Jose Zepeda hopes that a big win over rising Super-Lightweight star Dalton Smith will springboard him towards a fourth shot at world honours.

The three-time World Title challenger from California, USA looks to inflict a first professional loss on Sheffield’s Smith in an intriguing main event at the Utilita Arena this Saturday March 23 – live worldwide on DAZN. 

Zepeda (37-4, 28 KOs) has twice challenged for gold at Super-Lightweight – falling short on points against Jose Carlos Ramirez for the WBC crown in 2019 before suffering an eleventh-round stoppage against Regis Prograis for the same title in November 2022.

‘Chon’ presents a significant step up in class for Smith – who has cleaned up the domestic 140lbs scene by capturing the British and Commonwealth Titles – and the experienced 34-year-old admits that he would consider retirement if he were to suffer defeat at the hands of ‘Thunder’.

“This is going to be a hell of a fight,” said Zepeda. “One thing we know; we have to win big. I have to win this fight. I’m still here because I want new opportunities. I want my fourth chance (at a World Title). I’m already 34-years-old; that’s why I’m taking hard fights. I want a hard fights, and I am planning my way back with this fight.

“I saw his record; I know he’s 15-0. I know he’s a big star in the UK. I think it’s a good chance for me to get back to the top. I know he’s good and he seems like a star over there in the UK. He’s energetic inside that ring. He likes to move and he’s kind of fast. I know he likes to come forwards to that’s going to make it a great fight. I do believe it’s going to be a great fight.

“We’re going to love the style. The winners here in this fight are going to be the fans. He’s going to have a hard fight in front of him. This is the first time he’s stepping up in the levels; so he’s going to find out that it’s not easy. It’s not easy to get in there.

“The UK fans, they love boxing – and I know they’re going to love the fight. It’s going to be a war in there because I know Dalton will bring it. I’m happy to go over there and I’m planning to win some new fans. At the end of the day they better cheer their guy up well afterwards because he’s going to need it.”

Last time out in September, Zepeda was on the wrong side of a boxing masterclass from one of the USA’s brightest emerging stars Richardson Hitchins. Undeterred by a shutout points loss, the southpaw jumped at the chance to step in the ring with another of the world’s fast rising Super-Lightweight talents.

“It was a tough loss against Hitchins because I wanted to get back into the top ten,” said Zepeda. “He is a talented fighter. I do believe he is going to be a champion. I could have taken an easy fight but that’s not going to get me anywhere. I want a hard fight so I can get back straight away into the top ten contenders in the 140lbs division.

“Richardson Hitchins was more like a move around. He doesn’t like to get hit. I know Dalton likes to come forwards so I think it’s going to be a great fight. If I win this fight it’s going to open my opportunities with Matchroom and that’s what I want. I want big opportunities. Experience is what has me here at this point. Three times I’ve fought for a World Title; I want my fourth opportunity.

“If I don’t win this fight most likely I’m probably going to retire. So, I’m training my hardest to make sure I don’t retire. If I don’t win this fight, then that means there’s no big fights for me afterwards. I’m planning on only being in big fights; so, I have to win this fight.”

Zepeda vs. Smith headlines a huge night of action in Sheffield, Derby’s WBO Welterweight World Champion Sandy Ryan (6-1-1, 2 KOs) puts her gold on the line against Denaby Main’s two-division World Champion Terri Harper (14-1-2, 6 KOs) in a huge domestic clash, it’s Leeds against Darlington as Ishmael Davis (12-0, 6 KOs) and TroyWilliamson (20-2-1, 14 KOs) meet in a Final Eliminator for the British Super-Welterweight Title,  Hyde’s Campbell Hatton (14-0, 5 KOs) goes for his first title when he meets Doncaster’s James Flint (13-1-2, 3 KOs) for the Central Area Super-Lightweight Title, Mansfield’s Nico Leivars (5-0-1) takes on Southend’s Piotr Mirga (7-2) in a Final Eliminator for the English Bantamweight Title, Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Liam Cameron (22-5, 9 KOs) returns after his first-round win over Harry Matthews last month, Newham Super-Welterweight prospect Leli Buttigieg (2-0, 1 KO) fights for the second time this year and Cusworth Middleweight Connan Murray (6-0, 1 KO) kicks off the Before The Bell action. 

8 x 2 mins Featherweight contest
 
Jasmine Artiga (116lbs) vs. Josefina Vega (114lbs)
Tampa, Florida             Quito, Ecuador
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
 
Jeovanny Estela (153.5lbs) vs.        Gerardo Carabello (153.4lbs)
Orlando, Florida           Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest
 
Khalil Coe (179.6lbs) vs. Kenmon Evans (179.8lbs)
Jersey City, New Jersey         New Smyrna Beach, Florida
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins WBA International Super-Lightweight title 
 
Orestes Velazquez (140lbs)   vs.     Mohamed Soumaoro (139.6lbs)
Miami, Florida              Montreal, Quebec
 
Live on DAZN from 8pm
 
10 x 3 mins WBA International and IBF North American Middleweight titles
 
Austin Williams (160lbs)       vs. Steve Rolls (159.2lbs)
Houston, Texas            Toronto, Canada
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine titles
 
Jessica McCaskill (146.4lbs)  vs.     Sandy Ryan (146.4lbs)
Chicago, Illinois            Derby, England
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
 
Conor Benn (153.6lbs) vs.     Rodolfo Orozco (154.4lbs)
Ilford, England              Sinaloa, Mexico
 
Followed by 
 
12 x 3 mins WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American Super-Lightweight titles
 
Richardson Hitchins (139.8lbs) vs. Jose Zepeda (140lbs)
Brooklyn, New York               La Puenta, California
 

RICHARDSON HITCHINS faces Jose Zepeda over 10 rounds for the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American titles

“I’ve got to say that I am excited. I want to say ‘Thank you, God’ for this opportunity and thank you to you, Eddie, and Matchroom. Jose Zepeda says that I have never fought at this level. But he is forgetting that I was a kid at 22 years old with only ten professional fights and beating guys like Argenis Mendez, a guy who had already won a world title, and for every fight after that, I told anybody and everybody who they put me in the ring with that isn’t on a World championship level that it is a step down. 

“Jose Zepeda has fought a lot of professional fights but also, he doesn’t have that on his record. Also, he’s fought a lot of guys who don’t have the athleticism or the same skillset than what I bring to the table. They’re all one-dimensional guys. You know, guys like Ivan Baranchyk, who was one of his best wins, but that guy was nothing. He had no fundamental skills at all in the ring. When he gets in the ring with me this Saturday, it doesn’t matter how many fights he’s had or whether he’s been in with Jose Ramirez. 

“There’s a reason why I’m here after 16 fights. I’m a very smart fighter. He’ll figure that out when I open up on him. You will see that on Saturday night. Everything he says when he talks about levels, he’s fought people like Josue Vargas who he talked his way into the fight. I fought my way into this fight, and I have dominated everybody who has been put in front of me. He will be in a tough fight. I’m going to be around here for a long time.

“I can’t say that I’m looking at this as a tough test, but it is a test because Jose Zepeda got here by being a great boxer. But guys like Baranchyk made mistakes against him, so he won. But he can’t do that with me because I don’t make mistakes.”

JOSE ZEPEDA faces Richardson Hitchins over 10 rounds for the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American titles

“I’m always ready. I want to say thank you to you Eddie Hearn and to everyone at Matchroom. We added a new trainer in Manny Robles, my brother and Stitch. I want to thank all of them because it’s thanks to them that it has been one hell of a training camp. We always come ready. I’ve been there, done that and I’ve come through everything. I’ve had a little bit of bad luck for my challenger fights, but I believe that I’m in my prime. I know I’m 34 years old, but this is where I’m working the hardest at 34 and where I feel that I’m the best. 

“That’s the main reason why I am taking this fight [the prospect of future World title challenges]. But I know in Richardson Hitchins, that he’s a fast fighter and the best prospect out there at 140. I know for a fact that if I beat him, I’m going straight back to the top for a world title shot. So, that’s what I’m looking for and to fight once again for a world title. 

“In the fights I have seen of him, he is a talented fighter and a good prospect – but he hasn’t been at this level yet. That’s why in this fight we are going to see if he can work under pressure. There are levels. Trust me when I fought for a world title for the first time against [Jose Carlos] Ramirez, the first time I got hit to the body I knew that it was a different level. It’s different stuff. So, let’s see what it’s all about and see how he handles things on Saturday night.

CONOR BENN returns the ring against Rodolfo Orozco over ten rounds at Super-Welterweight

“There’s no pressure. I’m just going to go in there and do what I do, do what I love to do and what I was born to do. Saturday night has been a long time coming. I’ve had to jump through so many hurdles and this last year has been the hardest fight of my life. So, what can he do to me? I’m just going to go out there and do what I do. If I see an opening, I will take it. He’s got to know that if I see an opening, I will take it. I say that twice because when I say, I mean it.

“He’s my World title fight. That’s how I treat every fighter. Irrespective of people saying this should be a warm-up or this should be a stepping-stone, I treat every fight like it’s for a world title.

“I’ll be happy to get the rounds in, of course. I know it’s worth its weight in gold. But as I said before, if I see and opening, I will take it. I’m a sharp-shooter, I don’t miss. I’m accurate with my shots. I carry the power; I carry the speed. Whatever he wants to do, I can assure you, there will be a response. I can assure you now, there will be a counter. He best think three steps in advance. 

“There’s a lot of everything that’s going to come out on Saturday night: frustration, aggression, speed, power. It’s all going to come out. There’s no pressure. If anything, I’m just excited. It’s just pure excitement to get in there and do what I know to do. I am born to fight. This is what I do. It’s in my DNA. My DNA is strong, it’s proven. I was put on this planet to fight. On Saturday night he will soon find out because he said he doesn’t know my name – but after Saturday night he will know my name.” 

RODOLFO OROZCO faces Conor Benn over ten rounds at Super-Welterweight

First and foremost, thank you very much to Matchroom. We’ve been waiting for this opportunity to fight here for a long, long time so, of course, we are going to put on a good show on Saturday night.

I’ve been waiting and preparing for a fight like this for a long time. In previous months we’ve been waiting for a big fight like this, and they have fallen through. So, I am completely ready for this fight as I’ve been preparing all the time. We’re coming to win. 

Of course, it’s a huge opportunity for me. I am making my debut in this country, and we are coming to win. 

JESSICA McCASKILL and Sandy Ryan clash in a unification blockbuster at Welterweight

“I’m ready and I am very excited that my team are here. You look at the tale of the tape and you’ve got a 30-year-old coming for an almost 40-year-old – but not yet! You can think about the age and the numbers, or you can think about your camp and what you’ve been working on or, as she mentioned, studying tapes and things like that. But when it all comes down to it, it’s about getting in the ring and what happens when you get inside that ring. 

“I am very excited about this fight. This is a legit, top-notch fight. She fought [Erica] Farias twice. In Farias and some of the people she has fought, I feel like they are the gatekeepers for belts and for certain divisions. That was a legit fight. So, that’s kind of where my mindset is as far as what I am headed to on Saturday night.

“I think it’s very awkward to watch my fights. I don’t have a traditional style or anything. I don’t even watch a lot of my fights. I might watch each fight maybe once or twice to see it from different perspectives but that is it. I just have like root angles and things like that. I don’t know if people maybe they think of my footwork or more punches or to change the pressure or add the pressure. But we work on a bit of everything, so we’ll see what happens on Saturday. 

“Saturday will open more doors for other things. So, it is very important that it is a very clean win – not a split decision or anything like that – it needs to be decisive. Switching weight classes there are a lot of females who there but maybe in a different weight class. But in terms of opportunities and belts, I’m trying to get a couple of sets of all the belts. That’s the kind of things we talk about. But let’s get through Saturday first. That’s the focus.”

SANDY RYAN locks horns with Jessica McCaskill in a five-belt unification battle at 147lbs

“It’s a massive moment for me, making my American debut and I am excited for that. As I’ve said in all my interviews, I respect Jessica as a fighter. The way I’m bringing myself into this fight, both physically and mentally, you’re going to see how much respect I do have for her. But I’m just so confident now that I’m bringing all of these belts home.

“Yes, it has been a fast track for me, and I wouldn’t have changed it. It’s made me who I am right now. I’m professional on the job and I have learned the hard way. This is not the amateur game it’s the pro game and I know that. That’s why I live like a pro now. That’s why I believe that I’m bringing those belts back home because I love boxing and this camp has been great. 

“I’ve covered everything. I know Jess will come in at her best. People have been asking me about what fights of hers have I watched and if I’ve studied her last fight. I’ve not really watched her last fight. She obviously had a bad day, and I can’t go off that. I believe my ability is much better than hers. I’m not taking anything away from her and I believe I’m much better than her and that this is a new era.”

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). 

Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to headline the Before the Bell action 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’ 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.

Richardson Hitchins says he’s too good to feel pressure in headlining for the first time in his career on Saturday night – and will put on a dazzling performance against Jose Zepeda to prove it, as they clash at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is bearing down on the champions at 140lbs, and victory over former World title challenger Zepeda (37-3 28 KOs) would see the Brooklyn ace knocking on the door for a crack at the belts.

The 25 year old joined promoter Eddie Hearn in visiting the School of Hard Knocks gym in Orlando to impart their wisdom on aspiring young fighters, and seeing the work done in the community by the gym reminded Hitchins of how far he’s come from humble beginnings to the edge of glory.

“I don’t really feel the pressure of headlining,” said Hitchins. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think that there’s always been pressure for me for day one, but I handle it because I am confident in my ability and in who I am. I am a special fighter; at the end of the day, it’s boxing and I truly believe I’m one of the best out there.”

“Every opportunity is important, so I am looking at this fight like I have all my previous fights, it’s must-win. If you can master boxing and you can conquer the world, and that’s what I am in the sport for, to be at the very top.

“From starting out to headlining on Saturday it’s been a crazy journey. I think back to being a kid that walked into a boxing gym after seeing Marcus Browne in the 2012 Olympics, I was probably 14, and following that was my first short-term goal to go to the Olympics. 

“From there, to signing with Mayweather Promotions, fighting on Showtime, beating a former World Champion in Argenis Mendis, and now headlining my first show; it’s just destiny when you look at it.

“When you are chasing a dream and you are on that journey, it’s easy for people to doubt you or think you aren’t that guy. There are always things on the outside that you may have to overcome, but when you have my focus, your eyes set on that goal, all you must do is focus on that because the storm always ends, and you will get to the sunshine.

“My family was homeless, I have come from a tough beginning, but I always knew boxing would be a way out. I am making sure that me and my family never have to go back to days that I couldn’t help. Period. I think I have a gift and I am using that to make like better for them. I’m able to help and the more I master my craft, I will use it to achieve more and more inside and outside the ring.”

Hitchins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked card in Orlando, with co-main action in the form of the return of British star Conor Benn (21-0, 14 KOs) who faces Mexican Super-Welterweight Rodolfo ‘Sinaloita’ Orozco (32-3-3, 24 KOs)

Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) clashing in a unification battle for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine Welterweight titles and 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). 

Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to headline the Before the Bell action 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’ 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.

Richardson Hitchins is planning to dominate Jose Zepeda and send a message to the big guns at 140lbs that he’s coming for them when they clash on Saturday night at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is sitting pretty at #5 in the WBO and #7 in the IBF, and victory on Saturday night would see him rise to the cusp of World title fights, with the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American Super-Lightweight titles on the line.

The Brooklyn ace shone in his last outing, flooring New Jersey’s John Bauza en-route to a shut out over ten at Madison Square Garden. The 25 year old knows continuing to win is vital to landing the World title shot he craves, but not content with that, Hitchins believes that his rivals will stand up when he delivers dominant displays, and that starts with the biggest test of his career in former World title challenger Zepeda (37-3 28 KOs).

“Winning is number one of course, but to get the big fights I have to win and dominate,” said Hitchins.

“I’m ready for the champions because when you look at the guys Prograis or Haney fight, those are guys that I am a nightmare for any of them. I have size, reach, superb defense – I can damn near feel when a guy is about to punch. So, when you have a guy like that against a guy that doesn’t know how to defend themselves, it kind of makes it tricky for them, because I’ve been in there with guys that just stand in front of you and don’t have the ability. You get in front of a guy like Shakur Stevenson, that turns boxing into a math problem, it’s different and that’s what you face with me. I can bring that puzzle that people can’t solve, it’s algebra in the ring. 

“Every fight at 140lbs is a good fight, this is a great fight. Jose is confident, he’s put people to sleep, out, first round KOs, had the fight of the year in 2020 with Baranchyk. And then there’s people now saying, ‘OK let’s see how Richardson handles Zepeda’. Then you have Teofimo, he says he’s from Brooklyn – I know he ain’t, but I am. He beat the man at 140 and I feel I’m the uncrowned king at 140 and that would be a great fight. 

“Jose is supposed to say he wants to fight me. He’s 34 years old, he’s been campaigning for a long time, he has confidence, he was power, and he’s got the tools to make it a nightmare for me, so he should be taking an opportunity like this, why would he say no?

“It’s just my job to show him that I am on a different level to him. He’s going to try to use his experience to try land his power, pressure me. Boxing is a sport where you must be smart, he’s a tough fighter but he’s not a durable one because he’s been down numerous times and I feel the mistake that they cannot make its me is overlooking my power, I’m a very sharp powerful fighter. My record may not show it, but if you pay attention, it shows I am punching. 

“I’m a way smarter boxer than Jose, he’s one-dimensional and I just feel I’ll show levels. I must be smart and show him, yeah, this kid knows what he is on. I think when I am in there, he will see that. Boxing is all about timing, everything I do is about doing it at the right time. 

“There’s a lot of things that can happen next. I want to fight again in 2023, I think that could be a guy that’s going to bring the best out of me, just like Zepeda will, and then we should be ready for the World champions, Devin, Regis and Teofimo. If I win this, I’ll climb the rankings again in the WBO, so I’ll be knocking at the door for Teo.”

Htichins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked card in Orlando, with Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) clashing in a unification battle for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine Welterweight titles.

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.

Richardson Hitchins has told Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast he’s on the path to becoming a legend in the sport – and the next step on that journey sees him mix with former World title challenger Jose Zepeda at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday September 23, live worldwide on DAZN.

Flash Knockdown – Season 3 Episode 3 is out now via all streaming platforms including Apple and Spotify by searching ’The Matchroom Boxing Podcast’ or by listening on the following link: https://pod.fo/e/1e96a7

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is full of confidence ahead of his first headline act and is fresh off the back of shining at home in his last outing, 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, but Hitchins believes that the Californian, who has challenged for World titles at both 135 and 140lbs, is the perfect opponent to prove that he’s ready to 

“Now my foot is in the door headlining my first show against someone who has a great name in the division,” said Hitchins. “It shows my pedigree and skills that I display to get to this part of the journey.

“Zepeda has competed on the World stage. It’s a level up from my previous opponents but if I am who I believe I am, I should win this fight and possibly get him out of there.

“There’s a lot on the line right now but I’m not focused on the belts. My job is to go out there and dominate Zepeda and show who I am, then we can look at the landscape of the division.

“I see myself being a legend of the sport, who has mastered the craft of boxing. I want to inspire the next generation, if you see the progression in my career from my amateur status to now, I can relate to the young talent coming through.”

Hitchins also reveals how a visit from Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis boosted his preparations and gives his pick for the potential showdown between Regis Prograis and Devin Haney. The episode also features World title challenger John Ryder talking targeting Gennadiy Golovkin and Jaime Munguia, IBF and Ring Magazine champion Jai Opetaia talks his upcoming defense against Jordan Thompson, leading trainer Jamie Moorepicks his perfect dinner party line up in Food Fight and commentator royalty Mike Costello takes another trip down memory lane with a certain Smokin’ Joe Fraizer, plus there’s a cameo from Eddie Hearn and more!

Hitchins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked night of action in Orlando, with the Welterweight division will move one step closer to crowning an undisputed champion on the night as WBA and WBC champion Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and WBO belt holder Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) meet for three of the belts. 

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 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

UADALAJARA, MEXICO (March 15, 2023) – Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN will return with its first Mexico Edition of 2023 on Saturday, March 25 live from the Domo Alcalde in Guadalajara, Mexico. The action is presented as a co-promotion with Zanfer Boxing and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. ET. 

The main event will feature a 10-round super lightweight match between La Puente, California’s Jose “Chon” Zepeda (35-3, 27 KOs) against Neeraj”Gangster” Goyat (17-3-2, 7 KOs) of Chandigarh, India. Zepeda is returning to fight after a courageous attempt for the vacant WBC Junior Welterweight title against Regis Prograis last November 2022. 

In the co-main event, Carlos “Chema” Ocampo (34-2, 22 KOs) of Ensenada, Mexico will participate in a 10-round super welterweight fight. Ocampo returns to the ring after a tough battle against Sebastian Fundora in October 2022 for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title. Also on the card, Guadalajara’s Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza (19-0, 16 KOs) is scheduled to fight in a 10-round featherweight clash. Opponents for both will soon be announced. 

Also on the card, in an eight-round super middleweight fight, recently signed prospect Aaron Silva (11-0, 8 KOs) of Monterrey, Mexico will return to the ring against Jaime Lopez (10-8, 4 KOs) of Aguascalientes, Mexico. Silva is coming into the ring after a fifth-round knockout in December 2022 against Alan Campa. 

Opening up the DAZN broadcast, Miguel “Mickey” Torres (11-1, 6 KOs) of Guadalajara is set to face Kevin “El Conan” Montiel (6-2-2, 3 KOs) of Mexico City in an eight-round super featherweight bout. 

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Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GBFightNight

CARSON, CALIFORNIA– In an impressive performance, Regis Prograis claimed the vacant WBC light welterweight title with an eleventh-round knockout of longtime contender Jose Zepeda at the Dignity Sports Health Park. 

Prograis (28-1, 24 KOs) of New Orleans, Louisiana proved to have too many dimensions for Zepeda (35-3, 27 KOs) of La Puente, California. When the flow of the bout called for him to box, Prograis boxed. When Zepeda drew him into an inside action fight, Prograis more than handled himself. 

Zepeda, 139.4, caught Prograis, 139, leaning to the left for the shot that got a rise out of the crowd in the first. Prograis landed well with his jab early in the second, but Zepeda came back late in the round. 

After boxing well at distance for much of the third, Prograis, who entered as the WBC #2 ranked contender, nearly came out of his shoes as he fired off a clean left late in the round. When Prograis went for another sweeping left, Zepeda, the WBC #1 ranked contender, threw his own in concert as the two landed simultaneous hard shots to close out the third.

After getting beaten to the jab, Zepeda drew Prograis into a firefight to close out the fourth, much to the delight of the crowd. The back-and-forth action resumed in the fifth, as neither fighter would let a clean blow go unanswered. 

Prograis controlled much of sixth, turning the fight into a boxing match with his pinpoint jab and movement. Prograis’ feints and ring generalship troubled Zepeda again for much of the seventh. Before the close of the round, an accidental clash of heads drew blood from the nose of Prograis. 

Prograis continued to outbox Zepeda through rounds eight and nine before Zepeda got him to stand-and-trade heading into the tenth. 

The tenth would feature thrilling two-way action throughout, briefly breathing new life into Zepeda’s standing in the bout as Prograis abandoned his jab first style. 

The momentum shift would be brief as Prograis rocked and dropped Zepeda along the ropes early in the eleventh. Referee Ray Corona waved off the contest at 59 seconds of round eleven. 

After the bout, Prograis refused to call out any of the other names at 140-pounds, considering he is now a champion that should be called out by them. 

For Zepeda, the third time did not end up being the charm as all three of his professional defeats have come in world title attempts. 

Valle Decisions Bermudez to Win Light Flyweight Titles

In the co-main event, IBF/WBO 105-pound champion Yokasta Valle (27-2, 9 KOs) of San Jose, San Jose, Costa Rica moved up in weight to claim the light flyweight version of the same two titles from previously undefeated champion Evelyn Bermudez (17-1-1, 6 KOs) of Santa de la Vera Cruz, Santa Fe, Argentina via ten-round majority decision.

Valle, 107.4, was active and determined, but the naturally larger Argentine stood up well to the punches throughout the fight. After getting outworked at times early, Bermudez, 106, timed her right hand well in round four and caught the busier Valle clean. 

Valle kept a busy pace for all ten rounds, but it appeared Bermudez had the power edge and may have taken rounds with a well-placed right hand or two. 

In the end, two judges gave Bermudez very little credit, handing in scores of 99-91 and 97-93 for Valle. The third card was even, 95-95. 

After the win, Valle expressed her desire to meet fellow champion Seniesa Estrada at whatever weight class the fight can be made.

2016 and 2020 Uzbekistani Olympian Bakhodir Jalolov (12-0, 12 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York by way of Sariosiyo, Uzbekistan kept his knockout streak alive with a fourth-round stoppage of journeyman Curtis Harper (14-9, 9 KOs) of Jacksonville, Florida. 

Jalolov, 247.6, controlled the bout from the early stages, keeping Harper, 260, on the end of his long punches from the southpaw stance. 

Harper grew frustrated to the point of intentionally headbutting and hitting on the break during the second round, which earned him a warning from the referee. 

In the third, a straight left from Jalolov dropped Harper hard, who got up seconds before the bell and the round would close just before they could touch again.

Jalolov ended the fight, dropping Harper with a combination near the blue corner in the fourth. Harper rose before the count of ten, but referee Thomas Taylor opted the call the one-sided bout. Official time of the stoppage was 1:53 of the fourth. 

IBF #4/WBC #5/WBO #8/WBA #12 ranked light middleweight Charles Conwell (18-0, 13 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio took a hard-fought ten-round majority decision over veteran gatekeeper Juan Carlos Abreu (25-7-1, 23 KOs) of La Romana, La Romana, Dominican Republic.

Conwell, 153.8, found himself bleeding from his left eye early in the second after some inside fighting. Despite being bothered by the blood, Conwell pressed the action in the third, briefly stopping Abreu, 154, in his tracks with a clean combination upstairs. 

Conwell continued to force himself in rounds four and five, but some well-placed shots by Abreu worsened the 2016 U.S. Olympian’s cut, creating some drama as the fight moved to the middle rounds. 

Abreu, who entered as the WBC #15 ranked 154-pound contender, had one of his better rounds in round seven as he backed up Conwell with consistent combinations. However, Conwell would land the most telling blow late in the round, as a body shot forced Abreu to wince and drop his hands near the bell. 

As the fight wore on both fighters had their moments as they kept a busy junior middleweight pace in a bout that the three ringside judges would have a wide range of views. In the end, Conwell improved his ranking in what was billed as a WBC semi-final eliminator. One judge had it even, 95-95, while the other two scored it for Conwell, 98-92 and 96-94.

The son of the beloved former champion of the same name, Fernando Vargas Jr. (7-0, 7 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada hammered overnmatched local Alejandro Martinez (3-3-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles, California en route to a second-round stoppage to open the pay-per-view telecast. 

Vargas, 150, utilized his natural size advantage to control the first round before opening up offensively to start the second. Martinez, 151.2, was outgunned and hit the canvas after a combination early in the round. Referee Ray Corona took a good look at Martinez, but allowed the bout to continue before another two-punch combination forced Martinez to slide to the canvas and forced the stoppage at 2:40 of round two. 

Super bantamweight prospect Nathan Rodriguez (10-0, 7 KOs) of Pico Rivera, California turned back a game Jerson Ortiz (17-6, 8 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua to score a wide eight-round unanimous decision in a bout tougher than the scores would lead you to believe. 

Rodriguez, 123.4, scored a knockdown during an exchange early in the third. Ortiz, 123.8, opted for the offense is the best defense approach and was downed again midway through the round. 

Through three rounds a distance result looked unlikely, but Ortiz landed some windmill shots to some effect in the fourth before Rodriguez turned back the tide late in the round. The two would engage in two-way exchanges down the stretch of the fight, as Ortiz made a fight out of it after the bleak beginning. The judges could not be swayed to credit Ortiz much for his effort, as Rodriguez took the bout and the minor WBC FECARBOX title by scores of 80-70 and 79-71 twice.

In an upset, Eduardo Estela (14-1, 9 KOs) of Montevideo, Uruguay spoiled the previously unblemished record Ruben Torres (19-1, 16 KOs) of Santa Monica, California via a hard-fought eight-round split decision. 

Estela, 136, staggered Torres, 136.2, against the ropes midway through the first, scoring a knockdown and prompting a count from referee Thomas Taylor. Estela pressed for the remainder of the round, but Torres managed to regain his footing. 

Torres fared much better in rounds two and three before Estela closed out the fourth strong, knocking the Californian off balance late in the round. Estela continued as the aggressor through the late rounds, forcing the crowd favorite Torres to fight on the move or with his back to the ropes much of the time. Torres stood his ground and fought at a beneficial distance in the eighth to close out the bout, but in the end it was not enough to leave Carson with his unbeaten record intact. Two judges scored in favor of Estela, 78-73 and 76-75. Torres took the dissenting card 76-75. 

One of two sons of Fernando Vargas on the card, Amado Vargas (5-0, 2 KOs) of Las Vegas passed a tougher-than-expected test in the form of Osmar Olmos Hernandez (1-2) of Santa Clarita, California.

Vargas, 125.8, opened the four-round bout at a frantic pace, eventually downing Olmos Hernandez, 124.4, with an overhand right early in the first round. Two follow-up lefts would cost the young Vargas a point as referee Jerry Cantu ruled they had come after the knockdown was scored. 

Olmos Hernandez finished the first with renewed vigor and carried that energy into the second frame. The stanza would feature back-and-forth action as both Vargas and Olmos Hernandez swung for the fences with little regard for defense. 

As the fight wound down, Vargas settled into more of a boxer’s posture which enabled the offspring “El Feroz” to cruise to a unanimous decision by scores of 39-35 and 38-36 twice.

Slick southpaw Austin Brooks (9-0, 3 KOs) of La Mesa, California pounded away at sturdy Jesus Roman (8-6, 3 KOs) of Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico en route to a third-round stoppage. 

Brooks,129, opted to fight at close range despite his size advantage and was just too quick and strong for the game Roman, 129.6. The Mexican native fought hard throughout but ultimately wilted to the mat after a barrage in third. Referee Jerry Cantu waved off the contest at 2:03 of the round.

Local middleweight prospect Eric Priest (9-0, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles barely broke a sweat before scoring a three-knockdown KO of Luis Alberto Vera (11-22-2, 1 KO) of Buenos Aires.

Priest, 160, flurried Vera, 159.8, to the mat for two quick knockdowns in the opening round. Vera had no answer for anything Priest had to offer and was put down a third time by a stinging body shot moments later. Referee Thomas Taylor stopped the bout immediately after Vera took to a knee for the third knockdown.

Jacob Macalolooy (4-0, 3 KOs) of Union City, California remained unbeaten with a second-round stoppage of Terrance Jarmon (3-2, 1 KO) of Toledo, Ohio to open tonight’s card.

Macalolooy, 146.8, dropped Jarmon, 144, late in the first with an overhand left. The southpaw Jarmon fought in survival mode for the remainder of the first and survived to the bell. However it was just a matter of time before Macalolooy ended the bout, dropping Jarmon early in the second, prompting a stoppage from refereeJerry Cantu at the 1:02 mark of round two.

RED CORNER BLUE CORNER
WBC SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE – 12 ROUNDS (PPV)
JOSE ZEPEDA (139.4lb.) vs. REGIS PROGRAIS (139lb.)
La Puente, CA New Orleans, LA
35-2, 27 KOs 27-1, 23 KOs

WOMEN’S /IBF/ WBO JUNIOR FLYWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS (PPV)
YOKASTA VALLE (107.4) vs. EVELYN BERMUDEZ (106)
San Jose, Costa Rica Santa Fe, Argentina
26-2, 9 KOs) 17-0-1, 6 KOs

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 10 ROUNDS (PPV)
BAKHODIR JALOLOV (247.6) vs. CURTIS HARPER (260)
Brooklyn, NY Jacksonville, FL

11-0, 11 KOs 14-8, 9 KO’s
WBC SEMIFINAL JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR– 10 ROUNDS (PPV)
CHARLES CONWELL (153.8) vs. JUAN CARLOS ABREU (154)
Cleveland, OH La Romana, Dominican Republic
17-0-0, 13 KOs 25-6-1, 23 KOs

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS (PPV)
FERNANDO VARGAS JR. (150) vs. ALEJANDRO MARTINEZ (151.2)
Las Vegas, NV Los Angeles, CA
6-0, 6 KOs 3-2-1, 2 KOs

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS (FREEVIEW)

NATHAN RODRIGUEZ (123.4) vs. JERSON ORTIZ (123.8)
Pico Rivera, CA Managua, Nicaragua
9-0, 7 KOs 17-5, 8 KOs

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS (FREEVIEW)

RUBEN TORRES (136.2) vs. EDUARDO ESTELA (136)
Santa Monica, CA Montevideo, Uruguay
19-0, 16 KOs 13-1, 9 KOs

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS (FREEVIEW)

ALEJANDRO REYES (142.6) vs. DANIEL PERALES (142.4)
Mexicali, Mexico Monterrey, Mexico
9-0, 5 KOs 12-24-2, 6 KOs

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

AMADO VARGAS (125.8) vs. OSMAR OLMOS HERNANDEZ (142.4)
Las Vegas, NV Santa Clarita, CA
4-0, 2 KOs 1-1
SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

AUSTIN BROOKS (129) vs. JESUS ROMAN (129.6)
La Mesa, CA Sinaloa, Mexico
8-0, 2 KOs 8-5, 3 KOs

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

MARIO RAMOS (151.6) vs. GERONIMO SACCO (150)
San Diego, CA Buenos Aires, Argentina
10-0, 8 KOs 10-6-1, 2 KOs

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

ERIC PRIEST (160) vs. LUIS ALBERTO VERA (159.8)
Los Angeles, CA Buenos Aires, Argentina
8-0, 6 KOs 11-21-2 , 1 KO

WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

JACOB MACALOLOOY (146.8) vs. TERRANCE JARMON (144)
San Diego, CA Ohio
3-0, 2 KOs 3-1, 1 KO

Los Angeles, CA (November 23, 2022) Tensions were high on Tuesday afternoon in Los Angeles as a massive crowd of Southern California media attended the final press conference for ‘Battle of the Best’ Tuesday afternoon with #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (23-0-1, 20 KOs), of La Puente, CA and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis, (27-1, 23 KOs), of New Orleans, LA coming face-to-face for one of the final times ahead of their highly anticipated battle for the prestigious WBC Super Lightweight World Title set for this Saturday night, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’ Dignity Health Sports Park.

‘Battle of the Best’, promoted by MarvNation Promotions and Legendz Entertainment, can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. including FITE and PPV.COM. Remaining tickets starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.

Joining Zepeda and Prograis at the final press conference were moderator Beto Duran and Marvin Rodriguez of MarvNation Promotions along with PPV undercard fighters; unified minimum weight world champion Yokasta ‘Yoka’ Valle and undefeated world champion Evelyn ‘La Princesita’ Bermudez,  undefeated heavyweight contender Bakhodir ‘The Big Uzbek’ Jalolov and veteran Curtis Harper,  undefeated junior middleweight contender Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell andupset minded, Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu.

Also, in attendance were brothers; junior middleweight Fernando ‘EL Feroz’ Vargas Jr. and featherweight Amado ‘EL Malvado’ Vargas along with their father / head trainer, boxing legend Fernando Vargas Sr, with undefeated prospects featured on the PPV Freeview (7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT); super bantamweight Nathan Rodriguez, (9-0, 7 KOs) lightweight Ruben ‘Ace’ Torres, (19-0, 16 KOs) and super welterweight Alejandro Martinez, (3-2-1, 2 KOs).

Below are quotes from Jose Zepeda, Regis Prograis and Marvin Rodriguez.

Jose Zepeda

“This is athird time fighting for a world title for me and that’s why I keep saying this is the time for me to get my world title belt. I have all the experience I need. Regis Prograis is going to be fighting the best version of Jose Zepeda. I really believe it’s now or never.”

It’s nice to fight for the world title at home, I’m always fighting on the road. It’s extra motivation for me to fight in my backyard. It’s going to be a great night for boxing. I’ve heard it all before that I’m not going to win certain fights but my track record speaks for itself.”

“Prograis is going to be very surprised by my power and speed. We’re both going to fight the way we’ve been fighting. He hits hard, I hit hard and both of us are desperate to win which will make for a great fight. Both of us have a lot of heart and we both are looking for a real fight to settle this. I had two previous opportunities to win a world title and I truly believe this is the best version of me for this fight.”

Regis Prograis

“When I was the world champion everybody called my name but once I didn’t have the belt it all stopped and I know I’m a dangerous fighter and that’s part of the reason. For me, I’m just glad I’m getting the opportunity to fight for the world title again. Being a two-time world champion in the 140lb. division is my main focus now. I’m not surprised Zepeda took the fight, that’s what we all want, to become world champions. I know what type of fighter he is.”

“He going to come to fight and so am I. He said he’s 100% after the car accident so I don’t want to hear any excuses after the fight. I’m ready to dominate for 12 rounds. I’m going to dominate and I’m not worried about anything else.”

“I just feel like I’m on another level than him, skill wise. I have more experience and I’ve been at the top already. If you compare strength, power, chin, stamina, speed, defense, I feel like I win every time. Every category, it’s me. He’s been hurt, he’s been dropped a bunch of times. I’ve never been hurt and I destroy people.”

Marvin Rodriguez

“It’s going to be the best fight of the year, #1 vs #2, something you rarely see. Now people know who MarvNation is, we’ve come out strong and we’re making a statement with this fight. This is just the first of many statements coming out.”

                                                ————————————————-

With the international boxing world witnessing extraordinary women’s world championship bouts throughout this year, the tremendous momentum continues as fast-rising female superstar Yokasta ‘Yoka’ Valle, (26-2, 9 KO’s), of San Jose, Costa Rica battles undefeated world champion Evelyn ‘La Princesita’ Bermudez, (17-0-1, 6 KOs), of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina for the WBC and WBO Junior Flyweight World Titles over ten scheduled rounds.

Fighting in the junior middleweight division, undefeated contender, 2016 U.S. Olympian Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, (17-0, 13 KOs), of Cleveland, OH, who many experts believe will soon be the division’s upcoming king, faces his toughest opposition against upset minded, Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu, (25-6-1, 23 KOs) in a ten-round fight.

2020 Olympic Gold Medalist Bakhodir ‘The Big Uzbek’ Jalolov, (11-0, 11 KOs), standing 6’7” and considered the dominant heavyweight of the future, faces off against veteran Curtis Harper, (14-8, 9 KOs), of Jacksonville, FL over ten rounds.

In a special attraction super welterweight six rounder, boxing fans will see the ‘Son of a Legend’, sure-fire prospect Fernando Vargas Jr. (6-0, 6 KOs), open the Pay-Per-View against local favorite Alejandro Martinez, (3-2-1, 2 KOs), of Los Angeles.

LOS ANGELES, NOVEMBER 22 – Regis Prograis has listed the six reasons why he will defeat Jose Zepeda and reinstate himself as the best super lightweight in the world.

Prograis faces Zepeda in Carson, California on Saturday night, with the vacant WBC world super lightweight title up for grabs.

The 33-year-old, a former WBA title holder, respects Zepeda but is adamant he will be too much to handle at the Dignity Health Sports Park this weekend.

And ‘Rougarou’ says victory will not only secure him one of the four recognised world belts, but also re-establish him as the best 140lbs fighter on the planet.

“Zepeda’s never fought a southpaw this elusive, a southpaw that is strong like I am, a southpaw that has defence and a southpaw who has a chin on top of that,” Prograis told Probellum.com.

“I feel like you can hit me with anything, it’s not going to do anything. But the main thing is he hasn’t fought a workhorse like me, it is one of my strongest suits. I work so hard in training camp, I kill myself. And on top of that, there is my hunger.”

Prograis was rated as the world No1 when he headed into his 2019 unification blockbuster with Josh Taylor in London.

The American lost a classic contest on points that night and insists that by reclaiming one of the world titles, this weekend, he will once again have a strong case to also be known as the best super lightweight around.

“When people introduce me, they do so as ‘the former champ’ you but I want to be the current champion, and not only that, I want to be known as the best in the world in my division,” Prograis said.

“That is even more important to me than being a champion, it’s to be the best in the world in my division.

“There will always be debates but after Saturday, my name will be really, really high on the list. You have other fighters that are good, but I think after Saturday, my name should be at the top of the 140lbs list.”

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Los Angeles, CA (November 21, 2022) Monday afternoon at Churchill Boxing Gym in Santa Monica, CA, #2 Ranked World Boxing Council (WBC) Contender Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis went through a brisk workout in front of a huge crowd of Southern California media kicking off fight week media events for ‘Battle of the Best’, this Saturday night, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’ Dignity Health Sports Park.

Headlined by the WBC Super Lightweight World Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (23-0-1, 20 KOs), of La Puente, CA and #2 Ranked Prograis, (27-1, 22 KOs), of New Orleans, LA, the ‘Battle of the Best’, presented and produced by Legendz Entertainment in association with MarvNation Promotions, can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets on beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. including FITE and PPV.COM. Remaining tickets starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.

Zepeda was involved in a minor traffic accident on the way to the media workouts and was unable to be in attendance. He was not injured in the accident.

Joining Prograis at the media workouts were PPV undercard fighters; unified minimum weight world Yokasta ‘Yoka’ Valle, undefeated heavyweight contender Bakhodir ‘The Big Uzbek’ Jalolov, undefeated junior middleweight contender Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, brothers; junior middleweight Fernando ‘EL Feroz’ Vargas Jr. and featherweight Amado ‘EL Malvado’ Vargas along with their father / head trainer, boxing legend Fernando Vargas Sr. Additionally working out for the media were undefeated prospects featured on the PPV Freeview (7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT); super bantamweight Nathan Rodriguez, (9-0, 7 KOs) and lightweight Ruben ‘Ace’ Torres, (19-0, 16 KOs) along with and super welterweight Alejandro Martinez, (3-2-1, 2 KOs).

Below are quotes from Regis Prograis along with a short quote from Jose Zepeda.

REGIS PROGRAIS

“Camp was hell, for me it’s like small victories in camp, like spending time with my children that I look forward to. This was a long camp, almost six months as I was supposed to fight in August and then this world title opportunity came up for November 26.”

“Training everyday was three sessions, boxing in the morning, strength and conditioning in the late afternoon and then more boxing in the evening. I’m a night person when I’m not training so waking up early every day in camp wears on me.”

“I just feel like I’m better, I’m not really nervous at all. I’ve trained so much for the last three years for this opportunity.”

“Zepeda can’t let me hit him too much in this fight if he’s trying to set traps. If I can find him I don’t think it’s going to be good for him. I don’t fight to box, I fight to hurt people. In my last three fights, I didn’t get hit and I got all three knockouts.”

“This is what I really, really love, to fight. Love the world title and the money but I really love getting in the ring on fight night.”

“I’m glad Teofimo Lopez is at 140, the division is really lit up now, that’s why I insisted on staying at 140 when I could have moved up. I’ve got a nutritionist now and don’t have to worry about making weight. I could stay at 140 for the rest of my career now if I want to.”

“There’s a lot of big fights ahead but the first thing is Jose Zepeda. Tank vs. Ryan is a good fight in the division, I got Tank but Ryan’s confidence is sky high. That’s a fight I hope to see in person if I’m not in camp. And of course, I want the winner.”

“Sandor Martin is a good test for Teofimo now, it’s a really good fight. It’s a better fight than Pedraza for Teofimo, Sandor Martin will come to win. This will prove if Teo is ready for the 140lb. division.”

“I thought Zepeda would be here at the media workouts, sorry to hear about the car accident which prevented him from coming. Looking forward to seeing him face-to-face again tomorrow at the press conference.”

JOSE ZEPEDA

“Sorry about missing the media workouts. I had a little accident but I’m good. We are 100% ready to go.”

                                                ————————————————-

With the international boxing world witnessing extraordinary women’s world championship bouts throughout this year, the tremendous momentum continues as fast-rising female superstar Yokasta ‘Yoka’ Valle, (26-2, 9 KO’s), of San Jose, Costa Rica battles undefeated world champion Evelyn ‘La Princesita’ Bermudez, (17-0-1, 6 KOs), of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina for the WBC and WBO Junior Flyweight World Titles over ten scheduled rounds.

Fighting in the junior middleweight division, undefeated contender, 2016 U.S. Olympian Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, (17-0, 13 KOs), of Cleveland, OH, who many experts believe will soon be the division’s upcoming king, faces his toughest opposition against upset minded, Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu, (25-6-1, 23 KOs) in a ten-round fight.

2020 Olympic Gold Medalist Bakhodir ‘The Big Uzbek’ Jalolov, (11-0, 11 KOs), standing 6’7”and considered the dominant heavyweight of the future, faces off against veteran Curtis Harper, (14-8, 9 KOs), of Jacksonville, FL over ten rounds.

In a special attraction super welterweight six rounder, boxing fans will see the ‘Son of a Legend’, sure-fire prospect Fernando Vargas Jr. (6-0, 6 KOs), open the Pay-Per-View against local favorite Alejandro Martinez, (3-2-1, 2 KOs), of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, CA (November 14, 2022) Can’t Miss, Undefeated Junior Middleweight Prospect and ‘Son of a Legend’ Fernando ‘El Feroz’ Vargas Jr., (6-0, 6 KOs), of Las Vegas, NV will open the ‘Battle of the Best’ Pay-Per-View against Alejandro ‘Thunder’ Martinez, (3-2-1, 2 KOs), of Montebello, CA set for Saturday, November 26 from ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park, just outside of Los Angeles.

Vargas Jr. vs. Martinez, scheduled for six rounds, is featured at ‘Battle of the Best’, headlined by the highly anticipated WBC 140lb. World Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis.

Presented and produced by Legendz Entertainment in association with MarvNation Promotions, “Battle of the Best” can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets on Saturday, November 26 beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. including FITE and PPV.COM. Remaining tickets starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.

Said the fast-rising star, Vargas Jr. about the upcoming fight, “I feel blessed for this opportunity to be fighting on pay-per-view and I’m not taking it lightly. I’ve had a hard training camp and I’m excited to demonstrate my skills to the public.”

Vargas Jr. is trained by his father, three-time junior middleweight world champion, Fernando ‘Feroz’ Vargas Sr. “I’m excited, my boys got it. They’re my seeds so they have what it takes. I’m proud of Junior, he has a last name that carries history. He has the goods and I can’t wait to see him show his talent November 26th. We’re more than ready.” 

This past Saturday night, Vargas Jr’s younger brother, 18-year-old Emiliano ‘El General’ Vargas, again impressed the boxing world with his second knockout victory, fighting at The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and live on ESPN+. The third boxing son of Vargas Sr., undefeated featherweight prospect Amado ‘El Malvado’ Vargas, (4-0, 2 KOs), will also be fighting on the off-TV undercard at ‘Battle of the Best’, with further details to be announced shortly.

The heavy-handed southpaw Vargas Jr. has quickly impressed boxing fans since hitting the paid ranks two years ago, scoring knockout victories in each of his six professional bouts, four of which have come in the first two rounds. In his last start on May 14, 2022, he stunned the huge crowd at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, CA with a devastating first round knockout of Terrance Jarmon.

The upset minded Martinez returns to battle after a shutout four-round decision victory over Rafael Herrera Amezcua on May 28, 2022. Prior to that he traveled to Madison Square Garden on October 30, 2021, losing a very hotly contested majority decision to undefeated prospect Pablo Valdez.

Los Angeles, CA (November 7, 2022) Hall of Famers, Boxing Legends, World Champions and Boxing Celebrities will highlight the can’t miss “Battle of the Best” Pay-Per-View broadcast on Saturday, November 26 originating from ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, just outside of Los Angeles.

Featured on the all-star broadcast will be 2015 International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini, 2017 International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee Marco Antonio Barrera and Former Junior Middleweight Champion of the World, Raul ‘El Diamante Marquez.

Joining on the broadcast will be Popular Boxing TV Host and Reporter Cynthia Conte, International Boxing Commentator Corey Erdman, Mexico’s Longtime Voice of Boxing Ernesto Amador and World-Renowned Boxing Cornerman Mike Rodriguez.

Presented and produced by Legendz Entertainment in association with MarvNation Promotions, “Battle of the Best” is headlined by the long awaited WBC Super Lightweight Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis (27-1, 23 KO’s) and can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets on Saturday, November 26 beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. including FITE and PPV.COM.

‘The Fighting Pride of Youngstown, Ohio’ Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini held the WBA Lightweight World Title for over two years in the early 80’s and was particularly known for his aggressive punching style which made him a fan favorite and highly popular with TV networks which drew record-breaking ratings for his fights. He retired in April 1992 with a record of 29-5 including 23 knockouts. In recent years he has served as a boxing analyst for numerous TV outlets.

Known as ‘The Baby-Faced Assassin’, March Antonio Barrera, (67-7, 44 KOs), is a legend among boxing fans having competed in many unforgettable fights throughout his illustrious career that spanned 22 years. The three-division world champion is best known for his epic trilogy with Erik Morales in addition to remarkable battles with Naseem Hamed Johnny Tapia, Manny Pacquiao, Paulie Ayala and Juan Manuel Marquez. Barrera will be part of the Spanish language broadcast on November 26.

Raul ‘El Diamante’ Marquez, (41-4, 29 KOs), won the IBF Junior Middleweight World Title from Terry Norris on April 12, 1997. His highly successful career includes memorable fights with Anthony Stephens, Keith Mullings, Fernando Vargas, Yory Boy Campas, Jermain Taylor and Arthur Abraham. For the last ten years Marquez has been featured on Showtime Championship Boxing and ShoBox telecasts.

Cynthia Conte is highly regarded for her outstanding podcast, The Best Women’s Boxing Show PERIOD, extensive work reporting for Ring Magazine, hosting Hollywood Fight Nights broadcasts and the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction events.

Ernesto Amador has worked for decades in the United States and Mexico on international boxing broadcasts and has become a staple at the sports’ biggest events with his exceptional reporting for his award-winning podcast ‘No Puedas Jugar Boxeo’. He will join Marco Antonio Barrera on the Spanish language broadcast.

Known as Boxing’s Crime Fighting Cutman for his work as homicide detective, Mike Rodriguez is a fixture in the corner of numerous world champions and top-rated contenders including Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia and Dmitry Bivol.

Remaining tickets for ‘Battle of the Best’, starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.

Los Angeles, CA (November 1, 2022) An outstanding Pay-Per-View undercard has been announced for ‘Battle of the Best’ headlined by the highly anticipated WBC Super Lightweight Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis (27-1, 23 KO’s), set for Saturday, November 26 and emanating from ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, just outside of Los Angeles, CA.

Presented and produced by Legendz Entertainment in association with Marv Nation, tickets for ‘Battle of the Best’, starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.

Zepeda vs. Prograis can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets on Saturday, November 26 beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. Fans can order the PPV stream on FITE TV at https://www.fite.tv/watch/zepeda-vs-prograis/2pc6z/ or on PPV.COM at https://www.ppv.com.

With the international boxing world witnessing extraordinary women’s world championship bouts throughout this year, the tremendous momentum continues as fast-rising female superstar Yokasta ‘Yoka’ Valle, (26-2, 9 KO’s), of San Jose, Costa Rica battles undefeated world champion Evelyn ‘La Princesita’ Bermudez, (17-0-1, 6 KOs), of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina for the WBC and WBO Super Flyweight World Titles over ten scheduled rounds.

Fighting in the junior middleweight division, undefeated contender, 2016 U.S. Olympian Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, (17-0, 13 KOs), of Cleveland, OH, who many experts believe will soon be the division’s upcoming king, faces his toughest opposition against upset minded, Dominican Juan Carlos Abreu, (25-6-1, 23 KOs) in a ten-round fight.

2020 Olympic Gold Medalist Bakhodir ‘The Big Uzbek’ Jalolov, (11-0, 11 KOs), standing 6’7”and considered the dominant heavyweight of the future, faces off against veteran Curtis Harper, (14-8, 9 KOs), of Jacksonville, FL over ten rounds.

In a special attraction super welterweight six rounder, boxing fans will see the ‘Son of a Legend’, sure-fire prospect Fernando Vargas Jr. (6-0, 6 KOs), open the Pay-Per-View against an opponent to be announced. The heavy-handed southpaw makes his return following a devastating first round knockout of Terrance Jarmon on May 14, 2022 at The Kia Forum in Los Angeles, CA.

The charismatic Yokasta Valle first achieved championship level success with a victory over Ana Victoria Polo in 2016 earning the IBF Atomweight World Title. Most recently she triumphantly returned home to San Jose, Costa Rica, defeating Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen and adding the WBO Minimumweight World Title to her collection. Fighting for the fourth time in 2022, Evelin Bermudez defended her IBF and WBO Junior Flyweight Titles successfully against Yairineth Altuve on July 23, 2022 in San Lorenzo, Argentina.

The 24-year-old all-action Charles Conwell hits The War Grounds ring on November 26 following a third-round knockout of Abraham Juarez Ramirez on June 2, 2022. Battle-tested veteran Juan Carlos Abreu is back in action following a second-round knockout of Emilio Julio on August 12, 2022. On October 29, 2021, Abreu traveled to the United Kingdom knocking out highly touted and undefeated Kazak prospect Tursynbay Kulakhmet in the seventh round.

Bakhodir Jalolov’s reputation as a future heavyweight champion has been strongly validated through his first eleven professional bouts all ending in knockout fashion. In his last start on June 10, 2022, he stopped Jack Mulowayi in the eighth round. This followed up a fifth-round stoppage of Kamil Sokolowski on March 18, 2022 in Dubai. At the 2020 Olympic Games, Jalolov defeated Richard Torrez in the final round to earn the Gold Medal in the Super Heavyweight Division. The confident Curtis Harper enters the battle with Jalolov following a dominant victory over previously unbeaten Christian Thun on July 9, 2022.

SAN DIEGO, CA (Oct. 26, 2022) – Ahead of their crossroads clash, former IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. (32-2-1, 15 KOs) and undefeated, rising lightweight division star William “El Camarón” Zepeda (26-0, 23 KOs) hosted a media workout at the BXNG CLUB in San Diego for their upcoming 12-round crossroads fight. The match is set to take place at the Pechanga Arena San Diego this Saturday, Oct. 29 on DAZN.

Also a part of the media workout, co-main event Alexis “Lex” Rocha (20-1, 13 KOs) will defend his NABO Welterweight title against hungry challenger from Tijuana, Mexico, Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round fight. Monterrey, Mexico’s Arely Mucino (31-3-2, 11 KOs) will challenge Chimba, Argentina’s World Champion Leonela Yudica (17-0-3) for the IBF Female Flyweight World Title in a 10-round match. Dallas, Texas’s Hector Valdez, Jr. (15-0, 8 KOs) will open the DAZN broadcast in a 10-round super bantamweight fight against Las Vegas, Nevada’s Max Ornelas (15-0-1, 5 KOs).The main event for Golden Boy Fight Night: Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda Prelims on the Golden Boy Boxing YouTube will be Jorge “El Niño” Chávez (3-0, 3 KOs) who will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight against Houston, Texas’s Adrian Leyva (3-3-2, 1 KO).

Here’s what the fighters had to say:
JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, FORMER IBF SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I know this fight is a really tough fight. It’s sink or swim. I’m a warrior – I have that in me and I’ll fight anyone. I want to fight the best. I want to always challenge myself.

“I’m always progressing – even my losses, I don’t look at them as losses. I look at them as lessons learned. Zepeda is one tough gunner, and I know he’s hungry for a title shot which will make this an incredible fight for me personally because he’s going to come forward and be aggressive.”

WILLIAM “EL CAMARÓN” ZEPEDA, UNDEFEATED SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I had a really great training camp. I know I have a complicated fight ahead of me but I am very motivated with an excellent preparation like always.

“I’m used to training at a high altitude [10,000 feet above sea level in Jiquipilco, Mexico]. We really enjoy training there because we are very focused on training.

“I was very excited when I got the call for this fight. I’ve always wanted these types of opportunities. I’ve trained really hard for this, and this fight won’t be the exception. We are very concentrated and focused because we know this is a big opportunity.”

ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA, NABO WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I’m a quiet guy, but when I go in the ring I let my hands do the talking. I just love what I do. A lot of people have turned me down. A lot of big names, but that’s just the way it is. I have “Ricky” Perez in front of me and I have a job to do.

“My whole mentality is just different since my loss to Rashidi Ellis. It’s a kill or be killed mentality inside the ring now. I know my opponent will come in very determined, and very motivated to win.”

JESUS “RICKY” PEREZ, WELTERWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“This is a fight that we were destined to fight in. We have prepared very hard for this fight. Everyone will see the results from our preparation come fight night. I hope that fans get to see a big performance from the both of us. I feel very proud to represent the people of Tijuana and San Diego since I train here. I am going to feel right at home. This isn’t the first time I am the underdog, and I’ve given my fair share of surprises as the b-side.”

ARELY MUCINO, FEMALE FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I am happy because fight week is finally here and grateful to God for allowing me to live out this crazy dream. The emotions are building up, and I just want it to be Saturday already.

“Fans can expect for me to put on a show. Everyone knows that female boxers get to work starting from the first round, and this fight won’t be the exception. This is Mexico vs. Argentina, and I will proudly represent my country’s flag. This fight is dedicated with much love to my father, as I will continue the legacy that he left behind for us to continue.”

LEONELA YUDICA, CURRENT IBF FEMALE FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:
“I have successfully defended my title 10 times in Argentina. I am very excited for this fight because I have long awaited for the opportunity to fight internationally. Not many people know who I am, but after this fight they will.

“She is a Mexican fighter, so she will come into the ring like a tough warrior. I am going to have in front of me a female boxer with tremendous experience and a former world champion. This is going to be a tough fight, equally in the physical and technical side. But I am calm because I have prepared for this fight.”

Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN worldwide. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.

Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #DiazJrZepeda

Los Angeles, CA (October 17, 2022) Tickets are Now On-Sale for the highly anticipated ‘Battle of the Best’ showdown between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis (27-1, 23 KO’s), set for Saturday, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, just outside of Los Angeles, CA.

Presented by Marv Nation and produced by Legendz Entertainment, tickets starting at $39 for the  WBC Super Lightweight World Championship may be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.

                                                —————————————————-

This can’t-miss matchup of two elite boxing stars in their prime will be available on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets throughout the US and Canada. More details on where to order the PPV telecast will be communicated in the coming weeks.

Additional information on ‘The Battle of the Best’  live event will be announced shortly.

Los Angeles, CA (October 12, 2022) A huge crowd of Los Angeles media attended the Kick-Off Press Conference in Downtown Los Angeles to formally announce ‘The Battle of the Best’, the WBC Super Lightweight World Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis, (27-1, 23 KOs). They were joined by Zepeda’s trainer Rene Zepeda and Prograis’ manager Sam Katkovski. The press conference was moderated by the voice of Southern California sports, Beto Duran.

Presented by Marv Nation and produced by Legendz Entertainment, Zepeda vs. Prograisis set for Saturday, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA and broadcast live on Pay-Per-View. Tickets to this sensational clash will go On-Sale This Friday, October 14 at 12:00 p.m. PT online at AXS.com.

Below are quotes from the fighters;

Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda

“Both of us are in our prime. This is #1 vs. #2, the top two fighters in the division. We don’t get to see that very often nowadays in boxing and this shows it’s going to be a great fight. Both of us have a lot of knockouts, true punching power. I’m getting ready for hell because I know it’s going to be that type of fight. It’s a really exciting fight for the fans at the War Grounds and those watching on pay-per-view.”

“There’s not a lot of need for trash talk between us. We’ve both done our work in the ring and boxing fans know what type of fight to expect. I went through hell already with Ivan Baranchyk, Jose Ramirez and Jose Pedraza. Regis hits hard, he’s clever inside the ring and he’s a southpaw. It has all the ingredients for a great fight for the fans.”

“I wasn’t surprised at all that we got this fight. We both wanted it, we both want to become world champions. Both of us need this title, we’re 33 years old and in our prime. Whoever wins this title will have a life changing experience.”

“It’s been a long time since I’ve fought in Los Angeles and I’m looking forward to seeing a packed War Grounds on November 26 for another classic fight at this iconic venue.”

Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis

“I used to live in Los Angeles so I’m very comfortable here. I just can’t wait for this fight and to become a world champion. Zepeda’s a real good fighter and I already know what he’s coming with. This is a dream come true for me because I wanted to stay at 140 and become a two-time world champion. My last three fights were against ‘okay’ opposition but this is the fight to show that I’m elite. He’s a killer and I give him all the respect but I’m going to do my thing on November 26.”

“Los Angeles is one of my favorite cities in the world. To come here and fight at The War Grounds to become a two-time world champion is historic for me.”

“I’m not surprised at all this fight is happening. He wanted the fight, I wanted the fight. We both want to be champions. He fought for the belt and I thought he beat Ramirez.”

“We are two killers, I have a lot of power in both hands, he has a lot of power in both hands. And that’s what makes for an interesting fight, #1 vs. #2. No one knows who’s going to win, it’s a real 50/50 fight.”

                                                —————————————————-

This can’t-miss matchup of two elite boxing stars in their prime will be available on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets throughout the US and Canada. More details on where to order the PPV telecast will be communicated in the coming weeks.

Additional information on ‘The Battle of the Best’, including the media credential application process will be announced shortly.

LOS ANGELES, OCTOBER 12 – A recharged Regis Prograis insists he will not repeat the big mistake he made the last time he was world champion – taking it for granted.

The vacant WBC world super lightweight belt is up for grabs when Prograis collides with Jose Zepeda in a mouth-watering fight on Saturday, November 26 in Carson, California.

Prograis won the WBA strap in 2019 after stopping Kiryl Relikh and admits his ascent to the top of the division was “easy” and the significance was lost on him.

But the 33-year-old’s defeat to Josh Taylor in their huge unification bout, later that year, and his long wait to regain another shot, has made him change his ways.

And should he get his hands on the world title again at the Dignity Health Sports Park, next month, then the man known as ‘Rougarou’ has promised to savour every second of it.

“I feel like I’m totally different now because when I was the world champion – I’m going to be honest with you – I didn’t cherish it,” Prograis told Probellum.com.

“It was easy to me. I’m not even gonna lie, it was easy to me.

“At the time I was preparing to fight for the belt I went to L.A. and for my first two weeks there we had parties at the house and all kinds of stuff, and this is me fighting for my world championship!

“But it was just it was easy to me, and I didn’t cherish it and then it was taken away from me just like that, real fast.

“So now, I feel like I’m a different fighter, my mindset is way different. The first time, it was easy. I just did it. It was easy. I was world champion, number one in the world and it was nothing to me. I didn’t even care about it. And this time it has been hard, to scratch my way back to the top to even get to the belt. So now I will cherish that even more. And now I don’t do all those things I used to.”

The experienced Zepeda (35-2, 27 KOs) has twice challenged for world titles and meets Prograis on a five-fight winning streak, that includes the 2020 Fight of the Year.

Zepeda and Ivan Baranchyk both hit the canvas four times inside five rounds that night and while Prograis respects his opponent, he has warned ‘Chon’ he won’t let him off the hook.

“I’m not Ivan Baranchyk, when I drop people, I will finish them off,” Prograis declared.

“I also have a higher IQ and I feel like I have bigger punching power, too. And then I’m a southpaw so I’m slick. Baranchyk was there to be hit.

“Ivan didn’t really have too much defence but me, I’m a whole different monster. Zepeda has never seen nothing like me before. But Zepeda, he is good, he gets dropped, he gets back up and he does good.”

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Los Angeles, CA (October 10, 2022) Two of Boxing’s Best 140lb. Fighters in the World, Top Rated Contenders, #1 ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (35-2, 27 KO’s), of LaPuente, CA and #2 ranked, former World Champion Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis, (27-1, 23 KOs) of New Orleans, LA will battle for the prestigious WBC Super Lightweight World Championship over 12-rounds on Saturday, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA and broadcast live on Pay-Per-View, it was announced today.

Presented by MarvNation and produced by Legendz Entertainment, Tickets Will Go On-Sale This Friday, October 14 at 12:00 p.m. PT online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, CA 90746.

This can’t-miss matchup of two elite boxing stars in their prime will be available on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets throughout the US and Canada. More details on where to order the PPV telecast will be communicated in the coming weeks. 

“This is one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing,” said Marvin Rodriguez, Founder and CEO of MarvNation Promotions. “Zepeda vs. Prograis promises action from the opening bell, and the winner will not only earn the WBC title, but will also be considered as the best 140-pounder in the world. It’s an honor to bring this event to fans in Southern California, and we look forward to announcing the undercard in the coming days.”

Stated Zepeda, “I’m really excited about this fight finally happening. This is not like other fights. This is the top two in the 140lb. division, fights like this you don’t see in boxing anymore. This is a real fight and the best part is that the fans are aware of this.” 

“I’ve been waiting for this fight for three years,” said Prograis. “I was a champion three years ago, and I stayed at 140 so that I can fulfill my goal and be a two-time champion at 140. I’ve been waiting long for this opportunity, and I believe November 26 is when I will unleash my three years of frustration. I could have gone to 147 and got more money, but I always wanted to be a two-time champion. I changed some things around, I got a nutritionist for my last fight. I am very grateful for this opportunity to come again, and I will not let it slip.”

“The Super Lightweight Championship of the World, a division of greatness, could not find a better match than Zepeda vs Prograis,” said Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the World Boxing Council. “Legends like Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar De La Hoya, Kostya Tszyu and Floyd Mayweather just to name a few, have proudly held the WBC green and gold belt in this division. Both fighters are in their prime and ready to give the boxing world a memorable thriller as both have participated in fights of the year throughout their careers respectively.”

In recent years, Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda has stamped his fights as must-see; full of non-stop action combined with his fierce Mexican warrior spirit. On October 3, 2020, Zepeda defeated former world champion Ivan Baranchyk in an epic battle for the ages and the consensus ‘Fight of the Year’. The fearless Zepeda would stop Baranchyk in the fifth round in an ESPN broadcasted clash that saw each fighter rise from the canvas four times. Following a ten-round decision over perennial contender Hank Lundy on May 22, 2021, Zepeda would once again validate his remarkable reputation with a stunning first round knockout of top-rated contender Josue Vargas on October 30, 2021 at Madison Square Garden.

Zepeda first challenged for a world title against WBC Champion Jose Ramirez on February 10, 2019, losing a hotly contested 12-round majority decision.

Former WBA 140lb. World Champion Prograis has been dominant over the last two years in the division. Following a majority decision loss in London, England for the undisputed division crown and World Boxing Super Series Championship against Josh Taylor on October 26, 2019, the only blemish on a remarkable ten-year run, Prograis has relentlessly stopped each of his next three opponents leading up to the Zepeda world title fight.

Most recently, Prograis showcased his extraordinary power, traveling to Dubai stopping Tyrone McKenna in the sixth round on March 19, 2022. Previously, the exciting southpaw knocked out Ivan Redkach in the sixth round on April 17, 2021 and Juan Heraldez in the third round on October 30, 2021. Remarkably Prograis did not lose a round in any of the three contests.

Prograis won his first world title defeating WBA 140lb. World Champion Kiryl Relikh on April 27, 2019 with a brilliant performance capped by a sixth-round knockout.

More information and additional fights will be announced shortly. Details on media credentials will also be forthcoming.

NEW YORK–The weigh-in fight was more competitive then the actual fight. Jose Zepeda annihilated Josue Vargas in the opening frame of their junior welterweight fight at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Zepeda landed a short left to the head that froze Vragas, who immediately fell face first on the canvas. Vargas tried to get up and then crashed into the bottom rope. Vargas did eventually get to his feet but then ate a devastating barrage in the corner and the fight was stopped at 1:45.

Zepeda, 139.6 lbs of Long Beach, CA is 35-2 with 30 knockouts. Vragas, 139 lbs of Bronx, NY is 19-2.

JOSE ZEPEDA

“I was ready. I was 100 percent ready, and I told him in the press conference there’s levels to this. He was the one who wanted to fight me. I just accepted the fight, and it showed today that boxing is not a game in there. There’s levels to this.”

“I told him, and he probably knew I hit hard. I don’t think he recovered after that shot.”

“After the way he went down, I didn’t think {he’d recover}. He probably was going to head up, but he was going to be wobbly on his feet, and that’s what happened and I was able to finish him.”

“I’m 32 years old, and I’m in my prime. I want the WBC world title and all the belts, to be honest. I’m ready for it. I showed today I’m ready for the WBC world title.”

VARGAS

“He caught me with a good left hand, and I tried to recover, but I think I got up too fast. That’s what happened. Overall, I’m OK. I’m good. I’m healthy. We’re not stopping from here. It’s on to the next.”

“I learned from my disqualification loss, and now I learned from my second loss.”

“It’s part of the sport. The greatest athletes in boxing have losses. I’m not ashamed of myself. I’ll be back stronger, for sure.”

Sultan Knocks down Caraballo 4 times; Decisions Caraballo

Jonas Sulton pulled off an upset victory as he dropped previously perfect Carlos Caraballo and won a 10-round unanimous decision in a bantamweight fight.

In round two, Sultan dropped Caraballo with a flurry to the head. In round three, Sultan sent Caraballo to the deck again with a left right to the face. In round four, Caraballo came back to rock Sultan several times.

Sultan came back in round six as he sent Caraballo to the canvas with a left hook. In round eight, Caraballo began to rock Sultan with some hard left hooks and hurt his opponent several times. Sultan began to swell under his right eye, In round nine, Sultan seemed to have sealed the fight when he floored Caraballo with a hard counter right.

Sultan landed 92 of 480 punches; Caraballo was 137 of 352.

Sultan, 117.6 lbs of the Philippines won by scores of 94-93 on all cards and is now 18-5. Caraballo, 117.6 lbs of Puerto Rico is 14-1.

“This is boxing. This is war. And I came to win tonight. Caraballo is a tough man, but I wanted this one,” said Sultan

Carlos Jackson pounded out a eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Guzman in a junior featherweight bout.

Jackson landed 79 of 385 punches; Guzman 93 of 352.

Jackson, 123 lbs of Atlanta, GA won by scores of 78-74 and 77-75; Guzman won a card 77-75.

Jackson is now 18-1. Guzman, 123 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 24-2.

In a toe-to-toe war, Mathew Gonzalez and Dakota Linger stood chest to chest and wailed away on each other, and the six-round junior welterweight contest ended in a majority draw.

The two landed many hard blows, which included a sixth round that had the crowd on their feet as Linger made a furious stand and took the final round that got him the draw by scores of 58-56 for Gonzalez and 57-57 twice.

Gonzalez landed 150 of 522 punches; Linger was 122 of 509.

Gonzalez, 143 lbs of Ridgewood, NY is 12-0-1. Linger, 141.8 lbs of Buckhannon, WV is 12-5-3.

In a spirited and at times testy six-round welterweight bout, Pablo Valdez remained undefeated with a majority decision over Alejandro Martinez.

Valdez, 148.4 lbs of New York won by scores of 59-55 twice and 57-57 to go to 5-0. Martinez, 148.6 of East Los Angeles is 2-2-1.

Jahi Tucker stopped Jorge Rodrigo Sosa in round two of their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

Tucker hurt Sosa several times during the fight and finished off with a hard combination in the corner that forced referee Shawn Clark to stop the bout at 2:18.

Tucker, 147.6 lbs of Deer Park, NY is 5-0 with three knockouts. Sosa, 145.2 lbs is 3-3.

Ray Cuadrado won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Land in a junior lightweight contest.

Cuadrado, 129.6 lbs of Ridgewood, NY won by scores of 49=0-36 and 39-37 and is now 2-0. Land, 129.4 lbs of Dallas, TX is 1-4-1.

Kasir Goldston remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Marc Misiura in a junior welterweight fight.

In the final round, Misiura was docked a point for an intentional headbutt to the mouth.

Goldston, 142 lbs of Albany, NY won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 4-0. Mislura, 142.2 lbs of Scranton, PA is 2-2.

NOTES—During the Caraballo-Sultan fight, the roof of the Hulu Theater began to shake due to a sold out concert featuring Harry Styles that was playing in the big room at Madison Square Garden.