Filip Hrgovic plans to be at ringside in Poland to watch Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois fight for the world title after cementing his position as the mandatory challenger for the IBF belt.

El Animal stopped Demsey McKean in the 12th round on Saturday night, at the 02 Arena in London to confirm that he will be next in line for a shot at the winner of Usyk and Dubois.

Croatian hero Hrgovic moved to 16-0 with his thudding TKO of the brave McKean and instantly turned his attention to his shot at the IBF world title.

The 31-year-old says he will attend Usyk vs Dubois on August 26 and hopes the winner “follows the rules” and fights him next.

Hrgovic said: “I hope it happens, I should fight Usyk next, I deserve that.

“I will go there to watch that fight from ringside. I see Usyk as the big favourite to win that fight because he is quicker and he is a really good fighter, but Dubois is a good puncher, a big guy with a straight right hand, so you never know.

“My message is: follow the rules and the winner should fight me next.”

Hrgovic had to bide his time against a tough McKean but after landing a heavy right hook in the final round, the referee stepped in at 1:01 to call the contest off.

Hrgovic added: “I am satisfied and the fact that he held a lot, that made the fight a little bit ugly. The referee should have given him at least one point deduction. He was holding too much, but he’s a good fighter, brave and was really well prepared. But I was controlling the fight and was winning most of the rounds.

“I thought I was going to knock him out in the first six rounds but he did very well. He’s a decent fighter. I was surprised that he took some good shots and kept coming and throwing punches.”

Former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua took out Robert Helenius in round seven of their 12 round heavyweight bout at The O2 Arena in London.

The fight lacked action for the most most part. Joshua slowly turned up his punch rate in round’s five and six. In round seven, Joshua uncorked a right hand that landed on the jaw that plummeted Helenius on his back and the fight was over at 1:27.

Joshua, 250 lbs of Watford, ENG is now 26-3 with 23 knockouts. Helenius, 249.4 lbs of Mariehamm, FIN is 32-5.

Helenius took the fight on about four-days notice after original opponent Dillian Whyte was taken out of the fight due to a failed test for a banned substance,

Chisora Decisions Washington

In a battle of former world title challenger, Derek Chisora grinded out a 10-round unanimous decision over Gerald Washington in a heavyweight bout.

Chisora, 251.1 lbs of Finchley, ENG won by scores of 98-93, 97-94 and 96-94 and is now 34-13. Washington, 237.9 lbs of Vallejo, CA is 20-6-1.

Hrgovic Stops McKean in 12th

IBF number-one ranked Filip Hrgovic stopped previously undefeated Demsey McKean in the 12th and final round of their heavyweight fight.

The fight mostly lacked action. In round 12, Hrgovic landed an overhand right that hurt McKean, who staggered into the ropes. The referee started a count and then the fight was stopped at 1:01.

Hrgovic, 243.1 lbs of Zagreb, CRO is 16-0 with 13 knockouts. McKean, 245.5 lbs of Queensland, AUS is 22-1.

Fisher Stops Armstrong in 7

Johnny Fisher remained undefeated with a seventh round stoppage of Harry Armstrong in a 10-round heavyweight bout,

Fisher went to work right away as he dropped Armstrong 10 seconds into the fight when he came out swinging from his heels and landed a big right hand.

In round seven, Fisher dropped Armstrong with a massive overhand Fisher followed that up with a big flurry that was highlighted by a crushing right on the ropes that forced a referee stoppage at 1:19.

Fisher, 242.8 lbs of Romford, ENG is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Armstrong, 250,8 lbs of Torquay, ENG is 5-2-1.

Hatton Decisions Ansell

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Tom Ansell in a super lightweight contest.

Hatton, 141.8 lbs of Hyde, ENG won by a 78-74 score and is now 13-0. Ansell, 141.9 lbs of Hitchin, ENG is 10-5.

George Liddard stayed undefeated with a six-round decision over Bas Ootwerweghel in a middleweight bout.

Liddell, 162.3 lbs of Billericay, ENG won by a 59-55 tally and is 4-0. Ooterweghel, 164.7 lbs of Tilburg, NET is 5-2.

Brandon Scott remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Louis Norman in a featherweight fight.

Scott, 131.9 lbs of Swansea, WAL won by a 60-54 score and is now 6-0. Norman, 133.9 lbs of Shepshed, ENG is 14-14-1.

Maiseyrose Courtney remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Gemma Ruegg in a super flyweight contest.

Courtney, 114.4 lbs of Eltham, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 4-0. Ruegg, 113.8 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG is 7-8.

Ahead of his Final Eliminator bout for the IBF Heavyweight World Title, Filip Hrgovic (14-0, 12 KOs) must first come through his fellow undefeated fighter Zhilei Zhang (24-0-1, 19 KOs). The mastermind behind ‘El Animal’ getting his shot at heavyweight glory is the acclaimed Ronnie Shields.

Shields has worked with some of the biggest and baddest fighters in boxing, with legendary names such as Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield a part of a long list of successful champions. Even the current crop of fighters have gone to pick the brilliant mind of Shields, like the undisputed 154lb champion Jermell Charlo and his brother, the current WBC Middleweight Champion, Jermall Charlo to name but a few.

Now, the 64-year-old American has what he believes to be the future king of division. His vast experiences as a fighter and coach make his word as credible as fact. This is, after all, a man who has such experience as marginally missing out on the Olympic team in the 1970’s, having shared an encounter with the great Sugar Ray Leonard during trials.   

“Out of all the fighters I’ve trained, Filip’s right at the top with them,” said Shields. “He is a really good fighter; he knows his way around the ring and when you show him something he picks it up really well. He knows what he must do, and he has shown every attribute it takes to be a top fighter.”

Shields has been alongside Hrgovic every step of the way during a long camp preparing for Zhang. This fight had been scheduled to happen sooner, but the Croatian suffered a personal loss which, understandably, moved the bout to a later date.

Now the fight is finally within touching distance as the clock counts down to fight night on Saturday, with confidence flowing amongst the camp of Hrgovic. For all the suffering, both emotionally and physically, this very moment is where Shields believes ‘El Animal’ is now in peak condition.

“It has been a tough time for him, he’s had to adapt to the fact his father is no longer here. It has taught him a lot, and it has obviously been very painful because he was so close to his father, said Shields. “Filip’s father is with him every single day, and his father wanted him to become heavyweight champion of the world. That is a goal Filip’s set, and he’s not only doing it for himself but his family as well.”

“He’s coming into this so well prepared, we all believe he’s in the best shape he has ever been in. It has been a really long camp, and he’s learnt plenty of things throughout that make him confident he’ll win on Saturday night.”

It is common practice for a fighter to have their eyes securely focused on the task at hand. Zhang will be the only name on the mind of Hrgovic, however, you cannot overlook the prospect of who he may face next out of the two main event contenders – Oleksandr Usyk or Anthony Joshua.

Regardless of previous experiences watching ‘AJ’ train, or the dominant record at Cruiserweight and Heavyweight for the current champion Usyk; Shields remains unintimidated by who may be their next opponent so long as Zhang is taken care of.

“Filip has the capabilities to beat anybody who stands in front of him. He’s consistently shown he’s a really good fighter and he fully knows how to handle himself inside of that ring,” he said. “The main event is a going to be a great fight. Truthfully, I think it’s up in the air who will come out the winner of this one, but either way it’ll be a great show.”  

“It doesn’t which fighter from the main event he fights, I’m confident Filip is going to have the shot he’s been preparing for his whole life to become the heavyweight champion of the world.”

Filip Hrgovi? has been forced to delay his IBF Heavyweight World Title Final Eliminator against Zhang Zhilei following the death of his father.

Having waited over a year for his opportunity to earn a shot at Oleksandr Usyk’s Heavyweight crown, the Croatian star was set to face Olympic Silver medallist Zhilei on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez’s blockbuster clash with Dmitry Bivol on May 7 at the T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“We could not in good conscience allow Filip to enter the ring during this tough time.” said Hrgovi?’s promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We would like to thank the IBF, Daryl Peoples, Zhang Zhilei and our partners Matchroom Boxing for their understanding and compassion in this matter. Pero Hrgovi? was a big part of the team and will be forever missed by us all. Filip will take some time out now to be with his family before resuming his training. We look forward to announcing a new date soon for this exciting Heavyweight clash to determine the next challenger for the IBF World Title and wish both Zhilei Zhang and Scott Alexander good luck in their fight tonight”.

The IBF World Heavyweight Title Final Eliminator between Filip Hrgovi? (14-0, 12 KOs) and Zhilei Zhang (23-0-1, 18 KOs) will take place on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol undercard on May 7 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
 
Hrgovi? has been hunting a dance partner for a showdown to name the mandatory challenger for the IBF World Title held by Oleksandr Usyk. The 29-year-old Olympic bronze medal man has cut a lethal swathe through the pro ranks to sit in a prime position for a deserved shot at the big prize, ending all but two of his fights inside the distance, and not going past the fifth round in his last seven outings.
 
A host of Heavyweights were offered the clash with the dangerous Croatian, but not until it came to #13 ranked Zhang was a dance partner found, with the lofty Chinese star accepting the challenge. The 38-year-old has been circling for a major showdown, and ‘Big Bang’ gets his wish against Hrgovi? in Sin City with the two KO artist promising to leave it all in the ring with the stakes so high.
 
“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for more than year,” said Hrgovi?. “Finally, I have an opponent willing to face me for the chance to fight for the IBF World Title. So many fighters turned down this challenge so credit to Zhang for being brave enough to accept.
 
“I know he’s a good opponent. He won silver at the Olympics so that means he’s a good boxer, but he is too slow on his feet, and I believe I have better the qualities. My speed, stamina and footwork will be too much for him. I will break him down and I will beat him.
 
“I’m now only one fight away from my dream of boxing for a World Title and nothing is going to stop me. Canelo is the face of boxing and I’m excited to get this opportunity on such a big show. I’m ready to show the whole world that ‘El Animal’ is coming!”
 
“I am very happy that this fight is going to happen,” said Zhang. “I’ve been waiting on an opportunity – now it’s here and I’m not going to let it pass.
 
“When no-one else from the top 15 wanted to face Hrgovic, I told myself that I had to do it for me, and for the sport of boxing. This is the most important fight of my whole career. I’m all in. Don’t miss it!”

“Finally, we’ve found an opponent willing to accept the challenge,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “Having gone through the IBF rankings twice, Zhang has stepped up to face Filip Hrgovi? in an IBF World Title final eliminator. We now have ‘El Animal’ versus ‘Big Bang’ for a shot at the biggest prize in boxing. This epic battle is going to light up the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where fans can witness the next Heavyweight Champion of the World in action.”
 
“I love the Heavyweight dust-up between Filip Hrgovic and Zhilei Zhang,” said Eddie Hearn. It’s been a long-time coming for someone to step up to the plate and fight Filip, credit to Zhilei and his team for taking on the challenge. Both men carry huge power, and they know that victory takes them one step closer to sport’s ultimate prize – Heavyweight champion of the World. There won’t be a backwards step taken when they rumble, it’s going to be fireworks on an already electric night.”
 
Hrgovi? vs. Zhang is the latest addition to what promises to be a stacked card in Las Vegas with Montana Love and Gabriel Valenzuela also set to square off in a mouth-watering Super-Lightweight battle in support of the blockbuster main event as pound-for-pound Mexican king Canelo looks to become a two-time World ruler at 175lbs against long-reigning WBA champion Bivol on Cinco De Mayo weekend.
 
Tickets will go on sale starting at $105 (plus fees) on the following dates and times (all times PT) at AXS.com.

• AXS, Fighter, DAZN and Matchroom (codes) Pre-Sales:  Tuesday, March 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Public On-Sale:  Wednesday, March 23 at 10:00 a.m.

Devin Haney remained undefeated and retained the WBC Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over former junior lightweight champion Joseph Diaz Jr. at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The fight was very competitive and entertaining as their styles meshed well. Haney trying to box and land hard body shots long right hands from distance. He was able to did that easily over the first three rounds. Diaz started to get going in round four as he started to press forward and land some solid left hands. Haney continued his gameplan and he started to counter Diaz.

The rounds were very close and they took on a pattern of Haney boxing consistently with Diaz flurrying in the middle of the round. Haney was very effective with his right uppercut, with Diaz doing well with the left.

With Haney seemingly up a few rounds going in to the 12th round, Diaz threw caution to the wind, and buckled Haney with an overhand left. Haney did well to recuperate and start to give as good as he received. It was the early rounds that Haney banked plus a few in later part of the fight that got Haney the victory by scores of 117-111 twice and 116-112.

Haney landed 164 of 614 punches; Diaz was 140 of 573.

Haney, 135 lbs of Las Vegas is now 27-0. Diaz, 134.4 lbs of California is 32-2-1.

Love Stops Diaz in 3

Montana Love remained undefeated with a 3rd round stoppage over Carlos Diaz in a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout.

In round two, Love dropped Diaz with a left uppercut that was followed by a right hook. It was the same combination that put Diaz down again in the round. Love dropped Diaz for a 3rd time in the round when he landed a left right to the head. In round three, Love landed a straight left that drove Diaz to the corner. Two more shots later, and the fight was stopped at 1:22.

Love, 143.8 lbs (3.8 lbs over the Contract weight) of Cleveland, OH is now 17-0-1 with nine knockouts. Diaz, 139.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 29-2-2.

Mccaskill Stops Wyatt in 7; Retains Undisputed Titles

Jessica McCaskill retained the Undisputed Lightweight Welterweight World Title with a 7th round stoppage over late-replacement Kandi Wyatt.

In round three, Wyatt began to bleed from her nose. McCaskill beat down Wyatt. The challenger stood tough and took all of McCaskill’s leather, and even would get in a nice right of her own.

McCaskill had a big round six as she battered Wyatt. At the end of the round, referee Celestino Ruiz told Wyatt that he had her on a short rope. True to form, McCaskill landed 2 flush rights to start round seven, and the fight was stopped at 19 seconds.

McCaskill, 146.4 lbs of Chicago is 11-2 with four knockouts. Wyatt, 146.2 lbs of Calgary, CAN is 10-4.

Hrgovic stops Ahmatovic in 3

Filip Hrgovic remained undefeated by stopping previously undefeated Emir Ahmatovic in round three of a 10-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Hrgovic dropped Ahmatovic twice. The first came from a chopping right to the head. The 2nd knockdown was similar as it was another chopping shot in the corner. In round three, it was yet another chopping right that put Ahmatovic down again and the fight was stopped at 30 seconds.

Hrgovic, 246.8 lbs of Croatia is 14-0 with 12 knockouts, Ahmatovic, 228.4 lbs of Germany is 10-1.

“From the opening bell, I knew he wasn’t on my level,” said Hrgovi?. “It was a matter of time before he was going down. I took my time. I didn’t rush. He went down twice in the second round and by the third round I knew he was finished. This is why I want big fights. Then you will see my true potential.”

Castro Stops Solis in 2

Marc Castro remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Ronaldo Solis in a scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Castro dropped Solis with a hard 1-2 combination. In round two, Castro landed a booming right in the corner and out Solis down, and the fight was stopped at 43 seconds.

Castro, 136.4 lbs of Fresno, CA is 5-0 with five knockouts. Solis, 130.8 lbs of Cancun, MEX is 4-3-1.

Austin Williams stopped Quatavious Cash in the 2nd round of their scheduled eight round middleweight fight.

Williams landed a crushing left to the face that dropped Cash. The referee stopped the bout at 26 seconds.

Williams, 160 lbs of Houston is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Cash, 160 lbs of Atlanta is 14-3-1.

Alexis Espino and Rodolfo Gomez Jr. battled to an eight-round draw.

Scores were 77-75 for Gomez and 76-76 twice.

Espino, 167.4 lbs of Las Vegas is 9-0-1. Gomez of Laredo, TX is 14-5-2.

Amari Jones kept his perfect stoppage streak with a 6th and final round stoppage over Timothy Lee in a middleweight bout.

It was a good action fight that saw Jones drop Lee in the opening frame. Jones started to land heavy shots in round five. Jones poured it on in round six and the fight was stopped at 2:40.

Jones, 160 lbs of Las Vegas is 5-0 with five knockouts. Lee, 159.4 lbs of Las Vegas is 5-2.

Ricardo Sandoval stopped former world title challenger Carlos Buitrago in round seven of their scheduled 10-round flyweight bout.

Sandoval dominated the fight, and the fight was stopped after a Sandoval flurry at 46 seconds.

Sandoval, 111.8 lbs of Rialta, CA is 20-1 with 15 knockouts. Buitrago, 113 lbs of Nicaragua is 32-7-1.

Heavyweight Filip Hrgovic dominated and stopped Mark Radonjic in round three of a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout in Austria.

Hrgovic dropped Radojic four-times in round two and once again in round three, and the bout was stopped.

Hrgovic of Croatia is now 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Radonjic of Montenegro is 22-1.

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with 10-round unanimous decision over Brian Pelaez in a junior welterweight bout.

Smith of England wo by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 9-0. Pelaez of Madrid, SPA is 10-6.

Abass Baraou stopped Jay Harris in the opening round of their eight-round super welterweight fight.

Baraou landed two hard rights that froze Harris and the fight was stopped at 2:43.

Baraou of Berlin, Germany is 10-1 with seven knockouts. Harris of Dusseldorf, GER is 11-3.

Former belt holder, John Ryder stopped Jozef Jurrko in a scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout

In round four, Jurko began to bleed from his nose. In round five, Ryder continued to pound away at an overmatched Jurko and the fight was stopped at 1:29.

Ryder of England is now 30-5 with 17 knockouts. Jurko of Slovenia is 7-3.

John Hedges remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Frane Radnic.

Hedges won by a 60-54 score and is 3-0.

Filip Hrgovi? (12-0, 10 KOs) continues his World Title charge tomorrow night as he looks to take out a year of frustration on Marko Radonjic (22-0, 22 KOs) when the unbeaten Heavyweights collide at the Wörthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt, Austria, live on RTL in Croatia and DAZN in over 190 countries and territories worldwide.
 
Hrgovi? has become one of the most avoided men in boxing with all of the IBF top 15 turning down the opportunity to face him in a Final Eliminator to become mandatory challenger for Anthony Joshua’s Heavyweight crown.
 
The 29-year-old from Zagreb was last in action on November 7 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida where he handed American Heavyweight Rydell Booker his first stoppage loss, and after almost a year of inactivity, ‘El Animal’ is ready to be let loose in Klagenfurt.
 
“I’m very happy to be back in the ring,” said Hrgovi?, who weighed in today at 112kg (17st 8lbs 15oz). “It’s been a tough year. We’ve had a lot of problems finding opponents so I’m thankful to Marko for accepting this challenge. He is obviously a brave guy to be willing to fight me when a lot of top heavyweights refused. I’ve been in training camp for almost a year. I’ve done a lot of sparring and I’m in great shape. I just feel sorry for my opponent because I am going to put a year of preparation into this fight. Tomorrow night El Animal is back!”
 
“I’m expecting a good fight,” said the ‘Montenegro Hammer’ Radonjic, who tipped the scales at 113kg (17st 11lbs 2oz). “Filip is one of the best heavyweights in the world. He had a good amateur career, but so did I. People say I have a strong punch, but that’s not everything in boxing. It’s good to have 22 wins and all by knockout, but I have other strengths too. I’ve come here to fight. Filip is good, but I am too. Remember that. Let’s get ready to rumble.”
 
“Fans can look forward to a spectacular night of Heavyweight boxing tomorrow at the Wörthersee Stadium,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “When I saw Marko Radonjic’s record, I thought it was a typo – 22 wins, all by KO, is something you just don’t see in Heavyweight boxing. Filip has been looking for an opponent for the last 9 months, the whole IBF top 15 turned down the challenge so credit to Marko for taking the fight. I know Filip can’t wait to get back in the ring and back to what he does best.”
 
The IBF International Heavyweight Title contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Marko Radonjic headlines an action-packed event at the Wörthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt, Austria promoted by Wasserman Boxing and Matchroom Boxing in association with SEH Sports and Entertainment Holding.
 
Tickets are available via https://www.snapticket-live.de/battleofthegiants

Unbeaten heavyweights Filip Hrgovi? (12-0, 10 KOs) and Marko Radonjic (22-0, 22 KOs) clash in a ‘Battle of the Giants’ on September 10 at the Wörthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt, Austria for the IBF International Heavyweight Title, live on RTL in Croatia and DAZN in over 170 countries and territories worldwide.
 
Hrgovi?, the 29-year-old from Zagreb, Croatia, is one of the most feared fighters in the heavyweight division. He returns to action following a sensational knockout win over American heavyweight Rydell Booker on November 7 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medallist has his sights set on a World title fight with IBF ruler Anthony Joshua but knows he must first overcome Radonjic as he makes the maiden defence of his IBF International crown.
 
Radonjic, who is known as the ‘Montenegro Hammer’, holds an incredible record of 22 knockout wins from 22 contests. The 31-year-old from Cetinje, Montenegro, will face his toughest test against Hrgovi?, a man many are tipping as a future world champion, but is confident of maintaining his perfect record and taking home the IBF International strap.
 
“This is going to be a great fight between two top heavyweights,” said Hrgovi?. “I have a lot of respect for Radonjic for taking this fight when many wouldn’t. I’m excited to box at the Wörthersee Stadium. I expect a lot of Croatians to travel to support me and I look forward to fighting in front of the Austrian fans too. Radonjic has a good record, he has won all his fights by knockout, but he has never fought anyone like me. On September 10, he will feel my power and the ‘Montenegro Hammer’ will fall!”
 
“Filip Hrgovi? is a great fighter and I’m really looking forward to fighting him,” says Radonjic. “It will be an exciting fight between two big punching heavyweights. I know Hrgovi? is a good boxer but I’m confident I can beat him. I will take the IBF International Title home with me. The ‘Montenegro Hammer’ is coming to win!”
 
The IBF International Heavyweight Title contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Marko Radonjic headlines an action-packed event at the Wörthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt, Austria promoted by Wasserman Boxing and Matchroom Boxing in association with SEH Sports and Entertainment Holding.
 
Kalle Sauerland, Head of Global Boxing at Wasserman, said: “We’re delighted to bring the ‘Battle of the Giants’ to the Wörthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt. This is going to be a sensational night of heavyweight action. Filip Hrgovi? is the most avoided heavyweight on the planet. He is the man no one wants to fight and for good reason! In the opposite corner, we have the ‘Montenegro Hammer’, another unbeaten fighter with a perfect record of 22 fights and 22 knockouts. This is a real treat for boxing fans. Two top heavyweights with dynamite in their fists. This fight is not going the distance. Expect fireworks on September 10!”
 
Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn, said: “Filip Hrgovi? is one of the most avoided men in the Heavyweight division and finding an opponent with the courage to step in the ring with him has been a challenge. Virtually the whole of the IBF top 15 turned down the opportunity to face him in a Final Eliminator. It’s great to see the Croatian contender in action against the undefeated ‘Montenegro Hammer’ Marko Radonjic. Both men hold perfect records and I’m expecting an explosive Heavyweight fight in Austria on September 10.”
 
Zeljko Karajica for SEH Sports and Entertainment Holding, said: “Filip has been training hard these last months and can’t wait to enter the Wörthersee Stadium. There are a lot of Croatians living around Klagenfurt who will be there to support him and many more travelling from Croatia. The fans can look forward to another explosive performance from Filip as he shows why he is the most exciting fighter in the heavyweight division today.”
 
Tickets are on sale now and available via https://www.snapticket-live.de/battleofthegiants

Devin Haney retained the WBC Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa at the Seminold Hard Rock Resort in Hollywood, Florida.

Haney was dominant throughout the contest as kept Gamboa at bay by landing jabs and right hands.

In round 11, Gamboa was docked a point for holding.

Haney landed 133 of 401 punches. Gamboa was 84 of 472.

Haney, 135 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 120-107 twice and 118-109 to raise his udefeated mark to 25-0. Gamboa, 135 lbs of Miami, FL is 30-4.

“I’m pleased with the performance because I didn’t take any punishment,” said Haney. “I came out of there looking like I did when I went in, I was ready to fight again if I had to.
 
“I knew that he would go into survival mode and he was successful with that, he was in there trying to survive as much as he did. I pitched a shut-out and I didn’t get hit with any big shots, it is what it is. 
 
“Of course I wanted the KO but every fight can’t end like that. Gamboa is a crafty opponent, he showed that he can survive, he showed why he has been in the game for a long time. Anyone that has knocked him out has taken punishment while doing it, I didn’t take any punishment and maybe that’s why I didn’t get the KO.
 
“I beat him the smartest. The jab, the reach, the speed and the ring IQ were the keys to victory. I showed that I am able to go 12 rounds, to hit and not get hit, you can talk about landing big shots but Gamboa didn’t land anything.
 
“There’s always going to be pressure, every fight is going to have everyone watching and critiquing what you do, I understand that. I am ready to put on a big 2021 and fight best and put on a statement to show the world that I am the best.
 
“I am interested in my mandatory of course but I want all the belts, Teofimo Lopez has the rest of the belts so I want to make the undisputed fight.”

Hrgovic stops Booker in 5

Filip Hrgovic remained undefeated with a 5th round stoppage over Rydell Booker in a heavyweight bout.

In round two, Hrgovic dropped Booker with a chopping right to the head. Hrgovic continued to pound away at Booker until the bout was stopped at 47 seconds.

Hrgovic, 242.6 lbs of Zagreb, CRO is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Booker, 248 lbs of Detroit, MI is 26-3.

After the fight Hrgovic said “I have a message to the heavyweight division. Fight me. There are big fights out there, I am ready for all of them. I can out box and I can knockout. Tonight, Rydell was good and it was good to get the win against him, but now I want to look to who is next. I am ready.

Promoter Nisse Sauerland followed “Tonight we saw Filip do what he said he was going to do at the press conference. He was going to outbox and knockout a man who hadn’t been knocked out before. He showed his ability to control fights, he has 10 knockouts from 12 fights, 5 now consecutive.”

“Credit to Rydell Booker, he took the fight and tried to come forward. He’s a good boxer with a good record, but tonight he had no way of finding a way through. Filip belongs at the top table, and soon he’ll be there.”

Zhilel Zhang remained undefeated by stopping Devin Vargas in round four of a scheduled 10-round heavyweight fight.

In round four, Zhang landed a counter right and left that dropped Vargas, and the fight was over at 49 seconds.

Zhang, 259.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. Vargas, 226 lbs of Sylvania, OH is 22-7.

Reshat Mati stopped Marcos Mojica in round two of their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Mati dropped Mojica with a shirt left hook In round two, Mati dropped Mojica with an uppercut, and shortly thereafter, the fight was stopped at 44 seconds.

Mati, 146 lbs of Staten Island, NY is 8-0 with six knockouts. Mojica, 146.4 lbs of West Palm Beach , FL is 17-6-2.

Raymond Ford remained undefeated with a 3rd round stoppage over Rafael Reyes in a featherweight bout.

In round one, Ford dropped Reyes with a straight left. In round three, it was another left that sent Reyes to the canvas. Ford then landed about 12 unanswered punches, and the fight was stopped at 1:26.

Ford, 125.8 lbs of Camden, NJ is 7-0 with three knockouts. Reyes, 123 lbs of Clovis, MX is 18-11.

Arthur Biyarslanov stopped Juan Jose Martinez in round one of a scheduled six-round super lightweight fight.

Biyarslanov dropped Martinez with a right hook to the side of the head and the fight was stopped at 59 seconds.

Biyarslanov, 141 lbs of Toronto, CAN is7-0 with six knockouts. Martinez, 141.8 lbs of Mexico City is 28-10.

Filip Hrgovi? (11-0-9 KOs) weighed in at 110kg (242.6lbs) on Friday, ahead of his clash with Rydell Booker (26-3-13 KOs) in Hollywood, Florida this Saturday, as the Croatian seeks a fifth straight knockout victory. His opponent Booker weighed 112.4kg (248lbs).

‘El Animal’ has declared he “will not be friends” with Rydell Booker and that he aims “to finish him” when they meet in the ring this Saturday, insinuating he’ll be seeking another highlight reel finish against the man who went the distance with Kubrat Pulev last time out.

Coming face to face with Booker for the final time before fight night, Hrgovic said “I’m feeling very well, I want to thank my coach Pedro Diaz for preparing me very well and to the organizations Eddie Hearn and Team Sauerland and my manager.  I’m feeling very good and happy to be here.”

“You’re going to see a great performance (tomorrow night), before the knockout I need to out box him, I will not just knock him out, I will out box first, and show my boxing ability.”

When asked who he would like next, ‘El Animal’ said “I want to come out on top, I want to become champion. Which way we’re going to go, no one knows, it is up to my management and promoter to match me up with the best in the division and I feel ready for everyone”. 

Promoter Nisse Sauerland has previously described his fighter as “the best in the heavyweight division”, and stood by him again after the weigh in.

“He’s sensational” said Sauerland, who predicts a big 2021 for the Croatian powerhouse, “he’s light on his feet, heavy in his hands and when you combine his heart and his boxing intelligence you have a champion in the making. We believe he will impress again on Saturday night and it is only a matter of time before he is going for major honours.”

Filip Hrgovic faces slippery heavyweight Rydell Booker on November 7th, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Florida, live on DAZN in the USA and RTL in Croatia, as a world title charge in 2021 beckons.
 
‘El Animal’ heads into the fight with a perfect record, 11 fights, 11 wins, 9 by way of huge knockout – a streak he says will continue into 2021. The man in his way went the distance with Kubrat Pulev last time out, in a tough fight where he took rounds off the man next up for Anthony Joshua, Hrgovic says that won’t happen this time.
 
“He will not hear the final bell” said the Croatian, “I want to get this job done early, and I believe I can do that. I hit harder than Kubrat Pulev, I move faster than him. I believe Rydell had some successes against Pulev, against me he’ll have none.”
 
“I have sparred with him before, but this won’t be like sparring. The heavyweight division is very exciting right now, with a lot of big names – I am here to come out on top of those names.”
 
With eye catching wins against Eric Molina and Alexandre Kartozia, the latter being an eye watering knockout of the year contender, Hrgovic is one of the most talked about fighters in the division, with Gypsy King Tyson Fury touting him as “a future World Champion”.
 
Promoter Nisse Sauerland is backing his fighter to continue his ruthless streak and go through the gears next year.
 
“It’s the heavyweight division, the most exciting, most discussed, most powerful division of them all, and Filip Hrgovic is making a charge to the top of it.
 
It isn’t just his power, but the way he can adapt, he’s big, tall and strong but he’s also quick and light on his feet. He’s quick on his feet, very dangerous and has more heart than anyone in the division.
 
It’s only a matter of time before we see him causing real problems for the biggest guys out there on the world scene.”

Filip Hrgovi? (11-0, 9 KOs) will face Rydell Booker (26-3, 13 KOs) on November 7th behind closed doors at the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Florida, live on DAZN in the US and RTL in Croatia.

The Croatian heavyweight sensation known as ‘El Animal’ will fight for the second time in just three months following a spectacular second-round knockout win against Alexandre Kartozia last Saturday in Struer, Denmark.

The 2016 Olympic Bronze medallist returns to America for the second time in his paid career, having previously claimed a stunning first-round knockout victory over Gregory Corbin at the MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

Hrgovi? will be looking to extend his four fight KO streak as he squares off against former sparring partner Booker, the Detroit-native, who pushed World title challenger Kubrat Pulev to a points decision last November in Fresno.  

“I can’t wait to go back to America to fight again,” said the 28-year-old from Zagreb. “Booker is a skilful fighter. He had a good fight with Kubrat Pulev. He went the distance and won the first few rounds. I think I can do better. I want to make a statement and finish the fight early.

“Booker was one of my sparring partners before I fought Gregory Corbin. I know him well and he knows me, so I’m looking forward to the fight. He has good skills and technique, but I will be better prepared and in better shape. I don’t think he’ll be able to handle my power and my pressure!”

Hrgovi?’s promoter Nisse Sauerland believes a busy end to 2020 will be the perfect preparation for a World title assault in 2021, as he predicts another knockout performance from the Croatian giant. 

“Filip has the style to trouble every heavyweight in division,” said Sauerland. “He has dynamite in both hands as he showed in his last fight, and I think he will demonstrate that power again against Booker. It’s important for Filip to stay busy as we’re expecting a huge 2021 for him. He’s ready for the World title.”

Zeljko Karajica, Hrgovi?’s manager, said: “After his knockout of the year against Kartozia, I’m happy to have Filip back in the ring so quickly. He is very excited to fight in America once again and we are looking forward to him putting on a show on November 7th for the US fight fans.”

Hrgovi?, who is co-promoted by Team Sauerland and Matchroom Boxing, fights as part of a huge night of boxing in Florida that features American star Devin Haney defending his WBC World Lightweight title against Yuriorkis Gamboa.

Filip Hrgovi? (10-0, 8 KOs) will have a new opponent on Saturday night as he will now face off against Greece’s Alexandre Kartozia (8-1-1, 7 KOs) at the Struer Energi Park in Denmark, who has replaced Ondrej Pala.

Following a short notice withdrawal from Pala and with no time to spare, Team Sauerland are delighted to confirm that the heavy handed Kartozia has accepted the fight and will arrive in Denmark shortly.

Kartozia will be fighting for the second time this year having secured a third round knockout victory over Mexico’s Manuel Duran at the Big Punch Arena in Tijuana on January 25th.

“People think he is scary because he has a good amateur career and his nickname is The Animal,” said Kartozia. “Well, I fear no man. He has never felt power like I have and I hope he overlooks me, because this Saturday night I will create history and change the future.”

“Obviously a short notice change of opponent is never ideal for the fighter,” said Promoter Nisse Sauerland. “It is difficult enough to find opponents for Filip at the best of times, but especially during the current situation.

“Kartozia says he is going to fight fire with fire and that he is a true gladiator, so we are sure both men will put on a great show and the fans at the Struer Energi Park Arena will not be disappointed.”

Hrgovi? vs Kartozia is as a co-feature to local hero Dina Thorslund (14-0, 6 KOs) in Struer as she defends her WBO Female World Super Bantamweight Championship against Serbian challenger Nina Radovanovic (14-3, 3 KOs).

The return of live boxing will also see Team Sauerland’s latest signing Oliver Zaren (2-0, 2 KOs) will make his promotional debut against Volodymyr Romanenko (9-9, 8 KOs) and exciting Danish prospects Oliver Mollenberg (5-0-1, 3 KOs), Payman Akbari (1-0, 1 KO) & Jacob Bank (Pro-debut) also feature on the undercard.

Croatian heavyweight sensation Filip Hrgovi? (10-0, 8 KOs) will return to the ring on September 26th against Ondrej Pala (33-5, 23 KOs) at the Struer Energi Park in Denmark.  

The Olympic Bronze Medalist was last in action against on December 7th when he knocked out the former World title challenger Eric Molina inside 3 rounds to retain his WBC International title as part of a huge night of action at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

Hrgovi? says he is excited to step back into the squared circle as he looks to continue his journey to the top with an active end to the year.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring. I haven’t boxed in 10 months,” says the explosive 28-year-old from Zagreb. “I need to be active and I need to have fights, so it’s very important for me to fight soon.

“I’m looking forward to fighting in Denmark, I’ve never been there. I’ve fought in a lot of countries around the world but never in Denmark so I’m excited to conquer a new territory. 

“If this fight goes well for me, I’ll fight again in the United States so I already have two fights scheduled in two months. If everything goes well there, then I hope to fight again at the end of 2020. 

“I think I’m a better fighter and I think I’m the best in the world, but I will take this fight seriously and prepare myself like I’m going to fight for a world championship.”

Pala, who returned to the amateur ranks in an attempt to represent his country at the Tokyo Olympics, intends to do his talking in the ring.

“During my career I’ve made dozens of pre-fight statements and I’ve had enough,” said the 36-year-old from Prague. “Everything I want to say will be said after the first bell. I love this sport and I’m coming to fight.”  

Promoter Nisse Sauerland is delighted to see the Croatian heavyweight hope back in action as live crowds return to boxing in Denmark.

“It’s important for Filip to be active, so after COVID delayed our plans we want to ensure he’s fighting as regularly as possible,” said Sauerland. “We have big plans for 2021, and a victory on September 26th and then fighting in the United States will set us up perfectly.”

“It’s great to have Filip back in action – and with two fights in quick succession,” said Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Boxing.

“Filip always brings bad intentions to the ring but after another destructive performance in Saudi Arabia, he’s been itching to return and as Nisse says, keeping Filip active is vital as he solidifies his status as a top ten Heavyweight and true threat to the big guns at the weight.

Said Hrgovi?’s manager Zeljko Karajica: “Filip has been training hard so he’s ready for his next fights this year. He’s a guy who loves fighting and wants to be as active as possible so it’s exciting to see him back in the ring doing what he does best.  2020 may not have started as planned but it’s going to end with some great victories for Filip as he continues to close in on the World titles. 

Hrgovi? fights as a co-feature to local hero Dina Thorslund (14-0, 6 KOs) in Struer as she defends her WBO Female World Super Bantamweight Championship against Serbian challenger Nina Radovanovic (14-3, 3 KOs).

Filip Hrgovi? will take on Jerry Forrest and Daniyar Yeleussinov will meet Julius Indongo in big step-up bouts for the talented pair on Friday April 17 at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, live on DAZN.
TICKETS START AT JUST $43 (PLUS FEES)
Hrgovi? (10-0 8 KOs) made his debut under the Sauerland-Matchroom Boxing USA co-promotional banner in the same venue in May, hammering Gregory Corbin in the first round in his first defense of his WBC International title, and has added two more big KO wins since then, stopping Mario Heredia in Mexico in August in three rounds and then needing under nine minutes once again to blast away former World title challenger Eric Molina in Saudi Arabia in December.

Hrgovi? expects tough resistance from Forrest (26-3 20 KOs) in his first fight in 2020, with the Virginia man having ran unbeaten Jermaine Franklin close in July and returning to action in September to record his 20^thKO win from 23 fights. 

“I am looking forward to getting back in the ring,” said Hrgovi?. “I have good memories from fighting at the MGM National Harbor. This is where I made my American debut when I knocked out Gregory Corbin in the first round, and I’ve been training hard to give the fans another exciting performance on April 17.

“Jerry Forrest is a good boxer. He is a southpaw with a good record, and I’m expecting a tough fight, but I’m confident I will beat him.

“2019 was a great year for me. I fought in America, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. I had three fights against three strong opponents and got three knockouts wins. This year will be even better. My goal has always been to become World Champion, and I’m now closing in on that goal. I’m coming for belts!”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland said: “Filip is in fantastic shape and ready to start his 2020 campaign in style. Last time out at the MGM National Harbor he introduced himself to the American fight fans with an explosive first-round knockout, and they can expect a similar display this time round. Whenever Filip steps into the ring you’re guaranteed excitement. He is the future of the Heavyweight division and it’s only a matter of time before he’s fighting for World honors.”

Yeleussinov (9-0 5 KOs) looked explosive in his last two outings of 2019, hammering Reshard Hicks inside the opening round of their September clash in New York before stopping Alan Sanchez in the fifth round of their clash in Phoenix in September. 

The Kazakhstan 2016 Olympic gold medal man now faces a stiff test of his talents in his first action of 2020 against Indongo (23-2 12 KOs). The rangy Namibian rose to prominence in December 2016 when his stunning first round one-punch KO win saw him rip the WBO World Super-Lightweight title from Russia’s Eduard Troyanovsky in Moscow and then unified the division against Scotland’s three-weight World champion Ricky Burns in Glasgow in April 2017.

The 37 year old faced Terence Crawford for the undisputed Super-Lightweight title in August 2017 and then met former World Super-Lightweight champion and Maryland headliner Regis Prograis in March 2018. Indongo fell to both champions but bounced back with a 12^th career KO win in Alabama in August, and Yeleussinov has vowed to shine against the former World ruler.

“This is the most important fight of my career,” said Yeleussinov. “I had a great end to the year, and I feel I am building real momentum in the pro game now, but this is a big leap in quality of opponent. Julius is a former unified World champion and has huge experience at the very top level, so I will need to put on a career-best performance to keep my run going.”

One of Matchroom Boxing USA’s bright young talents joins Hrgovic and Yeleussinov in the shape of Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs), who will be eager to build on an explosive performance in December in destroying Francisco Mura in the first round in Phoenix.

“This is a big night in the careers of Filip Hrgovic and Daniyar Yeleussinov,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Filip is a big problem for the Heavyweight division. The Croat is gaining valuable experience with every camp and fight, and all eyes will be on the 27 year old in Maryland as he looks to make another statement in boxing’s glamour division.

“Daniyar is really growing in the paid ranks and has been impressive in his recent outings, but Julius Indongo is a big step-up for the ‘Kazakh Thunder’. The former unified World champion will look to carry his power up to 147lbs so Daniyar will be under pressure to both impress again and stave off the attack of the dangerous Indongo.

“Our young stable of fighters is the best in the States, and Raymond continues his pro education on what promises to be another exciting night of action on DAZN.”

Tickets are currently on general sale now starting at just $43 (plus fees) via Ticketmaster. 

Following a blockbuster year for Croatian heavyweight sensation Filip Hrgovi? (10-0, 8 KOs) and German teenage prodigy Sophie Alisch (5-0, 1 KO) both have been nominated for the WBC’s ‘Prospect of the Year’ Award for 2019.

Hrgovi? started the year in style, marking his American debut with a first-round knockout win over Gregory Corbin at the MGM National Harbor in Maryland, successfully defending his WBC International title for the first time.

‘El Animal’ then headed to Hermosillo, where he made quick work of local hero Mario Heredia. The referee waved off proceedings one minute into the third round following a brutal attack that sent the Mexican tumbling to the canvas.

The Olympic Bronze medalist then continued his impressive campaign on the biggest card of the year as he faced two-time World title challenger Eric Molina on the undercard of Joshua-Ruiz 2 in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. Hrgovi? once again ruled supreme as he forced the stoppage in the third round having dropped the American multiple times on route to sealing his tenth professional win.

Now ranked seventh with the WBC, eighth with the IBF and fifteenth with the WBO, Hrgovi? is considered one of the hottest prospects in the heavyweight division as he closes in on a World title shot in 2020. 

“Myself and my team are very satisfied with 2019,” said Hrgovi?. “I got three good wins, made my debut in America, fought in Mexico and I got to fight on the most anticipated fight night of the year in Saudi Arabia.

“The highlight of 2019 was fighting on the Ruiz Joshua 2 card. The whole world was waiting to see what was going to happen and it was a huge honour to be part of such a show. I will take 2020 step by step and continue my winning streak.”

18-year-old Alisch has been nominated in the women’s category following a magnificent 2019 that began with a knockout victory on her professional debut on February 16th in Koblenz, and concluded with an eight-round shutout points victory over two-time World title challenger Irma Adler in November.

Alisch, who won all five fights in her maiden year as a professional, is keeping her feet on the ground and hopes a successful 2020 will edge her closer to achieving her ultimate dream of becoming World Champion.

“2019 was a fantastic year for me. I got a knockout on my professional debut and ended the year with 5 victories, but we are only just beginning,” said Alisch.

“Making my debut was incredibly special for me, it was the first step towards my dream of becoming a World Champion. 2019 was full of highlights but you are only as good as your last fight. I prefer to look forward than backwards.

“My goal has been the same since I started boxing – to become a World Champion. 2020 is about chasing dreams. I want to thank everyone who has helped me on my journey so far and I look forward to sharing more success with you in the future.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland was pleased to see two of Team Sauerland’s brightest stars among the WBC’s nominations for their annual awards, and predicts 2020 will bring even greater success for the talented duo.  

“It’s great to see the WBC recognising Filip and Sophie for their fantastic achievements in 2019,” said Sauerland. 

“We see Filip as a contender rather than prospect as he is becoming a global star. He boxed in three different countries last year and won all of them by knockout. 2020 will be an even greater year. It’s now just a matter of time until he fights for a world title.

“Sophie has made a blistering start to her professional career. She knocked out her opponent in the first minute of her debut and she hasn’t slowed down since. She has only just turned 18 and is already beating World title challengers. She is known as ‘The Future’ in Germany and we expect her to be the face of female boxing for many years to come.”

Anthony Joshua regained the IBF/WBA/WBO Heavyweight titles with a 12-round unanimous decision over Andy Ruiz Jr. in a rematch for their June 1st fight. The bout took place in Saudi Arabia.

Drama started early as Joshua caught Ruiz in round one with a right hand that opened up a cut around Ruiz left eye. In round two, Joshua was cut over his left eye.

Joshua showed a different style then the way he fought in his 1st 22 fights, as he boxed and moved throughout the whole fight. Ruiz landed a couple of left hooks, but it was Joshua, who worked behind a great jab and he mixed in some ripping right hands and an occasional left hook. Neither man was in any danger of being in trouble .

Joshua won by scores of 119-109 and 118-110 twice. Joshua, 237 lbs of London is now 23-1. Ruiz, 283.7 lbs of Imperial Valley, CA is 33-2.

Anthony Joshua

On his performance: “Man, the first time was so nice – I had to do it twice! A man like me don’t make no excuses, my boy Derek Chisora said I could do this if I am ready to D-I-E. And look, this is about boxing. I am used to knocking guys out. Last time, I hurt the man and I got caught coming in. I gave that man his credit. There was no excuses. I respect Andy and his family and his trainers so much. I just wanted to put on a great boxing masterclass and also show the sweet science of this lovely sport. It’s about hitting and not getting hit.”

On any mental changes: “Never a change in mentality. You know the saying, ‘Stay hungry, stay humble.’ I have stayed hungry and I have stayed humble. I am humble in defeat and I will remain humble in victory. Thank you again to Andy Ruiz and his family, to Saudi Arabia and all of the traveling fans, all of my supporters.”

On handling Andy Ruiz’s pressure: “It’s all about preparation. Like I said, one day when I release a book I will walk through my career’s experience. It’s just about creating great memories. I took my L and I bounced back. Life is a rollercoaster. I heard some people say that we should retire if we lose. Hey Andy, are you ready to retire? (Andy: ‘No way, let’s go again.’) Exactly, we are warriors.” 

On a third fight: “Without a doubt. If you heard, we are going to do a third. He beat me fair and square the first time and I beat him fair and square the second time. So we will do it again. 100%.”

On where this win ranks in his career: “I just want to say I have the utmost respect for Andy Ruiz who beat me fair and square in the first exam. I failed the first time, but I came back and studied hard and passed this time. But this ranks second. The first would be my fight against Wladimir Klitschko. It means so much to me and I learned so much from that fight. I respect Wladimir so much and he gives me so much advice still. This fight ranks number two though.”

On being disciplined in this fight: “I know that my fans like to see me knock people out and I can do that but sometimes with certain fighters you have to box smarter.”

On fighting Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury: “What can I say? I have been speaking about these guys a long time. You see this time, when I had the opportunity to just focus solely on Andy,  my head is in the right place. When Wilder, Fury, Ortiz and Usyk are really ready, they will make the call. Until then, I respect them. I won’t continue to call them out. I am making my own lane and if they want to be a part of that, they will call. Ruiz did it and created a legacy. If those guys want to do it, they can create a legacy too. Look at all I have done, come on. When I call them out and do all of that, I lose focus.”

Andy Ruiz Jr

On his performance: “It was his night. I don’t think I prepared as good as I should have. I gained too much weight but I don’t want to give no excuses. He won, he boxed me around but if we do the third, best believe I will come in the best shape of my life.”

On his higher weight being an issue: “It kind of affected me a lot. I thought I would come in stronger and better. But you know what, next time I am going to prepare better with my team. This time I tried to train myself at times to get prepared but no excuses. Anthony Joshua did a hell of a job. Thanks to everyone in Saudi Arabia who supported.” 

On pressuring AJ: “I think I was chasing him too much instead of cutting off the ring. I just felt like I couldn’t throw my combinations. But who wants to see this third fight?”

Eddie Hearn

On what’s next: “We are going to celebrate. Anthony Joshua is an amazing ambassador for the sport. He has given everything to this sport. Tonight, in Saudi Arabia, he becomes the two-time Heavyweight Champion of the World and that is beautiful.

On his performance: “It was an absolute masterclass. He was able to stay disciplined. People have doubted his boxing ability, his endurance. He was humiliated at Madison Square Garden. It was the American coming out party and it was ruined. He could have brushed himself down and went off. Instead he came back and put on that performance and it was beautiful. That’s the sweet science. That was like Picasso on a canvas, paining a masterpiece.”

On Anthony’s comeback: “They wrote him off. They said he was all hype. He had to come back from humiliation at Madison Square Garden. Tonight, he is the governor. The governor of the division.”

On fighting in Saudi Arabia: “We got criticized for coming here but these people have been amazing. The vision they have for boxing in this region is incredible and they delivered.

On AJ becoming undisputed Heavyweight champion: “Tonight is about becoming the two-time Heavyweight Champion of the World. We can talk about that later. We’ve wanted the undisputed for years and years. We will do what Anthony wants to do and he’s always wanted to be undisputed. People listen to rubbish that he doesn’t want it and you know what, we won’t give them this. We aren’t even going to give them the airtime. He is the king. They wrote him off and said he all hype but look, he’s back. He is the king again. He is the one who continues to step up – Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder’s resume don’t even stack up. They world stopped to watch Anthony Joshua become the two-time World Heavyweight Champion today and it was all live on DAZN, baby.”

On fighting Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury: “Anthony has been chasing them for years. Those fights will happen. Maybe they were right to walk away from those fights back then because the fight is worth much more now. AJ wants the legacy. He created that legacy tonight in Saudi Arabia. He sells out arenas around the world. He is transforming boxing. These other guys can’t lace his boots! He is only 24 fights in and he is only going to get better.”

Michael Hunter and former world champion Alexander Povetkin battled to a spirited 12-round split draw.

Both guys were hurt and wobbled during the fight.

Each fighter won a scored card by a 115-113 margin, and a 3rd card was 114-114.

Povetkin, 229.3 lbs of Russia is 35-2-1. Hunter, 226.8 lbs of Las Vegas is 18-1-1.

Dillian Whyte won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Mariusz Wach in a heavyweight bout.

Whyte won the fight be working the body and landing some hard right hands. Wach landed a few hard rights throughout the contest.

Whyte, 271.1 lbs of London won by scores of 98-93 and 97-93 twice and is now 27-1. Wach, 270 lbs of Krackow, POL is 35-6.

Filip Hrgovic stopped former two-time world title challenger in round three of a scheduled 12-round heavyweight bout.

Hrgovic dropped Molina in round’s one and two, but referee Ian John Lewis ruled the shots were behind the head. later in round two, Hrgovic was credited with a knockdown after landing a thudding right to the body. In round three, Hrgovc landed a hard right to head that sent Molina down for the count at 2:03

Hrgovic, 241.1 lbs of Zagreb, CRO is 10-0 with eight knockouts. Molina, 248 lbs of Rio Grande, TX is 27-6.

“This is war, man. You use all your weapons,” said Hrgovi?. “I am ready for anyone, I want to fight the biggest names in the division, and I hope these warriors will accept.

“AJ and Wilder took longer to knock him out so I’ve made a statement. There were some technical mistakes so I still need to improve, but I have the best chin in the division. He gave me 3 or 4 of his best punches and never hurt me once.

“I would like to box in the UK. Give me the biggest names, Chisora, Whyte, I will fight anyone. I can be a World Champion in my next few fights.”

Mahammadrasul Majidov stopped Tom Little in round two of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Majidov landed a huge chopping right to the head that sent Majidov to the canvas. Little tried to fight back, but continued to take punishment and hard combination forced a referee stoppage at 1:49.

Majidov, 231 lbs of Baku, AZN is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Little, 251 lbs of Hatfield, UK is 10-9.

Hopey Price stopped Sweti Mohamed in the 3rd round of their four-round bantamweight bout.

Price, 125.9 lbs of Leeds, UK is 2-0 with one stoppage. Mohamed, 125.1 lbs of Tanzania is 12-7-2.

Diego Pacheco destroyed Selemani Said in the 1st round of their scheduled four-round super middleweight bout.

Pacheco dropped Saidi with a vicious right that sent Saidi down for several minutes.

Pacheco, 167.1 lbs of South Central Los Angeles is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Saidi, 166.8 lbs of Tanania is 20-16-5.

Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) is weighed in and ready for his WBC International Heavyweight Title defence against former two-time World Title challenger Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) tomorrow night at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

Hrgovi?, who fights on the undercard of the huge heavyweight rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua, tipped the scales at 109.32 kg, while his opponent Molina came in heavier at 112.49 kg. 

“I feel very good,” said Hrgovi?. “This is my biggest fight so far but I believe 100% that I can beat him if I put in my very best performance. I don’t think it will be easy but I am ready. I can throw a lot of punches, I have fast hands and I can take a punch, if necessary. I know I have the skillset to win.”

Hrgovi? is backing Joshua to regain his belts in Saturday’s main event, and having already earned top ten rankings, the 27-year-old is aware his World Title shot could come soon, but acknowledges first he must get past Molina. 

“I think Joshua wasn’t himself in the first fight,” he says. “You could see he was under pressure. I think the things around him, the money and fame, took a part and he lost focus. Now, I think he has that back and he will win the rematch and show that he is a big champion. If he doesn’t win, I expect him to retire.

“In boxing anything can happen. Andy Ruiz was only one place ahead of me when his chance came and he took advantage of it. I’m already top ten in the rankings so my chance could come very soon, but first I must win on Saturday.”

“Filip looks in great shape,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “He is fully focused and ready to go. This is a great opportunity for him to announce himself on the World stage. We believe he is the best fighter in the heavyweight division and tomorrow night he has the chance to show that.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia. Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK.

Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) came face to face with his opponent Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) for the first time at today’s ‘Clash On The Dunes’ press conference at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia ahead of Saturday night’s historic boxing event.

Hrgovi?, who won Bronze at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, continues his global tour of 2019 by boxing in a third different country, having already claimed memorable knockout wins over Gregory Corbin and Mario Heredia in the United States and Mexico earlier this year.

The 27-year-old, defending his WBC International Heavyweight crown, must now overcome his toughest career test as he goes in search of his tenth professional victory against the former two-time World Title challenger Molina.

“He trained for eight weeks, I trained for twelve,” said Hrgovi?. “That’s a good thing for me! I trained like never before with my coach Pedro Diaz in Miami for eight weeks, and I had four weeks with my assistant coach Yousef Hasan in Zagreb, Croatia.

“I’m feeling very good and I’m ready for my biggest fight so far. Thank you to Matchroom Boxing, Eddie Hearn, Team Sauerland, Zeljko Karajica, Sky Sports and DAZN. It’s an honour for me to be part of this great event.”

The experienced American Molina has already fought twice for the World Heavyweight title, facing both Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua, and is confident his resilience can see him cause an upset on Saturday night.

“This is an iconic sporting event. An iconic rematch,” said Molina. “I’m extremely thankful to be part of this event. When you start your career 0-1 this is all just a bonus, it’s just beautiful to experience.”

“I’m the guy in the heavyweight division that just doesn’t go away. I call it the art of bouncing back. I find a way to stick around and on Saturday night I will find a way to stick around.”

The Croatian heavyweight sensation known as ‘El Animal’ is putting together an impressive resume after nine fights, and promoter Nisse Sauerland believes Hrgovi? is already the biggest talent in boxing’s glamour division.

“The biggest problem we have with Filip is finding heavyweights that will fight him,” said Sauerland. “Eric looks in great shape and we look forward to seeing his performance on Saturday, but I believe Filip is the best heavyweight out there.

“It’s great to be back in Saudi, last time I was here the crowd was great and I expect the same on Saturday night. I’m looking forward to showcasing Filip on such a great event and we are excited to end this years world tour with a big bang!”

Eddie Hearn for Matchroom Boxing says he is excited to see the 27-year-old Croatian in action in Saturday’s intriguing heavyweight clash.

“Filip Hrgovi? is one of the top young fighters coming through in the division right now. He was an outstanding amateur and he has great skills and a great team. I am delighted to be working with Team Sauerland co-promoting Filip and he’s up against a fighter who believes this is his time to relaunch himself on the world heavyweight scene.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia. Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK.

Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) has arrived in Saudi Arabia ahead of his WBC International Heavyweight Title clash with Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) on Saturday night at the Diriyah Arena on the undercard of the huge rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua for the IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World Titles.

The Croatian star says he is excited to showcase his skills on the biggest stage as he looks to claim his tenth professional win and continue his World Title push with victory over two-time World Title challenger Molina.

“It feels great to be here in Saudi Arabia,” said Hrgovi?, who took part in a public workout today with his coach Pedro Diaz. “I’m looking forward to fighting on such a big event. The whole world will be watching so this is a big opportunity for me to show everybody what I can do, and prove I’m ready to fight the best!

“I’ve had a great training camp. I spent four weeks in Zagreb with my conditioning coach Igor Cordas and boxing coach Yousef Hasan followed by eight weeks in Miami with Pedro Diaz. We trained like never before.

“To be a World Champion you have to be willing to fight all over the world. It is part of the job, and as I always say a ring is a ring no matter where it is. I’ve boxed all over the world as an amateur and I’m excited to fight in Saudi Arabia.

“I’m very satisfied with how my career is going. To have my tenth fight on such a big event is like a dream and I would like to thank my promoter Team Sauerland, Matchroom Boxing and my manager Zeljko Karajica for doing a great job.

“I have always said I want to fight the best in the division and me and my team will not avoid anyone. We offered Chisora to fight me when Joseph Parker cancelled their fight and they refused so I would like to fight him next.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia. Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK.