LAS VEGAS – July 18, 2023 – Top lightweight contender and Mexico City-native Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz has vowed to make his country proud and solidify his status in the star-studded 135-pound division when he faces unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator that serves as the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford co-main event live on SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“I am ready to put Mexico on top once again and show that I am meant to go up against the best,” said Cruz. “I’m making sure that I’m working harder and smarter and making the most of everything I do in the gym. It’s not just about how hard you hit, you gotta be smart and have your punches connect in the way that you meant them to land all along.

“It may sound cliche, but it truly is about dedication, hard work and discipline. Being just a regular fighter is taking the easy way out. Saying no to a glass of water or to being with friends is hard. What we do is beautiful, but it’s hard. If you want to be an elite athlete, you have to learn how to live with sacrifice.”

Coming from a family full of professional boxers, including his father and grandfather, Cruz is no secret to the sacrifices his chosen profession requires at the highest level. Although he laments the time missed with his wife and children, it acts as motivation for him to perform at his best.

“The hardest thing I ever had to do was that I had to tell my wife and kids ‘today, I can’t take you for ice cream,’” said Cruz. “I’m fortunate that I train close to them, but I still miss a lot. At the end of the day, it only makes it more important that I make the most of these sacrifices and fight to my full ability. I fight at my best because of the love and support I receive from my family.”

The 25-year-old Cruz has become a fan-favorite amongst the passionate Mexican fans due to his all-action style that calls back to many of boxing’s most memorable Mexican champions and contenders. Although he’s competed at lightweight throughout his career that dates back to 2015, he has no plans of leaving the division and hopes to continue to develop his relationship with fans against the weight class’s other stars.

“I’m totally focused on staying at 135-pounds because it’s where I feel strongest and most comfortable,” said Cruz. “I just want to give everyone watching a great show. I’ve made a connection with the fans because I showed that I’m not afraid to fight the best. I have no fear, just resolve.”

Since giving unbeaten boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis perhaps the toughest test of his career in their December 2021 clash, Cruz has set his sights on a blockbuster rematch against the WBA Lightweight Title holder. However, his plans are set beyond just Davis, with eyes on clearing out the entire division before settling a grudge match against Ryan Garcia.

“I want the American fans to know me as well as the Mexican fans, so I have to go up against the very best,” said Cruz. “First, I want that rematch with Gervonta Davis no matter what. After that, I want to face Devin Haney and Vasyl Lomachenko. Then I’d like to face another contender in this division, and finally move up and take out Ryan Garcia.”

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

By Norm Frauenheim –

It’s an unlikely partnership in an unforgiving business for blood and bucks. Maybe some legacy, too. Mostly, it’s still a surprise, an opening bell few expected to ever hear.

Yet, Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr. are moving closer to their July 29 pay-per-view date, a welterweight bout as intriguing as any in years.

It’s no secret that stakes are enormous for both fighters and a battered business. The real impact hinges on what happens in the long-awaited Showtime bout at Las Vegas T-Mobile Arena.

Narrow odds continue to slightly favor Crawford. But bet on just about anything in a fight few foresaw in the wake of failed negotiations and a lot of finger-pointing.

That’s all gone. At least, there was no rancor apparent in the last appearance of Crawford and Spence in a virtual news conference Wednesday.

They were businessmen – Crawford talking in a measured, unemotional tone and Spence wearing fashionable glasses that made him look like a CEO in command of a corporate board room.

For now, mutual respect is evident. There were rhetorical shots, but only at pundits and social media’s noisy army. In a trash-talking game, however, respect doesn’t do much for ticket sales.

The April 22nd box-office and Pay-Per-View success (1.2 million buys) of Tank Davis-versus-Ryan Garcia was proof of that. The talk was better than the fight – Davis, a TKO winner over Garcia, who has more words than skills.

As of Friday, Crawford-Spence tickets were still available in every category for a fight announced on May 22. Early sales were reportedly brisk, but most of the tickets – priced from $519 to $2,000 — went to brokers, who are betting that interest in Crawford-Spence will heat up.

Guess here, it will. But there might be lingering skepticism from fans, especially the casual crowd which hasn’t forgotten the abortive talks last fall. Negotiations were an on-again, off-again roller coaster. Misleading and often inaccurate reports from the media didn’t help.

Repeatedly, you could hear fans and pundits say they’d believe it only when both are gloved up, in the ring and echoes of an opening bell fill the arena.

Fair enough. But believe it. This one is on the horizon, approaching like a summer storm.

From this corner, it’s refreshing not to hear, ad nauseam, the trash talk. Spence and Crawford respect each other for documented reasons. They’re both unbeaten and both accomplished in ways that Ryan Garcia was not.

Trash talk is language used by the frightened or the foolish. Crawford and Spence are neither. Crawford, pragmatic and always edgy, summed up the build-up to July 29.

Yes, he said, there’s mutual respect. Yes, he said, Spence is an important business partner at this, a late stage in Crawford’s brilliant career. But don’t be misled, he said.

“We’re not friends on fight night, absolutely,’’ Crawford said. “I’m friends with Shawn Porter. You saw what happened. I knocked him out (10^th-round TKO, September 2021).

“I’m friends with Ray Beltran. You saw what happened. I beat him (unanimous decision, November 2014).

“I’m not friends on fight night with somebody who is there to do whatever to take me down, take my life.’’

That’s business.

Crawford-Spence undercard update

Emerging Jesus Ramos Jr, an unbeaten junior-middleweight from Casa Grande AZ and probably the best prospect from Arizona since David Benavidez, withdrew from the undercard because of a hand injury. He was scheduled to fight Sergio Garcia.

With the withdrawal, Nonito Donaire-versus-Alexandro Santiago was added to the card. It had been scheduled for July 15. Donaire and Santiago will fight for a vacant bantamweight title.

Meanwhile, Garcia stays on the card in a fight against prospect Yoenis Tellez instead of Ramos.

LAS VEGAS – July 12, 2023 – Future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire will battle Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship on the SHOWTIME PPV undercard for Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford on Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions events from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the telecast opener, top prospect Yoenis Tellez, who is guided by renowned trainer Ronnie Shields will take on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction. Garcia was originally scheduled to face Jesus Ramos Jr. However Ramos was forced to withdraw due to a hand injury.

The Donaire vs. Santiago fight, which was originally scheduled to take place July 15, will be the second fight of the pay-per-view. The previously announced Gurgen Hovhannisyan vs. Viktor Faust bout was removed after Faust was forced to withdraw because of a back injury.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

One of the sport’s most accomplished active fighters, Donaire (42-7, 28 KOs) has captured titles at flyweight, bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight. He will look to make another run at bantamweight after capturing the title with a May 2021 knockout of Nordine Oubaali and eventually a defeat to Naoya Inoue in their June 2022 rematch. Representing his native Talibon, Bohol, Philippines, Donaire’s previous campaign at bantamweight began in 2018 by upsetting then unbeaten champion Ryan Burnett in his hometown to capture a title once again, before eventually dropping the belt in the 2019 Fight of the Year in his first matchup against Inoue.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to become a world champion once again on an already historic night for boxing,” said Donaire. “I’m thankful to my team for this opportunity and I’m going to do everything I can to make the most of it. We’re working really hard on defense and being as fast as possible. It’s been an amazing camp and I can’t wait to get in the ring.”

A native of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, Santiago (27-3-5, 14 KOs) will compete for a bantamweight crown for the first time in his career on July 15, as he enters this fight on a three-bout winning streak since a majority decision loss to Gary Antonio Russell in November 2021. The 27-year-old had previously fought for a 115-pound championship in September 2018, battling Jerwin Ancajas to a split-draw. Santiago most recently avenged one of the draws on his record, as he stopped Antonio Nieves in seven rounds last October.

“I have been waiting five years to get another world title opportunity, so another two weeks is nothing,” said Santiago. “I’m still focused and working hard. The objective and target is still the same. I’m very fortunate and would like to thank my team for this great opportunity to be part of such an amazing event on July 29.”

The 23-year-old Tellez (5-0, 4 KOs) is the latest young standout from boxing-rich Cuba looking to make a splash early in the pro ranks. A native of Santiago de Cuba, Tellez now trains in Stafford, Texas with Shields and first turned pro in June 2020. Tellez has already scored two victories in 2023, including most recently earning a shutout unanimous decision over Cameron Krael in May.

“I’m super excited to be a part of this huge event,” said Tellez. “Spence vs. Crawford is the best fight in boxing and it is a blessing to be part of this big night and facing a legit top-10 contender in Sergio Garcia. I look forward to boxing fans seeing a new star of the super welterweight division. I can’t wait to shine under the bright lights!”

Garcia (34-2, 14 KOs) returned to the ring in April to defeat Ricardo Sebastian Cabana before he steps into the ring for his third stateside bout on July 29. His only career defeats have come via decision as he dropped a December 2021 bout against top contender Sebastian Fundora and an April 2022 clash against former world champion Tony Harrison. Fighting out of Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain, the 30-year-old has competed professionally since 2012. He ascended the rankings by traveling to the U.K. to defeat then unbeaten Ted Cheeseman on his home soil in 2019 and followed that up with a triumph over veteran contender Sergey Rabchenko.

“I’m very thankful to my team for keeping me on this exceptional card,” said Garcia. “I’m very happy to be able to show my boxing skills to the whole world. It is very unfortunate what happened to Rams, but these things happen in boxing. Now I’m facing Tellez, who is at a much higher level than his record shows. He’s a great fighter and I’m going to give it my all to beat him. I know that a good performance on a big card in the U.S. will put me right on the doorstep of a world title.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

LAS VEGAS – July 12, 2023 – Undefeated boxing superstars and pound-for-pound greats Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford previewed their showdown for the undisputed welterweight championship during a virtual press conference on Wednesday as the WBC, WBA and IBF champion Spence and WBO champion Crawford clash on Saturday, July 29 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see Spence and Crawford vie to become the first undisputed welterweight world champion in the four-belt era and likely emerge as the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say on Wednesday:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“There’s no backing down for either one of us. Me and Terence put together is just a recipe for a great fight. We both come to win and now we have everything on the line. I know we’re gonna put on a great performance.

“I came out here to Las Vegas three weeks early to train and acclimate. We’ve been 100% focused and training hard. We’re going over the game plan and making sure we’re on point and not leaving any stone unturned. This is a legacy fight and a fight people are gonna talk about for a long time.

“This fight does a lot for the sport of boxing. I hope a lot of the best fighters are ready to face each other. This is an old school fight with the two best fighters in the world. It’s rare that you get that. We’re two old school fighters who are going to go in there and give it their all.

“This fight boils down to grit, determination and focus. It’s about who’s body and mind can withstand the most punishment, but also make it through different highs and lows of the fight. Whoever can impose their style on their opponent will win the fight.

“There have been fighters way more gifted than Terence who have lost in boxing. They can say what they want about him, but I know my capabilities. I know my mindset when I step into the ring. I believe that I can beat any fighter.

“Everyone in Derrick James’ gym pushes each other. Even if it’s indirectly. We watch each other work and naturally you’re gonna try to work a little harder and make sure you’re really working, because another top fighter is watching you and trying to see how you work. We’re feeding off each other and Derrick does a great job giving us all our own time slot.

“The level of opposition you face definitely matters. I’ve fought guys at the top when they really had something to lose. But once we get in the ring, it’s really all about abilities. It’s about dictating the pace and implementing the game plan.

“I didn’t want to risk anything that would jeopardize this fight. I was willing to sacrifice to wait on Terence. Everyone knows the magnitude of this fight and what this means for our legacy. I put the ego to the side.”

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“This fight puts a stamp on everything that I’ve accomplished in this sport. People have tried to discredit me for this and that and have been calling for this fight. This solidifies everything. This is the fight that boxing needs.

“Training camp is going great and not much has changed. We’re firm believers in if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ So we’ve been steady.

“This fight boils down to who prepared the best and then on fight night, who’s on their A+ game. That’s what it comes down to.

“I’m not focusing on a potential rematch. I plan on winning the first match. The rematch is not in my mind. I’m focused on the job at hand right now.

“I’m not worried about any size difference. Look at Jeff Horn and Shawn Porter. Even Jose Benavidez Jr. was a big welterweight. This is nothing new. I was always the smaller guy, even when I was fighting at 140-pounds. The bigger they are, the harder they fall.

“Everyone Errol faced had a loss and had something already taken from them. He faced guys who already knew how to lose. I take a fighters’ belt and their ‘0’. Those fighters are never the same after that face me.  

“The objective is always to get the win first and foremost. But if you’ve followed our careers, you know that Errol and I are always in exciting fights. There’s no doubt in my mind that this fight will be more of the same.

“With the magnitude and the stage and just everything that’s surrounding this fight, yes I needed Errol. But legacy-wise, I had already accomplished a lot and was already a Hall of Famer. This win is the cherry on top for me.

“Errol and I got on the phone to get the biggest fight in boxing made. We both understood the assignment and had the same goals and dreams in mind. We came together to make sure we were both mature enough to get the fight made.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

By Norm Frauenheim –

Terence Crawford-Errol Spence Jr, a fascinating fight embedded in the public imagination for years, is generating lots of ideas about how it will unfold, yet no idea about how it will end.

That much was evident Thursday in a virtual news conference featuring Shawn Porter and Kell Brook — retired welterweights beaten by both — and respected trainers, Virgil Hunter and Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

The imagined scenarios were unlimited. So, too, was the insight. In the end, however, there was only one agreement. 

With opening bell on July 29 just a few weeks away, Porter, Brook, Hunter and Edwards agreed – for now — not to pick a winner.

“I don’t have a pick,’’ said Porter, a former two-time 147-pound champion who lost a 10^th-round TKO to Crawford in November 2021 and a split-decision to Spence in September 2019. “I don’t know who is going to win this fight.

“This is what boxing truly is.’’

Truly, true.

It’s why Crawford-Spence has been at the top of the public’s most-wanted list for so long. It also explains why there was so much frustration last fall at news that negotiations had fallen apart.

But the frustration is gone, supplanted by the fascination. There haven’t been too many high-level, high-wire fights during an era ruled by Floyd Mayweather’s risk-to-reward ratio. The formula mitigated the risk, much of the drama and most of the compelling reasons to watch.

Too many fights were easy to pick. Crawford-Spence isn’t.

“I don’t have a pick right now,’’ said Edwards, who was in the corner for Caleb Plant in a tense scorecard loss to super-middleweight contender David Benavidez in March. “That’s the honest truth. I think we’re going to have the Fight of the Century. ‘’

The Century is still young. It’s only 23-years old, still enough time for fights forever etched into history. There was Diego Corrales’ 10^th-round TKO of Jose Luis Castillo in a 2005 epic.

About 21 months ago, there was one that will be remembered as wild, even by the heavyweight division’s extreme standards. Tyson Fury’s crazy, up-and-down 11^th-round KO of Deontay Wilder was buckle-your-seatbelt crazy  

The last 23 years are not a lost era. Still, they are dogged by the one fight seen by more people than any other. Mayweather’s 2015 decision over Manny Pacquiao, also in a welterweight bout, fell short. Before opening bell, It was much hyped and it’s been much derided ever since.

There’s a suggestion – perhaps a prayer — Crawford-Spence can deliver a performance that will close the book on that lingering disappointment.

From Breadman’s perspective, both Spence and Crawford have qualities that remind him of a more celebrated era. He foresees a performance that won’t disappoint.

“I don’t see either guy choking up under the bright lights,’’ he said. “Both guys seem to have that clutch gene. 

“…Every time, I’ve seen one of these guys’ backs against the wall, they up the ante, raise the stakes.’’

Breadman says the fight will make fans want more. That means a rematch. But Breadman meant more than just that.

“I think the casual fan might say: ‘There’s not enough action,’ ‘’ Breadman said. “But for the purist, you’ll see some great, great stuff. It will become a classic.

“I think this one is one I wish was 15 rounds, because I think both guys are 15-round fighters and would have flourished in a 15-round era.’’

The winner? It depends.

Depends, perhaps, on how the bigger Spence rehydrates the week before opening bell at Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena, says Hunter, who was Andre Ward’s trainer.

Depends, maybe, on how Crawford adjusts to a blistering desert summer in Nevada after training at altitude in the Colorado mountains, Hunter also says.

“It’s going to come down to very small margin,’’ said Brook, a former 147-pound champion stopped by Crawford in a fourth-round TKO in November 2020 and knocked out by Spence in the 11^th round of a punishing bout in May 2017.

The calculating Crawford, Brook says, possesses a precision that can result in dangerous accuracy. It has a snap, Brook says of a Crawford punch that lands like a whip.

“Very sharp and snapping puncher,’’ said Brook, who won a majority over to Porter in August 2014.

Spence is more fundamental. Once Spence starts to move forward, he can run you over, he says.

“A grinding and thumping kind of power,’’ said Brook, who has felt Crawford’s dynamic snap and Spence’s grinding thump.

“That’s the difference,” Brook added.

Maybe, the drama, too. For now, that’s the only pick.

Valdez-Navarrete Update

 Emerging lightweight Raymond “Danger” Muratalla hopes to take another step in his swift ascent against fellow Mexican Diego Torres Aug. 12 on the ESPN-televised card featuring Oscar Valdez Jr.-versus-Emanuel Navarrete for a junior-lightweight title at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale AZ, Top Rank announced this week.

Muratalla (18-0, 15 KOs) calls himself Danger, a nickname that reflects his unbeaten record, which includes 12 stoppages in his last 13 bouts. He’s also Busy.

He faces an equally dangerous Torres (17-0, 16 KOs) in his third fight in 2023.

 “I couldn’t be more excited to get back in that ring on such a great card,’’ Muratalla said. “I can’t wait to put on another great performance for the fans. I believe this is my time now, and I will continue to show the hard work that’s being put in.”

Muratalla has the momentum. Torres hopes to halt it.

“Fighting against another undefeated fighter is something that I was looking for,’’ Torres said. “It is my way of showing that I am made for this, and I am here to achieve great things.

“I am not afraid. I’m going to give it my all and come out with a great victory.”

Muratalla-Torres has been added to a card also scheduled to include  Richard Torrez Jr. (5-0, 5 KOs), a silver medalist for the U.S. at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, against Willie Jake Jr. (11-3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round heavyweight bout. 

LAS VEGAS – July 6, 2023 – As fight week nears for the long-anticipated Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford SHOWTIME PPV clash, former champions and common Spence and Crawford opponents Shawn Porter and Kell Brook, plus top trainers Virgil Hunter and Stephen “Breadman” Edwards, previewed the matchup during a virtual media roundtable before Spence and Crawford meet on Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Porter dropped a 2019 Fight of the Year to Spence, before losing the final fight of his career to Crawford in November 2021. Brook faced Spence in May 2017 as Spence traveled to the U.K. to capture his first career world title, while Brook came stateside to face Crawford in November 2020, losing by fourth-round TKO.

Here is what Porter, Brook, Hunter and Edwards had to say on Thursday:

SHAWN PORTER, Former Two-Time Welterweight Champion

“I’m excited. I was at church last night and they were talking about this fight. This is the biggest fight and I’m excited about it.

“The one narrative is Terence Crawford can do more things in the ring. He has more tools in his toolbox. Errol Spence is the most fundamentally sound boxer in the world. We have never been able to see him pull out everything that he has. Terence has been in the ring with guys who have done different things. From an X’s and O’s standpoint, it’s all a matter of, ‘What are you going to do this round?’ Both fighters have the ability to make adjustments, be aggressive, fight off the back foot, and counterpunch. This is an outstanding fight because they both have an A+ in every box. We are going to see three different strategies from each fighter, maybe even four or five different game plans. Both of these guys have to have both in order to win the fight.

“The calculated pressure from Errol has to be something that he sustains for the entire fight. He needs to continue putting on the pressure and body punching. If you’re Terence Crawford, you have to get to Errol’s body and make him uncomfortable. Errol has a really tight defense and keeps his hands at home. If he’s not punching, his hands are up. With a guy like that, you have to find openings. Those openings are usually there when that punch is being released. Punch when he’s punching. Be accurate and be that sharpshooter. We’re not saying anything that either of these fighters can’t do. That is why this is such a great fight. It’s hard to find the timing, it’s hard to find the distance. It’s hard to be confident and do it. It’s going to be a great fight.

“If Terence is able to be comfortable and manage his energy, we have to start talking about him in the same breath as Manny Pacquiao, Andre Ward, and Floyd Mayweather. With this fight, you can’t measure another fighter’s energy or mentality through the fight. Terence never got uncomfortable in his fight against me. He never showed me that there was anything unsettled within his heart or mind. I pride myself on making fighters uncomfortable. Never once did I see Terence uncomfortable. I didn’t apply the kind of pressure that Errol is going to apply. That may have been the reason why I didn’t see Terence uncomfortable.

“I don’t have a pick. I don’t know who is going to win this fight. This is what boxing truly is. Both guys have basically everything needed to win, from power to speed. I truly don’t think anyone can look at this fight and say, ‘That guy is going to win,’ because there are so many outcomes and possibilities. One thing we know that’s not going to happen is that there won‘t be any foul play, any low blows. There is not going to be any head butts that would end this fight prematurely. The fans win. Boxing purists especially win.”

KELL BROOK, Former Welterweight World Champion

“I’m very excited for this fight and everyone is talking about this fight. It’s a massive fight and for No. 1. I actually put both these guys up as pound-for-pound in all the divisions. and they’re going to go after it.

“Errol Spence is a very big welterweight, a natural southpaw. He’s big and strong and goes to the body good. His IQ is very high in the ring.

“Terence Crawford can box. He’s a sharpshooter with his punches and a very good finisher. He’s going to need every game plan in this fight. This is a real test.

“I put up guys like Errol, Crawford, Shawn Porter and Golovkin who I’ve been in there with who just have that aura around them. They have that X-factor. It’s the small margins that will decide this fight. It will come down to who has prepared the best. This is the real test for No. 1 in the division and we’re going to get some toe-to-toe action.

“I think Errol brings calculated pressure and will go to the body. He will be the bigger guy in the fight. Crawford has to be sharp and use the entire ring and pick his shots at the right time and make Spence work when he doesn’t want to work. He has to be very clever and get the rounds and break him down over the fight.

“I think inactivity can be an issue and it’s mental for Errol, who might question his inactivity. Time will tell.

“I think Terence is a very sharp and snapping puncher and Errol has a more grinding and thumping kind of power. That’s the difference I see in the two. We’re talking about two star fighters and it’s going to come down to a very small margin and they’re going to have to bring every part of their game to get a victory.”

VIRGIL HUNTER, Former Trainer for Andre Ward, Andre Berto, Amir Khan and More

“The fight can’t come soon enough. I’m excited, especially to get both men at their peak. Both men seem hungry and ready to go. I expect an epic night.

“Errol has a grind-it-out, that go-get-you mentality. It doesn’t make sense to go against what works. In this fight, it’s not what I’m going to do to you. The fighter that wins will be the one who’s not going to let the other fighter do what he wants to do.

“I had the fortune to spend one day in the gym with Terence. His physical strength is underrated. The way he is genetically built, the way he has stayed in the gym for his entire career and has never gotten out of condition, brings a snap to his punch. He has a real buggy whip snap to his punches. You can feel a snap. He was a wrestler early on, and I’ve watched him tussle with big guys and get them down to the ground. He is built from the feet up with his physical strength. He can generate a lot of power.

“I like Errol and the way he fights. At some point that grind out style will slow up as you age. You have to grind every single day. Errol has admitted that he has had a lifestyle that wasn’t always good. That does damage to the internal organs that is irreversible. Errol’s determination and drive are A-plus. Who can stop the other guy from doing what he wants to do is going to be a factor in this fight.

“If either fighter is down in the fight, he has the ability to come back, even the fight, and take the lead. The first four rounds are going to determine how the rest of the fight is going to go. Both men understand that they have to get the respect of the other fighter real quick. The key for Terence is to stop Errol from what he wants to do and hurt him. The key for Errol is to keep grinding. He is going to have his momentum accelerated and make it very difficult for Terence.

“If I was able to spend three weeks in Errol’s and Crawford’s camps and watch the training, watch the strategies, and watch what they both do after training, how they recuperate, how they reinvigorate themselves, that would allow me to have a more accurate pick in this fight. I will be more settled on a pick during the week of the fight. I’ll be watching the mentalities and attitudes of the fighters, particularly on their skills. The Las Vegas heat and the rehydration process are going to be factors. I would have to be subjected to each fighter’s mental makeup over a period of time to see the concentration and mental fortitude to be able to make a pick. I’m just going to enjoy the fight. This is a great fight for boxing.”

STEPHEN “BREADMAN” EDWARDS, Trainer for Julian Williams, Caleb Plant and More

“Crawford doesn’t have a lot of holes in his armor. One thing I was able to see in his fight with Shawn and Kell is that, for some reason, Terence is a little bit of a slow starter. They were able to get a lot done in the early rounds. So, I would really be conscious of that. [Terence] is one of the best fighters I’ve ever seen. The one thing about him is if you can get to him early before he adjusts.

“With Errol, he’s a snowball fighter who, once he gets his rhythm, comes forward and can walk you down behind that southpaw jab. One thing I would be worried about in this fight is letting Errol get his rhythm and establish that hard southpaw jab. That’s the first thing I would address if I was in Terence’s corner.

“The other thing would be counter attacking Errol’s body punching. Errol hits you to the body all night long and kind of wears you out. Besides Shawn, I’ve never seen someone go to Errol’s body all night long. I notice the small things and I’ve noticed Terence wears his trunks kind of high. I’ll be curious to see how he can overcome Errol’s grinding body shots.

“Terence is the puncher in this fight. Not that he punches harder than Errol, but he can hit you with shots that Errol doesn’t hit guys with. Errol kind of beats you down with his power, while Terence hits you on the money with shots you don’t even see. I would have Terence punch with him. Terence is really gifted where he can keep his eye on the target, punch with guys, and land clean shots. I don’t think he’s the hardest puncher I’ve ever seen as far as one-punch knockouts, but he has that ability to hit you while you’re punching with shots you don’t see. He doesn’t have to load up on it. It’s like a fast-snapping shot.

“Errol boxes going forward. When a guy boxes going forward he doesn’t get the same accolades as the guy who’s throwing a lot of smooth moves like a Pernell Whitaker or Floyd Mayweather, or even Shakur Stevenson. I think people use the word basic as an insult, but it’s not an insult, it’s a compliment. [Errol] is not fancy. He doesn’t show a lot of fancy moves and he doesn’t do a lot to avoid punches. But that doesn’t mean he’s not boxing. He keeps it simple.

“I think it’s a 50-50 fight. Errol does things in a subtle way. Against Mikey Garcia he fought a conservative fight and literally won every round. He got criticism for it because he didn’t knock the smaller man out. But he totally undressed him and outboxed him, so he does have that in his game and it could show up that night of the fight. Sometimes those guys need that special opponent in front of them to bring out what they really are because they don’t really show all of their stuff against the lesser guys.

“Those bright lights can do something to you, but both guys have composed, mature selves in the ring. I don’t see either guy choking up under the bright lights. Both guys seem to have that clutch gene. I don’t think that’s going to be a factor. Every time I’ve seen one of these guys’ backs against the wall, they up the ante and raise the stakes.

“Once these guys start clicking you’re going to see something special. I think the casual fan might say, ‘There’s not enough action.’ But for the purist, you’ll see some great, great stuff. It will become a classic. I think this is one fight I wish was 15 rounds because I think both guys are 15-round fighters and would have flourished in a 15-round era.

“I don’t have a pick right now. That’s the honest truth. I think we’re going to have the Fight of the Century. I wouldn’t be surprised if both guys hit the canvas. It’s so close and so many little things in the gym matter. I’m objective and have relationships with both teams. I really don’t have a pick right now. I just think it’s going to be a great fight.”

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator. Kicking off the pay-per-view, unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan will duel the power-punching Viktor Faust in a 10-round matchup.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

NEW YORK, NY (July 4, 2023) – The Frisco RoughRiders and DiBella Entertainment are bringing the biggest fight of the year and a night of live boxing to the fight fans of Frisco, TX. On Saturday, July 29, Riders Field will host a viewing party for the long-awaited Errol Spence Jr. versus Terence Crawford undisputed welterweight championship.

Before Spence and Crawford get it on via the jumbotron, a night of live boxing will take place on the field beginning at 7:30 PM. In the main event, scheduled for 10 rounds, Fort Worth’s own Edward “Kid” Vazquez (14-1, 3 KOs), fresh off a big win on Showtime, will fight for the IBF Intercontinental featherweight championship versus hard-hitting Brayan “La Roca” De Gracia (29-2-1, 25 KOs), of Panama, who represents the most experienced opponent of Vazquez’s career.

Once the night of live action is complete, attention will turn to the biggest scoreboard in all of Minor League Baseball, where Spence and Crawford will battle from Las Vegas. All concessions will be open, making this the biggest and best watch party in town.

International Boxing Hall-of-Famer Lou DiBella is also an important figure in Minor League Baseball as the President and Managing General Partner of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the AA-affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, and the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.

“Spence-Crawford is the biggest fight in many years; the two top welterweights in the world, both undefeated and in their prime, will collide to determine who is the best of their era. I am thrilled to bring this tremendous fight to the fans in attendance at Frisco’s Riders Field via the closed-circuit telecast,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “As a special treat, DiBella Entertainment will also deliver a night of live world class boxing, featuring Fort Worth’s Edward Vazquez facing Panamanian KO artist Brayan De Gracia in the main event. Undefeated Armenian welterweight Aram Amirkhanyan and Dallas female boxing star Shurretta Metcalf will highlight the undercard. Boxing at the ballpark, both live and via closed-circuit, was once a longstanding tradition in the sport. On July 29, we will bring that back.”

“It will be peanuts, crackerjacks and fisticuffs on Saturday, July 29 at Riders Field,” said Chuck Greenberg, General Partner and CEO of the Frisco RoughRiders. “Spence vs. Crawford is the biggest boxing event in years and the RoughRiders are thrilled to host a special closed-circuit viewing of the fight for our loyal fans at Riders Field. In addition to the Spence-Crawford fight, DiBella Entertainment will present a live bout card to complement the action-packed evening. This is a truly special and unique event for us and we can’t wait to provide a great night of entertainment.”

Tickets, starting at $35 plus service fees, are on sale NOW and can be purchased through Tickets.com. VIP Ringside seating, including food and drink in the Founders Club presented by Baylor Scott & White Health, are $150. Riders Field is located at 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco, TX 75034. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:30pm CT, with the first bout scheduled for 7:30pm CT. The Spence-Crawford main event closed-circuit broadcast will be shown immediately following the conclusion of the live bouts.

Leading into the Vazquez-De Gracia main event, rising female talent Shurretta Metcalf (11-4-1, 2 KOs), from Dallas, TX, will fight in the co-featured attraction. Metcalf, once ranked the #1 USA super bantamweight as an amateur, is trained by Ozell Nelson, who worked with former undisputed middleweight world champion Jermain Taylor.

Also highlighting the undercard will be undefeated Armenian welterweight prospect Aram Amirkhanyan (14-0-1, 4 KOs). He is a former IBF International, WBO International, and WBA Continental champion. Prior to the pandemic, Amirkhanyan had been world ranked by three of the major sanctioning bodies and the combined record of his last five opponents was 61-3-1. He returned in July 2022 with an eight-round unanimous decision win.

Further details on this event will be announced shortly.

By Norm Frauenheim –

It’s a fight that has already exceeded expectations. Terence Crawford-Errol Spence Jr. got made. There was a deal just a few months after one looked to be impossible.

It’s the beginning of a bout loaded with the potential to deliver a classic and maybe more.  An agreement that emerges from a never-never land littered with all of boxing’s usual complications makes just about anything look possible.

Maybe even some history.

A historical parallel, at least, has been introduced and figures to be at the cutting edge of the promotional pitch throughout the month-long build-up before opening bell on July 29 at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

It’s no ordinary parallel. Nothing about Sugar Ray Leonard-Thomas Hearns in September 1981 on a Vegas summer night up the Strip from T-Mobile at an open-air arena behind Caesars Palace was ordinary. It was extraordinary in almost every way. It was a masterpiece, perhaps the best fight in boxing’s modern – and messy — history.

For more than four decades, it’s a fight that has stood alone, unmatched for its artistry and ferocity. There’s never been an encore, and the guess from this corner is that there never will be.

That corner of history belongs to Leonard-Hearns in a drama that saw the fighters switch styles. Leonard, the boxer, became the puncher, scoring a late TKO of the puncher, Hearns, suddenly the boxer. It was a different time, the end of an era when championship fights were scheduled for 15 rounds instead of 12.

In this era, Hearns would have won a 12-round decision. He was leading on all three cards going into the 13^th. Then, however, he was stopped suddenly and definitively after Leonard heard and heeded a warning from trainer Angelo Dundee.

“You’re blowing it, son, you’re blowing it,’’ Dundee said. 

Leonard flipped a switch — finesse to ferocious – mounting a blitzkrieg burst of violence that left Hearns exhausted and beaten along the ropes at 1:45 of the 14^th.

Can history repeat itself? It hasn’t. Not even Hearns and Leonard could in a 1989 rematch that was about eight years too late. Each beyond their prime, they fought to a draw. It was oh-so forgettable. Often, it’s not remembered at all, mostly because of the powerful memory of their first fight, a boxing monument if there ever was one.

Leonard-Hearns, the golden oldie, is still the model. Maybe, Crawford-Spence is the remake.

“This fight is really as big as it gets,’’ Tom Brown, president of TGB Promotions, said on June 14 in New York as he formally announced the bout in the second of coast-to-coast news conferences. “We have the best two fighters in the world, unbeaten and in their prime.

“We haven’t seen fighters with skills like this since Sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns.”

There’ll be some debate about that. Leonard was 25, Hearns 22. Crawford is 35, Spence 33. Leonard and Hearns were just entering their prime. Crawford and Spence are leaving theirs.

Over the last four decades, there’s been research, nutrition and technology that allows athletes to extend their careers.  

Maybe, Crawford and Spence still have some prime time that Leonard and Hearns didn’t. But this isn’t Olympic swimming. It’s boxing. A single punch on July 29 or forty-two years ago can still end a career.

Still, some potential elements are in place. Crawford enters the biggest welterweight bout in his generation as the boxer. At opening bell, he’ll play Leonard’s role. Yet, his power also has turned him into one of today’s few real finishers. His 39-0 record includes 30 stoppages.

The bigger Spence has the Hearns role. His feared power is an ever-present threat, yet his boxing skill is evident, especially in three of his last four fights – scorecard victories over Mikey Garcia, Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia.

For Crawford and Spence, there’s a chance to do what Leonard and Hearns didn’t. Leonard and Hearns didn’t turn their all-time bout into a rivalry. They were finished by the time they got to the rematch. Leonard was 33, Hearns 30 in their June 1989 sequel, a bout fought at a 164-pound catchweight, also at Caesars Palace.

The Crawford-Spence agreement includes a rematch clause. If their promised classic happens, the prediction is that there’ll be rematch later this year.

But first they’ll have to deliver in a way that Floyd Mayweather’s 2015 decision over Manny Pacquiao didn’t. The Mayweather-Pacquiao dud, also at welterweight, didn’t exceed any of the inflated expectations. The disappointment lingered like a lousy hangover for years.

Mayweather-Pacquiao is also history, a lingering lesson and a more recent reminder about what not to repeat.

Guess here, Crawford-Spence won’t be Mayweather-Pacquiao. It won’t be Leonard-Hearns, either. In a fabled weight class, it’s a fight suddenly intriguing for one reason. During an era when so many big fights don’t get made, this one is about to happen.  

Call it the opening possibility, perhaps the first of many that haven’t been seen for far too long.

Jesus Ramos poised for next lesson

Jesus Ramos, of Casa Grande AZ, is beginning to look like the hottest prospect to emerge from Arizona since super-middleweight contender and two-time former WBC champion David Benavidez.

Ramos (20-0,16 KOs) hopes to embellish his credentials at junior-middleweight against Spanish veteran Sergio Garcia (34-2, 14 KOs) in a scheduled 12-round bout on the pay-per-view portion of the Showtime telecast of Crawford-Spence.

It’s a fight that could put Ramos in position to challenge Tim Tszyu or unified junior-middleweight champion Jermell Charlo.

 “With a victory, I believe I could get into the top five, or at least the top 10,’’ the 22-year-old Ramos said Thursday during a virtual news conference.

Ramos, who is coming off a seventh-round stoppage of Joey Spencer on the undercard of Benavidez’ decision over Caleb Plant on March 25, says each fight is a lesson plan.

“I’m doing things at my own pace,’’ he said. “Each fight is an opportunity for me to learn something. Seeing different styles is the perfect way for me. It’ll help prepare me for whenever my moment comes.’’

LAS VEGAS – June 29, 2023 – Fighters competing on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, July 29 previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos taking on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator and unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan dueling the power-punching Viktor Faust in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m training hard as always and zeroing in on Giovanni Cabrera’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s an honor to be the co-main event of a fight that will be remembered forever in boxing lore.

“My plan is to go out there and put on a show for everyone watching. I’ll be ready. One round or 12 rounds, however long it lasts, it’s gonna be a great fight.

“I’m gonna put on a show against Cabrera. It’s all part of my effort to close every door that Gervonta has available to escape from facing me again. I want to prove that I’m the best at 135 pounds.

“I’m really excited to win this fight so I can get to the next level of what I want to achieve. Giovanni is a quality fighter and he’s undefeated for a reason. I’m definitely not overlooking him, because he’s earned this shot.

“The fans are extra motivation for me. I want to keep giving them spectacular fights. It fills me with joy and pride to see their support. I promise every single fan that this fight is gonna be worth the price of admission.

“He may think he’s faced fighters like me in the gym, but he better be ready, because facing the real thing is a lot different.

“I’m here to show everyone that I’m no social media fighter like some others are. I’m a dog, I’m a warrior and my ceiling is not even close to being hit yet.”

GIOVANNI CABRERA

“I’m very happy to be here. I’ve finally arrived at the stage I’ve wanted to be at my entire career. Isaac Cruz is a great Mexican fighter and I’m a first-generation Mexican here in the U.S., so it’s gonna be fireworks. I think this might steal the show. I’m ready for my best performance yet.

“I believe he’s the best opponent I’ve faced. He has a strong will and a lot of fire. My plan is to meet that fire with my own.

“Cruz got his position from having a close fight with Gervonta Davis, so if he gets that merit, then if I defeat him convincingly, I’ll be right at the top too. I’ve shared the ring with his promoter Manny Pacquiao, so if I can dance with ‘Pac-Man’, I can dance with a ‘Pitbull’.

“My activity is definitely an advantage. I’ve been sparring great fighters at Wild Card Boxing Gym and I’m keeping sharp. This gym has the best fighters from all around the world.

“I’ve seen many examples of fighters with Isaac’s style. I’ve been able to out-class them. That’s the goal on July 29.

“I promise that we’re gonna leave Mexican boxing and American boxing on a high pedestal. You’re gonna see two warriors go at it and it’s gonna be fitting of the stage that we’re on.

“This is my time. Isaac Cruz is in trouble. I will be ready on July 29.”

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m very blessed. I’m working extremely hard. I’m facing a tough opponent who always comes to fight. I know he’s gonna be there and ready to fight for the whole 12 rounds.

“I think with a win over Sergio Garcia I’m top five, or at least top 10 in the division. I’ve been beating top guys and looking impressive against them. I want to earn my shot and these are the fights I have to take.

“The goal is a knockout, but I’m a more mature fighter now. I don’t put that pressure on myself. I just go out there and perform and do what I do best. I work hard every day and I have to demonstrate that. If the opportunity comes, I know how to finish.

“This is gonna be an exciting fight. He’s a fighter who comes forward and he’s gonna be there all night. That’s the kind of fight I like. I can brawl if I have to.

“As fighters we grow with each fight and mature. I’ve matured with every fight and I’ve acknowledged my mistakes. I go back into the gym and work on getting better and that’s what I’m gonna show on July 29.

“I’m motivated by any doubt that I receive. If they don’t consider me the top of the division yet, then it’s because I haven’t earned it. I’m going to keep working hard. A lot of people thought my last fight was a 50/50 matchup, and I went out there and showed that it wasn’t the case.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I’m training in the U.K. with a new trainer in Angel Fernandez and we’ve been working really hard. I’m facing a young opponent who’s gonna give it his all, but I have the edge in experience and I’m gonna take advantage on July 29.

“I’ve been feeling great with my new trainer and the chemistry is outstanding. But this is really about me having a third chance in the U.S. I know that if this passes by me, I might not get another opportunity.

“I know that Ramos wants to show out and make it to the top of the division. I just have to focus on executing what I do in the ring. I’ve shown that I have courage, but now I have to show my skills as well.  

“I can’t give away my secrets, but I have Jesus well scouted. I’ve been following him and I respect him. I know he’s been watching me too and that’s gonna make this a great fight.

“I may possess some tools that Jose doesn’t have. My fight against Tony Harrison was not my best night. I thought my fight with Sebastian Fundora could have gone either way. I’m going to take that experience and use it to come out on top.”

GURGEN HOVHANNISYAN

“My training is going really well. I’m very happy to be the opening fight on SHOWTIME PPV. I’m training really hard for July 29.

“I’ve known Viktor Faust since the amateurs and I looked up to him then. I’m very familiar with what he can do in the ring and I’m preparing to put on a great show. I’m very confident that I’m going to open this pay-per-view with an excellent performance.

“Spence vs. Crawford is gonna be the fight of the decade and that makes this a big step for me. A lot of people will be watching my performance and it’s very important for me to be on this card and perform well.

Boxing is more of a mental sport. I’ve learned a lot in that regard from being in the gym and sparring top fighters. With it being my fifth fight, that’s only a number to me. I’m prepared for this. It doesn’t matter to me how experienced my opponent is. I’m going to take on the fights with the best opponents.

“We do a lot more than 10 rounds of sparring when I’m training with Joe Goossen in the gym, so I’m not worried about going the distance if I have to. I’m more than ready.

“I’m not going to force the knockout, but if it comes, it comes. I’m just going to deliver beautiful boxing for everyone watching.”

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator. Kicking off the pay-per-view, unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan will duel the power-punching Viktor Faust in a 10-round matchup.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

LAS VEGAS – June 23, 2023 – Three all-action showdowns featuring prodigious rising stars, ascending Mexican fan-favorites, unbeaten contenders and more will highlight the stacked Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. vs. Terence “Bud” Crawford SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator. Kicking off the pay-per-view, unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan will duel the power-punching Viktor Faust in a 10-round matchup.

These intriguing showdowns serve as the prelude to the highly anticipated main event between unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Spence Jr. and WBO 147-pound world champion Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship. The winner of this battle of undefeated superstars will become the first undisputed welterweight world champion in the four-belt era and likely emerge as the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

“This pay-per-view lineup on July 29 is worthy of the mega-fight main event and will give fans high-stakes action leading up to the seismic showdown between Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Isaac Cruz and Jesus Ramos Jr. are two rising stars who deliver fireworks every time they get in the ring, and they’ll be pushed to be at their best in tough matchups on SHOWTIME PPV. Adding in an explosive heavyweight opener, and fans will want to make sure they get into their seats early at T-Mobile Arena.”

The 25-year-old Cruz (24-2-1, 17 KOs) has delivered back-to-back electrifying knockouts since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Matias Romero. Cruz’s last two fights have seen him stop former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022.

“I can’t wait to be back in the ring on July 29 in the boxing capital of the world of Las Vegas,” said Cruz. “It’s even more exciting that I’ll be back on the biggest show of the year. It has always been a dream of mine to fight in Las Vegas, where so many Mexican legends like Julio Cesar Chavez, Salvador Sanchez and Erik Morales have fought before. Now it’s my opportunity and I will not disappoint the fans. As always, I’m coming for the knockout!”

Originally from Seattle and now residing in Chicago, Cabrera (21-0, 7 KOs) enters the ring off an impressive shutout victory over Gabriel Flores Jr. last July, capping a dominant three-win 2022 campaign. The 28-year-old has defeated seven undefeated fighters throughout a pro career that dates back to 2016. Cabrera kicked off his strong 2022 with a unanimous decision triumph over highly regarded Mexican contender Rene Tellez Giron in January and can establish himself as a member of the 135-pound elite if he can get past Cruz on July 29.

“It hasn’t been an easy road to this point, and I know that I have to beat ‘Pitbull’ Cruz to continue my path to the world title,” said Cabrera. “This is a hard fight, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I want to earn my status as world champion. Spence vs. Crawford is reminiscent of the glory days of boxing when the best fought the best, and I want to continue that legacy. I respect Cruz and I expect a war. May the best fighter win on July 29.”

A strong southpaw who at 22 has yet to come close to hitting his ceiling as a fighter, Ramos (20-0, 16 KOs) blitzed then unbeaten Joey Spencer in March, dropping him in round one before stopping him in round seven to earn the TKO in his sensational 2023 debut. A native of Casa Grande, Ariz., Ramos also owns back-to-back 10-round unanimous decisions over Brian Mendoza and Javier Molina in 2021, which he followed up by defeating Luke Santamaria and Vladimir Hernandez in 2022. Overall, the youthful Ramos has gained recognition with highlight-reel KOs, stopping seven of his last 10 opponents, showcasing a desire to end his fights early. 

“I’m coming to give the crowd a great show on the biggest card of the year,” said Ramos. “I’m very happy and excited to be back on another huge card. Sergio Garcia is a tough opponent and I know he’s going to bring the best out in me. That’s just gonna make for even more entertainment for the fans. I’m training hard and I promise I’m gonna be ready for whatever Garcia brings on July 29.”

The 30-year-old Garcia (34-2, 14 KOs) returned to the ring April to defeat Ricardo Sebastian Cabana before he steps into the ring for his third stateside bout on July 29. Garcia’s only career defeats have come via decision as he dropped a December 2021 bout against top contender Sebastian Fundora and an April 2022 clash against former world champion Tony Harrison. Fighting out of Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain, Garcia has competed professionally since 2012. He ascended the rankings by traveling to the U.K. to defeat then unbeaten Ted Cheeseman on his home soil in 2019 and followed that up with a triumph over veteran contender Sergey Rabchenko.

“I’m very motivated by this new opportunity to fight in the U.S. and I want to thank my team for trusting to put me back in this position,” said Garcia. “I’m hoping to give the fans a great fight. Jesus has a great future ahead of him, but I also have a lot of experience in important fights and I think that will lead me to the victory. It will be a hard fight but I’m ready to be at my very best and use everything I have to get my hand raised.”

The 25-year-old Hovhannisyan (4-0, 4 KOs) has delivered four consecutive knockouts since turning pro in September 2021, showing the promise he originally displayed in his extensive amateur career. Originally from Yerevan, Armenia, he now fights out of Los Angeles as he looks to bolster his heavyweight resume. Most recently, Hovhannisyan earned a career-best victory, stopping previous top prospect Michael Coffie in six rounds last October.

“July 29 is a great opportunity for me to showcase myself in front of the world,” said Hovhannisyan. “Boxing is a serious sport, but if you train hard and understand it, you can understand exactly what you have to do in the ring. I’m going to prove what I can do in this fight and make a statement.”

Faust (11-1, 7 KOs) will look to get back in the win column after dropping a battle of unbeatens against Lenier Pero in February. His previous stateside outing saw him engage in one of 2022’s most unpredictable and fast-paced slugfests. The 31-year-old squared off with Iago Kiladze in January 2022 with both men hitting the canvas an astonishing five times combined in less than five minutes of action before the Ukrainian closed out the bout in round two to earn a TKO. Faust followed that up with decision wins over veteran title challenger Kevin Johnson in August 2022 and Franklin Lawrence in December 2022.

“I’m working very hard to come to Las Vegas and put on a great fight,” said Faust. “I’m excited to be back fighting in the U.S. and ready to show the fans what I can do. I had a rib injury in my last fight and couldn’t continue, but it has only made me more motivated to win on July 29. It’s an honor to be fighting on such a big card, and I know this is a big step that I can make toward becoming world champion. I’m sure Gurgen is going to come prepared just like me and that the fans are going to be the real winners.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

NEW YORK – June 14, 2023 – Undefeated boxing superstars and pound-for-pound greats Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford verbally sparred and provoked the other with sharp and sometimes comical one-liners during a lively press conference Wednesday in New York to preview their clash for the undisputed welterweight championship on Saturday, July 29 in a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“I’m the biggest (fish). He’s not catching me with no damn fishing pole,” Spence said, continuing the war of metaphors with Crawford, who promised to “gut” Spence in the ring. “He better come with a submarine. I’m the biggest shark. You ain’t catching Moby Dick with a fishing pole.”

“Fish fillet,” Crawford responded. “I like to go fishing,” he said at another point. “Everyone knows that’s my hobby.”

The unified WBC, WBA and IBF Champion Spence and WBO champion Crawford completed back-to-back, coast-to-coast press conferences in Times Square as they near their long anticipated clash to crown the first undisputed welterweight world champion in the four-belt era.

The press conferences in Beverly Hills and New York City can be watched HERE and HERE. The press conference on Wednesday streamed live on two giant outdoor LED video displays on billboards overlooking Times Square, the first time that SHOWTIME^® has ever live-streamed a boxing press event atop a billboard in Midtown Manhattan.

Spence vs. Crawford will be highlighted by three episodes of the Emmy^® Award-winning series ALLACCESS from SHOWTIME Sports with ALLACCESS: SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD Episode One premiering on Saturday, July 8 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and Episode Two debuting on Saturday, July 15 at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with an Epilogue days after the fight.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from the Palladium Times Square:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“This is the biggest fight in boxing. When you look at your styles, and know our mentalities, you know neither of us are gonna want to break. I feel like someone is gonna break on fight night.

“I’m ready to show people that I’m one of the best welterweights of all time. Don’t miss this fight. Because I’m gonna show everyone why I’m breaking people.

“I’ve done everything that I said I was gonna do. The last thing left to do is beat Terence Crawford. He’s a great fighter, but I’m gonna break him and show everyone why I’m the best fighter in boxing, period.

“All the titles I took, I took them from the champions. You line ‘em up, I’m gonna knock ‘em down. It doesn’t matter what happens, I get the job done.

“He can show what he wants to show. He might go on and do his thing after I beat him and prove he’s an all-time great. But he can stop that nonsense because I’m winning on July 29.

“We have to show these other fighters that there are rewards in taking risks. The best have to fight the best.”

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“This is a fight that’s been marinating. This is greatness that you’re going to see on July 29. I’ve been preparing my whole life for this moment. Moments like these don’t come often, and this is my time.

“July 29 I can assure you, you’re gonna walk away and say, ‘Terence Crawford is special.’ You’re gonna mark me down as one of the greatest of all time.

“I rise to the occasion when I have the odds stacked against me. I’m a fan of Errol, but this is business. I see myself beating him. I’ve visualized it numerous times before.

“I like to go fishing. Everyone knows that’s my hobby. They’ve all been caught before. Every last one of them. I got a big enough hook for Errol. We actually already caught him, and we’re reeling him in right now.

“Being undisputed is gonna mean everything to me. July 29 you’re gonna see a Terence Crawford that you’ve never seen before. Errol may bring the best out of me.”

DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer

“I can’t wait. Everyone has been hoping to see this. I know that Crawford is coming with his ‘A game’ and Errol will be on his ‘A game.’ You’re gonna see a phenomenal competition. Now, it’s work time. We’re gonna be who we are. Put the pressure on, break him down and win the fight.”

BRIAN “BO MAC” MCINTYRE, Crawford’s Trainer

“This is how the fight is gonna go. It’s gonna be tough. Real tough. I tip my hat to what Errol has accomplished. The first couple of rounds will be tough, but then we’re gonna start walking away with the fight, like we always do. We’ve stopped the last 10 opponents, and Errol might be number 11.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This fight is really as big as it gets. We have the best two fighters in the world, unbeaten and in their prime. We haven’t seen fighters with skills like this since Sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports

“I’ve described this as the perfect fight, and that’s no exaggeration. It has every element that boxing fans would want. Everything is at stake on July 29.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

LOS ANGELES – June 13, 2023 – Undefeated boxing superstars and pound-for-pound greats Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford went face-to-face for the first time Tuesday before they  meet for the undisputed welterweight championship on Saturday, July 29 in a  SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. Spence is the unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion, while Crawford holds the WBO 147-pound world championship.

The winner of this matchup of undefeated superstars will become the first undisputed welterweight world champion in the four-belt era and likely emerge as the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter. Spence vs. Crawford joins Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Thomas Hearns, Pernell Whitaker vs. Julio César Chávez and Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao, as a generational matchup of two popular stars whose dynamic and aggressive styles should produce an instant classic.

At their first in-person meeting since the fight was announced, Spence and Crawford both promised to deliver performances commensurate with  the anticipation of this historic matchup at the kickoff press conference.

“This is the biggest fight in boxing right now,” said Spence. “This is a legendary fight. It’s an old-school fight. This is like the fights my dad used to tell me about. It’s the best fighting the best.”

“This is definitely a legacy fight and a fight that should be talked about everywhere,” said Crawford. “This is an old school type of fight. All the greats have fought each other and that’s what we’re doing for this era.”

Spence vs. Crawford will be highlighted by three episodes of the Emmy^® Award-winning series ALL-ACCESS from SHOWTIME Sports with ALL-ACCESS: SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD Episode One premiering on Saturday, July 8 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and Episode Two debuting on Saturday, July 15 at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with an Epilogue days after the fight.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from The Beverly Hills Hotel:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“Everybody tune in and come out to the fight, because we’re gonna have a Craw-fish boil. And there’s gonna be enough for everybody. I promise you that.

“We had to get on the phone and talk about it, and now it’s finally happening. This is gonna prove not only who the best welterweight is, but who the best fighter in the world is. My mentality is to go all out and give everything. His mentality is the same.

“Terence hasn’t fought anybody. Even Shawn Porter said he didn’t train like he should against you. Kell Brook was already broken. I broke Kell Brook’s other eye, that’s how he got broke.

“Terence is a great fighter and I’m gonna break another great fighter’s will. Mentally and physically, I’m gonna dominate and come out on top.

“I don’t pay attention to the odds. Everything I’ve been through the last few years, I understand being the underdog. A lot of underdogs end up winning, that’s why it’s a bet.

“This is gonna be a one-sided ass whooping. It’s gonna take a few rounds, because he’s a tough dude. But everyone gets broke and we’re gonna break him down.

“I can guarantee you this is gonna be an action-packed, old school type of fight. If you’ve been craving those old fights, you have to tune into this one. This is a legendary fight. Belts aside, you talk about just these two fighters, this is the biggest fight in boxing. Especially because of the action we bring. We’re both going for the victory.”

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“Y’all are going to witness greatness. We measure greatness by eras. July 29, I’m going to show everyone why this era is the Terence Crawford era.

“I’m so excited that we’re here today and that we got this fight done. I’m excited for the fans. I have a gift for each and every one of y’all, because I love the fans. Without the fans, there’s no us. I’m going to give you all a gift with the presence of the two of us on July 29.

“He calls himself the big fish. What happens when you take the fish out the water? You suffocate him.

“A win shows that I’m the greatest fighter of the era. No man has captured undisputed in two weight classes. That solidifies me as the greatest fighter of this era.

“I’m gonna gut him and feed him to everyone that eats fish in here. If he’s a big fish, we’re gonna have enough for everyone, with potatoes on the side. We don’t smoke over here, we go hunting for fish fillet.

“People after this fight are gonna say that Bud Crawford is special. I can assure you that. He’ll give me my respect after the fight after I whoop that ass.

“I can guarantee that everyone is gonna witness something special. Errol doesn’t like to back up. I’m the type of fighter where you push me and I push even harder. We both have big hearts and like to fight. It makes for a great action-packed fight. July 29 is gonna be a great night for boxing.”

DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer

“This is something that’s been coming for a long time. There’s been a lot of talk and speculation. What it’s all about right now is July 29.

“It’s time to get busy. That’s all we care about. I’m ready to see Errol go out there and do what he needs to do. He did what he said he’d do and got those three belts, now it’s time to get one more.

“I believe that Errol will win the fight because of his technique and skill set. It’s not so much about gamesmanship. He doesn’t talk, he goes in there and gets busy. What you’ll see once again is Errol prove his dominance over another fighter.

“It’s not about knocking a guy out, it’s about breaking a fighter. It’s about taking away their desire to fight. That’s what you’ll see July 29.

“It’s all about the big fish right now. I like the Crawford team, we’re really co-workers because that’s the only way to make this happen. But on the night of the fight, it’s gonna be showtime for real.”

BRIAN “BO MAC” MCINTYRE, Crawford’s Trainer

“I’m so glad these fighters stayed the course and got this fight made. They’re going to show the world who the best fighter is. That really tells you about each fighter’s character.

“We’re gonna show you the best fighter in the world on July 29. It will be us. Don’t miss it. I promise you. I know Spence is coming and Derrick is gonna do a damn good job training him, but it doesn’t matter.

“Terence is the better fighter and the world knows that. If you just look how he goes about his business, there’s no playing around with him. He comes to get you out of there. Once he hurts you, that’s a wrap.

“Errol is a damn good fighter. He accomplished a lot in the game and I tip my hat to him and to Derrick. But the real fighters know who’s gonna win this fight.

“I promise you from the bottom of my heart, that we’re going to walk away victorious.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is as big as it gets. The best two fighters in the world, both in their prime and both undefeated world champions. This is not just a mega fight, it’s bigger than that. It’s a generational fight. It’s an instant classic that you’ll remember for years to come. Legacies will be determined on July 29.

“Not only is Errol one of the best fighters in the world, but he’s a boxing miracle for what he’s gone through. He’s also box office gold. His last fight generated a massive live gate at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and he’s proven he sells outside Texas. Now he’s coming to do the same in the boxing capital of the world of Las Vegas.

“There’s no more talk about who’s on what side of the street; on Saturday July 29, ‘Bud’ Crawford will be in one corner and Errol Spence Jr. will be in the other corner. When the fight is over, there will be one man standing in the center of the ring with his hand raised and all four belts. He will be the new undisputed pound-for-pound king of boxing.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports

“This is a fantastic time to be a boxing fan, with big fights and top fighters against top fighters. These fights are happening more regularly and there’s one place where they’re happening more often than anywhere else, and that’s SHOWTIME and SHOWTIME PPV.

“Together with PBC, we’ve delivered the strongest schedule in the sport. This year through July we’ve scheduled 17 big-time boxing events. It’s probably the strongest run of fights we’ve had in the 37 year history of SHOWTIME BOXING.

“We’re thrilled to be delivering this once in a generation fight. This fight speaks for itself. Two of the best fighters in the sport fighting to make history. If you were going to create the perfect fight, it would look a lot like this. Two of the best and most skilled fighters in the sport, two fighters with knockout power, and all-action fan friendly styles. This fight is so evenly matched that the betting odds are almost dead even. We’ve got history on the line, and fighters who’ve overcome adversity and with big and enthusiastic fan bases.

“This fight has all the elements boxing fans could wish for. And it’s all in one fight. We’ll see you on July 29.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

LAS VEGAS – May 31, 2023 – In a matchup that will go down in boxing history as one of the most significant title fights of all time, unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. will take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The winner of this battle of undefeated superstars will become the first undisputed welterweight world champion in the four-belt era and likely emerge as the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter. Spence vs. Crawford joins Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Thomas Hearns, Pernell Whitaker vs. Julio César Chávez and Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao, as a generational matchup of two popular stars whose dynamic and aggressive styles should produce an instant classic. Both Spence and Crawford have reached the pinnacle of boxing’s glamour division with their sublime skills and can stamp themselves alongside 147-pound legends like Leonard, Mayweather, Sugar Ray Robinson and Pacquiao, with a win on July 29.

Spence and Crawford have been circling each other since Crawford became a welterweight champion in 2018, and now, IT’S ON!

Pre-sale tickets are available tomorrow, Thursday, June 1 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: BOXING

Public on-sale begins Friday, June 2 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com. The event is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions.

“I’m truly excited to be a part of the biggest fight in boxing and the best welterweight matchup of the century,” said Spence. “Terence Crawford is a great fighter and our styles are going to make for a great fight. I told him and the world what I was going to do after I captured my first welterweight title and it’s been strap season ever since. On July 29, I’m going to put on a tremendous performance and become the undisputed king of the welterweight division. This is truly going to be a night to remember, one where history is made, and I want everyone to be a part of it.”

“The fans and I have both wanted this fight for years and now it is finally happening,” said Crawford. “This truly is a once in a generation fight, so come out to T-Mobile Arena or tune in to SHOWTIME PPV for the biggest fight in boxing. On July 29, I look forward to making history and becoming two-time undisputed champion of the world.”

“This is an undeniably historic matchup taking place on July 29, because the winner of this fight will go down as the greatest welterweight of this era,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “On top of being for undisputed status, and in addition to pitting two of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the sport against each other, Spence vs. Crawford is an electric style matchup that has captured the imagination of fans everywhere. Boxing’s premier division will have a definitive number one when the dust settles this July at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.”

 “With the addition of this blockbuster event, SHOWTIME SPORTS’ industry-leading schedule becomes even stronger,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming for Showtime Networks Inc. “Spence vs. Crawford is the type of matchup that will demonstrate boxing’s enduring popularity — a marquee event to bring the sports world to a halt with all eyes on the center of the ring in Las Vegas. This fight will be talked about alongside all of the legendary welterweight and undisputed world title bouts throughout history. Together with our partners, we are proud to once again deliver the biggest and best fights that the sport can offer.”

Spence (28-0, 22 KOs) has displayed mental toughness inside and outside of the ring throughout an already storied career. He survived a horrific car crash in 2019 and had surgery to repair a detached retina in 2021. Defying both the odds and other’s expectations, Spence came back to not only defend his title but added even more titles to his trophy case.

Born in Long Island, N.Y., the 33-year-old was and raised in Desoto, Texas where he embarked on an accolade-laden amateur career that culminated with him as a member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team that competed in London, England. He went back to England and won his first welterweight championship when he traveled to Sheffield to meet local favorite and IBF Champion Kell Brook in 2017, stopping Brook in round 11 for the IBF title.

Spence successfully defended the title three times before adding another welterweight title by defeating Shawn Porter in one of 2019’s best fights. After taking time off to recover from injuries from the car crash, Spence defended the unified title with a unanimous decision victory over two-division champion Danny Garcia in 2020. A detached retina scuttled plans to meet Pacquiao in a 2021 showdown, but Spence wasn’t going to be denied as he defeated Yordenis Ugas, who bested Pacquiao as a replacement for Spence, to win the WBA title with a resounding TKO on April 16, 2022.

Crawford (39-0, 30 KOs) is an accomplished ring tactician who has held world titles at lightweight, super lightweight and welterweight. His special blend of blazing fast hands, high ring IQ, superb counter punching ability and defensive prowess has put him in position to become boxing’s first male undisputed champion in two weight classes if he can get past Spence.

The 35-year-old from Omaha, Neb., kicked off his championship run by winning the WBO Lightweight Title with a unanimous decision victory over Ricky Burns in 2014 and began his 140-pound reign by stopping Thomas Dulorme for the WBO Title in 2015. He added the WBC belt in 2016 with a unanimous decision victory over Viktor Postol and became the undisputed champion at 140 pounds with a KO of Julius Indongo in 2017.

Crawford didn’t stick around to defend his undisputed crown at super lightweight, opting to move up to welterweight in 2018 instead. He announced his presence with a TKO victory over Jeff Horn to claim the WBO Championship. He has successfully defended the title six times, including stoppage victories over former 147-pound champions Porter and Brook. In his most recent fight, Crawford scored a highlight-reel KO of David Avanesyan last December.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

By Norm Frauenheim –

Chaos is boxing’s oxygen. If the last few months are a sign, the patient is breathing. Maybe even thriving.

The latest indication is news Thursday from Terence Crawford and Errol Spence that they’ll be fighting July 29.

Just a week after the controversy surrounding Devin Haney’s unanimous decision over Vasiliy Lomachenko erupted, Crawford and Spence took to Instagram to say they have a deal.

The announcement included a PBC poster, betting odds and just about everything else that would represent some sort of confirmation in any other world.

But this is boxing, so caveat emptor. Given the abortive Crawford-Spence negotiations last fall and the subsequent mess of premature reports and denials, skepticism is healthy. Make that necessary.

Every expectation should come with the warning that no fight is real until you hear an opening bell. For fans, that one is a little bit like a referee’s directive: Defend yourself at all times. Not everyone does, of course.

Opening bell was still 66 days away from the moment when Crawford and Spence made their announcement. In a business ruled by chaos, that’s a lot of time, meaning a whole lot can still go wrong.

That said, this round of Crawford-Spence news seems to indicate that the long-awaited welterweight fight on Showtime pay-per-view at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena is as close as it’s ever been.

“Time to reel in the big fish,’’ Crawford said in his post. “No more talking. Let’s get it.

“Everybody come out, show support, and watch me fry this fish.’’

Hopefully, this is not another fish story, as in another big one got away. Guess here: It’s not. At best, both Crawford and Spence are near the end of their respective primes. Crawford, 35, will be 36 in September. Spence, 33, will be 34 in March.

To extend Crawford’s analogy, it’s time to fish or cut bait. It’s their last chance to secure a true legacy.

It’s fair to wonder how they reached their agreement. Last fall, it looked as if Crawford-Spence would be just another big fight that never got made. The career clock exerts its own urgency, of course.

But there’s more to it than that. At the time the deal fell through about seven months ago, it looked as is if the possibility was dead.

Still, Crawford vowed he would continue to pursue the date. But the numbers just weren’t promising. Neither Crawford nor Spence has ever done well enough on pay-per-view to support an agreement that reportedly includes eight-figure purses for each.

Crawford’s best PPV is a reported 135,000 for a 10^th-round stoppage of Shawn Porter in November 2021. That fell 15,000 short of the 150,000 break-even mark.

Spence’s PPV high is reported to be between 300,000 and 350,000 for a split-decision over Porter in September 2019.

Those numbers just said the market wasn’t there.

Then, Tank Davis-Ryan Garcia happened on April 22. The fight itself disappointed. Davis forced Garcia into a seventh-round surrender. But the PPV number exceeded every expectation. Tank-Garcia did a reported 1.2 million.

It was a number that said a viable market is still there, hungry and willing to pay for the right fight.

Is Crawford-Spence that fight?

About that, there are questions.

But the marketing has been there, front and center, even before negotiations failed last fall.

Like it or not, there’s no market for a fight without outrage from fans and media these days. That might lead to a Lomachenko-Haney rematch. Maybe, the scoring wasn’t a robbery. But no rematch would rob the game and its fans.

All the while, social-media anger at Crawford and Spence never really vanished. The echoes are still there. They’ll be easy enough to stir up all over again.

The chaos is still there, a sure sign that the market is too. Enter at your own risk.

By Norm Frauenheim –

From New York to Omaha to Tokyo, a mixed message was delivered over a few days that summed up a year.

Let’s start where it ended. Naoya Inoue stamped himself as the world’s most entertaining fighter, if not its best.

He’s just a lot of fun to watch He’s also relentless. Paul Butler never had a chance, an expectation before opening bell. Actually, it was more than that. It was a sure thing, a certainty predicted in betting odds not seen since Buster Douglas beat Mike Tyson in 1990, also in Tokyo

Inoue was a 60-to-1 favorite, more one-sided than the 42-to-1 number that favored Tyson. Butler wouldn’t – couldn’t — pull off a Douglas-like miracle.

For now, at least, it looks as if nobody in the lighter divisions can beat Inoue, who mocked and rocked Butler while unifying the bantamweight title Tuesday with an 11^th-round stoppage. 

Next move: Up the scale, to junior-featherweight in a quest to be a four-division champion.

Now, on to Omaha. That’s where Terence Crawford, more controversial than ever in the wake of collapsed negotiations for a welterweight date with Errol Spence, showed he’s still as dangerous as ever.

Crawford has been called cold-blooded, and that’s what he delivered with a chilling left-uppercut, right-hook combo that left David Avanesyan flat on his back in the sixth round.

Just like that, it was over. But the controversy was not. It follows Crawford these days.

This time, it involves his gloves. On a night when Everlast became Neverlast, they came apart at the seams.

Everlast took the blame. In a statement posted to Twitter, it said the gloves were made with defective leather. It also said Crawford was blameless.

But the controversy rages on. And on. Remember, this is boxing. In a story first reported by BoxingScene, Avanesyan’s management filed a complaint with the Nebraska Athletic Commission this week.

It takes issue with a decision that allowed the 147-pound title fight to proceed when it was evident that padding was coming through the seams on the right thumb and along the sides of each glove.

At the start of the sixth, the referee called time-out, asking ringside officials to examine Crawford’s gloves. The decision was to continue. Moments later, at 2:14 of the sixth, it was over, Avanesyan finished with a defense as defective as Crawford’s gloves.  

Last stop: New York, where this crazy video journey began. Teofimo Lopez was at home, fighting at Madison Square Garden, in a junior-welterweight bout that many believed would make everybody finally forget about his meltdown after a loss to George Kambosos. It didn’t.

Lopez escaped with a spit decision – controversial by definition – over Sandor Martin, an awkward Spaniard unknown until his upset of Mikey Garcia in October 2021. Lopez looked listless and often uncertain. He got knocked down in the second. It appeared he was down again in the seventh, but the referee ruled it a slip.

Lopez, who drops his hands in the ring and his emotional defenses out of it, questioned himself after the bout. The camera catches him looking at his corner, asking questions full of self-doubt.

“Do I still have it?’’ he says. “Do I still got it?’’

Good questions, all asked by an ESPN audience that watched and wondered. It didn’t take long for Lopez to walk back the inescapable implications.

“I know I got it,” Lopez said on social media. “Remember, I give you all something to talk about now.”

The talking continues, despite Lopez’ efforts to silence it.

“I know I got it,’’ he posted. “Are you dumb or dumber?”

It’s dumb, and dumber, to not at least question whether it’s time for Lopez to find a new trainer. His father, Teofimo Lopez Sr., has always been his trainer. Yet, some tension was evident against Martin.

Before the 10^th and final round, dad ordered his son to sit down. He didn’t.

It was as if Lopez Jr.  already was wondering whether he still “had it.’’

He might. He’s likeable. His speed and power are still evident. But it’s going to take change and a lot of work. 

Same can be said for all of boxing after an up-and-down year that will probably be remembered for what didn’t happen.

That’s unfair to Dimitry Bivol, an underrated light-heavyweight who proved to be a revelation in May with his upset of Canelo Alvarez.

It’s unfair to Juan Franciso Estrada and Ramon “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, who staged a magnificent battle throughout the conclusion to a SuperFly trilogy won by Estrada in a narrow decision on Dec. 3. A crowd of about 10,000 in Glendale AZ knew it had witnessed a high-level exhibition of skill.

It’s unfair to Inoue, who on this pound-for-pound rating goes into 2023 tied at No. 1 with Crawford.

Nevertheless, 2022 will be remembered for the failed Crawford-Spence negotiations. The talks are little bit like Crawford’s gloves, a fitting symbol for a futile year. They fell apart.

Oscar Valdez Update: It’s not clear what’s next for the Phoenix boxing market, which has been busy over the last few months. Oscar Valdez Jr., a former featherweight and junior-lightweight champion, was projected for an intriguing, ESPN-televised fight against Emanuel Navarrete on Feb. 3.

The 130-pound bout was supposed to be the next biggie in Glendale AZ at Desert Diamond Arena, the site for the compelling Estrada-Chocolatito 3 a couple of weeks ago.

But Valdez was forced to withdraw because of an injury suffered while training, according to a story first reported by Boxing Scene and confirmed by 15 Rounds. Valdez, a former Mexican Olympian who went to school in Tucson, had been training in Hermosillo, according to his father, Oscar Valdez Sr.

Australian Liam Wilson has agreed to step in for Valdez, according to an ESPN report. But there is still no official announcement from Top Rank.

As of Thursday, there was still nothing listed on the Desert Diamond Arena’s calendar. It never listed the projected Valdez-Navarrete bout either.

OMAHA, NEBRASKA – (December 12, 2022) – BLK Prime is thrilled to announce that the highly-anticipated fight between Terence Crawford (39-0, 30 KOs) and David Avanesyan (29-4-1, 17 KOs) was a resounding success, with the entire event delivering an unforgettable evening in front of Crawford’s hometown crowd in Omaha, Nebraska. The fight itself was nothing short of spectacular, with Crawford delivering the knockout of the year in front of his hometown crowd.

In the co-main event, crossover combat-sports superstar Cris Cyborg defeated Gabrielle Holloway by unanimous decision in a four-round bout. This marks the first time a co-main event was a four-round women’s matchup. Add Cyborg’s legendary stature to the table, making her U.S. debut in a new sport, further highlights BLK Prime’s mission to create a more equitable platform in boxing.

BLK Prime is committed to bringing diversity to the sport of boxing at every level. A multiethnic production team was brought together to provide boxing fans from all walks of life with a top-tier show, showing everyone that BLK Prime is a platform for everyone. From the ring announcers (both Latinos of Mexican descent) to the organizers, the talent, and the fighters themselves, everyone involved came from all corners of the earth, cementing BLK Prime’s mission to provide a multiethnic-friendly platform for fans. This fight was a prime example of that commitment, with Crawford and Avanesyan and every member of the undercard bringing unique cultural backgrounds to the ring.

Early reports indicate that buys for the sold-out event exceeded initial projections on BLK Prime digital, further solidifying BLK Prime’s position as the newest and best destination for high-quality boxing content.

“As a multicultural platform, BLK Prime is dedicated to providing opportunities for everyone, and we are proud to be a pillar for diversity in the sport of boxing.” said a representative for BLK Prime. “We were honored to be the only sponsor for this event, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the fighters and their incredible talent.”

“This was an extraordinary event for us at BLK Prime. To see two diverse fighters from across the world delivering an unforgettable performance in front of a hometown crowd was truly something special. We are proud to have been a part of this magnificent event and will continue providing opportunities for athletes from all walks of life to shine on our platform.”

BLK Prime is excited to bring forth the biggest fights to boxing fans around the world and will continue its commitment to excellence.

#

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. On social media follow #BLKPrime, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

Terence Crawford retained the WBO Welterweight title with a devastating sixth round stoppage of David Aanesyan in front of a big crowd in Omaha, Nebraska.

In round six, Crawford landed a straight left and flush right hook to the jaw that sent Avanesyan down and out cold on his back and the fight was over at 2:14.

Crawford, 146.6 lbs of Omaha scored his 10th straight knockout to raise his mark to 39-0 with 30 knockouts. Avanesyan, 146.8 lbs of Pyatigorsk, RUS is 28-4-1

Terence Crawford 146.6 vs. David Avanesyan 146.8

Cris Cyborg 154 vs Gabrielle Holloway 154.6

Arnold Khegai 126 vs. Eduardo Baez 125.8

Jeremiah Milton 250.8 vs. Dajuan Calloway 387.6

Steven Nelson 174.2 vs. James Ballard 175.6

Edel Gomez 175.8 vs. Joseph Aguilar 175.6

Boubacar Sylla 144.6 vs. Javier Mayoral 144.6

Alan Garcia 135 vs. Eduardo Pereira 134.4

Robert Rodriguez 121.6 vs. Jose Lopez 120.4

Alton Alik Wiggins 155.4 vs. Phillip Carmouche 155.4

OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 8, 2022) – WBO Welterweight Champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) went face to face with WBO # 6 contender David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at a press conference on Thursday before they meet for Crawford’s WBO Welterweight Title on Saturday, December 10 headlining a BLK Prime Pay-Per-View from the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the CHI Health Center.

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“I’ve been carrying Omaha with me everywhere I go my entire life, and when I fought here in the golden glove nationals in the finals that’s when Omaha gravitated towards me. For me to continue bringing the big fights back to Omaha, means the world to me. There’s never been anything like this, I’m really excited.”

“I’m very focused and have been since day one strictly on Avanesyan. We know what he brings to the table, but we’re going to elevate it to a higher level. this Saturday we’ll be victorious, and going to have fun doing it.”

“I really can’t look at too much of who [Avanesyan] fought and how they fought each other. When [Avanesyan] and I match up we’ll be making our adjustments on the fly and we’re going to do what we do best, which is shine.”

DAVID AVANESYAN 

“This is a big fight, a huge fight. I had a great camp, and I’m going to be giving everything to win this fight. Everyone is talking about Terence, I’m not only here to win this fight decisively but to shock the world.”

“Come Sunday morning, the news will be spreading that I raised the belt, and shocked the world. I’ll be getting to go back and see my family who I haven’t seen for so long, and return home a champion.”

CRIS CYBORG

“I can’t wait for Saturday. It’s my second fight in boxing after 18 years in MMA, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity. All of my supporters, team members, and fans are all behind me, I can’t wait to make them proud.”

“I’ve been training and learning to continue my boxing career. Learning the difference between the two at first was tricky but now it’s much easier. I’m hoping this sets me up for bigger and bigger fights in the future for my boxing career, and when that comes, I’ll be ready.”

GABRIELLE HOLLOWAY

“I don’t think there’s added pressure because of my opponent’s legacy in MMA. Right now she’s my opponent so that all goes out the window.”

ARNOLD KEGHAI

“This fight is very important to me. After a great camp and great sparring, this fight is my next step to a belt. I can’t wait to get in the ring and prove that I should be next in line for a belt.”

EDUARDO BAEZ

“I’m always extra intense in studying my opponents. I think that I’m well prepared to go into Saturday, and with the favor of God we’ll get our hand raised at the end of the fight.”

JEREMIAH MILTON

“Not many know me, being that I’m so young in my career, at 7-0 with 6 KO, but it’s not always about the record. It’s about who you walk with, and I’ve had great opportunities in the sport of boxing to spar with some of the best ever, world champs, the who’s who of right now.”

“I’m happy to be in the supporting role of Terence Crawford, I know that I’m on my way up and looking to continue making a bigger name for myself in my career and it’s an honor to share the stage with the pound for pound best boxer in the world Terence Crawford. I’ll get to show him what Oklahoma does.”

DUJUAN CALLOWAY

“It’s not about my power, I’ve got skill too. I’ll be proving that Saturday night. This is a business trip, I’m here to win. I’ll be taking care of that business quickly and easily.”

STEVEN NELSON

“I was training in early 2021 and my achilles just popped. At the moment, I thought my career is over. But now, after a long road back, I’m ready to put on a great show. From the walkout to the first punch to the last punch to the bell ringing, I’m ready to go out there and win.”

“I feel bad for [Ballard], and I’m sorry you had to sign this contract. I really hope he’s ready. I’ve been training really hard for this, so he better be ready.”

JAMES BALLARD

“I’m not coming here to play any games. I’m here to sit my opponent down, knock him out, and leave no questions for the judges. There’s no reason to get in the ring with a Detroit fighter unless you’re willing to risk it all.” 

“I had the same injury [Nelson] had, but I didn’t sit back and think that I could have my career ended. I told myself if I can walk I can fight, so nothing was going to hold me back.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

White Plains, New York (December 8, 2022) – Star Boxing fighters take to the road this weekend, as Hartford, Connecticut’s own, RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (21-1 16KO’s) is on a mission of retribution in Puerto Rico on the show headlining former world champion Alberto Machado vs Edwin Valentin on Friday night (12/9). The following night (12/10) in Omaha, Nebraska, undefeated super lightweight BOUBACAR SYLLA (12-0 7KO’s) aims to tack on another victory in 2022, fighting on the undercard of multi division and undisputed world champion, Terrance Crawford vs David Avanesyan.

RICHARD ‘POPEYE’ RIVERA

On Friday night (12/9) Richie Rivera, affectionately known as “Popeye,” will face off with Argentinian ARIEL BOSCONCEL (13-3-1 12KO’s) at the Coliseo Pedrin Zorrilla in San Juan, Puerto Rico on ProBox TV in an 8 round 185 lb. bout. Rivera saw his acclaim rise after fighting former world champion, BADOU JACK, on the undercard of Joshua-Uysk 2 this past August in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In a fight that was draped in controversy Rivera commanded the respect of the boxing world for his performance, even though the judges somehow saw otherwise. In a bout that included an 8th round that ran 58 seconds long and finished with a highly questionable 10 round split decision in Jacks favor, Rivera will only allow the Jack fight to fuel his return to the ring Friday night.

Rivera had this to say about the bout, “Popeye el marino soy, TOOT TOOT! Can’t wait to show out on Friday. I am super blessed and orgulloso de tener esta oportunidad! Ahora si quetate tu pa poner me yo.” Translated , Rivera stated “I am Popeye the Sailor Man, TOOT TOOT! Can’t wait to show out on Friday. I am super blessed and proud to have this opportunity. Get out of the way, now it’s my turn.”

BOUBACAR SYLLA

On Saturday night (12/10) at the Chi Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, undefeated super lightweight Boubacar Sylla of Cincinnati, Ohio will take on Javier Mayoral (4-2 1KO) in a six-round super lightweight bout. Sylla who is coming off a victory in April, looks to close out 2022 with a pristine 13-0 record- but this fight is more than just another possible notch in the win column for Sylla. His dream of fighting on the samecard of his friend and training partner, World Champ and P4P Star, Terrance Crawford, becomes a reality on Saturday night. The fight will stream live on ppv.blkprime.com.

Sylla shared his thoughts on the fight, “I have always wanted to fight on a Crawford undercard and I am excited to make that a reality. This will be a great way to close out the year with another victory and then focus on a big 2023. Thanks to my trainer BoMac, Star Boxing and BLK Prime for the opportunity.”

The Rivera-Bosconcel bout will take place on December 9, in San Juan, Puerto Rico and is promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

The Sylla-Mayoral bout will take place on December 10 in Omaha, Nebraska and is promoted by BLK PRIME and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

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OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 7, 2022) – Pound-for-pound king, WBO Welterweight Champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs), WBO # 6 contender David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs), superstar Cris Cyborg (1-0, 1 KO), and undefeated light heavyweight prospect, Steven Nelson (17-0, 14 KOs), held a media workout in Omaha, Nebraska ahead of their BLK Prime Pay-Per-View event taking place at the CHI Health Center on December 10.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the B & B Boxing Academy.

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“Training was great, we had an awesome training camp, and pre-camp before we went to Colorado Springs. My thing is to keep doing what I’ve been doing, which is winning in a tremendous fashion, and everything else will fall into place.”

“I’m getting restless thinking about Saturday, it’s a job that I’ve done for a long time and as used to it as I am, I’m still really excited about this one in my hometown. I’m sure there will be a lot of first-time boxing fans who haven’t been able to see me live, and they’ll get the opportunity to see me right in their backyards.”

“My camp is like a family, when one fights, we all fight. There are four of us on this card, which is great for us, but at the same time, it gets us pushing each other that much harder. We’re able to make sure each one of us is healthy, prepared mentally and physically, and ready to go out there and perform at our best.”

DAVID AVANESYAN

“I’m going into this fight with a lot to prove as no one is giving me a chance to win, but he has a lot on his plate. He’s got a lot of distractions, and none of the interviewers ask him about me. It is always about the fight that didn’t happen or other stuff. I am more focused than ever, and coming in as a massive underdog, is just the way I like it. I was in camp already and got to extend my camp for a month or so, which was perfect. I will be the mentally stronger fighter on Dec.10th.”

“A win against the #1 pound-for-pound fighter in boxing, will make one of the biggest names in the sport. I would become a household name and a top-5 pound-for-pound fighter. These are motivations, I get to take everything Crawford worked for, and I will.” Beating Terence Crawford will change my life forever. I am better than ever, and I am about to be the one that everyone in boxing talks about.”

CRIS CYBORG

It’s my second boxing fight, my first was in Brazil and it was a great experience. I always like to think it’s best to keep myself ready, a fight can come up at any time, and I’m able to take on these fights because I stay ready. I’m really excited about Saturday, getting another chance in the boxing ring will be great. 

I think one of my strengths for my entire 18-year MMA career is that I am always looking to knock opponents out and I always have to defend takedowns in MMA. Now in boxing, I don’t have to worry about those takedown moves. In terms of power, I definitely have that punching power. I know the stance is different in boxing from MMA, but I always was prepared with the fight stance in MMA.

STEVEN NELSON

“It’s my first fight since I tore my achilles, my first fight in 26 months. I’ve been putting an extra focus on my rest, recovery, and taking care of my body with the same level of attention as I have on my training. Being 17-0 with 14 knockouts, I’m feeling really strong going into Saturday, very prepared, and excited to defend my undefeated record against Ballard.”

“I’m so excited to be back at home. After two years off, it’s going to be a special night. I’m going to make my mom proud. When my hand goes up after the final bell rings, I’ll know she’s going to be proud.”

“Omaha has the best fans in the world. Whether they’re boxing fans or not, I know that Omaha will show up and show out for Bud (Terence) and me. It’s going to be a big party when the hometown stars keep the wins rolling in.”

“It’s so special to be a part of the launch of BLK Prime into boxing. I feel like a pioneer, me and Bud and everyone on the card pioneered BLK Prime. It’s the first event, looking like it’ll be a sellout, it’s going to be an awesome night. I’m looking forward to it. To all the other boxers out there, BLK Prime takes care of its people, takes care of its fighters. From the negotiations to everything, even today’s media workout, it’s different from the others and they really care for their people.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 6, 2022) – Welterweight sensation and current pound-for-pound king, Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs), will look to finish 2022 on a high note as he takes on the WBO #6 ranked challenger, David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs). The fight takes place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10. Crawford is back in his hometown, fresh off his training camp in Colorado, Springs, and he’s eager to show the world why he’s the best fighter in boxing.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Here is what Crawford had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with David Avanesyan, fight on BLK Prime at home, and more:

On his recent training camp: 

“It is business as usual. It’s great to have a fight date and a goal to work toward.  I have a solid group of guys who are pushing me every single day, and we had a close-knit community during camp. This was one of my best camps, and I am motivated to put on a show for my fans in Omaha, who have had my back from the start of my career.”

On his matchup with David Avanesyan:

“David Avanesyan is a good fighter. He’s on a good winning streak, and beat a guy in the U.K., in Josh Kelly who people thought was going to be a star. I have to train like I am facing King Kong on December 10th, because Avanesyan has everything to gain and nothing to lose. I know he is going to bring everything on December 10th, so I’m not looking past him. This will be the best Avanesyan, so I have to be the best Terence Crawford.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“My goal is to remind the world that world I am the best fighter on the planet so everyone needs to tune in December 10 on this new BLK Prime PPV platform. I am fighting not just to be the best, but to give fighters fair and equitable treatment in negotiations moving forward.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 5, 2022) – Brazilian MMA superstar, Cris Cyborg, is all set to make her U.S. boxing debut on BLK Prime PPV, when she squares off against Gabrielle Holloway on the Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) vs. David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) card, live from the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Here is what Cyborg had to say about her recent training camp, her matchup with Gabby Halloway, fighting on BLK Prime PPV, and more.

On her recent training camp:

“Things are going great. Boxing is a lot different than MMA, but the hard work stays consistent. The biggest difference is the time. The rounds go so fast, I only have two minutes to win the round. So, the big thing I worked on is focusing on starting quickly. I have given this camp my all, and I am expecting to win.”

On her matchup with Gabby Holloway:

“I am fighting a tough opponent. Gabby Halloway has never been stopped and fought someone I knew in Raquel Miller. She hasn’t been the most active but has been around the game for a long time, and has more experience than me, as a pro boxer. I am not overlooking her at all. I want to keep up a good pace and apply a lot of pressure.”

On what a win will do for her career:

“I want to be able to fight against the big names in the sport of boxing. I want to compete and challenge myself against the best of this era, and to do so it all starts on a win on December 10th. A win puts me in a great position.”

On fighting on BLK Prime PPV:

“I was a part of women’s MMA when it was a new thing, and BLK Prime gives me the same feeling as some of the great companies like Strikeforce, when I was on my rise. I want to headline a card on BLK Prime in the future and I am excited that they are allowing the fighters to take control of their career. The fans must support this event, and bring in a new age of boxing.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 5, 2022) – The biggest fight to end the year between the best fighter in the world, WBO welterweight world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) taking on David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) in a PPV showdown, that will take place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, now has an official broadcast team.

Lupe Contreras will serve as the ring announcer, Zab Judah will offer behind-the-scenes insight and backstage interviews, Todd Grisham will lead the commentary crew with BWAA award-winning broadcast journalist Paulie Malignaggi, along with former world champion Antonio Tarver. Cheyenne McCargo will serve as the undercard scoring voice to conclude the crew. 

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on BLK Prime and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

Lupe Contreras, a veteran ring announcer of over 20 years, has called some of the biggest fights the sport has seen. Traveling to every realm of the globe to introduce the best pugilists in the world, when Contreras calls a fight, you know it is a big deal!

Todd Grisham has been innovating sports entertainment broadcasts from the WWE, to being a staple of the DAZN boxing crew, Grisham is becoming one of the iconic figures in the sport, and will be guiding the action on Saturday.

Paulie Malignaggi is a former two-division world champion holding the IBF super lightweight title, as well as the WBA welterweight title. Malignaggi transitioned into the field of commentary in the past decade, in which he was quickly regarded as one of the best young voices in broadcast journalism, and his vibrant personality has earned him a close connection with the fans. 

Antonio Tarver is a five-time light heavyweight champion, holding the WBC and IBF titles two times, and the WBA title for good measure. Tarver has been in some of the greatest fights, and is now calling some of the modern great bouts on BLK Prime.

Zab Judah is a former two-division, six-time world champion holding the IBF light welterweight title on two different occasions, as well as the WBO light welterweight title, the WBA, WBC, and IBF welterweight world titles. Judah is widely considered one of the best fighters of his era and was the last undisputed champion at welterweight.

Cheyenne McCargo is a popular YouTuber, with thousands tuning into his daily livestreams. McCargo will offer the voice of the fans for the BLK Prime broadcast, scoring the undercard bouts. 

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 4, 2022) – Featherweight Arnold Khegai (18-1-1, 11 KOs), of Lymanske, Ukraine, is ready to make his PPV debut on the Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) vs. David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) card, live on BLK Prime from the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Here is what Khaegai had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with Eduardo Baez, fighting on BLK Prime PPV, and more.

On his recent training camp: 

“I’ve been waiting for this type of moment for my whole career, and I am thankful to BLK Prime for putting me on this card. I am giving it my all in the gym, and I’ve had some incredible sparring partners to get me ready for this fight. I’m in tremendous shape and I’ll be ready to fight at my best on fight night.”

On his matchup with Eduardo Baez:

“He is a very good fighter. Baez is the type of guy who could be a world champion. I thought he was beating Emanuel Navarrete until he got caught. This is the type of fight that puts me in the conversation as a top contender in my division. I think we are going to give the fans the best fight of the night.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“I would hope a win could bring in good fights with guys I’d like to face such as Robeisy Ramirez, Isaac Dogboe, and other top fighters. I’d like to face the best fighters, and a big win over a credible opponent like Baez should open the door for those types of moments in my career. 

On fighting on BLK Prime PPV:

“I am big on streaming because everyone with a device or TV can easily watch the fight. I am excited to be part of the future of boxing with BLK Prime. I have told everyone about it, and they’re excited that I am ushering in a new era of boxing.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 2 , 2022) – Undefeated prospect Steven Nelson (17-0, 14 KOs), of Omaha, NE, is ready to square off against James Ballard (10-4, 3 KOs), on the Crawford vs. Avanesyan card taking place at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10. Nelson vs. Ballard is scheduled for eight rounds in the light heavyweight division. 

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Nelson is fighting for the first time since a TKO victory over DeAndre Ware in September of 2020 following a torn Achilles tendon. A U.S. Army veteran, Nelson spent eight years working in satellite communications with the 7^th Special Forces Group and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2008-2009. He then joined the Army’s World Class Athlete Program boxing team and was stationed in Colorado Springs prior to beginning his professional career.

He is training alongside his lifelong friend and fellow Omaha native Crawford in their Colorado Springs training base in preparation for December 10. Here is what Nelson had to say about his training camp, his matchup with Ballard, fighting at home on BLK Prime PPV, and more.

On his recent training camp: 

“Training camp has been going great. This is one of many camps that we’ve done together in Colorado Springs, but seeing how motivated Bud is and how hard he pushed us has made this camp really special for all of us. I’m coming off a torn Achilles that had me sidelined for two years, so I cannot wait to step back in the ring. It really feels like it is our team against the world. Bud and the coaches have made me step up my game. If you aren’t strong enough, you are not going to make it in this camp.”

On his matchup with James Ballard:

“I am going to smash Ballard, respectfully of course. I have had some setbacks, but I am one of the best fighters in my division. I am looking to win this fight and go after fighters like Edgar Berlanga and many others who have been avoiding me. I am taking Ballard extremely seriously, but I fully expect to stop him.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“Once I am victorious on December 10, I want all the top contenders in the division. But to do so, I have to put on a great performance in Omaha and remind the boxing world who I am. This reminds me of how I felt prior to the Reyes Diaz fight when I stopped him. He basically retired after that fight, and that is the type of performance I am going to do on December 10th. I am going to win and target all the big-name fighters.”

On fighting on BLK Prime PPV at home:

“This is the first time I’ll be fighting on PPV, so I’m very excited. Seeing the type of love BLK Prime is showing Bud, made me a fan. They’re putting the fighters first, and I know the fans will get behind them, because they have good intentions and are paying the fighters for risking their lives. Getting the chance to fight at home on this BLK Prime PPV card is a blessing. I’m expecting a lot of hometown supporters and people I have met worldwide during my military career to be in attendance. The CHI Health Center is going to be electrifying on fight night.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA