HOUSTON, TX (February 26, 2024) – In a bold statement, undefeated WBA World Champion David Morrell Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) has declared that rising star Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs), who is fresh off his sixth-round knockout over Padraig McCrory (18-1, 9 KOs), is nowhere near his level and that he would dispatch him in just one round if given the chance.

Morrell Jr., coming off a string of impressive victories, since his dominant performance over Alantez Fox to capture the WBA World title, minced no words in his assessment of Berlanga’s recent success.

“Berlanga is simply not on my level,” said Morrell Jr. “I’ve watched his fights, and I see nothing that worries me. Berlanga sucks, and I would destroy him. If we ever step into the ring together, I’ll knock him out in one round, guaranteed.”

With his sights set on solidifying his status as one of the most formidable champions in the division, Morrell Jr. remains fearless by any challenge that comes his way.

“I’m here to prove that I’m the best,” concluded Morrell Jr. “Whether it’s Berlanga, or anyone else, I’ll be ready to step into the ring and show the world what I’m made of. I’m the best fighter in the super middleweight division, and soon everyone will know that.”

As anticipation builds for his next move, fans eagerly await Morrell Jr.’s next title defense, eager to witness his explosive talents in action once again.

Edgar Berlanga scored an impressive sixth round stoppage over Padraig McCrory in a 12-round super middleweight bout of undefeated fighters at the Caribe Royale

In round six, a little cut developed over the right eye of Berlanga. Late in the round, Berlanga landed two crushing right’s with the second being flush on the chin that put McCrory down and badly hurt. As McCrory tried to get up, his corner threw in the towel at 2:44.

Berlanga, 167.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. McCrory, 167.8 lbs of Belfast, NI is 18-1.

Andy Cruz Decisions Zamarripa

Ballyhooed prospect Andy Cruz won a 10-round unanimous decision over Brayan Zamarripa in a lightweight bout.

In round six, Zamarripa began to bleed around his left eye.

Cruz landed 240 of 611 punches. Zamarripa was 34 of 247.

Cruz, 135 lbs of Mantanzas, CUB won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 3-0. Zamarripa, 135 lbs of Ensenada, MEX is 14-3.

Giyasov Defeats Cano By Technical Decision

Shakhram Giyasov defeated Pablo Cesar Cano via technical unanimous decision when Cano was injured after the 11th round of their 12-rund welterweight fight.

In round three, Giyasov dropped Cano with a vicious left hook to the body.

At the end of round 11, Giyasov dropped Cano after the bell. It was ruled no-knockdown, but Cano hurt his leg and could not continue. The fight went to the scorecards.

Giyasov landed 109 of 466 punches. Cano was 82 of 431.

The scorecards read 109-99 on all cards for Giyasov, 146.8 lbs of Uzbekistan and is now 15-0. Cano, 146.2 lbs of Mexico is 35-9-1.

Antonio Vargas Stops Jonathan Rodriguez in a War

Antonio Vargas stopped Jonathan in eight seven-packed round in a 12-round bantamweight fight.

In round one, Rodriguez connected with an overhand right to the chin that put Vargas on the canvas. In round two, the right eye of Rodriguez began to swell. Later in the round, Vargas began to land some hard combinations and was able to even up the fight sending Rodriguez to a knee. The score was short lived as Vargas hit Rodriguez while he was down and was deducted two points. In round four, a left hook by Rodriguez buckled Vargas.

At the end of round eight, Vargas unloaded a huge left hook that was followed by a right hand that put Rodriguez on the deck. Rodriguez got to his feet, went to the corner and the fight was wisely stopped.

Vargas, 117.6 lbs of Kissimmee, FL is 18-1 with 10 knockouts. Rodriguez, 118 lbs of Bethlehem, PA is 17-2-1.

Yankiel Rivera Decisions Andy Dominguez

In a fantastic bout of undefeated flyweights, Yankiel Rivera held on to win a 10-round unanimous decision over Andy Dominguez.

Rivera cut up and shut the right eye of Dominguez, but in round nine Dominguez made a furious rally and hurt Rivera on at least two occasions. Rivera was hanging on and was reeling back. Rivera was able to get out of the round and go the distance and win by 99-91 on all catds.

Rivera, 111.8 lbs of Toa Alta, PR is now 5-0. Dominguez, 111.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 10-1.

Joseph Fernandez won an eight-round unanimous decision over Aaron Aponte in a super lightweight fight.

In round seven, Fernandez was cut along the right eyebrow from a headbutt.

Fernandez, 140.4 lbs of Saint Petersburg, FL won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75 and is now 18-5-3. Aponte, 141 lbs of Hialeah, FL is 8-2-1.

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
 
Herich Ruiz (223.4lbs) vs.       Joshua Brice (N/A)
Isla de la Juventud, Cuba        Baltimore, Maryland 
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
 
Aaron Aponte (141lbs)           vs.       Joseph Fernandez (140.4lbs)
Hialeah, Florida                                   Saint Petersburg, Florida
 
LIVE ON DAZN FROM 7PM ET
 
12 x 3 mins WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles
 
Yankiel Rivera (111.8lbs) vs. Andy Dominguez (111.6lbs)
Toa Alta, Puerto Rico              Las Vegas, Nevada
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins eliminator for the WBA World Bantamweight title
 
Antonio Vargas (117.6lbs)     vs.        Jonathan Rodriguez (118lbs)
Kissimmee, Florida                             Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title
 
Shakhram Giyasov (146.8lbs) vs.       Pablo Cesar Cano (146.2lbs)
Bukhara, Uzbekistan                           Tlalnepantla de Baz Edomex, Mexico
 
Followed by     
 
10 x 3 mins IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Lightweight titles.
 
Andy Cruz (135lbs)     vs.        Brayan Zamarripa (135lbs)
Mantanzas, Cuba        Ensenada, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title
 
Edgar Berlanga (167.8lbs) vs. Padraig McCrory (167.8lbs) 
Brooklyn, New York                Belfast, Northern Ireland

Eddie Hearn
 
“Welcome to Orlando ahead of a huge night of boxing at Caribe Royale live on DAZN around the world, top class match-ups from top to bottom, headlined by Edgar Berlanga, looking for a shot at the the World championship, but chasing him is Padraig McCrory, two huge punchers, labeled ‘Shootout’ on Saturday night, and it really will be.
 
“There are 50-50 matchups across the board, leading off with Yankiel Rivera in a huge step-up against Andy Dominguez in a Puerto Rico vs. Mexico clash, there’s Puerto Rico vs. Puerto Rico as Antonio Vargas takes on Jonathan Rodriguez, who broke our hearts by knocking out Kal Yafai, and the eliminator for the World Welterweight title as Shakhram Giyasov takes on big punching Pablo Cesar Cano. 
 
“I get told off for shouting my mouth about fighters sometimes but let’s be honest, Andy Cruz is a potential pound-for-pound great. He is one of the greatest amateurs of a generation and he’s moving like a train in the paid ranks, he’s in his third fight but he’s stepped up every time and last time out he demolished Jovanni Straffon to become IBF International Lightweight champion on the Devin Haney-Regis Prograis card. I believe he’s a couple of fights away from challenging for a World title and I would put this man in with any 135lber on the planet right now. But Brayan Zamarripa is so tough, we saw him in an incredible fight in Tijuana with Angel Fierro, a fight that could have gone either way on the cards. He was in tears in the dressing room afterwards and I said we would give him another opportunity, and that opportunity is a huge one but a huge one but a tough one against Andy.
 
“And our main event, a fantastic fight between two huge punchers in the 168lb division. Padraig is looking to beat Edgar and land a dream shot for the World championship, but Edgar is one of the rising stars in boxing and comes into this having filled up The Theater at Madison Square Garden last time out and looking for his own World title shot. 
 
“Canelo Alvarez is without an opponent on May 4 currently and we will put Edgar’s name into the hat with an impressive performance on Saturday night, but Padraig has other ideas.”
 
Edgar Berlanga (21-0 16 KOs) defends his WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title against Padraig McCrory
 
“We don’t overlook anyone. Padraig is a tough guy, he’s coming from Ireland, he’s undefeated, he’s coming from the bottom just like I am, and we’re ready.
 
“Every fighter is going to come to try to beat me, and we know that. I know that the competition is getting heavier and tougher, so we’ve prepped very well in this camp. At this level, anything can happen, and we understand that. In the Super-Middleweight division, you can have no power but when you put ten-ounce gloves on, anybody can punch. So, we’ve taken him very seriously and I’m happy that he took the fight. 
 
“At this time, Saturday is my focus, Padraig McCrory. I don’t give a f**k about Canelo, Munguia, it’s this man across from me that’s trying to take my ‘0’, so I have to put my focus on him and handle my business and then eventually, we can focus on those guys. 
 
“We come from the slums too, I haven’t had it all nice. When I turned pro, no-one wanted to sign me, my first three fights were in Mexico. He’s Irish, we’re Puerto Rico, we get it popping. It’s statement season. Superstar week, because I have to shine. Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, they sell out a lot of fights because it’s Puerto Rico vs. the Irish, and I take my hat off to the Irish fighters because they are tough, and they come to fight.”
 
Padraig McCrory (18-0 9 KOs) challenges Edgar Berlanga for the WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title
 
“I want to thank you, Matchroom and Mick and Jamie with Conlan Boxing for this massive opportunity. It’s the biggest fight of my career and I have trained like it is. Now it is up to me on Saturday night to put on a show.
 
“There’s been a lot of work going on for me, I started in 2017, I’m 35 and people are questioning why only 18 fights. But I didn’t fight until I was 29, and then COVID happened. So I have been very busy, I’ve built my career to this point and people believe in me, but the main thing is that I believe in myself and that this is the platform and opportunity that I need.
 
“He’s a very good fighter. He’s the main event, the star, it’s the Berlanga show and I’m just here to show up, I’m just a guy from West Belfast, no-one expects anything from me. But I think I have got what it takes to win this fight, we’ve trained hard and meticulously gone through tactics so whether it’s Game A, B or C, we’re ready for what he bring.
 
“He fights the way he fights so if I don’t put in place what we have planned, it’s a very tough fight. I’ve been screaming for this opportunity, Matchroom and DAZN is the biggest platform for me in the sport, and now it’s here I have to show up.”
 
Andy Cruz (2-0 1 KO) defends his IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Lightweight titles.
 
“I’m always ready. Yes, there is pressure, yes, there are nerves, but I see that as a positive and in fact, when I am feeling that way, I am at my most dangerous. I am prepared for the fight, and it’s one thing to sit here and say you are going to do what you say you will do, as we all have the same objectives, but another thing is doing.
 
“As a boxer we all have goals. I hear a lot of what is going on around me but I don’t listen to it too much because ultimately, I am the person that has the final word in the ring, so I just want to demonstrate that I do belong at this level and I can go on and face the best. 
 
“I feel that I really progressing well in this kind of new style of boxing. With every camp I have I progress even more and that’s thanks to my great gym mates and my trainer. You are starting to see a more complete Andy Cruz, a more complete boxer, and on Saturday I am going to demonstrate those qualities and I think you are going to see a mix of Cuban boxing fused with Philadelphia.” 
 
Brayan Zamarripa (14-2 5 KOs) challenges Andy Cruz for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American titles.
 
“Thank you for keeping your word, Eddie. As a good Mexican, I come here to leave everything in the ring and that will be no exception. I am coming here to get the victory and to take those belts home. The fight with Fierro is in the past now, I am here to get the win and don’t be surprised to see me take those belts on Saturday night.
 
“Andy has a lot of experience as an amateur, but I also have that, so I can box off the front foot or the back foot, but one thing that’s for sure is that I am taking home those titles.
 
“I’m here to take this opportunity, this is my moment, and I won’t let it pass me by. I am ready to face anyone, whether it’s the best Olympian out there or the best fighter, I am ready for the best.”
 
Shakhram Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) faces Pablo Cesar Cano in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title
 
“For me it’s a good fight, a big fight, it’s one step from being in a World title fight. I am ready, but I am always ready because I am born to be here. I love boxing and I want to put on a good show for the fans.
 
“I know he’s got power, a good punch, but I am faster, I am smarter, and I am ready.”
 
Pablo Cesar Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs) faces Shakhram Giyasov in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title 
 
“It’s great to be back on such a big card, it’s almost like the phoenix rising from the flames, I am coming back. This won’t be the exception. I am prepared and ready for the war.
 
“I always love to go in and trade, to have a war. I think he is exactly the same so I think that this might steal the show on Saturday.”
 
Antonio Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) faces Jonathan Rodriguez in an eliminator for the WBA World Bantamweight title
 
“It’s a big opportunity for me and I’m very thankful to be here. I am looking forward to Saturday night and the chance to display my skills. This is my hometown, so I am looking forward to giving the fans a good fight and make sure you get your money’s worth.
 
“The loss definitely helped me to grow build character and strengthen me, I learnt a lot from it. I corrected a lot of the mistakes from it and it’s just a hunger I have because I know I belong where these top guys are at, I am a top fighter, and I am looking to showcase my skills on Saturday night.”
 
Jonathan Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) faces Antonio Vargas in an eliminator for the WBA World Bantamweight title
 
“This is what it’s all about, taking step-ups to get to where you want to be, which is a World champion. I am one fight away from that, so I am going to do anything and everything I can to come out victorious on Saturday night.
 
“The Kal Yafai fight made me feel good because it made me feel like I belong where I am at now. I am just going to keep doing what I have to do to keep getting the wins and making statements, and to become a World champion.”
 
Yankiel Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) faces Andy Dominguez for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles
 
“I’ve trained very hard and I’m ready to fight and to win. We’re ready for this, we’ve had a really good camp. We know Andy is a really good fighter, but I love challenges, they are what I live for.”
 
Andy Dominguez (10-0 5 KOs) faces Yankiel Rivera for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles
 
“He’s a good fighter, he’s an Olympian, I’ve had more professional fights than him, so I feel like this is an even fight. It’s Puerto Rico vs. Mexico and you know how that goes, so it’s going to be a good fight.” 

Edgar Berlanga hopes that Padraig McCrory backs up his words and comes to fight when the pair clash at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday night (February 24), live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Berlanga (21-0 16 KOs) faces the Belfast man after beating Irishman Jason Quigley in June at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The Puerto Rican star has vowed to pick up where he left off in the final round where he dropped Quigley for the third and fourth time on the night, as ‘The Chosen One’ looks to cement his spot as a future ruler of the Super-Middleweihgt division.
 
The 26 year old expects McCrory (18-0 9 KOs) to provide the stiffest test of those credentials that he’s faced to date, and after the Belfast man predicted a shoot-out in Orlando, Berlanga hopes that is what McCrory brings in order to provide fans with an explosive night.
 
“He’s my hardest test so far for sure,” said Berlanga. “He’s undefeated, so he’s coming with a different mentality. He’s going to do anything to protect that ‘0’. I never overlook any opponent, I know he’s coming to fight, he has something to prove, and that’s what I like. Every fight we’re stepping up and he is highly ranked, he’s unbeaten, he’s got the same number of fights as me and I think it’s going to be a good test. 
 
“Once he gets touched, I think he’s going to get on his bike. I don’t think he’s going to stay there and want to exchange with me. But we are prepping for anything and everything. So, if he tries to run and move around, box, try to lure me in and throw a sneaky shot, we see that coming. And if he wants to stay there and trade, well, they call him ‘The Hammer’ so he’s supposed to be displaying that, so we’ll see.
 
“My hands will do the talking on Saturday when I am pounding on his face, I hope he’s ready because I am coming with fireworks. When he sees me at the press conference and he looks into my eyes, he’s going to know what’s up. I’m about that action, I pray he comes healthy so we can put an amazing night on for the fans. I’m coming for blood. There’s going to be a lot of heat on him, and he better be prepared, because I’m looking to hurt him and knock him the fuck out.
 
“It was a good fight with Jason. What you have to understand is what McCrory said that it’s a life-changing moment for him. So, these guys are never going to come like they do for any other fight, and it’s like that with Jason. He was in tremendous shape, I dropped him four times and he got crushed in that 12th round but he still got up, he had no quit in him. But these fighters come with a different mentality when they face me, like they do when they face the Canelo’s or the Benavidez’s, that’s the mindset that they have and you hear it in what McCrory is saying, this is a life-changing chance for him. Every fighter is going to feel like that against me.
 
“I love the Irish fans. My manager is Irish. But McCrory has to go, it’s over for him. They will call me the Irish Assassin. The crowd in New York was amazing though, the Irish flags at the Garden, and they are a fighting country just like Puerto Rico, they have that fighting spirit in them.”
 
Berlanga and McCrory clash on a big night of action in Orlando, where the co-feature pits Cuban Lightweight sensation Andy Cruz (2-0 1 KO) against Mexican Brayan Zamarippa (14-2 5 KOs) for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American titles.
 
Shakhram Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) and Pablo Cesar Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs) battle it out in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title, while the main card on DAZN sees another World title eliminator as Antonio Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) and Jonathan Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) aim to take a step closer to the WBA World Bantamweight crown.
 
Yankiel Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) closes the Before The Bell section of the card with his first title fight as he takes on Andy Dominguez (10-0 5 KOs) for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles, with Cuban Heavyweight Herich Ruiz (4-0 3 KOs) meets Mitch Williams (16-10-3 11 KOs) over eight rounds and Aaron Aponte (8-1-1 2 KOs) takes on Joseph Fernandez (17-5-3 6 KOs) over eight rounds Super-Lightweight.

Edgar Berlanga believes he’s ready to get back to his spiteful best as he closes in on his crunch showdown with Padraig McCrory at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on February 24, live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Berlanga (21-0 16 KOs) has promised to kick on from a dominant 12^th round in his last fight against Irishman in Jason Quigley, where he floored the former Olympian twice to put an exclamation mark on a wide points win in New York in June.
 
That fight ended a year’s absence from the ring and was a first fight back with trainer Marc Farrait after four years apart. The 26 year old revealed that his time out and injuries in camp affected him for the Quigley fight, but those knocks are now behind him and with the introduction of highly regarded strength and conditioning coach Angel ‘Memo’ Heredia and a fresh focus in his tight-knit Tampa base, ‘The Chosen One’ feels that he’s in the shape of his life to take on the unbeaten Belfast man McCrory (18-0 9 KOs)
 
“The 12th round of my last fight, I feel like that’s really woken me up,” said Berlanga. “I haven’t missed anything, I know I have got the power to hurt anybody, and I feel different as a fighter, mentally, physically and spiritually. I know that there’s going to be fireworks coming from me on February 24, that’s a fact. I’m coming for the KO. He can say whatever he wants, but at the end of the day we have to go in there and tussle. 
 
“Me at my best, nobody is f**king with me. When I am 100 per cent, which you’ll see on February 24, I am unstoppable. 
 
“I’ve sacrificed a lot, changing my environment, coming to the suburbs and being fully locked in on myself and my craft. I’ve refocused on the small details of my style to bring the best out of me. So, from all that right there, it’s going to be something amazing.
 
“There is jealousy. I’m here in Tampa now and there’s a lot of people out there that were acting like they were my friends, and they weren’t. People that were close to me that were envying me, so I got rid of all those people and I’m just focused on myself and my team, and I feel that with God with me, the sky is the limit and there’s nothing stopping me. 
 
“I’ll be one of the best 168lb fighters in the world. I think that after this fight my name is going to be buzzing again, and people will be talking about me and Canelo in September or Jaime Munguia. I feel those fights are there to be made and it’s time to go capture a belt.
 
“I’m not the guy that fought Jason, and he’s going to see that. I’m getting better and better. I was four years away from Marc before that fight and I went through a lot of injuries in that camp. 
 
“I’m on a different level now physically. I’m sparring 15, 16 rounds with three or four different guys, and I didn’t get a chance to do that in my last camp with the injuries and coming back to camp overweight with the lay-off and not having a promoter, going through some depression in New York. We brought in ‘Memo’ who every knows has worked with the best, and we know we can go 12 strong rounds and go at it hard, and I know that if I do that, no one can stand a chance with me.”
 
Berlanga and McCrory clash on a big night of action in Orlando, where the co-feature pits Cuban Lightweight sensation Andy Cruz (2-0 1 KO) against Mexican Brayan Zamarippa (14-2 5 KOs) for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American titles.
 
Shakhram Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) and Pablo Cesar Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs) battle it out in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title, while the main card on DAZN sees another World title eliminator as Antonio Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) and Jonathan Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) aim to take a step closer to the WBA Wordl Bantamweigtht crown.
 
Yankiel Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) closes the Before The Bell section of the card with his first title fight as he takes on Andy Dominguez (10-0 5 KOs) for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles, with Cuban Heavyweight Herich Ruiz (4-0 3 KOs) meets Mitch Williams (16-10-3 11 KOs) over eight rounds and Aaron Aponte (8-1-1 2 KOs) takes on Joseph Fernandez (17-5-3 6 KOs) over eight rounds Super-Lightweight.

Shakhram Giyasov meets Pablo Cesar Cano and Antonio Vargas faces Jonathan Rodriguez in World title eliminators, as hot prospect Yankiel Rivera fights for a first pro title on the undercard of the Super-Middleweight showdown between Edgar Berlanga and Padraig McCrory at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday February 24, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS GO ON PRESALE ON WEDNESDAY JANUARY 10 (10AM ET), AND ON GENERAL SALE ON JANUARY 11 (10AM ET) – VISIT MATCHROOMBOXING.COM TO SIGN UP FOR PRESALE

Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) will look to make his claims for a World Welterweight title shot even louder when the WBA number #1 ranked Welterweight takes on former World title challenger Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs). The Uzbek beat Harold Calderon at a canter in June in New Orleans to make it to 14-0 in the paid ranks, and now seeks victory over the experienced Mexican who has won his last two fights inside the distance and sits at #6 with the WBA at 147lbs.

Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) and Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) clash in a fascinating eliminator for the WBA 118lb crown. Vargas will be on familiar territory for the biggest fight of his career to date, as the 27 year old steps through the ropes at Caribe Royale for the seventh straight fight, but the #2 ranked Floridian faces a man full of confidence in Puerto Rican Torres, who stunned the boxing world by sending former World champion Kal Yafai into retirement with a first round KO win in Los Angeles in November, and the #4 ranked 24 year old will be eager to build on that impressive showing against Vargas.

Former amateur stud Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) is ready to make his first significant impact on the paid ranks as he looks to get hold of his first belt by taking on Andy Dominguez for the WBA Continental Americas Flyweight title. The Puerto Rican Olympic sensation has already proved to be a hit in his four outings to date, but steps up in both opposition and rounds against the unbeaten Mexican Dominguez (10-0 6 KOs), who also fights for his first belt in the clash.

Florida’s Aaron Aponte (8-1-1 2 KOs) steps through the ropes for the 11^th time in the paid ranks over eight rounds at Super-Lightweight, and Cuban Heavyweight and 2021 World Championship bronze medalist Herich Ruiz (4-0 3 KOs) is back in action over six, with opponents for both fighters to be named soon. 

The bouts announced today feature on a star-studded line-up in Orlando, topped by the clash between explosive unbeaten Super-Middleweights Edgar Berlanga and Padraig McCrory, with the co-feature bout showcasing the continued rise of Cuba’s former Olympic Gold medal hero Andy Cruz, who defends his IBF International Lightweight title against Brayan Zamarippa.

Three February fight nights across the globe kick off what promises to be Matchroom Boxing’s busiest year yet. Crucial domestic clashes, World Title rematches and undefeated vs. undefeated showdowns whet the appetite for fight fans around the world – with all of the action shown exclusively live on DAZN.  

Matchroom’s UK schedule gets underway with a huge rematch at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday February 10 as Welterweight rivals Conah Walker and Cyrus Pattinson do battle again following their thrilling clash at the Utilita Arena Birmingham back in August. 

Wolverhampton’s Walker (12-2-1, 4 KOs) sensationally handed former Team GB standout Pattinson (6-1, 4 KOs) the first loss of his professional career, flooring the Alnwich man three times on route to securing the biggest win of his career via an eighth-round stoppage.

All-action Pattinson gets an immediate shot at redemption, this time in front of his home crowd, as he looks to get his promising career back on track by putting his first loss behind him and continuing his climb towards title action in the 147lbs division.

Also featuring on the card is a fourth pro outing for exciting 21 year old Cameron Vuong (3-0 2 KOs) who takes on the experienced Ishmael Ellis (14-7) over eight rounds at Lightweight. 

The following Friday (February 16) Mexico plays host to another must-watch rematch as Adrien Curiel and Sivenathi Nontshinga run it back for the IBF Light-Flyweight World Title following their dramatic first meeting at the Casino de Monte-Carlo last month. 

Mexico’s Curiel (24-4-1, 5 KOs) ripped up the script by scoring a shocking one-punch knockout of South Africa’s defending champion Nontshiunga (12-1, 9 KOs) in the second round of their highly anticipated showdown in Monaco.

The 24-year-old makes the first defence of his World Title on home soil, determined to prove that his stunning knockout of the year contender wasn’t just a one off. Having tasted defeat for the first time in his career, Nontshinga is aiming to recapture his old belt to keep his dreams of unifying the division alive. 

Rising Super-Middleweight star Edgar Berlanga closes out an action-packed February on DAZN as he faces the toughest test of his career in the shape of Belfast’s Padraig McCrory at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida.

‘The Chosen One’ (21-0, 16 KOs) takes on his second Irish opponent in a row after widely outpointing Jason Quigley to retain his WBO NABO Title at New York’s Madison Square Garden Theatre in June. 

Unbeaten McCrory (18-0, 9 KOs) fights in the U.S. for the first time in his career, tasked with the challenge of derailing Berlanga’s rapid rise to the top of the Super-Middleweight division.

Elsewhere, Islington’s John Ryder (32-6, 18 KOs) looks to build on his brilliant showing against pound-for-pound star Canelo Alvarez when he takes on his undefeated compatriot Jaime Munguia (42-0, 33 KOs) at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday January 27 – live worldwide on DAZN. 

“2023 has been an incredible year for Matchroom Boxing and our partners DAZN – and we’re not done just yet!” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “We close out the year in incredible fashion next weekend in Saudi Arabia as Anthony Joshua, Dmitry Bivol and Jai Opetaia all star in one of the biggest cards ever put together. However, 2024 promises to be even bigger and better and I’m excited to announce our first three events of the year.

“It’s time for Cyrus Pattinson to show us what he’s made of when he faces Conah Walker in a must-win rematch with his career on the line. Adrien Curiel caused one of the biggest upsets in boxing this year when he sensationally dethroned Sivenathi Nontshinga in Monte-Carlo. He gets the hero’s return to Mexico where he will be looking to end Nontshinga’s dreams of unifying the Light-Flyweight division. ‘The Chose One’ Edgar Berlanga is out to remind everyone why he is rated as one of the very best Super-Middleweights on the planet when he takes on Belfast’s unbeaten Padraig McCrory. Watch all of our action live worldwide on DAZN.”

“After a stacked 2023 seeing the biggest names fighting in the biggest fights, we are delighted to be adding three shows to an already busy 2024”, said Alfie Sharman, VP DAZN. “This year will see new matchups constantly added as we continue to deliver nonstop boxing action to subscribers and fight fans all around the world.” 

Further undercard announcements and ticket details will follow in due course.

(Aug. 1, 2023) — Two international fight cards will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. this Friday on ESPN+. 

The fistic fireworks begin at Falls Park in Belfast, as undefeated super middleweight Padraig McCrory takes on Steed Woodall in the 10-round main event. 

The action continues later that evening as Puerto Rican welterweight Derrieck Cuevas battles hometown hero Alberto Mosquera in a 10-rounder at Coliseo de Combates in Panama City, Panama.

McCrory-Woodall and undercard contests will stream live beginning at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.

Cuevas-Mosquera and undercard bouts will stream live starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. 

McCrory (17-0, 9 KOs) made his pro debut in June 2017 with a decision win over Jacob Lucas. He captured his first regional title four years later with a fifth-round TKO against Sergei Gorokhov. He defended it twice, including a fifth-round TKO victory against former world title challenger Marco Antonio Periban. In October 2022, the 35-year-old stopped then-unbeaten German contender Leon Bunn in six rounds, and he’s coming off a 10-round decision win over Diego Ramirez on the May undercard of the Luis Alberto Lopez-Michael Conlan featherweight title showdown in Belfast. Woodall (18-1-1, 11 KOs) is a nine-year pro who suffered an early-career defeat against Steve Rolls in 2015. He has not lost since. The 29-year-old is coming off an eight-round decision win over Boris Crighton in April.

In other streaming action from Belfast:

Sean McComb (16-1, 5 KOs) vs. Alejandro Moya (17-1, 10 KOs), 10 Rounds, WBO European Junior Welterweight Title 

Fearghus Quinn (6-0, 2 KOs) vs. Ramiro Blanco (19-25-3, 10 KOs), 8 Rounds, Middleweights

Kurt Walker (7-0, 1 KO) vs. Mike Jurik (6-7, 5 KOs), 8 Rounds, Featherweights

Lewis Crocker (16-0, 9 KOs) vs. Greyvin Mendoza (7-6-3, 5 KOs), 8 Rounds, Welterweights

Conor Quinn (6-0-1, 4 KOs) vs. Bryan Castro (2-6-1, 1 KO), 6 Rounds, Junior Bantamweights

Cuevas (25-1-1, 17 KOs), an eight-year pro from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, captured his first regional title in December 2016 with a decision win over Daniel Sostre. Since then, the 28-year-old has only suffered one setback, a six-round split decision loss to Damian Ezequiel Bonelli in December 2020. He bounced back with a TKO win against Esneiker Correa two years later and is coming off a second-round knockout victory against Damian Rodriguez in April. Mosquera (28-5-2, 16 KOs) unsuccessfully challenged for an interim title against unbeaten Brunet Zamora in October 2011. He’s since fought a who’s who of welterweight standouts, including Erick Bone, Sammy Vasquez and Rashidi Ellis. The 36-year-old veteran returns after a six-round decision win against Leonardo Espinal in February. 

In other streaming action from Panama:

Uwel Hernandez (15-1, 8 KOs) vs. Juan Juarez (21-8, 15 KOs), 12 Rounds, Super Middleweights

Azael Villar (19-2-3, 15 KOs) vs. Gerardo Zapata (14-1, 5 KOs), 10 Rounds, Light Flyweights

Yunior Menendez (7-0, 6 KOs) vs. Ricardo Hernandez (2-2-1, 2 KOs), 8 Rounds, Light Heavyweights

The official weigh-in for Saturday nights IBO World Light Heavyweight Championship battle between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory took place at the Dorint Parkhotel Frankfurt/Bad Vilbel today. Bunn vs. McCrory will take place tomorrow night at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. Here is an overview of all the weights of the fighters on the card:
 

IBO World Light Heavyweight Championship – 12 Rounds

Leon Bunn (Germany): 79,0 Kg | 174,17 lbs

Padraig McCrory (Ireland): 78,9 Kg | 173,94 lbs

Super Featherweight – 6 Rounds

Kurt Walker (Ireland): 58,4 Kg | 128,75 lbs

Yin Caicedo (Columbia): 57,1 Kg | 125,88 lbs

Bantamweight – 6 Rounds (x 2 mins)

Bilgenur Aras (Germany): 54,2 Kg | 119,49 lbs

Oksana Romanova (Ukraine): 53,5 Kg | 117,95 lbs

Middleweight – 6 Rounds

Kieran Molloy (Ireland): 70,0 Kg | 154,32 lbs

Sandro Jajanidze (Georgia): 72,0 Kg | 158,73 lbs

Heavyweight – 6 Rounds

Daniel Dietz (Germany): 121,0 Kg | 266,76 lbs

Gyorgy Kutasi (Hungary): TBA

Super Middleweight – 4 Rounds

Allen Bauer (Germany): 74,3 Kg | 163,80 lbs

Renato Balogh (Hungary): TBA

Super Middleweight – 4 Rounds

Ryszard Lewicki (Poland): 75,0 Kg | 165,38 lbs

Merab Turkadze (Georgia): 74,0 Kg | 163,14 lbs
 

Leftover tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale via Eventim and can also be acquired at the box office on the night of the fight.

Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum was proud to present today’s final press conference ahead of the IBO World light heavyweight championship showdown between local hero Leon Bunn and hard-hitting Irishman Padraig McCrory. The world title showdown will take place this Saturday, October 22, at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. 

LEON BUNN: “I feel great and I’m glad to be here in Frankfurt, in my hometown, to fight for a world title. I’m happy that Wasserman made this a reality. I’ve trained hard for this fight. I’m always in training because I always hoped that an opportunity like this would come across. I gave it my all in camp with Conny these last weeks and I am sure that all the work we’ve done will result in victory on Saturday night. I will do everything I can to win that belt.”

PADRAIG MCCRORY: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me. Leon Bunn is a great fighter, but I’ve come here to win that world title. Traveling doesn’t matter to me, my Irish fans will make for an atmosphere like we’d be fighting at home.”

KALLE SAUERLAND, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman: “It’s great to be back in Germany and to present a world title fight in Germany. This is a true 50/50 fight between two unbeaten fighters with a combined record of 32 wins and no defeats. In boxing, there’s this saying that you don’t want your fighter in the ring against a Mexican or an Irish fighter. But when it’s about a world title, no matter from which organization, you don’t get to choose. You have to take the opportunity that’s presented to you. I’m very confident that Leon will win on Saturday, he’s not just representing himself and his family, but all of Germany. We can expect a cauldron on Saturday in Frankfurt.”

CONNY MITTERMEIER, trainer of Leon Bunn: “We’ve been training for three months, Leon is giving it his all each and every day. He excelled at even the hardest of training sessions. But that’s the path you have to walk when you are fighting for a world title, there are no shortcuts. Leon is in great shape and I’m sure that we will be successful on Saturday.”

JAMIE CONLAN, Team Padraig McCrory: “Camp was brillant. Paddy is an incredible success story in Irish boxing, he is stronger than ever before. You can compare him to a good bottle of wine, he’s getting better with age. He’s stronger, he’s found himself as a fighter and as person. It will be the ultimate test on Saturday night. Obviously, everyone at Wasserman is sure of their man, but I am sure that Paddy will win this fight. He’s got the power in both hands, he’s in incredible shape. Saturday night will be fireworks and a great show for all the fans!”

Leftover tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale via Eventim and can also be acquired at the box office on the night of the fight.

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You can download the full fight card for Saturday night using the following link: WASSERMAN BOXING IN FRANKFURT – FIGHT CARD

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The official weigh-in for Bunn vs. McCrory will take place at the Dorint Parkhotel Frankfurt/Bad Vilbel, Niddastraße 1, 61118 Bad Vilbel, tomorrow at 4pm local time. 

(Oct. 20, 2022) — Light heavyweight contender Leon Bunn hopes to author a signature victory win over undefeated Irishman Padraig McCrory in a 12-round main event this Saturday, Oct. 22 at Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany.
 
In addition to Bunn-McCrory, two of Top Rank’s most dynamic young talents — featherweight Kurt Walker and junior middleweight Kieran Molloy — will see action in separate six-rounders. Molloy will fight 38-bout veteran Sandro Jajanidzez, while Walker steps up against Colombia’s Yin Caicedo (6-4-3, 2 KOs), who has never been knocked out.
 
Fight action will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ at 1:05 p.m. ET/10:05 a.m. PT.
 
Bunn (18-0, 9 KOs) formerly held the IBF International belt and defended that strap in a career-best victory over former world title challenger Enrico Koelling in November 2019. He’s won three bouts since the Koelling triumph, most recently stopping Tunisian southpaw Islam Teffahi. McCrory (14-0, 8 KOs) is an all-action fighter from Belfast who has knocked out his last four foes in five rounds or less. He is coming off a one-sided fifth-round destruction over former world title challenger Marco Antonio Periban.
 
In other scheduled undercard contests:
 
Bilgenur Aras (7-1, 5 KOs) vs. Oksana Romanova (10-33-1, 3 KOs), 6 x 2-minute rounds, bantamweight
 
Daniel Dietz (6-0, 6 KOs) vs. Gyorgy Kutasi (5-15, 3 KOs), 6 rounds, heavyweight
 
Allen Bauer (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Renato Balogh (1-0), 4 rounds, super middleweight
 
Richard Lewicki (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Merab Turkadze (6-17-1, 2 KOs), 4 rounds, middleweight
 
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  

Two future stars of female boxing will take center stage on the undercard of the huge Leon Bunn vs. Padraig McCrory IBO World light heavyweight championship showdownon October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum. Sweden’s top featherweight prospect Lucy Wildheart is set to battle the experienced Italian Angela Cannizzaro over six rounds, while local hero and bantamweight prospect Bilgenur Aras squares off with Oksana Romanova from the Ukraine in another six-round bout.

A world title has been the goal for Lucy Wildheart since day one, as the 29-years old Swedish featherweight star has had her eyes set on world title glory ever since turning professional in 2017. Just last week, she recorded her tenth win as a prizefighter with a six-round shut-out decision over Claudia Ferenczi in Rotherham. She wants to add her second win in two weeks on October 22 in Frankfurt, taking yet another step towards a world title fight in the process. ”I am very much looking forward to coming to Frankfurt and being a part of a Wasserman show. Getting there with my team, I’m looking to put a big performance for the boxing fans,“ Lucy Wildheart said. “I’ve been chasing the dream of becoming a world champion for almost 10 years since I set my goal. I believe Frankfurt could be the path to the world title.“

Bantamweight powerhouse and local favorite Bilgenur Aras will try to to excite her hometown fans in her comeback after a 15-month layoff. The hard-hitting 26-years old captured the UBF World bantamweight championship in her last fight, but has not fought since that title winning effort in July 2021. She will try to get back to fighting rhythm against the experienced Oksana Romanova over six rounds in Frankfurt. “I’m very happy about the opportunity to fight on October 22 after more than a year out of the ring,“ Bilgenur Aras said. “It’s an honor for me to be fighting on such a big stage, and I’m very thankful to Wasserman Boxing for the opportunity. It’s amazing to be fighting in Frankfurt, in my hometown. I can’t wait for the support of my fans on fight night, as I know there will be many of them in the arena.“

Promoter Kalle Sauerland added: ”Lucy Wildheart is a strong fighter on the way to a world title. I’m sure she will deliver fireworks on October 22. With Bilgenur Aras, we have another highly talented fighter in the ring in Frankfurt, a true hometown favorite. The fans can expect a great, great show!“

Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory and a stellar undercard featuring, among others, Lucy Wildheart and Bilgenur Aras on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim.

IBF and IBO World Youth light heavyweight champion Luca Cinqueoncie had to withdraw from his scheduled rematch with Leon Maric due to a sudden illness. The fight was to take place on the undercard of the IBO World light heavyweight championship showdown between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. The Bunn-McCrory fight is presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum.

The 21-years old Cinqueoncie started to feel unwell during recent training sessions, with his performance suddenly deteriorating. After an extensive medical check-up, his doctor diagnosed an infection and unusual blood values and ordered further tests to isolate the cause of the findings.

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “It’s very unfortunate that Luca Cinqueoncie got sick so close to his fight, but we have to follow his doctors advise and cancel the fight. Health always comes first. We wish Luca a quick and full recovery and look forward to working with him in the future.“

Cinqueoncie’s promoter Rainer Gottwald added: ”It’s a sad, sad day for Luca. But I’m sure he will recover soon and celebrate big wins in the ring next year.“

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Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim.

Undefeated super middleweight Leon Bauer had to pull out of his IBF/IBO Youth world title fight against unbeaten Columbian Hacel Gonzalez due to complications from a Covid infection. The fight was scheduled to take place on the undercard of the huge IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany. The Bunn-McCrory showdown is presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum.

The battle between Bauer and Gonzalez was supposed to take place on September 24 in Ludwigshafen but was postponed to October 22 after Bauer first tested positive for the Corona virus. The 24-years old super middleweight experienced mild symptoms at first and was expected to return to training camp in a matter of days. However, Bauer’s condition worsened over the weekend and he was thus advised by his doctor to take a lengthier break from boxing in order to make a full recovery.

“It’s unfortunate that Leon Bauer won’t be able to step into the ring, but health always comes first and Covid is no joke,“ said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We wish him a speedy and full recovery!“

“Unfortunately, Leon Bauer’s symptoms worsened over the last couple of days,“ added Bauer’s promoter Rainer Gottwald. “There’s no reason to worry, but he is having slight problems with his lungs and experiences angina-like symptoms. It will take a while until Leon will be able to step back into the ring. We are sorry for the fans, for Hacel Gonzalez and, of course, for Leon, too, but health is the most important thing, which is why we had no choice but to cancel the fight.“ 

Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim.

wo exciting Youth world title fights have been added to the undercard for the huge IBO World light heavyweight championship showdown between unbeaten local hero Leon Bunn and hard-hitting Irishman Padraig McCrory, brought to you by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum. The unbeaten Luca Cinqueoncie from Offenbach, Germany, will put his WBC and IBF Youth World light heavyweight titles on the line against Leon Maric, while Leon Bauer and Hancel Gonzalez are set to collide in battle of the undefeated for the vacant IBF and IBO Youth World super middleweight titles. Both Youth title fights are presented in collaboration with Rainer Gottwald’s KAIF 5STAR Boxing Promotion. 

The unbeaten Luca Cinqueoncie will have home advantage in Frankfurt, as his birth town of Offenbach is only a few kilometers away from the site of the fight on October 22. It will be a rematch between Cinqueoncie and Maric, as they previously fought in May. The German “Rocky“ won the fight on points, but Maric activated a rematch clause to secure another shot at Cinqueoncie. While the fans can certainly expect an explosive rematch between the two light heavyweights, Cinqueoncie does not lack confidence ahead of the fight: “I want to thank Rainer Gottwald and Kalle Sauerland for this opportunity. It’s a huge honor to be fighting on such a big stage, that’s what you dream of as a kid“, he said. “Frankfurt is close to Offenbach and I can’t wait to put on a show for my fans. It’ll be a great fight, but I’ll bring that victory back home!“

In a battle of undefeated super middleweights, 24-years old Leon Bauer from Kandel, Germany, will square off with 21-years old Hancel Gonzalez from Columbia. The vacant IBF and IBO Youth World titles will be on the line. The fight was originally scheduled for September 24 in Ludwigshafen, but Bauer tested positive for Covid ahead of the bout. While he is still isolated at home, Bauer is already feeling better and is ready to resume training in the next couple of days – with the clear goal in mind to be at his very best on October 22 in Frankfurt!

Promoter Kalle Sauerland is excited by the addition of the two Youth world championships to the Frankfurt Fight Night: “It was a pleasure to work with Rainer Gottwald on securing those two exciting title fights! Luca Cinqueoncie and Leon Bauer are highly talented fighters, ready to make their way to the top. Offenbach is not far from Frankfurt, so Luca will have home advantage as well and I’m sure that many of his fans will make the drive to the arena. Everyone is in for a great event on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle!“

Rainer Gottwald, promoter of both Cinqueoncie and Bauer, cannot wait for the first bell at the Fabriksporthalle either: “Luca and Leon are two tough, strong fighters and they will prove their talent on October 22. It was a great pleasure to work with Kalle and Wasserman Boxing to make this happen. It’s important for German boxing that we all work together and stage big events like this. All the fans from Frankfurt and Offenbach can look forward to an amazing atmosphere on fight night!“

Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory and the two Youth World championships featuring Luca Cinqueoncie and Leon Bauer on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim.

Light heavyweight contender Leon Bunn will have to wait an additional three weeks before finally receiving his long-awaited world title shot! After his original opponent, Daniel Blenda dos Santos, had to pull out of the fight due to an ankle injury, the highly anticipatedevent presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, has been rescheduled for October 22. Tickets bought for the original date of October 1 will remain valid.

A new opponent for 28-year-old local hero Leon Bunn has already been found: He will now face unbeaten power-puncher Padraig McCrory from Ireland for the vacant IBO World light heavyweight championship. McCrory, called “The Hammer“, is unbeaten in 14 fights, with 8 big wins by way of knockout, and was scheduled to fight for the EBU-EU title on October 22 in Belfast. However, when the opportunity to fight for a world title came along, he immediately jumped at it. 

The undefeated Leon Bunn is unmoved by the change of opponent and date, saying, “I’m glad that we found a new opponent so fast. I have great respect for Padraig McCrory and I certainly won’t overlook him. However, my goal is set in stone: On October 22, I will become champion of the world in front of my fans in Frankfurt – and nobody will stop me! I can’t wait to enter the ring that night.“

Padraig McCrory does not lack confidence either, as he is predicting a knockout win on October 22: “I’m relishing the opportunity to become the IBO World champion, fighting in Leon Bunn’s backyard adds an extra fire in the belly and will make the rewards of winning this title so much sweeter. I’ve seen plenty of Leon Bunn, he’s a really good boxer, but I don’t think he can take my power for 12 rounds.“

Promoter Kalle Sauerland is expecting an exciting and action-packed showdown in Frankfurt: “After dos Santos’ injury, we knew that we had to postpone the event in order to find a suitable opponent for Leon. We did! It’s a big, big chance for Padraig McCrory, he can become world champion. He’s unbeaten, he’s powerful, he has that Irish mentality and all of that makes him a very dangerous opponent. Leon has to be at his absolute best to win the world title in front of his fans on October 22.“

Jamie Conlan, a former world title challenger himself and manager of Padraig McCrory, is confident in his fighters’ ability to return to Ireland with the IBO belt around his waist: “We where planning and preparing for the EU title but this opportunity came up and Pody jumped at it. I totally believe going into the Lions Den will bring out the best in Pody McCrory. Leon is a very good, accomplished boxer and Pody has knockout power in either hand, both guys come in undefeated with great confidence and I believe it will be a very entertaining fight.“

Tickets for the IBO World light heavyweight championship between Leon Bunn and Padraig McCrory presented by Wasserman Boxing in association with Probellum on October 22 at the Fabriksporthalle in Frankfurt, Germany, are on sale now and can be bought via Eventim. 

Michael Conlan rebounded from his first professional loss to win a 10-round unanimous decision over Miguel Marriaga in a featherweight bout in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

In round seven, Conlan was credited with a knockdown when landed a left as Marriaga seemed to be slipping down. In round eight, Conlan sent Marriaga down again with a combination. Marriaga went down in round nine when he he ate more punches from Conlan.

Conlan, 127.9 lbs of Belfast, NI won by scores of 99-88 twice and 99-89 and is now 17-1. Marriaga, 126.4 lbs of Colombia is 30-6.

Conlan said, “I had to get rid of a lot of demons tonight. Even in the fuc*ing last round, he hit me with a shot. That guy can punch. {He has} 10 more knockouts than I have fights. He hit me with a jab in the first round, and it was like, ‘Oh, this guy actually can bang.’ I had to be careful and use my skills, which I did. In the last round, he caught me with a shot. Listen, I’ve been using my legs all night. I was a bit off the pace. He was pushing it. He landed a good shot. He buckled me a little bit. I felt it, and for me, to kind of come through that and it’s the last round… I got knocked out in my last fight in the last round. I think that says a lot. I’m back, baby. I’m ready for any of them.

“Obviously, I want Leigh Wood. It’s obvious, but Leigh has his own situation. So, hopefully he can deal with that and come through and the rematch can be done. If not, it’s any other champion. I want to get back in. I will be world champion, and I know I will. Whoever I face, I know I’ll beat him.”

Tyrone McKenna won a 10-round unanimous decision over Chris Jenkins in a welterweight bout.

McKenna, 147.4 lbs won by scores of 97-94 and 96-95 twice and is now 23-5-1. Jenkins, 146.8 lbs is now 23-6-3.

Padraig McCrory remained undefeated with a fifth round stoppage over former world title challenger Marco Antonio Periban in a 10-round super middleweight affair.

In round two, McCrory dropped Periban with a right hand.  In round five, McCrory continued to batter Periban until the referee stopped the bout at 2:40.

McCrory, 167.9 lbs of Northern Ireland is 14-0 with eight knockouts.  Periban, 165 lbs of Mexico is 26-6-1.

Kurt Walker won a six-round decision over Marcos Gabriel Martinez in a featherweight bout.

Walker, 127.6 lbs won by a score of 59-55 and is now 3-0.  Martinez, 126.2 lbs is 18-4.

Paddy Donovan remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Tom Hill in a welterweight bout.

In round two, Hill began to bleed from the nose.

Donovan, 146.8 lbs of Limerick, IRE won by a 80-72 tally and is now 9-0.  Hill, 147 lbs of Sunderland, ENG is 10-3.

Donovan said, “It’s very important to get the rounds in. Tommy is a very, very tough fighter. We knew that before. He hopped in the ring before he accepted the challenge. He’s beat the Irish number one welterweight, knocking him down twice in the fight, so we know what he’s capable of.”

Akeem Ennis-Brown won a 12-round unanimous decision over Phillip Bowes in a junior welterweight bout in Yorkshire, England.

In round eight, Bowes was deducted a point for low holding.

Ennis-Brown, 139 lbs won by scores of 115-112 twice and 116-111 and is now 14-0. Bowes, 140 lbs of London is 20-4.

Dan Azeez stopped Andre Sterling in round nine of a scheduled 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In round six, Azeez landed a right that put Sterling down. Azeez continued the beatdown until the towel was thrown in at 1:59 of round nine.

Azeez, 174 lbs of London is 12-0 with eight knockouts. Sterling, 174 lbs of London is 11-3.

Padraig McCrory remained undefeated by blasting out Mickey Ellison in 70 seconds of their eight-round super middleweight fight.

McCrory landed a huge right that sent Ellison down for the count at 1:10.

McCrory, 170 lbs is 11-0 with five knockouts. Ellison is 12-3.

Elliot Whale stopped Cory McCulloch in the opening round of a scheduled six-round bout featuring undefeated welterweights.

Whale landed a perfect left to the body that dropped McCulloch. McCulloch got to his feet, but was in no condition to continue at 1:57

Whale, 150 lbs of Sidcup, UK is 3-0 with one knockout. McCulloch, 149 lbs of Arbrough, SCO is 4-1.

Harlem Eubank scored a last-minute stoppage over Martin McDonage of their super lightweight bout.

Eubank landed a hard right that sent McDonage to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 2:36

Eubank, 143 lbs of Brighton is 10-0 with three knockouts. McDonage, 142 1/4 lbs is 8-2.

Mark McKeown stopped Levi Dunn in the final round of their four-round featherweight bout.

McKeown beat up Dunn until the fight was stopped at

McKeown, 127 lbs is 3-0 with one knockout. Dunn, 127 3/4 lbs is 0-1.