William Zepeda punched his ticket to a title shot with a four-round bludgeoning of Maxi Hughes as The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas,

In round three, Zepeda was relentless and especially effective to the body. In round four, the beatdown continued as Zepeda continued to more or less assault Hughes all over the ring. Mercifully for Hughes his corner pulled him from the fight after the round.

Zepeda, 133.8 lbs of San Mateo Atenceo, MEX is 30-0 with 26 knockouts, Hughes, 134.6 lbs of Yorkshire, ENG is 26-7-2.

“This was another day in the office,” said William Zepeda. “Thirty different camps and thirty different wins and all I can do is thank my team. Early on I knew I had him, the strategy was to work the body and finish at the top. It is not confidence that I feel, but the weight of responsibility to keep giving this level of performances. The rivals who are at my doorstep are much stronger and have a lot more experience and we must continue to work. I will be the next champion from Mexico! I am ready for Shakur, Gervonta – who ever is ready to face me. I want to be a world champion.”

Floyd Schofield remained undefeated as Esteuri Suero did not comply wit the basic ruled of boxing and was disqualified in round five of their 10-round lightweight bout,

Schofield dominated the fight which visibly frustrated Suero into snapping the rules.

In round one, Schofield was cut above his right eye due to a headbutt. In round two, Suero was deducted a point for holding. In round four, Suero was deducted another point for throwing Schofield on the canvas. Finally in round five, Suero hit Schofield with an intentional low blow and the fight was called off at 2:07

Schofield, 134.8 lbs of Austin, TX is 17-0, Suero, 135 lbs of Las Vegas is 13-2.

Eric Priest remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jose Sanchez in a middleweight bout.

Priest landed 92 of 310 punches. Sanchez was 63 of 229.

Priest, 159.6 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 13-0. Sanchez, 160 lbs of Reynosa, MEX is 21-5-1.

Tristan Kalkrreuth stopped Marquice Weston in round two of their eight-round heavyweight bout,

In round two, Kalkreuth dropped Weston with a left hand and the fight was over at 1:32.

Kalkreuth, 198.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 13-1 with 10 knockouts. Weston, 201.6 lbs of Seattle is 15-3-1.

Joel Iriarte made a successful pro debut by stopping Bryan Carguacundo in round two of their four-round welterweight bout.

Iriarte was a 17-time National Amateur dominated the action and in round two hurt Carguacundo with a couple of uppercuts and the fight was stopped at 1:26.

Iriarte, 145.2 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 1-0 with one knockout. Carguacundo, 142.8 lbs of Las Vegas, NV is 3-6-2.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (February 15, 2024) – A fight card featuring Golden Boy’s brightest, elite fighters is what fans can expect on the undercard of Zepeda vs. Hughes, which will take place on Saturday, March 16. The 12-round IBF and WBA Lightweight World Championship Eliminator main event featuring undefeated knockout machine William “El Camarón” Zepeda (29-0, 25 KOs) of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico and English fighter and former IBO World Champion Maxi “Maximus” Hughes (26-6-2, 5 KOs) is co-promoted with DiBella Entertainment and will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and broadcast around the world on DAZN. 

Returning to fight after an explosive first-round knockout on the Ryan Garcia vs. Oscar Duarte undercard, the undefeated WBA International Lightweight Titleholder Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (16-0, 12-KOs) will defend his title against Las Vegas, Nevada’s Esteuri “El Puma” Suero (13-1, 10 KOs). The 10-round match will be featured as the co-main event. 

On the DAZN broadcast, Vancouver, Washington’s Victor “El Tornado” Morales, Jr. (19-0-1, 9 KOs) will be in a WBA Featherweight Championship Final eliminator fight against Luis “The Twist” Nunez (19-0, 13 KOs) of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. They will participate in a 10-round fight for the opportunity to fight for a world championship next. In a bad-blood rematch, Houston, Texas’ Marlen Esparza (14-1, 1 KO) will put her unified WBA, WBC, WBO and Ring Magazine Flyweight Championship titles on the line against Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Gabriela “Chucky” Alaniz (14-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round fight.

Opening the broadcast, Las Vegas, Nevada’s Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (12-1, 9 KOs) will participate in an eight-round cruiserweight fight against Seattle, Washington’s Marquice Weston (15-2-1, 8 KOs). Opening up fight night, Eric Priest (12-0, 8 KOs) will participate in a 10-round middleweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent. 

Tickets for Zepeda vs. Hughes are priced at $162, $108, $81 and $43 (not including applicable taxes and fees.) A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Media interested in applying for credentials can visit: https://www.emccredentials.com/zepeda_hughes. Deadline to apply is EOD Monday, March 11. 

###

Zepeda vs. Hughes is a 12-round IBF and WBA Lightweight World Championship Eliminator fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with DiBella Entertainment. 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 #ZepedaHughes

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (January 26, 2024) – The lightweight division’s newest imminent, undefeated danger and unparalleled knockout machine William “El Camarón” Zepeda (29-0, 25 KOs) of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico will face his first English fighter and former IBO World Champion Maxi “Maximus” Hughes (26-6-2, 5 KOs) in a 12-round IBF and WBA Lightweight World Championship Eliminator fight. The event, which is co-promoted with DiBella Entertainment, is scheduled for Saturday, March 16. The action will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and broadcast around the world on DAZN.

“I am excited for this big challenge ahead of me, and being one step closer to accomplishing my dream of becoming a world champion,” said William Zepeda. “Maxi Hughes is a grand fighter, and I can’t wait to face him in the ring on March 16 and represent my humble hometown of San Mateo Atenco on the world’s stage. I know Golden Boy wants to bring big fights back to Las Vegas, the capital of boxing, and I want to be part of that – I want to be crowned a World Champion in Vegas.”

William Zepeda has developed a track record for his unmissable, knockout performances. Representing the humble town of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico, “El Camarón” has cruised through his tough opposition, winning the hearts and minds of boxing fans. His breakout performance was against former world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz in October 2022, where he broke three CompuBox records at lightweight for total punches thrown (1,536, exceeding Efren Hinojosa’s 1,507 against Lamar Murphy on 3/16/01), jabs attempted in a round (89 in round two, breaking Lamar Murphy’s 88 in round two against Angel Manfredy on 8/3/01) and attempted jabs (787, surpassing Stefano Zoff’s 673 against Julien Lorcy on 8/7/99). He was last seen knocking out the resilient former world title challenger Mercito Gesta during Mexican Independence weekend last year.

“My last fight in the U.S., the judges broke my heart. I won’t let them derail my career. I’m coming back stateside with the bit between my teeth. Zepeda hasn’t fought anyone like me before,” said Maxi Hughes.

Former World Champion Maxi Hughes comes from humble beginnings, representing Rossington, England. Since making his professional boxing debut on September 17, 2010, he quickly ascended the ladder, building a portfolio full of regional titles including BBBofC Featherweight, WBC International Super Featherweight, WBO European Lightweight, and the WBC International Lightweight title. He ultimately became the IBO Lightweight World Champion in 2021 against Jovanni Straffon, which he successfully defended twice. He was last seen in a valiant performance against George Kambosos Jr. in July 2023.

“Zepeda is a wrecking ball every time he steps into the ring — and with a title shot hanging in the balance, fans are going to be in for an offensive barrage from “El Camarón,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “Maxi Hughes has been in with the best of the best, and if Zepeda gets past him, the sky’s the limit.”

“Maxi Hughes earned this double world title eliminator with a great run of fights and a terrific performance against George Kambosos Jr.,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Maxi and William Zepeda are two of the best lightweights in the world and this fight will establish a justifiable mandatory contender. I thank Golden Boy Promotions for their fairness in the negotiating process, treating Maxi like the world class fighter he is.”

Additional information on event tickets, undercard and media credentials will be announced in the coming weeks.

###

Zepeda vs. Hughes is a 12-round IBF and WBA Lightweight World Championship Eliminator fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with DiBella Entertainment. 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 #ZepedaHughes

 •  George Kambosos Jr. 134.6 lbs. vs. Maxi Hughes 134.7 lbs
(IBF Lightweight Title Eliminator — 12 Rounds)

   •   Keyshawn Davis 134.3 lbs vs. Francesco Patera 134 lbs
(Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

•    Giovani Santillan147.8 lbs  vs. Erick Bone 147.6 lbs 
 (Welterweight — 10 Rounds)

•  Jeremiah Milton 255.3 lbs  vs. Willie Harvey 296.5 lbs 
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

•  Troy Isley 158.8 lbs vs. Antonio Todd 159.2. lbs
 (Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Amron Sands 300 lbs vs. Hemi Ahio 247 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

• Stephan Shaw 244 lbs vs. Joe Goodall 238 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

SHAWNEE, OK (July 20, 2023) — Former unified and lineal lightweight king George Kambosos Jr. is eager to reclaim his throne, but English southpaw Maxi Hughes stands in his way.

Kambosos (20-2, 10 KOs) will fight Hughes (26-5-2, 5 KOs) in a 12-round IBF world title eliminator this Saturday at FireLake Arena in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Kambosos will be making his Top Rank debut as he sets his sights toward once again becoming champion. 

In the 10-round co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (8-0, 6 KOs) takes a seismic step up in class against Belgian contender and former European champion Francesco Patera (28-3, 10 KOs).

Kambosos-Hughes and Davis-Patera will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (6:15 p.m ET/3:15 p.m. PT) will feature the ring returns of welterweight contender Giovani Santillan, Oklahoma-born heavyweight Jeremiah Milton and middleweight prospect Troy Isley.

Santillan (30-0, 16 KOs) will face Ecuadorian contender Erick Bone (27-6, 14 KOs) in a 10-round battle, and Milton (9-0, 6 KOs) will make his second appearance of 2023 in an eight-round tilt against Willie Harvey (4-2-2, 3 KOs).

Isley (9-0, 4 KOs), a 2020 U.S. Olympian, will fight in an eight-rounder against Antonio Todd (14-8, 8 KOs).

Two competitive eight-round heavyweight matchups will also be featured on the ESPN+-streamed portion.

Orlando, Florida’s Amron Sands (12-2, 9 KOs) returns against New Zealand’s Hemi Ahio (20-1, 15 KOs), and once-beaten contender Stephan Shaw looks to bounce back against Australia’s Joe Goodall (9-1-1, 8 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment and Ferocious Promotions, tickets starting at $39 are on sale at www.stubwire.com.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

George Kambosos
 
“It’s an absolute pleasure to be here in Oklahoma. I’m very excited. I’m very refreshed because I had three massive fights within 11 months. Big fights take a toll. But I was able to step back, refresh my body, and continue my training. I’m here right now. I’m very excited. I feel fantastic. And we can’t wait to handle business.” 
 
“I’ve never been the kind of fighter who says, ‘Oh, I’ve got a loss. It’s taken my confidence away.’ I lost to Devin Haney. I think the boxing world has forgotten that he’s the only guy I’ve lost to. I’ve got to remind them again. We have learned a lot. And we have worked on a lot. But the biggest thing is that I’ve become a greedy motherf***er now. I’m going to take advantage of every hole there is.”
 
“I’m only focused on Maxi Hughes. We give him the utmost respect. He’s here. We know what he’s going to bring. Whatever there is to come, that will be spoken about after Saturday. But for now, there is only man in front of me.”
 
“I’m going to take his head off. That’s what’s going through my mind. I’m ready. I’m looking to absolutely destroy this man in my path.”
 
Maxi Hughes
 
“It’s been one of my dreams to fight in the U.S. When you turn professional, you see all the big fights in America and you want to be a part of that. I’ve had my tough times in boxing, and I’ve shown a lot of mental strength. I’ve come through that. I’ve earned my right to be on this stage as the main event.”
 
“The preparation has gone very well. My training team has been together for five years. After my last fight in September, I gave myself a week off and went back to the gym. I’m a full-time professional. That’s my job. I don’t just train for fights. I train and learn all the time. And then in February, we got the deal done with George. Since then, George’s face and name has been imprinted in my brain. Preparation went well and I’m very confident.”
 
Keyshawn Davis 
 
“You’re going to see something new. You can watch me fight. You can study me. But you got to really know boxing to know the type of fighter that you’re getting in the ring with when you fight me. I’m 8-0. Ya’ll haven’t even seen the best of me yet. Ya’ll will see something new.”
 
“Every time somebody fights me, it could be a life-changing moment for them. But when they get in the ring, it’s a different story. Just expect the same of what you’ve been seeing out of me.”
 
Francesco Patera
 
“I am very happy to be here and fight in the U.S. This means a lot. I am ready. This can change my life, so I’m going to give it my all on Saturday.”
 
“If you make a name for yourself in the U.S., you make a name for yourself worldwide. So, a victory will give me a good name.”
 
“A win will put me in a world title spot. So, this means a lot. I’ve done it before, and I’m sure I can do it again on Saturday.”
 
Jeremiah Milton 
 
“This is my home state. I’m carrying that weight for the whole state when it comes to boxing. I represent wherever I go. Whether it’s across the sea or whatever, they always know I’m from Tulsa.”
 
“I started late in boxing. I’ve come a long way really fast. I only had about 22 or 23 amateur fights. Now I’m coming through among the best in the game right now. No matter what, if you have people doubting you in the past, and you’ve ended up on this stage, they can now watch me perform on this stage.”
 
Giovani Santillan
 
“I feel good. I’ve just been training for those 11 months that I’ve been away. I’ve been staying ready, and I’ve been waiting for that call. I’m ready, and I feel good. I’m ready for Saturday.”
 
“After this Saturday, I can get a big shot. It depends on how I perform. I’m not taking this fight lightly. Erick Bone has fought a lot of good fighters. And I plan on showing that I’m ready for big fights against the big names.” 
 

Saturday, July 22

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
 

George Kambosos Jr. vs. Maxi Hughes, 12 rounds, IBF Lightweight World Title Eliminator 

Keyshawn Davis vs. Francesco Patera, 10 rounds, Lightweights 

 
ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

Giovani Santillan vs. Erick Bone, 10 rounds, Welterweights 

Stephan Shaw vs. Joe Goodall, 8 rounds, Heavyweights  

Former unified and lineal lightweight world champion George Kambosos Jr. (20-2, 10 KOs) makes his Top Rank debut in a 12-round IBF world title eliminator against English southpaw Maxi Hughes (26-5-2, 5 KOs).

Kambosos is a 10-year pro who has traveled the globe in his efforts to conquer the lightweight division. In a triumph that was named ESPN’s 2021 Upset of the Year, Kambosos toppled Teofimo Lopez via split decision and captured three lightweight world titles. Following his first career setbacks in 2022, Kambosos has ambitions of reclaiming his throne, but he’ll first need to get past Hughes.

Hughes, a 33-year-old veteran hailing from the United Kingdom, debuted in the paid ranks in 2010. He lost a November 2019 showdown for the WBO European title against Liam Walsh, but rebounded impressively, winning all seven of his subsequent fights, including a 10-round decision win against then-unbeaten Kazakh standout Viktor Kotochigov in 2020. Hughes is coming off a 12-round majority decision win against former world champion Kid Galahad last September.

In the 10-round co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (8-0, 6 KOs) takes a seismic step up in class against Belgian contender and former European champion Francesco Patera (28-3, 10 KOs).

Davis, from Norfolk, Virginia, went 3-0 in the pro ranks before capturing a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. In his most recent outing, the 24-year-old outclassed Anthony Yigit en route to a ninth-round TKO. Davis looks to continue his rapid lightweight ascent against his stiffest test to date.

Patera is an eight-year pro from Belgium. Since 2017, the 30-year-old has won 10 straight fights and is coming off a first-round knockout against Irakli Shariashvili in April.

The undercard streams exclusively on ESPN+.

ESPN’s Joe Tessitore will call the action with Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr. Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna?will serve as reporters.

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Kambosos, Jr. vs. Hughes (all times ET)

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(July 6, 2023) – Former unified and lineal lightweight world champion George Kambosos Jr. is determined to reclaim his throne at the top of the division.
 
Kambosos returns in a 12-round IBF world title eliminator against 33-year-old English southpaw Maxi Hughes on Saturday, July 22, at FireLake Arena in Shawnee, Oklahoma.
 
Kambosos-Hughes and a 10-round lightweight co-feature between U.S. Olympic phenom Keyshawn Davis and Francesco Patera will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Kambosos (20-2, 10 KOs) is a 10-year pro who reached the top of the lightweight division with a stunning decision win over Teofimo Lopez in November 2021 that was named ESPN’s Upset of the Year. In 2022, the 30-year-old avoided an easy hometown defense and instead faced Devin Haney in back-to-back undisputed world title showdowns in Melbourne, Australia. Following his first career losses, Kambosos has his eyes set on becoming champ again. Hughes (26-5-2, 5 KOs) has won seven straight fights. Last September, he beat former world champion Kid Galahad via 12-round majority decision.

Following a recent training session, this is what Kambosos had to say:

“I’m away from any distractions [here in the United States], and I’m sacrificing. When I’m sacrificing, I always bring out this more relentless hunger out of me. I’m going home to a makeshift house that the team is living in, and we’re watching fights and studying fights. If we come up with something, we go into the backyard and start working on it. This a 24/7 warzone. We’re sacrificing with hard work, and July 22, I’m back.”
 
“Since the Devin Haney fights, I’ve gotten sharper. I’ve become a better boxer. I’m better on my feet. I’m better all around. I’ve been able to sit back and add more artillery to the game. I’ve been able to watch so much more footage from different fights. I’m a better fighter.”
 
“I know that Maxi Hughes is coming off a seven-fight win streak against guys that I’ve never really heard of. It’s okay. Whatever he’s coming with, that’s no problem. I’m coming in with what I’m coming in with. Just look at my last three fights. Don’t worry about the wins and losses. Just look at the names. Even prior to that. Look at my last five fights.”
 
“I’m going to make an emphatic statement. I’m going to show that I’m back. I’m going to show that I’ve become a better fighter. I’m going to knock out Maxi Hughes.”
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment and Ferocious Promotions, tickets are on sale at www.stubwire.com.

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.

Josh Warrington became a two-time featherweight world champion as he won the IBF title with a seventh round stoppage over Kiko Martinez in front of a raucous sell out crowd at The First District Arena in Leeds, England.

Warrington almost made it a real early night as he was all over Martinez and dropped him with a hard right hand. Warrington battered and bloodied the left eye of Martinez. Warrington dominated the rest of the fight with the exception of a couple hard rights that were landed by Martinez.

One of the rights may have set Warrington off as he stormed back and beat up Martinez on the ropes until the bout was stopped at 2:12 of round seven.

Warrington, who decisioned Martinez five years ago is now a two-time champion by thrilling his hometown fans and has a record of 31-1-1 with eight knockouts, Martinez of Spain is 43-11-2.

Bridges wins IBF Bantamweight Title from Roman

Ebanie Bridges won the IBF Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maria Cecilia Roman.

Bridges out worked and outhustled Roman on the inside and landed some good punches to the body. Bridges was effective with her uppercut and took the lead from the outset.

Bridges landed 205 of 645 punches; Roman was 156 of 430.

Bridges, 117.3 lbs of New South Wales, AUS won by scores of 100-91 and 97-93 twice and is now 8-1. Roman, 116.4 lbs of San Juan, ARG was a five year-champion, who had made seven defenses is now 16-6-1.

“I am feeling proud of myself and everything that I sacrificed has been worth it. This belt means all of the sacrifice and training. I was so happy for that kind of fight. I hope the fight was entreating. Cecilia brough the fight. I am grateful to win the title in this great city of Leeds,” said Bridges,

Hughes decisions Walsh

Maxi Hughes won a 12-round unanimous decision over Ryan Walsh in a lightweight contest.

In round three, Walsh was cut over left uppercut that was ruled from a punch.

Hughes landed 163 of 610 punches; Walsh was 79 of 614.

Hughes, 133.5 lbs of Rossington, ENG won by scores of 120-108, 119-109 and 118-110 and is now 25-5-2. Walsh, 134.4 lbs of Cromer, ENG is 23-4-2.

Smith Stops Moylette in 10

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with a 10th round stoppage over Roy Moylette in a junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Moylette started to swell under his left eye.

In round seven, Smith was deducted two points for a low blow.

In round 10, Smith landed a hard left that sent Moylette to the canvas. Seconds later, it was another left hook that sent Moylette down again and the fight was stopped at 49 seconds.

Smith, 139.25 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is now 10-0 with eight knockouts. Moylette, 139.2 lbs of Islandeady, ENG is 12-2.

Nicholson Decisions Connolly

2021 Australian Olympian Skye Nicholson remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Bec Connolly in a featherweight bout.

In round five, Connolly began to bleed from her nose.

Connolly, 127.2 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by a 60-54 score and is now 2-0. Connolly, 127 lbs of Swindon, ENG is 3-12.

Cory O’Regan won a six-round decision over Jakub Laskowski in a lightweight bout.

O’Regan, 137.4 lbs of Heckmondwike, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 6-0. Laskowski, 137.3 lbs of Siemianowice, POL is 4-14-1,

Mali Wright won a four-round decision over Luis Palmer in a light heavyweight bout.

Wright, 186.25 lbs of Leeds, UK won by a 39-38 scores and is now 2-0-1. Palmer, 186 lbs of Huddersfield, ENG is 0-1-1.

Callum French stopped Angelo Turco in round three of their six-round super lightweight bout.

French dominated the action and hurt Turco several ties before the fight was stopped just as the towel came in at 1:11,

French, 137.5 lbs of Gateshead, ENG is 2-0 with one knockout. Turco, 140.1 lbs of Quaragnon, BEL is 8-24-2.

Mauricio Lara and former world champion Josh Warrington fought to a technical draw after a clash of heads opened up a cut over Lara’s left eye after two rounds at Headlingley Rugby Stadium in Leeds, England.

The fight was just starting to open up when the headbutt occurred. The fight was a rematch of a contest that saw Lara knockout Warrington in February.

Lara, 125 1/2 lbs of Mexico City is now 23-2-1. Warrington of Leeds, ENG is 30-1-1.

Taylor Decisions Han; Retains Undisputed Lightweight Title

Katie Taylor retained the undisputed Lightweight world championship with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jennifer Han.

In round eight, Taylor dropped Han with a left hook. Replays showed that it could have been a slip. Han also started to swell under her right eye in the round.

Taylor landed 93 of 340 punches; Han was 66 of 338.

Taylor, 134 3/4 lbs of Bray, IRE won by scores of 100-89 on all cards, and is now 19-0. Han, 134 1/4 lbs of El Paso, TEX is now 18-4-1-1.

Benn Decisions Granados

Conor Benn remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision in a welterweight bout.

Benn landed 152 of 460 punches; Granados was 99 of 429.

Benn, 146 1/2 lbs of Brentwood, ENG won by scores of and is now 19-0. Granados, 146 1/2 lbs of Chicago, IL is 21-9-3.

Hughes Decisions Straffon

Maxi Hughes pounded out a 12-round unanimous decision over Jovanni Straffon in a lightweight bout.

Hughes hurt Straffon on several occasions including almost having him out in round four.

Hughes, 134 1/4 lbs of Rossington, ENG won by scores of 120-107 twice and 119-109 and is now 24-5-2. Straffon, 134 1/4 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 24-4-1.

Bridges Decisions Gangloff

Ebanie Bridges won an eight-round decision over Mailys Gangloff in a bantamweight fight.

Bridges, 118 lbs of New South wales, AUS fought through a welled right eye and injured right hand but still won by a 77-76 score and is now 7-1. Gangloff, 116 lbs of Aix-les-Bains, FRA is 5-3.

Hope Price remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage of Zahid Hussain in a scheduled 10-round super bantamweight fight.

Just as the bell rang to end round one, Price landed a perfect right hook that clipped the jaw and sent Hussain on his backside. Fortunately for Hussain, he got to his feet to end the round. In round two, it was a combination that put Hussain down for a 2nd time. Price finished the fight with a barrage of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 2:33.

Price, 121 3/4 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 6-0 with two knockouts. Hussain, 121 lbs of Leeds, ENG is 16-2.

Jack Bateson survived a knockdown to win a six-round decision over Felix Garcia in a super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Garcia dropped Bateson with a looping right hand to the chest. Bateson was about to steady himself and win the rest of the fight.

Bateson, 124 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a 58-56 score and is now 14-0. Garica, 123 lbs of Juigalpa, NIC is now 7-3-1.

Brandon Stansfield won a four-round decision over MJ Hall in a super welterweight bout.

Stansfield, 149 1/2 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 2-0. Hall, 148 1/2 lbs of Brierley Hill, ENG is 2-62-2.

In round one, Hall began to bleed from his nose.

Mali Wright made a successful pro debut with a stoppage of Antony Woolery after round two of their scheduled four-round light heavyweight bout.

Wright, 180 bs of Chapeltown, England is 1-0 with one knockout. Woolery, 181 3/4 lbs of Wolverhampton, England is 2-7.

Maxi Hughes wants to keep his Cinderella story rolling as he challenges Jovanni Straffon for the IBO World Lightweight Title at Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds this Saturday September 4, shown live worldwide on DAZN.

Hughes (23-5-2, 5 KOs) has been in the form of his life through the pandemic, handing Jono Carroll defeat in August, travelling to Dubai two months later to take the WBC International Lightweight Title from Viktor Kotochigov and then realised a dream by landing the vacant British Title in March by stopping Paul Hyland Jr in Bolton to win the Lord Lonsdale belt at the third attempt.

The Doncaster man, who trains alongside main event star Josh Warrington under the guidance of Sean O’Hagan, now tackles a highly motivated Straffon for the IBO Title on the biggest stage of his career. The Mexican is familiar to UK fight fans after his stunning first round KO of James Tennyson to win the title in Manchester in May, but Hughes says he won’t allow his train to be delayed and wants victory tonight to stamp his ticket to a dream fight in America.

“I didn’t see this coming a year or 18 months ago,” said Hughes. “A year ago I was brought in as an opponent to keep Jono Carroll busy, now I am two titles up and fighting for a World Title, the Cinderella man. It cannot get better.

“You get older, wiser and mature as a person and that’s a part of the success too, and happiness of course. Things fall into place and if you want something bad enough, go and get it. I came close twice to walking away, losing to Sam Bowen was the first one and it was hard to swallow. I had a six-month break and got the hunger back, but when I lost to Liam Walsh I was gutted. It was a close fight but the right man won, and I just thought to myself ‘I am never going to be good enough to win these domestic fights’. The four-hour journey on the way home with Josh, Sean and Reece Mould, just talking about stuff, and then having a few days rest, I thought, ‘I will be good enough, I will get there, I will win something’.

“I’ve known Josh and Sean a long time, sparred with Josh for years and Sean has always been there as another voice and eyes in the corner. We we’re familiar with each other anyway but the link up came because I live in Wakefield and the gym is close by, with having a young daughter it made sense so that I don’t have so far to travel to the gym and I can spend more time at home with her. It makes me a better and happier fighter because the work and home life balance is great. We get on and have a laugh, and Sean has found a way to bring out the best in me, the results speak for themselves, it’s been three years now and we’re just getting better and better as a team, and we have everything we need to produce results. 

“I know James Tennyson, I’ve sparred many rounds with him, and I don’t think he was 100 per cent in there. We’ve seen him better than that but that doesn’t take away from Straffon. What you see is what you get from him, even if that fight hadn’t happened and his name came up to fight me, we wouldn’t have approached it differently. Mexicans are known for being tough and his record shows he’s a puncher. So, we’ve done our homework, prepared well and we’ll take it round by round and adapt. I just hope I come out with some credit, he looks a million dollars with the win over James so if I turn him over, I don’t want people to say ‘oh maybe he wasn’t that good’ because no one else is in a rush to fight him.”

Straffon vs. Hughes is part of a huge night of action in Leeds, Mauricio Lara (23-2, 16 KOs) and Josh Warrington (30-1, 7 KOs) face each other again in a huge rematch for the Featherweight division, Undisputed Lightweight ruler Katie Taylor (18-0, 6 KOs) defends her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine crowns against her latest Mandatory Challenger Jennifer Han (18-3-1, 1 KOs), rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) faces Adrian Granados (21-8-3, 15 KOs) after their Fight Camp Week 1 headliner fell through, Australia’s Ebanie Bridges (6-1, 3 KOs) looks to build on her impressive KO win over Bec Connolly at Fight Camp earlier this month when she meets Mailys Gangloff (5-2, 2 KOs), Super-Bantamweight prospect Hopey Price (5-0, 1 KO) steps up against Zahid Hussain (16-1, 2 KOs) in an all-Leeds clash, undefeated Super-Bantamweight talent Jack Bateson (13-0, 3 KOs) clashes with Felix Garcia (7-2-1, 3 KOs) over six rounds, 1-0 Super-Welterweight Brandon Stansfield takes on MJ Hall (2-61-2) and Light-Heavyweight Mali Wright makes his pro debut against Antony Woolery (2-6).

Limited remaining tickets are available from StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk).

Maxi Hughes won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Viktor Kotochigov in a lightweight fight at Creasers Palace in Dubai.

In round three, Hughes dropped Kotochigov with a hard left uppercut to the chin.

Hughes, 135 lbs won by scores of 97-92, 96-93 and 95-94 and is now 22-5-2. Kotochigov, 135 lbs is 12-1.

Heralded amateur Hovhannes Bachkov made a successful pro debut with an eight-round unanimous decision over Samuel Gonzalez in a super lightweight fight.

Bachkov, 142 lbs of Armenia won by shutout scores of 80-72 and is now 1-0. Gonzalez, 142 lbs is 22-7.

Faizan Anwar remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over JR Mendoza in a super lightweight fight.

Anwar, 152 lbs of India won by scores of 60-53 on all cards and is now 5-0. Mendoza, 152 lbs of Philippines is 11-20.

Mohamad Abdelghany won six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Blane Hyland in a bantamweight bout.

Abdelghany won by scores of 58-57 and 58-56 twice and is now 4-2. Hyland, 116 lbs is 3-1.

(October 7, 2020) — Lightweight contender Viktor Kotochigov will defend his WBC International belt against British contender Maxi Hughes in the 10-round main event Friday, Oct. 9 from Caesars Bluewaters Dubai. Kotochigov-Hughes and undercard contests — the Rotunda Rumble IV — will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ beginning at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT.
 
Kotochigov (12-0, 5 KOs), from Kazakhstan, won the vacant WBC International belt last July with a unanimous decision over Jairo Lopez. A world traveler, he’s fought in seven countries since turning pro in December 2015. He last fought Aug. 23 and knocked out Belarusian veteran Andrei Isayeu in three rounds. Hughes (21-5-2, 4 KOs), from Rossington, England is coming off an upset decision victory Aug. 12 over longtime contender Jono Carroll. The Carroll win marked a turning point in the 10-year career of Hughes, who previously fell short in bids for the British super featherweight, WBC International super featherweight and WBO European lightweight titles.
 
In other streaming action on ESPN+:

• Armenian amateur superstar Hovhannes Bachkov will make his professional debut in an eight-round junior welterweight bout against 28-fight Venezuelan veteran Samuel Gonzalez (22-6, 13 KOs). Bachkov, a two-time World Championships bronze medalist (2017 and 2019), represented Armenia at the 2016 Rio Olympics and won a gold medal at the 2017 European Championships in Kharkiv, Ukraine.
   
• Junior welterweight knockout artist Faizan Anwar (4-0, 4 KOs), a 19-year-old from Calcutta, India, will take on JR Mendoza (11-19, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder. The durable Mendoza has not been knocked out since 2012.
   
• Junior bantamweight prospect Blane Hyland (3-0), from Liverpool, England, will fight Mohamed Salah Abdelghany (3-2) in a six-rounder.

 
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Maxi Hughes won a 10-round unanimous decision over Former world title challenger Jono Carroll in a lightweight bout in Yorkshire, England.

Hughes, 136 1/4 lbs won by scores of 96-95 twice and 97-93 to go to is 21-5-2.Carroll, 137 3/4 lbs is now 18-2-1

Sean McComb won a 10-round unanimous decision over Siar Ozgul in a super lightweight bout.

In round six, McComb started to bleed from the nose and over his right eye.

McComb, 139 1/4 lbs of Belfast won by scores of 99-92 and 97-93 twice and is now 11-0. Ozgul, 140 1/4 lbs is 15-5.

Shair Iqbel won a eight-round unanimous decision over Maredudd Thomas in a welterweight bout.

Iqbel, 147 lbs of Bolton won by scores of 78-75, 78-76 and 78-74 and is now 8-0. Thomas 146 3/4 lbs is 11-1.

Pierce O’Leary stopped Jacob Quinn in round four of their scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

O’Leary ended things with a hard left hook that sent Quinn to his knees. The bout was stopped upon Quinn getting to his feet at 24 seconds.

O’Leary, 142 1/4 lbs of Dublin, IRE is 5-0 with two knockouts. Quinn, 141 3/4 lbs is 4-1.

Craig McIntyre stopped Ishmael Ellis in round five of their scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout

In round four, Mcintyre dropped Ellis with a body shot.

In round five, Mcintyre continued to land hard right hands, and the fight was stopped at 2:49.

Mcintyre, 143 1/2 lbs is 12-0-1 with five knockouts. Ellis, 141 3/4 lbs is 11-3.

(August 10, 2020) – Midweek boxing comes to ESPN+ this Wednesday with the return of former world title challenger Jono Carroll, who will face off against veteran Maxi Hughes in the 10-round lightweight main event.
 
The closed-door #MTKFightNight event will take place at Production Park Studios in Wakefield, England, and will stream live beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.
 
Carroll (18-1-1, 4 KOs), from Dublin, lost a unanimous decision to Tevin Farmer for the IBF junior lightweight world title in March 2019, but he’s since won two consecutive bouts. The southpaw pressure fighter kicked off his 2020 campaign in March with a knockout over former world champion Scott Quigg in Manchester, England. The result sent Quigg into retirement and re-inserted Carroll into the world title picture. Hughes (20-5-2, 4 KOs) is a two-time British title challenger who is best known to UK fight fans for his action-packed trilogy against Martin Joseph Ward. He is 3-2 in his last five bouts, including a decision loss to former world title challenger Liam Walsh last November.

In other action on the ESPN+ stream:

• “Sugar” Sean McComb (10-0, 5 KOs), aka “The Public Nuisance,” will fight former  Southern Area champion Siar Ozgul (15-4, 3 KOs) in a 10-round junior welterweight bout. McComb announced he will campaign at lightweight following the Ozgul fight.
   
• In an eight-round battle featuring a pair of unbeaten welterweights, former British amateur sensation Sahir Iqbal (7-0, 1 KO) will take on Welsh prospect Maredudd Thomas (11-0, 2 KOs).
   
• Dublin-born prospect Pierce “Big Bang” O’Leary (4-0, 1 KO) will face off against Jacob Quinn (4-0) in a scheduled six-rounder contracted for 143 pounds.
   
• Craig MacIntyre (11-0-1, 4 KOs) will fight Ishmael Ellis (11-2) in an eight-round welterweight tilt.