headlines HBO World Championship Boxing® from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. Bivol will defend his title against Jean Pascal. The telecast will begin at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

“2 Days” will also be available on the HBO On Demand®service, HBO NOW®, HBO GO® and at www.hbo.com/boxing as well as various other new media platforms that distribute the series.

About Bivol-Pascal: Bivol vs. Pascal is a 12-round fight for Bivol’s WBA Light Heavyweight World Title on Saturday, November 24, 2018 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. The event is promoted by Main Events and World of Boxing in association with Jean Pascal Promotions, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Tickets range between $30 and $150 and go on sale Friday through HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com and Ticketmaster.com.

The deadline to apply for Fight Week credentials is Friday, November 16. Fill out the credential application at: http://www.emcevents.com/bivol_pascal

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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

Set on 17 acres, with the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk as its backdrop, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City will be Atlantic City’s go-to entertainment destination, boasting 2,200 slots, 120 table games, more than 20 first-class restaurants and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena, the beachside Sound Waves and Howie Mandel’s Comedy Club. The hotel and casino also features the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, overlooking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, showcasing a brand new elevated menu and state-of-the-art stage, allowing for an amplified level of service and entertainment. Along with an endless array of upscale amenities, including world-class shopping and the brand’s signature full-service Rock Spa and Salon, featuring 31 treatment rooms, the new, music-inspired property offers lavish guest rooms and suites, with stunning views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. From family vacations and business trips to weddings, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City offers an unparalleled experience. Each of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites radiates a contemporary style, including Hard Rock’s signature The Sound of Your Stay® music amenity program, which allows guests to set the mood with complimentary vinyl records or jam out on a Fender guitar in the privacy of their own room. Hotel guests can enjoy high speed, property-wide Wi-Fi, 24-Hour In-Room Dining, towel and chair service at Hard Rock Beach or at the indoor pool, and 24-Hour Access to Body Rock fitness. For more information and to book your stay, please
visit HardRockHotelAtlanticCity.com.