Follow all the action as Floyd Mayweather fights in his final fight of his career against Andre Berto.  The action kicks off at 6:30 PM ET / 3:30 PM PT with a 4 fight undercard that will feature 2 world title bouts

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Round 1 Mayweather suing the left..lead left hook.

Round 2 Right from Berto..

Round 3 Mayweather landing rights to body..Double jab from Berto

Round 4 Jab from Berto..Lead left from Mayweather..body..Hard right..

Round 5 Counter right from Berto..Right from Mayweather..

Round 6 Good counter left from Berto…Hard body shots from Mayweather..left uppercurt…right hand..

Round 7 Right uppercut in inside from Mayweather..Berto works the body with the left hook..Left from Berto..

Round 8 Mayweather lands a left uppercut…terrific combination..1-2..Counter left from Berto…

Round 9 Berto jabs to the body…Right over top from Mayweather…

Round 10 Both guys are talking to each other..

Round 11 Lead left hook from Mayweather,,good uppercut..Nice combination…

Round 12 2 huge uppercuts on the inside from Mayweather,,counter right..jab to the body…right over the op…left uppercut…

117-111, 118-110 and 120-108

Punch Stats

Mayweather  232 of 410    Berto 83 of 495

Round 1 Uppercut on inside from Martinez..Salido lands a combination…Combination from Martinez

Round 2 Hard right from Salido..combination..

Round 3 Right FROM SALIDO AND RULED A KNOCKDOWN..Jab from Martinez…LEFT AND DOWN GOES SALIDO..Big right from Martinez

Round 4 Huge right buckles Salido..Counter right from Salido..

Round 5 Hard right from Salido and a left hook..Jab from Martinez..

Round 6 terrific action…Salido pressing

Round 7 Jab from Salido..another jab..hook…

Round 8 Hard right from salido..

Round 9 Right from Martinez..Right from Salido on the inside..uppercut in the inside..Martinez lands a right..Hard combination by Salido…Hard combination,..

Round 10 Martinez landing hard shots in the counter…counter left hook and right from Salido..terrific exchange..

Round 11 Big right from Salido

Round 12 great infighting..Martinez lands a left hook….

115-113 Martinez, 115-113 Salido, 114-114—-DRAW

Punches Martinez: 189- 691    Salido 285- 1037

Round 1: Jack lands a jab..Double left hook and right from Groves..right..Good right…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN Goes groves…

Round 2 Jack lands a jab..combination from Groves..Body and right..Combination from Jack…Counter from Groves..

Round 3 Body shot from Goves…Trading jabs…1-2 from Jack..

Round 4 Groves lands a right over the top..right uppercut

Round 5 Right from Jack..Good right from Groves..

Round 6 1-2 from Jack..Jab and right from Groves..another right..

Round 7 Body shot from Jack…Hard right from Groves

Round 8 Hard right from Groves

Round 9 Good right from Jack…

Round 10 Groves lands a jab that buckles Jack..Sharp right from Jack..

Round 11 Left to the body from Jack..left hook to the jaw..

Round 12 Body work from Jack…Groves lands a right…trading good rights..Groves lands a hard right that sets off a great exchange

114-113 Groves; 115-112 Jack; 116-111 Jack

Punch stats: Jack 210- 506    Groves 154- 721

Round 1: Uppercut by Gonzalez..BIG UPPEERCUT AND DOWN GOES OQUENDO…

Round 2 Right uppercut from Gonzalez…3 punch combination…Blood over the right eye of Gonzalez..right from Oquendo…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN GOES GONZALEZ…Big left staggers Gonzalez…

Round 3 Good body work from Gonzalez..Straight right from Oquendo..Left hook…Combination from Gonzalez..Oquendo switches southpaw..Body shot from Oquendo..

Round 4 Combination from Oquendo..left hook..Jab to the body..left hook..right

Round 5 Left to body from Oquendo

Round 6: Overhand right from Oquendo..Triple Jab…Good right from Gonzalez..Nice Left

Round 7 Left hook from Gonzalez..Jab..Oquendo working the body…Gonzalez lands a hard right..

Round 8: Gonzalez cut over left eye from accidental headbutt…Left and right from Gonzalez..Jab…Jab from Oquendo drives Gonzalez to the corner..

Round 9 Doctor looking at cuts on Gonzalez…

Round 10 

94-94; 95-93 and 98-90 for Oquendo

Punch stats:  Gonzales –139 of 502    Oquendo: 100 of 455

Round 1: Good left from Smith

Round 2  Jab from Martiroysan…Combination..Right to the body..Counter left from Smith

Round 3:  2 shots to the body from Martirosyan..Left from Smith..Counter left..RiGHT FROM MARTIROSYAN AND RULED A KNOCKDOWN

Round 4:  Jab from Martirsyan…right…right to body from Smith,,,Nice right from Martirosyan..

Round 5:  Good combination from Smith..Good uppercut..Good combination..right lead..3 punch combination..counter right…

Round 6:  Good combination..right to body and left to the head..Body…Combination..

Round 7: Smith lanleft to head and left uppercut..lands a left..right

Round 8: Huge LEFT AND DOWN GOES SMITH

Round 9 Nice combination from Smith..good left to body and head..Swelling under the right eye of Martirosyan..Left..

Round 10  Good right from Smith

95-95; 97-91 two times Martirosyan

LONDON (9 Sept) – British ace George Groves says he’s ready to burst onto the world scene as he challenges for the WBC world title in Floyd Mayweather’s final bout.

The 27-year-old takes on super-middleweight champion Badou Jack this Saturday night, live and exclusive on BoxNation, on the undercard of pound-for-pound king Mayweather’s last fight against Haitian hard-hitter Andre Berto.

It’s been a whirlwind career for Londoner Groves who has twice fought for the world title, those being two defeats to rival Carl Froch, but having bounced back with two wins including capturing the European title he insists he is ready to now take the boxing world by storm.

“Every fight is more vital than that last, more important than the last and there’s more to lose, especially once you’ve lost,” said Groves.

“I came back after losing last year and won the European title, I became the mandatory of the WBC. Since then we’ve been rolling and waiting for our opportunity to fight for the WBC belt. We knew it would come so we’ve been patient with it.

“People will consider this a 50-50 match up. We’re going to go in there and show people that they couldn’t be further from the truth. We’re in a great place and we’re just ready to perform, to steal the show and arrive on the world scene.

“So all the pressures and all the excitement and everything else that goes with fighting for the world championship, I don’t feel any of it because to me, it’s just a fight,” Groves said.

Hammersmith hero Groves has spent the last two months training in the US at Big Bear Lake, undergoing gruelling mountain runs to whip him into shape.

Up against Jack he’ll face an opponent with a record of 19 wins, with just one loss and a draw on his record, but Groves insists the Swedish born fighter won’t be on his level.

“We have plenty of motivation up here in the mountains. We’re working hard. It’s been a lifelong dream to become world champion. We’re just concentrating on Badou Jack,” Groves said.

“This is a fight against a good guy, but a guy who is not as good as me. For that reason, we’re just looking forward to getting in there and performing. And winning and everything that goes with it.

“Without trying to give too much away about the game plan, we know Jack’s strengths. We know his weaknesses. We plan to go in there, nullify his strengths and expose the weaknesses.

“But we’re in phenomenal shape. First we came up here, I was in good shape. I was struggling to breathe because of the altitude. But now, we are flying. We’re getting better results than we do back in London when we’re out in flat land and there’s more oxygen.

“We’re going to go bring the fight to Badou Jack. Make sure he works for every second of every round. From there on in, the game plan will develop,” he said.

31-year-old Jack, a Mayweather Promotions fighter, came to prominence with his majority decision victory over Anthony Dirrell in April of this year to win the WBC world title.

The 168-pound champion is unfazed at Groves’ confidence going into the bout and says he will do his big talking in the ring.

“For me it’s just another fight. I’m not a trash talker. I don’t get into all that trying to get into your mind and stuff,” said Jack.

“I’m staying focused on winning the fight. I might seem like a quiet guy or something like that, but come fight night, in the ring, it’s going to be a different story.

“It’s a 50-50 fight and I think that’s where you don’t know who’s going to win. That’s what makes it so exciting. I believe I’m the better fighter and I’m 110 percent confident that I’m going to win this fight,” he said.

Mayweather v Berto / Groves v Jack is live on BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD, Virgin 525 and TalkTalk 415) this Saturday night at 1am. Visit boxnation.com to subscribe.

LOS ANGELES – (Aug. 28, 2015) – Two-time welterweight world champion Andre Berto (30-3, 23 KOs) participated in a media workout at the J.W. Marriott at L.A. Live as he prepares for the biggest fight of his career. In front of an enthusiastic crowd, Berto looked focused and in great shape, jumping rope and shadowboxing, as he looks to become the first fighter to defeat 12-time world champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs), on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas live on SHOWTIME PPV® (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).

In addition to Berto, top 168-pound contender George Groves and former three-time world champion Jhonny Gonzalez participated in the media workout as they prepare for their respective fights on the SHOWTIME PPV broadcast.

The training session was hosted by TV & CBS Radio personality Big Tigger and Emmy® Award-winning sports reporter Mark Kriegel and streamed in high definition across multiple platforms, including via satellite feed, YouTube and social media.

Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, the Sept. 12 four-fight pay-per-view telecast will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and is the sixth and final fight of a record-breaking deal between Mayweather and Showtime Networks Inc. SHOWTIME Sports® will support the event with the Sports Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESS.

In world championship fights on the pay-per-view telecast, Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO Junior Lightweight title in a rematch against four-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs), and Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will make the initial defense of his WBC Super Middleweight World title against mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs). The opening fight of the telecast will feature former three-time world champion and Mexican power-puncher Jhonny Gonzalez (58-9, 49 KOs) against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (25-4, 16 KOs) in a 10-round junior lightweight scrap.

Plus, former 154-pound world champion Ishe Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) will be opposed by longtime top-five contender Vanes Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs) in the 90-minute COUNTDOWN LIVE: MAYWEATHER vs. BERTO” preshow on Saturday, September 12.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC., are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300 and $150 and are on sale now. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per household for all ticket prices except the $150 ticket category, which is limited to four (4) per household. To charge by phone or with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

What Berto, Berto’s trainer, Virgil Hunter, George Groves, Jhonny Gonzalez and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe said Friday:

Andre Berto

“From an energy aspect I feel great. It’s my first time in a while coming into a fight with no injuries. This is the healthiest I’ve been since I can remember.

“At the end of the day, this fight was supposed to happen two or three times. Situations with me not taking care of myself and not taking opponents seriously caused it to happen. But styles make fights and we’ll see what the boxing fans say Sept. 12.

“I know that I’m still the same guy who people thought could have given Floyd problems a couple years ago.

“Victor Ortiz and Robert Guerrero both got fights with Floyd because they beat me. There must be something to that. They said ‘if he did something to Berto, he should get a shot at Floyd.'”

“We’re here. It’s my time to see him. He can have his ‘MayVinci’ code because we put in the work. The whole team is confident. I’m going to do what I do.

“We worked on a lot of different things at camp. I have the speed to keep up with him. I have more power.

“The thing with Floyd is, most guys he fights aren’t as athletic as he is. But I am.

“If you come at Floyd fast but don’t have a plan and don’t have good footwork, it’s too easy for him. If you have a guy that’s as athletic as him, it gives him problems.

“There is a lot more to me than just walking guys down. I have speed, I have power, I have a crazy uppercut, I can move to the side. There are a lot of ways I can get it done.

“I’m not going to watch his sparring. I don’t want to watch him driving his cars, none of that. I want to see him Sept. 12.

“This is my first time going into a fight without all the pressure on my back. I’ve always been the favorite in every fight. I don’t know what he’s feeling and I don’t really have to care about it.

“It’s a different mindset. Coming from where I come from, we always had to defeat the odds. We didn’t have what other people had. We had to work twice as hard for everything. To be noticed to be seen. Even back then it drove me to be the best that I can be. I wanted everyone to know I was somebody you had to watch.

“I’ve faced these odds my whole life. I was discounted two years ago when I was laying in the hospital. I’m constantly envisioning victory.

“All the hard work we’re putting in, it’ll all pay off fight night. It’s not just for me. I’ve been through doing things for me. I see what’s real now.

“I’ve prepared myself mentally to be in this position. People can say whatever they want. We’re focused.

“This is going to be for everyone who believes in the underdog.”

Virgil Hunter

“We have a unique opportunity right in front of us. We have a chance at history and to cement a legacy for my fighter (Berto).

“What is the key to winning this fight? (Berto) has got to want to win. He has to want it more. He holds the keys in his hand. You can plan as much as you want for tomorrow, but we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. We can only prepare.

“If (Berto) wins this fight, you’ll see me jumping up and down and it will be hard to compose myself. I’m usually pretty composed, but you might see me jump up and fall out of the ring and hit my head or something.

“No matter what happens, Floyd will always be considered one of the best ever. Win or lose, his legacy is cemented.

“There are similarities between Floyd and Andre Ward. They both started boxing as young boys, and were Olympians and are undefeated. There’s a lot of pressure that comes with being undefeated and they both have faced that.

“It’s not fair to the fight game to say this is a free shot and to go in there and say we have nothing to lose. We have everything to lose.”

George Groves

“Training camp has been going great. We’re fully acclimated to the time change and altitude. We’re performing very well in the gym and fulfilling the plan. I’m ready to rock.

“We’ve trained in the U.S. before. Last year we came over to spar with Gennady Golovkin. This time we’re out there for much longer and it has been very successful.

“I like training in the altitude and I expect it to help me on fight night. We got used to it over the weeks of camp and now it’s time to bring the extra energy to the ring.

“I’m fully immersed in this fight with Badou Jack. Everyone wants to know about the future plans, but I leave that up to the promoters. My main concern is winning that WBC belt.

“I carry power. I have good hands and foot speed. I can control the fight from anywhere. The mistakes that Badou Jack makes, I will take advantage of.

“I want to announce myself as the best fighter in the division and I’m planning on doing that Sept. 12. There won’t be any question marks. After I win this fight, I’ll have proof.

“I’m a valuable commodity in the UK and it’s about time I started building my brand in the states. This is a huge opportunity being on the Mayweather card. The undercard will not be overlooked this night.

“Every fight is more important than the last. It doesn’t matter who you fight, it can affect you in a big way. I have a style that will naturally engage with the fans. People like to see me fight. I look to take the opponent out and that will be the same on Sept. 12.

“Once Badou Jack leaves an opening, I will take it. I plan to look very good doing so.”

Jhonny Gonzalez

“I feel great. I’ve been preparing at the gym a lot and I feel very good about this fight.

“I am ready to win in this division and compete for a world title right away.

“I am fighting so quickly after my last victory because I am very confident. I want to stay active. I want to gain what I had before the loss to [Gary] Russell. I’m moving forward.

“I know that my opponent is a strong fighter. He’s going to throw a lot of punches but I’m going to bring it right back at him hard.

“Being on the Mayweather card is a blessing. I’m excited to be in Las Vegas with the whole world watching.

“I’m honored to be fighting on the Mexican Independence weekend. I’m ready to represent for my Mexican people. I’m going to leave everything in the ring.

“What I want out of this fight, is an opportunity to win a world title. This is why I train so hard, to win world titles and fight in big fights.

“I believe in my power punches. I’m intelligent on the inside and the outside. I believe in myself as a fighter and that is why I’ll win.”

Leonard Ellerbe

“I think Floyd shocked everyone by sparring on his media day on Wednesday. It wasn’t planned. You just never know what you’re going to get at any Mayweather event. He’s always going to do something to attract attention and put on a show.

“There’s no fear in Virgil (Berto’s trainer) or Andre checking it out and finding something that they can use against Floyd. Virgil is an excellent trainer and they will be prepared for everything for this fight.

“Everything is right on track with the promotion. Doing a media workout like this is very important to keep the publicity up and to market the event and let the fighters interact with the fans. We have a tremendous undercard on Sept. 12

“The SHOWTIME All Access episodes have been excellent and are getting the fans and media excited for this fight.”

# # #

“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round welterweight world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA 147-pound titles, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC. The event will take place Saturday, September 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be televised by SHOWTIME PPV. The undercard features a WBO Junior Lightweight World Championship fight, which is a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido. Also featured on the PPV telecast will be a WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves, which is promoted in association with Team Sauerland. The opening PPV bout pits former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round super featherweight bout.

“ALL ACCESS: Mayweather vs. Berto” Episode 1 premieres this Friday, Aug. 28 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @Romancito77, @sirisalido, @jhonnygbox, @JonathanOquen @mayweatherpromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FloydMayweather,www.Facebook.com/TheRealAndreBerto,www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

LONDON (24 August) – Boxing superstar and the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather will end his iconic career live and exclusive on the world’s number one boxing channel BoxNation when he takes on Haitian hard-hitter Andre Berto on September 12.

The unbeaten Mayweather will hang up his gloves following the Berto clash after an illustrious 19-year career which has seen him capture world titles in five different weight divisions and be regarded as one of the very best in boxing history.

BoxNation subscribers will now get the chance to see if Mayweather can end his career on a high when he puts his WBC and WBA welterweight world titles on the line against two-time world champion Berto at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The 31-year-old Berto has proven that he always comes to fight and against Mayweather, who is currently 48-0, he will be out to hand him his only loss as a retirement present.

The end of an era looms for Mayweather, whose prowess ranks alongside other rare sporting talents such as Michael Jordan, Diego Maradona and Muhammad Ali.

‘The Channel of Champions’ – BoxNation – will be the only place for British fans to watch the conclusion of this great chapter in sport, with Mayweather looking to match Rocky Marciano’s 49 fight undefeated record, whilst dazzling in his last outing.

“I’m ready to get back in the ring on September 12 and prove again to the whole world why I’m ‘The Best Ever’,” said Mayweather. “I always bring my A-game and this fight against Andre Berto is no exception. He’s a young, strong fighter who is hungry to take down the best. Forty-eight have tried before and on September 12, I’m going to make it 49.”

Berto, however, is ready to crash the party and upset the 38-year-old veteran.

“I’m coming to kick Floyd’s ass on September 12,” said Berto. “Best believe that I plan to bring it to Floyd and I’m not concerned about what 48 other fighters have been unable to do. Somebody is getting knocked out and it won’t be me. You don’t want to miss this.”

In the run up to the fight BoxNation will also air behind the scenes show ‘All Access’ providing a rare insight into both camps as they prepare for their date with destiny.

The stacked four-fight televised card will see a host of top bouts taking place including British star George Groves facing newly crowned WBC super-middleweight world champion Badou Jack.

It could prove third time lucky for Londoner Groves who is looking to win his first world title following two memorable matchups with rival Carl Froch.

The Hammersmith hero has it all to play for against Jack who captured the WBC belt from Anthony Dirrell in a closely fought contest in which he emerged with a 12-round majority decision.

27-year-old Groves though is ready to snatch it from him and fulfil a lifelong ambition by claiming the world title on September 12.

“I have been fortunate enough to experience some of the greatest feelings the sport can give,” said Groves. “I have challenged for world titles and I have sold out stadiums, but my true childhood dream of winning a world title is yet to be fulfilled. I get that chance on the Las Vegas Strip – the crème de la crème for any fighter on the planet. I cannot wait to achieve my goal and become world champion. Badou Jack isn’t ‘Bad’ enough to halt my dream. His WBC belt is all that is on my mind each and every waking moment. We have studied Jack – we are prepared for his strengths and ready to expose his weaknesses.”

In addition, the ever-exciting Roman Martinez will put his WBO super-featherweight title on the line against Orlando Salido, with Mexican power-puncher Jhonny Gonzalez taking on Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo.

The addition of Floyd Mayweather vs. Andre Berto adds another great card to a stunning BoxNation calendar which sees a number of top bills taking place live and exclusive on the channel.

These include super-middleweight star Frank Buglioni’s title clash with WBA champion Fedor Chudinov on September 26, Lucas Matthysse vs Viktor Postol on October 3 and a stacked Manchester card headlined by Billy Joe Saunders challenging WBO middleweight champion Andy Lee.

To subscribe to BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD, Virgin 525, TalkTalk 415, online or app) for only £12 a month visit boxnation.com.

-Ends-
About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £12* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

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LOS ANGELES (August 6, 2015) – Accredited media members from around the world came out to the JW Marriott at L.A. Live in Los Angeles Thursday as Floyd “Money” Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) and two-time welterweight champion Andre Berto (30-3, 23 KOs) officially announced their SHOWTIME PPV matchup with taking place Saturday, September 12 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Also in attendance Thursday were pay-per-view undercard fighters featured on the stacked four-fight telecast. In a rematch of their epic April 11 world-title fight Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO Junior Lightweight title against four-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs) while WBC Super Middleweight Champion Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will take on his mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs). A fourth fight on the pay-per-view telecast will be announced soon.

Further undercard action features a super welterweight showdown between Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) and Vanes “The Nightmare” Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs), who were also in attendance Thursday to announce their fight.

Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, the four-fight pay-per-view telecast will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and is the sixth and final fight of a record-breaking deal between Mayweather and Showtime Networks Inc. SHOWTIME Sports® will support the event with the Sports Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESS premiering Friday, August 28.

Here is what the fighters and participants had to say Thursday:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, 12-Time World Champion

“I’ve had a remarkable career. I wouldn’t change anything. We all make mistakes. We live and we learn but I wouldn’t change anything.

“My dad is a remarkable trainer, Virgil Hunter as well. But when it comes down to it, it comes down to the two fighters in the ring.

“Andre Berto is a tough competitor, a former world champion. Every time he goes out there, he gives it 100 percent.

“I chose Berto because he’s very exciting. Andre Berto is going to push Floyd Mayweather to the limit. That’s one thing I do know.

“Berto always gives an exciting fight. If he gets knocked down he gets back up. He always give 100 percent. Fast hands, good boxer.

“I know what it takes when it’s a fight of this magnitude, because I’ve been fighting on pay-per-view for over 10 years. Berto is a very tough guy, he’s hungry and he’s not going to lie down.

“September 12th is my last dance. On September 13 I just want to sit back and watch some football. I want to watch my children get the best education. And I want to spend every day with my kids. These are the best days of my life.

“The difference between Andre Berto and Pacquiao is you guys [to the media] put hype behind Pacquiao. My job was to go out there and be Floyd Mayweather and be a chess player and that’s what I did. I found a way to win.

“Number 49, this is it. I’ve had a tremendous career. I’m older, wiser and my health is more important than anything. September 12 is my last fight. All 48 fights played a key, but number 48 was the most important.

“This dream all started with just two people. Me and my father. Just the two of us.

“When you look at the two divisions I fight in, there’s one man who stands all alone. I looked at the division and asked who’s always in a tough exciting fight, who has quick hands and who always gives it 100 percent, it was Andre Berto

“This is a guy I can’t overlook. He’s dedicated to the sport just like myself and he’s going to push me.”

ANDRE BERTO, Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

“It’s a long time coming. Now we’re here. Anybody that knows me has seen great things but at the same time they’ve seen me go through some real trials. What comes with that is a lot of hard work and perseverance.

“Two years ago I was in the hospital bed having surgery on my shoulder and not knowing if I could come back from that. At the end of the day it was a blessing. We stayed focused and now we’re here.

“I know I’m going to come in there fast and strong. I’m 152 pounds right now. At the end of the day you’re going to see a kids who’s had his highs. Or who’s had his falls. And now we’re right back to making it happen.

“This is a fight that I felt Floyd still wanted to make happen. Him coming off of the Pacquiao fight, of course it’s easy for people to downplay me. I can’t worry about that and I’m not worried about that.

“Have you ever seen a boring Andre Berto fight? At the end of the day we work our butt off, I’ve been working for a long time. Right now, the harvest is coming. We sowed the seeds and the time is now.

“I bring that rare combination of speed, power and explosiveness to the table. The last person he bought with that combination was Zab Judah. I’m younger, I’m hungry; I’m strong and fast. I’m focused on what I’m coming to get.

“I felt like I went through what I went through for a reason. My time is now. There’s no better day than the present. Floyd is no stranger to me. We’re already deep into camp. You definitely do not want to miss this one.”

ROMAN MARTINEZ, WBO Junior Lightweight World Champion

“I’m so happy to be part of this great show. I’m preparing very well for this fight. Everybody who saw the first fight knows this was a war and this will be the same thing. I’m in great shape and I’m ready to keep my belt.

“I need to work to the body more in this fight and see if I can finish him early this time.

“I’m in really good shape for this fight and I’ve been working to make adjustments to get the knock out but if we have to go the distance, we’ll be ready.

“I feel the rematch is a very exciting fight for television, the kind fans love.

“Everybody who saw the first fight knows it was a war and this will be the same thing. For me, it gives me a chance to leave no doubt in anybody’s mind that I am the champion.

“Salido can say what he says, I hope he’s in good condition because I am. In the end the best man will win this fight and that will be me.”

ORLANDO SALIDO, Four-Time World Champion

“Now I know his weaknesses, I am going to attack from the very first moment, I know what to do for the victory.

“I have to refocus mentally and physically, I’m not going to do much different other than to gain the victory this time

“I’m definitely going to regain this title for Mexico. I don’t feel it. I know it.

“I am very happy we are fighting in a neutral territory for our rematch, not in Puerto Rico again. I was very prepared for the first fight but the referee wouldn’t let me fight my fight. It seemed the referee was talking to me the whole 12 rounds. I was trying to focus only on my opponent, but I couldn’t.

“I’m very excited about this fight. This is a very special month for Mexico and in particular because of that, I’m going to get this victory.

“There’s always a very special rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico and I feel it, which is why I so badly want to win this title for Mexico.”

BADOU JACK, WBC Super Middleweight World Champion

“I’ve been in camp for about two months now. It’s been a very good training camp and I’m ready right now to fight. We still have a month to go and we’re ready.

“I’ve always been strong mentally but I get some extra confidence from having that green belt. You still have to stay humble and keep working hard.

“Groves is a pretty good fighter. I definitely think it’s going to be an exciting fight. I know he’s coming to get what’s mine and he’s coming to fight.

“He’s fought in the UK in front of a lot of people, but it’s a different stage in Vegas.

“I think I’m the overall better fighter. He’s going to try to knock me out and I’m going to try to knock him out. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m definitely going for the knockout.

“It’s a dream come true to be part of such a big event at MGM Grand for Floyd’s last fight, it’s a blessing.

“It’s no different to me being the main event or on the undercard. There will be even more people seeing my fight which is great.

“I just have to listen to my corner, be smart and be myself. If I do that I’ll walk out of there with my belt intact.”

GEORGE GROVES, Top 168-Pound Contender

“Everything in training camp has been perfect. We’re adjusting to the time difference and the altitude, which takes a couple of days, but everything is going really well. We’re ahead of schedule.

“We’ve been training all year for this fight so I’m feeling really good. I can’t wait to get in there and start punching.

“I think I know more than enough about Jack. I’ve seen him box live against Anthony Dirrell and I’ve studied him on tape. There’s a lot to like about him. I like the fact that he’s come to the U.S. and has made a home out here, there’s bravery in that. He’s latched on to a successful camp but ultimately you have to stand on your own two feet in the ring.

“I think I’m better than him in most aspects. If I go out and perform it’s an easy night’s work for me.

“It’s nice being on a undercard because I’ve dealt with the pressure of the main event. It’s nice to just be able to enjoy the fight. It’s a massive fight but the only thing I have to worry about it fighting. It’s a great opportunity for me.

“Rust is more mental than anything. You only hear a fighter talk about ring rust after a fight because it’s an excuse. We’re in the gym performing, sparring partners are getting beat up and there’s no excuse to not take it into a real fight.

“I’m pleased to be here in America. The third time going for the title will be lucky. We’ve prepared diligently. We’re ready for action.

“I’ve seen Badou up close and personal and as of yet, we can’t find anything that will cause me a problem. We plan to take the belt back to the UK.

“He’ll have comfort being at home and with his stable mates, but that all goes away when you step in the ring and a guy is trying to take your head off.

“Since I was seven years old I’ve dreamed of becoming a world champion. I’ve had ups and downs in boxing but it’s all come full circle.

“We have ourselves in a great place in training camp and I literally cannot wait to get in there.”

ISHE SMITH, Former Super Welterweight World Champion

“I asked for the toughest fights and the toughest challenges. I just want to fight the best. No matter what people think or what people say about me, we put together good fights.
We’ve had three champions at Mayweather Promotions so we’re doing something right.

“Vanes Martirosyan is a good fighter, I have nothing but respect for him. We’re putting together the necessary work in the gym to be successful.

“This fight could probably have been a main event somewhere but I’m happy to be a part of history and Floyd’s finale. I’m looking forward to a great night of boxing.”

VANES MARTIROSYAN, 2004 U.S. Olympian and 154-Pound Contender

“This is a big fight for me. My last fight I left in the judges’ hands and it went the other way.

“September 12 I’m not letting the judges get in my way. I’m going for the knockout and you’re going to see the best Vanes you’ve ever seen.”

VIRGIL HUNTER, Berto’s Trainer

“I’m glad to be a part of this historic event. It’s these moments that I reflect on what these young men go through. I’ve seen some of the great fighters that came before us. When I see some of the negative attitudes on this event, it’s from people who don’t know what those fighters go through at the gym.

“We’re told never to quit and to never give up. Being 48-0 is not an easy job. Particularly when you go back to day one and the obstacles and the hills you have to climb. That’s the spirit of the sport. I think once Floyd Mayweather is gone, we’ll feel the presence that this man had on the sport. I witnessed the same thing with Muhammad Ali.

“Andre Berto has overcome a lot in his life and I’m glad to have made his acquaintance. He epitomizes what a fighter is. He’s overcome and he’s earned this opportunity based off that.

“When you look at that pack in that welterweight division there’s only one that stands out, everyone else is in that pack.

“We intend to give this the best job that we’re going to give it. I think the champ himself respects that. We come to win, but we have to respect what he’s done for the sport.

“I’m glad to be a part of this. It’s a big thrill for me to be on the opposite side of legends and we’re anticipating everything turning out just right for us on fight night.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Welcome everyone to what will be Floyd Mayweather’s last kick off press conference of his amazing career. We are so excited to be working together to bring another stacked PPV card to boxing fans on SHOWTIME PPV.

“We have a great lineup with three world championships fights.

“Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at 10 am P.T./1 pm E.T. Prices range from $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300, $150.

“Once again Floyd will be putting his WBC titles and WBA title on the line. He will be facing Andre Berto, who will be looking to erase the 0 off Floyd’s record on September 12.

“’Rocky’ Martinez vs. Orlando Salido will be a rematch of the Fight of the Year candidate from April. We know that will be a war.

“These are the kinds of challenges that Floyd needs to push him the way that he needs to be pushed. Andre Berto is a guy we were supposed to fight years ago. He’s a two-time world champion. We know he’s going to bring it. He’s going to give it his best. On September 12 we’ll see if it’s good enough.

“With the storied career that Floyd Mayweather has had, we are truly witnessing history. You better take a good look at him, because the thing’s he’s accomplished in this sport, we’ll never see again.

“We always knew that Floyd would be here, many years ago. When a guy accomplishes these kinds of things, everything he does is historic. When you look around the landscape, this gentleman right here is why the game has been changed.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager SHOWTIME Sports

“Boxing is a tough sport. It’s a tough sport to cover, it’s a tough sport to do business in and it’s a tough sport to make a living at. When you find someone who has been participating in the sport as a professional for 19 years, not just participating but practicing the sport at an elite level, one that’s rarely been seen, that’s something special.

“Two decades at the top of the sport, but you know what’s most impressive? It’s work ethic. Almost 20 years of a work ethic that is unmatched in the sport of boxing. Never in his 19 years has Floyd showed up less than 100 percent prepared, 19 years of unwavering discipline. Once he got to the top level, the work ethic didn’t change. That will be the legacy of Floyd in this sport, it is something I will likely never see again in my lifetime.

“It all comes to an end September 12, it’s our last opportunity to enjoy his incredible skill.

“Andre Berto has a chance to make history himself. If he does that, nothing else will matter. Berto will become known as the guy who finally beat Floyd Mayweather.

“One thing we know about Andre Berto, he’s never lacked for action. There’s only one way he knows how to fight and that’s all out aggressive.

“I’ve seen what Andre can do in the ring, I’ve seen him fight round after round. Fighters like Andre Berto will always be welcome, because no one fights harder than Andre Berto.”

MAURICIO SULAIMAN, WBC President

“I am very happy to once again represent my father and to see the WBC back in a great event. September 12 is a national Mexican holiday and Floyd has taken it over and represented Mexico so well. Andre Berto is a former WBC champion who will for sure bring a great challenge to Floyd Mayweather.”

* * *

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @sirisalido, @mayweatherpromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/FloydMayweather,www.Facebook.com/TheRealAndreBerto,www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the August 22 WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves has been postponed from August 22 to possibly September 12.

“It’s not happening on that date,” Showtime spokesman Chris DeBlasio told ESPN.com.

According to Dan Rafael, WBC Super Middleweight champion Badou Jack will defend his crown on August 22 against former two-time title challenger George Groves in Las Vegas.

“Badou Jack is a terrific fighter. He’s a young man who is focused on his career. I think guys like him — they become better fighters when they become champions,” said Leonard Ellerbe of Mywesatsaid. “I think he’s going to have a long reign as a super middleweight champion, and he’s the kind of guy who, after this fight with George Groves, won’t be creeping up on anybody. George Groves is an excellent fighter, but he can’t beat Badou Jack.”

We can confirm that a minor incident took place during George Grove’s training camp with the Royal Marines on Monday afternoon as part of his preparation for his forthcoming WBC Super Middleweight World Championship fight with Badou Jack scheduled to take place in the United States in late August or early September.

George was taken to hospital for precautionary checks but immediately released following the incident that took place while taking part in a boat activity with the Marines. The injury will not affect his preparations for the Jack fight and he will continue his training camp as planned.

George Groves and Team Sauerland hope to make an announcement in the coming days with regards to the date and location of the fight as negotiations continue.

LONDON (17 FEB) World super-middleweight contender ‘Saint’ George Groves has experienced firsthand the quality of reigning WBA Super world middleweight champion Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin, but insists Martin Murray is the man to test the Kazakh destroyer when they meet on Saturday (February 21) in Monte Carlo.

Groves, a two-time world title challenger, spent a week in training camp with Golovkin last summer and the pair sparred a number of rounds together. It offered the Londoner the chance to see exactly why Golovkin, 31-0 (28 KOs), is the most feared fighter on the planet right now.

“Sometimes you get a quick puncher who hits hard, like Mike Tyson, but you assume they’re not going to last that long,” said Groves. “After three or four rounds, it’s likely they’ll tire. But Golovkin has a style that allows him to set his own rhythm and get into his own groove and it’s hard to knock him out of it.

“To beat him, you can’t only be good at one thing. If you’re just fast, you won’t beat him. If you just have power, you won’t beat him. He has so much time in the pocket to work you out. He’ll find the openings.

“The most impressive thing I discovered was that he’s exceptional at setting traps. He’ll have guys thinking they’ll avoid his punch power and move around the ring, yet he cuts the ring off, feints, sets traps and quickly gets them to fight his fight.

“It doesn’t take him long. Once the ring closes on them, he goes to work and he has a great variety of shots, he works the body well, and, when he sees an opening, he has so much time. He’s a wily old cat who can really bite.

“Ultimately, you’re always on a knife edge with someone like Golovkin. You’ve got to be prepared to punch with him. You’ve got to be prepared to take a shot to land a shot at times. If you’re too concerned about getting hit, you’ll panic, make a mistake and end up getting hit and hurt. You have to try and land some shots of your own and command his respect. If he’s got nothing to worry about, he’ll be in that groove and rhythm of his all day.

“And you’re not dealing with a technically poor fighter who has incredible punch power. He has incredible punch power and elite-level technical ability. This means he’s always in the right place at the right time, with perfect balance, to land some of the most hurtful shots in boxing. That’s a scary thing for most opponents.”

Groves concedes that Murray, 29-1-1 (12 KOs), isn’t the type to get scared or overawed when placed in a daunting situation. In fact, he’s shown in previous world title tilts, against Felix Sturm and Sergio Martinez, that he’s the sort of fighter who rises to the occasion.

“I think Martin Murray is certainly a world-class operator and he has looked exceptional at times, usually when asked to step up,” said Groves. “He’s proven himself to be one of the best in the division.

“Golovkin has gone through every one of his opponents like a hot knife through butter, so you wouldn’t back against him or begrudge him being the favourite, but I get the impression Murray is a very tough man to beat. He’s strong, he has a good boxing brain, he has a good variety of punches and he’s very experienced.

“I also like the fact Murray has a bit of a maverick approach to boxing. He isn’t signed to a standard UK promoter, he’s got his own ideas and I understand and appreciate that. He’s his own man. In these circumstances, that’s the best way to be. And, with the hype around Golovkin, ignorance and single-mindedness could be a real blessing.

“Also, Golovkin is so busy and has been boxing so well, it could be very easy for him to take his eye off the ball or go a little easy in training because he knows he’s scheduled for another three or four fights this year.

“Murray is not the sort of opponent you can take lightly. He can change and adapt to a certain degree; we’ve seen him fight up close with a tight guard and not give much away, and we’ve seen him box at mid-range and long-range behind a good jab and straight punches. He also looks like he’s got good physical strength, so he’ll be able to stand toe-to-toe when he needs to.

“All in all, I think it will definitely be one of Golovkin’s hardest fights. I don’t think Murray will crumble or get taken out early. We’ve seen good, durable fighters like Matthew Macklin and Daniel Geale crumble early against him, but I don’t see Murray going that way.”

*** Boxing superstar Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin defends his WBA Super world middleweight title against Britain’s Martin Murray on Saturday, February 21 in Monte Carlo, LIVE on Channel 5 ***

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Former two-time world title challenger George Groves scored a 7th round stoppage over Denis Douglin in a scheduled 12 round Super Middleweight bout.

Groves dropped Douglin from a hard left in round seven and then jumped all over Douglin and the bout was stopped at 2:54 of round seven.

Groves is now 21-2 with 16 knockouts. Douglin is now 17-4.

James DeGale scored an explosive third round stoppage over former world title challenger Marco Antonio Periban in a scheduled 12-round Super Middleweight bout.

DeGale landed two hard left hands that sent Periban to the canvas. Periban got to his feet but was deemed unable to continue at 30 seconds of round three.

DeGale, 167 lbs of England is now 20-1 with 14 knockouts. Periban, 169 1/2 lbs of Mexico is now 20-3-1.

Scott Quigg outworked Hidenori Otaki to retain his WBA Super Bantamweight title via 12-round unanimous decision.

Otaki started to belled bad from his right eye in round ten.

Quigg, 121 lbs won by scores of 119-109 twice and 118-110 and is now 30-0-2. Otaki, 121 lbs is now 22-2-3.

Good looking Super Middleweight prospect Callum Smith remained perfect by scoring a 12-round unanimous decision over Nikola Sjekloca.

Smith, 167 lbs won by scores of 120-108, 118-111 and 118-110 and is now 15-0. Sjekloca, 167 lbs is now 28-3.

Jamie McDonnell retained the WBA Bantamweight title when challenger Javier Chacon was forced to retire after hurting his shoulder in the 10th round.

In round five, McDonnell was bleeding from the nose. It was a close competitive fight until Chacon waved the bout off at 39 seconds into round 10.

McDonnell is now 25-2-1 with 12 knockouts. Chacon is now 20-3.

Bradley Saunders stayed undefeated by scoring a 6-round unanimous decision over Ivans Livickis in a Welterweight bout.

Saunders, 147 lbs won by a 60-54 score and is now 11-0. Levickis, 143 lbs is 13-15.

George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs) and Denis Douglin (17-3, 10 KOs) came face-to-face for the first time at today’s press conference ahead of their WBC Silver World Super Middleweight Championship fight on Saturday night, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

There is a lot on the line for the ‘Saint’, who risks both his WBC Silver title and WBC mandatory position, when he faces the ‘Mommas Boy’ in front of a sell out crowd at the Echo Arena in Liverpool.

‘It’s great to be back boxing in Liverpool,’’ said Groves. ‘’It’s been a successful place for me in the past. On Saturday, it’s going to be a great night of boxing and I’m really looking forward to it.

‘’It’s good to finally see Denis. He seems super charged and up for the fight. I’m expecting a tough fight but I’m fully prepared for it. We’ve had a fantastic camp. I’m ready to put into practice what we’ve been working on the past year. This is when we can really step it up a notch.’’

‘’I’m truly excited for this fight,’’ said Douglin. ‘’I’ve come here to win! I didn’t come over here just to lie down as an opponent. Although I’ve only had twenty fights, I consider myself a veteran. I’ve lost against people I wasn’t meant to lose against and beaten people I wasn’t supposed to beat. I’ve seen both sides of the spectrum when it comes to boxing and I can make the adjustments to handle anything.

‘’If he comes to box, I can box him. If he steps to me and he wants to fight, we can do that too, that’s what I love to do and that’s what the fans love. Whatever he brings to the table, I’m prepared for.’’

Groves’ clash with Douglin is part of a massive bill in Liverpool topped by the rematch between bitter rivals Cleverly and Bellew. One of Groves’ arch-enemies James DeGale takes on Marco Antonio Periban over 12 rounds at Super Middleweight, while the exciting Liverpool Super Middleweight Callum Smith faces Nikola Sjekloca in a WBC World title eliminator.

There are a pair of WBA World title bouts as Bury star Scott Quigg defends his Super Bantamweight title against Hidenori Othake and Jamie McDonnell defends his Bantamweight strap against Javier Chacon.

Olympic Heavyweight hero Anthony Joshua MBE takes on Michael Sprott in a British title eliminator, Matchroom Boxing’s newest signing Bradley Saunders aims to extend his unbeaten run in the Light Welterweight division while German KO star Vincent Feigenbutz makes his UK debut.

Cleverly v Bellew II is exclusively live on Sky Sports Box Office on 22 November with George Groves, Anthony Joshua and James DeGale also on the bill. skysports.com/cleverlybellew.

San Diego, CA – November 4, 2014 – On Saturday afternoon, November 22, one of the biggest days in boxing will take place as an eagerly anticipated rematch between former Light Heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly and former two-time championship challenger Tony Bellew airs exclusively and live on AWE.

The 12-round Cruiserweight World Title eliminator bout will originate from the Echo Arena in Liverpool, England and will be broadcast LIVE in the United States on AWE-A Wealth of Entertainment.

Two co-main events feature two WBA world title bouts. Scott Quigg will make the 5th defense of the WBA Super Bantamweight title against Hidenori Otake of Tokyo, Japan. Also co-featured is two-time Bantamweight champion Jamie McDonnell defending the WBA Bantamweight title against Walberto Ramos of Colombia.

If that is not enough, then boxing fans are in for a terrific treat as two-time world title challenger George Groves takes on American Denis Douglin. The card also features undefeated British prospect Callum Smith as he sets to battle former world title challenger Nikola Sjekloca. Heavyweight and undefeated 2012 Olympic Gold Medal winner Anthony Joshua takes on 64-fight veteran Michael Sprott.

“This is one of the most heavily packed boxing events, including two world title fights. We’re thrilled to bring this amazing card to AWE viewers,” said AWE President, Charles Herring.

“Cleverly and Bellew have a long rivalry and their first bout was fantastic. We expect more great action as the stakes are higher. The co-main events are unprecedented and we’re delighted to present this level of boxing to fans across the United States exclusively and live on AWE.”

Cleverly, of Wales, has a record of 28-1 with 14 knockouts and is the former WBO Light Heavyweight world champion. He also is a former Commonwealth, British and European champion.

Cleverly won the Interim WBO championship with a 12-round unanimous decision over Nadjib Mohammadi. He was elevated to full champion with his 4th round stoppage over Aleksy Kuziemski. He defended that title 4 times which included his hotly contested majority decision over Bellew. He dropped the belt when he was stopped in 4-rounds by Sergey Kovalev.

Cleverly moved to Cruiserweight and is on a two fight winning streak which includes his most recent outing when he stopped Alejandro Valori to capture WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight title on July 12.

Bellew of Liverpool is 22-2-1 with 14 knockouts and is riding a two fight winning streak. He is a former Commonwealth and British Light Heavyweight champion.

Bellew won his first 16 bouts which put him in position for the first fight with Cleverly. In that bout, it was a close back and forth action with Cleverly pulling out a majority decision. Bellew then went on a 4-0-1 streak with a draw and win over classy contender Isaac Chilemba to set up his 2nd world title opportunity against Adonis Stevenson. Unfortunately, Bellew was stopped in six rounds against the Canadian.

Like Cleverly, Bellew moved to Cruiserweight and has scored two knockouts which includes his most recent outing when he stopped Julio Cesar Dos Santos on July 11 for the WBO International title.

Boxing fans can enjoy this amazing card on AWE available on AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD, Verizon FiOS TV, ch 169 and 669 in HD, along numerous regional cable providers across the nation. Please check www.awetv.com for boxing updates.

About AWE LIVE BOXING

AWE LIVE Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, AWE has earned multiple Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for “Fight of the Year” and has featured over thirty world class boxing events. In 2013, AWE showcased all live bouts featuring heavyweight David Price. AWE aired live the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, along with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew cards, who fought each other for the light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale. AWE brought boxing fans two of the most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against George Groves. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment

A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyles and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 169 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

George Groves (20-2, 15 KOs) is back in action on November 22 at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. The ‘Saint’ will defend his WBC Silver title against American Denis Douglin (17-3, 10 KOs) on a bumper bill topped by the domestic grudge match between Nathan Cleverly and Tony Bellew, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Groves returns following a unanimous points victory over Christopher Rebrasse at the SSE Arena, Wembley in September, in which the Hammersmith boxer claimed the European and WBC Silver Super Middleweight titles, and became mandatory challenger for Anthony Dirrell’s WBC World title.

‘’I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring,’’ said Groves. ‘’This is a chance for me to impress on a big card. I plan to steal the show! It’s a calculated risk, lose this fight and I lose my shot at Dirrell. But I want to stay active, I want to box as regularly as possible and I’m confident I can get the job done.

‘’I’ve good memories of fighting at the Echo Arena. It’s been a happy hunting ground for me in the past. I fought my third professional fight there against Paul Samuels and I picked up a lot of fans in Liverpool that night. They’re a lively bunch and I hope to bump into a few of them when I’m back in November.’’

‘’This is a big opportunity for me,’’ said Douglin. ‘’Win this fight and I’m a step closer to realising my dream of becoming world champion. Groves is a great boxer, it will be a tough fight but I’m ready to cause an upset. I’m coming to fight my fight and to beat Groves on his home turf.’’

‘’We’re pleased to get George out on another big UK show,’’ said promoter Nisse Sauerland. ‘’He will face a tough test against Douglin and cannot afford to look past him. George will need to approach this as if it were a world title fight or could risk losing the WBC mandatory position.’’

“I’m delighted to add George to a huge night of British boxing on November 22 in Liverpool,’’ said Eddie Hearn. ‘’You have three great super-middleweights in action in George, James DeGale and Callum Smith who are all in big fights – there will be plenty of drama on fight night and in the build up. We have had a run of great nights recently working together with Team Sauerland and we look forward to many more in the future.’

‘Saint’ George Groves (20-2, 15 KOs) returned in style on Saturday night. The Hammersmith boxer announced himself back on the world scene with a unanimous decision verdict over the tough Frenchman Christopher Rebrasse (22-3-3, 6 KOs) in a final eliminator for the WBC World Super Middleweight title.

‘’It feels great to be back,’’ said Groves. ‘’Rebrasse was a good opponent, a very tough guy, he took an awful lot of shots and kept coming. I knew it was going to be a hard fight. I felt in good condition but you always have to be cautious against a guy that has never been stopped. I want to entertain, I want to knock people out. I didn’t manage that tonight but I gave it real good go. Things are only going to get better from here. We’re getting ready to take over the world!’’

The former British and Commonwealth Champion can now add the European and WBC Silver titles to his impressive resume, and prepare for a mandatory challenge for Anthony Dirrell’s WBC belt. ‘’Dirrell has already made some statements, he’s a bit cheeky, a little bit outspoken,’’ said Groves. ‘’He’s been quite disrespectful to Rebrasse. I knock out a lot of guys and Rebrasse took some big shots, I’m not sure Dirrell could stand up to some of the punches I landed tonight. He has said he doesn’t want to fight me, that he doesn’t want to come to the UK but now he may just have to.’’

Promoter Kalle Sauerland was pleased with what he saw in the ring and at the post-fight press conference revealed he is ready to begin negotiations for a WBC World title fight. ‘’Before this fight I described George as one of the most exciting boxers on the planet,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’After tonight’s performance my mind hasn’t changed one bit. We’re ready to start to talking to Dirrell’s people. I don’t see any other options for them, there are no bigger fights out there. George is a natural entertainer inside and outside the ring. He has a style that would be very appealing to a US audience.’’

George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs) and Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 6 KOs) both made weight ahead of their WBC World Super Middleweight title final eliminator and European Championship clash.

George Groves: 11st 13lbs and 6oz
Christopher Rebrasse: 11st 13lbs 8oz

Groves and Rebrasse will meet tomorrow night at the SSE Arena, Wembley. The ‘Return of the Saint’ is available to watch live on Sky Sports 2 from 8pm. Tickets are available via ssearena.co.uk and axs.com or by calling 08448 24 48 24.

George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs) came face-to-face with Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 6 KOs) at today’s final press conference ahead of their WBC World title final eliminator, European Super Middleweight and WBC Silver Championship fight on September 20 at the SSE Arena, Wembley.

‘The Saint’ is ready to get his world title ambitions back on track starting with victory on Saturday night. ‘We’ve assessed Rebrasse as a fighter and we know the challenges he poses,’’ said Groves. ‘’He is big for weight, throws a lot of punches and needs to be taken seriously. But this is my moment. I’m going to get in there, get the win and show all the super middleweights in the world that I’m back and I mean business.’’

Rebrasse, the reigning and defending champion, has plans of his own. ‘’I’m not a big talker,’’ said the Frenchman. ‘’I prefer to do my talking in the ring. But what I will say is that I’m here to defend my titles and beat Groves on his home turf. He is a good fighter but I have trained very hard. He is just the next step for me on my way to the top.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’We are all looking forward to an amazing show on Saturday night. We will have spectacular walk-ins and a great main event. The WBC has confirmed that this is the final eliminator to become the mandatory challenger of Anthony Dirrell. Rebrasse is the number three in the WBC rankings, he is the European Champion, so there is everything at stake.’’

There has been much said by Dirrell about a potential fight with Groves and while the Hammersmith-boxer remains focused on the task at hand he did have this to say about the newly crowned WBC Champion: ‘’Dirrell has been doing a lot of talking. He has said that he won’t fight me, that I don’t deserve a shot but I think that just proves he’s scared. We’ve had a letter from the WBC confirming a mandatory shot if I win this fight. Once I’m done with Rebrasse I’m coming for him.’’

Promoter Kalle Sauerland is ready to back his fighter in a World title clash with Dirrell should Groves prove successful on Saturday night. “We’ve got the money, we’ve got the talent, we’ve got the fans, we’ve got the market. We´re ready for Dirrell,” said Sauerland. ”But make no mistake, we have to focus on Saturday. We must not get ahead of ourselves. But I am confident that George will take care of business on Saturday night. He is one of the most exciting fighters on the planet.”

Return of the Saint: Groves vs. Rebrasse will be shown live on Sky Sports 2 from 8pm. Tickets are available via ssearena.co.uk and axs.com or by calling 08448 24 48 24

On Saturday night, ‘Saint’ George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs) returns following his Wembley Stadium blockbuster and is straight back on the World title trail with a European Championship challenge and WBC World title final eliminator against Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 6 KOs) at the SSE Arena, Wembley.

Alongside the ‘Return of the Saint’, fans can look forward to an action-packed undercard brought to you by Team Sauerland and Matchroom Boxing.

Birmingham’s Kal Yafai (11-0, 8 KOs) continues his charge towards world glory when he faces Herald Molina (17-8-3, 7 KOs) for the vacant IBF Intercontinental Super Flyweight title.

Olympic gold medal star Luke Campbell MBE (7-0, 5 KOs) goes toe-to-toe with former EU Lightweight Champion Krzysztof Szot (18-15-1, 5 KOs).

Undefeated lightweight prospect Martin J. Ward (9-0-1, 4 KOs) takes on the experienced Georgian Kakhaber Avetisian (35-24-1, 17 KOs).

Former British Light Welterweight Champion Darren Hamilton (14-3, 3 KOs) is looking to bounce back from domestic defeat when he meets ‘El Guerrero’ Steven Bloyer (16-11, 1 KO).

‘Pretty’ Ricky Boylan (11-0, 4 KOs) is back in action and hoping to keep his unbeaten record intact against Karoly Lakatos (13-44, 5 KOs).

The Swedish ‘Golden Boy’ Oscar Ahlin (9-0, 8 KOs) returns from an injury lay off and is eager to impress on his British boxing debut when he takes on the Latvian ‘Viking’ Olegs Fedotovs (18-15, 12 KOs).

Swindon’s Luke Watkins get his first taste of big time boxing when he makes his professional bow against David Vicena (8-20-2, 6 KOs)

Return of the Saint: Groves vs. Rebrasse will be shown live on Sky Sports 2 from 8.00pm. Tickets are available from ssearena.co.uk and axs.com or by calling 08448 24 48 24.

Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 6 KOs) has arrived in London ready to defend his European Super Middleweight crown in a WBC World title final eliminator against George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs).

Today at a media workout at Stonebridge Boxing Club the Frenchman shared his thoughts ahead of Saturday night’s fight at the SSE Arena, Wembley.

Said Rebrasse: ‘’I’m very happy to be here and I’m looking forward to Saturday night. Groves is a good boxer but I am ready to do whatever it takes to get the win. I cannot say whether I will beat Groves inside the distance or after the final bell but I am confident I will win. I’ve come to London as the champion and I will be leaving as the champion.’’

Rebrasse has travelled with coach Laurent Boucher. As fight night approaches Boucher believes his fighter is primed to cause an upset in Wembley. ‘’Christopher is in great shape. We’ve trained hard and we’ve trained smart. He may be the underdog but that is when he is at his most dangerous. He will make a big statement on Saturday night by beating Groves on his home turf.’’

Return of the Saint: Groves vs. Rebrasse is available to watch live on Sky Sports. Tickets are available via ssearena.co.uk and axs.com or by calling 08448 24 48 24.

Today super middleweight star George Groves conducted a media workout at his Hammersmith gym ahead of Saturday night’s WBC World title final eliminator and European Championship challenge against Christopher Rebrasse at the SSE Arena, Wembley.

Groves was put through his paces by coach Paddy Fitzpatrick and looked in top shape as he enters the final days of training prior to his Wembley return. ‘’I’m chomping at the bit,’’ said the 26 year-old. ‘’Obviously less is more at this stage but we’ve had a very good camp and we’ve enjoyed ourselves. Now I can’t wait to get in there and rock ‘n’ roll. I’m counting down the seconds before I can get back in the ring and back to what I do best.’’

The ‘Return of the Saint’ Groves vs. Rebrasse will be shown live on Sky Sports. Tickets are available via ssearena.co.uk and axs.com or by calling 08448 24 48 24.

European Champion Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 6 KOs) travels to London to face George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs) in a final eliminator for the WBC World Super Middleweight title on September 20 at the SSE Arena, Wembley. Victory will earn the Frenchman a shot at the newly crowned champion Anthony Direll and bring him a step closer to achieving his ultimate ambition.

Rebrasse has worked his way up the world rankings with a series of impressive performances, culminating in a successful European title challenge in March. Currently ranked number three by both the WBC and IBF, the 28 year-old believes he is now ready to make his mark on the world scene.

‘’I took the traditional route,’’ said Rebrasse. ‘’First I became French Champion, then EU Champion and now that I’m European Champion the next step for me is to win a world title. That is my dream, that is my only objective and I will do everything I can to achieve it. I won’t let anything or anyone stand in my way, including George Groves.’’

Rebrasse travelled to Italy to claim the European title, defeating the champion Mouhamed Ali Ndiaye inside four rounds on his home turf. He will be defending his belt for the first time when he meets Groves in London. The prospect of fighting away from home holds no fears for the boxer from Levallois-Perret.

‘’A ring is a ring wherever you are and the rules remain the same,’’ said Rebrasse. ’I’m not worried about fighting in London in front of George’s fans. I will not be rattled. I have fought away from home before and I have won away from home, it will be no different on September 20.’’

Return of the Saint: Groves vs. Rebrasse will be shown live on Sky Sports 2. Tickets are available via axs.com or by calling 08448 24 48 24.

On September 20, ‘’Saint’’ George Groves (19-2, 15 KOs) returns in a final eliminator for the WBC World Super Middleweight title against European Champion Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 6 KOs). Team Sauerland is pleased to announce that the ‘’Return of the Saint’’ will be available to watch live on Sky Sports in association with Matchroom Boxing.

‘’I am thrilled to be back boxing on Sky Sports,’’ said Groves. ‘’It is a great platform for boxing in the UK. Over the years I have made a lot of friends within the company and created a base of fantastic fans with the help of their exposure. I’m sure with their continued support everyone will be able to see me lift the WBC belt live on Sky Sports in the near future.’’

Said promoter Nisse Sauerland: ‘’We are delighted this fight will be on Sky Sports, where George has found his home in recent years. Considering the importance of this fight for George’s career, this is the icing on the cake in terms of making it a big night for British boxing. We are also very happy to be working with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing to bring fans an action-packed undercard.’’

Said Eddie Hearn: “Delighted to reach an agreement with Team Sauerland to broadcast George Groves’ clash with Christopher Rebrasse at The SSE Arena on Sky Sports. Following the success of the Froch vs. Groves card at Wembley Stadium, we felt it was important to keep George on Sky, with some huge domestic and international fights at Super Middleweight sure to be in the mix. The undercard will feature a number of top Matchroom Boxing fighters, with a full card to be announced shortly

Already confirmed for September 20 are Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell MBE (7-0, 5 KOs), Commonwealth Super Flyweight Champion Kal Yafai (11-0, 8 KOs), lightweight prospect Martin J. Ward (9-0-1, 4 KOs), Swedish KO king Oscar Ahlin (9-0, 8 KOs) and professional debutant Luke Watkins.

Tickets for Return of the Saint: Groves vs. Rebrasse at The SSE Arena, Wembley on September 20 are available via axs.com.

‘’Saint’’ George Groves (19-0, 15 KOs) returns on 20th September in a final eliminator for the WBC World Super Middleweight title against European Champion Christopher Rebrasse (22-2-3, 5 KOs). Rebrasse’s European title and the vacant WBC Silver Super Middleweight title will also be on the line when the pair meet at the SSE Arena in Wembley.

‘’It is great to be back here in Wembley and back to world-class boxing,’’ said Groves at today’s press conference. ‘’Last time I was here it didn’t go the way I had hoped but I showed that I belong at the top level. In boxing sometimes all it takes is one punch, and it took just one punch to derail my world title ambitions in May. But we are back on the road and the journey will continue on 20th September at the SSE Arena in Wembley.

‘’This is a perfect fight for me. Rebrasse is a good opponent with a good record. Win this fight and I am back in the picture that is vitally important. I can’t wait to be world champion and it will happen in the near future. It is good to be back in boxing and back in at the deep end.”

Groves’ opponent Rebrasse, the reigning European Champion, appeared in a confident mood at today’s press conference, unfazed at the prospect of facing ‘’The Saint’’ on his home soil.

‘’A ring is a ring whether you are in England or France,’’ said Rebrasse. ‘’It may be a risk coming to England but it is a risk I am willing to take. I am looking forward to this fight. We will see what happens on 20th September.’’

Promoter Kalle Sauerland said ‘’We are delighted to be staging our first UK show here at The SSE Arena in Wembley and even more delighted to be working with George. He has proven himself as one of the most exciting Super Middleweights on the planet. He is someone we know can go right the way to the top. We look forward to fireworks on September 20th.’’

Tickets for Groves vs. Rebrasse will go on sale on Friday 11th July at 10am and will be available via 08448 24 48 24 and www.axs.com.

By Bart Barry–

Saturday at London’s Wembley Stadium British super middleweight titlist Carl “The Cobra” Froch stood before 80,000 of his countrymen, and across from a particularly obstinate one named George Groves, and told them to set aside the ample achievements of a career he casually calls “unbelievable” and judge his legacy on one criterion: How he acquitted himself in what 36 minutes followed. And then in the final 20 seconds of round 9, roughly 27 minutes into a pitched rematch, Froch struck Groves with a right cross so pure that in a flash it made Froch the historic sports figure he desperately wishes to be.

Whatever aficionados opined of him Saturday morning or opine of him today, Carl Froch knows what he is about. That attribute distinguishes him much as another. It is what allowed him to take his talent to a place his athleticism did not anticipate, an athleticism that suffered no loneliness, there: Who seeing Froch for the first time across from Andre Dirrell, in their memorably awful 2009 fight, anticipated the run Froch concluded Saturday?

Froch has been for the most part unabashed about conceding his use of a sports psychologist, which is likely not his first psychologist nor his last, and that sort of disinterested observation, reportage and maintenance from another can be quite a boon for an athlete who seeks an advantage of any kind over an athletically superior opponent – especially since many if not most of the men Froch has vanquished since 2008 have been, on paper, or in a gym, or on a track, or anywhere other than a prizefighting ring, superior to him. If Froch’s self-belief is by definition absurd it is nevertheless held deeply enough to be unreachable by any punch or word.

When Froch’s identity, not his shtick but his identity, is challenged – and unlike many an American athlete, Froch is exact in his separation of identity and shtick, knowing where they overlap and where one is devoid of the other, as evidenced by his self-deprecation about using the autobiographical title “international superstar” before his November match with Groves, a touch of self-awareness Floyd Mayweather couldn’t find on Freud’s couch itself – Froch looks upon his inquisitor not with contempt so much as incredulity: If you told Carl Froch his comportment is not the finest example of such in contemporary prizefighting, he’d not give you a look reserved for the enemy so much as a three-headed extraterrestrial.

Because Froch knows what he is about he can be vulnerable in moments that strike unpredictably as his jab, he can kneel before Rachael Cordingley, the model and mother of his children, minutes after the greatest moment in his storied career and sheepishly ask her hand in marriage, and then, sitting mashed on the apron against a man he put in an oxygen mask not a half-hour before, confess even more sheepishly he’d gone and asked his “sneaky question” and that she’d said yes. That vulnerability is what makes his courage and confidence and arrogance still more fascinating, especially when presented to American ears not accustomed to the mother tongue spoken well by athletes.

That fascination came through in Paulie Malignaggi’s voice, Saturday. The man voted by the Boxing Writers Association of America 2013’s best broadcast journalist was part of a three-man Sky Sport’s telecast that offered more insight between rounds than HBO’s four-man crew offered in the month of April, and he was not timid in his praise of Froch, saying Froch had done something exceptional – an observation no doubt aided by Malignaggi’s presence in Wembley Stadium, where, coincidentally, the biggest prizefight of 2014 happened approximately a continent and an ocean away from HBO’s nearest production truck. Malignaggi is a real dude, oftentimes too real, a man whose struggles for an unshakeable identity have happened publicly – who does not remember what befell his coiffure when last Malignaggi graced a British boxing ring? – but a man whose self-belief, too, is more settled than most, and a man who captured with his words and voice what every man who watched Saturday felt: Right now, I wish I was Carl Froch.

It strains one’s imagination to think the man who fought Albert Rybacki in 2008 would be fighting before 80,000 of his countrymen six years later, and it is exactly impossible to imagine that same man in that same situation would land the punch Froch did to take his rematch with Groves, instantly, from competitive scrap to sympathetic spectacle. Who that saw Groves reduced from a man to an accordion in round 9 by Froch’s perfectly leveraged right cross did not for a second or two feel remorse for the cruelty that felled Groves, the unrelenting self-promoter?

It was not Froch’s 3-2 combo, left hook-right cross, that ended Britain’s largest post-war prizefight so perfectly, or at least not just Froch’s combo. No, it was the feint that did it, too, the threatened malice, fortified by what 3-2 combos Froch landed imprecisely in rounds 5 and 6 and 8, that froze all but Groves’ rear guard, allowing Froch to step deeply into Groves’ space and connect flush with the hardest righthand thrown by a Brit since heavyweight Lennox Lewis nearly decapitated Hasim Rahman with the same combination in 2001.

Froch should retire on that perfect punch, and he acknowledged such on Sky Sports’ telecast, conceding nothing he does for the rest of his life will surpass what he did Saturday, but he’s a fighter, all fighter, and that means his retirement timing is necessarily poor as his courage is long, and he’ll come to the late-arriving artificiality of a Las Vegas prizefighting crowd sometime before he’s done and “see my name in lights” – whatever exactly he means by that. If his options comprise a beating of Mexican Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., a rematch with American Andre Ward, or a tilt with unproven Kazakhstani middleweight Gennady Golovkin, Froch ought choose Chavez – allowing Ward the ongoing joy of semiretirement and telling Golovkin first to prove himself at least George Groves’ equal.

It matters little, ultimately, as this truism will persist: If every prizefighter were like Carl Froch, ours would be the world’s most popular sport.

Bart Barry can be reached at bart.barrys.email (at) gmail.com

Carl Froch silenced any critics as he stopped George Groves for the 2nd time in eight months, this time in front of over 80,000 spectators at Wembley Stadium in London to retain his IBF/WBA Super Middleweight titles.

Groves boxed well over the first four rounds as he was quicker with the jab and landed an occasional right hand against Froch, who looked lethargic as he did not turn up his energy. Froch started landing with some solid shots in round five and began to slowly dictate the action. In round six and seven, Froch continued to come on strong by mixing in body shots.

In round eight, Froch landed a booming right hand that sent Groves down. With Groves’leg bent underneath him, referee Charlie Fitch immediately waved the fight off at 2:43 of round eight.

Froch, 167 1/4 lbs of Nottingham, England is now 33-2 with 24 knockouts. Groves, 166 1/4 lbs of London is now 19-2.

Follow all the action when Carl Froch and George Groves get it on in an highly anticipated Super Middleweight title rematch that will take place in front of over 80,000 fans in Wembley Stadium. The action begins at 4 PM ET / 9 PM in London.

REFRESH EVERY COUPLE MINUTES FOR LIVE UPDATES

12 ROUNDS–WBA/IBF SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE–CARL FROCH (32-2, 23 KO’S) VS GEORGE GROVES (19-1, 15 KO’S)

Round 1 Both guys jabbing…Groves lands a jab..Froch lands a jab..right…10-9 Froch

Round 2 Exchange of rights..quicjk left from Groves...19-19

Round 3 Froch lands a hard right…Groves lands a better right..jab to the body..right over the top…2 good left hooks…right..29-28 Groves

Round 4 Right from Groves…Left and right from Groves…good 1-2…1-2…left hook from Froch..left…Froch lands to the body…39-37 Groves
GRound 5 Hard right by Froch..wobbles Groves to the ropes..Groves lands a right..Hard right..Hard body shots from Froch…48-47 Groves

Round 6 Froch lands a right…Froch lands a combo on ropes...57-57

Round 7 Hard left from Groves…another left..Froch lands a flurry of body punches..Good right…67-66 Froch

Round 8 Froch lands a right…Body shots..HARD RIGHT AND DOWN GOES GROVES AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

By Norm Frauenheim

London’s Wembley Stadium will be the stage Saturday for what figures to be a terrific rematch in the second edition of Carl Froch-versus-George Groves and an even better lesson for what ails the business in North America.

It’s pretty simple, obvious enough to be embarrassing. Give the fans what they want. From New York to Las Vegas and Los Angeles, that market fundamental has been lost, or perhaps ignored for all the tired reasons that have been reported ad nauseam for the last few years.

It’s an era that should be remembered for Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr. and maybe a rematch or two. Instead, it’s marked by the deadly Top Rank-Golden Boy feud that denied customers what they have wanted the most.

The Wembley crowd is expected to be 80,000, a UK record, for a fight between two very good super-middleweights. Yet, neither Froch nor Groves will ever be Mayweather and Pacquaio, who were and perhaps still are the best of their generation. If Froch and Groves can draw 80,000 to an arena for a grudge match-turned-spectacle, imagine what Mayweather could have done, or perhaps can still do.

Froch-Groves is essentially a UK story full of tension between the two and controversy about a debatable stoppage that allowed Froch to win a ninth-round TKO last November in Manchester. But their rematch is also a snapshot look at what could have – should have – been. The world has wanted Pacquaio-Mayweather.

The good news in Froch-Groves is that it is a sure sign business can thrive if it’s done right, which simply means that the customers are always more important than promotional egos. After all, Froch could have walked away, or hid behind some marketing spin or manufactured social polls in an attempt to fight somebody else. But that would have been running away from what the market demands. That would have been stupid. Froch isn’t. A record crowd is about to thank him.

The bad news, at least in North America, is in declining television numbers for major bouts over the last few months. HBO’s pay-per-view buy rate for Pacquiao’s rematch victory over Timothy Bradley on April 12 at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand was reported to have been between 750,000 and 800,000. Solid, yet short of the million milestone. As of Thursday, there was still no official word on Showtime’s PPV buy rate for Mayweather’s majority decision over Marcos Maidana on May 3, also at the MGM Grand. Fair or not, a slow count means Showtime is no rush to report disappointing numbers, which have been speculated to be about 900,000, also short of the million marker.

Numbers can be twisted into equations that serve just about any agenda. But the last two from Pacquiao and Mayweather point to the same result: Exasperation at no Mayweather-Pacquiao is beginning to add up to fewer customers.

A further red flag was raised Saturday in light-heavyweight Adonis Stevenson’s surprisingly difficult decision over Andrzej Fonfara in a non-PPV bout in Montreal. In his first fight since jumping from HBO to Showtime in late March after signing with advisor Al Haymon, the Stevenson-featured card drew an average audience of 672,000, according to Nielsen. The rating peaked at 800,000 for Stevenson-Fonfara.

Stevenson’s last fight on HBO — a sixth-round stoppage of Tony Bellew in November – drew a reported audience of 1.3 million, also for a non-PPV bout. Some difference was expected, because HBO has a bigger universe (29 million) than Showtime (23 million). But even at the 800,000 peak for the victory over Fonfara, the audience for Stevenson was down by half-a-million.

Forget the marketing spin, which will try to explain away the decline. Like the latest returns from Pacquiao and Mayweather, the Stevenson numbers are rooted in what the customers have been denied. Before Stevenson jumped to Showtime and Haymon, there was momentum for a Stevenson-Sergey Kovalev fight.

Kovalev-Stevenson wasn’t Pacquiao-Mayweather, but it was a good alternative for fans weary of not getting the fights they wanted the most. Just when it looked as if the bout would happen late this year, Stevenson walked away from the blockbuster. A lot of customers joined him.

Many more will walk away from a lot more if feuding promoters don’t pay attention to Froch and Groves to a London primer in basic business sense.

Below are quotes from today’s Froch vs. Groves II Final press conference in London. Froch vs. Groves II happens Saturday, May 31 live on HBO beginning at 4:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Carl Froch
“I still can’t believe that we’ll be walking out in front of 80,000 fans, boxing fans and non-boxing fans.”

“I’ve prepared for this fight like no other fight before. Unbelievable shape. Just perfect shape.”

“I’m extremely confident and I put a lot of my confidence down to my…boxing career.”

“I think every fight in every professional boxer’s career is equally as important. This one, because of the stage in my career, because of these two world titles, because it’s an immediate return against George Groves, has an air of importance.”

“This is by far the biggest fight of my unbelievable career.”

“Hardcore boxing fans know what I’m about. And when I turn up in the shape I’m in now, you’ve seen it time and time again against top competition, I’ve proved I can perform.”

“I know what I need to do and I know how to do it.”

George Groves
“This couldn’t be more perfect really. I’m going to become World Champion in London.”

“56 hours seems a little too long for me right now.”

“I’m fortunate that I’m in that situation. Saturday night I will arrive, fully, properly. No stone will be left unturned. We are fully prepared.”

“It will be the left hook that finishes Carl Froch on Saturday night.”

“I could’ve gone 12 rounds the first time. The referee shouldn’t have stopped the fight. That’s why we’re here right now.”