MCCASKILL VS PRICE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE – QUOTES

CARDIFF, WALES (May 9, 2024) – Big time boxing returns to Wales as BOXXER presents a huge night of action in Cardiff on Saturday, May 11th with Lauren Price MBE challenging Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill.

McCaskill is a two-weight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

The two fighters exchanged words for the final time at today’s press conference ahead of their hotly anticipated world title clash on Saturday night.

Lauren Price MBE said:  “I’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of support I’ve received; it’s blown me out the park. I can’t thank the Welsh fans enough, there’s going to be some noise in there on Saturday night and I can’t wait to put on a show. I’m going to take my time on the ring walk, enjoy myself, soak it all in but when I get in that ring it’s game on and time for business.”

Jessica McCaskill said: “The Welsh fans aren’t supporting me, but they’ve welcomed me with open arms and just want to see a great fight on Saturday night like everybody else. I want to build fans everywhere I go. The excitement comes from stepping into my opponent’s back yard. I want to hear the crowd go wild and that will get me through the fight.”

BOXXER founder and CEO Ben Shalom:  “McCaskill is a pioneer of women’s boxing. This is her 11th world title fight. It’s a special moment for her as well. Why now for Lauren? She’s broken records since she started her sporting career, she’s done it in her boxing career. It’s her 7th fight. Yes, it’s early, and she’s taking on McCaskill who’s never lost in this weight division. This is a huge test for Lauren Price in Cardiff. To have this much support and an occasion like this was an opportunity we couldn’t turn down. Breaking records, forging legacy. That’s what this fight is all about. There are no full gone conclusions. It really could go either way.”

A stacked undercard features rising Welsh star Rhys Edwards versus former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward for the WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title, unbeaten English Champion Mark Jeffers defending his Commonwealth Silver Super Middleweight Title against undefeated Scottish Champion Darren Johnstone, plus the return of former World Heavyweight Title challenger Hughie Fury against Germany’s Patrick Korte.

Southampton Light Heavyweight Lewis Edmondson is also set for action against Portsmouth’s Joel McIntyre in a British South Coast derby. 26-year-old Newport southpaw Kyran Jones takes on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell, Cardiff Super Featherweight Kane Shepherd faces Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis, and Swansea giant Moses Jolly continues his quest to become Wales’ first ever heavyweight world champion against Amine Boucetta.

Price’s WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Title fight against McCaskill will be free and available to all viewers in Wales following a rights deal between BOXXER, Sky Sports and BBC Wales.

All the action is available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland with prelims on the Sky Sports Boxing YouTube channel and the main card on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event. US fight fans can watch live and on demand on Peacock.

Final remaining tickets are available from BOXXER.com




ENGLISH AND SCOTTISH SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONS CLASH IN CARDIFF

CARDIFF, WALES (May 3, 2024) – English Champion Mark Jeffers will defend his Commonwealth Silver Super Middleweight Title against Scottish Champion Darren Johnstone on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

The undefeated super middleweights clash as part of a huge night of boxing in Cardiff topped by Lauren Price MBE challenging Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles.

Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs), who is currently ranked #3 with the EBU, is proving to be a dangerman in the 168lbs division. The 26-year-old from Chorley stepped in at short notice to defeat current British and Commonwealth Champion Zak Chelli to claim the English and Commonwealth Silver Titles in July 2023.

Jeffers followed this up with a convincing points win over Germaine Browne at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool in January to retain his belts.

Johnstone captured the Scottish Super Middleweight Title with a first round stoppage win over Ben McGivern. Johnstone sent his opponent to the canvas inside the first stanza before the fight was stopped at the end of the round due to a cut above McGivern’s left eye.

The newly crowned Scottish champion will now step up to face his English counterpart in a battle of Britain in the Welsh capital.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill and claim the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Titles.

Rhys Edwards faces former British Champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward for the WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title, Hughie Fury returns against Germany’s Patrick Korte, Kyran Jones takes on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell, Kane Shepherd meets Ishmael Ellis and Swansea heavyweight hope Moses Jolly continues his quest to become Wales’ first heavyweight world champion.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com




FURY FACES KORTE ON MCCASKILL VS PRICE CARD IN CARDIFF

CARDIFF, WALES (May 2, 2024) – Former World Title challenger Hughie Fury faces Patrick Korte in a heavyweight clash on the undercard of Lauren Price MBE’s WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Title fight with Jessica McCaskill on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

Fury (27-3, 15 KOs) is looking to get his promising career back on track following an extended period out the ring. The 29-year-old returned to action last month, scoring a points win over Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko. Having previously mixed at world level, Fury will be aiming to get back into title contention with a victory over Germany’s ‘Big Patrick’ Korte (21-3-1, 18 KOs) in the Welsh capital.

Fans can look forward to another exciting contest in Cardiff with undefeated light heavyweight Lewis Edmondson set for action against British rival Joel McIntyre.

Edmondson (8-0, 3 KOs) claimed a points win over Dmytro Fedas last time out at the Bournemouth International Centre in December and will look to extend his unbeaten run as he targets a fight with fast rising star Ben Whittaker.

McIntrye (20-8, 5 KOs) a former two-time English champion who has fought many of the top names in the domestic scene will provide an acid test for Edmondson and prove whether ‘The Saint’ is ready to step up in levels.

They join a stacked undercard that also features undefeated featherweight Rhys Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs) facing former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward (34-1-1, 5 KOs) for the WBA Intercontinental Title.

Newport super middleweight Kyran Jones (9-0, 1 KO) taking on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell (3-0) and Cardiff super featherweight Kane Shepherd (4-0, 1 KO) versus Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis (14-8).

Plus undefeated English Super Middleweight Champion Mark Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs) and Swansea heavyweight hope Moses Jolly (8-0, 6 KOs), who continues his quest to become Wales’ first world heavyweight champion.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill and capture the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Titles.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com




WELSH RISING STARS SET TO SHINE ON MCCASKILL VS PRICE UNDERCARD

CARDIFF, WALES (April 17, 2024) – Lauren Price MBE tops a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital as she challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th,  live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales, and Peacock in the USA.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the opportunity to write her name in the record books again by becoming Wales’ first female world champion when she meets McCaskill at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena.

Price’s homecoming will also provide a platform for the future stars of Welsh boxing, giving some of the country’s hottest home-grown prospects the chance to showcase their skills. 

Undefeated featherweight Rhys Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs) will look to extend his unbeaten run and move into title contention as he steps up in class to face former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward (34-1-1, 5 KOs).

Edwards, from Penygraig, returns to action following a points victory over Brad Foster in Wolverhampton in November and will be boxing in Wales for the first time since a shut-out six-round win over Ruslan Berchuk on the Chris Eubank Jr vs Liam Williams undercard in Cardiff in February 2022.

Englishman Ward, from County Durham, has had twice as many paid bouts as his Welsh rival. Having suffered his first career defeat in a WBA World Featherweight Title eliminator against Otabek Kholmatibv in 2023, the 29-year-old got back to winning ways with a points victory over Amani Bariki last month.

Edwards is one of three boxers from Gary Lockett’s gym fighting on Price’s undercard with Newport super middleweight Kyran Jones (9-0, 1 KO) and Cardiff super featherweight Kane Shepherd (4-0, 1 KO) also set for action.

26-year-old southpaw Jones will take on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell (3-0), also from Newport, and Shepherd, a former ten-time ABA Welsh Champion, will test his skills against Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis (14-8).

Joining Lockett’s unbeaten trio is Swansea giant Moses Jolly (8-0, 6 KOs), who will look to announce himself on the big stage as he continues his quest to become Wales’ first ever heavyweight world champion.

Plus, undefeated English Super Middleweight Champion Mark Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs), who is proving to be a dangerman in the 168lbs division having claimed the English title versus current British champion Zak Chelli last July before defending the belt with a convincing points win over Germaine Browne in January.

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff. All the action is available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast and Integritas Property Group.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com




LAUREN PRICE MBE’S WORLD TITLE FIGHT FREE AND AVAILABLE TO ALL IN WALES FOLLOWING RIGHTS DEAL BETWEEN BOXXER, SKY SPORTS AND BBC WALES

CARDIFF, UK (April 4, 2024) – Lauren Price MBE’s World Welterweight Title fight against Jessica McCaskill will be free and available to all viewers in Wales following a rights deal between BOXXER, Sky Sports and BBC Wales.

Price challenges American champion McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff as part of a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital.

Viewers in Wales will now be able to watch all the action live and free-to-air on BBC Wales as part of a simulcast agreement with Sky Sports, the UK’s biggest live sport platform, who will be broadcasting throughout the UK and Ireland.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill.

McCaskill is a two-weight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

Lauren Price MBE said: “I think it’s incredible to have the support and backing of BBC Wales and Sky Sports together. When I boxed over in Tokyo for the Olympic Games, the pinnacle of my amateur career, it was covered by the BBC, and now at the pinnacle of my professional career, they’ll be covering my world title fight too, which is brilliant. I’d like to just say a huge thank you to BOXXER, Sky Sports and BBC Wales for coming together and backing me during my journey to become world champion.”

Carolyn Hitt, BBC Wales’ Head of Sport, said: “Wales has a long and proud boxing history and Lauren is already an icon, achieving every accolade – including Olympic gold – as an amateur. Now as a professional, she can hopefully make history again in Cardiff in May. We are extremely proud to be able to bring viewers in Wales the opportunity to witness this huge fight free-to-air, in partnership with BOXXER and Sky Sports.”

Ben Shalom, Founder and CEO of BOXXER, said: “We’re delighted that together with Sky Sports we are able to partner with BBC Wales for this historic event. Lauren Price is already a star in the sport and one of the most talented and decorated athletes Wales has ever produced. At BOXXER we are committed to growing boxing to new audiences and making it more accessible. We’re excited that everyone in Wales will now have the opportunity to watch Lauren’s crowning moment.”

Rob Selmes, Sky Sports Director of Rights, said: “Sky Sports are committed to bringing the biggest sporting moments to sports fans and understand the connection that people feel towards their homegrown talent. That’s why we’re pleased to join forces with BOXXER and BBC Wales to make sure that people in Wales can get behind Lauren Price MBE in her landmark World Title fight against Jessica McCaskill and witness potential history in the making for their local girl.”

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff. All the action is available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, and live and free-to-air on BBC Wales in Wales.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast and Integritas Property Group.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com




JESSICA McCASKILL v LAUREN PRICE Tickets now on sale

It’s finally time to secure your tickets to see Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff.

Over 50% of all tickets were sold in pre-sale yesterday proving this is certainly an eagerly anticipated fight night and homecoming for Wales’s own Lauren Price.

Tickets are available via the link below from 10am today (Thurs 21st March) and you can join the queue now to be amongst the first in line.
CLICK HERE TO SECURE TICKETS
Ticket prices: £200 / £125 / £80 / £60 / £40

McCaskill vs Price will top an action-packed fight card in Cardiff with undercard fights to be announced very soon.

We’re expecting tickets for this event to be in high demand so we recommend you register and buy your tickets as soon as they become available.




LAUREN PRICE MBE CHALLENGES JESSICA MCCASKILL FOR WELTERWEIGHT WORLD TITLES ON MAY 11TH IN CARDIFF

Cardiff, UK (March 13, 2024) – Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE will challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Following a glittering amateur career that saw her claim Commonwealth, European and World glory on route to making history as the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, Price (6-0, 1 KO) can write her name in the record books again by becoming Wales’ first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face by far her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill (12-3-1, 5 KOs).

McCaskill versus Price will top a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital as Price looks to secure world honours in front of her home fans. Price is no stranger to representing her country on the world stage having earned 52 caps for the Welsh national football team before deciding to focus her talents on boxing.

McCaskill, from Chicago, Illinois, is a two-weight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

Toppling Braekhus with back-to-back wins in 2021 and 2022, McCaskill became undisputed champion at 147 lbs, a weight class where she remains undefeated.

McCaskill has previously challenged Katie Taylor for the WBA World Lightweight Title in 2017 and Chantelle Cameron for the Undisputed Super Lightweight World Titles in 2022. Most recently, McCaskill fought to a draw with Britain’s Sandy Ryan in a fiercely contested welterweight unification clash.

Lauren Price MBE said: “I’m over the moon for this fight to finally be getting announced. I know Ben Shalom and my team have been working very hard behind the scenes to make this happen so I just want to say a big thank you to them.

“The fact it’s in Cardiff is amazing. I’ve not boxed there since I first started out which was a good few years back now. I can’t wait to put on a show in front of my friends, family and Welsh supporters who have been great in supporting me throughout my career. It’ll be an incredible night for sure, to beat the reigning champion in Wales and keep the world titles here will be some feeling!

“Jessica McCaskill is the current champion. She’s game, experienced and strong but I’ll be 100% ready for whatever she brings on the night. I believe in my ability. I back myself and like I said earlier, I can’t wait to bring those world titles back home to Wales, and hopefully this will line me up to bring more massive nights back to Wales in the near future.”

Jessica McCaskill said: “I don’t know much about Price but when it comes to fighters from the UK the expectation is usually lots of back pedalling and holding. I don’t know if this will be the case but coming to Wales means Price is hopefully going to want to put on a good show. That’s exactly what I want because I plan on doing the same. I’m here to steal all of her fans. I’m going to show her what it takes to be a champion and the belts will be coming back to America with me.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “Lauren Price is one of the most talented and decorated athletes that Wales has ever produced. With that, as a promoter, comes great pressure to deliver nights that can forge a legacy. I’m delighted to deliver a huge world title opportunity for Lauren against a very dangerous and experienced champion in Jessica McCaskill. This is a chance for Lauren to establish herself as one of boxing’s future pound-for-pound stars. I believe we are looking at an icon of the sport. She is already a gold medallist, already an MBE, and this is a real milestone and a monumental moment in her career. This is something she has worked towards since she first put on a pair of gloves. I expect a hero’s welcome for her in Cardiff and hopefully a historic performance and the first of many memorable nights in Wales.”

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Championships on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast and Integritas Property Group.

Sign up for exclusive access to pre-sale tickets at BOXXER.com.




Richardson Hitchins Decisions Jose Zepeda

Richardson Hitchins remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jose Zepeda in a junior welterweight bout at The Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

Hitchins, 139.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 120-109 twice and 119-109 and is now 17-0. Zepeda, 140 lbs of La Puenta, CA is 37-4.

In round seven, Zepeda was cut on his forehead from a headbutt.

Conor Benn came back after an 17-month layoff to win a 10-round unanimous decision over Rodolfo Orozco in a junior middleweight bout.

Benn was suspended for failing an anti-doping test before his bout with Chris Eubank Jr. looked aggresiver throughout the contest.

In round two, Orozxo was bleeding under his right eye.

Benn, 153.6 lbs of Ilford, ENG won by scores of 99-91 twice and 96-94 and is now 22-0. Orozco, 154.4 lbs of Sinaloa, MEX is 32-4-3.

“We didn’t want a walk in the park,” said Benn. “I needed the rounds after 18 months out, he’s a true Mexican, my first Mexican I’ve fought, and we knew he was durable. Credit to him, he’s never been stopped before and he’s one tough man and I hope he progresses.
 
“They are stronger and take shots more, I don’t think there was ring rust, I was going through the gears after going through hell.
 
“Britain is my home and it’s only right I fight back there, sooner rather than later.”

WBA/WBC Welterweight champion Jessica McCaskill and WBO champion fought to a split draw in their unification bout.

Scores were 97-93 for McCaskill, 96-94 for Ryan and 95-95.

McCaskill, 136.4 bs of Chicago is 12-3-1. Ryan, 146.4 lbs of Darby, ENG is 6-1-1.

Austin Williams won a 10-round unanimous decision over veteran Steve Rolls in a middleweight. bout.

Williams, 160 lbs Houston won by scores of 97-93 on all cards and is now 15-0. Rolls, 159.2 lbs of Tornoto is 22-3.

Orestes Velazquez stopped Mohamed Soumaoro in round seven of their scheduled 10-round super lightweight fight.

In round eight, Velazquez landed a big and relentless flurry of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 2:19.

Velazquez, 140 lbs of Miami, FL is now 8-0 with seven knockouts. Soumaoro, 1396 lbs of Montreal is 13-2.

Khalil Coe remained undefeated as he stopped Kenmon Evans in round two of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

At the beginning of round two, Coe dropped Evans with a right hook. Coe ended things when he landed a right to the side of the head and the bout was stopped as he fell to the ground at 1:21.

Coe, 19.6 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 7-0-1 with five knockouts. Evans, 179.8 lbs of New Smyrna Beach, FL is 10-2-1.

Jeovanny Estela stopped Gerardo Carabello in the opening round of their eight-rround super welterweight clash.

Estela dropped Carabello with a vicious uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:10,

Estela, 153.5 lbs of Orlando, FL is 13-0 with four knockouts. Carabello, 153,4 lbs of Trujillo Alto, PR is 6-2-1.

Jasmine Artiga remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Josefina Vega in a featherweight bout.

At the end of round three, Artiga dropped Vega with a long left.

Artiga, 116 lbs of Tampa, FL won by scores of 80-71 on all cards and is now 11-0-1. Vega, 114 lbs of Quito, ECU is 9-7.




VIDEO: Richardson Hitchins vs Zepeda, Conor Benn, McCaskill vs Ryan Weigh In




RYAN TELLS MCCASKILL: KEEP THOSE BELTS WARM FOR ME

Sandy Ryan has told Jessica McCaskill to ‘keep the belts warm’ as they meet in a Welterweight unification clash on Saturday night (September 23) at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COMRyan (6-1 2 KOs) landed the vacant WBO title in her last fight, seeing off Canadian Marie Pier Houle in Cardiff in April, and in her first defense, she travels to Florida to face WBA, WBC, IBO and Ring Magazine champion McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs), the Chicagoan who is fighting in her tenth consecutive World title bout.

Ryan, who turned 30 on Saturday, believes she’s heading down the path of her own lengthy run of World title action starting in Orlando and leading to an undisputed fight next, then showdowns with the other big-name champions in the sport.

“This is just massive for me,” said Ryan. “Jessica is up there, she is on the pound-for-pound list and that’s where I want to be, so I need to beat girls like her to be where she is. I really respect Jessica as a fighter, and you’ll see that this week with the shape that I am in and the mentality that I have. I remember watching her against Katie and she’s done so well since then, she’s always been in the big fights, and she’s won most of them. 

“She’s tough, she’s going to come with everything, she’s never been stopped and she knows the pro game because she’s been in it a long time so she knows all the tricks, but I feel that with my ability I am at another level to her. 

“I’m not going off the Chantelle Cameron fight as I think she had a bad night; I’ve had a bad night and I don’t think anyone would look at me with that performance. I can see that there’s some bad habits from that fight, but she will be training her heart out for this fight because if she loses, it’s her last fight, she’ll have nothing, no belts. That’s why I am making sure I am fully prepared. She’s going to see isn’t she. I don’t need to say much, we’ll see on Saturday night, just be ready, keep the belts warm for me.

“It’s all about big fights now for me. This is massive but the level I am at, if I win this fight, I want to be undisputed and there’s nothing bigger, so this is the level I am now. You never know in boxing what is going to happen but now I am at this level, I feel I am here to stay.

“Every pro wants to hold all the belts, that’s the aim, it’s legacy. Welterweight is where I am at, I’ve done 140lbs as well, there are some massive fights that can be made with all the best girls, let me get all the belts at 147 and then let’s all make big fights.

“I think I can be a star in the game. I’m quite low-key, but I know what I can achieve, and I can be a massive name in the women’s pro scene.”

Ryan’s clash with McCaskill is part of a stacked card in Orlando, topped by the biggest test of Richardson Hitchin’s (16-0 7 KOs) career to date against Jose Zepeda (36-3 27 KOs), with the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American Super-Lightweight titles on the line.

Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (14-0 10 KOs) press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls (22-2 12 KOs) and will Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to kick off the main card against Mohamed Soumaoro (13-1 6 KOs).

Khalil Coe (6-0-1 4 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks at Light-Heavyweight, and ‘Big Steppa’ headlines the Before The Bell action and will be looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans (10-1-1 3 KOs). Super-Welterweight Jeovanny Estella (12-0 3 KOs) and Super-Flyweight Jasmine Artega (10-0-1 5 KOs) tasting action over eight rounds while Bantamweight Roberto Rivera Gomez (3-0 2 KOs) kicks the whole night off over four rounds, with all three fighters to be matched imminently.




MATCHROOM ANNOUNCE FOUR USA AND MEXICO DATES LIVE WORLDWIDE ON DAZN

Matchroom tonight announce four events in the USA and Mexico as part of a stacked second half of 2023 live worldwide on DAZN.

Headline amongst those is the confirmation of the date and venue for the hotly-anticipated Flyweight unification clash between Jesse Rodriguez and Sunny Edwards, which lands at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday December 16.

The unbeaten pair meet in a mouth-watering battle to determine the top dog in the division, with WBO ruler Rodriguez and IBF king Edwards defending their titles for the first and fourth times respectively and both appearing in their first unification bouts. 

Rodriguez (18-0 11 KOs) will return to the state that he landed his first World title back in February 2022 when he defeated Carlos Cuadras to land the WBC Super-Flyweight strap. The San Antonio star defended that title twice with wins over Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Israel Gonzalez before becoming a two-weight champion on hometurf in April by seeing off Christian Hernandez, and the 23 year old is excited to be meeting Edwards in the winter.

“I want to thank Matchroom, Teiken and my whole team for making this fight happen,” said Rodriguez. “This fight will allow me to showcase my skills and prove to everyone that I am not only the best Flyweight in the world but one of the best fighters in the world period. 

“I am excited to be back in Arizona where I first became a World champion, and I will be 100 per cent ready to put on a show on December 16 and become unified World champion.”

Edwards (20-0 4 KOs) finally gets the blockbuster showdown that he’s been craving after becoming the IBF champion in April 2021 with a trademark classy win over Moruti Mthalane in London. A pair of successful defenses in Dubai followed in December against Jayson Mama and in March over Muhammad Waseem before victory in defense number three followed in his adaopted Sheffield hometown over Felix Alvarado. 

The 27 year old had a successful debut under the Matchroom banner in June when he saw off spirited Chilean challenger Andres Campos in London, and Edwards is looking forward to proving he is the best in the division on his first fight in America.

“I’m looking forward to being involved in one of the biggest Flyweight World title fights in boxing history,” said Edwards. “It’s the real #1 versus the real #2. I would like to thank Eddie Hearn, Frank Smith, Matchroom Boxing and my team for getting me in this position, and I’d also like to thank Bam and his team for accepting the fight, and I am really looking forward to becoming one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world on December 16 in Arizona.”

One month before that, one of the hottest young fighters in the sport will headline at home for the first time in his blossoming career as Diego Pacheco takes on Marcelo Coceres for the WBO International and USWBC Super-Middleweight titles at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles on November 18.

Pacheco (19-0 16 KOs) was at his scintillating best in his last outing in July where he blitzed the dangerous Manuel Gallegos inside four rounds in Monterrey, Mexico – ending matters with a vicious attack after flooring Gallegos in the fourth with a trademark bodyshot and became the first man to stop the Mexican later in the round.

That was a second headline turn for the rangy South LA man having previously pummeled Jack Cullen into submission again in four rounds in Liverpool, England in April, and now the 23 year old earns a shorter trip to top the bill, doing so in the shadow of the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood where he grew up.

“I cannot wait to be headlining at home November 18 at the YouTube Theater,” said Pacheco. “I am looking forward to making a statement and delivering another great performance for all my hometown fans.”

Standing in Pacheco’s way of another impressive showing at Super-Middleweight is former World title challenger Coceres (32-5-1 18 KOs). The Argentine returns to the city of his biggest night, where he met WBO ruler Billy Joe Saunders for the World title in November 2019, and the 32 year old is set to provide Pacheco with the biggest test of his career to date.

“November 18, in his backyard, this is what warriors do,” said Coceres. “I have a lot of respect for Pacheco, he’s a good fighter, but he’s still young and he has time. This is my time now.
I’ve been here before. I’ve been to war. Let’s see how the young boy does when his back is against the wall. 

“I’m bringing everything into this fight. I can’t afford another loss at this point in my career. This is make or break and I’m leaving everything I have in the ring come November 18.”

Back-to-back weekends in September provide plenty of excitement in Tijuana and Orlando.

Angel Fierro continues to hammer on the door for a World title shot, and he’ll look to add more weight to those claims when he defends his WBO NABO Lightweight title against Brayan Zammaripa on Friday September 15 at the Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutierrez Moreno in Tijuana, Mexico. 

Fierro (21-1-2 17 KOs) is sitting pretty at #4 with the WBO, and the 25 year old gets a hometown outing as he looks to build on his growing reputation for exciting performances.

‘Tashiro’ was at his explosive best in his last outing with multiple knockdowns leading to a seventh round stoppage win over Eduardo Estela in Culiacan – a fifth KO in his last six fights – and a run he’ll be looking to improve upon against Zammaripa (13-1 4 KOs), the Baja California man who has recorded ten wins on the bounce since his sole defeat in 2016.

“I am very happy to return to my home Tijuana,” said Fierro. “But I am even more excited because I am very close to a World Title fight. I’m very focused on giving a great show to my people.”

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for, for a long time,” said Zammaripa. “I respect Tashiro, but this is my moment. I’m coming to his neighborhood, but this is my territory. Civil War is coming September 15 and I’m leaving with Tashiro’s belt. Viva Mexico.

Erika Cruz (15-2 3 KOs) will return to action on the card following her thrilling battle with Amanda Serrano for the undisputed Featherweight crown in New York in February, and ‘Dinamita’ will look to get back on the path to regaining her World champion status over ten rounds against Melissa Oddessa Parker (6-1 2 KOs)

“I am 100 per cent prepared,” said Cruz. “That night the national guard and I will be celebrating our Independence Day with one more victory for the Dinamita!”

The following weekend, a stacked bill takes Matchroom back to Florida and sees World-rated Super-Lightweight Richardson Hitchins takes on Jose Zepeda for the WBC Silver and IBF North American Super-Lightweight titles at the Caribe Royale in Orlando on Saturday September 23.

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) shone in his last outing in his home city, putting New Jersey’s John Bauza on the canvas during a shut-out win at Madison Square Garden, and the Brooklyn ace now lurks with intent at #6 with the WBO and #7 with the IBF in the 140lb rankings. 

Zepeda (36-3 27 KOs) represents a significant barrier to Hitchins’ plans to move into World title contention though, and the Californian, who has challenged for World titles at both 135 and 140lbs, will be eyeing Hitchins’ lofty standings to reignite his own World championship plans.

“I’m excited to finally be back in action and prove I’m the top dog of the 140lb division,” said Hitchins. “I promise to put on a master class performance on Zepada. This was the guy they were calling one of the top guys in the division, so after this performance this will show I’m ready for anyone.

“We tried waiting for Montana Love, but he found his way out of the fight like I expected his bitch ass would, so it’s on to bigger and better!”

“This is it for me, my last opportunity and a big one,” said Zepeda. “I need to win to stay on track and soon fight for another World title, it’s now or never. I want to thank Matchroom very much for this opportunity, my brother Renee and my manager Rick Mirigian for getting this multi-fight deal worked out. I’ll be ready come fight night.”

The Welterweight division will move one step closer to crowning an undisputed champion on the night as Jessica McCaskill and Sandy Ryan meet for three of the belts. 

WBA and WBC champion McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) is no stranger to undisputed status, having ripped all the hardware at 147 from long-reigning ruler Cecilia Braekhus in August 2020 and then holding onto the belts in a rematch the following March. The Chicagoan defended the belts twice more against Kandi Wyatt and Alma Ibarra before the lure of becoming undisputed champion at a second weight saw her drop down to 140lbs to take on Chantelle Cameron in Abu Dhabi in November, with the Briton coming out on top on that occasion.

WBO belt holder Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) will look to make it back-to-back losses to Brits for McCaskill, as the Derby talent puts the title she won in her last outing against Marie Pier Houle in Cardiff, Wales in April. Ryan, who holds wins over former World champions Anahi Sanchez and Erica Farias, steps straight into the biggest fight in the division in her first defense and can add two belts to take her collection up to three in just her eighth pro fight.

“Glad to finally get back in the ring, it’s been too long,” said McCaskill. “I’m not going to lie it’s been a bit frustrating but now we are finally here. You know what they say, be careful what you wish for. See you soon Sandy.”

“This fight is everything to me the level of it the best vs. the best in the Welterweight division,” said Ryan. “I respect Jessica massively as a fighter and what she has done in the sport but it’s definitely time for a new era and I believe I am that. 

“It’s my biggest fight and it’s going to be in America, a place I’ve wanted to fight in since I turned pro. It’s been a dream of mine so I can’t wait to make my America debut and fight Jessica. AND THE NEW!”

A third fight for the bill in Orlando sees Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls.

Williams (14-0 10 KOs) is back in the States having taken out River Wilson-Bent in eight rounds in London in April – his third fight in England – and the Middleweight contender is right on the cusp of landing a World title shot sitting at #2 with the WBA, #10 with the IBF and #11 with the WBC.

Rolls (22-2 12 KOs) will test those ambitions to the fullest though, having shared the ring with Gennadiy Golovkin and Edgar Berlanga in his 24-fight career, and the Canadian will look to get back into contention himself with the WBA International and IBF North American titles on the line. 

“I’ve learned the significance of rest and patience since my April victory,” said Williams. “This period of down time has allowed my mind and body the proper space to process all of the many lessons I’ve received in my previous 6 bouts. Tremendous advancement has occurred in all areas of my life. September 23 will be a display of brilliance, dedication, and laser focus. Don’t miss it!

“I’m looking forward to fighting on September 23,” said Rolls. “I know that Ammo is coming to fight, but I’m going to do whatever is necessary to get my hand raised at the end of the night. He has never fought anyone as a pro with my experience, and I think that experience will play a big role in me winning this fight.”

Information on ticket on-sale dates and further undercard news for these events will be released soon.

These events are added to a stacked offering from Matchroom on DAZN, with more to come including:

Leigh Wood vs. Josh Warrington, Saturday October 7, Sheffield

Jack Catterall vs. Jorge Linares, Saturday October 21, Manchester

Chantelle Cameron vs. Katie Taylor II, Saturday November 25, Dublin




EARLY RSULTS FROM DUBAI (BIVOL – RAMIREZ)

Chantelle Cameron won the undisputed Super Lightweight Title with a 10 round unanimous decision over Jessica McCaskill.

Cameron of Northampton, ENG won by scores of 97-93 and 96-94 twice and is now 17-0. McCaskill of Chicago is 12-3.

Shavkhatdzhon Rakhimov won the vacant IBF Super Featherweight title with a ninth round stoppage over Zelfa Barrett.

In round three, Barrett landed a big right hand that drove Rakhimov into the ropes for a knockdown.

In round nine, Rakhimov started walking down and landing hard punches on Barrett until he put Barrett on the deck. Barrett clearly had a issue with his leg, and Rakhimov just started unloading on his prey. The onslaught continued until another flurry sent Barrett to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at

Rakhimov of Boktar, TAJ is 17-0-1 with 14 knockouts. Barrett of Manchester, ENG is 26-2.

Galal Yafai eked out a 10-round split decision over Gohan Rodriguez Garcia in a flyweight bout.

Yafai of Birmingham, ENG won by scores of 96-94, 96-95 and Garcia won a card 96-95.

Yafai is 3-0. Garcia of Gomez Palacio, MEX is 12-2-1.

John Lawrence Ordonio won a four-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Majid Al Naqbi in a super lightweight fight.

Ordonio of San Fernando City, PHL won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 and is now 8-4-1. Al Naqbi of Dubai, UAE is 7-1.

Former world champion Khalid Yafai survived an early knockdown to win a thin 10-round unanimous decision over Jerald Paclar in a bantamweight bout.

In round one, Paclar dropped Yafai with a short right to the jaw.

Yafai of Birmingham, ENG won by scores of 96-93 twice and 95-94 and is now 27-1. Paclar of Cebu City, PHL is 16-6-3.

Sultan Al Nuaimi remained undefeated by stopping Sohaib Haque in round seven of a scheduled eight-round bantamweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 2:26 for Al Nuaimi of Dubai who is now 9-0 with six knockouts. Haque of Calcutta, IND is 4-3.

Aqib Fiaz remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Diego Valtierra in a lightweight contest.

Fiaz of Oldham, ENG won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 10-0. Valtierra of Algortal, SPA is 6-6-2.

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Denis Bartos in a six-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Campbell put Bartos down with a double right hand to the body. Hatton ended things seconds later by landing a left to the body that put Bartos down for the 10-count at 1:44.

Hatton of Hyde, ENG is 9-0 with three knockouts. Bartos of Rakovnik, CZE is 9-6.

Fahad Al Bloushi won a six-round unanimous decision over Irakli Shariashvili in a lightweight fight.

Al Bloushi of Dubai, UAE won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 11-1. Shariashvili of Rustavi, GEO is 7-13-1.




VIDEO: Dmitry Bivol vs Zurdo Ramirez Weigh In (Cameron-McCaskill & Rakhimov-Barrett)




VIDEO: Dmitry Bivol vs Zurdo Ramirez Plus Undercard Press Conference (Cameron-McCaskill & Rakhimov-Barrett)




CAMERON CLASHES WITH MCCASKILL FOR UNDISPUTED SUPER-LIGHTWEIGHT CROWN IN ABU DHABI

Chantelle Cameron and Jessica McCaskill will clash for the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Title on the undercard of Dmitry Bivol vs. Gilberto Zurdo Ramirez at the at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Saturday November 5, live to subscribers worldwide on DAZN (excluding South Korea and MENA).

Northampton’s Cameron (16-0, 8 KOs) captured the famous green and gold WBC 140lbs World Title by widely outpointing Brazil’s Adriana dos Santos Arauja behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes back in October 2020.

‘Il Capo’ looked sensational as she stopped Puerto Rico’s Melissa Hernandez in five rounds during the first defence of her crown the following year in her US debut at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.

The 31-year-old added the IBF and inaugural Ring Magazine World Titles to her collection by decisioning Indiana’s Mary McGee in an all-action main event at The O2 in London in October 2021 before defending her titles with another unanimous decision points win over Victoria Noelia Bustos in May this year.

Undisputed Welterweight World Champion McCaskill (12-2, 5 KOs) drops down in weight to enhance her pound-for-pound credentials after dethroning long-reigning champion Cecilia Braekhus in Downtown Tulsa Streets back in August 2020.

A former WBC and WBA World Champion at Super-Lightweight, ‘CasKILLA’ returns to 140lbs for the first time since October 2019 following three successful defences of her IBF, IBO, WBA, WBC and WBO Welterweight World Titles.

“This fight means everything to me, for me it’s all or nothing,” said Cameron. “It’s a career-defining moment for me – this is what every boxer sets out to achieve when they turn professional. As soon as I became a World Champion, I said that the main goal was to become undisputed. To become undisputed would be my dream come true. It’s what I want to achieve in boxing.

“Jessica is a very dangerous fighter and obviously undisputed at 147lbs. She’s been there and she’s done it. She’s got that crown at 147lbs so it’s definitely going to be my toughest fight to date. I’m expecting her to come out all guns blazing. She’s going to stick in on my chest, but I’ve got a game plan A, game plan B and game plan C.

“I’ll make sure that I box how I want to box and not get caught up in a slugfest. As long as I stay switched on and do what I know I can do then this won’t be a messy fight. It’s going to be a good hard fight, but I know I’m a better all-round fighter.”

“I want to take on the biggest and best fights,” said McCaskill. “I want to dominate in multiple weight classes. It’s too easy to stay in one weight class and play it safe. Now I want to prove myself as the best Super-Lightweight on the planet.”

“This is a career-defining moment for Britain’s Chantelle Cameron – a chance to write her name into the history books and become the undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Chantelle hasn’t put a foot wrong so far in her career but she knows she faces her toughest test to date against Chicago’s brilliant undisputed Welterweight ruler Jessica McCaskill who returns to 140lbs for another shot at greatness. What a card we’re building for November 5 – watch it live around the world on DAZN.”

“Jessica McCaskill has proven she belongs in the Hall of Fame,” said Rick Ramos. “This victory will solidify that. I’m excited for this fight.”

An announcement on tickets will follow in due course. Sign up HERE for Bivol vs. Ramirez bulletins and ticket updates.




TICKETS ON SALE TOMORROW FOR RODRIGUEZ AND RUNGVISAI WORLD TITLE QUADRUPLE HEADER

Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez will defend his WBC World Super-Flyweight title against Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on Saturday June 25 at the Tech Port Center + Arena in San Antonio, live worldwide on DAZN and leading a stacked quadruple header of World title action.

Tickets starting at $35 (plus fees) go on sale at 10am CDT tomorrow (Friday May 13) – click here for more details
 Rodriguez (15-0 10 KOs) makes the first defense of the belt he won in stunning fashion in February, flooring former World ruler Carlos Cuadras en-route to becoming the youngest current World champion in just his 15th pro-outing. ‘Bam’ will get a hero’s welcome on his home turf when he steps through the ropes in San Antonio for the first time as king of the world and only the third time in his career, boxing on his doorstep in his third and fifth fights in June 2017 and March 2018 respectively. 

The 22 year old could hardly face a stiffer test when putting his belt on the line for the first time, coming up against former two-time Super-Fly kingpin Rungvisai (50-5-1 43 KOs). The Thai star was set to face Cuadras in a long-awaited rematch for the title in San Diego, only for Rungvisai to fall ill and be replaced at late notice by the new young champion. The 35 year old has a chance to get his hands on the coveted green and gold strap for a third time, having first held the belt in 2013 and then reclaiming it against Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez three years later.

“Fighting a guy like Rungvisai is going to bring me to a whole new level,” said Rodriguez. “He’s a great fighter but this is my time now. You have to take risks in this sport, that’s what special fighters do. They said it was a risk me challenging for a World title fight on short notice and now they say it’s a risk taking on a fighter like Rungvisai but this is what I want. These are the types of fights you need so you can be remembered by the fans long after your career is done.

“I’ve always said that me and my brother are going to bring the big fights back to San Antonio and this is just the start of it. We are so proud to be from this city and we get that love back from the people there so this will be a special night.”

“Jesse might be the youngest current World champion, but this is a fight where he can prove he already belongs with the very best in boxing,” said trainer Robert Garcia. “We have a lot of respect for Rungvisai, we know what he is capable of, and he is a great, great fighter but I also know what Jesse is capable. I have so much belief in him, and I know he is ready for this.”

“I am very excited for this opportunity to fight for the WBC World title,” said Rungvisai. “I will be at my best to win the WBC World title and become the first three times WBC World champion in the history of Thailand. Thank you so much to Matchroom, DAZN, and the WBC for this opportunity.”

Rodriguez and Rungvisai lead a stellar night of action with three more World title fights on the bill, with Julio Cesar Martinez and McWilliams Arroyo picking up where they left off from their curtailed firefight for Martinez’s WBC World Flyweight title, where both men hit the canvas in the opening round and Arroyo touched down again in the second, before the action in New Hampshire in November had to be halted after Arroyo suffered a nasty cut from an accidental headclash.

Arroyo (21-4 16 KOs) has been out of action since that night, while Martinez (18-2 14 KOs) bravely rolled the dice to take on modern great Chocolatito as the headline act on the night Rodriguez won his belt.

World title clash number three on the bumper card will see IBF and WBA World Super-Bantamweight champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev defend his titles against Ronny Rios. The pair were set to meet in New Hampshire in November, but COVID ruled Rios out and he was replaced by game late challenger Jose Velasquez. Akhmadaliev (10-0 7 KOs) retained his belts with a near-shutout on the cards, going the distance for just the third time in his 10th pro bout, and second as a World champion. Rios (33-3 16 KOs), the mandatory challenger for the WBA crown, goes for glory for the second time in his 36-fight career after challenging Rey Vargas for the WBC strap at 122lbs in August 2016.

The fourth bout on the card has the most belts on the line, as undisputed Welterweight ruler Jessica McCaskill makes the third defense of all her marbles at 147lbs. McCaskill (11-2 4 KOs) ripped the straps from long-standing ruler Cecilia Braekhus on the streets of Downtown Tulsa in August 2020 and saw off the Norwegian in a rematch for her first defense in March 2021. The Chicagoan recorded the fourth stoppage win of her career in the second defense of the belts in December, ending Kandi Wyatt’s challenge in the seventh, and will face the tough test of Alma Ibarra. Ibarra (10-1, 4 KOs) also then beat Wyatt in an eight-round decision in an eliminator for the WBA strap, dubbed the ‘Thrilla for Caskilla’, landing Ibarra the shot at McCaskill’s WBA, WBO, WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine World titles.

“Everyone is coming for the throne and it’s my job to protect it,” said McCaskill

“This is a good fight. This fight will confirm why Jessica is the queen of the Welterweight division,” added McCaskill’s trainer and manager Rick Ramos.

“I’ve won fights, I’ve lost fights, I’ve been in the big stage, I’ve fought for a world title, I’m a single mom, I’ve been kidnapped, there’s not one thing that she can bring to the fight that I haven’t seen and surpassed,” said Ibarra. “She’s just holding what’s mine, I’m here to take them!!”




Haney Decisions Diaz Jr.; Retains Lightweight Belt

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love Stops Diaz in 3

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

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

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

Mccaskill Stops Wyatt in 7; Retains Undisputed Titles

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

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

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

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

Hrgovic stops Ahmatovic in 3

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

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

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

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

Castro Stops Solis in 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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




MCCASKILL PENS MATCHROOM DEAL AND DEFENDS UNDISPUTED VS. BUSTOS IN VEGAS

Jessica McCaskill has signed a long-term promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn – and will defend her undisputed Welterweight title against Victoria Bustos at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday December 4, live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets starting at $58 (plus fees) go are on sale NOW!

McCaskill (10-2 3 KOs) successfully defended the Welterweight straps that she ripped from Cecilia Brækhus in a rematch with the Norwegian in March in Dallas, having handed Brækhus her first career defeat on the street in Tulsa, Oklahoma in August 2020.

‘CasKILLA’ became a two-weight ruler against Brækhus, having previously been unified at Super-Lightweight having beaten WBC champion Erica Farias in October 2018, adding the WBA strap in May 2019 against Anahi Sanchez and then successfully defending the belts in a rematch with Farias in October 2019.

The Chicago star now puts her 147lbs belts on the line against fellow two-weight champion Bustos, and it’s a second attempt for the Argentine to become a three-weight champion after she challenged Brækhus for the belts in November 2019.

“Matchroom gave me a shot on the big stage, and I want to finish my career them – I’m excited!” said McCaskill. “We have a tough test in front of us in Victoria, she’s a great fighter and she’s been in with everyone, but I am confident I will keep my belts and we’ll move on to more great fights in 2022.”

“I am happy we worked out a deal,” said trainer and manager Rick Ramos. “Eddie Hearn and Matchroom have been good to us. I want to continue doing business with them. I’m happy and I’m excited! Let’s work!”

“Jessica has been a revelation since she travelled to the UK to face Katie Taylor in December 2017,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “She’s stepped up to face all-comers and with grit, determination and skill she’s a two-weight World champion – and she’s not done yet. There are plenty of big fights out there for Jess, starting in Las Vegas against Victoria who always lays it all on the line when she fights.”

McCaskill and Bustos lead an all-star cast in support of the mouth-watering headline attraction where Devin Haney defends his WBC World Lightweight title against Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz, Jr.

Croatian Heavyweight star Filip Hrgovi? (13-0 11 KOs) continues his quest for world domination as he defends his IBF International Title against Scott Alexander (16-4-2, 8 KOs).

Th 29-year-old from Zagreb returns to action following a one-sided beat down of Marko Radonjic on September 10 at the Worthersee Stadium in Klagenfurt, Austria. With an IBF Final Eliminator in the works for 2022, Hrgovi? knows he cannot afford any slip ups as he looks to extend his unbeaten run against the 32-year-old LA-native Alexander, who has previously gone the distance with Heavyweight contenders Carlos Negron and Travis Kaufmann.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and fighting on a big show in Las Vegas,” said Hrgovi?. “I’ve always wanted to box in Las Vegas where so many great Heavyweight champions have fought before. My opponent Scott Alexander is a tough fighter, but I have been training hard and will be ready to give the fans another great performance on December 11.”

“Watch out Las Vegas, ‘El Animal’ is coming,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We’re delighted to be working with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing to deliver Filip this fantastic opportunity to fight in Las Vegas as part of a huge event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. This is a chance for Filip to end the year on a high before shifting his focus to World Titles in 2022.”

One of Matchroom’s newest American stars fights for the first time with Eddie Hearn, as Montana Love takes on Carlos Diaz.

Love (16-0-1 8 KOs) penned his deal with Hearn after his impressive showing in Cleveland in August, where he forced former World champion Ivan Baranchyk after seven exciting rounds. The 26 year old is hunting down big fights in 2022, but Diaz (29-1 14 KOs) will be looking to spoil his Matchroom bow.

“I’m excited for my debut with Matchroom and DAZN December 4,” said Love. “Too Pretty taking his throne, this my shit now.”

There’s a welcome return to the ring for talented Middleweight Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams as he faces Quatavious Cash. Williams (8-0 6 KOs) last tasted action in March on the undercard, outpointing experienced campaigner Denis Douglin over eight rounds, and he’ll meet Cash (14-2 8 KOs) over that distance in his ninth pro-outing and first as a pro in Las Vegas.

Alexis Espino (9-0 6 KOs) is in action for the tenth time in the paid ranks as he takes on Rodolfo Gomez Jr. in the first eight round fight of his pro career, and Marc Castro (4-0 4 KOs) is out to make it five KOs from five pro fights, with his opponent to be named soon.

“This is a stacked card to close our year in the States,” said Hearn. “Filip is knocking loudly on the door of his fellow World class operators in the Heavyweight division, and next year we expect him to break that door down and be involved in – and win – some massive fights.

“Montana Love is a great character and a serious contender, and I am looking forward to him beginning his journey with us in Vegas. It’s great to have Ammo back doing what he does best and Alexis and Marc are two future superstars that continue to impress on their pro journeys.”




AUDIO: Kali Reis “Maybe Defending My title August 14th against Erica Farias; But I want Jessica McCaskill”






VIDEO: Kali Reis “I maybe Defending My title August 14th against Erica Farias; But I want Jessica McCaskill”




Undisputed Welterweight Champion Jessica McCaskill looking for Biggest names in Boxing

Chicago, IL (March 17, 2021) – Fresh off her second consecutive victory over future Hall of Famer, Cecilia Braekhus, undisputed welterweight champion, Jessica McCaskill is looking to fight the biggest names on the female circuit.

McCaskill of Chicago, easily outpointed the legendary Braekhus by scores of 100-89, 99-90 and 98-91 to win her fifth consecutive and raise her record to 10-2.

“I felt my aggression was really good, just keeping the pressure non-stop, and we are ready for what is next. She was running in, and crowded herself, and I figured if she was going to run in, I would have to get at least one or two shots off, and she kept doing it, so I kept doing it as well. I wanted to move and show some more angles, but she kept coming straight in, so she was right there,” said McCaskill.

“A fight with Katie Taylor might be the next thing on the agenda. If that is what it is, that would be great. If that does not work out, then there are a couple of other names out there. As for Claressa Shields, McCaskill thinks a fight with her can happen, “That could be a possibility if Claressa could come down to 147 pounds. At first, she said that she would not give up any weight, and now she is saying she would, so we are just going to have to see if they are going to take this seriously.”

Said McCaskill’s promoter, Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing, “Jessica proved yet again that she is one of the top fighters in the world. She has now dominated the fighter that has been the long-time pound for top boxer. We would love to fight anyone, and a fight with Katie Taylor would most certainly have a different outcome then their first fight. Fights with Taylor or Claressa would be historic fights as it would match two of the reigning undisputed champions against each other.”




AUDIO: Interview with Undisputed Welterweight Champion Jessica McCaskill






VIDEO: Interview with Undisputed Welterweight Champion Jessica McCaskill




Estrada Gets Even with Gonzalez; Takes Split Decision in another Classic

Juan Francisco had to wait over eight years, but he got even and won a 12-round split decision over Roman Gonzalez in another classic and win the WBA to add to his WBC Super Flyweight title at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

Like the first fight, the two never strayed more then a couple feet from each other and threw over a combined 2500 punches and landed over 700.

The judges favored the harder punches of Estrada to the the volume of Gonzalez.by scores of 117-111 and 115-113. Gonzalez took a card 115-113.

Estrada landed 314 of 1212 punches; Gonzalez 391 of 1317.

The fight warrants a trilogy and most likely there will be Estrada took cards

Estrada is now 42-3. Gonzalez is 50-3.

McCaskill Decisions Braekhus again; Retains Undisputed Welterweight Titles

Jessica McCaskill won her 2nd consecutive unanimous decision victory over Cecilia Braekhus to retain the undisputed welterweight titles.

In round seven, Braekhus was deducted a point for holding.

McCaskill landed 131 of 493 punches; Braekhus was 94 of 337.

McCaskill, 144.6 lbs of Chicago won by scores of 100-89, 99-90 and 98-91 and is now 10-2. Braekhus, 145 lbs or Bergen, NOR is 36-2.

Kyoguchi Retains Light-Fly Title after Vega Hurts Hand

Hiroto Kyoguchi retained the WBA Light Flyweight title with a 5th round stoppage over Axel Vega, when the challenger hurt his hand.

In the 5th round, Vega landed a shot to the head, then he turned around and jumped in obvious pain and the fight was stopped at 1:32

Kyoguchi, 107.8 lbs of Tokyo, JAP is 15-0 with 10 Knockouts. Vega, 107.2 lbs of Ensanada, MEX is 14-4-1.

Williams Decisions Douglin

Austin Williams remained undefeated by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Denis Douglin in a middleweight contest.

Williams landed 154 of 407 punches; Douglin was 81 of 379.

Williams 162 lbs of Houston, TX won by scores of 79-73 twice and 77-75 and is now 8-0. Douglin, 161.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 22-8.

Ford and Perez Battle to a draw

Raymond Ford and Aaron Perez battled to an eight-round draw of undefeated featherweights.

In round five, Ford was cut around the right eye.

Ford, 126.8 lbs of Camden, NJ won a card 77-75; Perez won a card 78=74 and a third card was even at 76-76.

Ford landed 129 of 488 punches; Perez was 97 of 385.

Ford is 8-0-1. Perez, 127.2 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 10-0-1.

In round five, Cissokho dropped Echevarria with a right hand. Cissokho scored another knockdown in round six.




MCCASKILL: I’M THROWING A RETIREMENT PARTY FOR BRÆKHUS

Jessica McCaskill is ready to send Cecilia Brækhus into retirement when she defends her undisputed World Welterweight titles at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX on Saturday night, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ESTRADA VS. CHOCOLATITO ARE ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER– TICKETS START AT $35 (PLUS FEES)

 McCaskill (9-2 3 KOs) ripped the titles from Brækhus (36-1 9 KOs) on the streets of Tulsa, Oklahoma in August, handing the Norwegian her first career loss and becoming a two-weight World champion in the process.

Brækhus hinted at retirement in her post-fight interview before committing to the rematch days later, and now the pair will tussle for the titles once more – but the Chicago belt holder believes that the hunger has gone from her foe and that this weekend, she’ll blow the candles out on her long career.

“This is the biggest retirement party DAZN has ever hosted – there’s probably going to be cake and juice afterwards,” said McCaskill. “This is going to be it. She’s the one that alluded to it after losing in Tulsa, she seemed super relieved after losing and I am just giving her what she wants.

“Once someone shows that weakness, shows they are not in it and talks retirement, that shows that they are mentally out of the game. We’ve never been given a whole lot; we’ve taken really big risks and they have gotten us to those higher places. I don’t want to take on anyone else’s legacy, I’m building my own and making history every step of the day and that’s what I want to continue to do.

“I think she’s been struggling since the loss; I don’t know what she is going to do on fight night because we’re coming. I have a b-side mentality, we’re grinding for this, we’re not getting any handouts for this, she’s going to have to fight tooth and nail for anything.”
Brækhus’ clash with McCaskill is part of aa huge night of action in Dallas, with a mouth-watering triple-header of World title action at the top of the bill.

Juan Francisco Estrada (41-3 28 KOs) and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (50-2 41 KOs) meet in a mouthwatering rematch that’s over eight years in the making, with the WBC, WBA and Ring Magazine World Super-Flyweight titles on the line and there’s a Matchroom debut on the card for Hiroto Kyoguchi (14-0 9 KOs) as he defends his WBA and Ring Magazine World Light-Flyweight titles against Axel Vega (14-3-1 8 KOs), and it’s a huge night for a clutch of rising talents on the bill.

Austin ‘Ammo’Williams (7-0 6 KOs) is looking to build on his own stellar 2020 performances where he won all three of his fights via stoppage in Miami, Mexico City and Dallas, and ‘Ammo’ will look to continue that streak in his first eight round bout against the experienced ‘Momma’s Boy’ Denis Douglin (22-7 14 KOs) who has shared the ring World champions George Groves, Anthony Dirrel, David Benavidez and Jermell Charlo.

Raymond Ford (8-0 4 KOs) has been in hot form, closing 2020 out with impressive stoppage wins in Florida and Texas and the 21 year old takes on unbeaten New Mexico talent Aaron ‘Angel Baby’ Perez (10-0 6 KOs) over eight rounds.

Souleymane Cissokho (11-0 7 KOs) is back in action for the first time since September 2019 and the unbeaten Frenchman tangles with Daniel Echeverria (21-10 18 KOs) over eight rounds.




BRÆKHUS: I WILL RECLAIM WHAT IS MINE

Cecilia Brækhus has vowed to ‘take back what’s mine’ when she rematches Jessica McCaskill for the undisputed World Welterweight titles at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX on Saturday night, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ESTRADA VS. CHOCOLATITO ARE ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER– TICKETS START AT $35 (PLUS FEES) 
Brækhus (36-1 9 KOs) suffered the first loss of her glittering career at the hands of McCaskill in Tulsa, OK in August, with the Chicagoan taking her titles and preventing her from breaking Joe Lewis’ record of consecutive World title defenses.

The Norwegian hinted at retirement in her immediate post-fight speech but within days of that loss, she activated the rematch clause, and now she is determined to settle the score and reclaim her property.

“I know I am a better fighter than Jessica in every possible way – I’m back for me,” said Brækhus. “I’ve done it all in boxing; first undisputed women’s champion, first Ring Magazine champion, sold out arenas, hit one million viewers, sold Pay-Per-Views – Saturday is just about taking the belts back because I am better.

“I’ve been in so many fights in my career and I knew that I did enough to win the first fight. I was a little bit naive. I didn’t consider that I was on her home turf, I won’t make that mistake again. Those belts are rightfully mine and I want to make a statement on Saturday, I’ll be completely different from the last fight, I’m in peak shape and I am happy.

“It’s fine to do some talking before the fight to promote it, but it’s not personal for me. She started talking about me and my team 24 hours after the last fight and I lost respect for her. You can’t be offended or take anything personally by someone you don’t respect. I feel calm and I am ready to get my belts back.”

Brækhus’ clash with McCaskill is part of aa huge night of action in Dallas, with a mouth-watering triple-header of World title action at the top of the bill.

Juan Francisco Estrada (41-3 28 KOs) and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (50-2 41 KOs) meet in a mouthwatering rematch that’s over eight years in the making, with the WBC, WBA and Ring Magazine World Super-Flyweight titles on the line and there’s a Matchroom debut on the card for Hiroto Kyoguchi (14-0 9 KOs) as he defends his WBA and Ring Magazine World Light-Flyweight titles against Axel Vega (14-3-1 8 KOs), and it’s a huge night for a clutch of rising talents on the bill.

Austin ‘Ammo’Williams (7-0 6 KOs) is looking to build on his own stellar 2020 performances where he won all three of his fights via stoppage in Miami, Mexico City and Dallas, and ‘Ammo’ will look to continue that streak in his first eight round bout against the experienced ‘Momma’s Boy’ Denis Douglin (22-7 14 KOs) who has shared the ring World champions George Groves, Anthony Dirrel, David Benavidez and Jermell Charlo.

Raymond Ford (8-0 4 KOs) has been in hot form, closing 2020 out with impressive stoppage wins in Florida and Texas and the 21 year old takes on unbeaten New Mexico talent Aaron ‘Angel Baby’ Perez (10-0 6 KOs) over eight rounds.

Souleymane Cissokho (11-0 7 KOs) is back in action for the first time since September 2019 and the unbeaten Frenchman tangles with Daniel Echeverria (21-10 18 KOs) over eight rounds.




VIDEO: Jessica McCaskill and Cecilia Brækhus clash in heated E-Press Conference




MCCASKILL-BRÆKHUS AND KYOGUCHI-VEGA ADDED TO ESTRADA-CHOCOLATITO CARD

Jessica McCaskill and Cecelia Brækhus will rematch for the undisputed World Welterweight title on a stacked card on March 13 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, live worldwide on DAZN, on a stacked card topped by the rematch between Juan Francisco Estrada and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez.
AN ANNOUNCEMENT ON TICKET ON-SALE DATES AND PRICES WILL BE MADE IN DUE COURSE
McCaskill (9-2 3 KOs) ripped the belts from the Norwegian star on the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma in August, snapping the long-standing unbeaten via majority decision and becoming a two-weight World champion in just her 11th pro fight in the process.

Brækhus (36-1 9 KOs) was denied a record-breaking night with McCaskill preventing her from recording her 25th consecutive successful World title defense, but she activated the rematch clause and will now go for revenge in the Lone Star state against the Chicagoan – but the champion was succinct in her belief that the belts will remain hers.

“I interrupted her career in the first fight,” said McCaskill. “I will end her career in the rematch.”

“I’m very focused on regaining all of my undisputed belts on March 13 in the rematch against Jessica,” said Brækhus. “It will be a very special night in Dallas for my supporters and for all of my worldwide fans who can watch the fight on the DAZN.”

On a huge triple-header of World title action, new Matchroom signing Hiroto Kyoguchi will defend his WBA and Ring Magazine World Light-Flyweight titles against Axel Vega.

Kyoguchi (14-0 9 KOs) makes his third defense of the WBA crown having stopped Heikke Budler for the strap in December 2018 to become a two-weight World ruler and then seeing off the challenges of Tanawat Nakoon and Tetsuya Hisada in June and October of 2019. In December, Matchroom announced a multi-fight promotional deal with the Japanese star, working with Clase Y Talento and manager Eddy Reynoso, and that relationship kicks off with his clash with Vega.

Kyoguchi fights for the first time in the States against the 20 year old Mexican (14-3-1 8 KOs) who gunning for a World title in his second attempt having challenged for the WBO Minimumweight strap in October 2019.

“I’m very happy to make my debut in the US under the guidance and management of Eddy Reynoso and with my promoter Eddie Hearn and Matchroom,” said Kyoguchi. “I want to thank them for the chance to prove that Japanese boxing is the best in the world. I am very grateful to them and we will put everything into becoming a star in the boxing world.”

“I’m very happy to receive this world title shot,” said Vega. “Kyoguchi is a great champion but I’m a hungry young contender and will conquer the championship on March 13. I want to thank my promoter Tuto Zabala Jr (All Star Boxing) for turning around so quickly, one week after signing and here is my chance, also to my manager Joe Gonzalez and to Eddie Hearn.”

“This is a huge night of boxing in Dallas,” said Hearn. “Cecilia and Jessica will put it all on the line in their rematch for the undisputed Welterweight title and Hirotu is a fighter that I am excited to see explode onto the big stage under the guidance of his manager Eddy Reynoso and Matchroom.

“With a brilliant main event in the rematch between Estrada and Chocolatito and plenty of young talents to be added to the card, this is an unmissable feast of fights for the fans in Dallas and on DAZN.”




MCCASKILL: I WANT TAYLOR TO WIN

Jessica McCaskill will be glued to DAZN tomorrow afternoon – hoping Katie Taylor defeats Delfine Persoon in Essex, UK to set up a blockbuster rematch.
 
McCaskill (9-2 3 KOs) added another chapter to her incredible story last weekend, ripping the titles from Cecilia Brækhus on the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma to shatter the Norwegian’s dreams of breaking Joe Louis’ longstanding record of successful World title defenses.
 
The Chicagoan now stands as a two-weight World ruler after just 11 pro fights, a remarkable feat but one that McCaskill is not ready to settle for.
 
The 35 year old first dipped her toe at World title level against Taylor in December 2017, pushing the Irish sensation all the way in the first defense of her World Lightweight title, a performance that boosted the confidence of McCaskill and led to her becoming World Super-Lightweight champion the following October and then unifying that division.
 
McCaskill was ringside in New York when Taylor and Persoon shared a thrilling battle for Taylor’s Lightweight straps in front of a sold-out Madison Square Garden, and while there will be no-one present as Fight Camp comes to a close in the grounds of Matchroom HQ, McCaskill will join millions on the edge of their seats at home as the pair do battle once again.
 
“I want Katie to win,” said McCaskill. “Katie is one of the biggest fights for me outside of a Cecilia rematch. We just have to go to the drawing board and figure it out. I hope to fight before the end of the year, but we have to see how Katie gets out of this fight. If she’s cut or anything like that it will take longer with suspensions but I’d love to fight before the end of the year. I am already back in the gym so I am staying ready.
 
“I almost knocked Katie out with a left hook. I felt that I was on the world class level and I proved it. If Katie had lost that fight to me, I don’t think Eddie would have kept pouring money into women’s boxing the way he has. He was so invested in Katie and he still is. So I am OK with the outcome. We have both led successful career paths from there and I think there should be a rematch.
 
“Something like Wembley Stadium where there are 100,000 fans, if that’s even possible in the times that we are in right now, then of course that is something we wouldn’t pass up. Our preference is to have the fight in the states since the first fight was in the U.K. This one should probably in the U.S.
 
“If it was in Chicago, it would be insanity. It would be massive. It’s funny because when you ask those questions, you just ask yourself, ‘Well where are the numbers for COVID-19 at?’ I’d love for it to be in Chicago but it doesn’t need to be in Chicago. So many people travel to see these fights – they travel to see Katie, they travel to see me. New York would be the hub for that. I was at her fight with Delfine in New York and I met so many fans from Canada, Australia, the U.K.” 
 
“Sometimes with boxing, they wait too long and the opportunity is gone for one reason or another. I don’t think waiting is the answer. If we don’t have fans, we don’t have fans. We will both experience with fighting without fans now. I don’t think it will be an issue. I love my fans and I’d love to have them there with me but then again, I think everyone has DAZN by now.
 
“I was at the first fight in New York. I think it was a really close fight, I thought it was going to be a draw. Katie had the belts, I didn’t think they’d give it to Delfine. I know Delfine is aggressive. Katie wanted to prove something and she came out with the win but that probably wasn’t the smartest plan because she has all the tools to beat her.”
 
McCaskill certainly had the tools to beat Brækhus last weekend, and reflecting on that fight, and on the anniversary of her pro debut five years ago tomorrow, McCaskill expects to face the former champion in a rematch later this year.
 
“I think Cecilia will come back for the rematch,” said McCaskill. “In two weeks or so, I think she will realize that you can’t take the fight out of a fighter and she will want to try to get these belts back. She had them for so long and I think that hunger will be there.
 
“I could tell at the stare down that her breathing was uneven, and she seemed off. She seemed nervous. I don’t know, maybe she had a tough weight cut or something, but I could read her energy was off in the bubble.
 
“It was an ugly fight, but I knew I had to give it my all and take it to her. I thought she was going to jab and move a lot more. We had practiced a lot more for both of those. But then in the first minute, she started to dive in, and I knew that was exactly what I wanted so I increased my output. When it comes to punch count, I just have a high work rate, so I am not just trying to outwork her, I am just trying to keep my own work rate high.
 
“This win broadens my fan base massively. It puts me at a level that people will learn my name. If I’m not a household name now, I hope to become one. I hope my trainer gets ‘Trainer of the Year.’ I came into work on Monday, I checked some emails. That’s just in me to have a certain work rate. At some point, we might sit down with Matchroom so I can step away from my day job to focus more on boxing and these world title fights. 
 
“Every fight from here on out is for a belt. We can’t move backward. You can’t demand top-notch when you are giving low quality. The females need to learn the business side of boxing and keep pushing for the biggest and best fights.”




AUDIO: Jessica McCaskill Dethrones Cecilia Braekhus; David Benavidez Loses Title on Scale; Conlan not Impressive!