Sena Agbeko won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Isaiah Steen in a super middleweight bout at Ballys Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Agbeko landed 75 of 308 punches. Steen was 73 of 365.

Agbeko, 167.2 lbs of Accra, GHA won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 and is now 27-2. Steen, 166.2 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 16-1.

Taylor Decisions Harrington

Marquis Taylor won an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Marlon Harrington in a super welterweight fight.

Taylor landed 156 of 520 punches. Harrington landed 54 of 341.

Taylor, 154 lbs of Galena Park, TX won by scores of 80-72 and 79-73 twice and is now 13-1-2. Harrington, 153.6 lbs of Detroit, MI is 8-1.

Johnson Decisions Garcia

Moses Johnson took an entertaining eight-round majority decision over Elvis Garcia in a heavyweight bout.

Johnson lanaded 190 of 568 punches; Garcia was 209 of 528.

Johnson, 259 lbs of Huntington, NY won by scores of 77-75 twice and 76-76 and is now 9-0-1. Garcia, 232.8 lbs of Xalisco Nayarit, MEX is 12-1.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – October 20, 2022 – Cleveland’s fast-rising blue-chip prospect Isaiah Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) and dangerous power-puncher Sena Agbeko (26-2, 21 KOs), representing Nashville, Tenn., both made weight at Thursday’s official weigh-in a day ahead of their 10-round super middleweight main event on SHOBOX: The New Generation tomorrow night, Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME as the prospect developmental series returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Casino & Resort, the site of the first SHOBOX^® 21 years ago, for the second time in two months.

In the co-feature, perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO), from Houston, Texas, takes on undefeated Detroit native Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction. Plus, undefeated heavyweight prospects Elvis Garcia (12-0, 9 KOs) and Moses Johnson (8-0-1, 7 KOs), from Huntington, N.Y., square off in an intriguing eight-round bout that opens the telecast.

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties. The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

The event is promoted by Salita Promotions.

FINAL WEIGHTS

Super Middleweight 10-Round Bout

Isaiah Steen – 166.2 lbs.

Sena Agbeko – 167.2 lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Mark Consentino (N.J.), Anthony Lundy (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.)

Super Welterweight Eight-Round Bout

Marquis Taylor – 154 lbs.  

Marlon Harrington – 153.6 lbs.

Referee: Ricardo Vera; Judges: Jacklyn Atkins (N.J), Tony Lundy (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.)

Heavyweight Eight-Round Bout

Elvis Garcia – 232.8 lbs.

Moses Johnson – 259 lbs.

Referee: Charles Fitch; Judges: Jacklyn Atkins (N.J.), Mark Consentino (N.J.), Joseph Pasquale (N.J.)

FINAL QUOTES:

Isaiah Steen

“This is one of my biggest fights. My layoff was just due to a lot of fights and shows not happening and opponents backing out but I was always in the gym getting ready for the opportunity.

“I’m going to out-box him and use my speed. I know he’s a power-puncher but I’m going to shock the world.

“My last fight on SHOBOX I was out-boxing Kalvin Henderson in the beginning of the fight, and I was trying to take him out. It didn’t go according to the game plan. I changed the game plan and used my jab to get the victory.

“I was at the fight when Kalvin Henderson challenged David Morrell in June [on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^®]. That was supposed to be me in there against Morrell. I should have faced him.

“Sparring with [my half-brother] Charles Conwell has been great. He’s really pushed me and shown me a lot of inside game stuff, so I’m well prepared for this fight on the inside. I’m well prepared for this fight. Nothing worries me about him but he should be worried about me for this fight.”

Sena Agbeko

“I’m one of the best super middleweights in the world. I just need the stage to prove it. I know a little bit about him. After I beat my last opponent, apparently Steen wanted to fight me. As fate would have it, his opponent fell through and he reached out and I said, ‘Let’s get it on.’ I imagine that Isaiah is right around the same level as my last opponent. I know he’s a young, hungry fighter but I believe I’m hungrier. This is an opportunity for me and I’m ready to take it.

“For me, every fight at this point is an opportunity to prove that I’m world championship material. My goal is to get a big opportunity against a big-name fighter, to get the win and to keep pushing forward. Isaiah Steen wasn’t expected but I had been training all along so when I got the call, I was excited. I immediately said yes.

“I thought I did pretty well against Vladimir Shishkin… That fight taught me that defense alone doesn’t win fights. You have to also be able to inflict serious damage so I’ve definitely done my homework and I’m ready to reintroduce myself.

“Isaiah has a little bit of everything. He can box when he wants to and he can be an aggressive brawler when he wants to be. For me, my biggest advantage is the experience level. I feel like he hasn’t really fought that many high caliber opponents. I’ve been around a long time. I’ve been through the mill but I don’t think he’s been through the mill. When we get to the late rounds, we’ll see how he responds. I’m prepared for whatever.

“I think that most media when they talk about my power, they make it like I’m some devastating power and I hit hard. But I believe what really works for me is slowly breaking down my opponents through the rounds and then eventually I take them out of there. I don’t think I have that one-punch Mike Tyson power. I don’t have any of that. I believe it’s more breaking down my opponents down round by round and then eventually getting them out of there. I’m not the guy that looks for one-punch knockouts.

“I would love a world championship opportunity and at the moment Canelo has all the belts so I know I have to work my way up. I already have some names in mind but I’m not looking ahead of Steen. The goal is to get past him and then I’ll lay out my plan for the world to see.”

Marquis Taylor

“The draw with Paul Kroll on SHOBOX still doesn’t sit right with me but I’m still grateful for the opportunity and the exposure. More people know who Marquis Taylor is, so still a positive came of that. I learned that I have to get stronger than what I was in February. I learned that when I’m in a position to hurt my opponent, I have to go for it. I hurt Kroll a couple of times. I did go back to the gym and worked on my jab, strength and conditioning, and this time when my opponent is in danger, I’m looking for a better outcome.

“I’m looking to be in the conversation with all the top 10 guys at 154 pounds. I’m trying to get any of them in the ring. It’s just a matter of getting an opportunity to show everyone the level I’m actually on. I’ve been working a lot on head movement and bending my knees more, using my legs when I throw my shots, just sitting down more on my punches but still having good defense.

“COVID was a very confusing time for everyone but one thing I tried to do was find a way to train every day. I didn’t just sit and wait around. I did a lot of running, a lot of shadowboxing. I even changed the way I was eating because I was trying to stay at 147 pounds. I wanted to be like Thomas Hearns where I won a title at 147 pounds and then at 160 and 175. I really wanted to stay at 147. I even gave up beef and chicken and turkey and became a pescatarian. But those two years hurt me because when I tried to make 147 again, it just couldn’t be done.

“I was a bit of a different fighter when I emerged from the pandemic but these last few months, I’ve been getting back to myself, becoming more aggressive, sitting down on my shots, working on the sharpness of my punches. You can expect my punches to be way sharper and to have more of an effect. You can say I’m training for a knockout. I’m not a Tyson or a Deontay Wilder but I’ve been working on my technique and strength, and I want every fight to be better than the last.”

Marlon Harrington

“I’m expecting this to be a very good fight. I’m not looking to go the distance. I’m just going to go in there and implement my game plan. I’m trying to get him out of there. I’m coming in ready and I’m coming in to fight.

“I feel like I have one-punch power, concussive power, the kind of power where I can definitely end the fight with one punch.

“I’ve been cutting hair since I was 12. I have a nice clientele at home. That’s what I do. I’m a barber. Besides being a father and a fighter, I work at a barbershop. It’s my main source of income. I cut hair six days a week, with one day of rest so I can chill with my children.

“I like to play around with being a southpaw a lot once I get into a rhythm, but I’m mainly orthodox. When do I change to southpaw? I’m just in there creating, just having fun in there. I don’t know what I’m actually going to do until I do it. When it comes to turning southpaw, I just turn and let my hands go. So I think it tricks the opponent, especially if I get a guy hurt. It’s a different look, that’s the advantage it gives me.

“When I was getting people out there early, you don’t really learn anything. Going more rounds, I’ve actually learned a lot more. I learned I had to bite down and to relax. That’s the biggest thing, to not get over-anxious and exert more energy than I need to. Going those extra rounds actually helps.

“Before I got into boxing, I was doing bar fighting and street fighting. But in boxing, you’re actually fighting someone who knows how to fight versus some bum who’s been smoking and drinking and has a chip on their shoulder. I was the guy in the neighborhood who people would just call me and I’d just pull up and put the gloves on and fight, like street-fighting. I went to a boxing gym because I wanted to see if I could learn the fundamentals of fighting and that’s when I fell in with it and started taking it more seriously. I took a couple losses in street fighting but it built character.

“I first realized I had power when I was 17 when I knocked out someone for the first time and he was out cold. That’s when I knew I had real power. I’m looking to take my career as far as my body will take me. I’m looking to make a name. I’m here and I’m not looking to lay down for anyone. Am I looking for the KO? I’m punching to hurt you, so if you come at me, that’s what I’m going to do.

“Either the referee is going to stop it or I’ll stop it. I imagine my opponent has the same attitude. I know he comes to fight. He looks legit. This is the fight I need.”

Elvis Garcia

“I get my work ethic from my dad, who moved our family to Oregon when I was a kid. He picked strawberries and cherries in the fields. I started doing that when I was 13.

“I came to boxing later and started in MMA. I wanted to improve my striking so I thought I’d try boxing. I really started it to lose weight, and I just kept progressing and got a little more motivated and kept taking the opportunities as they came to me. I thought maybe I could be the first Mexican heavyweight world champion, but Andy Ruiz took that first. 

“I have a newborn baby now and it’s changed everything, just my mindset and how I approach things. I feel more pressure and know that I’m doing it more than just for me. I want to do everything for her and provide for my family and give them a different lifestyle. I don’t want them to struggle.

“Right now, my footwork is my best attribute. I can work the angles a lot better than I used to. The jiu jitsu I did as a kid really helped me with my flexibility but for my footwork the wrestling really helped me. My best punch is my right hand – my overhand right.

“My brother is the one who has always pushed me and always believed in me. He said I always had the talent, I just had to believe in it.

“I sparred with a lot of top guys like Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua. He once called me his ‘secret weapon’ because I was always applying the pressure.”

Moses Johnson

“I believe I’m going to be the heavyweight world champion. I’m around one of the best teams in boxing. I’m around great up-and-coming fighters and guys like B-Hop (Bernard Hopkins) and Chris Colbert. I’m training with these guys every day. My coaches don’t train me as a heavyweight. They make me push it out every session.

“It’s boxing for me 100 percent. I did work with kids who have disabilities. But now I just train and just fight.

“I’ve sparred with guys like Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller, Otto Wallin, all the top competition. I haven’t sparred yet with Tyson Fury or Wilder or Joe Joyce, but a lot of the top guys.

“I need to work on everything to get to that next level. To be at the top you have to work on everything. You have to have a good jab, you have to have good counter punching, you have to have good movement. And not just one technique. Unless you are Wilder and you have that right hand. But if that doesn’t work you have to have good boxing skills. You have to know how to coFunter and how to jab and how to position yourself to throw certain punches.

“I know nothing about Elvis. The way we train, we’re prepared for whatever. It doesn’t matter if they are a boxer or a brawler. We train so that we are ready for anything and everything in the ring.

“Boxing is my life. I love fighting and I think about it all the time. I’m always watching boxing videos and always reading up on it. I’m just so into it. If you’re going to do something you have to be all in. You can’t be half in.”

# # #

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

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

NEW YORK – October 7, 2022 – Fast-rising blue-chip prospect Isaiah Steen will get a chance to slingshot himself up the super middleweight rankings when he takes on dangerous power-puncher Sena Agbeko on Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT in the latest edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation. The telecast features four undefeated prospects and six fighters with a combined record of 87-3-2 and returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Casino and Resort, site of the first SHOBOX^® 21 years ago, for the second time in two months.

The heavy-handed Agbeko (26-2, 21 KOs) steps in to face Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) in the 10-round main event at 168 pounds after light heavyweight prospect Ali Izmailov withdrew from his main event with Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic for health reasons. Both Steen and Agbeko are SHOBOX alumni, making their contest a classic crossroads matchup of prospects to determine who’s a contender and who has to work to get back into position in the division.

“Steen vs. Agbeko is an exciting main event and the winner of the fight will be a bona fide world title contender in the super middleweight division,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “This is an amazing matchup on a talent-stacked card featuring nothing but pick ‘em fights.”

The co-feature will match Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) against David Stevens (11-0, 8 KOs) in an intriguing eight-round super middleweight contest between undefeated American prospects. Opening the broadcast will be perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO) taking on undefeated Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction. Included in the telecast will be highlights of an intriguing eight-round clash between undefeated heavyweight prospects Moses Johnson (8-0-1, 7 KOs) and four-time Oregon Golden Gloves champion Elvis Garcia (12-0, 9 KOs).

The chiseled Agbeko represents the most accomplished opponent of Steen’s career, having gone the distance against undefeated contender and highly decorated amateur Vladimir Shishkin in February 2021 on SHOBOX. Agbeko has since won three straight matches, all by stoppages. Most recently he TKO’d then 22-1-1 Winfred Harris Jr. this past July to earn this shot. Originally from Accra, Ghana, home to many top Ghanaian boxers, such as two-division champion Azuman Nelson, Agbeko now calls Nashville, Tenn., home.

“I’m so excited for this opportunity. This is what I train for, to fight on the biggest stages,” Agbeko said. “I know he’s young and he’s hungry and has also been previously featured on the SHOBOX series but it’s not going to be easy for him. It’s going to be a battle of wills and may the better man win.”

Steen returns to SHOBOX after recording the biggest win of his career against the previously undefeated Kalvin Henderson on July 2021 on SHOBOX (Highlights HERE). An aggressive, come-forward fighter who likes to dig to the body, Steen is the half-brother of super welterweight contender and former U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell. The two shared the same card in August 2020 when Steen of Cleveland, Ohio showed off his power with a first-round TKO of tough Kenneth Council. That was the seventh time Steen stopped his opponent in the first round. Like his half-brother, the 6-2 Steen was a decorated amateur, going 85-15 in the unpaid ranks before he turned pro in 2016. Born in Detroit, Mich., Steen started boxing when he was seven.

“I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity,” Steen said, “and looking forward to facing a great opponent in Agbeko and showcasing my skills.”

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now priced at $40, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at TicketWeb.com.

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties.

SHOBOX: The New Generation is executive produced by Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

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

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

NEW YORK – October 3, 2022 – Blue chip prospect and top-ten ranked light heavyweight Ali Izmailov will face the toughest test of his young career when he takes on former world title challenger Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic on Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT in the latest edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation. The telecast features five undefeated prospects and six fighters with a combined record of 88-2 and returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, site of the first SHOBOX^® 21 years ago for the second show in as many months.

The John David Jackson-trained Izmailov (9-0, 6 KOs) and veteran power-puncher Kalajdzic (27-2, 19 KOs) will square off in a 10-round light heavyweight bout. The co-feature matches a pair of undefeated, aggressive prospects in Isaiah Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) clashing with Elvis Figueroa (11-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight contest. The telecast opens with Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) taking on David Stevens (11-0, 8 KOs) in another intriguing eight-round super middleweight matchup between undefeated American prospects. Included in the telecast will be highlights of perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO) taking on undefeated Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now priced at $40, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at TicketWeb.com.

“Once again SHOBOX demonstrates its commitment to showcasing the sports’ most compelling and gifted prospects and providing them with a platform to perform at their very best,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation. “With a victory, relatively unknown Ali Izmailov will cement himself as a contender as he faces by far his toughest test to date against former title challenger Radivoje Kalajdzic. In the two opening bouts, we feature four undefeated super middleweight prospects with impressive amateur credentials and high expectations. SHOBOX returnee Isaiah Steen is matched tough against Elvis Figueroa, while the Buddy McGirt-trained Sean Hemphill faces the Ronnie Shields-trained David Stevens in a matchup of talented fighters and elite trainers.”  

Added promoter Dmitriy Salita, “This is a fantastic fight card from top to bottom with pick ‘em fights throughout the show. As a fight fan, I can’t wait to see what unfolds. We are excited about promoting this amazing fight card on SHOWTIME live from Bally’s in Atlantic City.”

Here is a closer look at the matchups:

Izmailov vs. Kalajdzic – 10-Round Light Heavyweihgt Main Event Bout

Ranked No. 7 by the WBC, No. 9 by the IBF and No. 11 by the WBO after just nine fights, Izmailov is a fast-rising force in the light heavyweight division. A former amateur standout having won multiple elite international tournaments, Izmailov, economical and efficient in the ring, has been matched tough throughout his professional career. In his second fight, he cruised to a six-round unanimous decision over 30-fight veteran Dmitry Sukhotskiy and followed that up with a dominant performance against once-beaten Sergei Ekimov. Since making his U.S. debut in October 2021, Izmailov is 4-0 with 3 KOs against competition with a combined record of 51-10. He has back-to-back wins over undefeated opponents, including most recently a unanimous decision over Eric Murguia in August. Originally from Malgobek, Russia, the 29-year-old Izmailov works and resides with trainer Jackson in Florida.

“I am excited to make my debut on SHOBOX against a very experienced and proven fighter like Kalajdzic,” said the Salita-promoted Izmailov. “I will bring my toolbox and put it to work on October 21 and show the world why I’m the future of the light heavyweight division.”

Kalajdzic, currently ranked No. 7 by the WBO, has proven throughout his 29-fight career that he’s a player in the 175-pound division, unafraid to test himself against the very best. A 6-foot-2 native of Bosnia and Herzegovina, “Hot Rod” turned pro in 2011 and won his first 21 fights before meeting 2012 U.S. Olympian and then-undefeated Marcus Browne in 2016. Kalajdzic, 31, lost a controversial eight-round split decision but rebounded with three straight stoppage victories to earn a world title shot against Artur Beterbiev in 2019. Among those three victories was a 2016 SHOBOX main event fifth-round TKO victory over former amateur standout Travis Peterkin. Against Beterbiev, Kalajdzic suffered a fifth-round loss but has again rebounded with three straight victories as he seeks a shot at redemption and world title glory. 

“Not to overlook Ali Izmailov, as he’s a good fighter, but I can affirm that I’m one of the best light heavyweights in the world,” said Kalajdzic, who lives and trains in St. Petersburg, Fla. “This fight will put me in contention for a world title and I’m confident everyone will see that I belong in the conversation with Dmitry Bivol, Gilberto Ramirez, Anthony Yarde, and those guys. I’m grateful for the opportunity DiBella Entertainment and my management were able to put together with this fight. Expect my best performance come October 21.”

“Hot Rod’s only true loss was to Artur Beterbiev. Everyone saw him get robbed against Marcus Browne,” said Lou DiBella, Kalajdzic’s promoter and President of DiBella Entertainment. “He’s a genuine top contender and will prove it against Ali Izmailov on October 21.”

Steen vs. Figueroa – Eight-Round Super Middleweight Bout

Steen returns to SHOBOX after recording the biggest win of his career against the previously undefeated Kalvin Henderson on July 2021 on SHOBOX (Highlights HERE). An aggressive, come-forward fighter who likes to dig to the body, Steen is the half-brother of super welterweight contender and former U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell. The two shared the same card in August 2020 when Steen of Cleveland, Ohio showed off his power with a first-round TKO of tough Kenneth Council. That was the seventh time Steen stopped his opponent in the first round. Like his half-brother, the 6-2 Steen was a decorated amateur, going 85-15 in the unpaid ranks before he turned pro in 2016. Born in Detroit, Mich., Steen started boxing when he was seven.

“Fighting on SHOWTIME is a huge milestone in my career,” Steen said. “I have stayed in the gym since my last fight on July 23, 2021. My team has made sure that my weight and nutrition are on point. I know I can defeat anyone placed in front of me. Teamwork definitely makes the dream work.”

Figueroa will enter the ring for the third time this year after stopping tough veteran Fidel Monterrosa Munoz in two rounds on August 20. The six-foot New Haven, Conn. product has stopped five of his last six opponents, employing a poised, patient, and hard-punching style. The lone decision was against Ryan Adams on the undercard of a January 7, 2022, edition of SHOBOX in Orlando, Fla. Figueroa, 25, started boxing when he was eight to lose weight and began his amateur career four years later. He is a three-time New England Golden Gloves champion and 2015 USA National Championship silver medalist. Among his amateur victories, he owns a decision win over undefeated super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga.

Hemphill vs. Stevens – Eight-Round Super Middleweight Bout

Trained by Hall of Famer James “Buddy” McGirt, Hemphill made his pro debut in 2019 and has already reeled off 14 consecutive wins after a standout amateur career. In his last bout, Hemphill scored an eight-round unanimous decision over Jeyson Minda in front of his hometown New Orleans fans in January. The 26-year-old known as “Silky” fought three times in 2021, four times in 2020 and six times in 2019. Stevens will be the first undefeated opponent of Hemphill’s career with multiple wins. Hemphill is managed by Adam Glenn, son of the late Jimmy Glenn, who owned the beloved Jimmy’s Corner bar in Midtown Manhattan and was a well-known, iconic figure in boxing circles. Hemphill was a member of Team USA during a stellar amateur career (55-12) that saw him rise to become one of the top light heavyweights in the country. His nickname “Silky” is an amalgamation of his dad’s nickname from his kickboxing days (“Spyder”) and his smooth fighting style — spiders produce silk.

“This fight means a lot to me,” Hemphill said. “I understand how big of an opportunity fighting on SHOWTIME is for my team and me. This is something I’ve been working towards since I was a kid. I feel like I was born to do this, and I’m ready to show the world why I belong on this stage! Camp is going well with coach Buddy McGirt. He has a lot of knowledge and wisdom that I can use and soak up to help improve my game and skill set.”

Added McGirt, “Sean is a great prospect and a pleasure to work with. He has all the tools to succeed, and I believe, one day, he will become a world champion.”

Stevens, trained by Shields, will enter the ring for the fourth time this year on October 21 when he makes his SHOBOX debut. His busy schedule includes a second-round stoppage of Loris Barberio on July 23 and a first-round TKO of veteran Colby Courter on May 28. The 22-year-old Stevens of Reading, Pa., has stopped four of his last five opponents, relying on a polished skillset and aggressive, hard-punching style. He started boxing when he was 11 and went 60-8 in the amateurs. Among his amateur highlights, he is a two-time Junior Olympic gold medalist, a Silver Gloves champion, Ringside champion, USA Boxing Youth national champion and a Youth World Championships qualifier. 

“I am excited and thrilled to be on SHOBOX in my 12th fight,” Stevens said. “Since training with Ronnie Shields, I have learned so much and will show it on October 21.”

Added Shields, “The thing about David is we don’t know how strong he is yet. I know he’s strong, but I’ve been getting him to focus more on technique than he used to. That makes him very hard to beat. He’s one of those kids who wants to learn everything in the gym. When a kid like him wants to learn everything, every day, I like it because I know I have to bring my A game to the gym all the time. He will go a long way.”

Taylor vs. Harrington – Eight-Round Super Welterweight Bout (Highlights Only)

The 28-year-old Taylor is a nine-year veteran whose toughness and smooth boxing skills have proven to be a puzzle for everyone he’s faced. Taylor fought the undefeated former amateur star Paul Kroll to a controversial split draw on SHOBOX on February 18. He also owns victories over three then-undefeated fighters including Jimmy Williams (14-0-1) and Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (10-0-1), who have both appeared on SHOBOX, and Oscar Torres (8-0). Taylor refined his boxing tools in the amateurs, where he went 130-20.

After turning pro in 2019, Detroit’s Harrington has proven to be a quick study in the ring, knocking out seven of his eight opponents and making quick work with no one advancing past the fourth round. Harrington, who started boxing when he was 19, has worked on his trade through sparring with former champions like Tony Harrison and Cornelius “K9” Bundrage. An aggressive, fan-friendly fighter, Harrington will see action for the fourth time this year on October 21 after last fighting on May 26, knocking out Azael Cosio in the fourth round.

# # #

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties.

SHOBOX: The New Generation is executive produced by Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

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

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

NEW YORK (July 23, 2021) – TONIGHT!! Two undefeated members of the Split-T Management stable will be in action in the main event and co-main event of the ShoBox: The New Generation 20th anniversary card at the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Nebraska.

The SHOWTIME broadcast begins at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT.

In the main event, Split-T Management boxer Isaiah Steen will take on Kalvin Henderson in a super middleweight tussle of undefeated fighters that is scheduled for 10-rounds.

In the co-feature, Janelson Figueroa Bocachica battles Shinard Bunch in a 10-round welterweight bout.

Steen of Cleveland, Ohio has a record of 15-0 with 12 knockouts. The 24 year-old is a five-year professional who has wins against Jamaal Williams (1-0), Carlos Ruiz (8-2), Gorjan Slaveski (5-0) and his last bout when he took out Juan De Angel in five rounds on November 6th in Saint Petersburg, Florida.

Steen is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Productions.

Henderson of Fayetville, Arkansas is 14-0-1 with 10 knockouts. The 31 year-old King’s Promotions fighter, is a five-year pro, who as defeated Cameron Burroughs (2-0), Bobby Taylor (4-0), Brandon Robinson (11-1), and his last bout when stopped Tevin Anderson in five rounds on June 5th in Springdale,h Arkansas.

Isaiah Steen Quotes

“I am very familiar with Kalvin Henderson. It’s a fight that’s been a long time coming. I know that he’s got a good straight right hand but I need to capitalize on his weaknesses and get him out of there. I just need to be busier and outwork him.

“I think my last fight was my best performance. Juan De Angel fought a lot of tough opponents and world champions like Austin Trout and Caleb Plant. I got him out of there and those guys couldn’t get him out. I threw a lot of good body shots. My body shots were there and I did a little more boxing. I showed off my boxing skills.

“I’m so happy to have this opportunity. This is a big step-up for me. It’s the biggest fight of my career so far. I’m ready for the spotlight.

“After this fight, I want people to know me for my own name. Everybody knows me as Charles Conwell’s brother. I want to make a name for myself.”

Steen was 168 lbs. at Thursday’s weigh-in. Henderson was 166.

Bocachica of Detroit is making his third ShoBox appearance, and has a record of 17-0 with 11 knockouts. The 22 year-old Bocachica is a five-year professional with wins over Pablo Sanchez (10-2) as well as his two previous ShoBox wins, which were a sensational 1st round knockout over Nicklaus Flaz (9-1). In his last ShoBox appearance, Bocachica took a 10-round majority decision over Mark Reyes Jr. (14-0) on February 17th in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Bocachica is co-promoted by King’s Promotions and Salita Promotions/

Like Bocachica, Bunch is 22 years-old. The Trenton, New Jersey native has been boxing’s busiest fighter in 2021 as Friday marks the 6th time that Bunch will step through the ropes in the calendar year.

Bunch has a record of 15-1 with 13 knockouts, and has won 13 straight contests. In his last bout, Bunch stopped Diego Vicente Perez in the opening frame on May 8th in Philadelphia.

Janelson Figueroa Bocachica Quotes

“From my last fight, I learned not to be showboating so much. I was comfortable. But you can’t be showboating like that, that’s for sure. I can’t let that happen.

“To me, I felt like I won all 10 rounds in my fight against Mark Reyes. He caught me with clean punches but he never hurt me. He was a strong dude. He didn’t have a ton of power on his shots but he could pick me up, that’s for sure. I had fun the whole 10 rounds, I controlled the fight and it’s something I wouldn’t mind doing again.

“I had never heard of Shinard Bunch until my fight with Mark Reyes. I know that they are sparring partners and teammates. I don’t know why they came for me. They must have heard of me. It’s not a problem, though. I’ll shut down their gym.

“I think Mark Reyes is going to tell Shinard Bunch to run. To not stand there and bang with me. Shinard Bunch isn’t Mark Reyes. Mark Reyes was a shorter, compact fighter. Shinard Bunch is taller and I think he’s going to try to use the jab. But that jab isn’t going to stop me from doing anything.

“I sparred with Tony Harrison and that was great work. I’m getting work from taller guys and guys with a lot of experience. I don’t think this fight is going to be as easy as Shinard Bunch thinks. I saw he was quoted as saying he’s going to fight a smart fight against me. There is no smart fight against me. If he would have had a smart fight, he would have chose somebody else.”

At Thursday’s weigh-in, both Bocachica and Bunch tipped the scales at 146 1/2 lbs.

Photos by Esther Lin / SHOWTIME

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. – July 22, 2021 – Exciting undefeated super middleweight prospects Kalvin Henderson and Isaiah Steen both made weight a day before their main event showdown headlining a special ShoBox: The New Generation 20-year anniversary telecast tomorrow night, Friday, July 23, live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Neb.

Just as it has for the past 20 years, Friday’s tripleheader features prospects matched tough. Henderson (14-0-1,10 KOs) meets knockout artist Steen (15-0, 12 KOs) in the first 10-rounder for both fighters. The co-feature pits ShoBox veteran Janelson Bocachica (17-0, 11 KOs) of Detroit against 21-year-old Shinard Bunch (15-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight bout. In a battle of unbeatens, Martino Jules (10-0-2, 2 KOs) faces Aram Avagyan (10-0-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight affair.

FINAL WEIGHTS

Super Middleweight 10-Round Bout
Kalvin Henderson – 166 pounds
Isaiah Steen – 168 pounds
Referee: Mark Nelson (Minn.) Judges: Josef Mason (Colo.), Mike Contreras (Neb.), Jeff Sinnett (Neb.)

Welterweight 10-Round Bout
Janelson Bocachica – 146 ½ pounds
Shinard Bunch – 146 ½ pounds
Referee: Mark Nelson (Minn.) Judges: Josef Mason (Colo.), Mike Contreras (Neb.), Jeff Sinnett (Neb.)

Featherweight Eight-Round Bout
Martino Jules – 125 ¼ pounds
Aram Avagyan – 129 pounds*
*Avagyan came in over the featherweight limit. The fight will proceed as scheduled.
Referee: Mark Nelson (Minn.) Judges: Josef Mason (Colo.), Mike Contreras (Neb.), John Klemiato (Neb.)

FINAL QUOTES:

Kalvin Henderson

“Boxing is a numbers game. To get to the bigger stage you have to look good on paper. It doesn’t make sense for me to be 13-0 and fight Canelo. So, we have to keep the numbers up. I’ll plan to fight two or three more times this year alone, to make up for 2020 and the pandemic year and being inactive.

“I’m not sure how he’ll fight me. When you look at film of him, he’s always walking forward and letting his hands go. But when I’ve seen him spar he likes to use his jab and use his feet. So we’re prepared for both. It’s all about adjustments and adapting.

“I don’t think he is my toughest opponent, but we’ll see Friday night. I feel like I have to win every fight, but this one especially. This is the third time Steen and I have been matched up, so third time’s a charm. We gotta make this happen.

“I graduated in 2012 with my music degree from the University of Arkansas. As a music major you have to learn every instrument, so I dabble in a lot of them, but my main instrument is percussions. I kind of put everything on hold in 2013 and put all my energy into boxing. But I used to do both. I used to teach part-time at the high school in Fayetteville. And I was also teaching at the gym. But I sat down with my coach and prayed about it and said I can’t be a part-time boxer. So I put everything I had into it. But can I still play drums? Most definitely.

“I think it comes down to whoever imposes the most force will win. He’s skilled, I’m skilled. I’m undefeated, he’s undefeated. When you fight someone who is undefeated you have to break their will because they think they should win too. I really think it will come down who wants it more.”

Isaiah Steen

“I am very familiar with Kalvin Henderson. It’s a fight that’s been a long time coming. I know that he’s got a good straight right hand but I need to capitalize on his weaknesses and get him out of there. I just need to be busier and outwork him.

“I think my last fight was my best performance. Juan De Angel fought a lot of tough opponents and world champions like Austin Trout and Caleb Plant. I got him out of there and those guys couldn’t get him out. I threw a lot of good body shots. My body shots were there and I did a little more boxing. I showed off my boxing skills.

“I’m so happy to have this opportunity. This is a big step-up for me. It’s the biggest fight of my career so far. I’m ready for the spotlight.

“After this fight, I want people to know me for my own name. Everybody knows me as Charles Conwell’s brother. I want to make a name for myself.”

Janelson Bocachica

“From my last fight, I learned not to be showboating so much. I was comfortable. But you can’t be showboating like that, that’s for sure. I can’t let that happen.

“To me, I felt like I won all 10 rounds in my fight against Mark Reyes. He caught me with clean punches but he never hurt me. He was a strong dude. He didn’t have a ton of power on his shots but he could pick me up, that’s for sure. I had fun the whole 10 rounds, I controlled the fight and it’s something I wouldn’t mind doing again.

“I had never heard of Shinard Bunch until my fight with Mark Reyes. I know that they are sparring partners and teammates. I don’t know why they came for me. They must have heard of me. It’s not a problem, though. I’ll shut down their gym.

“I think Mark Reyes is going to tell Shinard Bunch to run. To not stand there and bang with me. Shinard Bunch isn’t Mark Reyes. Mark Reyes was a shorter, compact fighter. Shinard Bunch is taller and I think he’s going to try to use the jab. But that jab isn’t going to stop me from doing anything.

“I sparred with Tony Harrison and that was great work. I’m getting work from taller guys and guys with a lot of experience. I don’t think this fight is going to be as easy as Shinard Bunch thinks. I saw he was quoted as saying he’s going to fight a smart fight against me. There is no smart fight against me. If he would have had a smart fight, he would have chose somebody else.”

Shinard Bunch

“This fight means everything to me. Growing up, it was always a dream of mine to fight on ShoBox or SHOWTIME. Showtime is my actual middle name, so it was always a dream and it was destiny. When I was born, my mom said he’s going to be a star one day and gave me the middle name Showtime.

“I would definitely say that I’m an aggressive boxer. But we take every fight differently. Every fight is different so we come in with a certain game plan for each fight. Sometimes you may see me more relaxed and sometimes you may see me aggressive.

“I was in the same training camp as Mark Reyes and that was my first time hearing about Bocachica. I’m not too familiar with him. I watched his fight against Reyes. I know he likes to get into fire fights, but I need to outwork him. I think my power is severe and it’s real.

“I feel confident going 10 rounds. We’ve been training for that. I’m confident in myself. And as far as the weight, my first six fights were all at 147 pounds. Then I went down and tried 140. The jump in weight isn’t too drastic. I feel more comfortable at 147 pounds but if we get a fight after this at 140, that’s not a problem either.

“I’ve been working with Chino Rivas for eight months. I feel like I benefitted all-around working with him. He put me around some great people, great mentors. He’s always there for me, he cares for me as a person outside of boxing. It’s not just about boxing with him. He’s in my life personally and as a father-figure, it’s definitely benefitting me and it makes me want to work harder. He took Jason Sosa and turned him into a world champion, he took Tevin Farmer and turned him into a world champion so I know he has the ability and the mindset to turn me in to a world champion. He always tells me if I follow his lead, he’ll take me to the promised land.”

Martino Jules

“I describe my style as being a boxer-puncher. As for my opponent, from what I’ve seen I’m a better boxer than he is. He has two more knockout wins than me, so pretty much he knows how to punch. He wants his opponents to stand in front of him and not moving around. Aram opens up a lot, and relies on his power punches.

“I was supposed to fight on ShoBox back in October, but my opponent got sick the day of the fight. It will be great to finally be back in the ring and know that all my hard work and sacrifice has paid off.

“I don’t really know what the future holds or what to expect next. I’m just looking forward to winning and whoever they want to bring to me next, I’ll be ready for them. I’m in the gym every day and training hard to get better. Just like any fighter, I’m ready for the next step. So whatever it is, I’ll be ready for it.”

Aram Avagyan

“I’m a slow starter so I plan to come out a little quicker. Maybe I’ll shadow box two rounds in the locker room before I go out there. After the third and fourth rounds I start to feel better. The longer the fight goes, the better I fight.

“I have observed my opponent and I know his strengths and weaknesses. I don’t want to leave anything to the judges’ decision so I’m looking for the knockout. The public loves an all-action fighter, and that’s what they will see on Friday night. I’m a warrior and I love action.

“Boxing is a mental sport and if you can control your emotions, you can control anything. You can win the fight before the fight. You can mentally break your opponent down.”

#

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
This year, the critically acclaimed prospect developmental series, ShoBox: The New Generation, celebrates its 20th anniversary on the air as it continues to match top young talent tough. Since its inception in July 2001, the ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 84 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

NEW YORK – July 2, 2021 – ShoBox: The New Generation celebrates its 20-year anniversary with a three-fight card headlined by two exciting undefeated super middleweight prospects as Kalvin Henderson takes on Isaiah Steen in a 10-round main event clash Friday, July 23 live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT) from the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Neb.

The popular series ShoBox debuted in Atlantic City on July 21, 2001 and has produced 84 fighters who later went on to win a world title. Just like it has for the past 20 years, the upcoming tripleheader will feature prospects matched tough with a combined record of 81-1-5, including five boxers who have yet to taste defeat at the professional level.

Henderson (14-0-1,10 KOs) matches up against knockout artist Steen (15-0, 12 KOs) in the first 10-rounder for both fighters. The co-feature pits ShoBox veteran Janelson Bocachica (17-0, 11 KOs) of Detroit against 21-year-old Shinard Bunch (15-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight bout. In a battle of unbeatens, Martino Jules (10-0-2, 2 KOs) faces Aram Avagyan (10-0-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight affair.

“This is a milestone ShoBox event and we could not be more excited,” said Gordon Hall, who has served as the executive producer of ShoBox: The New Generation since its inception. “As we celebrate two decades of ShoBox on July 23, we will stay true to our ethos to match undefeated, developing prospects tough. In the main event, undefeated 168-pound prospects with decorated amateur pedigrees will seek a career-best win. The co-feature has the return of fast-rising Janelson Bocachica in a difficult style matchup against the power-punching Bunch, while the opener features a battle of unbeatens that could steal the show. ShoBox remains the sport’s ultimate proving ground for prospects and this event on July 23 is the perfect way to kick off our next decade.”

The event, which is promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions in association with Holden Productions, Salita Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, brings together fighters from seven different boxing promotional and management teams.

Kalvin Henderson vs. Isaiah Steen – 10-round Super Middleweight Main Event

Henderson vs. Steen is a matchup that was originally scheduled for ShoBox in October, before Henderson withdrew during fight week with an illness.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Henderson currently resides and trains out of Fayetteville, Ark., where he was a six-time Arkansas state champion in the amateurs competing in 70 fights. He turned pro in 2016, winning his first 12 fights before fighting Genc Pllana to a draw in 2019. Henderson has prior experience at the Heartland Events Center, knocking out Justin Baesman at the venue in March.

Following high school, Henderson received a music scholarship from the University of Arkansas as a percussionist and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Music Education in 2012. The 30-year-old Henderson is promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions.

“Two undefeated guys coming in on the main event,” said Henderson, who is married with five children. “I know he has a good amateur pedigree and he throws good combinations. He is bringing it and I am bringing it. The third time’s a charm to finally make this fight happen. This is the next step in my career. A lot of fighters have been on ShoBox and have gone on to amazing careers, and now it’s my turn to do the same.”

Like his half-brother, U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell, the 24-year-old Steen of Cleveland also had a successful amateur career with a record of 85-15. In his last fight in November, Steen stopped Colombia’s Juan De Angel with a fifth-round TKO. In February of 2020, Steen needed less than a round to stop Kenneth Council in Hammond, Ind. Steen is co-promoted by Holden and Lou DiBella and managed by David McWater of Split-T Management.

“I have been going from training camp to training camp,” Steen said. “I am going to mix it up, and out box him with a lot of jabs. Then when I see his weakness, I am going to get him out. Kalvin is a come-straight-forward fighter and he punches hard. I was supposed to fight him before, so this fight has been brewing for a while.”

Janelson Bocachica vs. Shinard Bunch – 10-round Welterweight Bout

A native of Puerto Rico and fighting out of Detroit, Mich., Bocachica is just 22 years old and already has five years of pro experience, including two appearances on ShoBox. This will be his third appearance on the series in nine months. He is coming off his best win to date, a majority decision win over previously unbeaten Mark Reyes, Jr. An aggressive, come-forward fighter, Bocachica began boxing at age eight, won four consecutive Ringside Championships (2011-14), the National PAL Championships and the 2015 Detroit Golden Gloves. He boasts an amateur record of 60-5 and beat Brandun Lee in the finals to win the 2014 U.S. Junior National Olympics. He is trained by his father, Nelson Figueroa. Bocachica is managed by McWater and co-promoted by King’s Promotions and Salita Promotions.

“This is what ShoBox is known for: matching up fighters for great fights,” Bocachica said. “Shinard Bunch is a step up in competition. He is from the same gym as Mark Reyes, and you saw what I did to him, On July 23, it will be much of the same. Fighting on SHOWTIME has helped with my profile. When I went to Puerto Rico, people knew who I was because of my previous experience on ShoBox. Being on the platform has brought me many new fans.”

Bunch is a Queens, N.Y.-native living and training in Trenton, N.J. Just 21-years-old, Bunch has been active with five fights in 2020 and five fights thus far in 2021. Bunch has more than 400 amateur fights and started boxing at age 7. He was rated as high as No. 3 in the nation at the 2016 Nationals. Currently riding a 13-fight winning streak, Bunch’s only pro loss came in 2019 in just his third fight, a unanimous loss to Paul Kroll. Bunch is managed by Russell Peltz.

“We are coming to work and make a statement,” Bunch said. “I really do not know too much about my opponent. I know he is a pressure fighter. I am not taking this fight lightly. This is a big fight, and we are going to box smart. This is a blessing to have an opportunity like this. Fighting on ShoBox is something that I have always dreamed of.”

Martino Jules vs. Aram Avagyan – 8-round Featherweight Bout

The 23-year-old southpaw Jules from Allentown, Pa., is coming off his best victory to date in an ESPN bubble fight last July, earning a majority-decision win over Aleem Jumakhonov. Jules is a 2015 Olympic Trials qualifier and had a 60-15 amateur record since turning pro in 2016 and slowly climbing up the featherweight rankings. Jules was scheduled to make his ShoBox debut in January, but his opponent fell ill the morning of his fight and the fight was called off.

“I am grateful for getting this fight,” said Jules, who is promoted by Kings Promotions and managed by Trifon Petrov. “This is something I have been waiting for a year now. I was supposed to fight on ShoBox before, but the fight fell out. I have been staying ready. My opponent is tough, and he comes ready to fight. He has a lot of merit to him, and that is pushing me to be better and I am excited to fight someone that will make me perform at my best.”

Fighting under the Salita Promotions banner, the 30-year-old Avagyan returns to ShoBox for the third time facing his fourth consecutive unbeaten fighter. In January, Avagyan and Panama’s Jose Nunez fought to a majority draw. Avagyan survived two early knockdowns in his debut against then-unbeaten Dagoberto Aguero to earn a majority decision in the last ShoBox telecast before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the sports world for several months in March 2020.

Born and raised in Yerevan, Armenia, and now residing in California, Avagyan is a decorated amateur with more than 300 fights. He captured two Bronze Medals at the European Championships and represented Armenia at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

“I’m always hungry and want to fight and the fact that it will be on the 20-year anniversary of ShoBox is doubly motivating to put on a great show,” said Avagyan. “I’m gradually gaining shape and I have another month to show my best side to all boxing fans. I promise that I’m going to war on July 23. Don’t miss this event and the war of the warrior!”

International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will call the action with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood, former world champion Raul Marquez and special guest Al Bernstein. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

#

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
This year, the critically acclaimed prospect developmental series, ShoBox: The New Generation, celebrates its 20th anniversary on the air as it continues to match top young talent tough. Since its inception in July 2001, the ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 84 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

NEW YORK (November 9, 2020)– This past weekend, Split-T Management fighters were perfect by winning four bouts, which included adding another world champion to boxing’s premier management company.

Friday night in Saint Petersburg, Florida, Kali Reis captured the WBA Super Lightweight World Championship with a 10-round unanimous decision over Kandi Wyatt.

Reis was brilliant throughout the fight as she showed terrific boxing skills and the Providence, Rhode Island native was dominant with a piston-like jab and pinpoint left hooks. Reis moved around the ring with great footwork that set up her shots against the hard charging Wyatt.

Reis took the title by winning by scores of 97-93, 97-92 and 96-94 to become a two-weight division world champion as she had previously won the WBC Middleweight championship.

On the same card, super middleweight Isaiah Steen remained perfect by taking out veteran Juan De Angel in round five of their scheduled six-round bout.

Steen scored two knockdowns which included the final hook that sent De Angel down, and the fight was stopped at 23 seconds of the 5th round. De Angel had previously lasted the distance with world champions Caleb Plan and Austin Trout.

Steen of Cleveland is now 15-0 with 12 knockouts.

The wins by Reis and Steen were seen on Impact Network, and will be replayed on November 14th at 10:30 PM ET

Saturday night in Philadelphia, Mark Dawson shook off a 20-month layoff with a six-round unanimous decision over crosstown rival Vincent Floyd.

Dawson worked well as he was proficient with his overhand left and right hooks from the southpaw stance.

Dawson won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 to raise his mark to 7-0-1.

Also on Saturday night, prized amateur standout Tika Hemingway made her long-awaited professional debut with a four round unanimous decision over Miranda Barber in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards.

Hemingway, who was amateur rivals with Clarissa Shields, and has three wins over WBC and WBO World Champion, Franchon Crews Dezurn.

NEW YORK (November 6, 2020)– Tonight, two members under the Split-T Management banner will be in action at the St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater in Saint Petersburg, Florida.

Kali Reis will take on Kandi Wyatt for the WBA Super Lightweight title; And undefeated super middleweight Isaiah Steen battles Juan De Angel in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

Reis of Providence, Rhode Island has a record of 16-7-1 with five knockouts, and will look to become a two-division world champion, Reis is the former WBC Middleweight champion. She won that title with a 10-round split decision over Maricelo Cornejo on April 16, 2016 in Auckland, New Zealand. Reis has won three in a row, which includes a unanimous decision over Patricia Juarez on August 29, 2019.

Wyatt of Calgary, Alberta, Canada has a record of 10-1 with three knockouts. Wyatt has won two straight and this will be her 2nd attempt at a world title.

Steen, 24 of Cleveland has a record of 14-0 with 11 knockouts. The four-year professional has wins over Carlos Ruiz (8-2) and Gorjan Slaveski (5-0). Steen is coming off a 1st round stoppage over Kenneth Council on February 8th.

De Angel of Barranquilla, Colombia has a record of 22-12-1 with 20 knockouts. He has a win over Jose Pinzon (25-6), and he has also faced world champions Gilberto Ramirez, Austin Trout and Caleb Plant.

Both bouts can be seen Saturday on Impact Network (10:30 PM ET)

At Thursday’s weigh-in, both Reis and Wyatt weighed 139.2 lbs.

Steen weighed 166.6, while De Angel was 167.

Reis is promoted by DiBella Entertainment. Steen is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Productions.

The show is being promoted locally by T&K Promotions.

New York, NY (11/4/20) – Rising, unbeaten super middleweight prospect Isaiah “Zwop” Steen (14-0, 11 KOs), of Cleveland, OH, has been added as the co-featured bout of Friday’s IMPACT Championship Boxing event, which is brought to you by T&K Boxing Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment. The card, headlined by an exciting women’s world title fight between Kali Reis and Kandi Wyatt, takes place this Friday, November 6, from the St. Petersburg Clearwater Marriott, in St. Petersburg, FL, and will premiere on IMPACT Network, Saturday, November 7, at 10:30pm ET.

Fighting in the six-round co-main event, Steen faces hard-hitting Colombian Juan De Angel (22-12, 20 KOs), from Barranquilla. Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Productions, and managed by Split-T Management, Steen is coming off of a first-round knockout win against Kenneth Council on February 8. Steen and his half-brother, super welterweight contender Charles Conwell, were scheduled to share the spotlight last month on SHOWTIME’S “ShoBox” series, but Steen’s bout was cancelled at the last minute when his opponent pulled out with an illness. Trained by Otha Jones and Roshawn Jones, the 6’2” heavy-handed Steen has stopped seven of 11 opponents inside the opening round. Steen began boxing at the age of seven and built an amateur record of 78-24, before his March 2016 pro debut.

In the main event, Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis (16-7-1, 5 KOs), of Providence, RI, will meet Kandi “Krush” Wyatt (10-1, 3 KOs), of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in a 10-round clash with the vacant WBA world female super lightweight title on the line. The winner of this high stakes battle could be in line for unification matches against IBF champion Mary McGee or WBO champion Christina Linardatou.

Elvis Garcia (8-0, 5 KOs) will clash with Dell Long (7-6-2, 4 KOs), of Artie, WV, in an attractive six-round heavyweight bout. Born in Mexico, now living in Indio, CA, trained by Joel Diaz, Garcia returns to the ring following a victory against Hugo Trujillo. He also recently gained invaluable experience working as the “secret weapon sparring partner” that promoter Eddie Hearn referred to with regard to Anthony Joshua’s preparation for his rematch against Andy Ruiz last year. Prior to turning pro, Garcia was an outstanding amateur with a record of 85-10, 42 KOs. After winning gold at the Washington State Golden Gloves, as well as a silver and two bronze medals at USA National Tournaments, Garcia moved to Tijuana, Mexico, where he won the Mexican National Championships and the Mexican Golden Gloves Tournament twice. Long is coming off of an unexpected upset win against Don Haynesworth (16-4-1) on August 29, and he also owns a knockout victory against 13-1 Travis Clark.

Heavyweight prospect Jeremiah Milton (1-0, 1 KO), originally from Tulsa, OK, now based in Las Vegas, NV, will compete in a four-round bout against D’Angelo Swaby (1-1, 1 KO), of Nassau, Bahamas. Milton’s pro debut on August 20 lasted just 75 seconds, ending with a knockout of Dennis Vance Jr. As an amateur, Milton was a super heavyweight silver medalist at the 2019 US Olympic Trials. In preparation for his pro debut, Milton sparred with Luis Ortiz, Joe Joyce and Guido Vianello.

NEW YORK (February 10, 2020) -Split T Management fighters were very successful on Saturday night at the Civic Center in Hammond, Indiana.

The premier boxing management company had all seven of its members come out victorious on the massive card that saw the return of 2016 United States Olympian Charles Conwell

Conwell, who is the USBA Super Welterweight champion, remained undefeated with a 5th round stoppage over Ramses Agaton in a scheduled eight-round bout.

The 22 year-old native of Cleveland, Conwell raised his mark to 12-0 with nine knockouts.

Conwell’s half-brother, Isaiah Steen also remained perfect as he took out Kenneth Council in the opening frame of their scheduled eight-round super middleweight bout.

Steen, 23 years-old of Cleveland is now 14-0 with 11 knockouts.

Ebanie Bridges made a successful American debut as she won a six-round unanimous decision over Crystal Hoy in a bantamweight bout by shutout scores of 60-54 on all cards.

Bridges of New South Wales, Australia is now 4-0.

Junior Welterweight Rolando Vargas stopped Rondale Hubbert in the 2nd round of their scheduled six-round bout.

Vargas, 20 years-old of Milwaukee is now 5-0 with all wins coming via stoppage.

Melissa St. Vil captured the WBO NABO Lightweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jessica Camara.

St. Vil of Brooklyn, who is a two-time world title challenger ups her record to 13-4-4.

Scores were 97-93 and 96-94 twice.

Leatitia Robinson won a six-round unanimous decision over Claire Hafner in a super middleweight bout.

Robinson won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 16-1.

Sarah French won a six-round unanimous decision over Christina Barry in a welterweight bout.

French won by shutout margins of 60-54 and her record is now 5-2-1.

NEW YORK (February 7, 2020) -Three undefeated fighters from the Split-T Management stable will be in action this Saturday night at the Civic Center in Hammond, Indiana.

Junior Middleweight Charles Conwell; super middleweight Isaiah Steen and super lightweight Rolando Vargas will look to keep their perfect records in-tact.

2016 United States Olympian Charles Conwell (11-0, 8 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio will take on Ramses Agaton (22-11-3, 12 KOs) of Mexico in an eight-round bout.

Conwell’s half-brother, Steen (13-0, 10 KOs) of Cleveland tales on Kenneth Council (10-3-1, 8 KOs) of Knoxville, Tennessee in a six-round bout.

Vargas (4-0, 4 KOs) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin takes on his most experienced foe in Rondale Hubbert (13-12-2, 8 KOs) of Fargo, North Dakota in a four-round bout.

At Friday’s weigh-in, Conwell was 155.6 lbs – Agaton was 158.2 lbs; Steen 168.4 lbs vs Kenneth Council 169 lbs; Vargas 138.8 lbs vs Hubbert 142.6 lbs.

Conwell and Steen are Promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Holden Promotions.

NEW YORK (March 4, 2019)-Three members of the Split-T Management stable scored impressive knockouts on Saturday night as part of the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio.

Heavyweight Stephen Shaw raised his mark to 11-0 and notched his eighth stoppage as he stopped the very capable Donovan Dennis (12-5) in round three of their scheduled eight-round bout.

The win is very impressive for Shaw, as Dennis was a finalist in the highly-competitive Boxcino tournament, as well as pushing future world title-challenger Jarrell Miller in their ShoBox fight,

Shaw registered two knockdowns, with the 2nd resulting from a barrage of punches that had Dennis hit the bottom rope, and the fight was waved off at 2:08.

Middleweight Isaiah Steen of Cleveland, Ohio is now 12-0 with 10 knockouts with an explosive 6th round stoppage over veteran Chris Chatman (15-10-1).

Chatman had an impressive mark as he had defeated four undefeated opponents, and was able to hold world title challenger, Charles Hatley to a draw,

Steen scored two knockdowns, with the finish coming from a right hand at 31 seconds of round six.

WATCH STEEN’S KO

19 year-old junior welterweight Rolando Vargas of Milwaukee drilled Tamarcus Smith (2-2) at 2:41 in the 1st round of their four-round bout. Vargas is now 2-0 with two knockouts.

Vargas landed a huge combination that sent Smith down and out for approximately six-minutes

WATCH VARGAS KO

Shaw and Steen are promoted by DiBella Entertainment.