Angulo wins split decision over Quillin in a war

In an exciting 10-round super middleweight clash, Alfredo Angulo took a split decision over former middleweight champion Peter Quillin at The Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

The rocked each other throughout the bou

In round seven, Angulo was cut around the left eye. Although Quillin outlanded Angulo 291-164, it was the more powerful shots of Angulo that forged him ahead on two cards by 97-93 and 96-94 tallies. Quillin took a card 96-94.

Angulo, 167.6 lbs of Mexicali, MX is 26-7. Quillin, 167.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 34-2-1.

Chris Colbert scored a spectacular 1st round stoppage over Miguel Beltran Jr. in a scheduled 10-round super featherweight bout.

Colbert dumped Beltran face-first with a perfect 1-2 combination, and the fight was stopped at

Colbert, 132.6 lbs of Brooklyn is 13-0 with five knockouts. Beltran, 132 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 33-8.

Thomas Dulorme outslugged previously undefeated Terrel Williams via 10-round unanimous decision on a welterweight fight.

In round eight, Delorme was cut over his left eye from an accidental headbutt. In round ten, Dulorme dropped Williams with a hard left.

Dulorme, 146,4 lbs of Puerto Rico won by scores of 98-91 twice and 96-93 and is now 25-3-1. Williams, 146.4 lbs of Inglewood, CA is 18-1.

Jesus Ramos stopped Rickey Edwards in round three of a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout.

Ramos dropped Edwards hard with a straight left hand, and the bout was immediately stopped at 2:40.

Ramos, 142.4 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ is 11-0 with 10 knockouts. Edwards, 142.6 lbs of Paterson, NJ is 12-4.

Michel Rivera stopped Jose Luis Gallegos after round five of their scheduled eight round lightweight bout.

Rivera, 136 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR 17-0 with 11 knockouts. Gallegos, 136.8 lbs of Chicago is 16-8.

2016 Russian Olympian Petr Khamukov stopped Randy Fuentes in round four of their scheduled eight-round middleweight bout.

In round two, Khamukov dropped Fuentes with a left hook. Seconds later, it was a quick flurry that put Fuentes down for a 2nd time. Khamukov scored a knockdown from a straight right hand to begin the 4th round. Moments later, Fuentes hit the canvas again from a combination on the inside, and the fight was stopped at 2:21.

Khamukov, 160 lbs of Russia is 44-0 with one knockout Fuentes, 160.8 lbs of McAllen, TX is 9-9-1.

Jonathan Esquivel stopped Justin Steave in round two of their scheduled eight-round middleweight bout.

In round one, Esquivel dropped stopped Steave with a big left hook. Seconds later, it was another big left hook that followed by a right that sent Steave down again. In round two, it was a body shot that sent Steave down again. Steave got to his feet, but the fight was waved off at 1:21.

Esquivel, 164 lbs of Anaheim, CA is now 12-0 with 11 knockouts. 163 lbs of Pittsburgh, PA is 10-3.

Unbeaten Prospects Michel Rivera, Jonathan Esquivel and Petr Khamukov Compete in Separate Attractions on FS2 PBC Fight Night Prelims & on FOX Deportes Saturday, September 21 from Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California

BAKERSFIELD, CA. (September 16, 2019) – Unbeaten prospects will enter the ring as lightweight Michel Rivera competes in an eight-round bout against Jose Luis Gallegos, middleweight Jonathan Esquivel steps in for an eight-round fight against Justin Steave and middleweight Petr Khamukov duels Randy Fuentes in a four or six round showdown on Saturday, September 21 as part of FS2 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT from Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

Jeison Rosario was originally scheduled to face Bakhram Murtazaliev in Prelims action, but was forced to withdraw due to a shoulder injury.

The event is headlined by former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin dueling hard-hitting Alfredo Angulo in a 12-round super middleweight showdown in the main event of FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.rabobankarena.com and AXS.com.

Undercard attractions are highlighted by undefeated bantamweight Antonio Russell (15-0, 11 KOs) battling former title challenger David Carmona (21-6-5, 9 KOs) in a 10-round bout and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (10-0, 10 KOs) in an eight round super lightweight attraction against Mexico’s Mario Alberto Perez Navarro (5-4-2, 2 KOs). Plus, unbeaten lightweight Jerry Perez (11-0, 8 KOs) takes on Colombia’s Marlon Olea (14-5, 12 KOs) in an eight-round fight, Mexican prospect Francisco Ochoa (15-0, 9 KOs) faces Clay Burns (8-5-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight tussle and Oklahoma City’s Aaron Morales (7-0, 3 KOs) duels Los Angeles-native Sergio Quiroz (6-2, 1 KO) for an eight-round bantamweight match.

Additional fights include unbeaten Viktor Slavinskyi in an eight round super featherweight attraction against Phoenix’s Jesus Aguinaga, undefeated bantamweight Robert Rodriguez battling Mexico’s Hugo Rodriguez in a six-round fight. Rounding out the fights are bouts featuring unbeaten bantamweight Jose Balderas stepping into the ring for a six-round bantamweight battle against Houston’s Josue Morales and a six-round super bantamweight showdown featuring Los Angeles-native Daniel Guzman taking on Mexico’s Roberto Pucheta.

The 21-year-old Rivera (16-0, 10 KOs) turned pro in 2016 and is unbeaten, including a 10-round decision victory over then undefeated Marco Acevedo in 2017. Fighting out of his native Dominican Republic, Rivera made his U.S. debut in June with a victory over previously unbeaten Rene Tellez Giron. He will be opposed by the 24-year-old Gallegos (16-7, 12 KOs) who fights out of Chicago

Representing Anaheim, California, Esquivel (11-0, 10 KOs) most recently delivered a first round knockout over Gregory Clark in July and has knocked out his last three opponents. A pro since 2017, the 24-year-old will take on the 33-year-old Steave (10-2, 4 KOs) who fights out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and has won four of his last five fights entering September 21.

A 2016 Russian Olympian, Khamukov (3-0) turned pro in 2018 and has picked up three victories, including most recently defeating Nodar Tskhovrebadze in February. The 28-year-old will be opposed by the 31-year-old Fuentes (9-8-1, 2 KOs), who fights out of McAllen, Texas and is coming off a decision victory in July.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

Former World Champion Peter Quillin Takes on Hard-Hitting Alfredo Angulo in FS1 PBC Fight Night Main Event & on FOX Deportes Saturday, September 21 from Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California

BAKERSFIELD, CA. (August 22, 2019) – Former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin will duel hard-hitting Alfredo Angulo in a 12-round super middleweight showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes on Saturday, September 21 from Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

Coverage on FS1 begins at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT and features fast-rising prospect Chris “Prime Time” Colbert entering the ring for a 10-round lightweight matchup against former title challenger Miguel Beltran Jr., plus unbeaten welterweight Terrel Williams goes up against Thomas Dulorme in a 10-round attraction, while unbeaten prospect Jesus Ramos takes on Rickey Edwards in a 10-round super lightweight match to open FS1 PBC Fight Night.

FS2 PBC Fight Night Prelims will precede the main card and begin at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT, highlighted by hard-hitting Jeison Rosario against unbeaten Bakhram Murtazaliev in a 12-round IBF 154-pound title eliminator.

“This is a great fight card with anything a boxing fan could want, featuring former champions, top contenders and future stars, all in evenly-match bouts that promise drama,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Peter Quillin vs. Alfredo Angulo promises to be a good, old fashion slugfest with two fighters looking to prove they’re ready for a world title fight next. With exciting prospects like Chris Colbert and Jesus Ramos, plus evenly matched fights between contenders in Williams vs. Dulorme and Rosario vs. Murtazaliev, this will be an action-packed night from top to bottom.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale Saturday, August 24 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at www.rabobankarena.com and AXS.com.

Quillin (34-1-1, 23 KOs) is seeking to climb back into the championship ranks and must go through Angulo before reaching them. The 36-year-old, who was born in Chicago and now lives in Brooklyn, won the middleweight world title against Hassan N’Dam in 2012. He successfully defended it three times. He is coming off a no-decision against former super middleweight champion Caleb Truax on April 13 in an FS1 PBC Fight Night main event. He had taken the first two rounds on all three judges’ scorecards before the action was halted when a deep cut over Truax’s right eye, caused by an accidental head butt, brought an end to the fight and resulted in a no-decision.

“It looks like the Caleb Truax fight wasn’t meant to be, but this fight against Angulo is an important fight for me to establish myself in this division,” said Quillin, who was originally scheduled to rematch Truax on August 31, before Truax withdrew due to an Achilles injury. “I’m ready to go 12 rounds right now. I just have to stay ready and stay in shape because we’ve had a great camp where we were able to build on certain things. This is what was meant to be and I’m going to make the most of it with a great performance on September 21.”

Angulo (25-7, 21 KOs) enters the match against Quillin after a knockout victory over Evert Bravo on April 20. The 37-year-old veteran, who was born in Mexicali, Mexico and now lives in Coachella, California, has been in with some of the top boxers and sluggers during a career that has seen him in numerous exciting bouts against the likes of Canelo Alvarez and Erislandy Lara amongst others.

“I am looking forward to showing my fans the best Alfredo Angulo on September 21,” said Angulo. “I have been working hard towards this opportunity. This is a chance to move closer to a world title and with hard work and the support of my team, I’m going to win that title.”

Representing his hometown of Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (12-0, 4 KOs) has begun to make a name for himself showing off tremendous skills across his first 12 pro victories. The 22-year-old turned pro in 2019 after an impressive amateur career and most recently dominated Alberto Mercado on his way to a unanimous decision on FOX in June.

“I’m dedicating this bout to the fight against childhood cancer,” said Colbert, who was inspired after recently being introduced to a young fan who has cancer. “I plan on going in to Rabobank Arena and doing what I do best on September 21. I never make predictions for my fights, but I’m always looking to dominate and if the knockout comes then it comes. I have a job to do and I just have to stay focused on the man in front of me. It’s going to be ‘Prime Time’ on September 21 so that fans will want to make sure to tune-in for this one.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Beltran (33-7, 22 KOs) will return to action after dropping a decision to former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa last November. The 30-year-old challenged Roman Martinez for a super featherweight title and lost by split decision in September 2012.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity to fight Chris Colbert on FS1 and FOX Deportes,” said Beltran. “I have fought the best 130 pounders in the world – Rocky Martinez, Gamboa, Mickey Roman and I have challenged for the world title twice. This is the type of fight I need on national TV to get myself back in contention. I’m very serious about winning and happy to have my training camp in Los Angeles with my cousin, former world champion Ray Beltran, who is helping me prepare for victory.”

Williams (18-0, 13 KOs) extended his unbeaten record in April with a split decision victory over Justin DeLoach in Las Vegas. The 35-year-old from Los Angeles previously won a decision over David Grayton in September 2018.

A longtime contender, Dulorme (24-3-1, 16 KOs) earned a majority draw in his last fight against former world champion Jessie Vargas last October. The 29-year-old had previously dropped a narrow decision to top contender Yordenis Ugas in August 2017. That defeat came after a streak where the Puerto Rican fighter won eight of nine fights, with his only loss during that stretch coming in a title fight against Terrence Crawford.

At just 18-years-old, Ramos (10-0, 9 KOs) scored knockouts in his first nine fights since turning pro last May. The Casa Grande, Arizona-native most recently went the distance for the first time in his pro career, winning a shutout unanimous decision over Kevin Shacks in June on FOX.

Fighting out of Paterson, New Jersey, Edwards (12-3, 3 KOs) won his first 11 pro fights including victories over then unbeaten fighters Azriel Paez and John Delperdang. The 29-year-old most recently lost a decision to undefeated Mykquan Williams in May.

The 24-year-old Rosario (19-1-1, 13 KOs) has won his last five fights and is unbeaten in eight bouts since his only pro loss to Nathaniel Gallimore in 2017. The Dominican-born fighter residing in Florida has taken down a slew of contenders and top prospects including Jamontay Clark, Justin DeLoach, Marcos Hernandez and most recently, Jorge Cota on FS1 in April.

Russia’s Murtazaliev(16-0, 13 KOs), who now resides in Oxnard, California and is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014. The 26-year-old has delivered knockout victories over Elvin Ayala and Bruno Leonardo Romay in 2019.

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Unbeaten Rising Heavyweight Frank Sanchez Battles Puerto Rican Olympian Victor Bisbal in Heavyweight Attraction Saturday, August 31 on FOX PBC Fight Night & on FOX Deportes from The Armory in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (August 22, 2019) – Fast-rising Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez will face Puerto Rican Olympian Victor Bisbal in a 10-round heavyweight showdown as part of FOX PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes Saturday, August 31 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

Sanchez vs. Bisbal replaces the previously scheduled bout between former champions Peter Quillin and Caleb Truax, after Truax was forced to withdraw due to an Achilles injury.

Coverage on FOX and FOX Deportes begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by former world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara battling Ramon Alvarez in a 12-round bout for the WBA Super Welterweight title. The co-main event will see a pair of sensational young super welterweights collide as Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora takes on Jamontay “The Quiet Assassin” Clark in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

A former amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sanchez (12-0, 10 KOs) now lives in Las Vegas and is unbeaten since turning pro in 2017. The 27-year-old scored knockouts in his first six pro fights, and picked up nine victories in 2018. Sanchez most recently scored a dominant second round stoppage over Jason Bergman at The Armory in July.

After representing Puerto Rico at the 2004 Olympic games, Bisbal (23-3, 17 KOs) won 21 of his first 22 pro fights, including a 16-fight winning streak from late 2006 until 2013. He suffered defeats to Dominic Breazeale and Magomed Abdusalamov before winning his last two fights heading into August 31. His last outing saw him Edson Roberto Dos Santos Borges in December 2018.

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Truax out of Quillin rematch with Achilles injury

Former super middleweight titlist Caleb Truax is out of his August 31 rematch with Peter Quilin with an Achilles injury.

“I’ve been training hard every day, and I’ve always prided myself on pushing through any injuries,” Truax said. “But I know my body, and I know when enough is enough. I’m disappointed because this was a huge opportunity to take a big step toward regaining my IBF super middleweight title.

“I’m disappointed for all my fans because I wanted to put on a great show for them at The Armory. But I didn’t want to go into this fight, not being able to perform at a level that people are used to seeing from me and also performing at a level so I can defeat a world-class fighter like Peter Quillin.

“In my judgment, he will not be properly rehabbed and conditioned in time for the scheduled match,” Dr, Paul Schaefer said. “I am concerned he would put his personal safety at risk engaging in this fight.” “

Former World Champion Erislandy Lara Battles Ramon Alvarez for Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title in FOX PBC Fight Night Main Event Saturday, August 31 from The Armory in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (July 11, 2019) – Former world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara looks to get one step closer to returning to the world championship ranks when he battles Ramon Alvarez in a 12-round bout for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight title in the primetime main event of FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 31 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

In the co-feature, former world champions Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin and Minneapolis-native Caleb “Golden” Truax will settle their unfinished business in a rematch as they again meet in an IBF Super Middleweight Title eliminator. In the TV opener, a pair of sensational young super welterweights collide as Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora takes on Jamontay “The Quiet Assassin” Clark in an eight or 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, go on sale Saturday, July 13 and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

“This is a fantastic lineup of high-stakes matchups coming to FOX and FOX Deportes on August 31 and one that should deliver once again for the fans at The Armory in Minneapolis,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “Each show has gotten bigger at bigger at The Armory, and this will be the biggest event yet. Erislandy Lara is a household name in the sport and he will look to make a statement against Ramon Alvarez that he’s still amongst the best at 154-pounds. With the rematch between Peter Quillin and Minnesota’s-own Caleb Truax set for the co-main event, there will be an electric atmosphere once again to spur these fighters to give their best performances.”

Lara (25-3-3, 14 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a title unification match in 2018 that was the unanimous “Fight of the Year”. Lara returned to the ring in March as he battled Brian Castano to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. This showdown against Alvarez can put Lara back in position reclaim the top spot in the position that he once owned.

The slick southpaw who was born in Guantanamo, Cuba and now lives in Houston has faced off against some of the most accomplished boxers at 154-pounds, including champions Saul Alvarez and Austin Trout. Lara reigned for four years after becoming the full world champion in 2014 and leading up to the fight against Hurd.

“I’m very excited to be headlining another great PBC event, this time on FOX and FOX Deportes,” said Lara. “This fight against Ramon Alvarez is personal for me, as I have history with the Alvarez family. Expect another great fight and a spectacular performance. I can’t wait to perform at this tremendous venue in Minneapolis. Don’t miss this fight, because I’m going for the knockout.”

The 32-year-old Alvarez (28-7-3, 16 KOs) is the older brother of middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and will be fighting for just the second time in the U.S. In his first fight in the U.S. last November, the fighter from Guadalajara, Mexico lost to former world champion Brandon Rios. He bounced back from that loss with a decision victory over Jose Carlos Paz in his last fight on April 6.

“I am very excited for this opportunity to fight for a chance at the world title,” said Alvarez. “I’ve worked hard my whole career for a fight like this and I’m going to take advantage. My brother beat Lara a few years back and I’m going to be the next Alvarez to beat Lara.”

Quillin (34-1-1, 23 KOs) thought he was on his way to a victory when he met Truax in their first fight on April 13 in an FS1 PBC Fight Night main event. He had taken the first two rounds on all three judges’ scorecards before the action was halted when a deep cut over Truax’s right eye, caused by an accidental head butt, brought an end to the fight and resulted in a no-decision.

The 36-year-old Quillin, who was born in Chicago and now lives in Brooklyn, heads back to Truax’s hometown looking to secure his world title shot at super middleweight. Quillin is a former world champion at 160-pounds, having won a middleweight title against Hassan N’Dam in 2012 before defending it successfully three times.

“I’m going to finish what I started this time,” said Quillin. “I’m treating this like any other fight and working hard to put on my best performance August 31. I was in control of the first fight and ready to go for it. I’ll be ready again for a dominant statement when we get back in the ring.”

The 35-year-old Truax (30-4-2, 19 KOs) said post fight that he had planned to wear Quillin down in the later rounds of their April clash that was cut short. He will have the opportunity to implement his plan and earn a shot at becoming a two-time world champion in front of his hometown crowd on August 31.

Truax went to England and upset James DeGale for the IBF title by majority decision in one of 2017’s biggest upsets. He lost the title in a close unanimous decision in the rematch in 2018. A former college football standout from St. Michael, Minnesota, Truax turned pro in 2007 and has faced some of the best boxers at middleweight and super middleweight in his career, including Quillin, DeGale, Daniel Jacobs and Anthony Dirrell.

“I’m ecstatic to have the opportunity to run it back against Peter Quillin at home again at The Armory,” said Truax. “The ending of the first fight was a huge buzzkill to what had shaped up to be a great night. We obviously have unfinished business and I am again confident I will get the job done.”

The 6-foot-6 Fundora (13-0, 9 KOs) has begun to display tremendous power and has stopped his last five opponents inside of the distance. The 21-year-old southpaw from Coachella, California typically has a height and reach advantage over most of his opponents and makes the most of it. His last two fights have seen him knockout previously unbeaten fighters in Hector Manuel Zepeda in June and Donnie Marshall in February on FOX.

“I’m very focused right now on training hard, taking it day-by-day and giving a great performance on August 31,” said Fundora. “I’m preparing for an experienced fighter and a good chess match. This is one of the tallest guys I’ve fought as a pro, plus he’s a southpaw. I’m ready for a challenge and following my team’s guidance to be at my best.”

The 24-year-old Clark (14-1, 7 KOs) suffered the only loss of his pro career when he dropped a unanimous decision to Jeison Rosario at The Armory in Minneapolis on August 24. The Cincinnati-native bounced back from that loss with a unanimous decision victory over then unbeaten Vernon Brown in his last fight on March 24. He returns to The Armory for the tallest order of his career against Fundora, with the winner set to shoot up the 154-pound rankings.

“I’m feeling really strong right now and ready to show the new Jamontay Clark on August 31,” said Clark. “I’m going to show everyone how the shorter fighter can out box a taller opponent. I know he’s got length and throws a lot of punches, but I’ll be ready for everything he brings. This is the start of a new beginning. I’m bringing the pressure and pain for this one.”

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PETER QUILLIN VS. CALEB TRUAX FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

MINNEAPOLIS (April 11, 2019) – Former world champions Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin and Caleb “Golden” Truax went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they meet in an IBF Super Middleweight World Title Eliminator that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes this Saturday from the Armory in Minneapolis.

Also in attendance at the press conference were top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Jack Culcay, who battle in an IBF Middleweight Title Eliminator, and sensational prospect Joey Spencer, who takes on Osias Vasquez to kick off the telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now, and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Generals Hall at The Armory:

PETER QUILLIN

“I’m here to put on a great fight. That’s what we worked so hard to do on Saturday night. I’m excited to showcase my talents on FS1 and FOX Deportes and make a statement at super middleweight.

“My wife just had a daughter, and that’s been my biggest motivation all training camp. I’m fighting for my family, not just myself. I’m hoping to inspire people who see my story and realize it’s not just about the fight, but about what we’re fighting for. I’m here to spread a positive message.

“When we’re in that ring, all I’m going to see is Caleb Truax, nothing else matters. I’m very fortunate to be here and have the chance to display my skills. He has to look good in front of his fans, and I’m just here to give the fans a good fight. There’s no pressure to do anything extra.

“The weather here kind of reminds me of back home in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Going to new cities is kind of like having new places to conquer. I’m here with the right mindset that Minnesota is going to be a place I’m remembered and that I’ll have a great memory from.

“When I sparred Caleb I remember I knocked his headgear off and it flew across the ring, that’s the only thing I really remember from that. I knew our paths could eventually cross. I’ve had my eye on him and I was really happy for him when he won his title. I have a feeling we’re going to combine for a great fight.

“I have a very determined opponent and I’m fighting in his backyard. It’s a tough fight for both of us. I have to put my authority down on this fight and control it. It’s going to be hard with all his fans in there, but what I’ve always done is take negative circumstances, and turn them into positives.”

CALEB TRUAX

“I’m excited for Saturday night. It’s a big fight and important for me that I’m in the main event and in a title eliminator. I’m looking to earn a chance at another title and I know that I have to take care of business on Saturday to get there.

“I’m looking forward to sharing the ring with Peter Quillin, a guy I’ve known and respected for a while. He’s accomplished a lot. I think that our styles are really going to clash and give the fans a lot of action and drama.

“Peter and I sparred a long time ago, back in 2012. I came away feeling confident that if we ever fought, I’d be able to get the job done. I don’t remember much of the specifics, but I felt confident from the experience. At the same time, I’m expecting an even better Peter Quillin on Saturday night and that’s what I trained for.

“I’ve tried to train a little bit smarter for this one. I need to focus more on recovery at this point in my career. I’ve had pretty much the same team around me for a while now. We do the old school training and work hard every day.

“The stakes are high for this fight. Whoever wins hopefully gets a crack at the title. It’s going to be tough for the loser to bounce back. If I want to keep fighting I have to leave Saturday with my hand raised.

“It’s a thrill to be in this fight and have it here at The Armory in front of my hometown fans. I saw the support that (fellow Minnesota-native) Jamal James got for his last fight, and I’m expecting more of that on Saturday. It’s going to be special and I’m going to take advantage.”

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO

“I’m happy to be here for this world title elimination fight. This fight is important for my career to get back to where I want to go and to show what I am capable of.

“On Saturday night I’m going to put on a really good show and give the fans a beautiful fight. Everyone knows I always bring action and great technical skill. I am confident that I will be victorious on Saturday and go on to win a world championship.”

JACK CULCAY

“It’s nice to be here and I’m very thankful for this opportunity against Derevyanchenko. It’s a great honor for me to be in this fight against one of the best middleweights in the world. This the step that I was looking to take in my career.

“I’ve been sparring with Caleb Truax, and I feel it’s gotten me completely ready for this challenge. I’m going to show it in the ring on Saturday night. It’s going to be a lot of action and a lot of skill in the ring.”

JOEY SPENCER

“I’m really excited to be fighting on this card headlined by Peter Quillin and Caleb Truax. I want to thank everyone for the support, both my fans and my team for everything that’s gotten me here. We’ve worked really hard every day in training camp and I can’t wait to put on a show.

“The Armory is a great venue with great energy. I’ve fought here before and I’m looking forward to coming out and putting on another great performance for this Minneapolis crowd.”

LEON MARGULES, President of Warriors Boxing

“I’m excited to welcome everyone back to the latest PBC fight night at the armory. Those who have come to the previous shows have noticed that the crowds have gotten larger and larger. These shows are generating great excitement and Saturday is another example of a card loaded with elite fighters.

“It’s really a terrific treat to be promoting this card. It should be a great night of boxing for everyone at The Armory and watching on FS1 or FOX Deportes. This card is stacked from top to bottom and is set to deliver from start to finish.”

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ABOUT QUILLIN VS. TRUAX
Quillin vs. Truax will see former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin and Caleb “Golden” Truax battle in a 12-round IBF Super Middleweight title eliminator that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko taking on Jack Culcay in a 12-round IBF title eliminator and sensational undefeated prospect Joey Spencer stepping into the ring for a six-round super welterweight fight.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

Unbeaten Rising Prospect Chris Colbert Takes on Mexico’s Mario Briones, Plus Super Lightweight Jose Miguel Borrego Steps into the Ring as Part of Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS2 & FOX Deportes Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis – 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

MINNEAPOLIS (March 26, 2019) – Unbeaten rising prospect Chris Colbert will take on Mexico’s Mario Briones in a 10-round lightweight showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS2 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

Prelims begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see super lightweight Jose Miguel Borrego (14-2, 13 KOs) in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now, and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Sensational undefeated prospect Joey Spencer (6-0, 6 KOs) will step into the ring for a six-round super welterweight bout that will kick off the PBC on FS1 main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The event is headlined by former world champions Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin and Minnesota-native Caleb “Golden” Truax battling in a 12-round IBF super middleweight title eliminator, and also features top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko taking on Jack Culcay in a 12-round IBF title eliminator.

Non-televised action will see unbeaten Darwin Price (13-0, 6 KOs) facing Los Angeles-native Yakubu Amidu (21-9-2, 19 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight attraction, Minneapolis-native VeShawn Owens (9-2, 9 KOs) taking on Texas’ Alexis Gaytan (5-2, 2 KOs) for eight rounds of welterweight action and undefeated bantamweight Shawn Simpson (9-0, 3 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight showdown against Mexico’s Gilberto Mendoza (12-7-2, 4 KOs).

Rounding out the card is unbeaten St. Petersburg, Florida-native Mycheal Teal in a four-round middleweight contest against Antonio Louis Hernandez and undefeated Uriel Lara out of Coon, Rapids, Minnesota facing Jeremiah De Los Santos for four-rounds of welterweight action.

Representing his hometown of Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (10-0, 3 KOs) has begun to make a name for himself showing off tremendous skills across his first 10 pro victories. The 22-year-old most recently dominated Josh Hernandez on FS1 in January and he will return to fight at The Armory for the second time after defeating then unbeaten Austin Dulay on FS1 last April. 33-year-old Briones (29-8-2, 21 KOs) fights out of Aguascalientes, Mexico and most recently fought former champion Scott Quigg in October.

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Former World Champions Collide as Peter Quillin Takes on Minnesota-Native Caleb Truax in Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Main Event Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (February 21, 2019) – Former world champions will go toe-to-toe as Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin faces Minnesota-native Caleb “Golden” Truax in a 12-round IBF super middleweight title eliminator that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko taking on Jack Culcay in a 12-round IBF title eliminator, plus unbeaten rising prospect Chris Colbert will compete in an undercard attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, go on sale Saturday, February 23, and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

“Quillin vs. Truax is a true 50-50 matchup of former world champions looking to put themselves in position to grab another world title,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “Truax will have the hometown crowd in Minnesota behind him, but Quillin has fought at the highest level against top competition for years. It has all the makings of a dramatic fight, and combined with the Derevyanchenko vs. Culcay middleweight eliminator, it’s going to make for an action packed night at the Armory and on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”

“Both of these are fantastic matchups because there are championship implications on the line,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “That adds to the motivation for each of the guys stepping into the ring. For Qullin and Truax, they both know what it means to be a world champion and this is their opportunity to return to that status. There is always a lot of energy in the Armory for these types of matches and that really carries over to the FS1 and FOX Deportes broadcast for those watching at home. It promises to be a very entertaining evening for all boxing fans.”

A former middleweight champion, Quillin (34-1-1, 23 KOs) delivered in his second bout at super middleweight, defeating J’Leon Love last August by unanimous decision. Born in Chicago and raised Michigan, Quillin has called Brooklyn, N.Y. home throughout a pro career that saw him win a world title against Hassan N’Dam in 2012 and defend it three times. His only loss came to Daniel Jacobs in 2015 after battling former champion Andy Lee to a draw earlier that year.

“I’m approaching this fight very seriously because I know Truax is a durable guy who knows how to fight,” said Quillin. “He comes from a background where people don’t give him credit for what he’s done, and those are the most dangerous guys. I’m no stranger to fighting in my opponent’s backyard. My job is to go into the ring and go home with the win. I’m looking to walk away with some of his fans on my side by winning the fight and putting on a great performance.”

Fighting out of Osseo, Minnesota, Truax (30-4-2, 19 KOs) pulled off one of 2017’s biggest upsets when he traveled to London to defeat James DeGale and become a 168-pound world champion. The 35-year-old lost a hard-fought rematch to DeGale in 2018 and most recently scored a third-round stoppage of Fabiano Soares at the Armory in August.

“Peter Quillin is someone I’ve wanted to fight since I first sparred with him in 2012,” said Truax. “I walked away from that experience confident that I could get the job done if we were ever matched together. The fact that it’s taking place at home in Minnesota is even better because my fans are going to give me a huge advantage. My goal is to get back into title contention and win my second world title.”

A 2008 Olympian for his native Ukraine, Derevyanchenko (12-1, 10 KOs) has made his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. since turning pro in July 2014. The 33-year-old was unbeaten in his first 12 fights, earning a world title fight with a final-round stoppage of Tureano Johnson in 2017. He most recently dropped a narrow split-decision to Daniel Jacobs in a middleweight title fight in October.

Culcay (25-3, 13 KOs) is originally from Ecuador, spent much of his career fighting out of Germany, and now lives in Florida. He enters this bout on a three-fight winning streak after picking up a trio of wins in 2018. He had previously held an interim 154-pound titles before losing close decisions against Demetrius Andrade and Maciej Sulecki.

Andre Berto vs. Devon Alexander & Peter Quillin vs. J’Leon Love Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

LONG ISLAND, NY. (August 2, 2018) – Former welterweight world champions Andre Berto and Devon Alexander went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before their primetime main event Saturday, August 4 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Also competing on Saturday’s telecast that starts at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT and squaring-off Thursday were former champion Peter Quillin and super middleweight contender J’Leon Love. Additional action on FOX and FOX Deportes will feature rising unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer in a super welterweight attraction.

Headlining the FS2 and FOX Deportes telecast beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. ET is unbeaten contender Marcus Browne of Staten Island, who takes on Lenin Castillo, and former champion Luis Collazo, who battles Bryant Perrella in welterweight action, who were both in attendance at Thursday’s press conference.

Competing in undercard action and participating in Thursday’s press conference in her hometown was WBA Super Middleweight Women’s World Champion Alicia Napoleon, who defends her title against Scotland’s Hannah Rankin.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from The JetBlue Overlook at NYCB Live, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum:

ANDRE BERTO

“A lot of these people on this card have been guys I’ve been around since they were coming up. I’ve been in the game for a while and I’ve been cracking heads for a while.

“We had a tremendous training camp for this fight. I took time to rejuvenate myself and I’ve come back and gotten myself into great shape. I appreciate what Devon Alexander has been through, but he’s dealing with a different animal on Saturday night.

“I’ve pushed hard to give myself the best chance to win on Saturday. We’ve prepared for everything that we think Devon can bring. I’m physically and mentally prepared for a battle.

“I’m going to push Devon. I don’t think he’s fought any that brings what I do since he came back from his layoff. We’re going to see if he’s back. If he’s not ready, then I’m going to make it a long night for him.

“It’s all business on Saturday night. I’m really looking forward to it. It’s going to be dynamite. It’s going to be a good time.”

DEVON ALEXANDER

“I’m thankful that I can continue to fight, build my legacy and do something I love. I’m grateful to be here and show off my talent. I’m still writing my legacy and Berto is just another stepping stone in my way. I have to get past him.

“We had a great training camp down in Florida. Coach Cunningham has prepared me as well as for any fight in my career. The focus and dedication we put into camp will all show in the ring on fight night.

“Andre Berto was a great champion and I definitely respect what he’s done in this sport. Both of us need this win badly though and I’m sure neither of us will look to take a step back on our way to a victory.

“I love being in New York. I always get a lot of love from the fans, and they’re definitely a passionate group of fans. I’m going to be ready for the bright lights on Saturday.

“I have to thank Berto for accepting the challenge. We go way back to the amateur days. I’m up for the challenge. Everyone knows I will fight anybody. It’s going to be a great fight. There’s going to be fireworks.”

PETER QUILLIN

“I am more than ready for this fight. I have a lot of history with J’Leon Love. I’m going to be ready for him and it’s going to be a fight the fans won’t want to miss.

“I’m very blessed to be back in this position. Coach Sosa has really been a great gift for me. He’s helped me mentally and physically build on everything I had done with Virgil Hunter in the two years prior.

“Being back in New York definitely helps make me feel like I’ve made it back. I can be back in front of my fans, and most importantly my family, so that I can feel their support and let it carry me in the ring.

“We’ve worked on everything in camp and we’re ready to put on a show Saturday. I’m ready to show everyone that I still have what it takes to compete for a world title. This is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time now.

JLEON LOVE

“I appreciate people coming out. I love coming to New York. This is a great card with so many great fighters and I’m grateful for the opportunity.

“I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. Come August 4, you will see me display my talent. I have nothing but respect for Peter Quillin, but this is why they call it the crossroads. We have to run into each other.

“I’m not worried about anything Peter has done in past fights. I’m prepared for the best Peter Quillin we’ve seen. He’s not going to catch me by surprise in there.

“I just have to be smart, listen to my corner and impose my game plan. I know that I have the skills to win and win convincingly. If I follow the game plan, I’m going to show everyone I’m ready for the best in the division.

“I’m excited to be back in New York. I’m planning on riding the energy from the crowd, whether it’s rooting against me or with me, and giving everyone something to remember.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“It’s been a while but I’m thankful to be back. I’m super ready to go in there on Saturday night and put on a show for you guys. I’m going to do what I do best, and keep my name in title contention.

“I know that my opponent is skilled and he’s going to be ready to try to upset me. But I’ve worked too hard in camp to let anyone walk into my home and beat me. It’s just not happening.

“I’ve made sure to just stay patient and know that my time is coming. I’m going to keep adding to my resume until there’s no one who can deny my shot.

“I’m trying to get this done impressively, but I’ll take the win however I can get it. At this point it’s about continuing to win so that I can keep myself at the top of the rankings. I want a world title shot and I’m ready for it.”

LUIS COLLAZO

“It’s great to be here. I want to give thanks for everyone who has helped me in the last 18 months while I recovered from my injury. It was hard, but it was a process I had to go to.

“My team has supported me through thick and thin no matter what I’ve been through. That included my dad, who originally brought me into the gym when I was a kid. This is just what I love to do.

“My opponent is young and desperate to put a name on his record. He’s got some skills that we’ve prepared for. I’m confident he doesn’t have anything I haven’t seen before.

“I’m ready to go to work on August 4. I’m going to give the fans a great fight and another night to remember with me in the ring.”

ALICIA NAPOLEON

“This is a big card with a lot of action and I’m proud to be on it. Hannah is a wonderful champion and this is going to be a great fight. This is a tremendous opportunity and we’re going to continue to push for better and better opportunities for female fighters.

“This is a fight you won’t want to miss. I’ve had a great camp and I’m prepared for another war. I won this title at Barclays Center in March and I can’t wait to see everyone out cheering for us on Saturday.

“It’s an honor to be fighting at home. I really take it to heart that there are young female fighters out there who watch me for inspiration. It helps motivate me and I believe it’s going to help me defend my title successfully on Saturday.”

HANNAH RANKIN

“It’s fantastic to be on such a great card. I’ve been looking for a big fight like this and it couldn’t have come at a better time for me.

“When I got the call for this fight I was obviously going to say yes. Camp has been amazing and I can’t wait to go in there on Saturday night and show everyone what I’m capable of.

“This is a worthy opponent and I’m glad that she accepted the challenge. I’ve come too far to leave New York without the championship belt.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“This should be a sensational show on Saturday, live on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET. There is also a terrific show that actually begins on FS2 and FOX Deportes at 5:30 p.m. ET. This is a loaded card from top to bottom, as you can see from the dais here. It features a number of the best fighters in the world.

“The main event features two men in Andre Berto and Devon Alexander who are both multiple time world champions, well known fighters and fighters who need this win. The recipe for a great fight is two terrific boxers who must win.

“The co-featured event is a similar bout. Peter Quillin and J’Leon Love are guys who are in the championship picture at 168-pounds. The reality is the winner of this fight will have a chance to fight for the title soon.

“There’s a women’s title fight on this card that features Long Island’s only boxing world champion, in Alicia Napoleon. She’s a popular local fighter who is going to make the first defense of her title on Saturday. She will fight the pride of Scotland, in Hannah Rankin, in what should be a great bout. These are two champions of the sport and we’re honored to have them in the ring Saturday.”

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Peter Quillin & Alicia Napoleon Visit Crestwood Day Camp in Long Island Ahead of Matchups this Saturday, August 4 from NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum

LONG ISLAND, NY (August 1, 2018) – Former middleweight champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin and WBA Super Middleweight Women’s World Champion Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon visited Crestwood Day Camp Wednesday afternoon and hosted a motivational and fitness training session with over 200 campers.

Quillin and the Lindenhurst-native Napoleon took advantage of the opportunity to share positive messages with the campers ahead of their respective matchups taking place this Saturday, August 4 from NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

“Being a boxer is my lifestyle, and to be able to share some of the things that made me who I am with these kids is a great joy,” said Quillin. “It’s so important to reach out to the next generation and give them the tools to live positively. As a pro athlete I consider that part of my job and something I take pride in doing.”

“I’m so happy to be here and give something back for these children,” said Napoleon. “Sharing different tips and motivations while I’m here is really an honor. I’m focused on defending my title Saturday night, but something like this is really a treat. I hope they all had fun and learned something they didn’t know before today.”

The fighters spoke to the larger group of campers and showed them some training techniques before running a half hour fitness session for about 25 seven and eight-year-olds to round out the afternoon.

Quillin faces J’Leon Love in PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes action that begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT and is headlined by a showdown between former welterweight world champions Andre Berto and Devon Alexander.

Napoleon highlights the non-televised undercard in her hometown as she makes the first defense of her world title against Scotland’s Hannah Rankin.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Andre Berto vs. Devon Alexander & Peter Quillin vs. J’Leon Love Media Conference Call Transcript

Lou DiBella
Thanks everybody for joining us. This is a terrific PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes card live at 7:30 pm ET/4:30 pm PT. Preceding it on FS2 and FOX Deportes at 5:30 pm ET/2:30 pm PT, there’ll be a show that features Marcus Browne versus Lenin Castillo and Brooklyn’s Luis Collazo versus Bryant Perrella, in what will be a good lead in to our two main event fights.

Tickets for the live event, which is co-promoted with TGB Promotions, are on sale now. They can be purchased online ticketmaster.com, nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000, and also the Ticketmaster box office at NYCB Live. And for those who don’t know, NYBC Live is what we used to call the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York.

This is really a very meaningful fight card because pretty much every fighter on this card understands that they’re in a must-win situation. In Andre Berto and Devon Alexander you have two, two-time former world champions, both of whom want to fight under the biggest lights in the biggest fights possible and they must win in this battle against each other in the welterweight division.

Andre Berto I’m very acquainted with. I promoted him coming out of 2004 Olympics. He’s had a terrific career and he’s looking to continue that career on the highest levels, and he is certainly going to have his hands full with Devon Alexander on August 4th. Andre and Devon, want to say a couple words?

Andre Berto
It’s going to be a tremendous fight card. I’m looking forward to it. We’ve had a tremendous training camp and I know the other side is ready and like I said I’m excited and look forward to it.

Devon Alexander
For me I’m just trying to get back in the ring. I’m excited to show people why I’m still one of the top, elite welterweights in the world. I want to prove to people that I’m still in my prime and every fight is meaningful in my career at this point. So I just want to thank everybody who made this possible. I want to thank Lou and TGB and New York for hosting this fight, and I’m just excited, excited to be against Berto and I’m excited to see what he’s got. I’m preparing for a lot of Berto so training camp was tremendous and I’m just ready.

L. DiBella
We also have on the line trainer extraordinaire, Kevin Cunningham, trainer of Devon Alexander, one of the best trainers, best guys in this business. So if anyone has questions for Kevin you can also throw those out, but I’m going to open it up for questions to Andre Berto and Devon Alexander. So moderator we can go to the queue.

Q
Andre, what is your motivation these days to keep going?

A. Berto
Everything is motivation nowadays is to, finish off the way we want to finish off. The fight with Porter, Devon knows as well, he’s an MMA fighter and he does a lot of rough things and rough tactics. And for me that’s not the way I really wanted to try to finish things off towards the end of my career, and that’s the situation.

I’ve had a tremendous career and for me I believe that I’m in the right head space now just to finish this thing off the way we want to finish it off and that’s strong.

Q
What would then be the ideal way to finish it off?

A. Berto
I’m just 34 years old and we’re still young, we’re still vibrant. We still have all our marbles, still have all our money, and we just want to really try to start and try to make it the new trend to try to step away from this game early and with all our marbles. But of course we want to try to make sure just to put everything into this game towards the end and that’s where I am right now.

I had a nice bit of time off to really heal and really just get in a new type of vibrant mode for this upcoming camp and it’s definitely showed in boot camp. And so I’m looking forward to showing all the skills fight night.

Q
Where do you believe a win would lead to?

A.Berto
I believe in myself and Devon. We’re at a place that our names are heavy enough in the game that it could lead us directly to a title shot. This is an important fight. I’ve known Devon for a long time, since the amateurs, I’ve known Kevin since the amateurs, and Devon’s brother too.

I’ve got much respect for those guys. I haven’t really got too much of the trash talking and crazy stuff to say, but I know they’re going to come prepared because on this side we’re definitely prepared. So I believe it’s just going to be a tremendous fight.

Q
Devon, do you think that most people look at your last fight and even though they may see a draw they say that you won the fight?

D. Alexander
I think so. Soon after the fight I think everybody know that I won convincingly. I was going out there to dominate completely. He had a lot of fans down there and I’m not making no excuse but I thought I wo, but, that’s part of the game. I’m glad a lot of people saw it as a win and they got to make their own conclusion from the fight. So I was happy about that. But I’m just glad everybody got a chance to see it.

Q
Are you of that same opinion that even though it’s not an official eliminator it could potentially lead you to another title shot?

D. Alexander
Absolutely, absolutely. Me and my coach never shy away from any challenge, any opponent, anybody, my whole career. So this fight can catapult us to a world title shot and that’s my goal. That’s my goal. That’s what I mean by comeback. That was my goal to get a world title and that’s what I’m focusing on. I’m hungry. I just turned 31. I’m hungry and I feel refreshed, I feel vibrant, and I just want to show people that I’m still one of the elite welterweights in the division. I’m still right here. I’m still the same guy that people saw four or five years ago. So this fight, this win will, and it should, put me in a title fight soon.

Q
Devon, how confident are you going into this fight and how do you assess the threat level of Andre Berto at this stage in his career?

D. Alexander
Well the threat level from Berto is I’m go into this fight like he was 25 years old. This is the elite level. So I’ll be prepared for whatever he brings, whatever he’s going to be doing in there. So I’m preparing for a 25-year-old Berto. I’m preparing for a big bad Berto and that’s where my mind’s at. I’m not taking this fight lightly. I’m not taking nothing away from Berto. This is going to be an awesome, extremely good fight and that’s what I’m preparing for.

Q
Errol Spence in particular has been very avoided at 147, or at least that’s the perception. Would you take a fight with him going forward?

D. Alexander
Oh absolutely, absolutely. It just depends on what my coach and my team want for me. I’d love to get in there with Errol Spence. I’d love to get in there with Keith Thurman. It depends who’s available at that particular time. A lot of people they like to pick the easiest opponent nowadays so we’ll just have to see when we cross that road. What I’m focusing on is Andre Berto and getting the job done August 4.

Q
For Kevin Cunningham, I’d like to ask you the same question I asked Devon upfront. How do you rate Andre Berto at this stage in his career?

Kevin Cunningham
It’s a serious threat. Any time that you are an Olympian, any time that you are multiple time world champion, the threat is real. He’s still got speed, he’s always got power, and he’s got a huge heart. So he’s a serious threat. Anybody that takes him as a joke obviously doesn’t know boxing and doesn’t know to evaluate fighters.

This fight is going to be a fan-friendly fight because there haven’t been too many fights where Devon or Andre Berto has been in where you would call it boring. Everybody has one or two here and there if they had illustrious careers like both of these guys, but for the most part, both of them have had fan-friendly fights and I think this one’s going to be great. They’re two of the biggest names in the welterweight division and I think it was great for this fight to be put on network television because people like watching names that they’re familiar with.

Q
Andre can you assess Devon’s threat level at this point in his career?

A. Berto
Of course my confidence is high but at the same time, when you got a guy that’s a two-time world champion and he has high level amateur experience under his belt, you have to bring your best. He had the draw with Victor Ortiz but I believe he got the win there.

Victor Ortiz is the type of guy that either he’s going to be alive one night or another night he’ll fall apart. You just never know which one that’ll you’ll get. He’s a former world champion as well. I just know that in situations like this, it’s the fight game so anything can happen that night.

It just bugs me out at times how people will downplay another fighter just because of their last performance and not knowing what they’ve achieved and just really just kind of discard their skills. Devon Alexander, he’s highly skilled and he took some time off. I know about his situation. I know about that whole situation that happened. But he’s here and he’s a very good fighter and he’s at a point in his life that I believe he took a lot of flak, because of the Ortiz fight. So I think think he took that energy into this camp. And that’s all I’m looking for.

Same thing with when I fought Victor Ortiz the first time. I overlooked him and he beat me. But when I went into the second fight, I didn’t care how he looked, the fight before or two fights before, I came in there to handle business. I came there as a dog for whichever Victor Ortiz showed up, and that’s the same situation here.

I believe that Devon Alexander is going to be at his best. I know Kevin Cunningham. He’s a great coach as well and he’s a different type of coach. He’s going to drill that stuff in your head, and he’s going to let him know that this is a do-or-die opportunity for him and he’s going to voice it a lot and he’s going to let you understand. So it’s going to be up to Devon if he’s going to rise up to the occasion, and the same thing on my end. We had a great camp and I’m ready to do what I got to do. I need to come out with a win.

Q
Devon, how do you expect the long layoff to affect Andre in this fight?

D. Alexander
We’ve been doing this our whole lives so it affects everybody different. Everybody’s body is different and I can’t say how it’s going to affect him. But for me, it took me a couple rounds to get my legs under me. I was like okay I’m feeling decent and after the fourth or fifth round I was like this is a breeze, and I struck something good and I felt like I was there. So everybody’s different and I know for me it only took me a short time to snap back into my groove and get the job done.

Q
Andre, how do you expect to feel in the ring that night after being off for 15, 16 months?

A. Berto
I think I’m going to feel great because I’ve had a tremendous training camp. When you get to this point in your career, we’re not 22, 23 anymore, so I believe that rest is key. I believe that at times recovery is key because the knowledge isn’t going anywhere. It’s almost like muscle memory getting back in there, and we’ve been doing it for so long.

But the rest and the recovery is key and I believe I just came back into camp just vibrant and just felt great. It showed all training camp and I’ve had an extensive training camp and I’ve had a lot of great small fighters to spar. I even brought in a few of these Olympic guys to come in and work as well. I feel sharp, fast and strong.

Q
Andre, after you lost to Porter, how close did you come to retiring? How much of that enter you mind and how did you wrestle with that?

A. Berto
I mean with the Porter fight it was just a lot. There was just a lot going on. It was my first time realistically being in a fight and taking that type of damage when it comes to headbutts. He didn’t punch hard at all. He didn’t really hurt me on any punches.

I was just so confused at the time on how many headbutts I was taking and the referee just wasn’t saying nothing about it, and Virgil was just trying to keep me calm because he knows me. He knows I was going to go right back with some other type of foul, but he just tried to keep me, on task.

I just really just wanted to take some time off after that because I took some hard butts and that was the first time in all my fights, to be realistic, even though I had a few tough scraps, that was the first time I had a concussion. I just really just wanted to take some time off and really heal up nice like I needed to and spend time with the family.

So I just really didn’t really dwell on it too long. I think everybody got a chance to see and I believe everybody put Shawn Porter in the place as well where they don’t want to fight him neither. That’s why it took him so long to had to get a fight now as well. After coming off a win nobody wanted to fight that guy, man. Nobody want to deal with that type of mess.

L. DiBella
We’re going to move on to the co-featured bout. And I before I introduce the combatants in the co-featured bout, I just want to point out there are some terrific world-class fighters fighting on the undercard on the show. Sergey Lipinets will be on the card opening up the FOX and FOX Deportes telecast, plus Richard Commey will be on the card, and Alicia Napoleon will be defending her WBA Middleweight title against Hannah Rankin in a very significant female fight.

The co-feature, much like the main event, features two well-known fighters that need to win, that are on the comeback trails, that are looking for a shot at a world title, and this is a critical crossroads fight for both of these gentlemen. I promoted a number of fights for both of these fighters. I go back with Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin since he was a kid. I promoted J’Leon Love before my friends at Mayweather Promotions, who now promote him.

They’re two guys I like a lot and also two fighters that know what’s at stake, and I know you’re going to see the best out of both Peter Quillin and J’Leon Love on August 4 at Nassau Coliseum, or what’s now known as NYCB Live. First Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin. Pete and J’Leon, can you say a few words?

Peter Quillin
Yes. I want to thank you, Lou, for having me on this card. When I went pro, I turned pro with Lou on his first card at Broadway Boxing, and it’s such a pleasure to be on this card again in front of my hometown fans. I’m hoping I’m going to be blessed that everybody come out and see Kid Chocolate get on the road back to the top.

J’Leon Love
Hey, what’s going on, Lou? Hello. Hello to everybody. Yes, listen, it’s a blessing to be back on the stage again with Berto, Devon Alexander, Peter Quillin, Commey and Lipinets, all of those guys on the card. It’s a blessing to be on this great card as the co-feature. Shout out to Lou. We’ve always had a good relationship. He’s done very well with me early in parts of my career. There’s nothing but respect for everybody on here.

Q
Do you feel more comfortable fighting at 168 since you don’t have to cut as much weight as you did at Middleweight?

P. Quillin
Of course, yes. I thought maybe I should have went up in weight a long time ago but timing tells everything and timing heals everything, so I guess we went 168 at this time it’s probably the best time for me to do it. I think J’Leon is the perfect guy for me to mix it up with. He’s been at 168 for a while and if I want to mix it up with those big guys I have to be able to get through him.

Q
How does it feel to be fighting and not just back in New York but also fighting in a marquee matchup on FOX?

P. Quillin
Man, it’s a special privilege to be on primetime on FOX as well as being in front of my hometown fans here in New York. It’s going to be my first time being here at the Nassau Coliseum and I can’t wait. This is where I built my name. I’m just excited to be back. The level of intensity for this fight is right there. So I just got to put my best foot forward.

Q
J’Leon, what would a win over Peter Quillin mean for you?

J. Love
Peter Quillin is a former world champion at 160. He’s done a great job when he was there. He took some time off but he’s back and so we’re looking at him as the same world champion Peter Quillin. So a win over him will definitely set me up and is exactly what I need to challenge for a title.

Q
Do you feel that there’s more pressure to win this fight or are you approaching this as you would any other fight with the same mentality and same preparation?

J. Love
I’m definitely not approaching it as just the same. This is it. This is my chance to make it happen for myself and I’m fighting with one of the elites out there. So at the end of the day this is definitely my time to shine and I’ll definitely do what I need to do to be at the top of the game and challenge for one of these titles. So I can’t look at it as this is just a regular fight or a regular person I’m trying to get in there with.

Q
Peter, I was just wondering where you see yourself now at 168. Do you see yourself in the top three? Do you see yourself as having to do more to establish yourself and would you be ready for a title shot if given the opportunity after this fight?

P. Quillin
Yes, I will be ready for a title shot after this fight. If that is what is meant for me, yes I’ll be ready. Being at 160 was very hard to make the weight. I feel very comfortable at 168. I feel like this is my place, and I’m always trying to establish myself. We can never say we’re ready for something, I just got to be well prepared. So that’s how my vision is.

Of course down the line maybe in the future maybe me and Danny Jacobs having a rematch but it cannot be at 160 pounds. I want to campaign at 168 and I’m going to see how I feel at this weight. I’m going to close with progress. I’ve been out of the ring for such a long time. I was in California training with Virgil Hunter.

I made the decision to come back home to be closer to my family, my wife and my kids, and now I’m here and I’m training under the watchful eye of Aureliano Sosa, who is working with like guys like Chris Colbert, he has a lot of passion and he’s very dedicated. So I feel very motivated, feel positive and I feel like I’m ready to go.

Q
Are you wanting to be more active or is this partly factors outside of your control that have led these gaps?

P. Quillin
Well a lot of these things happen, you would figure like the business, the boxing would have kept it out but it wasn’t the business or boxing, it was a lot of personal issues with my family but also who I would decide to train with, and then when I decide to train with Virgil it was his scheduling. He had a very busy schedule working with other fighters.

Me and J’Leon, we’ve been training since January for this fight. Some mishaps came about and, I didn’t want to keep letting this type of fight be on the stove and getting too hot and then eventually burn out. So I made like a decision to come back home, find somebody comfortable close to home for me to be able to train with and look to put my best foot forward.

We’ll see how Kid Chocolate look. I’ve been looking phenomenal in the gym but, I think the fight is always different from the gym. So I’m looking to go ahead and showcase my talent and you can guys can decide how well I do and we can take it from there.

Q
J’Leon, from my perspective this is by far your biggest fight thus far. How do rate the stakes of this?

J. Love
I only have one loss. It’s not like the end of the road. Even with Peter Quillin like it’s one loss to a really good elite fighter. I mean that’s it. So it’s definitely not the end of the road, just what you guys make it to be. But at the end of the day, there’s definitely pressure on anybody to win any fight, whether it’s a mediocre fight or a big fight, it doesn’t matter.

You want to put your best foot forward and come out with the win and keep moving from there. I’m going to come out and be the best J’Leon Love I’m going to be. I’m well prepared. I’ve been wanting to fight Peter for a long time. And nothing against Peter, he’s a former title holder. I was chasing the title so nothing against him, I just want to be champion.

I’ve been wanting this fight. So I’ve been busting my ass for a long time and I’m sure he has too. I don’t look at it as there’s too much pressure. I don’t take it as pressure. I’m just going to go out there, do what I need to do in this gym, do what I need to do on the road and continue to grind and whatever God has planned for me, that’s where it’s going to be. So at the end of the day, I don’t put no pressure on myself to go out there deliver like I’m supposed to.

Q
Do you think you’ll have any relative size advantage between both of you if you think you’re both about the same size?

J. Love
Yes. I’ve been at 168 for a while. At 160, it was a little bit of a struggle. As I got older and stronger and moved more, it became more hard to make 160. So yes it was the best thing for me to move up to 168. I make it there and there’s no struggle me for, but I’m strong, I feel good, and I’m doing it the healthy way.

I don’t think it’s an advantage. Everybody isn’t walking around like okay Peter Quillin is fighting other 168 but it’s not like he’s walking around at 154 fighting at 68, he’s coming down to 168. So he’s a grown man. I don’t think it’s an advantage at all. I think Peter Quillin’s going to be the best Peter Quillin he can be and I’m going to be the best J’Leon Love I can be.

So this is going to be a really good fight. I can’t wait. I know Peter can’t wait. This has been a long time coming. These camps on top of camps, it’s going to be a good fight. No advantage for anybody I think. I can’t wait to fight him. And New York is not my first time so I’m looking forward to this whole thing.

Q
J’Leon do you consider this fight a must-win?

J. Love
Sure. If anybody wants a title shot and to win a belt or even be a contender to go for a belt, you better win. That’s it. This is it. You’d better win. You got to go out there, put it all on the line and win. Period. That’s what it takes. We’re fighters, we’re gladiators. We’re elite. This is what it is right here.

Go out there show that you want a title, it’s the difference between a prospect and a contender. Go out there and bust your ass in front of everybody and do what you’re supposed to do. like to look at it that way.

There’s no pressure for me because I know what I want. I’ve been ready for this. So at the end of the day, here’s my chance to go out there and do it. You never get a free chance in this game. It ain’t like basketball, where you can lose and it’s a team loss and hey don’t worry you got a chance to still make it to the playoffs or the championship. No.

If you lose too many times, it’s over with. People don’t look at you like that anymore. People think you’re a has been or he’s old, he’s done, this, that and the other, and it’s over. That’s what boxing is. So go out there and dominate. Do what you’re supposed to: win. Period.

Q
How difficult is it at this point in your career to transition from being in training to balancing the family life?

P. Quillin
The motivation has definitely changed. I’m 35. I’ve gotten to witness what old age can feel like, but I’m very fortunate to say I haven’t partied a lot in my career. I’ve been in the gym a lot, many years of my life. Being around my family I think the hardest thing was letting another man tell me how to sacrifice for my family.

So I was like on the road all the time. I was traveling and I miss some very special moments with my kids growing up. I feel like a FaceTime dad at the time and for the most part a lot of special fighters reached out to me when I was making the decision to be closer to my family, I was asking for advice as far as how many fighters train at home with their family, and what I found out is a lot of fighters train at home with their family.

Early in my career I basically sacrificed going to camp and being away, being secluded, not around people but now I don’t need that because I don’t have problems with partying. It’s a schedule. And my family kind of work around my schedule. My kids they eat around their dad.

We all pretty much eat healthy outside of when I’m getting ready for a camp so it is much easier when I have a whole family who don’t eat like fast foods and they kind of understand what I do. My kids know that I’m a boxer. My son definitely knows. He comes to the gym once a week with me just kicking it with me and just to experience what Dad do for a living.

My wife has been probably one of the biggest supporters I have. She’s got a full time job and she basically makes herself available for whatever I need her for. I got all the real support system that at the end of the day if anything ever happened in a boxing match, I usually come back home to my family anyway and they accept me in my condition.

My biggest thing was learning what kind of leader I’m trying to be for my household. Everybody pretty much follows my lead in my household, my wife and my kids. I just want to do stuff out of the goodness of my family and most importantly out of sense of God, being righteous to what God is doing with my family and staying obedient to His plan.

L. DiBella
I just again want to point out this great card. August 4, NYCB Live, home of the Nassau Coliseum on Uniondale Long Island. PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes fights begin at 7:30 pm ET/4:30 pm PT, FS2 and FOX Deportes at 5:30 pm ET/2:30 pm PT with Marcus Browne against Lenin Castillo, and Luis Collazo versus Bryant Perrella. Tickets can be purchases ticketmaster.com, nycblive.com, at the Ticketmaster box office at NYCB Live or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

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Peter Quillin, Luis Collazo & Alicia Napoleon Media Luncheon Quotes

NEW YORK (July 19, 2018) – Former world champions Peter Quillin and Luis Collazo were joined by WBA Women’s Super Middleweight Champion Alicia Napoleon at a media luncheon in Manhattan Thursday to discuss their respective showdowns taking place Saturday, August 4 from NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Quillin will take on J’Leon Love in a super middleweight attraction in primetime as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes action beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT. The primetime action is headlined by a showdown between former welterweight world champions Andre Berto and Devon Alexander.

Collazo collides with Bryant Perrella in a welterweight attraction on FS2 and FOX Deportes beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT on a telecast that also features unbeaten light heavyweight Marcus Browne facing Lenin Castillo.

The undercard will be highlighted by Long Island-native and WBA Super Middleweight World Champion Napoleonmaking the first defense of her title against Hannah Rankin.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from The Palm West Side in Manhattan:

PETER QUILLIN

“August 4 is a big day. It’s been a long time since I fought in New York and I’m ready to showcase my talents here once again.

“I’ve been away from my family for the last two years training in California with Virgil Hunter. Basically I made the decision to come back home and be closer to my family. Now being home, I’m learning how to adjust my methods and my camp around my family.

“I think this is a new chapter in my life. J’Leon Love is trying to showcase and do something memorable against me. He’s trying to get a name on his record because he desperately needs one.

“We can make it a dog fight. I wouldn’t say that J’Leon likes to be in a dog fight, he’s more of a classical boxer. He likes to be on his legs, he likes to pop the jab out and he likes to move around the ring. So let’s see who comes and brings their better stuff that night. I want to make it a dog fight.

“Love definitely wanted this fight, but it’s a perfect fight for me. I hope that he brings his very best because I’m definitely going to bring that on my behalf.

“I’m just planning to go out there and be ‘Kid Chocolate’. I’ve got some good people around me. I’m training in Brooklyn with Aureliano Sosa, who has been pushing me to the max. August 4 for me is really about J’Leon being delivered into my hands and giving the fans a good showcase.”

LUIS COLLAZO

“Finally, it’s been so long. I’m grateful for this opportunity. I know that I need to make the most of each opportunity I get at this point, and I feel like I’ve definitely done that in all my recent fights. August 4 will be another night for me to show how much I still have left.

“It’s amazing to be able to perform at this venue with me being from New York. The people, the atmosphere, the fans and how they react to the fights, it’s phenomenal. Now it’s my turn to give it back to my boxing fans and entertain them.

“I feel 100 percent physically and am geared to be that way on fight night. I know that I have a tough, young opponent who needs this win as badly as I do. I’m going to show him what this sport is all about.

“I just want that win, if the knockout comes we’ll take it. But the main thing is going out there get the win and looking good while I’m doing it.”

ALICIA NAPOLEON

“I’m expecting a good fight. I know that Hannah Rankin is credible fighter and she’s a tough girl with a WBC Silver belt. I have the WBA World Title and I know she’s coming to take it. She’s a standup opponent, and I’m sure she’s going to be ready to give it her all that night just like I will.

“I’m a Long Island girl born and raised, so there’s nobody better to make history that night than myself. I’m ready to be the first female to fight in that arena. It’s such a beautiful feeling, I’m so excited that it’s me who is getting this opportunity, with so much to follow.

“The future is female. That doesn’t mean that were taking anything away from the males, it just means that it’s time for them to share the stage. We have a lot to offer, and we have a whole different audience and crowd to bring to boxing.

“It’s awesome to see women fighters starting to climb the ladder and I want to see more of us. It’s not about that one female fighter, it’s about the multitude of us. There is power in numbers, and we need to be shown. You’ll be surprised how quickly the crowd will just attract to the women, and we’ll automatically be bringing a bigger base than they ever brought before.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“Peter Quillin knows what’s at stake August 4 and so does J’Leon Love. It’s a must-win fight for both guys, which usually equals a fun fight for the fans.

“This card has so much talent. You have Marcus Browne back in the ring and Luis Collazo back against a good opponent. Plus, Alicia Napoleon “The Empress”, the Long Island Female World Champion is in there with a really good fighter in Hannah Rankin. She’s the biggest fighter in Scotland. That’s a real quality women’s fight between two recognizable women fighters.

“It’s a stacked card with solid fights from top to bottom. It should be a really good night of boxing on television, and a great night of fights for Long Island.”

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Former Welterweight World Champions Andre Berto & Devon Alexander Square Off Live in Prime Time on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, August 4 in a Premier Boxing Champions Event from NYCB LIVE, Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and Former World Champion Peter Quillin Takes on 168-Pound Contender J’Leon Love Also in Prime Time

LONG ISLAND, NY (July 5, 2018) – Former 147-pound world champions Andre Berto (31-5, 24 KOs)and Devon Alexander (27-4-1, 14 KOs)will battle in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked night of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes live in prime time on Saturday, August 4 from NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The telecast begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT with former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (33-1-1, 23 KOs)facing 168-pound contender J’Leon Love (24-1-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round bout. Also in action will be former amateur standout and fast-rising unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer (3-0, 3 KOs) in a super welterweight match.

The exciting night of fights begins with a special edition of PBC on FS2 & FOX Deportes at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne (21-0, 16 KOs) taking on once-beaten Lenin Castillo (18-1-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round match. The FS2 & FOX Deportes telecast will begin with a welterweight showdown between former world champion Luis Collazo (37-7, 20 KOs) against Bryant Perrella (15-1, 13 KOs).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, go on sale Friday, July 6 at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE beginning Saturday, July 7 at noon. Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.

“This is an outstanding card from top to bottom with matches that figure prominently in the 147-pound, 168-pound and 175-pound divisions,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Berto and Alexander are two former champions who are fighting to get back into the crowded welterweight title picture. The Peter Quillin and J’Leon Love winner factors heavily in the super middleweight championship mix. It’s compelling action for the fans at Nassau Coliseum and the ones tuned in to FOX in prime time.”

“I’m happy to bring another action-packed event back to NYCB Live on Long Island,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Headlining the FOX and FOX Deportes telecast, former world champions Andre Berto and Devon Alexander meet in a high-stakes crossroads battle with the winner emerging one step closer to another shot at the welterweight crown. Former middleweight champion Peter Quillin continues his comeback facing the talented J’Leon Love and Staten Island’s unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne also appears on the card. Long Island boxing fans will want to arrive early for a tremendous undercard, with local talent as well.”

An exciting and accomplished fighter from Florida, Berto returns to the ring after dropping a contest last April to Shawn Porter. Berto represented Haiti in the 2004 Olympics and picked up his biggest recent triumph on FOX in April 2016 as Berto scored a fourth-round knockout of former champion Victor Ortiz in their high-octane rematch.

Berto previously challenged retired legend Floyd Mayweather in September 2015 and has engaged in numerous Fight of the Year-worthy bouts, including a 2012 war with Robert Guerrero and his first fight with Ortiz. He has twice held a welterweight title, first the WBC belt, which he successfully defended five times between 2008 and 2011, plus the IBF crown he picked up in 2011 with a victory over Jan Zaveck.

“This is a great fight that has been a long time coming,” said Berto. “We share some common opponents, but we have different styles of fighting and styles make fights. I’ve had a lot of success with southpaws. I’m looking forward to seeing him in front of me and capitalizing on what I’m working on now.”

Alexander returned to the spotlight in February after only fighting once since 2015 while he sought treatment for an addiction to painkillers. He looked sharp in his first big fight in years, displaying similar speed and skills that had made him a two-weight champion before being given a controversial draw against former champion Victor Ortiz on FOX, in a fight most thought Alexander had won.

The 31-year-old emerged onto the scene with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey to add the welterweight crown to the 140-pound title he had won three years prior. Originally from St. Louis, but now training in Florida with longtime coach Kevin Cunningham, Alexander has defeated the likes of Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse and Jesus Soto Karass throughout his accomplished career.

“I’m very excited about this fight. Berto and I have history going back to the amateurs,” Alexander said. “I know him very well, but we’ve never fought. I have to show that I’m still one of the best in a stacked division. This is all business for me, because at this point in my career, I’m approaching every fight as if it’s my last. This is prime time for me.

“My mentality is that Berto is still the killer that he was 10 years ago. So I’m looking at him like he’s lost nothing. I’ve got one mission, and that’s to beat Berto. I’ll be technically sound and 100 percent focused on accomplishing that task.”

A Brooklyn-resident who has made the borough home for his whole career, Quillin returned to the ring last September when he defeated Dashon Johnson by unanimous decision. The former middleweight champion made three title defenses after winning his title from Hassan N’Dam in Brooklyn and his only loss came at the hands of former champion Daniel Jacobs.

“I’m excited to be back at home in New York in front of my fans and people I love so dearly,” Quillin said. “I’m coming back more polished and more seasoned and a man of God. I’ve definitely always been a guy who steps out and does what people think I can’t do. I know J’Leon is looking to make a splash. He needs a name on his resume. I have to do everything in my power to make sure that doesn’t happen. Either he’s going to have to learn a hard lesson or give me a hard lesson.”

The 30-year-old Love enters this fight unbeaten in his last seven contests after most recently defeating Jaime Barboza in May. The Michigan-native who now trains and lives in Las Vegas had previously defeated a slew of contenders and will look to move closer to a world title shot with a victory over Quillin on August 4.

“I think this is a really good matchup,” said Love. “Peter Quillin is a very talented fighter and a former world champion who is always in great shape. He’s someone you have to train very hard for and that you definitely cannot take lightly. I’m just grateful for the opportunity to fight a spectacular fighter like him. We’ll put on a great fight.”

Browne has put together three-straight impressive knockout victories to continue his rapid rise up the highly competitive 175-pound division. The 27-year-old southpaw has sandwiched knockouts of Thomas Williams, Jr. last February and Francy Ntetu this January around a second-round destruction of then unbeaten Seanie Monaghan in the inaugural boxing event at Nassau Coliseum on a FOX primetime telecast last July. The 2012 U.S. Olympian will look to put himself in position for a world title fight with a convincing win on August 4.

“I feel good about fighting close to home in New York,” said Browne. “Lenin Castillo is definitely a good, hungry, up-and-coming fighter who has one loss to Joseph Williams. I’m not overlooking him, but right now I’m trying to keep my top position in order to vie for a title, so I have to destroy him.”

The 29-year-old Castillo fights out of his native Dominican Republic and enters this bout with three straight victories by stoppage. Castillo’s recent wins followed his first professional loss, a majority decision defeat to unbeaten Joseph Williams last February. Castillo has fought professionally since 2010 and was unbeaten in his first 12 fights. The only other blemish on his pro resume was a majority draw in Brooklyn against then unbeaten Travis Peterkin in 2015.

“Marcus Browne is a boxer I’ve been following a long time because we were both Olympians,” said Castillo. “This is a good style matchup that I think will make a fun fight for the fans. We’re looking for the victory. Both of us know that a win here can take us to a world title shot and I’m not planning on wasting my opportunity.”

Collazo is a former world champion hailing from Brooklyn who has fought top welterweights from Berto and Shane Mosley to Keith Thurman and Ricky Hatton. His most recent fight saw him score a sensational knockout victory over Sammy Vasquez in February 2017. He returns to the ring after recovering from injuries sustained during training and will face Perrella of Fort Myers, FL. The 29-year-old defeated Alex Martin in his home state in December via a unanimous decision in his last outing.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FOXTV, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @LouDiBella, @NYCBLive and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/NYCBLive. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

Peter Quilin to make return on September 8th

Former middleweight champion Peter Quilin will return to the ring on September 8th after a 21 month layoff, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“People think I’m retired,” Quillin told ESPN on Wednesday night. “I would have announced if I was retired. But I’ve gone through a lot. I changed my team. I have some new people in my circle. I needed to make sure I had the time I needed with them. But now I am ready to go and ready to start the second leg of my career.”

“I’ve put it behind me,” Quillin said. “We can always pick and choose what we did wrong, but what happened happened. If in the future me and Danny can do a rematch so be it, but that story is the way God intended for me to learn.”

“I don’t want to be disrespectful to anyone I’ve worked with before, but being with Virgil, I find he explains things a lot more than I ever had. He’s psychologically preparing me. I got a little too comfortable in training. Now I understand it’s my job and my lifestyle.”

“I want to move back into the world title line,” Quillin said. “So Benavidez is the main event. I’ve watched him come a long way. He was my sparring partner for a few of my camps. Now I’m on his undercard. I appreciate the journey and what I’ve learned from the sport. You got to appreciate and understand the journey, but this part is humbling.”

“I’ve been middleweight since I was 18 years old, and making 160 was becoming a problem,” he said. “Behind the scenes I was suffering a lot in my body trying to make the weight. But now I am good in terms of my weight.”

“It’s hard living here [in the Bay Area] most of the time and trying to balance a family, but we do a lot of FaceTime,” he said. “But I feel I am back on track and looking forward to fighting again and continuing my journey.”

GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS PICKS FIGHTERS TO WATCH IN 2016

Bernard Hopkins
LOS ANGELES (Jan. 20, 2016) – Golden Boy Promotions has a great reputation in the sport as one of the leading promoters as well as a skill for creating and promoting world champions and boxing superstars. Having worked and promoted multi-divisional world champions including: Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins, Erik “Terrible” Morales, Juan Manuel “Dinaminta” Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Marco Antonio “Baby Face Assassin” Barrera, Sugar Shane Mosley, Canelo Alvarez, Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse, Jorge “El Nino De Oro” Linares, Randy “El Matador” Caballero, Abner Mares, Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder, Danny “Swift” Garcias, Keith “One Time” Thurman, Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs, Leo “Terremoto” Santa Cruz, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, and Adrien “The Problem” Broner. In 2016, Golden Boy Promotions is looking to the future to usher in the New Era of Boxing spearheaded by current WBC, RING Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (46-1-1, 32 KOs).

For 2015, Golden Boy Promotions received extraordinary media acclaim for exciting fights year-round and was awarded the honors of Promoter of the Year, Event of the Year, Fight Cards of the Year, Fight of the Year, Fighter of the Year, and Knockout of the Year. Also, top prospects Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (19-0, 11 KOs), Vyacheslav “Lion Heart-Chingonsky” Shabranskyy (15-0, 12 KOs), Jason “El Animal” Quigley (9-0, 8 KOs), and Diego De La Hoya (13-0, 7 KOs) not only graduated into contender territory, but also received honorable mentions for Prospect of the Year while Shabranskyy debuted at number nine on the light heavyweight pound-for-pound list.

Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (24-0, 21 KOs), also debuted on the pound-for-pound list at number five in the heavyweight division after defeating former world champion challenger Bryant “By-By” Jennings via seventh-round technical knockout. Other fighters on the divisional pound-for-pound list include Canelo Alvarez, Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas (23-0-1, 17 KOs), Jorge “El Nino de Oro” Linares (40-3, 27 KOs), Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins (55-7-2, 32 KOs), Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse (37-4, 34 KOs), Sadam “World Kid” Ali (22-0, 13 KOs), Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs), Randy “El Matador” Caballero (22-0, 13 KOs), Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (23-0, 15 KOs), Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs), David Lemieux (34-3, 31 KOs), Sergio “Yeyo” Thompson (30-4, 26 KOs), and Jayson “Star” Velez (23-1-1, 16 KOs).

Golden Boy Promotions’ top picks for “Fighters to Watch in 2016” include (in alphabetical order):

WORLD TITLE CONTENDERS:

WBA International Welterweight Champion, Sadam “World Kid” Ali

Sadam “World Kid” Ali: A member of the 2008 United States Olympic team fighting out of Brooklyn, New York, Sadam “World Kid” Ali (22-0, 13 KOs) impressed boxing fans with his unanimous decision victory over Francisco “Chia” Santana in April, 2015 that earned him the WBA International Welterweight Title and also made him the mandatory challenger for the WBO Welterweight World Championship.

Randy “El Matador” Caballero: Indio star Randy “El Matador” Caballero (22-0, 13 KOs) hit the heights of the boxing world in 2014 when he defeated Stuart “Stuey” Hall for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship. In 2015, forced Caballero to vacate the title, however, 2016 looks promising for the fighter as he prepares his big return to the ring on February 5 against Ruben Garcia at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor” Cano: Already a respected welterweight contender after bouts against the likes of Erik “El Terrible” Morales, Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi and “Sugar” Shane Mosley, Mexico’s Pablo “El Demoledor” Cesar Cano (29-4-1, 21 KOs) kept his march to a world title going in 2015, as he went unbeaten in three bouts against Jorge “Pantera” Silva, Juan Carlos “Merengue” Abreu and Silverio “Chamaco III” Ortiz.

Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos: The mandatory

WBC Featherweight World Championship Mandatory Challenger, Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos

challenger for the WBC featherweight world title, Celaya, Mexico’s Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos (23-11, 13 KOs) started his journey to become a champion very differently in 2014. Coming off a loss to Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado in February 2014, Castellanos followed it up with a dominant victory over Ronny Rios in October 2014, stopping the then-unbeaten prospect in the fifth round. Castellanos continued to show his power in January of 2015 facing the warrior Rocky Juarez for the chance to win the WBC Silver Featherweight title and become the mandatory challenger for the WBC Featherweight World Championship. Both fighters showed a lot of heart and put on one of the bloodiest fights of 2015, but it was Castellanos’ dominance that was on display as his powerful jabs, brutal uppercuts and well-timed counter-punching knocked down Juarez in the fifth and twice in the 10th round to win via unanimous decision with scores of 118-106, 118-106 and 118-107. Now, Castellanos is the WBC Feather World Championship mandatory challenger.

Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera: One of the truest warriors in the sport today, Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs) continued to show his supreme boxing skills and heart in a decision win over “Hammerin'” Hank Lundy in July to win the vacant NABF Super Lightweight title, and in 2016, big things are expected from Riverside’s “El Maestro” once more.

Tureano Johnson: A native of Nassau in the Bahamas, 31-year-old Tureano Johnson (19-1, 13 KOs) proudly represented his nation in the 2008 Olympics, making it to the quarterfinals in Beijing. In 2010, he turned professional and soared up the middleweight ladder before a controversial 2014 loss to Curtis Stevens. Undeterred, Johnson has since won five fights, four by knockout, and is one of the newest members of the Golden Boy Promotions roster. In his first fight since signing with Golden Boy Promotions, Johnson gave the fans a thrilling performance in the undercard of Gennaday Golovkin vs. David

Antonio “Relentless” Orozco

Lemieux at Madison Square Garden on October 17, 2015. Johnson faced Ireland’s Emmon O’Kane for the IBF Middleweight Title Eliminator, knocking down O’Kane twice in the first round and winning the fight via unanimous decision with scores of 118-108, 117-109, 119-107. Now the Nassau native is next in line for a shot at the unified middleweight championship in 2016.

Antonio “Relentless” Orozco: Unbeaten as a professional, San Diego’s Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (23-0, 15 KOs) made his move to the elite level of the super lightweight division in 2015. In May, Orozco defeated fellow rising star Emmanuel “Tranzformer” Taylor in Phoenix, but the best was yet to come, as he decisioned multi-division world champion Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto in their October bout at StubHub Center.

Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz: On Dec. 19, at Turing Stone Resort Casino inVerona,New York, Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (24-0, 21 KOs) defended his WBA Interim Heavyweight World Championship against one of the toughest fighters in the division, Bryant “By – By” Jennings in a fantastic display of boxing skill with a dramatic seventh round knockout of the former world champion challenger Jennings. Ortiz, dominated the fight early on with powerful hooks, uppercuts and jabs that kept him in

WBA Interim Heavyweight World Champion,
Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz

control of the pace throughout the 12-round heavyweight brawl. The victory allowed Ortiz to keep his undefeated status but also made a loud announcement to the boxing community that a new heavyweight threat had arrived to the division. This fight catapulted Ortiz on the heavyweight pound-for-pound list debuting at number five.

Michael “The Artist” Perez: Undefeated since 2012, exciting New Jersey native Michael “The Artist” Perez (23-1-2, 11 KOs) had one of the biggest years of his career in 2015, as he decisioned always toughMiguel “Aguacerito” Acosta in January and then knocked out Luis “Chespi” Sanchez in six rounds in July to win the vacant NABO lightweight title.

Ronny Rios: After suffering the first loss of his career to Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos in 2014, Santa Ana, California’s Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs) came back more determined than ever in 2015, and his performances in defeating Sergio “El Frio” Frias and previously unbeaten Jayson “Star” Velez proved that this 25-year-old was ready for prime time again.

USNBC Light Heavyweight Champion, Vyacheslav “Lion Heart-Chingonsky” Shabranskyy

Vyacheslav “Lion Heart – Chingonsky” Shabranskyy: People might have troublespelling the name of Vyacheslav Shabranskyy (15-0, 12 KOs), but among boxing fans, his name spells action, and he continued to deliver the goods in 2015, moving to 15-0 with wins against Garrett “The Ultimate Warrior” Wilson, Fabiano “Pit Bull” Pena, Paul “Pay Per View” Parker and Yunieski “El Monstro” Gonzalez, the latter three foes owning a combined 34-1-1 record and breaking him into the top 10 light heavyweight rankings on USA Today’s Boxing Junkie and ranking number 12 on the WBC’s rankings.

Patrick Teixeira: Brazil’s best boxing import since beloved former champion Acelino Freitas, unbeaten southpaw Patrick Teixeira (26-0, 22 KOs) fought twice in the United States in 2015, impressing fans in New York and California with knockouts of Patrick Allotey and Don Mouton that sent a warning to his fellow 154-pound fighters that he was here to stay.

CONTENDERS TO WATCH:

Manuel “Tino” Avila: Fairfield, California’s Manuel “Tino” Avila (19-0, 8 KOs) has long been one of the most exciting prospects on the local scene, and in 2015, he made his name on the national scene with wins over Erik Ruiz, Yoandris “El Nino” Salinas and Jose Angel “Pepe” Beranza, the Salinas fight earning him the interim NABF super bantamweight title.

WBC Youth Super Bantamweight Champion,
Diego De La Hoya

Diego De La Hoya: Highly-touted super bantamweight Diego De La Hoya (13-0, 7 KOs)made the jump to eight and ten-round bouts in 2015 and he continued to impress every step of the way en route to five more victories. In September, De La Hoya won his first pro title, decisioning against former world title challenger Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz for the vacant WBC Youth World Super Bantamweight belt.

Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr.: A member of the 2008 United States Olympic team, South El Monte, California’s Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (19-0, 11 KOs) won his first professional title in his fifth victory of 2015, as he impressively stopped Hugo “Olimpico” Partida in December to win the vacant NABF featherweight title and an honorable mention as one of ESPN.com’s 2015 Top 20 Rising Stars.

KeAndre “Black Magic” Gibson: 24-year-old welterweight undefeated fighter, KeAndre “Black Magic” Gibson (14-0-1, 6 KOs), who now makes his home in Las Vegas, has become quite popular with impressive victories over John Nater, Jose Hernandez and Nelson Lara. In his second fight of 2015, Gibson faced Jorge Ramos in an eight round fight winning the bout via unanimous decision in the undercard of Canelo-Kirkland on May 9.

Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez: East LA’s Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (19-0, 13 KOs) is known for his exciting style and powerful punches. He is the owner of 13 knockouts in three rounds or fewer and can also box, as shown in his near-shutout victories over longtime contenders Vernon “Ice Man” Paris in July of 2014 and Jorge “Pantera” Silva in October of 2015. A decorated amateur who won the 2009 United States Championship and earned a Silver medal in the 2009 World Championships, Gomez is ready to face the top opposition in the division and chase his dreams of a world championship in 2016.

Gilberto “El Flaco” Gonzalez: A former WBC Youth World Lightweight champion,

Abraham “Chamaco” Lop
Gilberto “El Flaco” Gonzalez (25-3, 21 KOs) picked up two early knockout wins in 2015, halting David “Nene” Rangel and Hevinson Herrera to set up a big 2016 for the Mexico City native.

Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez: Featherweight standout Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez (19-0-1, 14 KOs) returned from three years away from the sport in 2015 and the El Puente product picked up where he left off with knockout victories over former Ghana Olympian Alfred “The Stinging Bee” Tetteh and Jorge “King” Diaz and a draw against Juan “El Pez” Carlos Martinez.

Marcelino “Nino” Lopez: The latest star to emerge from the boxing hotbed of Argentina, Buenos Aires’ Marcelino “Nino” Lorenz (32-1-1, 17 KOs) continued dominating the local scene in his home country, but in October of 2015, he finally got the chance to introduce himself to United States fans when he knocked out David Rodela in three rounds at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.

Roberto “Tito” Manzanarez: Los Mochis, Mexico native Roberto “Tito” Manzanarez (32-1, 26 KOs) continued romping through the lightweight division in 2015, adding to his stellar record with a decision over Edgar “Lupillo” Ramirez and knockouts of Daniel “El Mulato” Valenzuela and Cristian “Veneno” Lopez.

NABF Lightweight Champion, Marvin “Cachorro” Quintero

Marvin “Cachorro” Quintero: Born in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, but now making hishome in Tijuana, Marvin Quintero is a former world title challenger whose first title fight was a razor-thin split decision loss to Miguel Vazquez in 2012. Since then, the 29-year-old southpaw has won two fights by knockout over Carlos Sanchez and Cesar De la Mora. In September of 2015 the veteran fighter proved he still had what it takes to chase championship gold when he defeated Puerto Rico’s Jeffery Fontanez via fifth-round knockout to gain the NABF Lightweight Title.

PROSPECTS TO WATCH:

Damon Allen: 23-year-old Philadelphian Damon Allen (8-0, 3 KOs) stepped through the ropes twice in 2015, stopping Luis “Yeye” Rodriguez in three rounds at home in Philly before making his Los Angeles debut in November with a decision victory over Oscar Santana.

Nick Arce: Hard-hitting 19-year-old Nick Arce (6-0, 6 KOs) didn’t stick around long for his five wins in 2015, as he knocked out each of his opponents before the final bell. This power and finishing ability has made this featherweight a must see for California fight fans, and the rest of the country should get introduced to him in the coming year.

D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard

D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard: 2015 was a pivotal year for Maryland supermiddleweight D’Mitrius Ballard (11-0, 7 KOs), and he passed his tests with flying colors, showing that he could box as well as bang in decision victories over Josue “Chiquilin” Ovando, Juan Carlos “Chiflado” Rojas and Fabiano “Pit Bull” Pena.

Ivan “Striker” Delgado: Keeping a steady pace throughout 2015, 25-year-old lightweight prospect Ivan “Striker” Delgado (8-0-1, 2 KOs) won five more bouts, and with fans packing the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles to see him fight on the LA Fight Club events, the future is bright for this up and comer.

Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez: 20-year-old Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (12-0, 11 KOs) added four more wins to his perfect pro record in 2015, and while he went the distance for the first time against Darryl Hayes in June, he closed out the year with a pair of second-round knockouts of Luis “Lichito” Lizarraga Jr. and Alejandro Ochoa.

Joet Gonzalez: Former amateur standout Joet Gonzalez (12-0, 6 KOs) is finding his way onto many hot prospect lists after a 2015 campaign that saw him go 4-0 with three knockouts. Included on that slate is a third-round KO of 12-0-1 prospect Marcos Rios in November.

Rashidi “Speedy” Ellis: A swift and ferocious striker, the undefeated Rashidi “Speedy”

WBA Fedecentro & WBC Interim Latin Welterweight Champion,
Rashidi “Speedy” Ellis

Ellis (14-0, 11 KOs) has repeatedly showcased his skills to audiences, most recently with a fourth-round technical knockout victory in Puerto Rico over Victor “Pambele” Gonzalez in March 2015 to claim the vacant WBA Fedecentro and the WBC Interim Latin Welterweight titles. Ellis won his three previous fights via technical knockout, defeating Joseph De los Santos and Joanthony Vazquez in Puerto Rico and Jose Martinez in the Dominican Republic. Later in 2015, Ellis played a key part in the training camp of Golden Boy Promotions fighter and now WBC, RING Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez. The 22-year-old Ellis trained with Canelo as a sparring partner in preparation for Alvarez’s November 21 super fight against Miguel Cotto. After “Speedy” put Alvarez to the test with his notoriously fast fists in training camp, Alvarez defeated Cotto via unanimous decision.

Travell “Black Magic” Mazion: 20-year-old Travell “Black Magic” Mazion (10-1, 10 KOs) is one of the top prospects in boxing, a fact evidenced by his a perfect professional record and knockout ratio, ending six fights in the first round. Now ready for his biggest year yet, Mazion is looking forward to start off the year strong in 2016.

Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete: Now making his home in Los Angeles, 27-year-old Colombia native Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete (12-0, 5 KOs) was a stellar amateur before turning professional on May 24, 2013 with a four-round decision victory over Cristian Ciciliano. Two more wins would follow in 2013 for Negrete, but it was in 2014 that he began to get noticed in his adopted home state of California, as he stepped up to the plate four times and hit it out of the park with each appearance, decisioning unbeaten Carlos

Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa

Medina and stopping Pablo Cupul, Gabriel Braxton, Salvador Perez. 2015 proved to be a
busy year for Negrete as he fought five times winning all his bouts via decision excluding the most recent in December, where he defeated Ernesto Guerro via third-round technical knockout.

Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa: After winning the first nine fights of his professional career onthe east coast, Brooklyn’s Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (13-0, 6 KOs) took his show on the road in 2015 and he continued to show off the skills that have made him a top prospect as he picked up four wins, including a big victory in Los Angeles over David Rodela and Alejandro “Soma” Rodriguez.

Jason “El Animal” Quigley: Former Irish amateur star Jason Quigley (9-0, 8 KOs) began his professional career in the United States in 2014, and he never left, learning his craft in Southern California. In 2015, Quigley scored five more wins by knockout before decisioning Marchristopher Adkins on November 20 and earning an honorary mention by Boxing News Magazine UK as one of the top prospects in the sport.

Julian “El Camaron” Ramirez: 22-year-old southpaw sensation Julian Ramirez (15-0, 8 KOs) kept piling the wins on in 2015, with his victories over seasoned veterans Raul “Bule” Hidalgo and Hugo “Olimpico” Partida setting Los Angeles’ “El Camaron” up for even bigger bouts when 2016 rolls around.

Lamont Roach Jr.

Lamont Roach Jr.: Washington D.C.’s Lamont Roach Jr. (9-0, 3 KOs) nearly doubled his
professional experience in 2015 with four victories that proved this 20-year-old super featherweight prospect is the real deal and a fighter to watch in 2016 and beyond.

Emilio Sanchez: Popular 21-year-old featherweight Emilio Sanchez (10-0, 7 KOs) had a busy year fighting in Golden Boy Promotions’ LA Fight Club series, going 5-0 with three knockouts at downtown Los Angeles’ Belasco Theater. The wins helped build Sanchez’ following and set the stage for another big year in 2016.

Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr.: Hailing from San Antonio, Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) has been fighting since 2007 and during that time has won eight national championships. In 2012, he qualified to attend the Veles Cup in Kurgan, Russia and took the gold medal in his weight class and was selected as one of seven to go to the 2016 Olympic trails. Decinding instead to become a professional boxer and sign with Golden Boy Promotions in 2014, Tanajar Jr. is now the owner of an undefeated record of 4-0 with three knockouts. Tanajara will look to continue his winning streak in 2015 when he fights on Feb.5.

ABOUT GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by 10-time world champion in six divisions Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the world and has worked with networks such as HBO, HBO Latino, Estrella TV, ESPN, TeleFutura, FOX Sports 1, FOX Deportes, Televisa and TV Azteca. The company has also promoted some of the top boxing events in the history of the sport including De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Mayweather vs. Canelo and other notable pay-per-view fights featuring fan-favorites Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins, Juan Manuel “Dinamita” Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Marco “Baby Faced Assassin” Antonio Barrera, Erik “El Terrible” Morales and Sugar Shane Mosley. For more information, visit www.GoldenBoyPromotions.com, or follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @GoldenBoyBoxing.

SHOWTIME® UNVEILS SATURDAY’S MIDDLEWEIGHT MAIN EVENT IN 360 VIDEO, WHERE UNDERDOG DANIEL JACOBS KNOCKED OUT PREVIOUSLY UNDEFEATED PETER QUILLIN

NEW YORK, NY – December 8, 2015 – For the first time ever, a boxing match has been released in its entirety in 360 degree immersive virtual reality, as SHOWTIME captured the shocking first round TKO from Saturday night’s main event between WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs’ and previously undefeated challenger Peter Quillin. The all-Brooklyn main event has been made available in 360 video from ring-side, giving fans an unprecedented boxing experience. The virtual reality video engrosses viewers in the matchup of the top middleweights, facing off in the prime of their career, where Brooklyn’s Jacobs (31-1, 28 KOs) won the “Battle For Brooklyn.” The 360 footage is viewable on the SHOWTIME Sports’ YouTube channel*, the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, on the Samsung Gear VR via the MILK VR app and Littlestar VR apps for Samsung Gear VR, iOS and Android.

The telecast is currently available On Demand, on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and on the SHOWTIME streaming service. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event happened live on SHOWTIME on Saturday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. One minute into the fight, Jacobs landed a straight right to Quillin’s temple and pounced with an onslaught of punches while his opponent was against the ropes. Quillin stumbled forward and referee Harvey Dock looked in Quillin’s eyes and halted the fight without the challenger ever touching the canvas.

The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

JACOBS STUNS QUILLIN IN ONE

BROOKLYN, NY – In the Battle for Brooklyn, Daniel Jacobs retained his middleweight title and shocked the Barclay’s Center crowd by scoring a first round stoppage over Peter Quillin. Less than a minute into the opening round, Jacobs connected with a huge overhand right that buckled Quillin’s knees. From that point on, it was all-in or bust for Jacobs who rained down a barrage of punches on the staggering Quillin. The definitive punch came courtesy of another Jacobs overhand right that landed flush on Quillin’s temple. The crushing blow offset Quillin’s equilibrium, locked his knees, and sent him awkwardly stumbling across the ring. Referee Harvey Dock took a look at Quillin, and briefly hesitated before he jumped between the fighters to stop the contest. The time of the stoppage was 1:25 of round one. Jacobs_Quillin

“I hope he’s okay,” Jacobs said. “I was patient and when I came with an uppercut I knew I hurt him and that’s when I went for the kill.

“I told him I love him. Me and Peter go back to the Golden Glove days. I respect him to death, but I knew this fight would be my night. There are no lucky shots in boxing. Obviously I caught him with a shot. Once I knew I had him hurt I kept going.

“I saw his eyes and it looked like his equilibrium was off. I’m not a referee, but if I was I probably would have still gave him another opportunity.”

“I definitely would give him a rematch,” Jacobs continued. “I’m willing to fight him next if that’s what the fans want.”

Quillin seemed to disagree with the stoppage until watching the replay during his SHOWTIME post-fight interview.

“That’s right on the temple,” Quillin said. “In the moment you don’t know what happens until you see it in the replay.

“This is a time you sit with your family and figure out what you have to do. I have a lot of options, maybe a rematch is the best option.

“I can’t think of a better person to lose to than Danny Jacobs.”

Jesus Ceullar v Jonathan Oquendo — 12 Rounds, for Cuellar’s WBA Featherweight Championship

In Saturday night’s co-feature, Jesus Cuellar (28-1, 21 KO) decisioned Jonathan Oquendo (26-5, 16 KO) by wide margins to retain his WBA featherweight title.

Cuellar was the more active fighter throughout the bout, throwing over 300 more punches than his counterpart. He was also the fighter who pressed the action, forcing Oquendo to a fight mostly defensive-style bout.

Cuellar_Oquendo
The largely uneventful contest did feature a flash knockdown in the fourth found when Cuellar and Oquendo’s legs tangled and a straight left hand sent an off-balance Oquendo briefly to the mat.

The knockdown had no significant impact on the fight, as all three judges scored the fight in favor of Cuellar by significant margins.

Judges Kevin Morgan and John McKaie scored the bout 116-111, while Robin Taylor scored it a shutout for Cuellar, 120-107.

15Rounds.com scored the bout 118-109, Cuellar.

“We knew the fight would be difficult but we accomplished everything we wanted to during training camp,” Cuellar said. “The only thing that was left was the knockout, but because of the movement of his head it was impossible.

“First we’re going to rest and then we’re going to determine what’s next,” Cuellar said.
“We’ll have two more fights at featherweight and then move up in weight. Hopefully we get Leo Santa Cruz next.”

After the fight, Oquendo acknowledged that he didn’t properly implement his game plan.

“I have to give credit to Cuellar. I never got to use my game plan and he fought a good fight and he’s a good champion,” Oquendo said. “I needed to start more aggressive but I started boxing. That was my mistake. The head butt made it hard for me to see as well.

“I have time to come back and get another world title opportunity. I am disappointed, but I will be back in the gym ready to get back to work soon.”

—

Chris Algieri v Erick Bone – 10 rounds, welterweight

Chris Algieri (21-2, 8 KO) bounced back from consecutive losses to Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan to earn a unanimous decision victory over Erick Bone (16-3, 8 KO). Algieri never looked sharp or comfortable against his Ecuadorian counterpart, often finding himself engaging blow-for-blow with his Ecuadorian counterpart. “I probably fought on the inside a little too much,” Algieri admitted after the fight. Algieri_Bone

Although he threw less punches than Bone, Algieri connected on 49% of his power punches, and landed 247 total punches, to Bone’s 185.

In the eight round, due to an undetected tangle of feet, Algieri knocked an off-balance Bone to the canvas with a straight right hand. That knockdown, which should have been ruled a slip or a trip, ended up being the deciding point on judge Julie Lederman’s scorecard who saw the fight 95-94, Algieri. Judges Ron McNair and Steve Weisfeld scored the bout wider with scores of 97-92.

“Erick said that he was going to have surprises, but I had a few of my own in there,” Algieri said. “I boxed a little bit and slugged more than I should have, but I was just having fun. He’s got a good punch, he’s an underestimated fighter and you could tell he was in great shape.

“This is big. Bone is a real tough guy and I felt in control. I thought the fight was mine the whole way. I wanted to get the knockout, but he was in great shape. I’m looking forward to big fights in 2016.”
—
Marus Browne
Marcus Browne v Francisco Sierra — 10 rounds, light heavyweight

Former three-time New York Golden Gloves champion Marcus Browne stayed undefeated and earned his 17th professional victory with a TKO3 over his Mexican foe, Francisco Sierra. Browne shell-shocked Sierra in the first round, landing shot after shot, and within the first 90 seconds of the match had opened up a huge cut over Sierra’s right eye that continued to worsen as the fight progressed. Browne_Sierra

Between rounds three and four, referee Earl Brown called a halt to the bout, acting on advice from the ringside physician, who inspected Sierra’s cut and felt it best that the fight be stopped.

“I saw I cut him early, but I had to stay persistent and consistent,” said Browne, of Staten Island. “I had to work the jab and keep working it. I felt like I seized this opportunity to put my name out there.

“It is an honor to fight at Barclays Center for the 10th time. It was a nice stoppage – not necessarily the kind of stoppage that you want, but a stoppage is a stoppage.”
—

Yuri Foreman v Lenwood Dozier, 8 rounds, welterweight

In an eight round bout, former welterweight champion Yuri Foreman fought his way to a unanimous decision victory over Lenwood Dozier. Foreman, who hadn’t entered the ring in over two years before this contest, never seemed to get into his signature stick-and-go rhythm that propelled him to his championship back in 2009. Because of this, he found himself on the receiving end Dozier’s right hand on numerous occasions – including a stunning overhand shot in the middle of the first round. To his credit, Foreman was able to weather all storms, and at the conclusion of round eight, all three judges – Julie Lederman, Ron McNair, and Frank Lombardi – turned in scores of 77-75, Foreman.

Foreman’s record improves to 33-2, 9 KO, while Dozier’s record falls to 9-10, 4 KO.

—

Will Rosinsky v Joe Smith, Jr. — 10 rounds, light heavyweight

Joe Smith, Jr. (20-1, 16 KO) decisioned fellow New York light heavyweight Will Rosinsky (19-3, 10 KO) to notch the biggest win of his career. Smith Jr. used his bigger frame to impose his will on his smaller opponent – often walking Rosinsky backward before settling in to throw heavy punches. Both fighters excited early arrivers at the Barclay’s Center with their willingness to take a punch in order to land their own; engaging in numerous ruthless exchanges throughout. At the conclusion of the fight, all three judges scored the fight in favor of Smith Jr. Judge Ron McNair saw it 98-92; Frank Lombardi scored it 97-93; and Steve Weisfeld had it 96-92.

—

Luis Garcia v Willie Williams – 4 rounds, cruiserweight

Undefeated Cuban cruiserweight Luis Garcia scored a first round TKO over Willie Williams. With the win, Garcia, who now fights out of Cork, Ireland improves his record to 13-0, 10 KO, while Williams’ record now reads 14-11-2, 4 KO.

—

Titus Williams v Emmanuel Castro — 6 rounds, featherweight

In a six round bout that saw both fighters hit the canvas in round one, Long Island’s Titus Williams (4-0, 2 KO) outlasted Los Angeles’ Emmanuel Castro to stay undefeated. Williams earned a unanimous decision victory by scores of 60-54, 60-53, and 59-54.

—

Heather Hardy v Noemi Bosques — 8 rounds, bantomweight

Brooklyn’s Heather Hardy defeated Florida’s Noemi Bosques for the second time in seven months via a unanimous decision. Hardy earned a split decision victory of Bosques back in May, but this time around left no doubts in the judge’s minds as she dominated the contest from start to finish. Judge’s scorecards read 80-72, twice, and 79-73, all in favor of Hardy.

“I WANT TO BRING HARM TO HIM,” INSISTS QUILLIN AHEAD OF WORLD TITLE SHOWDOWN WITH CHAMPION JACOBS EXCLUSIVELY LIVE ON BOXNATION

LONDON (Dec 4) – Middleweight star Peter Quillin says there will be nothing friendly about his world title matchup with fellow New Yorker Daniel Jacobs this weekend.

The pair will do battle in Brooklyn at the Barclays Center on Saturday night, exclusively live on BoxNation, with 28-year-old Jacobs putting his WBA title on the line against the former and undefeated champion in Quillin.

However, despite pre-fight talk of the duo being friends outside the ring, Quillin insists that will most certainly not be the case when they lock horns.

“Danny and I are very cordial, but when I step into that ring I want to bring harm to him and he wants to do the same to me. So I don’t know if you can consider us friends if we want to do that to each other,” said Quillin.

“I see a determined man in Daniel Jacobs. He’s battled with something I could never tell you about, so I give him that respect. I know what he’s coming to do Saturday night and I have to do it to him first,” he said.

Jacobs’s story is an incredible one having overcome cancer to eventually become world champion following a fifth round stoppage of Jarrod Fletcher last year.

This bout now represents the chance for him to claim hometown pride and he is ready to grab it with both hands, no matter how the fight plays out.

“A lot of people have said this won’t go 12 rounds. But you never know how a fight will go. Sometimes a war is expected and a boxing match breaks out. You never know how a fight will go,” said Jacobs.

“We’re prepared for the best Peter Quillin, whether he’s coming forward, backwards or side-to-side we do what we have to do to get the victory.

“I’m in a comfort zone at Barclays Center with my friends, family and fans cheering me on. But I also like that he has his people cheering too. That’s extra motivation. Technically there are people in my backyard rooting for me to lose,” he said.

‘The Miracle Man’ is also ready to put any friendship to the side when they get in the ring and was keen for the fight to happen sooner, when Quillin held the WBO title before vacating the belt.

“Peter Quillin said he didn’t want to fight me, years ago. Because of our personal relationship he said he didn’t want to fight me. I respected his opinion but I didn’t agree. This was back when he was a champion,” Jacobs said.

“I’m expecting the best Peter Quillin. We’ve both gone through intense training in order to make weight and be the best that we can be on fight night.”

The middleweight division features some of the biggest names around including Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez, with WBO champion Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders set to clash on December 19th to determine the other leading name at 160 pounds.

Jacobs though is ready to face any of the top candidates should he successfully come through the fight with 32-year-old Quillin.

“I just need to keep fighting at the elite level for 12-rounds in matchups like this. I’m a fan of the sport and I want to be in there with all the top guys. That’s why I called out Peter Quillin.

“I feel like I have the skill to be the best out there. When I get this victory I want to keep fighting bigger and better opposition,” said Jacobs.

Daniel Jacobs v Peter Quillin is exclusively live on BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD, Virgin 525, TalkTalk 415, online or app) this Saturday night. Visit boxnation.com to subscribe.

-Ends-
About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £12* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Collazo and Mayweather vs Maidana.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at Livesport.tv and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon). BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

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Jacobs-Quillin Official Weights

Daniel Jacobs (2)
WBA Middleweight World Championship
Daniel Jacobs – 159½ Pounds
Peter Quillin – 159 Pounds
WBA Featherweight World Championship
Jesus Cuellar – 125¼ Pounds
Jonathan Oquendo – 125½ Pounds
SHOWTIME BOXING ON SHO EXTREME®: 7 p.m. ET/PT
10 Round Welterweight Bout
Chris Algieri – 145¾ Pounds
Erick Bone – 145¾ Pounds
8 Round Light Heavyweight Bout
Marcus Browne – 177½ Pounds
Francisco Sierra – 183 Pounds
# # #
Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.
CONTACTS:

Video: Jacobs – Quillin weigh in Live at 1 PM ET

SAUNDERS: JACOBS AND QUILLIN ARE TOO SLOW FOR ME, I’D HAVE A FIELD DAY WITH THEM

WBO World Middleweight title challenger Billy Joe Saunders says he’d be too fast for either WBA champion Daniel Jacobs or Peter Quillin who clash tomorrow night live on BoxNation.

Saunders faces Andy Lee for his WBO crown on Saturday 19 December at the Manchester Arena, but will be watching his rivals closely to see the outcome.

The mega-middleweight fights are coming in thick and fast on BoxNation with Gennady Golovkin v David Lemieux and Miguel Cotto v Saul Alvarez super-fights already televised on the Channel of Champions.

However, Saunders says he’s not worried about the threat that Jacobs or Quillin would pose to him as his lightning hand and foot speed would be too much for them if they met.

“The middleweight division is hotting up nicely now, you’ve got Golovkin, Alvarez, and Cotto is still in there, and now these two lads’ are squaring up tomorrow night,” Said the Hatfield star.

“For me personally if I was fighting either of them, I know I’d be way to fast for them and would have a field day with them, they’re sluggers and too slow, I’m the better boxer and a boxer always beats a puncher,”

“I’d be darting in out and out, plenty of angles, variety of punches from both hands, head movement, I’m not saying I’d knock them out, but I’d comfortably out-punch and out-work them,”

“Jacobs is a good lad and he’s got the title, but I fancy Quillin in this one to beat him because he’s going to walk him down and get the decision,”

“I’ve got to get past Andy Lee first, he’s a good man, but I’m confident of beating him, and I’ve always said my eyes are on Cotto, who’s a hero of mine and I’d love to fight him.”

Frank Warren’s end of year title extravaganza ‘X-Mas Cracker’ is headlined by two massive world title showdowns with WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee defending his title against Billy Joe Saunders and WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith making his first title defence against Jimmy Kelly. A staggering SIX further titles are on the line with Mitchell Smith defending his WBO Intercontinental Super-Featherweight title against George Jupp; Paul Butler challenges for the Vacant WBO European Super-Flyweight Championship against Silvio Olteanu; Tommy Langford defends his WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship; Commonwealth Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Williams and Kris Carslaw clash with the Vacant British title also on the line; Jack Catterall defends his WBO Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Championship, and Tom Stalker and Craig Evans clash again for the Vacant WBO European Lightweight Championship. The undercard features Merseyside favourite Joe Selkirk in a six-round contest, Indian superstar Vijender Singh, Anthony Yarde and top Manchester prospects Jack Flattley and Dale Coyne, plus Razza Hamza.

Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £75, £100, £200 and £300 are available from:

www.frankwarren.com

TicketMaster

0844 844 0444

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Eventim

0844 249 1000

www.eventim.co.uk

Manchester Arena

0161 950 5000

0161 950 5229 (disabled access bookings)

www.manchester-arena.co.uk

*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise Daniel Jacobs v Peter Quillin live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com Or watch online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

DANIEL JACOBS VS. PETER QUILLIN FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Daniel Jacobs
NEW YORK (December 3, 2015) – Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin spoke to the media for the final time Thursday at a press conference in Manhattan before they enter the ring Saturday, Dec. 5, live on SHOWTIME® at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The middleweight title showdown headlines a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar battling Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo. In action on SHO EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT), former world champion Chris Algieri faces Ecuador’s Erick Bone and Staten Island’s “Sir” Marcus Browne enters the ring against Francisco Sierra.

Further undercard action features popular Brooklyn contender Heather “The Heat” Hardy, former world champion Yuri Foreman and light heavyweight contender Will Rosinsky in separate bouts.

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“A lot of people have said this won’t go 12 rounds. But you never know how a fight will go. Sometimes a war is expected and a boxing match breaks out. You never know how a fight will go. We’re prepared for the best Peter Quillin, whether he’s coming forward, backwards or side-to-side we do what we have to do to get the victory.

“I feel like I have the skill to be the best out there. When I get this victory I want to keep fighting bigger and better opposition.

“I’m expecting the best Peter Quillin. When you expect the best and it doesn’t turn out that way, I can rely on that preparation.

“We’ve both gone through intense training in order to make weight and be the best that we can be on fight night.

On his son Nathaniel’s birthday today “My son is one of the biggest boxing fans in the world. He understands the situation at hand. He says he doesn’t want me to come home, he just wants me to focus on the fight and celebrate after. For him to donate his birthday to me is the most incredible thing ever.”

PETER QUILLIN

“Everybody wants to be a part of something that’s bigger than themselves. Everyone on this dais gives me a reason to fight even hard.

“Daniel Jacobs. I want to thank you. You’re the champ and you called out the undefeated challengers. I come from nothing, so I’m thankful to have this light and this opportunity.

“My dad came here without shoes or a shirt, just a pair of pants. Now his son is fighting for a world title on this stage.

“Everyone on this stage fights with their own story. I just want everyone to give respect. We all fight for different reasons and we just want to have people support us for positive reasons.

“I’m glad I’ve made the decisions that I’ve made in life that have taught me to be a better man and a better person. Regardless of what the media says about me, I’m thankful for it, because it motivates me.

“I fight for the people that need strength. For everyone who comes here fighting for opportunities.

“This camp was different because of the heat. I was training like I was in Cuba. I’m in a great position to be successful right now.

“My team is outstanding. We’ve been putting things together. We have a factory, which is the gym and all the workers assemble the product. I’m the product. Come Saturday night we’re going to put the product to use.

“I’m fit. I’m ready to go. The training has been A-1, steak sauce. The steak is nothing with out the A-1. I’m blessed and motivated. I’m so fired to get in there.

“Danny and I very cordial, but when I step into that ring I want to bring harm to him and he wants to do the same to me. So I don’t know if you can consider us friends if we want to do that to each other.

“I can talk about my game plan but I just want to fight. I’m smart. I can only win one round and one minute at a time. I’m learning everything about Danny right in that moment. Every second counts.”

JESUS CUELLAR

“This will be a great victory for Argentina. I know Oquendo is a great fighter, but I will be victorious on Saturday night.

“I want to make a statement on Saturday. Everyone in the division should watch out for me, because I am coming for the top spot. I’m too motivated, too strong and too talented to be stopped.

“I fight for my country, for my team and for my family. This is a great stage for me to showcase my talent against a talented fighter. I know he will be prepared but I will not be denied.

“We both have very aggressive styles so this will be an action-packed fight. There will be a lot of punches thrown and eventually, I will knock him out.”

JONATHAN OQUENDO

“I’m thankful to everyone for this opportunity, especially Jesus Cuellar for putting his belt on the line.

“I know how important this fight is for me. I know Cuellar has a very aggressive style and this fight is going to be a war. There will be blood in the ring.

“I’m ready for a war. I know he is a tough, strong fighter, but we’ve been in there before with guys like him. We’re ready for a 12 round war.

“We’re confident because we’ve put in the work to get us here. Cuellar and I have the same style, the type of style that makes for a tough, exciting fight.

“This is my chance for a world title and I’m going to leave everything in the ring.”

CHRIS ALGIERI

“Barclays Center has become a second home for me. I’ve had some great performances there and I’m looking to have another sensational one on Saturday night.

“Make sure you get tickets to this. It’s an honor to be on a card like this with so many great fights and matchups. Being able to perform in Brooklyn with these other great fighters is truly special.

“Don’t miss my fight, because it’s going to be a sensational victory.”

ERICK BONE

“Boxing is about big surprises. Everybody knows in this sport, that everyone has one opportunity. This is my opportunity on Saturday night.

“I’m healthy, ready and excited to be fighting on Saturday. I’ve been in Brooklyn training for a long time now and it’s just a matter of waiting until it is my time to make my mark.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“I’m so thankful to have this opportunity to showcase my talent. I’m here to do what I have to do to get this victory. I’m ready to show out.

“This is a great card. I know both of these guys personally so I don’t really care who wins. May the best man win. The love is still the same, it’s tugging at me.

“Make sure you come out early because these fighters are putting it all on the line and it’s going to be a great night.”

HEATHER HARDY

“I’d like to thank Lou DiBella and Barclays Center for being so supportive of female boxing. It’s not very common so it really means a lot to have this spot to showcase my talent.

“I’m competing in a rematch with Noemis Bosques after we did eight rounds of toe-to-toe action back in May. It was really a war and I expect it to be a great battle.

“She wants to come back and get beat again, so make sure you get there early on Saturday to catch all of it.”

YURI FOREMAN

“It’s very exciting to compete amongst great fighters. Coming back is a great feeling for me, especially to be coming back as a Rabbi. For my observant friends, the fight starts early so for those who live a little distance from Barclays Center, you should start walking early and then take a train. I will be fighting after sundown, so it will all be kosher.

“I want to wish everyone good luck and much blessings. We’re all going to showcase our talent and skills. It’s going to be an exciting night of fighting.”

WILL ROSINSKY

“This is going to be a really good fight. Joe and I go back a long ways with sparring and we know each other very well.

“We’re not going to be feeling each other out. I’m expecting fireworks from the beginning and for all 10-rounds. Start to finish.

“He’s claiming to have one punch knockout power and I’m going to prove him wrong. I’m going to show him early that he’s in way over his head. It’s going to be a good win for me Saturday and I’m looking forward to it.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“This Saturday night we have a tremendous show at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. It’s “The Battle For Brooklyn” and a battle between two of the great middleweights in the world. The championship is on the line and bragging rights are at stake.

“It’s going to be an entire night of unbelievable boxing from the time that the doors open. I want to urge people to get tickets and get there for the whole night of fights.

“The undercard is really, truly unbelievable. Competitive fights and recognizable names are going to be in the ring all night. It’s the kind of undercard that boxing fans have been asking for, for a long time. We’re delivering great fights from the moment you walk in.

“People have asked me who I like in Jacobs vs. Quillin and I say I like both of them, because that’s the truth. Frankly, both can win and they bring some different things to the table. Daniel is a little bit faster but Peter is a hard-punching middleweight who knocks guys out. It’s a scary fight for both guys but I think they’re both supremely confident.

“This is one of those fights if you’re a fan, you really have to see. Make sure you see it live. Get your tickets for an unbelievable night of boxing.

“This is the kind of fight that boxing needs. A champion versus a former champion, who never lost his title in the ring. Just as a fan, I’m really excited to watch this fight.”

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Barclays Center

“Saturday night will be one of the biggest boxing events we’ve ever had at Barclays Center. It’s a huge week in Brooklyn and big night for boxing on Saturday.

“I consider both good friends who I would help whenever they needed. It’s going to be a special night for me, Barclays Center and most importantly, for Brooklyn.

“When you think about venues in this country, Barclays Center is at the top of the list when you’re talking about boxing and we’ve only been doing it for three years.

“Beyond the main event, there are some great stories to be told on Saturday night. When you think of Heather Hardy, Chris Algieri, Will Rosinsky, Yuri Foreman and of course Marcus Browne, who is fighting at Barclays Center for the tenth time and has certainly made it his home.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME SPORTS

“This will be SHOWTIME’s seventh event at Barclays Center, which is roughly half of the boxing at Barclays Center, and that is no accident. On top of being a first class venue, all of you know by now that Brett Yormark has made himself a fixture in boxing. I can’t think of a better venue for an event like this.

“It’s an interesting week for New York sports. It’s rivalry week with last night being Islanders versus Rangers at Barclays Center, Friday night is the Nets against the Knicks and Sunday is Jets versus Giants. Right in the middle of it, is the ‘Battle For Brooklyn.’ It’s another local rivalry and I think it’s going to be the most exciting matchup of any of these events.

“You all know Daniel Jacobs, the champion and Peter Quillin, the former champion. In his last seven fights, Quillin has recorded 15 knockdowns. When you have those kind of numbers, and I don’t do this often, but I guarantee we’re going to have exciting fight after exciting fight.”

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

DANIEL JACOBS VS. PETER QUILLIN BROOKLYN MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

Danny Jacobs
BROOKLYN (December 2, 2015) – Before they enter the ring at Barclays Center, fighters competing on Saturday’s card headlined by the middleweight title showdown live on SHOWTIME® between Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin held a media workout Wednesday at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn.

In attendance at the workout were both main event fighters, co-main event participants Jesus Cuellar and Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo along with Chris Algieri, Erick Bone and “Sir” Marcus Browne, who will have their fights aired on SHO EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT).

Competing in separate undercard fights and also in attendance at Gleason’s Wednesday were Heather “The Heat” Hardy, Yuri Foreman, Will Rosinsky and Joe Smith Jr.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“Not only are we fighting for the bragging rights in Brooklyn, but we both want to be at the top of the middleweight division. All the top middleweights are fighting each other and we’re right in that realm.

“I believe my speed is my greatest advantage. My skill, my ring generalship … I could go on and on. Ultimately it’s about going in there and proving it.

“I think taking a loss before benefits me. I know exactly how to prepare and how to prepare to make sure I never have that feeling again.

“He’s gonna have to hit me to test my chin. This sport is about hitting and not getting hit. Anybody can be knocked down, but you have to land shots. Every time I’ve gotten knocked down, I’ve gotten up.

“My prediction is that I’m going to have my hand raised in victory. Whether it’s by knockout or decision, we’ll have to see.

“This camp has been different because I’ve had a pre-camp. We had three weeks of just strength and conditioning. I got in shape to get ready for camp. When it’s all done, it’s going to be a 10-week camp.

“Mentally I feel like I’m strong and I like where I’m at physically. My weight is good and I feel healthy. We’re going to give the best of everything.

“A lot of people are excited about the fights. I’m just excited it is finally here and I’m hoping to come out with a victory in impressive fashion.

“This is a boxer vs. a boxer-puncher. If I get a guy hurt. I can get a guy out of there as well. My punching power is there. I have more knockouts than Quillin and I’m going to be at my best on Saturday.

“I’m thankful for all my fans. I want everyone to know that I’m coming to represent Brooklyn and this show will not disappoint on Saturday night.”

PETER QUILLIN

“Distractions are in your head, but they can be a bit more here in New York. It’s nice to get away to Miami and be able to concentrate on training and have everything right there.

“The buzz around Brooklyn is I am the new champ. I came to New York with a small city mindset but big city dreams and now they are all coming true.

On chatting with Floyd Mayweather Tuesday night at Barclays Center: “It’s funny because I was speaking to a school today, but when I first met Floyd Mayweather, it was at my school and I was like ‘man I could be like that too one day’ and I told him about it. He didn’t understand why I said that, ‘it all started because of you’ and he said ‘what do you mean’ and I told him what happened. We laughed about it and that’s all I needed right there. I didn’t need him to do anything for me just to know that it all started back with him coming to my school and speaking to kids like me and look where I am now. I was only 14-years-old.

“You can expect fireworks in the month of December. We’re going to be throwing everything we can possibly throw.

“Being in Miami with all the Cuban history there was great. Boxing was like a fighter lifestyle. I was around many people who were inspirational beyond words.

“When I went to the (Erislandy) Lara fight we were looking for parking and I went up to a guy and I asked if we could park there. He goes ‘tu eres chocolate?’ (you are chocolate) and I said yes, and he said ‘do you know how much Cuban people love you?’ I had never realized that before and it made me more inspired, to speak more Spanish, to understand my people. Cuban people are my people, I never would deny that and I am very blessed. I am also a black American as well so I want to set a good example, especially where the time in the world is in right now for black people. I want to be an inspiration for both.

“We’ve got a plan A, plan B, plan C, plan D, plan E, plan F. We are going to go to beyond, but most importantly I am very happy. I am spiritually happy and thankful. You fall out of fear and fall into faith and you can never deny yourself, so that’s where I am right now.

“By being Cuban automatically you fight from a different point of perspective of the globe when it comes to fighting. For me, I’m thankful and more inspired to work even harder because I do have fans that I would never expect would be my fans.

“I haven’t seen ‘Creed’ yet; I am only focused on this fight. I want to create my own ‘Creed’ moments in this fight.

“Altogether I think it’s probably about an equally matched fight. You have two determined guys fighting for their own personal reasons; he’s fighting with a cancer story, I’m also fighting with that. My uncle passed away of cancer so I fight with a piece of him as well.

“I’m just Peter Quillin. All I know is just go in that ring, train against whoever it is, no matter who it is and do my best.

“My mom always said, ‘sometimes it takes getting put on your ass to know where you’re at’ so it could be helpful to him that he’s tasted defeat. He’s been there before, you fight with the reason that you don’t ever want to be there again or he could’ve even gotten better after that sitting on his butt, now he wants to fight harder.

“My prediction for Saturday? A new champion of the world.

“I’ve never been in this kind of moment before where I had to fight one of my friends. You never want to hurt your friend, but in this fight, I want to hurt Danny so what does that tell you about our friendship right there? Sometimes you don’t want to be friends with the guy that beat you up.
“It’s going to be sort of like July 4th but on Dec. 5th. You are going to expect fireworks, two determined guys throwing punches trying to win for two different reasons and you’re going to get an entertaining fight.

“I just have to let my hands go and not have a worry in the world because when you’re in there, you’re in there and there’s no way you can leave unless you leave in a stretcher, hand up or with a draw like we did in that fight.”

JESUS CUELLAR

“I’m coming here very prepared. I know Oquendo is a tough fighter and we are not taking him lightly. We’re ready for a 12-round championship fight.

“We know there will be a lot of Puerto Ricans supporting him, but they won’t change anything. They can’t get in the ring.

“You’re going to see a great fight on Saturday and you’re going to see Jesus Cuellar walk out of the ring a world champion.

“I want to fight the best in the division. There are many good fighters and I want all of them. I have no fear and I am extremely confident in my abilities.”

JONATHAN OQUENDO

“I come ready to fight. I didn’t want to take off a lot of time after I beat Jhonny Gonzalez. The opportunity for a world title shot came and I had to take it.

“I know he is a very strong fighter, but we are coming to win. I’m happy to be here in New York with the Puerto Rican fan base behind me. I never thought I’d be fighting for a world title here in New York on the biggest stage.

“It’s going to be a war. I like to stay there in the pocket. It’s going to be blood in the ring and you can expect that on Saturday.

“I had a great training camp up in Palm Beach, Florida for the first time leaving Puerto Rico, my hometown for training but on Saturday you’ll see a great Jonathan Oquendo and I’ll come out victorious.

“I have been training since after the fight with Jhonny Gonzalez. I went to Mexico to visit the virgin of Guadalupe and that Monday I was training and for me it was excellent.

“My last victory gave me a lot more energy, a lot more hunger and I know on Saturday we’ll come through victorious.

“Cuellar is a very strong boxer who exerts lots of pressure and we’re ready for that. We know of his record and the great success that he’s had. He’s the current champion and will be until the 5th.

“I’ve always wanted to fight here in New York and I never thought that it would be for a world title.

“It doesn’t matter which way, whether it’s a KO or decision, on Saturday I’m going to win.”

CHRIS ALGIERI

“I feel a lot more comfortable now with (trainer) John David Jackson and having a second camp. We got more weeks with him and haven’t really stopped training. Now I think we can settle in a little more, make some adjustments that were not able to make prior but now I feel a lot more comfortable.

“Being a favorite or not doesn’t change how I prepare for a fight but absolutely, this is the fight of his life. I’ve been here before fighting bigger names than myself but that’s just kind of the life cycle of boxing.

“Barclays Center is my favorite place to fight. I’ve had my best performances here and the fan support has always been fantastic. So I am looking forward to putting on another great show.

“Barclays Center is a premiere venue and it’s great and easy for my Long Island friends to come out and get right in there.

“I’ve learned and gotten more comfortable in the ring now but this is going to be a tough fight to fight. Everybody at this level is good so I’ve got to go out there and perform.

“I feel fantastic, I feel stronger, everybody says I look better. My power has definitely increased now that I am in a higher class and I am making weight very easy.”

ERICK BONE

“Camp has been strong, it’s been great, it has been one of the best camps that I’ve had so far.

“I feel good because Algieri has a big name. It’s going to be a challenge but in boxing once you get in the ring it doesn’t matter who comes in first or who comes in last in these fights. There’s no A and B, they’re so close.

“It has been very positive being here in Brooklyn to do my camp and training here. Being able to spar with the many great boxers who are here, it’s all a positive experience.

“For the fans that will see me on Saturday, I believe that I am a great boxer and they will see a great fight. They should keep an eye out for me because they will remember my name.

“We’re going to box and I trained to win and we are prepared for just that.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“You can expect fireworks, speed, good boxing ability, but, most importantly, a W. I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to put on a good show

“Staten Island will come out to support, but I’m a New York fighter through and through. The whole city will be there supporting me.

“He’s tall, throws a lot of punches. We’re going to be ready for whatever he brings. He can get right-hand happy and we’ll be ready to counter that.

“Everyone who fights me, they’re all coming for my 0.

“In boxing at the end of the day, when you’re a young undefeated fighter, everybody wants to take that ‘0’ so that’s what makes guys hungry but for me personally I’m not worried about that. I’m just worried about what I’m going to do and what we’ve been working on in the gym to apply that on fight night come Saturday.”

HEATHER HARDY

“I had no break during Thanksgiving, we went straight through; matter of fact my mom is having our whole family over on Sunday for Thanksgiving dinner. It’s going to be a celebration and I’m going to eat my mashed potatoes like a good Irish girl is supposed to.”

“One thing I can say about my opponent is that she fights like a champion fights. There’s a different caliber of fighter that you go in there with and she’s not a quitter, she doesn’t give up. I couldn’t intimidate her, I couldn’t push her around and that’s something I’ve prepared for. She knows what I have and she’s not afraid to stand toe to toe with me so it’s going to be a battle.

“Her talent does motivate me. It brings something out of me and it puts on a better show for the fans and it gives a better show for female boxing. Holly Holm did not prove that Ronda Rousey couldn’t fight, it proved that more than one woman could fight at the same time. So, when two women can go in there and really go at it and give the people a show, it’s not just one girl doing a great job, it’s two women.

“I’m looking to prove that I am the champion, that I am the “First Lady” of Barclays Center.

“I’ve kept on this winning streak and I think I’m ready for the more elite fighters. I consider myself to really be a contender at this point so I’m looking forward to this. I’d like to start matching up for the world titles and all the girls who’ve got them.

“My trainer always says that there are only four punches in boxing, you better learn how to do them perfect every time you throw them and they’re getting there. So, I feel good, experienced, just being around certain things, not being surprised by anything because I’ve seen it before. All of those things play in to it.

“It’s surreal to be in this position. I still can’t believe sometimes people say ‘hey champ’ and I say ‘what? yea that is me.’ Just to be associated with this and how people think of me, to see me, to be mentioned on this card is an honor.”

YURI FOREMAN

“I don’t do predictions but I can predict that I am going to win.

“I feel good, with this comeback I am feeling these little butterflies here and there. I am happy that it is right here. The training is all done.

“The preparation has been great, I love the routine, I like to challenge myself and push myself to the limit extra hard but it’s a new feeling. I’m also trying to maintain my cool and not get into my head.

“There is extra motivation because there are so many great fighters on this card and everyone wants to showcase their talent, including me.

“My goal is to go up the ladder, be successful and challenge the world champion, whoever it may be at the time.”

WILL ROSINSKY

“I know him because we sparred a lot. I know the adjustments I had to make we’re ready for because we were in front of each other but sometimes you just keep the same game plan.”

“On a week to week basis, I train in the day and work night or work in the day and train at night, depends. On a night tour I train in the morning then work the night tour, get off and go back to training. So, I might not be home for about a day and half. My commitment is 100 percent, it’s no problems at all.

“My goal is to fight for a world title. It’s a common goal in boxing. I want to make money and enjoy the fruits of my labor.

“This is an easy week, my weight is good. Being at 174 is not too heavy for me so I’m not really sucking to make weight last minute. I weighed out in the gym at 173½ yesterday so I am rehydrating up to 175/176 pretty easily.

“There are actually some similarities between fighting and being a firefighter because it’s a controlled chaos as they say. Same idea with the fight, you’re going crazy in your head but you’ve got to stay controlled and stay on your game plan. If your corner tells you something you’ve got to take that in and use it for the next round.”

JOE SMITH JR.

“Training camp has been going real great, done a lot of sparring and a lot of running. I feel great going into the fight, I feel in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to put on a good show.

“I don’t think there’s problems really that my opponent is going to present me with but I’m in the best shape of my life, so as long as I let my hands go there’s nothing that he can do.

“I’m a big puncher and I’m looking to throw a lot of hard punches and put on a good show.

“It’s a great opportunity, it feels good to be a part of something like this.

“I predict that there’s going to be a lot of punches thrown and most likely at some point in the fight I’m probably going to hurt Will and get him out of there.”

MEDIA & TOP FIGHTERS GIVE THEIR PREDICTIONS ON DANIEL JACOBS VS. PETER QUILLIN WORLD TITLE SHOWDOWN SATURDAY NIGHT AT BARCLAYS CENTER

Daniel Jacobs
NEW YORK (Dec. 2 2015) – In an excellent matchup between fighters in the prime of their careers, middleweight world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs (30-1, 27 KOs) will take on undefeated former 160-pound world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (32-0-1, 23 KOs) this Saturday, Dec, 5 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

So who will win the can’t miss, sure to be intense 12-round argument no one expects to be a blowout?

The result of the 28 media who participated in a SHOWTIME Prediction Poll favored Quillin by a 3-to-1 margin. Quillin, a former WBO Middleweight World Champion, was the selection of 21 experts, Jacobs, a winner of 10 straight by knockout and the current WBA Middleweight World Champion, the pick on 7.

Nineteen boxers, five of whom are world champions, gave their predictions and came up with a different conclusion than the writers. While some saw it as too close to call, those that did make predictions saw it for Jacobs, 8-5-2.

How the media and fighters see “JACOBS VS. QUILLIN”:

Tim Dahlberg, Associated Press, (Jacobs): “I like Jacobs in a tough fight, winning by a close decision. With Quillin’s power he might go down at some point in the fight, but I like Jacobs’ boxing IQ and skills to pull him to a close win.”

Kevin Iole, Yahoo Sports, (Quillin): “Peter Quillin by decision: This is one of those fights I literally just flipped a coin to pick. I like Jacobs’ range and I think he has faced better competition from top to bottom, but Quillin is an accurate puncher with good power and I think he will win a dogfight.”

Bob Velin, USA Today, (Jacobs):”While Quillin is bigger and a bigger puncher, Jacobs will outbox him. I just feel with all that Jacobs has been through in his life, he wants this more than Quillin. That will be the difference. Jacobs wins unanimous decision.”

Lance Pugmire, Los Angeles Times, (Quillin) “Peter Quillin has been working toward a victory like this for years. It’s time to put up or shut up and this test against a cerebral Daniel Jacobs will let us know once and for all if Quillin is elite or is entitled. Quillin by unanimous decision.”

Mark Jacobsen, New York Magazine, (Quillin): “Quillin will win. Jacobs has good name (minus two letters) but he is light in the resume. Quillin beat Andy Lee (note: split draw) and is gritty.”

Robert Morales, Los Angeles News Group, (Quillin): “I’m taking Peter Quillin to take Daniel Jacobs’ title via decision. Simply, I think Quillin is a better fighter and that his superior skills will bring him his second world title in this division. My only concern is Quillin making weight. But if he hasn’t struggled so much to do so, he’ll win.”

Brian Campbell, ESPN, (Quillin): “What makes this middleweight title fight so intriguing is both fighters still have questions to answer regarding whether they are truly elite. Both are athletic and powerful, and each has shown a certain level of vulnerability. Ultimately, I think Quillin has the stronger chin and that will be the difference. Quillin by KO.”

Damian Calhoun, Orange County (Calif.) Register, (Jacobs): “They’ve been calling each other out for years and now they’re finally going to meet in the ring. I expect this fight to be close. I can see both fighters getting tested and touching the canvas in this fight. In the end, I think Jacobs, with his overall boxing skills, will be able to do enough to edge Quillin for a unanimous decision victory. Should be a great fight.”

Lyle Fitzsimmons, CBSSports.com, (Quillin): “A hard fight not to like, between two fighters whose styles are appealing. There’s admittedly little to separate between the two, so in a close one I’ll go with the guy who’s had more big-stage opportunities — Quillin. He can hold his own in a technical match, and he’s got enough dog in him to grind through a tough one, too. Quillin by close decision.”

Kelsey McCarson, BleacherReport.com, (Quillin): “Kid Chocolate proved his ability as a boxer in his draw with Andy Lee, and there’s never been any question about his power. The combination of those two things, alongside his experience, will lead him to victory in a close and entertaining bout. Quillin by decision.”

Ricardo Lopez, La Opinion, (Jacobs): “I think Jacobs wins this one to extend his impressive 10-fight KO streak. He’s proven to be really strong, but it will be a close one.”

Andreas Hale, Ring Magazine, (Jacobs): “Danny Jacobs has been primed for greatness the moment he started his pro career. Never mind his loss to Dmitry Pirog, he wasn’t mentally in the game. Aside from that hiccup, he’s showcased remarkable skill and a knack for the finish. Quillin has been sharp, but hasn’t quite passed the eye test for me. His fight with Andy Lee was perhaps indicative of what happens when Quillin steps up in competition. With Jacobs being the more skilled of the two and on a mission to keep the judges out of the decision, I see him taking over late in a competitive fight where Jacobs slowly wears down Quillin en route to a late stoppage.”

Jake Donovan, BoxingScene.com, (Quillin):”Quillin can crack, but his finishing skills leave a lot to be desired. That said, Jacobs has yet to prove he can overcome in-ring adversity. Conquering cancer is braver than any battle he’ll ever experience in the ring … but as far as this fight goes, depending on him to box that cleanly for 12 rounds without getting caught clean is asking a lot. The ultimate wild card is whether or not Quillin can effectively make weight. Providing that he doesn’t struggle in that regard, my hunch is that he ends the fight at some point with one big punch to become a two-time middleweight titlist. Quillin wins by KO.”

Doug Fischer, RingTV.com/The Ring magazine, (Quillin), “I think Daniel Jacobs, the more polished boxer of the two middleweights, will outclass Peter Quillin over the first half of an intense boxing match. I believe Jacobs will use his sharper technique to catch Quillin between wide power volleys. He might drop Kid Chocolate early. But I think Quillin will gradually impose his greater size and strength on Jacobs. I think Quillin will catch and overwhelm Jacobs late in the fight to win by TKO”.

Mike Sloan, Sherdog.com, (Quillin): “This is such a terrific fight, one that can go either way. With so many variables being taken into account, with both Quillin’s and Jacobs’ skill sets, it’s actually a toss-up. Both men have terrific power, they both have great hand speed and they have taken on quality opposition. My gut initially told me that Quillin would come out on top but I’ve been flip-flopping ever since this fight was announced. With that said, I have to stick with my gut and go with Kid Chocolate via majority decision.”

Anson Wainwright, RingTV.com/RING magazine, (Quillin):”An excellent matchup for the middleweight championship of Brooklyn. I see this as 50-50. Both guys have very good power and are capable of hurting the other. I can see both on the canvas with Quillin doing enough to win a very good fight on points, with talks of a rematch afterwards.”

Joe Santoliquito, RingTV.com/Sherdog, (Quillin): “I like Quillin’s hand speed and punching power. I also feel he’s recently been in with better opposition, preparing him for fights like this. Quillin wins a decision.”

Miguel Maravilla, FightNews.com, (Quillin): “It will be a close fight but I give the edge to Quillin to win a decision.”

Percy Crawford, FightHype.com, (Quillin): “Quillin showed a lot of growth suffering his first blemish (draw against Andy Lee). He also handled being floored for the first time very well against a very dangerous Lee during that fight. I just don’t see Daniel Jacobs being able to put him in situations he can’t handle. Quillin comes on in the mid rounds and stops Jacobs by eighth-round TKO!”

Diego M. Morilla (XN Sports, RingTV.com), (Quillin): “It is a very close fight on paper, and it will live up to the expectations. Both fighters are equally skilled and both are proven at this weight, but in terms of resilience and power, the advantage goes to Quillin by a small but meaningful margin. Kid Chocolate is the one who has faced the strongest, most powerful opponents so far, and his results have been impressive for the most part. If Jacobs can establish his distance and his speed, he has a chance. But if Quillin is able to turn this into a fight he’ll score a decisive win by decision or late stoppage.”

Steve Lillis, Box Nation, (Quillin): “Great match and local bragging rights make it even sexier. I am edging towards Quillin who is more battle-hardened. Quillin by TKO 8.”

Eric Raskin, Boxing Writer/PBC Ringside Scorer (Quillin): “Jacobs has been one of the best feel-good stories in boxing over the last few years, but feel-good stories don’t win you tough fights. Quillin is the highest caliber opponent he’s faced since his upset loss to Dmitry Pirog, and I expect Kid Chocolate’s length and strength to separate him from Jacobs. Look for a fan-friendly, competitive fight, with Quillin winning by decision, roughly eight rounds to four.”

Brad Berkwitt, RingsiderReport.com, (Jacobs): “On paper, this is a great matchup and New York City, which has some of the greatest boxing fans in the world will love it! It’s really a tough fight in my book to call, but I’m going with Danny Jacobs by a tough close decision in the 115-113 range.”

John J. Raspanti, MaxBoxing.com, (Quillin); “I’m going with Quillin for two reasons: Talent and whiskers. Quillin has also been in with the better fighters during his time in the ring. He showed a strong chin against Andy Lee seven months ago. Cancer survivor Jacobs is a great guy, but looked vulnerable against Sergio Mora in his last fight. If the feather-fisted ‘Latin Snake’ can knock him down, Quillin, with 23 career KOs, can stop him. Quillin by TKO 9.”

James Slater, FightNews.com, (Quillin): “I like Quillin in a great fight. Jacobs is a class act, as is Quillin; I just think Quillin wants it more. Both can be hit, hurt and knocked down, and we will very possibly see a couple of knockdowns. I take Quillin to either get a points or a late stoppage win.”

Jason Gonzalez, Examiner.com, (Quillin): “I think Jacobs will eventually succumb to the pressure that Quillin will apply. Jacobs was knocked down early by and very light-hitting Sergio Mora. You would be remiss to not question the sturdiness of Jacob’s chin. Expect Quillin to test the chin of Jacobs early and win by TKO 7.”

Erika Fernandez, BlackSportsOnline.com, (Jacobs): “I think this will be a very close fight, but I feel that Jacobs has the better skill set and is hungrier for the victory. When you combine skill with hunger that is a deadly combination. I think it could go either way, but I am predicting Jacobs by eighth-round KO.”

Phil D. Jay, WorldBoxingNews.com, (Quillin): “I believe Jacobs v Quillin is a well-matched fight. Both can punch or box as and when needed so I see the fight being a close run thing. I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a split decision, but saying that, either fighter could also end the contest at a moment’s notice. Pushed on it, I’d have to give a slight edge to Quillin – but not without a scare or two. Quillin wins by split decision.”

(Boxers)

Chris Algieri, Former WBO Super Lightweight World Champion, (Quillin): “Tough fight to call. I believe whoever can assert their fight will ultimately take the victory. Danny needs to set a fast pace and box smart. Quillin will look to be explosive and bring the pressure. Too close to predict for me but will go with the more experienced man in Quillin to take it.”

Chris Arreola, Former Heavyweight Title Challenger, (Jacobs): “I think it’s a very good fight. I’m taking Jacobs in a very close fight. I just think Jacobs has more to prove and has had to overcome so much. I can’t wait to watch this fight!”

Andre Berto, Former WBC Welterweight World Champion, (No Pick): “Tough fight, it’s really a toss up. If it goes the distance I have Jacobs winning. If it doesn’t I have Quillin by knockout.”

Gabriel Bracero, Welterweight Contender from Brooklyn (Jacobs) – “I think they’re both good fighters and both strong. I think it’s going to come down to who’s smarter and whose sharper the night of the fight almost like an aggressive chess match the first person to make a mistake is going to pay.. I doubt that the fight goes the distance and they’re both going in there like they both have something to prove. I think Jacobs has more of an arsenal and will pull it off.”

Dominic Breazeale, 2012 U.S. Olympian & Undefeated Heavyweight, (Jacobs) – “My prediction is Danny Jacobs wins by way of KO in the 6 round. He’s a very humble, hard working man that deserves a great victory.”

Jermall Charlo, IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion, (Draw): “I hope the fight ends in a draw. I think it’s going to be a draw. Both guys are real strong and they both have good days and they both have bad days. But if someone wins, it will be whoever is in better shape.”

Anthony Dirrell, Former WBC Super Middleweight World Champion (Draw): “I hope it’s a draw, and I think it may be. Both fighters are my guys. Daniel and I went through similar health concerns that brought us closer, but Peter grew up in Grand Rapids. So I really just want to see a great fight and may the best man win. I know both guys respect each other and I hope that’ll always be the case.”

B.J. Flores, Cruiserweight Contender & NBC Boxing Analyst (No Pick): “This is a rough one. I really like Danny Jacobs’ boxing ability and his offensive tools and weapons. He has speed and power. The question is, if Danny is going to be able to stand there and take the hits from Pete when he lands. Whenever he does land, it will be interesting to see if Danny will come in with a game plan to neutralize Peter or if there is really going to be a battle of brooklyn head to head and fight thats the right fight for peter quillin not for danny jacobs. danny needs to take his opponent’s attributes and pete’s main thing he can do is punch, so the question is will Danny be able to take that away from Pete. It is a great opportunity for both and there can only be one king of the city.”

Tony Harrison, Super Welterweight Contender, (Jacobs): “I’m up in the air on this one, but I’m leaning towards Jacobs because he knows what adversity is and how to overcome it. He’s got nothing to los and he’s fighting in his hometown. He should have a chip on his shoulder.”

Amir Khan, Former Unified Super Lightweight World Champion, (Quillin): “I think Peter Quillin wins the fight. It’s a really exciting matchup between two guys fighting in their own backyard in Brooklyn. There is very little to choose between both fighters but if I had to opt for one guy it would be Quillin. I really respect Danny Jacob’s background and the way he has fought to become champion. He’s shown that he has the resilience, skill and punching power to go in and beat the best middleweights around but I think that Quillin is going to look to outwork him and use his movement to win a close points decision. Jacobs has the advantage in reach and height so that could cause Quillin problems especially if he gets his jab going and boxes from the outside. Nevertheless, it’s a really hard fight to call and there are arguments either way but there’s no doubt it’s going to be a great fight because neither guy will want to take a back step in their hometown.”

Erislandy Lara, WBA 154-Pound World Champion, (Quillin): “This is a great matchup between two young hungry fighters and I think it’s going to be a very close fight. With that being said, I’m picking ‘Kid Chocolate’ to win. He’s got Cuban blood running through his veins and has fought better competition. I’ll also be watching very closely because the winner could be one of my future opponents.”

Andy Lee, WBO Middleweight World Champion (No Pick): “I think it’s a close fight. Danny probably has the better boxing fundamentals and will look to outbox Peter. But Peter is certainly the bigger puncher and will look to land heavy punches while boxing with Danny. It’s an exciting fight hard and a hard one to call.”

Aron Martinez, Welterweight Contender, (Jacobs) – “I’ll go with Jacobs by decision. It will be a great fight though I could really see it going either way.”

Sergio Mora, Former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion, (Quillin) – “Both Jacobs & Quillin are big punchers with flawed technique. In the battle of power punching, Quillin’s size & better chin will hold up better, but If Jacobs decides to box & move I can see him outpointing Quillin. It’ll be a close fight either way. I’m picking Quillin by late stoppage.”

Victor Ortiz, Former WBC Welterweight World Champion, (No Pick): “May the best man win. It’s a great fight. Blue corner and red corner. My prediction is that one of those corners is going to win.”

Edwin Rodriguez, IBF No. 10 Light Heavyweight Contender, (Jacobs): “”Jacobs is a better boxer and just as good of a puncher as Quillin with sharper technical skills. It should be an entertaining fight but Jacobs will win by unanimous decision.”

Leo Santa Cruz, WBA Super World Featherweight Champion, (Quillin): “It’s going to be a hard fight for both of them, but Peter Quillin is stronger and he’s never been hurt, so I think he might take it. Quillin by seventh-round KO.”

Keith Thurman, WBA Welterweight World Champion, (Jacobs): “Knowing Jacobs and his amateur background I believe that he has the skills and the knowledge to pull away the victory, but Quillin is no slouch. He has tremendous strength and the ability to stop or hurt Danny at any moment. I’m truly looking forward to this fight. This is another great matchup for the fight fans this year.”

Sammy Vasquez, Undefeated Welterweight Contender, (Jacobs) – “This can go either way. Both have power and are good fighters with two different styles as Peter just comes forward but yet stays mid range and is good at it, Danny moves a lot and has good angles, I would give Danny the edge for his movement but he needs to stay busy and hopefully he doesn’t run into any punches but it’s a toss up to me.”

# # #

The first live fight is at 4:30 p.m. ET. Tickets start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

In a top undercard, non-televised match, undefeated Brooklyn female star and boxing sensation, Heather “The First Lady” Hardy (14-0) meets Noemi Bosques (10-3-2, 2 KO’s) in an eight-round super bantamweight rematch.

Preceding the Jacobs-Quillin all-Brooklyn battle on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, exciting, hard-hitting WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs), of Buenos Aires, Argentina, will defend against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs) in the 12-round semi-main.

On SHOWTIME EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT), popular former world champion and Long Island-native Chris Algieri (20-2, 8 KOs) will be opposed by Ecuador’s Erick Bone (16-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight bout, and promising undefeated Staten Island light heavyweight Marcus Browne faces Francisco Sierra (27-9-1, 24 KOs) of Tepic, Mexico, in an eight-rounder.

Daniel Jacobs vs. Peter Quillin is a 12-round middleweight championship fight taking place Saturday, December 5 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® co-feature, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar will face exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan Oquendo. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

PETER QUILLIN, JESUS CUELLAR, JONATHAN OQUENDO & CHRIS ALGIERI MEDIA WORKOUTS QUOTES

Peter Quillin
BROOKLYN (Nov. 25, 2015) – After hosting separate Coast-to-Coast media workouts in Miami and Marina del Rey, Calif., Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Jesus Cuellar, Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo and Chris Algieri spoke to the media about their respective showdowns next Saturday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, live on SHOWTIME.

Quillin, Oquendo and Algieri held their media workout at the 5th Street Gym in Miami while Cuellar hosted media at CMC Pro Boxing Gym in Marina del Rey.

Quillin headlines the Dec. 5 show when he takes on WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs. Cuellar and Oquendo square-off in a battle for Cuellar’s WBA Featherweight World Title while Algieri anchors SHOWTIME EXTREME coverage when he takes on Erick Bone. Coverage on SHOWTIME starts at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT while SHOWTIME EXTREME begins at 7 p.m. ET/PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50, not
including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
The Algieri fight is promoted in association with Star Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

PETER QUILLIN, Undefeated Former Middleweight World Champion

“This has been one of the most inspirational camps that I’ve had in my career. I’m around great people. I’m in the best shape of my life and as humble as possible. We’re going into this fight with nothing but confidence.

“I’m mentally and spiritually strong. I’ve been in 33 of these fights in my career. Every one of those guys has said they’re going to beat ‘Kid Chocolate’ but no one has beaten me. I’ve been in with a lot of different guys and I’m yet to be beat.

“I’m humble and blessed to be on this platform. I hope that I can inspire those who want to get to where I’m at. I’ve been in this place before. I’ve been at the top for a while and I’m going to stay here. My view of myself has never changed and that’s why I continue to win.

“It’s important for my journey and my team to get this win. We’ve put a lot of blood and sweat into this and it would mean everything for it to pay off with a victory. All this hard work has to go towards something.

“I don’t have a prediction for fight night. It’s up to Daniel Jacobs to determine that — because I’m here to win.”

JESUS CUELLAR, WBA Featherweight World Champion

“Training camp has been going great. I spent my first four weeks of camp in Argentina and then the past seven weeks I have been training in Los Angeles. My mindset in this camp hasn’t changed at all now that I am defending my title for the first time.

“Jonathan Oquendo comes from a lower division and has fought great competition. As long as I come in prepared for this fight, Oquendo is just another opponent and doesn’t bother me. I know what I am capable of accomplishing in this fight.

“I am blessed to be on such a prestigious card and I am honored to be a part of it. That’s why training camp has been so long, I must be completely prepared.

“There is no difference to me in winning the interim belt versus the title. When I first won the interim belt I considered myself a champion. To me, I’ve always been a champion.

“I didn’t expect to be fighting Jonathan Oquendo, but they mentioned my name and I want to fight the best fighters out there. I will fight any of the best fighters in the division.

“I know that there are five great champions in this division, and I will fight any of them.

“After the Oquendo fight I hope to fight one more time at 126 against a big-name fighter and then I will move up to 130 pounds. I will fight anyone in the featherweight division.

“The fact that I am the only current champion from Argentina doesn’t affect me. I knew that I would be a world champion since a young age and that’s why I train so hard.

“Growing up in Argentina was very difficult. I am one of eight siblings and the only one who is a boxer. My dad first introduced me to boxing because he was a professional fighter in Argentina. I have been in the gym since I was six years old.

“Since I won the title people have definitely begun to recognize me more in Argentina. I have been known since I was on the Argentinean National Team, but winning the title helped my recognition in the country.

“My nickname is ‘El Forastero’ because that is the name of my horse in Argentina. Besides boxing, I have always been interested in riding horses.”

JONATHAN OQUENDO, Featherweight Contender

“Cuellar is a very strong fighter. He’s a warrior in the ring, so I’m preparing myself for a very tough fight. I’m getting ready for his aggressive style.

“This is a great opportunity for me. Fighting in New York, with the great Puerto Rican fan base is wonderful and I am not going to disappoint them.

“I’ve been here in Florida for a month training and I’ll be heading up to New York on December 1. My plan is to go back to Puerto Rico after I win this fight and become a world champion.

“I’m very relaxed. I believe I am going to win this fight. I want to follow in the footsteps of the other great world champions from Puerto Rico.”

CHRIS ALGIERI, Former Super Lightweight World Champion

“Training camp has been fantastic. It’s been a productive five weeks with John David Jackson and we’re ready to roll into this fight. We’ve been working non-stop since the Amir Khan fight and I’m in great shape.

“Bone is a scrappy guy who will come in shape. This is his world title fight. He’s going to come as prepared as possible. I have to go out there and control the fight with my skill level and intelligence.

“I love fighting at Barclays Center. I’ve had some of my best performances there and I plan to do it again and keep it rolling into 2016.

“I’m going to go out there and show winning form. I’m going to use my experience to dominate the fight.”

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Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information, visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

DEC. 5 SHOWTIME BOXING ON SHO EXTREME® TO FEATURE CHRIS ALGIERI vs. ERICK BONE & UNDEFEATED LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT MARCUS BROWNE

Pacquiao_Venetian arrival_141118_005a
NEW YORK (Nov. 23, 2015) – SHOWTIME Sports® will televise the 10-round welterweight matchup between former world champion and Long Island-native Chris Algieri (20-2, 8 KOs) and Ecuador’s Erick Bone (16-2, 8 KOs) on SHOWTIME BOXING ON SHO EXTREME, Saturday, Dec. 5, live at 7 p.m. ET/PT from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

In the opening bout on SHO EXTREME, undefeated rising star and 2012 U.S. Olympian Marcus Browne (16-0, 12 KOs), of Staten Island, will take on experienced veteran Francisco Sierra (27-9-1, 24 KOs).

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME with WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs) defending his belt against exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs).

It all leads to the #BattleForBrooklyn when WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs (30-1, 27 KOs) defends his belt against undefeated former champion Peter Quillin (32-0-1, 23 KOs). Winner takes the belt and Brooklyn.

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @JesusCuellarBOX , @jonathanoquen; @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter

DANIEL JACOBS, YURI FOREMAN & HEATHER HARDY BROOKLYN MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

Daniel Jacobs
BROOKLYN (Nov. 17, 2015) – WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs, former world champion Yuri Foreman and undefeated super bantamweight contender Heather “The Heat” Hardy hosted a media workout Tuesday at Gleason’s Gym in their hometown of Brooklyn as they prepare for their respective battles on Saturday, Dec. 5 at Barclays Center.

Jacobs will defend his title against undefeated former champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® main event with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-feature, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs) will face exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs).

“ALL ACCESS: Jacobs vs. Quillin,” which chronicles the buildup to the all-Brooklyn showdown, premieres TONIGHT at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME. This clip features Jacobs as he watches The Approaching Storm marching band rehearse his ring walk music at the Brownsville Recreational Center: http://s.sho.com/1H7jcVC

As part of an undercard stacked with top NYC talent, Hardy will take on Noemi Bosques in an eight-round super bantamweight rematch of Hardy’s split decision victory over Bosques in May. Foreman returns to the ring after taking time off from boxing to become an ordained rabbi and will compete in an eight-round super welterweight contest.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“I think my skills are an advantage. Skills pay the bills. At the end of the day I have a lot of skills over ‘Kid Chocolate.’ Speed is one. He’s probably a bigger puncher and naturally heavier. With all that power, he has to get to me. He has to be able to land those shots.

“I’m going to adjust. I love knockouts. If I can end it with a knockout that’s what I’ll do. But I have to use my skills and my advantages.

“Quillin made weight in his last fight and he has a new strength coach so hopefully he makes weight for this one. I want him to be 110 percent so there are no excuses and we can give the fans a great fight.

“I’m at about 170 pounds right now, so I have 10 pounds to go. It’s mostly water so it’ll go quickly and we’ll be good by fight night.

“Time is the biggest experience you can have. It was almost all taken away from me. Mentally, I’m there. Physically, I’m there. It’s my time and I just have to be ready Dec. 5.

“I’ve been based out in Long Island and Brooklyn for training camp. I get to see Brooklyn every day. I’m in the streets and in-tuned with the people. Being from here means even more to me.

“It’s going to be an excellent, fan-friendly fight. I’ve heard lots of different opinions about who is going to win, and I like that. At the end of the day, it’s about us proving who will be the victor.

“I’ve been campaigning for this fight for a long time. I haven’t thought about who I want to go after if I win but I’m going to fight the best and work my way to being the best in the division.”

YURI FOREMAN

“Boxing is a very spiritual sport. We all have different paths. My faith keeps me centered and focused. You can be anyone. You can be a rabbi and still be fighting on the big stage at Barclays Center.

“It’s the same routine, (I’ve been) working hard since June and putting in a lot of hours in the gym. In terms of preparation, I’m always trying to push myself. When I get tired, I want to push myself even harder.

“As soon as you take it easy on yourself, that’s when you have a problem. Especially in boxing. I’ve never taken any shortcuts. If you take shortcuts in this sport you’re going to get hurt.

“Every single boxer is different as they progress, so I don’t focus on one look that a guy could give me. I focus on myself and work to be the best Yuri Foreman I can be.

“It’s very special to be fighting at Barclays Center because this is my home and I actually live just blocks away from the arena. I’m honored to be around so many great fighters who are on this card. Everyone can come together under one roof to watch a great sport.

“I’m staying positive about Dec. 5. I can’t predict because it’s boxing and anything can happen. It only takes one shot. I’m envisioning a successful night and an impressive victory for myself.”

HEATHER HARDY

“Holly Holm didn’t prove that Ronda Rousey couldn’t fight, because Ronda is a good fighter. She just proved that there are lots of good female fighters. There are good female fighters everywhere and hopefully we’ll get the recognition that there is a large pool of female athletes that are not recognized.

“It was a great fight last time. We have fan friendly styles and we gave them a show. She has a great presence in the ring so I’m happy to give her a rematch.

“I feel like I have to make a statement every time I go out there just to prove that women belong in the ring. It’s always a fight to prove that we belong. There are so many good female fighters out there.

“Brooklyn boxing has been so good to me and I’m so honored to be able to fight at Barclays Center. As soon as Quillin won that fight in December I started asking Lou DiBella to put me on the card and now we’re here.

“I think the main event is going to be a great fight. I can’t pick a winner. You can never count out a champion. A champion has a great heart and the fight can turn at any moment.”

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

VIDEO: Peter Quillin Explains Miami vs. New York Training In ALL ACCESS: Jacobs vs. Quillin

HEATHER HARDY FEATURED IN VISA/UNDER ARMOUR COMMERCIAL & “BREAK IT” CAMPAIGN

New York, NY (11/10/15) – Earlier this summer, Visa announced its partnership with sports apparel company Under Armour for its online payment program and a new ad campaign, “Break It.” Commercials for the partnership have now started to roll out and none other than DiBella Entertainment’s “First Lady,” undefeated Brooklyn female super bantamweight Heather “The Heat” Hardy (14-0, 3KO’s) is being featured in the campaign ads.

Hardy, who returns to the ring on Saturday, December 5th, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, on the undercard of the eagerly anticipated world middleweight championship showdown between Daniel Jacobs and Peter Quillin, is in talks with the sportswear company to officially become part of the Under Armour Women’s team that includes such superstar athletes and female figures as Gisele Bundchen, Lindsey Vonn, Misty Copeland, Brianna Cope and Kelley O’Hara.

“It is an honor to be included in the “Break It” campaign alongside the likes of Billie Jean King and so many other great and inspirational female athletes,” said Hardy. “Like her, I am still a part of this fight, working to break the barrier that women in my sport fight both inside and outside of the ring, day after day. Even today, as an undefeated 14-0 champion, ranked #1 in the world, I am still fighting to get the recognition that I so long for and deserve. I will continue to fight this fight until I see my dreams come true and challenge for a world title in a nationally televised appearance on a major TV network.”

Hardy is quickly closing in on her first world title opportunity, but first she must take care of business against a familiar foe, Noemi Bosques (10-3-2, 2KO’s) when the undefeated female star steps into the ring on December 5, in what will be her fourth consecutive performance at Barclays Center. Hardy and Bosques fought at the Brooklyn arena in May, with Hardy winning an entertaining eight-round split decision. Hardy felt there was no question that she won the fight, and is out to prove there is no doubt who is the better fighter when the two meet again on the 5th.

“I hate doing rematches because it’s so redundant and I already beat you. It was a split decision though, so in her mind she feels like she can come back and beat me. I didn’t want to deny her that, because we put on a great show for the fans. People at the fight knew I won the fight and that it was a clear decisive win, but when people see ‘split decision’ there are always questions that arise because she is such a good legitimate fighter. I’m giving her another chance.”

Below are the mission statements for both Under Armour Women and the “Break It” campaign. A link to the “Break It” commercial is below.

Under Armour Women
IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT OTHERS THINK.
IT’S WHAT YOU BELIEVE.
We’re not a campaign; not a season or snapshot.
Our story isn’t told through a press release or social post.
It’s dripping down our backs-each drop a declaration to prove
that the space between woman and athlete is no space at all.
We’re UA Women. And we WILL what we want.

Break It
“Break It” is no ordinary campaign. It will be an epic, high-octane tribute to female athletes over the past 80 years who broke expectations to achieve excellence. Created in partnership with Visa and Under Armour, our message aims to inspire the next generation of female athletes.

Commercial Link
http://youtu.be/koTj6AOAGdc

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/