Maxi Hughes won a 12-round majority decision over Kid Galahad in a lightweight bout.

Hughes, 134 lbs of Rossington, ENG won by scores of 116-111, 114-113 and 114-114 and is now 29-5-1. Galahad, 134.7 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 28-3.

Terri Harper won the WBA Super Welterweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Hannah Rankin.

In round two, Rankin was cut over the left eye from a punch.

Harper, 152 lbs of Denaby was a former 130 lb. world champion won by scores of 98-92 twice and 97-93 and is 13-1-1. Rankin, 153.4 lbs of Glasgow, SCO is 12-6.

Solomon Dacres remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Ariel Esteban Bracamonte in a heavyweight bout.

Dacres, 229.4 lbs of Birmingham, ENG won by scores of 99-90 on all cards and is now 5-0. Bracamonte, 305.5 lbs of Cordoba, ARG is 11-10.

Cyrus Pattinson stopped Jorick Luisetto in the sixth round of their 10-round welterweight bout.

In round six, Pattinson hurt Luisetto with a left hand. Two punches later, he sent Luisetto to the canvas, Pattinson continued to onslaught by landing some hard body shots that were followed up by a left and the fight was stopped at 1:59 as Luisetto fell to the canvas.

Pattinson, 146.4 lbs of Almwick, ENG is 5-0 with three knockouts. Luisetto, 147 lbs of France is 12-5.

Cheavon Clarke remained undefeated by stopping Marcos Nicolas Karalitzky in a eight-round cruiserweight bout.

Clarke dominated the fight and stopped Karalitzky with a barrage of punches at 2:21 of round four.

Clarke, 199.3 lbs of Gravesend, ENG is 3-0 with three knockouts. Karalitzky, 197.5 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 7-6-2.

In a battle of undefeated super welterweights, Junaid Bostan stopped Anas Isari on the final round of their six-round bout.

In the sixth round, Bostan turned up the heat and the fight was stopped after a big flurry on the ropes at 2:38.

Bostan, 154.9 lbs of Rotherham, ENG is 3-0 with three knockouts. Isari, 153.4 lbs of Brussels, BEL is 2-1.

Rhiannon Dixon remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Edina Kiss in a lightweight bout.

Dixon, 134.8 lbs of Wigan, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is 4-0. Kiss, 134.4 lbs of Budapest, Hungary is 15-16.

Mohammed Sameer won a four-round decision over Dale Arrowsworth in a middleweight bout.

Sameer, 158.8 lbs of Peterborough won by a 40-36 score and is now 5-0.

First bell: 5.15pm, live on Before The Bell
 
4 x 3 mins Middleweight contest
 
Mohammed Sameer (158.8lbs)     vs.     Dale Arrowsmith (159.1lbs)
Peterborough                                             Hyde
 
Followed by
 
6 x 2 mins Lightweight contest
 
Rhiannon Dixon (134.8lbs)   vs.     Edina Kiss (134.4lbs)
Wigan                                                Budapest, Hungary
 
Followed by
 
6 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
 
Junaid Bostan (154.9lbs)      vs.     Anas Isarti (153.6lbs)
Rotherham                                         Brussels, Belgium
 
LIVE ON DAZN FROM 7PM
 
10 x 3 mins Vacant WBO Continental Welterweight title
 
Cyrus Pattinson (146.4lbs)   vs.     Jorick Luisetto (147lbs)
Alnwick                                              Echirolles, Isere, France
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Cruiserweight contest
 
Cheavon Clarke (199.3lbs)    vs.     Marcos Nicolas Karalitzky (197.5lbs)
Gravesend                                         Buenos Aires, Argentina
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
 
Solomon Dacres (229.4lbs)   vs.     Ariel Esteban Bracamonte (305.5lbs)
Birmingham                                        La Cumbre, Cordoba, Argentina
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBA and IBO World Super Welterweight titles
 
Hannah Rankin (153.4lbs)    vs.     Terri Harper (152lbs)
Glasgow                                            Denaby
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins IBO World Lightweight title
 
Maxi Hughes (134.4lbs)                 vs.     Kid Galahad (134.7lbs)
Rossington                                                 Sheffield

Maxi Hughes (defends IBO World Lightweight title against Kid Galahad): Only Barry knows if he’s the same after that KO. Speaking to Terri about it, she had the same with Alicia Baumgardner on the same night, but she’s exorcised those demons in March by getting back in the ring. I spoke to Tony Bellew, and he said, no-one gets to see if they have exorcised the demons until they get back through the ropes and get hit on the chin by eight ounce gloves. There was genuine compassion there, no-one likes to see a fellow fighter go down as heavy as that and see paramedics rush to the ring. We never think it’s going to happen we just want to get in, fight and get home to our families. 
 
I don’t put pressure on myself in terms of ‘get through this fight and the next fight is massive’. It’s the way I live my life. I’ve got two young kids that I adore, and being a full-time boxer means I am around them more, that’s where the pressure comes because I want to keep living that life. What comes next will happen, nothing is guaranteed, I just want to keep being a full-time fighter and the best Dad to my kids.
 
The form and momentum are with me, but I am underdog again and that’s something I am used to, it’s just how I approach things regardless of what people think, the bookies think; we’re confident as a team in what we’re doing and that’s the most important thing – getting my hand raised and hearing ‘and still’.  
 
Kid Galahad (moves up to Lightweight to challenge Hughes): I always put big pressure on myself in every fight. I’ve got the underdog mentality, every fight is do or die and I must do a job on Maxi Hughes, and I will. This new weight I feel fresher, I’m not struggling, and I feel great.
 
With the Kiko Martinez loss, that’s boxing, it can happen, I went straight back into the gym. You (Eddie) said to me to go on holiday and have a break, but I had to get in the gym and clear my mind, think about how it went wrong, I know what I did wrong, we’ve adjusted it and on Saturday night we’ll see that.
 
Maxi’s mate Josh got KO’d by Mauricio Lara and he came back to win a World title, so it depends how you are built. I think if Maxi got KO’d the way I did, he would have been finished but I am a different gravy to him, and on Saturday we’ll see.
 
It’s not mind games, it’s the truth. I got KO’d by Kiko, he asked his trainer to pull him out of a fight because he had a bloody nose. That’s the truth, I’m not sugar-coating it, I would rather go out on my shield, that’s the difference in our mentalities.
 
Stefy Bull (manager of Maxi Hughes, trainer/manager of Terri Harper): Maxi has probably had the best rise in British boxing over the last few years, very unexpected with some fantastic wins and fights he wasn’t meant to win. The bookies have him as the underdog again and he relishes that. Maxi has been training for Barry for nearly 12 weeks, but we’ve had things thrown our way like the Ryan Garcia fight or the Jorge Linares fight, but Maxi has just stayed focused on Barry. 
 
They might be counter punchers, but I don’t see this being a boring fight at all. They both have a lot of pride, it’s a Yorkshire derby, there’s a bit of needle between them, and I am looking forward to it as a fan, not just as Maxis’ manager. It’s intriguing with Barry coming up a couple of weights, but Maxi is in his prime, he’s not showing any signs of decline and he hasn’t dropped a round in his last two fights. A confident fighter is very hard to beat, Maxi is a big strong Lightweight, this is his division, and he’s not going to want to let the title go because a Maxi Hughes win does warrant a super-fight next that could be life changing. He is the easiest fighter to manage because he just says yes, or yes but can you get me a bit more money. He will fight anyone, and I think the fans are in for a fantastic night.
 
I think Barry is going to be better at Lightweight, I really do. Dominic is one of the best trainers in the world, he knows what he’s doing, and Barry will be rejuvenated, stronger and full of energy at 135lbs. I’ve been with fighters that struggle to make weight, Terri is one of them but the McDonnell twins, Robbie Barrett; we’re in a weight-making sport and some people that aren’t in boxing don’t realize how fatigued fighters come but they are still having to grind it out because they have that belt. So, I think Barry will be better, but Maxi is ready for that, and it’s going to be a better fight for it.
 
Dominic Ingle (trainer of Kid Galahad): I don’t think four pounds was going to be enough headroom for Barry, and a lot of fighters that move up from nine stone, they may have one fight at Super-Featherweight, but they tend to move up to Lightweight. It was always a struggle but when you are in the World champion position, you cannot really turn down fights as that belt is your bargaining power. Kiko still has fight in him, he proved that against JW when he broke his jaw, he’s a massive puncher, and Barry just got caught, and the resistance to the shots just wasn’t there.
 
Barry has never had a problem taking a shot, so I do believe it was down to making weight. So, I think we will see a different fighter on Saturday, a more hydrated and powerful Kid Galahad, back to his usual ways. Maxi is a good fighter and he’s come good the last couple of years and it’s his title to defend, but we’re here to take it and hopefully we do.
 
He can’t take any chances or leave anything to doubt, he’s got to put it on Maxi and leave no doubt. Maxi is a good boxer, he likes to move and can fight when he has to, but it’s the last chance saloon for Barry and he has to win and make a good impression if he wants the big fights at Lightweight. There’s pride on the line, they both have to win this, defeat for either of them is probably the end of the road.
 
Hannah Rankin (defending the WBA and IBO World Super-Welterweight titles against Terri Harper): I don’t believe Terri is big enough to be at this weight ad she’s going to find that out on Saturday. I’m a true 154lber, WBA and IBO World champion and I’m building my strength and development as a fighter, so I am looking forward to putting on a show. 
 
Moving up so many weights, I don’t think she can be the same because things change when you add weight to your frame. I’m expecting the best version of Terri though, she’s a former World champion for a reason, I have a lot of respect for her and her team, but I don’t think she’ll be the same at 154.
 
There are some very exciting fights out there and a unification with Tasha Jonas is on the cards, that’s one of those things that just fuels my fore for the fight, I only see my arm being raised but those fights will have to wait, my focus is on Terri.
 
Terri Harper (moves up to challenge Rankin for the WBA and IBO titles): I’m excited, this is the first camp that I can say I’ve really enjoyed, not just because of the weight but everything else. I feel I have my chance to become World champion again, I’ve got the fire burning and I’m hungry for it and I know getting the win at the weekend will open even more doors, so I am excited.
 
People don’t realize that I walk around at 10/11/12st, so me cutting weight to get to Super-Featherweight, that was reckless, and I was fighting World class fighters under fueled, tired, and unhappy. So, when we got this chance to go up the weights, I just knew I would feel comfortable at the weight and go in there knowing I can handle myself.
 
I’ve matured as a fighter; I’ve experienced a lot of things. Hannah thinks I am quiet, timid, and shy but I’m here to show that I do have a voice and it’s not Stefy on my twitter, I can handle myself.
 
Cyrus Pattinson (faces Jorick Luisetto for the IBO Continental Welterweight title): I’m more than happy to step up, my camps haven’t been smooth sailing recently with fights falling through. So, this opportunity has come at the right time for me, and I believe that that it wouldn’t have come if I wasn’t ready, so I am going to get that title on Saturday.
 
I want these fights and these titles. I’ve been sparring 16 rounds in the gym with bigger lads, so I know that I am more than capable. All my years with Team GB, I’ve always been prepared to fight anyone and it’s onwards and upwards from here, I don’t want to stay in a comfort zone at all, and this fight has got me switched on.
 
Solomon Dacres (fights Dominic Akinlade over ten rounds): The Sokolowski fight was great, especially looking at what he’s done since then, and my last fight in July was a good test too. I just need to stay active; we’re moving up to ten rounders and kicking on to the next level, I’m being let off the leash. 
 
I’m not here to hang about, I’ve got great stamina for a Heavyweight, and I train very hard, so let’s go to the ten rounders and push on to bigger fights. That’s what we’re in boxing for, to win titles, so let’s go and get those title fights. The next 12-18 months I feel we’re going to be knocking on the door for them.
 
Cheavon Clarke (fights Marcos Karalitzky): We’re here to step up, not hide behind mediocre fighter, I want to show the people what the excitement is about. You need experience, I don’t come to KO people but as and when it comes, I will take the opportunity. I know that you (Eddie) will navigate me as I need to be, and I’ll handle whoever is in front of me.
 
Junaid Bostan (2-0 and makes his Matchroom debut): I said to you in Sheffield, Eddie, get your pen and paper out as you will be signing me after this. I’m not surprised to be here, but I am privileged. I’ve got big things that I am planning, and I am going to make the most of every opportunity. I’m looking to put on a big performance on Saturday and carry on with my career. He’ll be 2-1 on Saturday night, I will do as I am told as I’m in good hands with my team.
 
Mohammed Sameer (4-0 Middleweight): I got the call last Friday from my manager Lee Eaton, I got tickets on Monday evening, and we’ve already sold 150, so we’ve got a lot of people coming on Saturday and they will make plenty of noise. I’ve always dreamed of being on cards like this so it’s a dream come true and I’m ready to perform on Saturday. 
 
I’ve got an exciting style, I come to fight, and I am going to show everyone what I am about. 
 
Rhiannon Dixon (Anthony Crolla-trained Lightweight, fighting Edina Kiss): When Anthony put that tweet out (about working hard) I thought ‘get the violins out!’ I’m the one making the weight, all he’s bothered about is his hair! I think it will be a good learning fight for me. She’s got a lot of experience, she’s been in with Amanda Serrano, Mikaela Mayer, so I am looking to put on a good performance.
 
We’re looking at stepping up in. 2023 and hopefully fighting for some titles, it’s an exciting time and going over to Spain last time out and dealing with that fight, I think it’s put me in good stead.

Maxi Hughes has told Kid Galahad to prepare for life after boxing as he defends his IBO World Lightweight title at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham on Saturday night, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

TICKETS ARE ON SALE FROM THE MOTORPOINT ARENA WEBSITE

Hughes (25-2-2, 5 KOs) defends his title for the second time, after widely outpointing fellow Brit Ryan Walsh in March in his first defence, following his shutout win over the dangerous Giovanni Straffon to land the belt last September.
 
‘Maximus’ is riding the crest of a wave, unbeaten since November 2019 and enjoying the ‘Cinderella Man’ status that has come with his impressive run of form, that has seen him be linked with big time battles against Californian star Ryan Garcia and former World ruler Jorge Linares.
 
The Rossington man has put those thoughts to one side for this South Yorkshire derby though, with former IBF Featherweight ruler Galahad () stepping up two weights in his ring return and looking for an immediate return to boxing’s top table – but his 32 year old opponent says Saturday night could be the end of the line for the Ingle Gym slickster.
 
“I hope he has a plan in place for life after boxing because after Saturday night he’s got nowhere to go,” said Hughes.
 
“He was Featherweight champion, and he was looking to go to Super-Feather, so I am surprised that he’s jumping up two weights to face me. It’s a high-profile fight, he’s been IBF champion and they usually regard their champions highly, so they may rank him highly, so beating KG should improve my ranking. It would be nice to get a top five ranking with them and move towards to a bigger fight. It’s the same every time for me, get this one won, and a bigger fight could be next.
 
“I don’t take boxing personally, this is my full time job and that’s where my mind is at. He’s in the way of me providing for my family. I’ the underdog and I love that. He was a World champion in his last fight so he’s a high-calibre opponent, that’s really getting the juices flowing. 
 
“I have faith in my ability and where I am in my team. I’m not one for bold predictions – I just want a win, however it comes, and I believe I am going to get it.”
 
On a stacked undercard, Denaby Main’s Terri Harper (12-1-1, 6 KOs) leaps up in weight to challenge Scotland’s Hannah Rankin (12-5, 3 KOs) for her IBO and WBA Super-Welterweight World Titles in an intriguing England vs. Scotland clash.
 
Former IBO and WBC Super-Featherweight World Champion Harper lost her titles at the hands of the USA’s Alycia Baumgardner on the undercard of Galahad vs. Martinez last year before landing the WBA Intercontinental Lightweight Title against Yamila Belen Abellaneda in March.
 
Rankin captured gold by decisioning Maria Lindberg over 10 rounds at the Tottenham Hotspur FC Banqueting Hall in November 2021 before defending her belts against Mexico’s Alejandra Ayala at The SSE Hydro, Glasgow in May.
 
Birmingham Heavyweight prospect Solomon Dacres (4-0, 1 KO) meets Dominic Akinlade (9-3-1, 4 KOs) over ten rounds, former Team GB Olympian Cheavon Clarke (2-0, 2 KOs) looks to maintain his perfect start to life in the Cruiserweight division against Argentina’s Marcos Nicolas Karalitzky (7-5-2, 2 KOs), Alnwick Welterweight talent Cyrus Pattinson (4-0, 2 KOs) has his fifth fight in the paid ranks, new Matchroom Super-Welterweight signing Junaid Bostan (2-0, 2 KOs) aims to make it three knockouts from three fights, Mansfield Super-Bantamweight prospect Nico Leivars (2-0-1) returns to action after his technical draw in Sheffield and Wigan Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (5-0) fights for the first time under the STN Sports banner.

Leigh Wood will defend his WBA Featherweight World Title against Mauricio Lara at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Saturday September 24, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

Wood (26-2, 16 KOs) memorably stopped Michael Conlan in the 12^th and final round of his epic first defence of the WBA 126lbs title back in March, knocking the Irishman out of the ring in brutal fashion to end their Fight of the Year battle.

‘Leigh-thal’ was heavily dropped in the opening round and looked to be heading towards his third loss in the pros before brilliantly fighting back to earn a stunning win that will be talked about for many years to come.

After a fight with WBA ‘Super’ Champion Leo Santa Cruz failed to transpire, in an incredibly gutsy move, Wood has chosen to prove himself against one of the most feared knockout artists in world boxing.

Lara (24-2-1, 17 KOs) floored and ruthlessly finished Josh Warrington in a sensational upset behind closed doors at The SSE Arena, Wembley in February 2021, ending the IBF Featherweight World Champion’s unbeaten record

‘Bronco’ rematched Warrington in front of a sold-out Headingley Stadium in Leeds seven months later, but a nasty cut over the left eye of the Mexican in round two caused by an accidental clash of heads resulted in the contest ending in a technical draw.

The power-punching 24-year-old blitzed Emilio Sanchez in three rounds earlier this year on the undercard of Roman Gonzalez vs. Julio Cesar Martinez in another destructive show of brute force to put the 126lbs division on notice.

Rossington’s IBO Lightweight title holder Maxi Hughes (25-5-2, 5 KOs) aims to continue his incredible run of form when he takes on Sheffield’s former IBF Featherweight World Champion Kid Galahad (28-2, 17 KOs) in a Yorkshire derby.

‘Maximus’, who is undefeated since November 2019, landed the IBO crown with a shutout points win over dangerous Mexican Jovanni Straffon in September last year before making a successful first defence against Ryan Walsh in March.

Galahad will be looking to return to winning ways up at Lightweight after suffering a shock knockout loss to Spanish veteran Kiko Martinez in what was supposed to be a routine maiden defence of his IBF title at the Sheffield Arena in November 2021.

Denaby Main’s Terri Harper (12-1-1, 6 KOs) leaps up in weight to challenge Scotland’s Hannah Rankin (12-5, 3 KOs) for her IBO and WBA Super-Welterweight World Titles in an intriguing England vs. Scotland clash.

Former IBO and WBC Super-Featherweight World Champion Harper lost her titles at the hands of the USA’s Alycia Baumgardner on the undercard of Galahad vs. Martinez last year before landing the WBA Intercontinental Lightweight Title against Yamila Belen Abellaneda in March.

Rankin captured gold by decisioning Maria Lindberg over 10 rounds at the Tottenham Hotspur FC Banqueting Hall in November 2021 before defending her belts against Mexico’s Alejandra Ayala at The SSE Hydro, Glasgow in May.

“I maybe have a handful of fights left and I want them to be my biggest,” said Wood. “I want to be tested. I’m filling arenas now and I want to keep that momentum going. Every fight should be a step forward, not backwards. Mauricio Lara is dangerous but high risk high reward, I’m confident I can do what Josh Warrington couldn’t do and get the job done.”
 
“I’m very excited,” said Lara. “This is the opportunity that I have worked so hard for and I am not going to miss it. I am aware that Leigh Wood is a great fighter, but no one is going to take away the possibility of me becoming a World Champion. I’m going to England for the third time and it’s like I’m fighting at home.”

“This is an unbelievable fight and Leigh Wood has massive cojones for stepping up to the plate again in Nottingham,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Last time out he gave us one of the most dramatic fights for many years and fans can expect all the drama again on September 24. It’s a huge card with Terri Harper stepping up the divisions attempting to become a two division champion against Hannah Rankin and a brilliant Yorkshire derby for the IBO title between Maxi Hughes and Kid Galahad with lots more to be announced. Expect another incredible atmosphere at the Nottingham Arena on September 24.”
 
“This is an all-action card from top to bottom and a great way to kick off our UK autumn schedule,” said Joe Markowski, EVP at DAZN Group. “Wood vs. Lara will be an absolute humdinger of a fight and in Hughes vs. Galahad and Rankin vs. Harper we have two fights that are worthy of headlining shows by themselves. Do not miss this fight night! Live and exclusive, on DAZN.”
 
Tickets for Wood vs. Lara are priced at £40, £60, £100, £150 and £250 (VIP)

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Thursday August 25. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Motorpoint Arena Nottingham from midday on Friday August 26.

Kiko Martinez became a two-weight world champion as he won the IBF Featherweight champion as he scored a shocking 6th round knockout of defending champion Kid Galahad at The Sheffield Arena in Sheffield, England

In round three, Martinez started to bleed over his right eye. In round five, Martinez dropped Galahad with a big overhand right. Martinez landed the first punch of round six just seconds into the stanza on the face of Galahad, who fell straight on his back and the fight was over at six seconds.

Martinez, 125.3 lbs of Alicante, SPA is 43-10-2 with 30 knockouts. Galahad, 125.5 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 28-2.

Baumgardner Stops Harper in 4; Wins WBC Super Featherweight Title

Alycia Baumgardner scored a sensation 4th round stoppage over Terri Harper to win the WBC Super Featherweight championship.

In round four, Baumgardner landed a perfect over hand right that froze the reigning champ on her feet. The fight was stopped just as Baumgardner landed a left hook at 23 seconds.

Baumgardner, 129.5 lbs of Detroit, MI is 11-1 with seven knockouts. Harper, 129.4 lbs of Denby Main, ENG is 11-1-1.

Billiam-Smith Decisions Bregeon

Chris Billam-Smith retained his European Cruiserweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Dylan Bregeon.

Billiams-Smith, 199.2 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG won by scores of 120-109 and 119-109 twice and is now 14-1. Bregeon, 197.5 lbs of Nantes, FRA is 11-2-1.

In round four, Bregeon was cut around his right ear.

Dixon Decisions McCrory

Donte Dixon remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Jordan McCrory in a super featherweight contest.

In round six, Dixon dropped McCrory with a body shot. Later in the round, McCrory was deducted a point for holding.

Dixon, 126.1 lbs of Sheffield, ENG won by an 80-71 tally and is now 6-0. McCrory, 131.3 lbs of Cambusling, SCO is `19-8-1.

Hunt Decisions Flint

Dom Hunt won a 10-round decision over James Flint in a battle of undefeated welterweights.

Hunt, 145.2 lbs of Wakefield, ENG won by a 98-93 score and is now 8-0. Flint, 145.5 lbs of Doncaster, ENG is 9-1-1.

Kid Galahad will make the maiden defence of his IBF Featherweight World Title against former World Champion Kiko Martinez on the same night that WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight ruler Terri Harper returns to put her belts on the line against the USA’s Alycia Baumgardner, exclusively on DAZN worldwide – excluding Australia and New Zealand.

The World Title double-header lands at the Utilita Arena Sheffield on Saturday November 13 and is supported by a stellar undercard that features Chris Billam-Smith (13-1, 10 KOs) making the first defence of his European Cruiserweight Title, Leeds Super-Bantamweight talent Hopey Price (6-0, 2 KOs), James Flint (9-0-1, 2 KOs) battling Dom Hunt (7-0, 1 KO) for the Central Area Welterweight Title, Donte Dixon (5-0, 3 KO) squaring off with Jordan McCorry (19-7-1, 4 KOs) in an eight-round Super-Featherweight contest, Raven Chapman (1-0, 1 KO), Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Khalid Ayub (1-0) and Oldham debutant William Cawley.

Sheffield’s Galahad (28-1, 17 KOs) turned in a superb performance as he clinically stopped Liverpool’s Jazza Dickens in eleven rounds to claim the vacant IBF crown at Matchroom HQ in Brentwood, Essex back in August – fulfilling his life-long dream of becoming a World Champion.

The Dominic Ingle-trained 31-year-old is targeting supremacy at 126lbs, and has already called for unification fights with the likes of WBC ruler Gary Russell Jr. and WBO Champion Emanuel Navarrete, but must first get past former IBF Super-Bantamweight Champion Martinez (42-10-2, 29 KOs).

Spain’s Martinez is relishing the opportunity to become a two-weight World Champion after suffering a controversial loss at the hands of Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett at The SSE Arena, Wembley earlier this year, and the 35-year-old is well known on these shores having shared the ring with multiple World Champions.

Harper (11-0-1, 6 KOs) looked sensational as she stopped Norway’s Katharina Thanderz in nine rounds to retain her WBC and IBO 130lbs crowns last time out in November 2020 on the undercard of Katie Taylor’s win over Miriam Gutierrez in London. 

The Denaby favourite was set to defend her World Titles in a unification clash with South Korea’s undefeated WBA World Champion Hyun-Mi Choi in May before sustaining a hand injury that has kept her side-lined for a number of months, but will now look to get her career back on track against Baumgardner (10-1, 6 KOs)in Sheffield.

“I am beyond excited for this,” said Galahad. “It will give me a great sense of pride to be making my first World Title defence right here in Sheffield, the city where my boxing journey began with the legend Brendan Ingle. 

“Brendan told me way back when I was 14 years old that if I stuck with it, I would be a World Champion one day – so this will be a special moment for me, and it will be dedicated to Brendan and Alma Ingle. To make my maiden World Title defence right here in front of the incredible people of Sheffield, my family and my fans will be a very special moment. 

“Kiko is a former World Champion and has been in with multiple other World Champions so he has a huge amount of experience. He is a very tough man and never shy’s away during a fight. You’re always going to be in for a hard night’s work with Kiko who will be pushing, pressuring and punching all night long.

“We saw how sharp and hungry he looked against Zelfa Barrett recently so with this being his chance to become World Champion again, I’m expecting an even hungrier and sharper version and I will be preparing for exactly that, with no stones left unturned!”

“The UK is like my second home, I felt robbed against Zelfa Barrett, but all the fans know who the real winner was,” said Martinez. “I hope that this time the judges will be fair with me. Galahad is a very good boxer and I respect him, but I am very confident in my abilities. I am excited with this opportunity. To become a World Champion in a second weight division is my goal.”

“I am very excited to be back out on November 13 and continuing the journey,” said Harper. “It has been a tough year out with the injury, but we have been constantly working in the gym and I feel so much more focused mentally. I couldn’t think of a better return than at Sheffield Arena back in front of the home crowd where I last boxed before lockdown.”

“I hope Terri Harper understands that when you step in the ring with me, I’m throwing bombs,” said Baumgardner. “Terri will feel every punch I throw. My punches are thrown with evil intent and I intend to hurt her, and to become ‘The New’. My time is now, and everyone will know who ‘The Bomb’ is. Don’t let a pretty face fool you. On November 13 I can’t wait to show the world that god has blessed me with talent and I intend to show what happens when talent meets opportunity and my fist meets Terri Harper’s face.”

“After a fantastic performance at Fight Camp, Kid Galahad is back defending his IBF Featherweight World Title for the first time,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “It doesn’t get much better than a maiden title defence in your hometown, against a former World Champion in Kiko Martinez. Terri Harper also returns to the ring after a year out, putting her WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight Titles on the line. This is certainly not one to miss, live on DAZN around the world.”

Tickets are priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP).

Fight Pass members can purchase tickets now via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk). General Sale tickets are available from midday on Thursday October 14 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and the Utilita Arena Sheffield (www.utilitaarenasheffield.co.uk).

Newly crowned IBF Featherweight World Champion Kid Galahad has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing. 

The Sheffield star (28-1, 17 KOs) turned in a superb performance on Saturday as he clinically stopped Liverpool’s Jazza Dickens in eleven rounds to claim the vacant IBF crown at the top of the bill on Fight Camp Week 2.

Trained by Dominic Ingle out of the famous Ingle Gym, Britain’s latest World Champion is targeting supremacy at 126lbs, and has already called for unification fights with the likes of WBC ruler Gary Russell Jr. and WBO Champion Emanuel Navarrete.

Galahad has dedicated his whole life to the sport of boxing and is regarded as one of the hardest workers in the game, and the 31-year-old former British and European Champion has an ultimate goal of becoming the Undisputed Featherweight king. 

“DAZN and Eddie have a new star on their hands,” said Galahad. “I told you all before this bout, ‘I AM FIGHT CAMP’, and I believe my performance on Saturday night showed that. Now I look forward to showcasing my skills back in the arenas in front of the crowds.

“Boxing is at its best with the boxing fans in attendance – and Featherweight boxing is at its best when Kid Galahad is in the ring, under them bright lights, shining and closing the show in style. From the ring walk to the ring craft – I’m the best in the division and I’m ready to put on a proper show with Matchroom and DAZN.”

“We’ve been working closely with Kid for some years now but it’s great to make it official and sign a multi-fight deal at this exciting stage of his career,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “His performance on Saturday was faultless and stands him as one of the seven British World Champions in boxing right now. I’m looking forward to the future and seeing him in some big unification fights.”

18:00 BST LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL

8 x 3 mins International Super-Featherweight contest
AQIB FIAZ 131³/₄ lbs v KEVIN BALDOSPINO 131¹/₄ lbs
(Oldham, England)        (Miranda de Ebro, Spain)

followed by

19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN

8 x 2 mins International Bantamweight contest
EBANIE BRIDGES 118³/₄ lbs  v BEC CONNOLLY 119lbs
(New South Wales, Australia)   (Swindon, England)

followed by

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest 
JOHNNY FISHER 239¹/₄ lbs v DANNY WHITAKER 259¹/₂ lbs
(Romford, England)                 (Silsden, England)

followed by

8 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
ALEN BABIC 210lbs v MARK BENNETT 272¹/₂ lbs
(Zagreb, Croatia)         (Dunsville, England)

followed by

10 x 3 mins English Heavyweight Title
FABIO WARDLEY 235¹/₂ lbs v NICK WEBB 256lbs
(Ipswich, England)                   (Surrey, England)

followed by

12 x 3 mins vacant IBF Featherweight World Title
KID GALAHAD 125 ³/₄ lbs  v JAZZA DICKENS 125¹/₄ lbs              
(Sheffield, England)               (Liverpool, England)

BBC Radio 5 Live will see out a great summer of sport with a flurry of top-flight fight nights, after signing an exclusive deal with Matchroom Boxing.

It all kicked off at the weekend with Saturday’s Fight Camp opener at the stunning Matchroom HQ in Brentwood, Essex, which was headlined by Xu Can’s WBA Featherweight World Title defence against Leigh Wood.

Nottingham boxer Wood came out on top with a sensational 12th-round stoppage of China’s Xu Can to become his city’s second ever World Champion.

Coming up this weekend, Saturday August 7, it’s the mouth-watering vacant IBF World Featherweight Title clash between old rivals Kid Galahad and Jazza Dickens. On Saturday August 14 Joshua Buatsi will go up against Ricards Bolotniks, for the WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title. Then on Saturday September 4 Josh Warrington faces Mexico’s Mauricio Lara in a must-win rematch at Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds. 

Sheffield’s Galahad (21-1, 16 KOs) and Liverpool’s Dickens (30-3, 11 KOs) fought for domestic honours at Super-Bantamweight back in 2013, with Galahad winning. But Dickens insists that encounter will have no bearing on this weekend’s fight, coverage gets underway on BBC Radio 5 Live at 10:30pm on Saturday night.

The bill will also see an explosive English Heavyweight Title battle between Fabio Wardley (11-0, 10 KOs) and Nick Webb (17-2, 13 KOs). While the ‘Blonde Bomber’ Ebaine Bridges (5-1, 2 KOs) faces up against Swindon’s ‘Lady Luck’ Bec Connolly (3-9, 0 KOs) 

On August 14 it’s a huge night for former Olympic bronze medallist Buatsi (14-0, 12 KOs) as he goes into battle against the experienced Latvian Bolotniks (18-5, 8 KOs). The night will also see the classy young American Raymond Ford (8-0-1, 4 KOs) take on the more experienced Reece Bellotti (14-4, 12 KOs).

On Saturday September 4 Leeds legend Warrington (30-1, 7 KOs) will attempt to avenge his one and only defeat with a rematch against Lara (22-2, 15 KOs). Ireland’s Katie Taylor (18-0, 6 KOs) will face Texan Jennifer Han (18-3-1, 1 KO).

Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, said: “I am delighted that BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds will be covering these three massive nights of action as we close out a huge summer of boxing. The all-British clash for the IBF Featherweight World Title between Kid Galahad and Jazza Dickens is set to be a cracker at the top of Fight Camp Week 2 this weekend and rising Light-Heavyweight start Joshua Buatsi takes a huge step up when he takes on Ricards Bolotniks at the top of Week 3. Then it’s Leeds on September 4 for Josh Warrington’s huge rematch with fearsome Mexican puncher Mauricio Lara.”

Louise Sutton, 5 Live Sport Editor, said: “BBC Radio 5 Live Boxing has provided superb live coverage of some colossal fights over this past year, with many more to come.

“This deal with Matchroom confirms another series of thrilling nights of action for fans to enjoy. We’re delighted to be providing UK boxing fans with live free-to-air coverage of each head-to-head, alongside expert analysis, opinion and some special guests.”

Fans can listen live, on BBC Radio 5 Live or via BBC Sounds app.

• Kid Galahad vs Jazza Dickens BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds 10:30pm Saturday August 7

General Sale tickets for the three Fight Camp events taking place at the Matchroom HQ in Brentwood, Essex headlined by Conor Benn vs. Adrian Granados on Saturday July 31, Kid Galahad vs. Jazza Dickens on Saturday August 7 and Joshua Buatsi vs. Richard Bolotniks on Saturday August 14 will be available to purchase at 10am on Friday July 2. 

Fans can purchase General Sale tickets via StubHub(www.stubhub.co.uk)

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets via Matchroom Boxing  (www.matchroomboxing.com) from 10am on Thursday July 1.

All tickets are priced at £750 per show (plus booking fee) and include transportation to and from the venue (shuttle service from the Brentwood Centre) and festival style hospitality (complimentary food and beverages) throughout the night. Full event information can be found at your point of purchase. 

Fight Camp returns with a bang on Saturday July 31 as rising Welterweight star Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Mexico’s Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs) following his sensational first round KO win over Samuel Vargas, newly-crowned WBA Bantamweight World Champion Shannon Courtenay (7-1, 3 KOs) puts her World Title on the line for the first time, Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a huge showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, former World Title challenger Avni Yildrim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea when he takes on Roberto Garcia (44-5, 27 KOs), Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight.

Sheffield’s Galahad (27-1, 16 KOs) and Liverpool’s Dickens (30-3, 11 KOs) meet in an all-British clash for the vacant IBF Featherweight World Title at the top of Week 2 on Saturday August 7, Ipswich Heavyweight knockout artist Fabio Wardley (11-0, 10 KOs) steps up again after stopping Eric Molina in five rounds, the ‘Albanian King’ Florian Marku (8-0-1, 6 KOs) fights Maxim Prodan (19-0-1, 15 KOs) for the IBF International Welterweight Title, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (7-0, 7 KOs) looks to extend his KO streak against Mark Bennett (7-1, 1 KO), popular Australian Ebanie Bridges (5-1, 2 KOs) went to war with Shannon Courtenay last time out and returns to the UK to face Bec Connolly (3-9) over eight rounds, gifted Catford talent Ellie Scotney (2-0) looks to impress again, Romford Heavyweight Johnny Fisher (2-0, 2 KOs) goes for another knockout against Josh Sandland (5-3-1) and Oldham prospect Aqib Fiaz (6-0) fights for the first time in 2021. 

Fight Camp concludes with an action-packed night of boxing on Saturday August 14 that sees Buatsi (14-0, 12 KOs) defend his WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title against the winner of the MTK Global Golden Contract winner Bolotniks (18-5-1, 8 KOs), Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (10-0, 8 KOs) makes the second defence of her WBO Middleweight World Title as she pushes for unification fights, undefeated New Jersey Featherweight Raymond Ford (8-0-1, 4 KOs) fights in the UK for the second time against Reece Bellotti (14-4, 12 KOs), Portsmouth’s Michael McKinson (20-0, 2 KOs) puts his WBO Global Welterweight Title on the line against Poland’s Przemyslaw Runowski (19-1, 5 KOs) following his breakout win over Chris Kongo in Gibraltar, Wokingham’s Felix Cash (14-0, 10 KOs) blitzed Denzel Bentley in three rounds last time out and puts his Commonwealth belt up for grabs again in the Matchroom garden, Glasgow Bantamweight slickster Kash Farooq (15-1, 6 KOs) makes the first defence of his WBC International Silver Title, two-time World Title challenger Tasha Jonas (9-2-1, 7 KOs) returns to the scene of her epic Fight of the Year contender with Terri Harper and Leeds Featherweight talent Hopey Price looks to go 5-0. 

*Ticket holders can only arrive at the venue via Matchroom transport.

Kid Galahad says he has unfinished business with reigning IBF World Champion Josh Warrington ahead of his Final Eliminator clash with Claudio Marrero on the undercard of Kell Brook vs. Mark DeLuca at the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield on Saturday February 8, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 
 
Galahad (26-1, 15 KOs) fell short in his first World Title attempt against Warrington at the First Direct Arena in Leeds back in June last year, losing out on a controversial split decision after 12 close rounds, but the Sheffield ace has a golden opportunity to land a rematch when he faces ‘The Matrix’ next week. 
 
“The day after the fight I went straight back into the gym,” said Galahad. “I went back to the drawing board. I believe that I didn’t lose that fight. I didn’t feel like I lost that fight when I was in the ring. The judges saw it a different way, it is what it is. Next time I’ve got to make sure I don’t leave it in the judges’ hands. 
 
“I 100% believe that if that fight was anywhere else, and we had neutral judges, Kid Galahad would have been crowned a World Champion. I believe that the IBF is the best governing body though, they don’t mess about. They looked at the decision, they watched the fight and they gave me a Final Eliminator again. 
 
“I believe that if it was any other governing body, they wouldn’t have done that. I’ve got unfinished business. That’s the title I want. If Josh Warrington has the title after I come through February 8, then great. Josh is a hell of a fighter, he’s strong and he can fight. I don’t believe that he had a bad night, I just believe that he got beat that night. I believe he knows he got beat that night.”
 
Marrero (24-3, 17 KOs) captured the interim WBA Featherweight World Title with a one round demolition of Carlos Zambrano in 2017 and the 30-year-old from the Dominican Republic is determined to shatter Galahad’s dreams and set up another attempt at gold for himself. 
 
“I’m fully focused on February 8 and Claudio Marrero. I’m fully focused on him and getting this kid out of the way because it’s going to be a very dangerous night for me. Marrero comes from a very good amateur pedigree. He’s a former Dominican Republic Olympian, he’s signed with Al Haymon as a pro. He’s had 23 fights, 17 knockouts, he’s only lost to high-calibre opponents. He can punch, he can box. 
 
“He can do everything this kid and he’s very dangerous. February 8^th is going to be a very tough night for me. I’ve been training very hard, I’m looking forward to it. Whatever he brings to the table on February 8^th I’m going to rise to the occasion and step up my game. If I don’t win this fight then there is no World Title fight for me.”

Galahad vs. Marrero is part of a huge night of action in Sheffield.Kell Brook (38-2, 26 KOs) will be aiming to shake off the ring rust and fire his name back into the mix for a Word Title shot in 2020 when he meets the USA’s Mark DeLuca (24-1, 13 KOs), Terri Harper (9-0, 5 KOs) clashes with Finland’s Eva Wahlstrom (23-1-2, 3 KOs) in a unification for the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles, AnthonyTomlinson (11-0, 6 KOs) takes on Stewart Burt (13-1-1, 1 KO) in a Eliminator for the British and Commonwealth Welterweight titles, Dave Allen (17-5-2, 14 KOs) makes his long-awaited return after eight months out of the ring, Brentwood Super-Featherweight Martin Joseph Ward (23-1-2, 11 KOs) and Sheffield Super-Featherweight prospect Donte Dixon (2-0, 1 KO) return, Super-Middleweight John Docherty (7-0, 5 KO) continues his march towards a first title, Leeds Featherweight Hopey Price (2-0, 1 KO) looks to go 3-0 and Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Callum Beardow (1-0) fights for the second time as a pro.

“I feel great, I feel good. We’re four weeks out, I’m on weight, my training is going great. I’m ready to fight, I’d be ready to fight next week. It feels good to be preparing for a fight again. I’m fighting back in Sheffield, we know what we get from the fans – amazing support. It’s always an amazing atmosphere in the arena.

“DeLuca is in front of me, an ex marine, a very fit fighter, very strong, he’s going to come over here like it’s his World Title fight. The fans are in for a real treat and I can’t wait to give them that treat. I can’t wait to perform and for the crowd to get behind me and push me on.

“Dom has watched DeLuca live a few times and I’ve seen little bits of him. I don’t really watch tapes of my opponents but I’ll watch a bit more of him in the next couple of weeks and then basically just listen to Dom and the game plan. The it’s just about getting in there and executing it.

“At the beginning of last year it was frustrating because I was trying to get the Terence Crawford fight to happen. I was trying to make a few fights happen but they never materialised. 2019 was frustrating at first but then I was just enjoying my time with my little girls, went travelling about a little bit but then I started getting a bit bored and thought boxing is where I belong and I need to give some more of myself to the fans. I’ve got unfinished business and I want to give all I’ve got.

“I want whoever holds a belt, I want to be a two-time World Champion this year. I want to be on everybody’s lips, ‘I can’t believe what this guy’s done. I can’t believe it. What’s happened? He’s the main man again’. That’s what I’m aiming for.”

Kid Galahad:

“I am fully focused at the moment on Claudio Marrero who is very dangerous and I’m sure this will be a difficult fight for me to win. He has great amateur pedigree as a former Olympian with the Dominican Republic, he’s only lost to high calibre boxers and he can punch.

“I’ve got to do a number on this kid and get him out the way. I have trained very hard for this fight and I will raise to the occasion, step up my game and be ready for whatever he brings to the table on February 8.

“I’ve got to be 100% ready and I can’t afford to make any mistakes because if I do that could be the end of the night for me.

“The day after my last fight I went back to the drawing board and straight back in the gym. I don’t believe that I lost that fight but the judges saw it a different way so next time I’ve got to make sure I don’t leave the decision to them.

“I believe the IBF is the best governing body and that’s why I’ve gone back down that route. I have got unfinished business and the IBF crown is the title that I want but I have challenges to overcome between now and then, if I don’t win this fight then there is no World Title fight for me.”

“On February 8 you should expect fireworks and a boxing lesson from myself!”

Kell Brook will make his eagerly-anticipated return to the ring against Mark DeLuca at the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield on Saturday February 8 on a bumper bill featuring Kid Galahad taking on Claudio Marrero in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Featherweight crown, Terri Harper clashing with Eva Wahlstrom for the WBC Super-Featherweight World Title and the return of Heavyweight favourite Dave Allen, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

Former IBF Welterweight ruler Brook (38-2, 26 KOs) was last seen outpointing Australia’s Michael Zerafa over a year ago in his hometown and ‘The Special One’, now trained by Dominic Ingle, will be aiming to shake off the ring rust and fire his name back into the mix for a Word Title shot in 2020.

Standing in his way is the USA’s DeLuca (24-1, 13 KOs), a southpaw hailing from Whitman in Massachusetts nicknamed ‘The Bazooka’ who is currently enjoying a three-fight winning streak, picking up the NABA Super-Welterweight title on the undercard of Andrade vs. Kautondokwa in October 2018.

“I’m so happy to be back and I can’t wait to put on a performance for my city on February 8 live on Sky Sports and DAZN,” said Brook. “I’ve had a year out, there has been some dark times but what I’ve realised is I love this sport and I know I have some of my biggest years left in the game. DeLuca is a strong, gutsy fighter who is always ready for war but I’m planning on putting on a statement and showing the world that I’m still a force at 154 or 147lbs.”

Galahad (26-1, 15 KOs) fell short in a close and controversial battle with IBF Featherweight kingpin Josh Warrington at the First Direct Arena in Leeds earlier this year but the Sheffield contender has earned a golden opportunity to land another shot at the 126lbs World Title when he meets ‘The Matrix’.

Marrero (24-3, 17 KOs) captured the interim WBA Featherweight World Title with a one round demolition of Carlos Zambrano in 2017 and the 30-year-old from the Dominican Republic is determined to shatter Galahad’s dreams and set up another attempt at gold for himself. 

“Every opponent at this level has to be respected and that’s what I’ll do,” said Galahad. “He’s a game kid in a life changing fight, similar to me. So it will be a tough night but I’ll prepare fully. 

“I am grateful to the IBF, Matchroom and my team for making sure they made a sensible decision to get me back into the Final Eliminator – something I think is deserved and most of the fans do too. 

“I’ve had many people believe I won the first fight with Warrington but what’s written in the record books is what counts. I’ll focus fully on Marrero now and then if and when we get through that  – I’ll look to right the wrongs of the first fight. Let’s hope Josh sticks around to take the rematch as many of his own fans and neutrals came out saying he didn’t do enough to have his arm raised the first night.”

Harper (9-0, 5 KOs) got off to a flying start under the Matchroom Boxing banner with a polished performance to outpoint tough Brazilian Viviane Obenauf in the first defence of her IBO Super-Featherweight World Title on her 23^rd birthday in November. 

That win set up a shot at the famous green and gold WBC Super-Featherweight World Title owned by Finland’s Wahlstrom (23-1-2, 3 KOs), a veteran of women’s boxing who will be making the sixth defence of her title against rising star Harper.

“I’m really looking forward to be fighting back in Sheffield, this time as a Matchroom fighter and fighting for one of the most prestigious World Title belts in my opinion,” said Harper. “I know that there’s boxers out there who would give anything for this opportunity that I’ve been given, so we’re leaving no stone left unturned. 

“Being local and having the home crowd behind me on the night, the atmosphere is going to be electric – I know this is going to push me on to win the belt not only for me but for every single supporter.”

Allen (17-5-2, 14 KOs) makes his long-awaited ring return after taking some time out of boxing following his defeat to David Price at The O2 in London in July, and the ‘White Rhino’ now has his eyes set on securing a shot at the coveted Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt in 2020.

“It’s great to be back boxing and even better it’s at the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield,” said Allen. “It’s an honour to be boxing alongside some of my friends and to see Kell Brook return to action. I’m coming back to win the British Title and that’s my aim for 2020, this is the start of that journey.”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing, said: “We’re delighted to see Kell Brook back in action on Sky Sports in front of his hometown fans in Sheffield. Kell will be determined to prove he can still battle with the very best, including British rival Amir Khan, and we hope he can set up a blockbuster fight for later in the year.

“It’s an exciting early addition to our 2020 schedule, with Kid Galahad trying to force his way back into World Title contention, the excellent Terri Harper can become Britain’s latest World Champion, and Dave Allen always guarantees entertainment.”

Tickets priced £40, £60, £100 and £200 (VIP) go on sale at midday today (Friday December 20) and will be available to purchase from the FlyDSA Arena (www.flydsaarena.co.uk), StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)

Josh Warrington retained the IBF Featherweight title with a 12-round split decision over Kid Galahad at The First District Arena in Warrington’s hometown of Leeds, England.

Warrington of Leeds won by scores of 116-113 and 115-112.  Galahad of England took a card 115-113.

Warrington is now 29-0.  Galahad is 26-1.

Zelfa Barrett won a 12-round unanimous decision over Lyon Woodstock in a super featherweight bout.

Barrett won by scores of 118-110 and 117-111 twice and is now 22-1.  Woodstock is 12-2.

JJ Metcalf stopped former world title challenger Jason Welborn in round eight of their scheduled 12-round super welterweight bout.

In round eight, Metcalf was deducted a point for a low blow. He more than made that point up seconds later as he landed a vicious body shot that sent Welborn down for the count at 2:25.

Metcalf is 20-0 with 12 knockouts. Welborn is 24-8.

Shakiel Thompson won a six-round decision Alistair Warren in a super middleweight fight.

Thompson won by a referee score of 59-55, and is now 4-0. Warren is 11-24-5.

The following is the running order for this evenings Leeds show-

(Subject to change)

Fight # 1 – 16:00 hrs
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Welterweight Contest
JACK MCGANN V KEV MCAULEY

Fight # 2
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Light Heavyweight Contest
KODY DAVIES V HARRY MATTHEWS

Fight # 3
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest
TROY WILLIAMSON V EDWIN PALACIOS

Fight # 4
8 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
ALEX DICKINSON V KAMIL SOKOLOWSKI

Fight # 5
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
LYNDON ARTHUR V ANDRZEJ SOLDRA

Fight # 6
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest
MARK HEFFRON V DANIEL URBANSKI

Fight # 7
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Bantamweight Contest
JACK BATESON V BAYARDO RAMOS

Floater- Pre-TV
4 x 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
JOHN JOYCE V VICTOR EDAGBA

BT LlVE BROADCAST COMMENCES AT 20:00 HRS
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Fight # 8- 20:05 hrs
6×3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
SHAKIEL THOMPSON V ALISTAIR WARREN

Fight # 9
THE VACANT COMMONWEALTH SUPER-WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12×3 Minute Rounds @154lbs
JJ METCALF V JASON WELBORN

Fight # 10
THE VACANT COMMONWEALTH SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 130 lbs
ZELFA BARRETT V LYON WOODSTOCK

Fight # 11
THE IBF WORLD FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12×3 Minute Rounds @126 lbs
JOSH WARRINGTON V KID GALAHAD

The talk has now been talked ahead of Saturday night’s IBF world featherweight title clash between the champion Josh Warrington and his mandatory challenger Kid Galahad at the FD Arena, live on BT Sport.

The final press conference took place earlier today and below are selected quotes from the media gathering in Leeds.

Francis Warren

“The fight against Lee Selby was voted IBF Fight of the Year and I fully expect the Carl Frampton one to be named the same at the next convention, and rightly so.

Saturday’s fight will be another cracker because Josh isn’t in boring fights. Josh brings it with non-stop pressure and, with the best fans in the world behind him, it makes it a very intimidating place to come.

The fight at Elland Road was unbelievable and one of my favourite nights in boxing. It will go down as one of the special ones in British boxing history.

People say Ricky Hatton united a city, but Leeds is already behind Josh and is a city united.”

Dominic Ingle

“The atmosphere is not really a factor when you have been in this situation before and I have been involved in maybe 60 or 70 world title fights. Josh and his dad have been in about two or three, so it is down to experience.

But what you have done in the past is not going to be a reflection of what you do in the future and I think a good example of that is Anthony Joshua the other weekend.

It doesn’t matter if Josh Warrington had a great fight against Lee Selby, or a great fight against Carl Frampton, it has no bearing on how Kid Galahad is going to fight him because he is completely different to those two guys.

Kid Galahad is a different proposition. Everybody backed those two against Josh and everybody considered them to be the better fighter, but Josh Warrington came through. That is where we are now, everybody thinks Josh Warrington is going to win this fight because he is the champion and the better fighter. But he has been in the same position in his last two fights and look what happened. That is what is going to happen to Kid Galahad.

He is coming up against an unbeaten prospect, not like Carl Frampton or Lee Selby, he is against somebody with the same kind of determination as him. When you come up against somebody who consistently trains day in, day out, you are up against a different kind of fighter.

That is what Josh Warrington is going to get on Saturday night. Kid Galahad has got that hunger, it is not about money, it is about winning the fights and he is not going to be happy until he has had six or seven defences of his title.”

Sean O’Hagan

“I was alright until he started going on about hunger – and now I am hungry! I’ve had nowt since 7am this morning.

I think we have put 20 years of work in and he is making it sound like we are going to turn it all in on Saturday and give it all up.

He knows that’s not the case. The fact Josh as bought a house doesn’t mean we are going to turn up and think it is our god-given right – Dominic knows that. He keeps going on about him having nothing, but I don’t remember us having a corner shop when we was kids, so he was off to a good start there, to be fair.

We’ve always fought and worked hard for everything and I can assure you we are not about to give that up on Saturday night. Everybody goes on about underdogs and who is favourite or not. I don’t think that comes into it, you turn up on night and do what you do.

There has been no complacency whatsoever in this camp and we have done what we do in every camp.

Barry is a good fighter and he is here on merit as mandatory, so we prepare for him like we have done for everybody else. Perhaps more because we do want to beat him a bit more than everybody else.”

Kid Galahad

“I’m feeling good, training has gone well and all the talking is done. Just a few more sleeps and that belt is coming back to Sheffield. I just know, it is destiny and I have been dreaming about this all my life.

I have always known I would fight Josh as a professional and I just can’t wait now.

The last thing Brendan Ingle gave me was a tee-shirt from when Naz fought Boom Boom Johnson for the IBF title. It is destiny. I was very close to Brendan and I spent most of my time with him. If it wasn’t for him I would probably be locked up or dead. When I do win he will be watching me. When that title is around my waist he will be smiling up above.

I don’t really fear much about Josh. He is a good fighter but I believe I have sparred better fighters than him in the past like Linares, Ricky Burns, Kell Brook – the list goes on. They keep going on about him beating Lee Selby and Carl Frampton, but I have sparred better kids than he has boxed.

Sparring is actually harder than the fight in my opinion.”

Josh Warrington

“The support has been fantastic as always. We’re here and I can’t wait to go at the end of a long camp. I am hungry and I can’t wait for Saturday. It has been a busy few weeks listening to Barry and his team, but let’s get one thing clear. The hunger has not died one little bit.

Because my lifestyle has changed over the last year or so does not mean I am about to roll over and let me title go away. It is my title by merit, I won it fair and square and no-one is coming to Leeds and taking it off me.

I’ve set myself little goals about unifying the division and I am not looking at Barry as someone who is getting under my skin anymore. I am just looking at him as an opponent, I’ve got to get through him then we go Stateside for big world title fights.

For Dom to say I have lost my hunger… He doesn’t know owt about me and it is stupid for him to assume the hunger and desire is not there. In this camp I have given my all.

For Barry to say sparring is harder than fights is a load of b*llocks.

He can keep talking about it being his destiny and it sounds like he is saying the same things as me in my press conference against Lee Selby. It is not Barry’s time. The title will be staying here.”

Josh Warrington tops the bill at First Direct Arena, Leeds when he defends his IBF featherweight championship against Kid Galahad on Saturday June 15.
Leading super featherweights Zelfa Barrett and Lyon Woodstock meet in a hotly anticipated clash for the Commonwealth title, with Jason Welborn and JJ Metcalf also vying for the vacant Commonwealth super welterweight championship.

Tickets for Warrington v Galahad are available via Ticketmaster and are priced as below:

£450 – Hospitality
£300 – Floor
£200 – Floor
£150 – Floor
£100 – Floor/Tier
£75 – Tier
£50 – Tier
£40 – Tier

This Saturday, June 15, ESPN+ will bring boxing fans an exclusive Top Rank Boxing triple-header, culminating with unbeaten lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury against top contender Tom Schwarz in Las Vegas.

The action starts on ESPN+ bright and early, at 6am ET when Australian twin brothers Andrew Moloney (19-0, 12 KO) and Jason Moloney (18-1, 15 KO) are both in action fromSeagulls Stadium, Tweeds Head, Australia. The 28-year-old twin rising stars, will both take the ring, as Jason (no. 6 in ESPN.com’s Bantamweight rankings) will defend his WBA Oceania Bantamweight title against Tanzania’s challenger Goodluck Mrema (23-4, 13 KO), while brother Andrew (ESPN.com’s no. 10 ranked Junior Bantamweight) faces offagainst former Tanzanian Champion Selemani Bangaiza (15-5, 5 KO). Andrew is coming off a significant victory in March, having demolished the highly rated Chilean Miguel Gonzalez on Gonzalez’ home turf in San Francisco de Mostazal.

At 3pm ET the action moves to England for a battle of unbeatens squaring off for the IBF Featherweight Championship, as defending champion Josh Warrington (28-0, 6 KO) and unbeaten challenger Kid Galahad (26-0, 15 KO) meet in Leeds.  Warrington (ranked no. 2 in ESPN.com’s Featherweight rankings) will be fighting in front of his hometown crowd and defending his title for the second time, having taken the title from Lee Selby in May 2018 and defended it in December in an intense clash with Carl Frampton. He faces Galahad (ranked no. 8 by ESPN.com), the mandatory challenger following an October defeat of Toka Kahn Clary in Boston. Born in Qatar, Galahad has lived most of his life in Sheffield, England, making this a Yorkshire Derby.

The big day of boxing culminates with Fury (27-0-1, 19 KO), the self-proclaimed “Gypsy King” and one of boxing’s most compelling fighters, meeting Schwarz at the MGM in Grand Las Vegas.  The fight marks the first in a multi-fight agreement announced in February, in which Fury’s fights are co-promoted by Top Rank and Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions. Fury captured the lineal heavyweight title on Nov. 28, 2015, with a unanimous decision over longtime champion Wladimir Klitschko. That win catapulted him to worldwide fame, but a host of personal demons threatened to end his career before he could defend his title. He blew up to 400-plus pounds, only to author a 2018 comeback that ranks among the great redemption stories in sporting history. In the third fight of his comeback, Fury fought WBC champion Deontay Wilder to a disputed draw in a sensational fight of the year candidate.

The co-feature for the evening’s fight card will see a light heavyweight clash between former world title challengers Jesse Hart (25-2, 21 KO) and Sullivan Barrera (22-2, 14 KO). A full seven-bout undercard for the Fury-Schwarz fight will be carried live on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, beginning at 7p.m. ET.

In just over a year since its launch, ESPN+ has already become a must-have destination for boxing fans, having already carried 21 exclusive world title fights, across 12 different weight classes and the four major sanctioning bodies (IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO).  ESPN+ also has thousands of hours of the greatest boxing matches of all time, on-demand, from the ESPN Big Fights Library and Top Rank Boxing Library.

TOP RANK ON ESPN+:  JUNE 15 BOXING SCHEDULE (all times ET)

* Undercard bouts carried live on ESPN2 & ESPN Deportes from 7-10 p.m.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and can cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.

JOSH WARRINGTON is unimpressed by Kid Galahad in the build-up to this week’s big world featherweight title showdown.

Warrington makes the second defence of his IBF crown when he faces Galahad at the First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday night.

The champion is bristling with fury because mandatory challenger, Galahad (26-0, 15KOs) – whose real name is Barry Awad – is doing most of his talking on social media during the build-up.

The Sheffield man recently teased Leeds United fan Warrington over his side’s failure in the Championship Play-off against Derby County.

Warrington, 28, snapped: “I’m looking forward to sorting Barry out. He has talked a lot in the media and social media, but doesn’t say much when we go head-to-head on that front.

“The way he has gone about it during the build-up has been a bit cringey. He is in for hard night.

“I don’t know if he is trying to use a certain persona or be a certain character to get to me.”

Warrington (28-0, 6 KOs) will be making the second defence of his crown. He took the belt from Lee Selby last May and came through a war against Carl Frampton in December.

He claims to have seen a change in Galahad since his epic win against Selby in front of 25,000 fans at Elland Road.

“I have known Barry from the amateur days,” recalled Warrington who defeated Galahad twice when they were amateurs.

“I can even remember speaking to him at the Boxing Writers’ Club dinner in 2014 when we both nominated for young fighter of the year and he was right as rain.

“Over the last year this different person has come out, by disrespecting myself and other fighters in the division like Frampton.

“If he is trying to get under my skin it isn’t working and almost laughable, but it has given me more motivation to do a number.”

Josh Warrington tops the bill at First Direct Arena, Leeds when he defends his IBF featherweight championship against Kid Galahad on Saturday June 15.
Leading super featherweights Zelfa Barrett and Lyon Woodstock meet in a hotly anticipated clash for the Commonwealth title, with Jason Welborn and JJ Metcalf also vying for the vacant Commonwealth super welterweight championship.

Other fighters confirmed in action on the bill so far include Lyndon Arthur, Alex Dickinson, Tommy Fury, Mark Heffron, Jack McGann and Troy Williamson.

Tickets for Warrington v Galahad are available via Ticketmaster and are priced as below:

£450 – Hospitality
£300 – Floor
£200 – Floor
£150 – Floor
£100 – Floor/Tier
£75 – Tier
£50 – Tier
£40 – Tier