Former world champion and pound-for-pound elite, Vasiliy Lomachenko stopped Masayoshi Nakatani in round nine of their scheduled 12-round lightweight bout at the Virgin Hotel in Las Vegas.

In round one, Lomachenko was cut on the middle of his forehead that was caused by a accidental headbutt. In round five, Lomachenko stepped around Nakatani and landed a left hand that put Nakatani on the deck.

Lomachenko was very accurate in his first fight back after losing his titles to Teofimo Lopez at the end of 2020. In round nine, Lomachenko landed a series of quick shots to the head that hurt Nakatani. Follow up hard combinations had the referee stop the fight at 1:48.

Lomachenko said, “I’m happy because I won. All the strategies that we developed with my team {worked}. I reached all my goals. I won and now I’m back on track.

“Everybody saw how I won this fight, and everybody is waiting for the rematch {with Lopez}, so let’s make a rematch.

“He has a fight in the future with {George} Kambosos, but how about after, in the beginning of next year? December, January, February, I am waiting.”

Added Top Rank chairman Bob Arum, “In case there was any doubt, Lomachenko proved he is still one of the very best fighters in the world. He is healthy and ready to fight any of the lightweights.”

Lomahenko, 134.6 lbs of Ukraine is 15-2 with 11 knockouts. Nakatani, 134.4 lbs of Osaka, JAP is 19-2.

Alimkhanuly stops Brant after 8

Janibek Alimkhanuly stopped former beltholder Rob Brant after round eight of their scheduled 10-round middleweight bout.

In round six, a short left sent Brant to a knee. Alimkhanuly dominated the fight and Brant was never in the contest

Alimkhanuly said, “Tonight, I showed the world what ‘Qazaq Style’ is about. Rob Brant is a former world champion for a reason, but I came here to showcase my full arsenal, and that’s what I did.

“I am highly ranked, and I have the confidence to fight any middleweight in the world. I had a great training camp with Buddy McGirt, and this was the result of all the hard work we did in camp.” 

.Alimkhanuly, 159.6 lbs of Kazakhstan is now 10-0 with six knockouts. Brant, 159.6 lbs of St, Paul, MN is 26-3.Rpb

Giovani Santillan remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Cecil McCalla in a welterweight bout.

Santillan landed 168 of 469 punches; McCalla landed 109 of 500.

Santillan, 147.6 lbs of San Diego, CA won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 27-0. McCalla, 147.4 lbs of Randallstown, MD is 23-4.

Luis Fernando Saavedra won a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Robert Rodriguez in a bantamweight fight.

Saavedra landed 92 of 296 punches; Rodriguez landed 86 of 290.

Saavedra, 118 lbs of Mexico won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55, and is now 9-6. Rodriguez, 118.8 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 9-1-1.

Floyd Diaz won a four-round unanimous decision over Jaime Josso in a bantamweight bout..

Diaz, 117.8 lbs of Las Vegas, won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 2-0. Josso, 116.2 lbs of Laredo, TX is 2-1.

Guido Vianello stopped Marlon Williams in round two of their four-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Vianello dropped Williams with a right to the body. Seconds later it was another right that put Williams down for a second time. When the bell rang to start round two, Williams did not look good, and the referee stopped the fight at the start of round two.

Vianello, 244 lbs of Rome, ITA is 8-0-1 with eight knockouts. Williams, 217.5 lbs of Lafayette, LA is 6-2.

Subaru Murata made a successful pro debut with a 2nd round stoppage over Kevin Monroy in a scheduled four-round junior featherweight contest.

In round two, Murata landed a booming left hook that sent Monroy to the deck, and the fight was stopped at 1:42.

Murata, 121.6 lbs of Tokyo, JAP is 1-0 with one knockout. Monroy, 119.8 lbs of Stockton, CA is 1-2.

DeMichael Harris remained perfect as he stopped Jonoton Hernan Godoy after round three of a scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Harris dropped Bodoy with a right to the temple. Later in the round, Body was dropped again with a right. At the end of the round, another right hand sent Bodoy down for a third time. The bout was stopped in the corner after the round.

Harris, 134.2 lbs of Cleveland is 4-0 with four knockouts. Godoy, 134.2 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 5-9.

LAS VEGAS (May 27, 2021) — Janibek Alimkhanuly, the middleweight phenom who once ruled the amateur ranks, is ready to bring his patented “Qazaq Style” to Las Vegas. Alimkhanuly, an unbeaten 28-year-old, will step up against former middleweight world champion Rob “Bravo” Brant in a 10-round showdown Saturday, June 26 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

Brant-Alimkhanuly will serve as the co-feature to the 12-round lightweight main event between former pound-for-pound king Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko and Japanese contender Masayoshi Nakatani.

Lomachenko-Nakatani and Brant-Alimkhanuly will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ (English and Spanish) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets priced at $400, $300, $200, $125 and $75 go on sale Friday, May 28 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased by visiting Etix.com.

“This is a fantastic doubleheader featuring a living legend in Lomachenko and a pair of middleweights who are closing in on a world title opportunity,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Janibek is relatively young in the pro ranks, but he has long wanted to fight the best available opposition. Rob Brant didn’t hesitate when offered this fight.”

Brant (26-2, 18 KOs) won the WBA middleweight belt in October 2018 with a one-sided decision over Ryota Murata, but in their rematch less than nine months later, Murata stopped Brant in a two-round barnburner. Brant returned last August and stopped Vitaliy Kopylenko in five rounds. Alimkhanuly (9-0, 7 KOs) dominated the field en route to winning the 2013 World Championships and represented Kazakhstan at the 2016 Olympics, where he advanced to the quarterfinals. A five-year pro, Alimkhanuly made his Top Rank debut in 2018 and most recently knocked out Gonzalo Coria in two rounds last October inside the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble.

“I am very excited to be back in the ring under the Top Rank banner against a formidable opponent in Janibek,” Brant said. “I am excited to showcase all the hard work I have put in with a victory on a stacked card.”

Alimkhanuly said, “For the fans who don’t know about me, you will be introduced to ‘Qazaq Style’ on June 26. Rob Brant is a former world champion who demands respect, but I am coming to Las Vegas to put on a spectacular show. My time has come. I will beat any of the middleweight champions. You will see it soon.”

About Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a reimagined and re-conceptualized casino resort. The property is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. The integrated resort intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture and features three hotel towers totaling over 1,500 Chambers and suites; the 60,000 sq. ft. Mohegan Sun Casino, operated by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment; a five-acre desert pool oasis including a multi-functional event lawn; live music and entertainment theater with 4,500 capacity; 24 Oxford showroom accommodating 650 guests; an exclusive portfolio of twelve food and beverage venues including Todd English’s Olives, Kris Yenbamroong’s Night + Market, the legendary Nobu, Michael and David Morton’s One Steakhouse, Kassi Beach House from restauranteur Nick Mathers, Casa Calavera by global hospitality company Hakkasan Group, the sports entertainment, daylife and nightlife venue Money, Baby! from Justin Massei and Mikis Troyan of Clive Collective, famous Afters Ice Cream, Pizza Forte by the Ferraro Family and signature Virgin Hotels restaurants and bars including The Kitchen at Commons Club, The Bar at Commons Club, The Shag Room and Funny Library Coffee Shop. The property is owned by JC Hospitality, LLC, in partnership with Juniper Capital Partners, Virgin Group, LiUNA, Fengate Asset Management, Dream and Orlando Development. The off-Strip playground is located at 4455 Paradise Road. For more information, visit www.virginhotelslv.com.

About Virgin Hotels
Virgin Hotels is a lifestyle hospitality brand that combines heartfelt service, straightforward value, and a seamless, personalized hotel experience with the track record of innovation and smart disruption that Sir Richard Branson’s global Virgin Group has pioneered for 50 years. Each property intermixes a passion for food and beverage with music and culture, fusing with the local landscape and providing a vibrant and inclusive environment for travelers and locals alike. Virgin Hotels Chicago – named the “#1 Hotel in the United States” in 2016 and “#1 Hotel in Chicago” in 2016, 2017, and 2020 by the Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards – Virgin Hotels Dallas – named the “#16 Hotel in Texas” – Virgin Hotels Nashville and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas are now open. Locations in New York, New Orleans, Miami, Edinburgh and Glasgow to follow. Virgin Hotels continues to explore hotel and office conversions and ground-up development in Boston, Los Angeles, Austin, Seattle, and London.

About Curio Collection by Hilton
Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of nearly 100 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts. Curio Collection properties offer travelers authentic, curated experiences through distinctly local offerings and elevated amenities, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Read the latest brand and hotel stories at newsroom.hilton.com/curio, and connect with Curio Collection on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 12.1 million subscribers.

Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $59.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $12.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $18.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).

Cleveland, Ohio – Willie Nelson (27-3-1) is looking to make a big impact in 2021. Like many fighters, Nelson’s 2020 campaign was aborted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Nelson has been a top contender in the super welterweight division the past several years but will campaign as a full fledged middleweight when he returns to the ring.  The middleweight division has produced some of the biggest fights in boxing in recent years and there are several fighters who interest Nelson.

“I just want to get in the mix. (Gennadiy) Golovkin is a guy I want to fight.  I think his style and mine would produce the type of fight that the fans would love.  I also am looking at guys like Rob Brant, Jaime Munguia, Ryota Murata, and Jermall Charlo.  I want to fight the top guys in the division. If I can’t get a champion right away get me a top contender that would put me in position to fight for a title,” Nelson explained.

The 33 year old has never backed down from a challenge and is no stranger to big fights having fought on HBO, Showtime and ESPN throughout his career.  He holds a big knockout victory over former champion Tony Harrison and also handed top prospects Yudel Johnson and John Jackson their first professional losses.  Nelson has also faced WBO middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade and former title challenger Vanes Martirosyan.

“I feel a lot stronger at 160.  The last couple fights was a struggle to get down in weight.  I haven’t taken much punishment and feel like I am in the prime of my career. I can’t wait to begin this next chapter of my career. I just need to get a chance with one of these big names to remind everyone what I am capable of,” said Nelson.

Joe Smith Jr. scored an emphatic 9th round stoppage over Eleider Alvarez in a scheduled 12-round light heavyweight bout at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas

In round four, Alvarez began to bleed from the nose. Smith dominated most of the action as he landed hard power shots throughout the contest.

In round nine, Smith landed a big right to the jaw that was followed up by a left that sent Alvarez through the ropes. He could not beat the count at 24 seconds.

Smith, 174.9 lbs of Long Island, NY is now 26-3 with 21 knockouts. Alvarez, 174.6 lbs of Montreal is 25-2.

Smith said, “Coming into this camp, I knew I had to work on my boxing. I wanted to be sharp, throw a lot of straight punches. I watched his fight with {Sergey} Kovalev, and Kovalev kind of set the way to beat him. So we watched that and worked off of it. I knew coming in today I had to box a little more because he’s got that great right hand. He caught me with it a couple times, but I can take a punch, too.
 
“Every time he hit me, I wanted to come and stop him in his tracks, and I did that. I stuck to my game plan, and it was a great fight.
 
“I feel this one is a big one. I really needed it. I wanted to prove I’m not just a knockout guy. I proved my boxing ability, too, and I showed that tonight.”

Brant Stops Kopylenko after 5!

Former middleweight belt-holder Rob Brant stopped Vitaliy Kopylenko after round five of their scheduled 10-round middleweight fight.

In round two, Kopylenko began to swell under his left eye. The eye got worse and was almost closed that forced the fight to be stopped after the 5th frame.

Brant, 161.1 lbs of St. Paul, MN is 26-2 with 18 knockouts. Kopylenko, lbs of The Ukraine is 28-3.

Brant said, “My punch output was high, but I felt like I threw a lot of quality shots, especially with a veteran like Vitaliy. I’m not going to try and pronounce his last name out of respect, but he’s a crafty veteran. He’s been around for a long time.
 
“I spent a lot of time in camp with them. It’s been a three-month camp with them. Between the advice they have given me and being around Terence Crawford and Jamel Herring, it teaches you to relax a little more.”

Rodriguez stops Laureano in 1

Julian Rodriguez stopped Anthony Laureano in the opening round of their scheduled 10-junior welterweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

In round one, Rodriguez landed a three-punch combination that put Laureano down. Rodriguez put Laureano down again with a hard right. Rodriguez sealed the deal as he landed four unanswered blows, and the fight was stopped as Laureano fell for a the 3rd time at 2:50.

Rodriguez, 141.5 lbs of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ is 20-0 with 13 knockouts. Laureano, 145.9 of East Hartford, CT is 13-1.

“Previous to the shoulder injury, I was more of a brawler,” Rodriguez said. “I was coming in with bigger shots, but once I noticed the arm wasn’t holding up in that way, it forced me to focus more on my footwork, using my jab, and more of a different style. Now I feel like I have all the tools.”

Collard Stops Williams in 2

Clay Collard racked up his 5th win of 2020 by stopping Maurice Williams in round two of a scheduled eight-round middleweight bout.

In round two, Collard dropped Williams with a straight right. Later in round, Collard landed a hard combination that made referee Tony Weeks stop the fight at 1:54.

Collard, 159.8 lbs of Burley, ID is 9-2-3 with four knockouts. Williams, 158.2 lbs of Oklahoma City, OK is 7-2.

“I’m just a fighter. I like getting out there as often as possible and entertaining the fans. I appreciate all the love and support from the fans, and I enjoy putting on a show for them,” Collard said. “Listen, I’ll fight as often as possible. I love fighting on these Top Rank shows, and I look forward to the next one. This has been quite the ride.”

Duke Ragan made a successful pro debut with a opening round stoppage over Luis Alvarado in a featherweight bout.

In round one, Ragan dropped Alvarado with a hard right hand. Alvarado got to his feet but the fight was stopped at 1:54.

Ragan, 125.5 lbs of Cincinnati, OH is 1-0 with one knockout. Alvarado, 126.8 lbs of Pasco, WA is 1-2.

Robert Rodriguez stopped Abel Soriano in the opening round of a scheduled six round fight featuring undefeated bantamweights.

In round one, Rodriguez dropped Soriano with a straight left to the body. Moments later, a barrage of punches that was finihed by a right hook made Soriano take a knee. Soriano was cut over his left eye, but that would not matter as another straight left put Soriano down for a 3rd and final time at 2:59.

Rodriguez, 119.7 lbs of Riverside, CA is 9-0-1 with five knockouts. Soriano, 119.8 lbs of Bellvue, NE is 10-1.

In a battle of undefeated junior welterweights, Israel Mercado won a six-round unanimous decision over Adrian Valdovinos.

Mercado, 136.6 lbs of Pomona, CA won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 8-0. Valdovinos, 137.2 lbs of Hanford, CA is 5-1-1.

Wendy Toussaint won a eight-round unanimous decision over Isaiah Jones in a middleweight fight.

Toussaint, 156.4 lbs of Huntington, NY won by scores of 80-72 and 79-73 twice, and is now 12-0. Jones, 157.2 lbs of Detroit, MI is 9-3.

LAS VEGAS (August 12, 2020) — Former middleweight world champion Rob “Bravo” Brant’s comeback begins in a Las Vegas “Bubble.” Brant, who lost his belt to Ryota Murata last July and had a January return scrapped due to a torn biceps, will fight Vitaliy Kopylenko in a 10-round middleweight tilt Saturday, August 22 from the MGM Grand Conference Center.
 
Brant-Kopylenko will serve as the co-feature to the Eleider-Alvarez-Joe Smith Jr. light heavyweight world title eliminator live and exclusively on ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET).
 
The undercard stream (ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET) features the return of boxing’s newest cult hero, “Cassius” Clay Collard, the former UFC fighter who is the leading contender for 2020 Prospect of the Year.
 
“We have a can’t-miss main event and the highly anticipated returns of Rob Brant and Clay Collard. What a night at the fights inside the ‘Bubble,’” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Rob is rejuvenated and ready to begin his ascent towards another world title. As for Clay, whenever he fights, he delivers.” 
 
Brant (25-2, 17 KOs) upset the odds in October 2018, defeating Murata by unanimous decision to win the WBA world title nearly one year removed from his loss to Jürgen Brähmer. He defended his world title once, then traveled to Murata’s home country of Japan intent on repeating the deed. Instead, Murata turned the tables, knocking out Brant in the second round of a slugfest that saw 354 punches thrown in 334 seconds of action. Following the Murata defeat, Brant hired a new trainer in Brian McIntyre, who is best known for his work with pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford and WBO junior lightweight world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring.
 
Kopylenko (28-2, 16 KOs), from Vasylkiv, Ukraine hopes to rebound from a May 2019 split decision loss to Steven Butler. Prior to the Butler loss, he’d won six consecutive bouts. A 12-year pro, Kopylenko advanced to the semifinals of the 2014 “Boxcino” middleweight tournament, which aired as part of the ESPN “Friday Night Fights” series.
 
“I have worked extremely hard, even though the current climate through the pandemic has been a bit hectic,” Brant said. “After physical therapy, I stayed focused on my nutrition, thanks to my wonderful wife, Tiffany, and began doing a lot of distance running until I was cleared to start punching again. I have been in camp for close to three months now and feel very strong and confident. Kopylenko is talented with a great body attack. I am very confident, but I respect his skill set and will prepare like this is a world title bout. I’m back!”
 
Collard (8-2-3, 3 KOs) will face Maurice Williams in a middleweight bout scheduled for eight or six rounds, his third “Bubble” appearance since June 18. Collard is 4-0 in 2020, including three victories over previously undefeated prospects. Williams (7-1, 3 KOs) has won five in a row since a fifth-round TKO loss to Dennis Knifechief in November 2016. He has since avenged his loss to Knifechief twice, including a third-round TKO victory.

“I just look at this as another fight. Nothing’s really changed other than the attention I’m getting,” Collard said. “I’m loving all of this. I’m just training and getting ready to do what I love.
 
“I didn’t know how I’d like fighting without fans and being quarantined, but I enjoy fighting for Top Rank in the ‘Bubble.’ I’m just blessed to be part of this experience.”

In other undercard action:

• In a 10-round duel of unbeaten junior welterweights, Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez (19-0, 12 KOs) will take on “Action” Anthony Laureano (13-0, 4 KOs). Rodriguez, a seven-year pro from Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., went 3-0 in 2019 following a nearly two-year layoff. 
   
• Star Boxing-promoted prospect Wendy Toussaint (11-0, 5 KOs) will take on “Bubble” veteran Isiah Jones (9-2, 3 KOs) in a middleweight fight scheduled for eight or six rounds. Jones, who went 1-1 inside the “Bubble” in June, is coming off a majority decision victory June 30 over the previously unbeaten Donte Stubbs.
   
• In scheduled six-round contests, Robert Rodriguez (8-0-1, 4 KOs) will fight Abel Soriano (10-0, 7 KOs) at bantamweight, while knockout artist Israel Mercado (7-0, 7 KOs) will battle fellow California native Adrian Valdovinos (5-0-1, 4 KOs) at junior welterweight.
   
• Former U.S. amateur star Duke Ragan, from Cincinnati, will make his long-awaited professional debut against Luis Alvarado (1-1) in a four-rounder at featherweight.

Use the hashtag #AlvarezSmith to join the conversation on social media. For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/espnringside.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Dec. 5, 2019)– Rob “Bravo” Brant’s quest to regain a world title will begin on the Boardwalk. Brant, a former middleweight world champion, will make his ring return against former super middleweight world title challenger Habib “Wild Hurricane” Ahmed Saturday, Jan 11 as the co-feature to the Jesse Hart-Joe Smith Jr. main event at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena (ESPN & streaming on the ESPN App (Spanish), 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT).

Brant is fighting for the first time losing his belt via second-round stoppage to Ryota Murata, the man he upset to win the WBA middleweight title in October 2018. Following the Murata defeat, Brant enlisted the services of trainer/manager Brian “BoMac” McIntyre and has been training alongside pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford, WBO junior lightweight world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring and former junior welterweight world champion Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker.

“I am excited to be back fighting under the Top Rank banner with a new team,” Brant said. “Training in Colorado Springs has shown me what it’s like to work with a coaching staff that have mastered their craft. I am expecting a tough fight with Ahmed, as he has proven to be a dangerous Ghanaian fighter. I’m confident my team will train me to showcase my talent. There hasn’t been a day that has gone by that I haven’t thought about regaining my title. None of that happens until I conquer the task at hand. I will reign again as a world champion.”

“This is a great opportunity to prove I am a middleweight to watch,” Ahmed said. “Super middleweight was not my natural weight, and I feel fresher and more powerful since moving down in weight. Rob Brant and his team made the wrong choice for a comeback opponent. I am coming to shock the boxing world and earn another world title shot.”

Brant (25-2, 17 KOs), from St. Paul, Minn., authored one of the biggest upsets of 2018 when he bested Murata over 12 scintillating rounds in Las Vegas. He threw 1,262 punches that evening and followed up his title-winning effort with a dominant 11^th-round TKO over Khasan Baysangurov in Hinckley, Minn. In July, he traveled to Osaka, Japan, and Murata flipped the script, engaging in a toe-to-toe battle that lasted 5 minutes, 34 seconds. Murata landed 64 power punches in the second round before referee Luis Pabon stopped the bout.

Ahmed (27-1-1, 18 KOs), from Accra, Ghana, is best known for his February 2018 title challenge against Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, which ended via sixth-round TKO defeat. He moved down to middleweight in May, notching a shutout eight-round decision over Juan De Angel in Biloxi, Miss. Ahmed has been training in Miami recently and has sparred with the likes of former world champion Andre Dirrell.

The ESPN+ undercard stream, which begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, will include the following bouts:

• The fighting Adorno brothers will once again appear on the same undercard. Older brother Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (14-0, 12 KOs) will face Hector Garcia (14-7-3, 8 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout, while 18-year-old Jeremy “Magic Hands” Adorno (3-0, 1 KO) will battle Artrimus Sartor (4-3, 1 KO) in a four-rounder at super bantamweight.
   
• South Jersey native Chris “Sandman” Thomas (13-1-1, 8 KOs) will fight for the sixth time as a pro in Atlantic City versus Samir Barbosa (37-16-3, 26 KOs) in a six-rounder at super middleweight.
   
• Shinard Bunch (4-1, 4 KOs), the fighting pride of Trenton, N.J., will take on Dennis Okoth (4-2-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round welterweight tilt. Bunch’s only defeat came via close decision in August to unbeaten prospect Paul Kroll.
   
• Heavyweight prospect Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (5-0, 4 KOs), who hails from South Philadelphia, will make his Atlantic City debut in a four-rounder against an opponent to be named.
   
• Xander Zayas (2-0, 2 KOs), the 17-year-old welterweight fresh off a first-round TKO Nov. 30 in Las Vegas, will see action in a four-rounder against Antonio Duarte (2-2, 0 KOs). Zayas, a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, won 11 national amateur titles before signing a pro contract with Top Rank at the age of 16. 

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Star Boxing, tickets priced at $100, $60, $40 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.ticketmaster.com and www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.  

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ grew quickly to 3.5 million subscribers in 18 months, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com.  It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ ­— all for just $12.99/month.

Ryota Murata regained the WBA Middleweight title with a 2nd round stoppage over the man who beat him Rob Brant in Osaka, Japan.

In round two, Murata hurt Brant with a body shot. The Japanese challenger jumped on Brant and landed a hard barrage of punches that put Brant on the canvas. With Brant clearly hurt, Murata landed a series of hard head shots as well as some body blows that forced referee Luis Pabon to stop the bout at 2:34.

Murata of Japan regained the title that he lost to Brant last October, and now ups his record to 15-2 with 12 knockouts. Brant of Minnesota is 25-2,

(July 10, 2019) — Before hometown hero and WBO No. 1 featherweight contender Shakur Stevenson headlines against Alberto Guevara at Newark’s Prudential Center on Saturday evening (ESPN and ESPN Deportes, 10:30 p.m. ET), boxing fans will be treated to a trio of world-class cards exclusively on ESPN+, the industry-leading sports streaming service.

Set your alarm clocks and smartphone alerts and get ready for a weekend fistic extravaganza.
FRIDAY (7 a.m. ET on ESPN+)
“Breakfast and Boxing” returns with one of the year’s most highly anticipated rematches, as Rob Brant will make the second defense of his WBA middleweight world title against the man he defeated to win the belt, Ryota Murata, at EDION Arena Osaka in Osaka, Japan.

Brant (25-1, 17 KOs) upset Murata last October in Las Vegas, snatching the belt in a thrilling performance that saw him throw 1,262 punches, the second-most ever recorded by CompuBox in a middleweight bout. Murata (14-2, 11 KOs), who became a sporting hero in Japan after capturing Olympic gold at the 2012 London Olympics, has not fought since. Brant, meanwhile, defended his belt in February on his home turf with an ESPN-televised 11th-round TKO over the previously undefeated Khasan Baysangurov in Hinckley, Minnesota.

In the co-feature, Ken “The Amazing Boy” Shiro will make the sixth defense of his WBC light flyweight title against Filipino challenger Jonathan Taconing.

Shiro (15-0, 8 KOs), Japan’s longest-reigning current world champion, won the title May 20, 2017, with a majority decision over Ganigan Lopez. He went 3-0 in 2018, including a second-round knockout over Lopez in May on a card that streamed on ESPN+. In his last fight, Dec. 30 in Tokyo, he won a near-shutout decision over Saul Juarez. Taconing (28-3-1, 22 KOs) will be making his third attempt at the WBC light flyweight title. He lost a technical decision to Kompayak Porpramook in 2012 and a unanimous decision to Ganigan Lopez in 2016.
FRIDAY (3 p.m. ET on ESPN+)
#MTKFightNight returns from Liverpool Olympia, as former world title challenger James “Jazza” Dickens will battle Australian contender Nathaniel May in a 10-rounder for the vacant IBF European featherweight title.

Dickens (26-3, 11 KOs) has won four in a row since back-to-back losses to Guillermo Rigondeaux and Thomas Patrick Ward. May (21-1, 12 KOs) has won 17 consecutive bouts and is coming off a first-round stoppage over Jose Miguel Tamayo on June 14 in Tijuana, Mexico.

In other streaming action, former middleweight and super middleweight world title challenger Martin Murray (37-5-1, 17 KOs) will face Rui Manuel Pavanito (10-8-1, 5 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight bout; former British amateur standout Natasha Jones (7-1, 5 KOs) will take on Bec Connolly (2-5, 0 KOs) in a six-rounder at lightweight; and former lightweight world champion Terry Flanagan (33-2, 13 KOs) will look to halt a two-bout skid against Jonas Segu (19-8-2, 6 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout.
SATURDAY (2:45 p.m. ET on ESPN+)
Queensberry Promotions presents a can’t-miss heavyweight doubleheader from the famed O2 Arena in London.

In the main event battle of unbeatens, Daniel “Dynamite” Dubois will fight Nathan Gorman in a scheduled 12-rounder for the vacant British title. Dubois (11-0, 10 KOs) has seven stoppages in two rounds or less and is coming off a spectacular fourth-round knockout April 27 over Richard Lartey on a card that streamed on ESPN+. Gorman (16-0, 11 KOs) has defeated former world title challengers in his last two bouts (Kevin Johnson and Razvan Cojanu) and is confident that he’ll pull off the upset.

In the 12-round co-feature, 2016 Olympic silver medalist Joe Joyce (9-0, 9 KOs) will take a seismic step up in class versus former world title challenger Bryant Jennings (24-3, 14 KOs). Joyce has extended his perfect KO record with knockout wins this year over former world title challenger Alexander Ustinov and former world champion Bermane Stiverne, while Jennings is hoping to rebound from a shocking January TKO loss to the undefeated Oscar Rivas. The winner will be in prime position to challenge for a world title in the near future..

About ESPN+

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

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

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

(April 24, 2019) — Rob “Bravo” Brant and Ryota Murata have a painful shared history. They waged a toe-to-toe battle last October in Las Vegas that saw Brant wrest the WBA middleweight title away from Murata via unanimous decision.

It’s time for the rematch.

Brant will make the second defense of that title against Murata Friday, July 12 at Edion Arena Osaka in Osaka, Japan. Murata, who captured a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, is one of his nation’s most revered sporting heroes and will look to gain vengeance in front of his home fans.

Promoted by Teiken Promotions, in association with Top Rank, Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing, U.S. broadcast information for this world championship event will be announced soon.

“I am very excited to be defending my title in Japan against Ryota Murata. Ever since I beat him for the belt, I have always known this fight was on the horizon,” Brant said. “I feel Murata is only at his full potential while in front of his people. This fight is me showing the world that I can bring my full potential with me wherever I go.”

“Rob Brant beat me fair and square, but I am ready to get revenge,” Murata said. “I want to show everyone the real Ryota Murata and regain my world title in spectacular fashion. I took some time off after my last fight, but I never lost my fighting desire. In fact, I am more motivated than ever.”

“There is no doubt that the rematch with Murata will be a terrific fight filled with tension, excitement and anticipation in front of the supportive Japanese crowd,” Cohen said. “We expect Rob to perform even better the second time around and look forward to another impressive performance. It certainly won’t be easy, but we are confident that the cream will once again rise to the top.”

Brant (25-1, 17 KOs), a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, is unbeaten when fighting as a middleweight. He entered the first Murata fight as a sizable underdog, but his activity told the story. Brant threw 1,262 punches — the second-most ever recorded by CompuBox in a middleweight fight — to overwhelm Murata. For his first title defense, in front of a standing-room-only crowd at the Grand Casino in Hinckley, Minnesota, Brant knocked out the previously unbeaten Khasan Baysangurov in the 11th round.

Murata (14-2, 11 KOs) had a fast rise through the pro ranks after turning pro in August 2013. He won the first 12 bouts of his career before losing a highly controversial split decision to Hassan N’Dam in May 2017 for the vacant WBA middleweight title. He exacted revenge five months later, stopping N’Dam in seven rounds to win the title. Murata made one successful title defense before running into the Brant buzzsaw last October.

Use the hashtag #BrantMurata2 to join the conversation on social media.

Rob Brant retained the WBA Middleweight title with a 11th round stoppage over Khasahn Baysangurov in font of a sold-out crowd of 2,225 at the Grand Casino in Hinckley, Minnesota

In round two, Brant dropped Baysangurov with a right hand. In round three, Brant began to swell around his right eye.

In round seven, Baysangurov was bleeding heavily from his nose. In round 11, Brant dropped Baysangurov with a hard right hand. Baysangurov got to his feet, but ate a big combination and the fight was stopped at 2:33.

Brant of St. Paul. MN is 25-1 with 17 knockouts. Baysangurov of Ukraine is 17-1.

“Today, I feel like a true champion. I was happy with my performance. I had some cramps later in the fight, but this shows I can carry my power later in fights.”

“Middleweight is one of the deepest divisions in boxing. There are fights to be made. We just have to keep pushing forward. Canelo Alvarez is recognized by many as the champion at middleweight, and I’d love a fight with him down the road.”

“{Baysangurov} had a good jab. I started a little sloppy, and my trainer (Eddie Mustafa Muhammad) told me in the corner to relax. I waited for the opportunity to come, and it came in the 11th round.”

Mikaela Mayer remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision Yareli Larios in a super featherweight bout.

Mayer won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 10-0. Larios of Mexico is 13-2-1.

“It’s more about strategy in the pros. I was relaxed and took my time in there” Mayer said. “We knew she was going to be tough. She has that Hispanic blood in her.

“I think I’m ready for more belts. I want those belts this year.”

Joshua Greer Jr won his 17th straight fight and notched his 7th consecutive stoppage as he took out Giovanni Escaner in the 8th frame of their scheduled 10 round bantamweight bout.

It was Eascaner who struck first as he dropped Greer with a right on the ropes just as the bell sounded to end the 3rd round.

In round eight, Greer landed a perfect right the body that sent Escaner to the canvas for the 10-count at 2:33

Greer of Chicago is 20-1-1 with 12 knockouts. Escaner of The Philippines is 19-4.\

“I had to wait for him to soften up, but I did what I had to do,” Greer said. “It’s all a learning experience for me. But I’m from Chicago. I had to go take it.”

Tyler Howard won an eight-round split decision over Cristian Olivas in a middleweight bout.

Howard won two cards 79-73 and 77-75 while Olivas took a card 77-75.

Howard of Crpssvill, TN 17-0. Olivas of Mexicali, MEX is 16-4.

“This was my first time going eight rounds,” Howard said. “I felt like I prepared well for this fight. Olivas came to fight. All I can do is go back to camp and continue to work harder and be ready for my next fight. This experience is going to help me moving forward.”

Lennox Allen remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Derrick Webster in a super middleweight fight.

Allen dropped Webster with a right hook in round in round three.

Allen of New York won by scores of 98-91 twice and 97-92 and is now 22-0-1. Webster of Glassboro, NJ is 28-2.

Ismail Muwendo won a six-round unanimous decision over Hevinsom Herrera in a lightweight bout.

Muwendo won by scores of 60-54 on cards and is now 21-1. Herreraa of Colombia is 24-16-1

Steven Nelson remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Felipe Romero in a light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Romero scored a dubious knockdown with a right hand. In round three, Nelson returned the favor by dropping Romero with a combo to the body.

Nelson of Omaha, NEB won by scores of 59-54 twice and 58-54, and is now 13-0. Romero of Mexico is 20-17-1.

“He’s a tough guy who can take a good punch. That’s why we picked him,” Nelson said. “I had him hurt a few times, but we got the job done.”

In a battle of junior welterweights, Joe James won a four-round unanimous decision over Demetrius Wilson.

In round three, James dropped Wilson with a double jab.

James won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 4-0. Wilson is 2-11.

Rob Brant 158.6 lbs vs. Khasan Baysangurov 158.8 lbs
(Brant’s WBA Middleweight world title – 12 Rounds)

Joshua Greer Jr. 117.8 lbs vs. Giovanni Escaner 116.2 lbs
(Greer’s WBC Continental Americas Bantamweight title – 10 Rounds)

Mikaela Mayer 129.6 lbs vs. Yareli Larios 129.6 lbs
(Mayer’s NABF Super Featherweight title – 8 Rounds)

ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET)

Tyler Howard 159.8 lbs vs. Cristian Olivas 159.6 lbs
(Middleweight – 8 Rounds)

Lennox Allen 168 lbs vs. Derrick Webster 165.2 lbs
(vacant WBA Gold super middleweight tite – 10 Rounds)

Ismail Muwendo 134.6 lbs vs. Hevinson Herrera 133.8 lbs
(Lightweight – 8/6 Rounds)

Steven Nelson 172.4 lbs vs. Felipe Romero 179 lbs
(Light Heavyweight – 8/6 Rounds)

Joe James 139.4 lbs vs. Demetrius Wilson *
(Super Lightweight – 4 Rounds)
* Wilson to weigh in later

Swing Bouts (ESPN+, Time Permitting)

Cem Kilic 167.4 lbs vs. Zach Kelley 165.2 lbs
(Super Middleweight – 6 Rounds)

Ramiro Hernandez 126.8 lbs vs. Gavino Guaman 125.6 lbs
(Featherweight – 6 Rounds)

Kevin Cruz 134.2 lbs vs. Rondale Hubbert 139 lbs
(Lightweight – 8/6 Rounds)

Albert Bell 133 lbs vs. Edward Kakembo 132.6 lbs
(Lightweight – 8/6 Rounds)
For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtag #BrantKhasan to join the conversation on social media.

HINCKLEY, Minn. (Jan. 14, 2019) — Rob “Bravo” Brant upset the odds to win a world title. For title defense number one, he’s returning to his favorite stomping grounds. Brant, a native of St. Paul, Minn., will defend his WBA middleweight title against the unbeaten Khasan Baysangurov on Friday, Feb. 15 at Grand Casino Hinckley.

Brant, who stunned Japanese superstar Ryota Murata Oct. 20 via unanimous decision to win the title, will be making his 12th professional appearance at Grand Casino Hinckley. Rounding out the ESPN-televised tripleheader will be rising bantamweight star Joshua Greer Jr. defending his WBC Continental Americas belt in a 10-rounder versus Giovanni “Little Giant” Escaner and female fighting sensation Mikaela Mayer making the second defense of her NABF super featherweight crown in an eight-rounder versus Yareli Larios.

Brant-Baysangurov, Greer-Escaner, and Mayer-Larios will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 9 p.m. ET. The entire undercard will stream live beginning at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing, tickets priced at $50 (reserved) and $35 (general admission) go on sale Saturday, Jan 19 at 10 a.m. CT and can be purchased at any Grand Casino MN box office, online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000.

“Becoming a world champion was a dream come true. It’s extra special that my first title defense will be in my home state of Minnesota in front of my fans,” Brant said. “I fully understand the task in front of me, as it is harder to keep a title than it is to win one. My opponent is very talented and certainly deserving of his world ranking. I know that Khasan has weaknesses, and I feel we can exploit them. I am already working hard in a full training camp in Las Vegas in order to be prepared for top-level competition. I am confident and ready.”

“This is going to be a special night for Rob. He’s returning home as a world champion, and there is no place he’d rather make the first defense of his WBA middleweight title than Minnesota,” said Greg Cohen, Brant’s co-promoter. “I am looking forward to Rob putting on another virtuoso performance on ESPN.”

“I am very proud and happy to receive this great opportunity to showcase my skills against the reigning WBA middleweight world champion,” Baysangurov said. “I won’t disappoint my team and will give everything it takes to become the new champion. Of course, Rob Brant is a good boxer and a great champion, but now is my time to shine.”

Brant (24-1, 16 KOs) turned pro in 2012 following a standout amateur career that included a bronze medal at the 2012 U.S. National Championships (178 pounds). He moved down to middleweight to begin his pro career and soon became a gate attraction in Minnesota. He was riding a four-bout knockout streak in 2017 when he moved up in weight to enter the World Boxing Super Series super middleweight tournament. Brant was bested via unanimous decision by former light heavyweight world champion Jürgen Brähmer in the tournament quarterfinals. Following the Brähmer defeat, Brant returned to the middleweight division, knocking out Colby Courter in the opening round on March 9 of last year at Grand Casino Hinckley.

Against Murata, at the Park Theater in Las Vegas, Brant threw an astounding 1,262 punches, snatching the title from the established champion in one of the year’s great performances. He returns to Hinckley intent on continuing his streaking momentum against Baysangurov (17-0, 7 KOs), a 21-year-old who turned pro at 16 years of age. A former Russian amateur standout, Baysangurov captured the vacant WBA Intercontinental middleweight belt last May with a 12-round decision win against Guido Pitto. He defended the belt in October in Kiev, Ukraine, with a unanimous decision victory versus Paul Valenzuela Jr.

Greer (19-1-1, 11 KOs), the 24-year-old Chicago native with the big smile and the bigger punch, is aiming to extend his knockout streak to seven. He went 4-0 in 2018, including a third-round stoppage of Giovanni Delgado on Sept. 28. In his last outing, Dec. 14 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Greer captured the vacant WBC Continental Americas belt when Daniel Lozano remained on his stool following the seventh round. Greer, as always, will have a custom pillow on hand, which is unveiled after he knocks out his opponent. Greer debuted the pillow after he knocked out James Smith in what was a 2017 Knockout of the Year contender. Escaner (19-3, 13 KOs), a 28-year-old Filipino contender, has won eight consecutive fights and will be making his American debut.

“I just want to show the fans complete excellence. I’m a true gem in the sport, and I want everyone to keep following my career because you guys haven’t seen anything yet,” Greer said. “Don’t blink because I’m coming to Minnesota to put on another great show. After I get another knockout, everyone is going to be calling me Mr. ESPN!”

Mayer (9-0, 4 KOs) represented the United States at the 2016 Rio Olympics and is one of the leading names in female boxing less than two years since making her professional debut. She won the NABF belt with a unanimous decision over Vanessa Bradford Oct. 13 on the Terence Crawford-Jose Benavidez Jr. undercard in Omaha, Neb. In her last but, Dec. 14 in Corpus Christi, Texas, she shut out Calixta Salgado over eight rounds. Larios (13-1-1, 3 KOs), a native of Guadalajara, Mexico, is a seasoned pro who has gone eight or more rounds six times.

“2018 was an amazing year for me and for women’s boxing,” Mayer said. “I won my first belt and fought six times. There’s a lot more to my boxing style that the world has yet to see, and this is the year I display my full range of skills. I’m ready to turn people into fans starting with my first fight of 2019, live on ESPN where women’s boxing belongs!”

The ESPN+ undercard will feature a slew of top contenders and prospects.

Unbeaten light heavyweight prospect Steve “So Cold” Nelson (12-0, 10 KOs), a stablemate of pound-for-pound elite Terence “Bud” Crawford, will battle Felipe Romero (20-16-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Ismail “Sharp Shooter” Muwendo (20-1, 12 KOs) will face Colombian puncher Hevinson Herrera (24-15-1, 18 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight contest.

One the sport’s top young middleweights, Tyler Howard (16-0, 11 KOs), will seek to extend his knockout streak to three versus Cristian Olivas (16-3, 13 KOs).

Lightweight prospect Albert Bell (13-0, 5 KOs) will take on the durable Edward Kakembo (10-6, 3 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Kevin Cruz (8-1, 5 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first pro loss against Minneapolis native Rondale Hubbert (12-8-1 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight fight.

Unbeaten super middleweight Cem Kilic (12-0, 7 KOs) will see action in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named.

Lorenzo Simpson (1-0, 1 KO), an 18-year-old Baltimore native, will showcase his talents in a six-round middleweight bout.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtag #BrantKhasan to follow the action on social media.

(Nov. 20, 2018) — Top Rank has signed WBA middleweight world champion Rob “Bravo” Brant to a multi-year co-promotional agreement with Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing, Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum announced today.

Brant, from St. Paul, Minn., defeated then-champion Ryota Murata via unanimous decision on Oct. 20 in Las Vegas, throwing a mind-boggling 1,262 punches. Brant (24-1, 16 KOs) is unbeaten as a middleweight and looking to unify the division.

Brant’s first fight under this new agreement will be announced shortly.

“I am very excited to be a part of one of the oldest and most prestigious promotions in the sport of boxing,” Brant said. “I look forward to reaching my maximum potential and maintaining my status as a world champion under Top Rank. This is a dream come true, and I will not take this opportunity for granted.”

“We are delighted to have entered into a co-promotion agreement with Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing to exhibit future fights for middleweight champion Rob Brant,” Arum said. “Rob is a tremendous talent, he comes with very high character, and he will be a future superstar in the United States.”

“I couldn’t be more excited about our partnership with Top Rank,” Cohen said. “They are the gold standard in our business, and with the platform that ESPN provides, Rob Brant will become a household name. We can’t wait to get started.”

“For years, as Rob developed in Minnesota, we always believed he has had the necessary intangibles to become one of the top names in this sport,” said Cory Rapacz, CEO of Rapacz Boxing. “His performance on Oct. 20 against Murata showed he has world-class talent, and now we’re confident this new partnership with the sport’s biggest platform, Top Rank on ESPN, will give him the opportunity to reach the highest levels of stardom. This is a fantastic deal for everyone involved.”

Brant, a six-year pro, turned pro following a decorated amateur career that included gold medals at the 2009 U.S. National Championships and 2010 National Golden Gloves Championships. A 178-pounder for much of his amateur career, Brant moved down to middleweight when he transitioned to the paid ranks. He won the first 22 bouts of his career before moving up to super middleweight to participate in the World Boxing Super Series, where he lost a unanimous decision to hometown favorite Juergen Braehmer in Schwerin, Germany.

He immediately returned to the more comfortable confines of the middleweight division. In March, he knocked out Colby Courter in the opening round to set up his title challenge versus Murata. Armed with a new trainer in his corner, former light heavyweight world champion Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Brant put forth a combination punching tour de force, immediately stamping himself as an elite middleweight.

Brand-new WBA World Middleweight Champion Rob “Bravo” Brant says he goes everywhere with his new best friend. “The belt hasn’t left my side since they handed it to me,” laughs the personable new champion from Saint Paul, Minnesota.

28-year-old Brant (24-1, 16 KOs) says he went into his main-event showdown with then champion Ryota Murata (14-2, 11 KOs), last Saturday night at the Park MGM in Las Vegas (and live on ESPN+), unaware he was such a heavy underdog.

“I really did go into it very confident I would win, just off the preparations we did,” said Brant, who was having his first fight with former world champion Eddie Mustafa Muhammad as his trainer. “I tried to stay away from news when I was in training, so I had no idea how big of an underdog I was. We had a post-fight press conference and that was when I found out. When reporters were asking about it. I had no idea. It wouldn’t have deterred me anyway if I had known.”

Despite the doubts of the bookmakers, Brant cruised to a lopsided 12-round unanimous decision over 2012 Olympic gold medalist Murata, with two judges giving him all but one round, the other all but two. Brant busted up the now ex-champion with a piston-like jab and peppered him with combinations throughout what turned out to be a surprisingly dominant performance.

According to CompuBox statistics, Brant landed 356 of 1,262 punches (28 percent) while Murata connected with just 180 of 774 (23 percent).

“As a pro, he hasn’t seen what I gave him,” explained Brant. We knew he had a hard time with hand speed and jabs. He locks up when punches are being thrown, so we made sure we kept him backing up and worried about the jab and punches in general. The more he thinks about my shots, the less he throws. We knew we’d be able to keep him on his back foot. Eddie Mustafa is very strict on letting the hands go. We were big on the cardio in training and keeping the punch rate high. And when you’re keeping the jab out there all the time, other shots open up.”

Brant says at fight’s end, he wasn’t worried about the decision going his way.

“I’ve always felt that judges’ decisions are out of my hands. I was nervous about it, you don’t know until they announce your name, but I knew I had done what I felt was my best work. I had a great sense of pride and relief knowing I put it all out there and did everything possible to win. But now that I have won, it’s kind of like having giant weight lifted off my shoulders. It’s definitely my biggest accomplishment ever, winning in Vegas against a former Olympic gold medallist. It’s everything I ever worked for. It was the best feeling in the world. I knew how much I worked for that. Boxing gives back what you put into it and I put my everything into it.”

Although Brant and promoters GCP reportedly agreed to a rematch before the fight, the new champion says he’s not sure the now ex-champion wants it.

“All the talk of a rematch has been from his promoters. I haven’t heard him say anything about it. He might be a little discouraged right now. I’m not saying he won’t be able to come back, but I don’t think he wants it right now. I’ll just go on to bigger and better in the division. Once you win a title, there are no more easy fights. Until you are the undisputed king, you’re always taking steps up in class in every fight.”

Brant says he took a week off but is now back in the gym and ready for what comes next.

“I’m just waiting for the next assignment to work toward. I want to know who my next opponent is as soon as possible, so I can go to sleep at night thinking of what I’m going to do. Watching film and looking for flaws and things I can exploit. That’s when I‘m really the most comfortable. When I have an assignment. It’ll be a big name eventually. I’m there now. So I’m just waiting to see who is next for me to spend all my time watching that person.”

Brant gives a big piece of the credit for his upset victory to the only man to ever beat him. Last October, he stepped up in weight to participate in the World Boxing Super Series as a super middleweight and lost a one-sided decision to former light heavyweight champion Juergen Braehmer in Germany.

“The thought of what happened against Braehmer was always in the background. That’s what really motivated me to be the best I could in this fight. I knew I was better than I was in that fight. I had to prove it by doing what I’m capable of. The loss to Braehmer will be in the back of my mind forever. I won’t let anyone else do that to me again. I will never forget that loss and I’ve been a better fighter from that point forward.”

Rob Brant won the WBA Middleweight championship with a 12-round unanimous decision over reigning champion Ryota Murata at the Park Theatre in Las Vegas.

In round one, Murata had swelling around the left eye. Brant out worked and Murata and continued to bust Murata up with hard combinations. Murata fought back, but it seemed every time Murata would land two shots, Brant would coe back with four. Brant took just about every round as he took the fight 119-109 twice and 118-110.

Brant, 158.4 lbs of St. Paul, MN is 24-1. Murata, 159.2 lbs of Nura, JAP is 14-2.

“This is one of the best moments of my life,” Brant said. “I wasn’t thinking about punch output. I was thinking about winning,

“This was a great middleweight championship fight,” said Top Rank CEO Bob Arum. “Both fighters showed tremendous heart. Congratulations to the new champion. He deserved the win.”

Maxim Dadashev won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Antonio DeMarco in a junior welterweight bout.

Dadashev, 138.6 lbs of Oxnard, CA won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94, and is now 12-0. DeMarco, 139.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 33-7-1.

“This was a great learning experience for me,” Dadashev said. “DeMarco is a true champion, and he fought with great heart and determination.”

Esquiva Falcao remained perfect by winning a 10 round unanimous decision over Guido Pitto in a middleweight bout.

Falcao, 160.4 lbs of Vitoria, BRA won by scores of 100-90 on all cards, and is now 22-0. Pitto, 158.6 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 25-6-2.

Michael Conlan stopped Nicola Cipoletta in round seven of a scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

Conland landed a flurry of punches, and the bout was stopped at 1:55.

Conlan, 126.4 lbs of Dublin, IRE is 7-0 with six knockouts. Cipoletta, 125.4 lbs of Napoli, ITA is 14-7-2.

“When you fight a guy who is negative and trying to survive, those guys are the hardest guys to look good against,” Conlan said. “He was just negative. Now, I want real opponents. I want top 10, top 15 opponents. These are the guys who are going to make me look good. These are the guys who are going to bring out the best of my technical ability. When you see guys trying to survive, it’s a lot easier to survive than fight it out.”

Vladimir Nikitin won a six-round unanimous decision over Clay Burns in a featherweight bout.

Scores were 59-55 on all cards for Nikitin, 126.6 lbs of Oxnard, CA and is now 2-0. Burns, 1256 lbs of Alexandra, LA is 5-5-2.

Good looking prospect Joseph Adorno won a six-round unanimous decision over Kevin Cruz in a lightweight bout.

Adorno scored a knockdown with a left hand in the final round, and he went on to win by scores of 59-53 twice and 58-54.

Adorno, 132.8 lbs of Allentown, PA went the distance for the 1st time and is 10-0. Cruz, 132.2 lbs of Waterloo, IA is 8-1.

Adorno said: “I felt great going the distance for the first time. I wasn’t tired at all and got the job done. I am very happy with my performance.”

Adam Lopez stopped Hector Ambriz in the eighth and final round of their featherweight bout.

The time of the finish was 1:29 for Lopez, 126.4 lbs of Glendale, CA who is now 11-1 with five knockouts. Ambriz, 126.4 lbs of Mexico is 12-8-2.

David Kaminsky stopped Noah LaCoste in round two of their scheduled four-round middleweight bout.

Kaminsky dropped LaCoste in each round, and referee Kenny Bayless stopped the bout 40 seconds into round two.

Kaminsky, 159 lbs of Los Angles, CA is 3-0 with two knockouts. LaCoste, 158.5 lbs of Houma, LA is 2-1.

* Kaminsky scored knockdown with uppercut in round 1. LaCoste stopped on his feet in the second.

• Ryota Murata 159.2 lbs vs. Rob Brant 158.4 lbs
(Murata’s WBA Middleweight world title – 12 Rounds)

• Maxim Dadashev 138.6 lbs vs. Antonio DeMarco 139.6 lbs
(Dadashev’s NABF Super Lightweight title – 10 Rounds)

ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET)

• Esquiva Falcao 160.4 lbs vs. Guido Pitto 158.6 lbs
(Middleweight – 10 Rounds)

• Michael Conlan 126.4 lbs vs. Nicola Cipolletta 125.4 lbs
(Featherweight – 8 Rounds)

• Fazliddin Gaibnazarov 139.8 lbs vs. Wilberth Lopez 138.2 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

• Joseph Adorno 132.8 lbs vs. Kevin Cruz 132.2 lbs
(Lightweight – 6 Rounds)

• Vladimir Nikitin 126.6. lbs vs. Clay Burns 125.6 lbs
(Featherweight- 6 Rounds)

• Adam Lopez 126.4 lbs vs. Hector Ambriz 126.4 lbs
(Featherweight – 8 Rounds)

• David Kaminsky 159 lbs vs. Noah LaCoste 158.5 lbs
(Middleweight – 4 Rounds)

Tickets are priced at $204, $104, $54 and $29, not including taxes and handling fees, and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets or online at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets also can be purchased through the MGM Resorts International Call Center at 877-795-2564.

Use the hashtag #MurataBrant to join the conversation on social media.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN. ESPN+ offers fans two exclusives, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 18, 2018) – There has been a lot of talk about future big-name opponents for WBA middleweight champion Ryota Murata. For now, he’s focused on the task at hand, Saturday’s title defense against Rob “Bravo” Brant at MGM’s Park Theater in Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, Maxim “Mad Max” Dadashev will defend the NABF super lightweight belt against former world champion Antonio DeMarco.

This is what the fighters had to say about Saturday’s card during the final press conference.

Ryota Murata

About potential fights with GGG or Canelo Alvarez

“Everything will happen after the result of this fight, so I’m not thinking ahead. I am looking forward to getting the victory on Saturday.”

“I had a great training camp, and I am going to put everything out in the ring that I trained with. I am very prepared and very confident.”

“I am very thankful for this opportunity, especially to Bob Arum and everyone at Top Rank and the team over at Teiken Promotions.”

Rob Brant

“We knew that Murata would be the challenge of a lifetime being an Olympic gold medalist as well as being a world champion. I knew I’d have to be here early working with {trainer} Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. We’re training specifically for Murata. I feel good. I feel confident.”

On fighting at 160 after fighting at 168 for a brief period

“I feel like this is my natural weight. I feel a lot better at 160 pounds. I did my entire amateur career at 178 pounds at light heavyweight. Then I decided I had to lay off the McDonald’s a little bit and actually train. My body is actually very comfortable at 160, and that’s where I am going to stay at. And it’s where I am going to win my titles.”

Maxim Dadashev

“My opponent is a former WBC champion. Of course, he has really good experience and is a smart fighter. That’s it. But I’m also strong.”

“I am working hard in the gym and am prepared for this fight. I had a good camp and {would like to fight for a world title} as soon as possible.”

Antonio DeMarco

“I’ve been through this before and I’ve seen this before. It’s truly a pleasure to be here.”

“I want to thank Maxim and his management team for taking this fight. I feel good about it. I’m at peace. I’m very comfortable, and I want to become a world champion again.”

Michael Conlan

“It’s my fourth fight of the year, and I plan to have another one after this. It’s a pleasure to be here in Las Vegas. It’s my first time fighting in probably the fight capital of the world at the minute.”

On training with Adam Booth

“It’s been fantastic with Adam. I think now the pen has finally dropped. Everything seems to be falling into place. I know fighters say it all the time, and I get sick of hearing it myself, but it’s definitely the best training camp I’ve had. I feel like I’m becoming more of a complete fighter, and that’s what I want to show on Saturday night. I want to show how advanced my style is now.”

On Olympic nemesis Vladimir Nikitin being on the card

“It would be fantastic to face Vladimir in the professional ranks. I have no ill feelings towards Vladimir. I know it wasn’t his fault, but revenge is something that I want. I have no anger towards him, but I will {fight} him with enjoyment, and I do believe I’ll get the victory when we face each other.”

Joseph Adorno

“They say that this will be the toughest challenge of my career because I will be facing an undefeated fighter and he has a lot of knockouts, just like myself. I am ready for the challenge and I want the bell to sound to continue representing Puerto Rico with a lot of pride.”

ESPN+, 10:30 p.m. ET

Ryota Murata vs. Rob Brant, 12 rounds, WBA Middleweight World Championship

Maxim Dadshev vs. Antonio DeMarco, 10 rounds, NABF Super Lightweight Title

ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET

Esquiva Falcao vs. Guido Pitto, 10 rounds, Middleweight

Michael Conlan vs. Nicola Cipolletta, 8 rounds, Featherweight

Fazliddin Gaibnazarov vs. Wilberth Lopez , 8 rounds, Super Lightweight

Adam Lopez vs. Hector Ambriz, 8 rounds, Featherweight

Joseph Adorno vs. Kevin Cruz, 6 rounds, Lightweight

Vladimir Nikitin vs. Clay Burns, 6 rounds, Featherweight

David Kaminsky vs. Noah LaCoste, 4 rounds, Middleweight

Murata-Brant and Dadashev-DeMarco will stream live in the United States beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+ —the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

Tickets are priced at $204, $104, $54 and $29, not including taxes and handling fees, and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets or online at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets also can be purchased through the MGM Resorts International Call Center at 877-795-2564.

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 17, 2018) – Ryota Murata, one of Japan’s most revered sporting heroes, is ready to make his debut as a Las Vegas headliner.

Murata (14-1, 11 KOs), a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, will defend his WBA middleweight title against Rob “Bravo” Brant (23-1, 16 KOs), Saturday at MGM’s Park Theater. In the co-feature, Maxim “Mad Max” Dadashev (11-0, 10 KOs) will defend the NABF super lightweight belt in a 10-rounder versus former world champion Antonio DeMarco (33-6-1, 24 KOs).

Murata-Brant and Dadashev-DeMarco will stream live in the United States beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+ —the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

The entire undercard will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 7 p.m. ET and includes the return of Michael “Mick” Conlan (8-0, 5 KOs), the Irish sensation who will face Nicola Cipolletta (14-6-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight bout. Also on the card is Conlan’s 2016 Olympic nemesis Vladimir Nikitin (1-0), who will take on Clay Burns (5-4-2, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder at featherweight. It was Nikitin who won a controversial decision over Conlan in the 2016 Olympic quarterfinals.

Tickets are priced at $204, $104, $54 and $29, not including taxes and handling fees, and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets or online at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets also can be purchased through the MGM Resorts International Call Center at 877-795-2564.

Murata and Brant worked out Wednesday at the Top Rank Gym in front of a large contingent of Japanese and American media, This is what they had to say.

Ryota Murata

“I am honored to be here in Las Vegas. I want to show everyone a great fight. Brant is a great fighter, and beating him would mean a lot for my career.”

“I want everyone to watch on ESPN+ to see a great fight. I’m going to take what I learned in the gym and show it in the ring.”

“I am happy to be a headliner, but there is more to come. I think there are bigger and better fights for me. This is just a start.”

“I would like to fight Canelo Alvarez, but without the Mexican beef!”

On a potential Gennady Golovkin fight if he beats Brant

“It would be nice if it happens. It would be especially nice because it would be good for boxing.”

“Yes, I think it would be a war. I think it would be a real exciting fight.”

Rob Brant

“I have worked so hard for this opportunity. It’s a dream come true to fight for a world title, and it’s in the Mecca of Boxing, Las Vegas. It doesn’t get better than that.”

“I have the utmost respect for Murata as a fighter, but this is my time to shine.”

“This is definitely the best I’ve ever felt. I’ve been in Las Vegas for eight weeks preparing for this fight. Murata is a champion and an Olympic gold medalist, so I know I will have to be at my best.”

“We are prepared for everything because we know anything can happen when you fight a great champion like Murata. It will be a good battle, and I am going in there with bad intentions.”
About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN. ESPN+ offers fans two exclusives, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 4, 2018) – The Conlan Revolution has hit New York City, Australia, Arizona, Chicago, and Northern Ireland. Now, Michael “Mick” Conlan is set to conquer the Las Vegas Strip. Conlan, the talk of the 2016 Summer Olympics, will take on Nicola Cipolletta (14-6-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight bout Saturday, Oct. 20 at Park Theater at Park MGM on the undercard of Ryota Murata’s WBA middleweight title defense against Rob Brant (10:30 p.m. ET).

Conlan vs. Cipolletta will be the featured attraction on the undercard broadcast, which will begin at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

“It has always been a dream of mine to fight in Las Vegas, and that’s becoming a reality thanks to Top Rank,” Conlan said. “The Conlan Revolution is rolling into Sin City and ready to turn it green!”

Also appearing on the undercard will be Conlan’s Olympic nemesis, Vladimir Nikitin (1-0), who turned pro in July with a six-round decision victory against Edward Kakembo. Nikitin won a highly disputed decision over Conlan in the Olympic quarterfinals, sparking Conlan to lash out against the AIBA-appointed judges with his memorable middle finger salute. Nikitin will face Clay Burns (5-4-2, 0 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight contest.

As for Conlan (8-0, 5 KOs), he has been active since making his professional debut in front of a sold-out Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden crowd on St. Patrick’s Day in 2017. In his last bout, June 30 in his hometown of Belfast, he dominated former world title challenger Adeilson Dos Santos via eight-round decision. Cipolletta, from Naples, Italy, is a former Italian featherweight champion who is coming off a second-round TKO victory against Jozsef Ajtai.

The undercard broadcast will also include:
Top middleweight contender and 2012 Olympic silver medalist Esquiva Falcao (21-0, 15 KOs) will clash with Guido Pitto (25-5-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

Fazliddin Gaibnazarov (5-0, 2 KOs), a 2016 Olympic gold medalist, will face Wilberth Lopez (23-9, 15 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight bout.

Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (9-0, 9 KOs) will take on Kevin Cruz (8-0, 5 KOs) in a six-round lightweight fight. Adorno has seven first-round knockouts on his ledger.

In an eight-rounder, featherweight prospect Adam Lopez (10-1, 4 KOs) will fight Hector Ambriz (12-7-2, 6 KOs).

David Kaminsky (2-0, 1 KO) looks to make it three in a row against Noah LaCoste (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-rounder at middleweight.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Teiken Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions, tickets are sale on now. Priced at $204, $104, $54 and $29, not including taxes and handling fees, tickets can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets or online at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets also can be purchased through the MGM Resorts International Call Center at 877-795-2564.

To subscribe to ESPN+, visit plus.espn.com.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN. ESPN+ offers fans two exclusive, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

About Park Theater
The 5,200-seat Park Theater, with its cutting-edge audio and visual technology, provides artists of diverse talents with a dynamic space to create one-of-a-kind productions where every seat allows guests to feel up close and personal. From comedy shows and live concerts, to sporting events and award shows, the theater is specially designed to transform seamlessly for any occasion. For more Park Theater show and ticket information, visit ParkTheaterLV.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Park MGM
Park MGM is the newest destination on the Las Vegas Strip, offering an intimate resort experience on a grand scale.?A partnership between MGM Resorts International and New York-based Sydell Group, Park MGM features 2,700 guest rooms and suites, casually elegant design and a remarkable culinary program including Hogsalt Hospitality’s renowned Bavette’s Steakhouse; Juniper Cocktail Lounge; and South-of-France inspired restaurant Primrose. Park Theater, the resort’s entertainment destination, is a 5,200-seat venue home to special engagements by Bruno Mars, Cher and Lady Gaga, making her debut at the end of 2018. Park MGM is located in the heart of The Strip, next to the entertainment and dining neighborhood created by The Park and the 20,000-seat T-Mobile Arena. Additional developments at Park MGM will be announced as the resort experience unfolds throughout 2018. Park MGM is owned by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information and reservations, visit ParkMGM.com, call toll-free at 888-529-4828 or follow on Facebook or Twitter.