COSTA MESA, CA (June 1, 2017) – Former world title challenger, Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (42-5-4, 34 KOs), was victorious in his comeback fight at the “Fight Club OC” card in Costa Mesa, CA, winning by third round KO over Mexico’s Martin Angel Martinez (17-12-1, 11 KOs).

From the opening round Farenas was the aggressor, as he came forward landing his signature over hand left, which dropped Martinez midway through round one. As the fight went on, Farenas continued to land his overhand left, wearing down Martinez. In round three, Farenas landed a barrage of punches that send Martinez to the canvas for good. The knockout happened at the 2:04 mark of round three.

“I felt very good going into this fight and it showed in my performance,” said Michael Farenas. “I felt I gave the fans the fans a great show. My goal now is to get back into world title contention in the lightweight division. I feel much stronger at this weight. I’m hoping to get back in the ring by the end of the summer.”

COSTA MESA, CA (May 31, 2017) – Having tipped the scale at 141.5 lbs., former world title challenger, Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (44-5-4, 33 KOs), is ready to make his comeback fight a success. Farenas, who hails from Gubat, Sorsogon, Philippines, will face Mexico’s Martin Angel Martinez (17-11-1, 11 KOs) who weighed in at 140.5 lbs.

The 8-ronund bout will take place on the “Fight Club OC” card at The Hanger at the OC Fair & Event Center located at 88 Fair Dr. Costa Mesa, CA 92626. The “Fight Club OC” card, scheduled for this Thursday June 1, 2017, will be aired live on www.FITE.TV for only $9.99.

Tickets for the Thursday, June 1st Fight Club OC show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA are on sale at www.fightcluboc.com.

Four solid pro boxing bouts and two very solid pro mixed martial arts bouts are set for next Thursday’s Fight Club OC show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center. The June 1st show will be highlighted by an eight-round featured bout starring lightweight contender 41-5 Michael Farenas. The Filipino who goes by the nickname “Hammer Fist” has been inactive for the past 16 months but now has moved to Los Angeles with a new trainer and management, and is ready to get back in the lightweight title picture. Farenas will face Mexicali’s tough Oscar Mora in this solid eight round bout.

The June 1st Fight Club OC show will also feature the pro boxing debut of Irvine High School and Cal State San Marcos graduate De’Von Abraham facing another pro debut in Brennan Benton out of Riverside. Plus two other boxers will debut when Nathan Weston from Monrovia faces Costa Mesa’s Arian Sharifi.

A unique matchup will see two former MMA fighters making their pro boxing debuts against each other, when Laguna Beach’s Donte Stubbs meets Alameda’s Anthony Taylor.

The MMA portion of Fight Club OC will see 12-11 Danny Davis Jr face 6-1 Anthony Hernandez from Alhambra in a great matchup, and Lakewood’s 2-1 Matt Martinez facing Huntington Beach’s tough Kory Kelly.

Anthony Hernandez from Alhambra faces Danny Davis Jr. June 1st

Tickets all priced at $60 are available at www.fightcluboc.com.

The Hangar doors open at 6:30pm, first bout at 7pm, and the Fight Club OC Cigar Lounge opens at 7:10pm.

Rumble On The Water
Opening Night – June 10th

During some of the historic crossings passengers were treated aboard the Queen Mary to a boxing match that would be conducted between crew members as they would climb into the ring to go a few rounds. Today the Queen Mary continues in that grand tradition of providing unique entertainment offerings by teaming up with Roy Englebrecht Promotions to bring to the Queen Mary property a local version of the Mixed Martial Arts competition with Rumble on the Water. Set with the spectacular view of Downtown Long Beach and the harbor in the background, local Southern California MMA fighters will come together in the cage to demonstrate a true sense of raw determination to see who will be left standing. Rumble on the Water will take place over three dates this summer when local MMA fighters come to compete on June 10th, July 22nd and September 16th. The Queen Mary is one of the most unique destinations for an MMA event as we introduce to Southern California Rumble on the Water.

For tickets visit www.queenmary.com

They say it’s never too late to start a comeback, and for lightweight contender Michael Farenas (41-5-4, 33KOs) the comeback starts Thursday, June 1st when he enters the ring for the first time in nearly two years. The seven round bout will take place on Roy Englebrecht’s FIGHT CLUB OC show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA.

Having fought some of the top jr. lightweights in the world over the past five years, which include Yuriorkis Gamboa, Jose Padraza, and Fernando Beltran to name a few, Farenas believes he still has some gas left in his tank.

Michael Farenas against Yuriorkis Gamboa

“It’s been a long journey to get back in the ring, but now that time has come,” said Michael Farenas. “I’m in great shape and I feel my skill and experience will help on my comeback.”

Also set to perform on the Thursday, June 1st show that will feature both pro boxing and pro mixed martial arts will be a TOP MMA bout between tough 8-8 MMA veteran Huntington Beach’s John Mercurio vs 6-1 Anthony Hernandez out of Alhambra….undefeated 4-0 boxer La Habra’s Sergio Quiroz vs Mexico’s Jose Fabian Naranjo….and Lakewood’s Matt Martinez at 2-1 meeting Burbank’s tough Hakop Ter-Petrosyan in what will be a stand up MMA brawl.

John Mercurio delivering an elbow to Matt Lagler at FCOC on 4/6/16

The June 1st show will also see the pro debut of six boxers, including three from Orange County. Stepping into the ring for the first time as a pro will be Irvine High graduate De’Von Abraham vs Riverside’s Brennan Benton; Laguna Beach’s Donte Stubbs a former mma pro turning to boxing vs San Bernardino’s Leonard Ruiz; and Costa Mesa’s Arian Sharifi another mma pro turning to boxing vs Monrovia’s Nathan Weston.

De’Von Abraham an Irvine High grad and amateur champion

Tickets for the Thursday, June 1st Fight Club OC show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA are on sale at www.fightcluboc.com.

COSTA MESA, CA (May 2, 2017) – They say it’s never is too late to start a comeback, and for lightweight contender Michael Farenas (44-5-4, 33Kos), the comeback starts Thursday, June 1
st when he enters the ring for the first time in nearly two years. The eight-round bout will take place on Roy Englebrecht’s “Fight Club OC” show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA.

Having fought some of the top Jr. lightweight out there over the past five years, which include Yuriorkis Gamboa, Jose Padraza, and Fernando Beltran to name a few, Farenas believes he still has some gas left in his tank.

“It’s been a long journey to get back in the ring, but now that time has come,” said Michael Farenas. “I’m in great shape and I feel my skill and experience will help me on my comeback.”

Will new managers Bill Halkias and Germaine Gillies crafting his career and new trainers Marvin Somodio and Jesse Arevalo in his corner, the new look Farenas will have another opportunity to march toward a world title.

“This bout will take place at one hundred and forty pounds, but my plan is to campaign at lightweight,” said Farenas, who fought Takashi Uchiyama for the WBA World super featherweight title. “I know with hard work, I can make another run toward another world title.”
Under new management and a new trainer, “Hammer Fist” as he is called, will look to bring that Filipino fighting spirit back to his career.

Tickets for the Thursday, June 1st Fight Club OC show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA are on sale at www.fightcluboc.com.

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 14, 2016) – Filipino fighters Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (41-5-4, 33 KOs) and Marc “El Gwapo” Pagcaliwangan (9-0-1, 7 KOs) have signed promotional contracts with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. Both fighters, who are managed by SMG and Platinum Timing (owned and operated by Germaine Gillies), are scheduled to make their Star Boxing debuts in early 2017.

A former world title contender, Farenas, who started his career as a bantamweight, will now be campaigning at lightweight. Trained by Marvin Somodio at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card gym, Farenas is a stablemate of superstar Manny Pacquiao. Having won his last two fights, the Philippine born fighter has not been in the ring since October of 2015. With his new management team and promoter, his goal is to get back into world title contention with the possibility of fighting for a world title by the end of 2017.

“I’m very pleased to be fighting under the Star Boxing banner,” said Michael Farenas. “I want to thank my co-mangers, Bill and Germaine, for believing in me. I know I have a lot of fight left in me and I know that I’m fighting at lightweight (135 lbs.). I’m a stronger fighter today and I’m looking forward to a new beginning with my new team in place.”

Pagcaliwangan, who is of Philippine decent, but born in Ontario, Canada, will be campaigning at super-bantamweight. His last fight was in April of 2015, so he too will be looking to stay busy in the upcoming year.

“With all my fights, having been fought in Canada, I’m really looking forward to making my USA debut with Star Boxing,” said Marc Pagcaliwangan. “I have a solid management team now so I know I’ll have all the proper support to make my march toward a world title. I plan to relocate to Oxnard, CA, in the beginning of 2017 and start training with my new coach Robert Garcia. I can’t wait to get back in the in the ring.”

“SMG is very proud to have two hard hitters, in Farenas and Pagcaliwangan, join our team,” said SMG’s Bill Halkias. “Both fighters possess the power, speed and skills to become world champions.”

PUERTO RICO (November 20, 2014) – After his dominating performance against Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-5-4, 31 KOs), Puerto Rican star and IBO super-featherweight champion, Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (19-0, 12 KOs), is elated that he’s become the mandatory challenger to face IBF champion Rances Barthelemy (21-0, 12 KOs).

“I’m very excited about my future and I’m very thankful to my promoters Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo for getting me the fights I needed to become the mandatory challenger to fight for the IBF title.” said Pedraza. “I’ve been getting a lot of support from my people here in Puerto Rico and it feels great to be loved by them. I’ve already started training as I’m eager to get back in the ring. I’m ready to fight Rances Barthelemy and bring home the IBF title.”

Promoter Gary Shaw was amazed on how well Pedraza picked apart Farenas in their bout. He feels Pedraza soared from a fighter on the rise to one of the best fighters in the 130lbs division.

“Pedraza was absolutely outstanding in his fight with Farenas,” said Gary Shaw. “He looked fantastic. He has the rare ability to make adjustments in the ring against any style. He proved he can hang with the big boys. Farenas is a big puncher and Pedraza negated everything he brought to the table. Pedraza graduated from top prospect, to world title contender in one terrific performance. I believe he is the top 130 pounder in the world, and come early 2015 will prove it when he fights for the world title.”

Pedraza is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions.

PUERTO RICO (November 14, 2014) – Tonight at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions’ undefeated IBO super featherweight champion, Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (19-0, 12 KOs) dazzled his hometown fans winning an astounding 12-round unanimous decision against top Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-5-4, 31 KOs). With the win, Pedraza moves into the mandatory position to fight IBF world champion, Rances Barthelemy (21-0, 12 KOs) as this fight was an IBF elimination bout.

Pedraza got into a grove in the early rounds and mounted a sustainable lead as he used his superior boxing skills to pick apart Farenas who was coming forward. As the fight entered the middle rounds, Pedraza continued to box and use lateral movement to win rounds. Farenas had his moments as he landed a few big power shots, but nothing that would prevent Pedraza from executing his game plan. In the championship rounds Farenas came on strong, but it was too late as Pedraza ended strong to keep his lead intact. Scorecards read 117-111, 118-110 and 116-112, all in favor for Pedraza.

“This was a great win for the people of Puerto Rico and I’m very happy with my performance,” said Jose Pedraza. “I knew if I stuck to my game plan which was to box and punch off angles I would be victorious. I want to thank my promoters Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo for all their support. I’m ready to challenge Rances Barthelemy for the world title. I know I can bring home another championship to my countrymen in Puerto Rico.”

“Pedraza boxed beautifully tonight and proved he’s one of the best super-featherweights in the world,” said Gary Shaw. “There is no doubt in my mind he has what it takes to unify all the world titles at 130lbs. He’s now the mandatory challenger to face IBF champion Rances Barthelemy. DiBella, Bustillo and I will start working on the matchup right away. I think it’s a fantastic fight for the fans.”

PUERTO RICO (November 5, 2014) – Top rated super-featherweight contender, Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (18-0, 12 KOs) is wrapping up his final days of training camp as he prepares for his upcoming IBF elimination bout against Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-4-4, 31 KOs).

Promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions’, Pedraza will face Farenas at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 14, 2014. The 12-round bout will be televised on DirecTV in Puerto Rico only. Check your local listing for more details.

“I’m ready to show the world that I’m ready to take on all comers and on November 14 I will showcase my skills and qualities in the ring,” said Pedraza. “The training is done and now it’s time to focus on making weight. Farenas represents exactly what we wanted. He is a strong, world-class opponent. I will use every weapon in my arsenal to come out on top. I will give all Puerto Rico a great victory.”

Promoter Gary Shaw feels Pedraza is on the verge of super stardom as he states, “I believe Jose Pedraza is the best 130 pounder in boxing. He has all the ability to fight against any style. He’s very popular in his native land of Puerto Rico and I feel he’s on the threshold of some really big fights. Farenas is a big step up but I know Pedraza will be ready for the challenge.”

PUERTO RICO (October 9, 2014) – Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions’ undefeated IBO super featherweight champion and Puerto Rican sensation Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (18-0, 12 KOs) and Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-4-4, 31 KOs) have finalized their IBF elimination bout scheduled for November 14, 2014, at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The 12-round bout will be televised on DirecTV in Puerto Rico only. Check your local listing for more details.

Currently ranked WBA #4, WBC #5 and IBF #6, Pedraza will put everything on the line against Farenas, who is currently rated IBF #2, for a chance to fight the current IBF world champion Rances Barthelemy (21-0, 12 KOs).

Pedraza, who has knocked out five of his last seven opponents, is excited about the opportunity to showcase his talents at home in Puerto Rico where all of his fans will be able to see him fight live.

“I’ve worked very hard to get into this position and I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Pedraza. “I want to thank Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo for bringing this fight to Puerto Rico. I love my people and I can’t wait to give them a great show. Farenas is a very powerful puncher, but I feel my boxing skills will prevail and I’ll be victorious.”

Riding a five-fight knockout streak, Farenas possesses immense power in both hands. With the advantage in experience, Farenas feels that he has the knowledge to figure out Pedraza, who is a slick boxer-puncher.

“Pedraza brings a great skill set to the ring, but I have twice as many fights as him and my experience will benefit me in this fight,” said Farenas. “I have more knockouts than he has wins, so I feel very confident going into this bout. Fighting in Puerto Rico will be something new for me, but I look forward to the challenge of beating Pedraza in front of his countrymen.”

“Pedraza vs. Farenas is a great fight for the fans,” said Gary Shaw. “Javier Bustillo, Lou DiBella and I have groomed Pedraza for this moment. We both feel that he’s the next great champion to come out of Puerto Rico. Farenas is a very dangerous fighter because he can end the fight with one punch. With that being said, Pedraza must utilize his superior boxing skills to counter the punching power of Farenas. This is a great matchup, one that I believe Pedraza will win though.”

“When it comes to pure skill and ring intelligence, Pedraza is right there with the best of them,” Lou DiBella stated. “Both fighters are on a roll having knocked out many of their recent opponents. This is the type of fight that boxing fans look forward to. I’m confident in Pedraza’s ability to outbox Farenas and secure a victory in front of his countrymen.”

“When you think of great fighters that have come from Puerto Rico, Pedraza is someone that has the talent to follow in their footsteps,” said Javier Bustillo. “On November 14th, the people of Puerto Rico will get the opportunity to see Pedraza fight live against a very perilous opponent in Farenas. This is what boxing is all about…great fights!”

Michael Farenas earned a Super Featherweight title shot with an impressive 8th round stoppage over previously undefeated Mark Davis at the Foxwoods Resort in Connecticut.

Farenas came firing with the left hand from his southpaw stance He landed several hard left’s that caused a cut over Davis right eye in the first frame. Davis had a better 2nd round until he was caught with a hard left just before the bell. After a back and forth round three, Davis came out in round four by landing quick combinations. In round five, Farenas landed a flush left that wobbled Davis all over the ring just before the end of the frame. It was more of the same in round six as Farenas continued to land hard shots on Davis.

In round eight, a series of hard blows rocked Davis into the corner and referee Steve Smoger stopped the bout at 59 seconds of round eight.

Faranes, 130 lbs of the Philippines is now 39-4-4 with 31 knockouts. Davis, 130 lbs of Cleveland, OH is now 18-1.

Former world champion Billy Dib scored a 10-round unanimous decision over Alberto Garza in a Jr. Lightweight bout.

Dib was cut over the right eye in round one from a headbutt. Dib landed a some nice shots over the first few rounds. Although not looking pretty, Garza started getting in some counter shots. Dib came back to finsih strong in the final round as he landed some solid left hands behind a stiff jab.

Dib, 131 lbs of Sydney, Australia eon by scores of 98-91 and 96-93 twice and is now 37-3. Garza, 131 lbs of Mexico City is now 26-8-1.

Ryan Martin scored a 4-round unanimous decision over Matthew Baca in a Lightweight bout.

Martin dominated the fight for three rounds with pure boxing. In round four, Martin unleashed a few thudding power shots and and won by scores of 40-36 on all cards.

Martin, 135 lbs of Chattanooga, TN is now 7-0. Baca, 135 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is now 4-2-1.

Earlier tonight, two of the brightest young stars on the DiBella Entertainment roster, Junior “Sugar Boy” Younan and Louis “Cruise Control” Cruz, stayed unbeaten, winning dominant unanimous decisions in separate bouts to open up 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions card at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT.

The 18-year-old phenom Younan was taken the distance for the first time in his young career, scoring a shutout over tough-as-nails Azamat Umarzoda. The super middleweight Younan got in some much-needed rounds, having previously scored four consecutive first-round knockouts in two minutes or less. The “boxing prodigy”, as Younan was referred to in a NY Times article written on him when he was just 10 years old, showed the total package, displaying lightning quick hands and combination punching to both the body and head, as well as amazing footwork and defensive movement. It was an impressive showing for the Brooklyn-native, who improved to a perfect 5-0, 4KO’s, with the four-round unanimous decision. Younan will be back in action on an upcoming DiBella Entertainment Broadway Boxing card this summer in NYC.

The Bronx-native Cruz lived up to his nickname cruising to a six-round unanimous decision over Ryan Picou in their super lightweight matchup. Cruz displayed a piston-like jab that kept Picou off balance for much of the fight. Cruz pressed the action throughout and was the much busier of the two, as Picou was content to stay on the outside, looking to score with single shots. In the end, all three judges scored the bout in Cruz’s favor, with scorecards of 59-55 twice, and 58-56. With the win, Cruz improved to a perfect 8-0, 4KO’s, and, like Younan, will be featured on an upcoming DiBella Entertainment Broadway Boxing card this summer in NYC.

Two of CES Boxing’s most prized prospects from Connecticut kept their unbeaten records intact Wednesday on the undercard of SMS Promotions’ special edition ESPN Friday Night Fights card at Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Female super bantamweight Shelito Vincent of New London improved her record to 12-0 with a majority decision win over Nydia Feliciano (7-6-3) of the Bronx while New Haven welterweight Jimmy Williams upped his record to 7-0-1 and won for the second time in five weeks by beating fellow Bronx native Stephen Owusu (8-6, 4 KOs) by unanimous decision.

Similar to their first go-round in January of 2013, Vincent and Feliciano traded blows over six hard rounds with Vincent earning the narrow victory by scores of 59-55, 58-56, 57-57. The first meeting between the two ended with a unanimous decision win for Vincent, 59-55 and 58-56 on the other two scorecards.

Williams continued his impressive run in a six-round bout against the battle-tested Owusu, dropping his opponent in the second round en route to a 59-54, 60-53, 57-56. Williams is now unbeaten in his last three fights since a draw against Greg Jackson in 2013. The streak includes a first-round knockout win over fellow Connecticut fighter Christian Lao in May.

While Williams and Vincent held true to form, the televised portion of last night’s card featured a thrilling upset in the main event. Southpaw Michael Farenas stopped previously unbeaten Mark Davis in the eighth round of their scheduled 12-round International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior lightweight title eliminator.

Junior lightweight Billy Dib outworked former world champion Alberto Galarza in a 96-93, 96-93, 98-91 unanimous decision win and Cranston, R.I., welterweight Nick DeLomba upset New Haven’s Edwin Soto, winning a 58-56, 59-55, 57-57 majority decision, handing Soto only his second loss in 13 fights.

CES Boxing returns Sept. 12, 2014 at Twin River Casino in Lincoln, R.I. For ticket information, or for more information on Vincent and Williams’ next bouts, visit www.cesboxing.com, follow CES Boxing on Twitter at @CESBOXING and Instagram at CESBOXING, or “like” CES Boxing on Facebook by clicking the corresponding link.

WHAT: “50 Cent’s Birthday Bash”

WHEN: Wednesday, July 2, 2014

WHERE: Grand Theater at Fox Tower, Foxwoods Resorts Casino, Mashantucket, Connecticut

WHO: MAIN EVENT – IBF WORLD JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR (12) – ESPN
MARK “Too Sharp” DAVIS(18-0), Cleveland, Ohio 130 LBS.
vs.
MICHAEL “Hammer Fist” FARENAS (38-4-4, 30 KOs), Paranaque City, Philippines 130 LBS.

(L-R): Michael Farenas-Mark Davis

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (10) – ESPN
BILLY “The Kid” DIB (36-3, 21 KOs), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 131 LBS.
vs.
ALBERTO “Kichis” GARZA(26-7-1, 21 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 131 LBS.

(L-R): Algerto Garza-Billy Dib

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4) – ESPN
RYAN “Blue-Chip” MARTIN (6-0, 3 KOs), Cleveland, OH 135 LBS.
vs.
MATTHEW “Champ” BACA (4-1-1, 2 KOs), Albuquerque, New Mexico 135 LBS.

(L-R): Matthew Baca-Ryan Martin

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
JIMMY WILLIAMS (6-0-1, 3 KOs), New Haven, Connecticut 150 LBS.
vs.
STEPHAN OWUSU(8-6, 4 KOs), Bronx, New York 149 LBS.

FEMALE JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)
SHELLY “Shelito’s Way” VINCENT (11-0, 1 KO), Providence, Rhode Island 123 LBS.
vs.
NYDIA “Da Phenomenal” FELICIANO (7-5-3, 0 KOs), Bronx, New York 123 LBS.

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
NICK DE LOMBA (3-0, 0 KOs), Cranston, Rhode Island 144 LBS.
vs.
EDWIN SOTO (9-1-2, 4 KOs), New Haven, Connecticut by way of Puerto Rico 145 LBS.

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
LUIS CRUZ (7-0, 4 KOs), Bronx, New York 139 LBS.
vs.
RYAN PICOU (1-2, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, Nevada

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)
JUNIOR Sugar Boy” YOUNAN (4-0, 4 KOs), Brooklyn, New York 168 LBS.
vs.
AZAMAT UMARZODA (0-3-1), Las Vegas, Nevada 169 LBS.

PROMOTER: SMS Promotions

TELEVISION: Special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights

TICKETS: $100.00, $75.00 and $45.00 on sale online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office. .

AFTER PARTY: Doors to the after party will open at 10:00 p.m. ET. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office.

DOORS OPEN: 6 p.m. ET FIRST BOUT: 7 p.m. ET ESPN2 BROADCAST: 9-11 p.m. ET

UBER PROMOTION: Uber will provide new Uber users a free ride (up to $20) to fight attendees on behalf of SMS Promotions. See full details below.

Enjoy Your First Free Ride With Uber

How does it work? Using Uber’s free iPhone/Android/Blackberry 7 app, you can request a pickup and a car driven by a professional driver will show up in minutes. Your credit card is billed directly for your trip and there’s no need to tip, so you won’t need to carry cash. You can even see the car coming towards you on a map!

Follow these simple steps to get $20 off your ride:

1. Download the free Uber iPhone/Android/Blackberry 7 app (or sign up at get.uber.com/go/SMSboxing)

2. Enter your information in the Uber app and promo code SMSboxing when you sign up.

3. Request a ride 5 – 15 minutes before you need one. $20 will be applied towards your first ride on uberX, UberBLACK, or UberSUV (excluding uberT, expires 07/04/15, US only)

Uber is now available in over 130 cities worldwide including Providence, Boston, Connecticut and New York City

Questions? Check out uber.com/nyc or email supportNY@uber.com.

New York, NY (6/30/14) – This Wednesday, 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions returns to the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT, for a special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights. Headlining the card will be Mark Davis (18-0, 5KO’s) putting his undefeated record on the line against Michael Farenas (38-4-4, 30KO’s) in a 12-round super featherweight matchup. In the co-feature bout, former world champion Billy Dib looks to get back to his winning ways when he squares off against Alberto Garza (26-7-1, 21KO’s) in a 10-round super featherweight showdown.

Scheduled to appear on the undercard in separate bouts will be two of the brightest young stars on DiBella Entertainment’s loaded roster, highly regarded undefeated prospects Junior “Sugar Boy” Younan (4-0, 4KO’s) (left in photo above) and Louis “Cruise Control” Cruz (7-0, 4KO’s). Younan will take on tough-as-nails Azamat Umarzoda, who is coming off a majority draw against former amateur standout Kareem Martin in a four-round super middleweight matchup. Cruz squares off against Ryan Picou in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

The “boxing prodigy”, as Younan was referred to in a lengthy New York Times
article written on him and his father/trainer Sherif Younan when Younan was just 10 years old, has long been in the spotlight starting with his amateur career. The blue-chip prospect first picked up a pair of gloves at just two years old and by the time he was eight, he was fighting competitively. Compiling an outstanding 90-5 record, the Brooklyn-native won nearly every major tournament that he competed in on both the regional and national level. In addition to winning the National Junior Olympic championship in 2011 (he lost a debated decision in the 2012 finals), the #1-rated amateur was a nine-time Junior Olympics champion, nine-time Junior Metro champion, eight-time NY State Silver Gloves champion, five-time Regional Silver Gloves champion, four-time National Silver Gloves champion, three-time Ringside World champion, three-time National PAL champion and a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion.

The 18-year-old phenom has more than lived up to his hype in his fist four bouts in his first year as a pro, scoring four devastating knockouts, all which have come before the two-minute mark of the very first round. A tough MMA fighter, Umarzoda has fought four consecutive undefeated opponents, and has only been stopped once in his career, his pro debut, and should provide a test for the young rising star.

Like Younan, the 23-year-old Bronx-native Cruz had a stellar amateur career, which saw him win the 2010 NY Golden Gloves, take silver at the 2011 National Golden Gloves and compete at the 2012 US Olympic Trials. Cruz signed with DBE in early 2013, going a perfect 4-0 that year, and has already picked up two impressive victories this year, including a highlight reel first-round knockout over Jose Santiago in January. Cruz is looking for yet another impressive performance when he takes on Picou Wednesday night.

Tickets for the show are still available and are priced at $100, $75 and $45. In addition to the fights, 50 Cent will be celebrating his birthday that same evening and a purchase of the $100 seats gets you into the birthday bash for free. You can purchase tickets through all Ticketmaster outlets or by visiting www.Foxwoods.com

The special Wednesday, July 2 edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra and ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates presentado por Corona Extra will feature undefeated Jr. Lightweight Mark “Too Sharp” Davis (18-0, 5 KOs) and former Super Featherweight world title challenger Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (37-4-4, 29 KOs) in a 12-round IBF world title eliminator. Wednesday’s show, from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., will air live at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and WatchESPN. The card is promoted by SMS Promotions, which is owned by multiplatinum recording artist and entrepreneur Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. The card is part of 50 Cent’s birthday celebration.

New Picture (1)Commentators:
Blow-by-blow commentator Joe Tessitore will be ringside with analyst Teddy Atlas describing the action for ESPN2, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will provide the latest boxing news and highlights. Commentators Robert Sierra and Alex Pombo will call the fights for Noche de Combates (Fight Night) on ESPN Deportes, while Claudia Trejos and Leopoldo González will anchor the studio.

Main Event:
Cleveland’s Davis is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision win over Carlos Vinan, while Farenas, who hails from the Philippines, is looking to score his fifth consecutive knockout following a second-round TKO win over Hector Velazquez in his last fight.

“Farenas – I don’t think he’s going to touch me,” Davis said. “I’m going to beat him with speed and movement. I think he’s pretty slow on his feet. I think he’s flat-footed….just be ready to see fireworks on July 2.”

Co-Feature:
Friday’s 10-round Jr. Lightweight co-feature will pit former IBF Featherweight titlist Billy “The Kid” Dib (36-3, 21 KOs) of Australia against former Featherweight world title challenger Alberto “Kichis” Garza of Mexico (26-7-1, 21 KOs). Dib is looking to rebound from a ninth-round TKO loss in a rematch against defending titleholder Evgeny Gradovich. Their first title fight in March 2013 headlined Friday Night Fights. Garza is also looking to get back to his winning ways following a 12-round unanimous decision loss to José Pedraza.

Opening Fight:
Wednesday’s telecast will open with a four-round bout between undefeated Jr. Welterweight Ryan Martin (5-0, 3 KOs) and Matthew Baca (4-1-1, 2 KOs).

Upcoming Schedule:

Date

Time (ET)

Main Event

Location

Networks

Wed, Jul 2

9 p.m.

Michael Farenas (38-4-4, 30 KOs) vs. Mark Davis (18-0, 5 KOs)—12 rounds, Jr. Lightweights

Foxwoods Casino, Mashantucket, Conn.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Jul 11

9 p.m.

Tureano Johnson (14-1, 10 KOs) vs. Mike Gavronski (14-0-1, 10 KOs)—10 rounds, Middleweights

Little Creek Casino, Shelton, Wash.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Jul 18

8 p.m.

Karim Mayfield (18-1-1, 11 KOs) vs. Emmanuel Taylor (17-2, 12 KOs)—10 rounds, Jr. Welterweight

Paramount Theater,
Huntington, N.Y.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Jul 25

9 p.m.

Roberto Garcia (35-3, 23 KOs) vs. Breidis Prescott (27-5, 20 KOs)—10 rounds Welterweight

UIC Convention Center, Chicago

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, Aug 1

9 p.m.

Thomas Williams Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) vs. Gabriel Campillo (23-6-1, 10 KOs)—12 rounds, Light Heavyweights

Little Creek Casino, Shelton, Wash.

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

*Schedule subject to change

Friday Night Fights and Noche de Combates Social Media:

· Follow ESPN Friday Night Fights on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like it on Facebook.

· Score the fights round-by-round with the “Live Friday Night Fights Facebook Voting App,” an application on the ESPN FNF Facebook page that allows viewers to score the fight round-by-round.

· Follow ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo.

· For the latest ESPN.com boxing news and analysis follow @ESPNBoxing.

MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (June 30, 2014) – Uber has partnered with 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions to offer a special deal for first-time Uber users attending this Wednesday night’s second annual “50 Cent Birthday Bash,” airing live on a special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights from Grand Theater in Fox Tower at Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Uber will provide new Uber users a free ride (up to $20) to fight attendees on behalf of SMS Promotions. See full details below.

In the main event, undefeated No. 11 rated junior lightweight Mark “Too Sharp” Davis (18-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Cleveland, takes on No. 4 ranked Filipino knockout artist Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (38-4-4, 30 KOs) in a 12-round International Boxing Federation (IBF) title eliminator.

Former IBF featherweight champion Billy “The Kid” Dib (36-3, 21 KOs), who is rated No. 13 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), moves up to junior lightweight to face former World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight title challenger Alberto “Kichis” Garza (26-7-1, 21 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature.

Unbeaten lightweight prospect Ryan “Blue Chip” Martin (6-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of Cleveland, takes on Albuquerque’s Matthew “Champ” Baca (4-1-1, 2 KOs) in the four-round ESPN opener.

Davis, Dib and Martin are promoted by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.

OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN

The official “50 Cent Birthday Bash” weigh in will be held tomorrow (Tuesday, July 1) at Foxwoods, starting at 5 p.m. ET, in the mezzanine area of the Grand Theater in Fox Tower.

Former S. Connecticut State University football player and current Connecticut State junior middleweight champion, New Haven’s unbeaten Jimmy Williams (6-0, 3 KOs), meets Bronx veteran Stephen Owusu (8-6, 4 KOs) in a six-round fight of local interest.

Undefeated WIBA International super bantamweight champion Shelly “Shelito’s Way” Vincent (11-0, 1 KO), of Providence, and former IWBF bantamweight titlist Nadia “Da Phenomenal” Feliciano (7-5-3, 0 KOs), fighting out of the Bronx, square off a six-round, non-title bout.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard is undefeated Nick DeLomba (3-0), of Cranston, RI vs. New Haven (CT) welterweight Edwin Soto (9-1-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round match, in addition to undefeated Bronx welterweight Luis Cruz (7-0, 4 KOs) vs. Ryan Picou (1-2) and Brooklyn super welterweight sensation Junior “Sugar Boy” Younan (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Azamat Umarzoda (0-3-1) in six and four round fights, respectively.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $100.00, $75.00 and $45.00 and are on sale online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office. Tickets will also be available to purchase through any Ticketmaster outlet and online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Doors at Grand Theater in Fox Tower will open at 6 p.m. ET. The first bout will start at 7 p.m. ET with ESPN FNF airing live between 9-11 p.m. ET.

Doors to the after party will open at 10:00 p.m. ET. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office.

Enjoy Your First Free Ride With Uber

How does it work? Using Uber’s free iPhone/Android/Blackberry 7 app, you can request a pickup and a car driven by a professional driver will show up in minutes. Your credit card is billed directly for your trip and there’s no need to tip, so you won’t need to carry cash. You can even see the car coming towards you on a map!

Follow these simple steps to get $20 off your ride:

1. Download the free Uber iPhone/Android/Blackberry 7 app (or sign up at get.uber.com/go/SMSboxing)

2. Enter your information in the Uber app and promo code SMSboxing when you sign up.

3. Request a ride 5 – 15 minutes before you need one. $20 will be applied towards your first ride on uberX, UberBLACK, or UberSUV (excluding uberT, expires 07/04/15, US only)

Uber is now available in over 130 cities worldwide including Providence, Boston, Connecticut and New York City

FACT SHEET

WHAT: “50 Cent’s Birthday Bash”

WHEN: Wednesday, July 2, 2014

WHERE: Grand Theater at Fox Tower, Foxwoods Resorts Casino, Mashantucket, Connecticut

WHO: MAIN EVENT – IBF WORL JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR (12)- ESPN
MARK “Too Sharp” DAVIS (18-0), Cleveland, Ohio
vs.
MICHAEL “Hammer Fist” FARENAS (38-4-4, 30 KOs), Paranaque City, Philippines

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (10) – ESPN
BILLY “The Kid” DIB (36-3, 21 KOs), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
vs.
ALBERTO “Kichis” GARZA (26-7-1, 21 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4) – ESPN
RYAN “Blue-Chip” MARTIN (6-0, 3 KOs), Cleveland, OH
vs.
MATTHEW “Champ” BACA (4-1-1, 2 KOs), Albuquerque, New Mexico

JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
JIMMY WILLIAMS (6-0-1, 3 KOs), New Haven, Connecticut
vs.
STEPHAN OWUSU (8-6, 4 KOs), Bronx, New York

FEMALE SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS (6)
SHELLY “Shelito’s Way” VINCENT (11-0, 1 KO), Providence, Rhode Island
vs.
NYDIA “Da Phenomenal” FELICIANO (7-5-3, 0 KOs), Bronx, New York

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
NICK DE LOMBA (3-0, 0 KOs), Cranston, Rhode Island
vs.
EDWIN SOTO (9-1-2, 4 KOs), New Haven, Connecticut by way of Puerto Rico

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
LUIS CRUZ (7-0, 4 KOs), Bronx, New York
vs.
RYAN PICOU (1-2, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, Nevada

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
JUNIOR “Sugar Boy” YOUNAN (4-0, 4 KOs), Brooklyn, New York
vs.
AZAMAT UMARZODA (0-3-1), Las Vegas, Nevada

(all fights & fighters subject to change)

PROMOTER: SMS Promotions

TELEVISION: Special edition of ESPN FNF

TICKETS: $100.00, $75.00 and $45.00 on sale online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office. Tickets are also be available to purchase through any Ticketmaster outlet and online at www.ticketmaster.com.

AFTER PARTY: Doors to the after party will open at 10:00 p.m. ET. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office.

DOORS OPEN: 6 p.m. ET FIRST BOUT: 7 p.m. ET ESPN2 BROADCAST: 9-11 p.m. ET

MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (June 19, 2014) – Former IBF featherweight champion Billy “The Kid” Dib (36-3, 21 KOs) returns Wednesday, July 2 to the scene of arguably the most disappointing night of his professional career for a 10-round co-feature bout against former WBA featherweight title challenger Alberto “Kichis” Garza (26-7-1, 21 KOs). Dib’s promoter, 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions, will present a special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights at Grand Theater in Fox Tower at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

In 2013, Dib lost his International Boxing Federation (IBF) featherweight title belt at Foxwoods by way of a 12-round split decision (114-112, 112-114, 112-114) to undefeated Evgeny Gradovich. Dib also lost a rematch to Gradovich last November and the Australian has moved up one weight class to junior lightweight for his fight with Garza.

“I’m grateful for fighting again at a beautiful venue like Foxwoods,” Dib said. “I have no demons (fighting there). I am blessed for what I already achieved and hungry to achieve more. I am also grateful for the opportunity ESPN and my promoter have given me. 50 creates opportunities. I have had all four of my fights shown on U.S. television and also shown live in my home country, Australia. 50 is a really smart guy that surrounds himself with really good people that help run his business. Some really fine examples of that is Monique Mayers, Angel Martinez and Sean Gibbons who make sure I’m always looked after. I am very grateful to them and the whole SMS team.”

Moving up in weight at the age of 28 is typical for fighters. “I have been making featherweight for the past 10 years and felt that I was losing some power due to slight struggles making weight,” Dib explained. “I feel stronger now and I am excited about attempting to win another world time in different division. That’s definitely my goal. I have done it before and know what it takes. I can’t put a time frame on it. I will be patient and work hard to achieve another world title, God willing.”

Garza is a 28-year-old Mexican boxer who lost his only world title shot to World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight champion Nicholas Walters by fourth-round technical knockout in 2013. Garza has held the World Boxing Council (WBC) and Silver Continental Americas titles, as well as the IBF Latino championship during his 11-year pro career.

“I know Garza has the Mexican heart that you can never underestimate,” Dib added. “He is very experienced, fought and won titles, and is dangerous. But I will be ready!”

In the 12-round main event, undefeated 50 Cent-promoted junior lightweight Mark “Too Sharp” Davis (18-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Cleveland, faces Filipino knockout specialist Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (38-4-4, 30 KOs) in an IBF (IBF) title eliminator. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for the winner of the July 10 title match between IBF junior lightweight champion Argenis Mendez and challenger Rances Barthelemy.

Undefeated SMS Promotions lightweight prospect Ryan “Blue Chip” Martin (6-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of Cleveland, takes on Albuquerque’s Matthew “Champ” Baca (4-1-1, 2 KOs) in the four-round ESPN opener.

Former S. Connecticut State University football player and current Connecticut State junior middleweight champion, New Haven’s unbeaten Jimmy Williams (6-0, 3 KOs), faces Bronx veteran Stephen Owusu (8-6, 4 KOs) in a six-round fight of local interest.

Undefeated WIBA International super bantamweight champion Shelly “Shelito’s Way” Vincent (11-0, 1 KO), of Providence, and former IWBF bantamweight titlist Nadia “Da Phenomenal” Feliciano (7-5-3, 0 KOs), fighting out of the Bronx, square off a six-round, non-title bout.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard is undefeated Nick DeLomba (3-0), of Cranston, RI versus New Haven (CT) welterweight Edwin Soto (9-1-2, 4 KOs) in a four-round match.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $100.00, $75.00 and $45.00 and are on sale online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office. Tickets will also be available to purchase through any Ticketmaster outlet and online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Doors at Grand Theater in Fox Tower will open at 6 p.m. ET. The first bout will start at 7 p.m. ET with ESPN FNF between 9-11 p.m. ET.

Doors to the after party will open at 10:00 p.m. ET. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office.

MASHANTUCKET, Conn., (May 29, 2014) – Rapper/promoter Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson returns to the Nutmeg State to celebrate his birthday as his company, SMS Promotions, presents a special edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights on Wednesday night, July 2, at Grand Theater in Fox Tower at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

The 12-round main event matches undefeated junior lightweight Mark “Too Sharp” Davis (18-0, 5 KOs) against Filipino knockout specialist Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (38-4-4, 30 KOs) in an International Boxing Federation (IBF) title eliminator. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for winner of the upcoming title match between IBF 130-pound champion Argenis Mendez and challenger Rances Barthelemy.

“I’m thrilled to return to Foxwoods Resort Casino, celebrating my birthday yet again with ESPN Friday Night Fights,” commented 50 Cent. “Last year was such a success I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to do it again and deliver an amazing night of boxing. All of the fighters on the card bring strength, power, endurance and agility to the sport. It’s a night you won’t want to miss.”

“We are delighted to be welcoming back 50 and his SMS Promotions for another stellar night of fights on ESPN.” added Monique L. Sebastian, Executive Director of Entertainment, Foxwoods Resort Casino. “We couldn’t think of a better way to kick off the holiday weekend.”

The 27-year-old Davis, fighting out of Cleveland, had more than 200 amateur bouts, highlighted by his gold medal winning performance at the 2005 U.S. National Championships.

Farenas is a battle-tested veteran from the Philippines who has never been stopped in 47 professional fights. He lost a 12-round decision to another SMS fighter, Yuriorkis Gamboa, in 2012 for the interim World Boxing Association (WBA) super featherweight title, after he fought WBA super featherweight champion Takashi Uchiyama to a draw in Japan.

In the 10-round ESPN FNF co-feature, former IBF featherweight champion Billy “The Kid” Dib (36-3, 21 KOs) moves up in weight to face former WBA featherweight title challenger Alberto “Kichis” Garza (26-7-1, 21 KOs), of Mexico City, with world junior lightweight implications at stake.

Dib, fighting out of Sydney, Australia, returns to Foxwoods where 14 months ago, also during ESPN FNF, he lost his IBF title to Evgeny Gradovich by way of a 12-round split decision.

Last November, Garza lost his only world title fight to WBA featherweight champion Nicholas Walters by fourth-round technical knockout. Garza is a former WBC Silver and WBC Continental Americas featherweight title holder.

Scheduled to fight opponents to be determined in four-round bouts are three of SMS Promotions’ top prospects: lightweights Luis Olivares, Jr. (7-0, 5 KOs), Glendale, Arizona; Donte Strayhorn (5-1, 1 KO), Cincinnati, Ohio; Ryan “Blue Chip” Martin (5-0, 3 KOs), Chattanooga, Tennessee.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $100.00, $75.00 and $45.00 and will soon go on sale online at www.foxwoods.com, calling Foxwoods’ box office at (800) 200-2882, or in person at Foxwoods’ box office. Tickets will also be available to purchase through any Ticketmaster outlet and online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Doors at Grand Theater in Fox Tower will open at 6 p.m. ET. The first bout will start at 7 p.m. ET with ESPN FNF airing live between 9-11 p.m. ET.

Manny Pacquiao 147 – Juan Manuel Marquez 143
Yuriorkis Gamboa 130 – Michael Ferenas 130
Patrick Hyland 126 – Javier Fortuna 126

Photps by Chris Farina / Top Rank