*QUOTES RAMIREZ VS. BARTHELEMY |ORTIZ VS. DULORME DOUBLEHEADER FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE

FRESNO, CALIF. (April 25, 2024) – U.S. Olympian and former unified super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez (28-1, 18 KOs) and undefeated knockout monster and super welterweight world title contender Vergil Ortiz Jr. (20-0, 20 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas hosted their final press conference in Fresno, California. Joined by other members of the undercard, they discussed their upcoming doubleheader on Saturday, April 27 featuring Jose Ramirez vs. Rances Barthelemy and Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Thomas Dulorme. The event will take place live from the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California, and broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Also on the undercard is the collision course of the mighty Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (26-2-1, 21 KOs) and U.S. Olympian and former world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (33-5-1, 15 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight match. In the night’s championship clash, Unified WBA, WBC, WBO and Ring Magazine Flyweight World Champion Marlen Esparza (14-1, 1 KOs) will put her titles on the line yet again in a bad-blood rematch against the former WBC Champ of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Gabriela “La Chucky” Alaniz (14-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round championship bout. Opening the DAZN broadcast, NABF Welterweight Title Holder Raul “El Cugar” Curiel (14-0, 12 KOs) will defend his regional title against Jorge Marron Jr. (20-4-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round affair.

On the preliminary card, Madera, Calif.’s Brian Lua (8-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a six-round lightweight fight against Cancun, Mexico’s Ronaldo “Criminal” Solis (4-4-1, 3 KOs). Figo Gonzalez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Dallas, Texas will square up in a four-round super flyweight fight against Modesto, Calif.’s Alejandro Robles (0-2). On the preliminary card and making her highly anticipated professional debut, Jennah “The Gem” Creason of Visalia, California will make a splash in a four-round welterweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent.

Tickets are on sale and are priced at $225, $150, $100, $65 and $40 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
JOSE RAMIREZ, U.S. OLYMPIAN AND FORMER UNIFIED WORLD CHAMPION:
“First of all I want to thank God. It’s always nice to see such amazing stars; my 2012 Olympic Teammates and great fighters like Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Oscar Duarte on the undercard. It’s quite an honor for me to be a part of boxing, and to be a part of boxing in the Central Valley. We’re thankful for all the fans, we’re thankful for all the supporters and the sponsors.

“I am ready for this Saturday. My goal is to get back on top and to get all those belts back. I still feel like I am one of the best 140-pounders in the division. I plan on making a statement on Saturday, and that’s what I was working on in the gym. Thank you to Oscar and to Golden Boy for the opportunity.”
VERGIL ORTIZ, JR., UNDEFEATED SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I don’t have too much to say right now. All everyone should know is that we had a great training camp, trained hard, and had incredible sparring. I like running – I ran a lot. I really don’t have anything else to say aside from that I love Fresno, and I can’t wait for you all to come out and watch our fights come Saturday night.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:
“We have an absolutely stacked card Saturday night in Fresno. We have a slew of top prospects looking to advance to contender status. We have world championship gold on the line in the Women’s flyweight division. We have a true crossroads match between two longtime Golden Boy fighters looking to rebound and get back on the championship track. And we have two of the best and best-known boxers in the world topping the card in separate fights, looking to impress and take another step towards glory. From top-to-bottom, people aren’t going to miss this barnburner of a Golden Boy card.”

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Ramirez vs. Barthelemy is a 12-round super lightweight fight. Ortiz Jr. vs. Dulorme is a 10-round super welterweight fight. The event will take place on Saturday, April 27 on DAZN live from Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #RamirezBarthelemy




U.S. OLYMPIAN AND FORMER UNIFIED WORLD CHAMPION JOSE RAMIREZ TO MAKE GOLDEN BOY DEBUT IN HOMECOMING FIGHT AGAINST RANCES BARTHELEMY

FRESNO, Calif. (March 26, 2024) – Golden Boy will continue its streak of providing fight fans an unprecedented 2024 fight schedule with the announcement today of a massive doubleheader on Saturday, April 27 featuring two of the brightest lights in boxing. Jose Ramirez vs. Rances Barthelemy and Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Thomas Dulorme will be one of the biggest boxing shows yet in the Central Valley, and will take place live from the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California, and broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for the public on sale for the event begins Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $225, $150, $100, $65 and $40 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. A special pre-sale will be available through Ticketmaster beginning today, March 26 from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. PT with code: GBPFRESNO.

In the main event, making his Golden Boy debut in front of his hometown crowd of Fresno, U.S. Olympian and former unified super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez (28-1, 18 KOs) will make his long-awaited return to the ring against Rances Barthelemy (30-2-1, 15 KOs) of Las Vegas. Ramirez will be performing for the first time since March 2023, when he secured a dominant knockout victory over Richard Commey in a WBC world title eliminator fight. The main event is presented in association with TGB Promotions.

“I’m excited and honored to be working with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Jose Ramirez. “I know this next chapter of my career will be full of excitement as I chase to be the best and fight the best.”

“I’m very excited and fully focused on April 27th; I’m ready to bring the heat against Ramirez,” said Rances Barthelemy. “This fight isn’t just about victory…it’s about earning another world title shot so I can accomplish my goal of becoming a three-division world champion. Get ready for fireworks, Fresno!”

In a very special co-main event, the undefeated knockout monster Vergil Ortiz Jr. (20-0, 20 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas, will measure up against Thomas Dulorme (26-6-1, 17 KOs) of Carolina, Puerto Rico in a 10-round super welterweight fight. Ortiz Jr. is a fight away from an opportunity for a world championship and is returning to the ring after a colossal, first-round knockout this past January 6 in Las Vegas.

“I have spent a few weeks in Fresno in 2023 and I grew to love the city,” said Vergil Ortiz Jr. “I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans out there, and I am content that we are staying active. 2024 is looking to be a great year for me.”

“I’ve been waiting for another big fight and this is exactly what I have wanted,” said Thomas Dulorme. “Vergil is a good fighter. I know him very well from years of training alongside him. One thing I can say is that the fans are going to get an all-out war!”

“I am thrilled to announce this doubleheader coming to Fresno’s Save Mart Center on Saturday, April 27,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “Both Jose and Vergil are knocking on the door of world championships, but to get to that next level, they will need to get past two guys who have faced the best of the best during their careers. With these two stars appearing atop the kind of stacked card the Golden Boy delivers on each and every show, April 27 is going to be a night to remember.”

“Another huge night of boxing for our subscribers at DAZN,” said Alfie Sharman, VP of DAZN. “From April 20 through June 1, we have an unmatched run of shows around the world from Haney vs. Garcia, to this Ramirez and Ortiz doubleheader to the return of Canelo to the platform in an all-Mexican affair for the ages. All live on DAZN.”

“Rances Barthelemy is already one of Cuba’s most accomplished fighters and he has a great opportunity for a signature victory that will put him in a position to be his country’s first three-division world champion,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “I expect him to put on a great performance and leave with his hand raised on April 27.”

“This is the biggest fight card to hit the #559; this is the Golden Boy Debut of Jose Ramirez and Vergil Ortiz Jr.’s first appearance in the Central Valley,” said Rick Mirigian, manager to Ramirez and Ortiz Jr. “It’s truly an honor to help promote this event.”

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Ramirez vs. Barthelemy is a 12-round super lightweight fight. Ortiz Jr. vs. Dulorme is a 10-round super welterweight fight. The event will take place on Saturday, April 27 on DAZN live from Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #RamirezBarthelemy 




Thomas Dulorme Sends Letter to NSAC Disputing Result of his Bout Against Jaron Ennis

LAS VEGAS, NV (November 15, 2021) – Welterweight contender, Thomas Dulorme (25-6-1, 16 KOs), has officially submitted a letter to the Nevada State Athletic Commission, disputing the result of his bout against Jaron Ennis (28-0, 26 KOs), in which he claims he was hit with an illegal rabbit punch to the back of the head. The fight took place at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday, October 30, 2021.

Dulorme respectfully requests that the Nevada State Athletic Commission overturn the knockout loss to a no decision due to the referee’s outcome-determinative error.

Prior the bout, the assigned in-ring referee, Mike Ortiz, instructed the fighters that a punch to the back of an opponent’s head would constitute an illegal blow subject to penalty, as codified under:
?
NAC?467.675?Acts constituting fouls in boxing.
The following acts constitute fouls in boxing:
12.?Using a rabbit punch or otherwise striking an opponent on the back of the head, the base of the skull or the back of the neck.
Dulorme and Ennis affirmed that they understood the rule. However, at the one-minute mark of the first round, Ennis threw a right hook that landed squarely to the back of Dulorme’s head. Despite his spirited efforts, the illegal blow rendered Dulorme dazed, unbalanced, and physically incapable of adequately defending himself against his opponent. Consequently, Dulorme was knocked down a second time 49 seconds later and could not rise to his feet before being counted out by Mr. Ortiz.

“I feel I wasn’t given the allocated time to recover by the referee, after getting hit from what was clearly an illegal rabbit punch to the back on my head, forcing me to fight at a disadvantage,” said Dulorme. “Jaron Ennis is a great fighter and I’m not taking anything away from his talent, I’m just disputing that I should have been given the allotted time to regain my composure. I’m hoping that Nevada State Athletic Commission will honor my appeal based on their rules.”




Butaev Stops James in 7; Wins WBA Welterweight Title

Radzhab Butaev captured the WBA Lightweight title with a 7th round stoppage over Jamal James at The Michelob Ultra Arena inside the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

In round five, Butaev was deducted a point for hitting James from behind.

In round seven, Butaev landed a series of punches but it did not seem James was in serious trouble, but referee Celestino Ruiz stopped the fight at 2:12.

Ennis Destroys Dulorme in 1

Jaron Ennis remained the hottest contender in the sport as he destroyed former world title challenger Thomas Dulorme inside of a round of a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout.

Ennis dropped Dulorme with a hard chopping right hand. Dulorme got up to land a couple punches, but he then he ate a big straight left that sent him to the canvas for a 2nd time. Dulorme tried to get up, but was unable to beat referee Michael Ortega’s count at 1:49.

Ennis, 146.6 lbs of Philadelphia is 28-0 with 26 knockouts. Dulorme, 146 lbs of Puerto Rico is 25-6-1.

Rivera Decisions Romero

Michel Rivera remained undefeated by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Matias Romero in a lightweight fight.

Rivera outlanded Romero 202 to 106.

Rivera, 138 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 22-0. Romero, 135.4 lbs or Cordoba, ARG is now 24-2.




JAMAL JAMES VS. RADZHAB BUTAEV FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (October 28, 2021) – WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James and unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev went face-to-face at a final press conference Thursday before they meet in the SHOWTIME main event this Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Thursday’s press conference also featured undefeated rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis and veteran contender Thomas Dulorme, who meet in the co-main event, plus exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera and Argentina’s Matías Romero, who square off to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JAMAL JAMES

“We’re at the top level here. Everyone on this stage is a top-level fighter. We’re all going to bring our very best Saturday night.

“At this level, everyone hits hard. We’re not fighting cupcakes. Every opponent you get in there with, can hurt you. I’ve been in there with guys who hit extremely hard, and I beat them. It’s nothing new to me.

“We’re here in Las Vegas headlining on SHOWTIME and it’s time for me to let people know that I’ve been at this top level. I want to get those opportunities against the top fighters. The welterweight division is stacked. We have a bunch of great talent and it’s time for some new guys to get their names up there.

“I’m not overlooking Butaev. I have to get past this fight first. But I want to run that back against Yordenis Ugas. He’s a great fighter. I didn’t have a full camp when I fought against him. I don’t like to make excuses – because he was the better man that night. But I think if we both have full camps, it could definitely be a different story.

“I’m not ducking anybody. I want to win Ugas’ title and make there one WBA champion. I definitely would be ready to take on Ennis or whoever it is after that.

“I’m just happy to have this opportunity to get back in the ring. I’m going to listen to my corner and follow through with their instructions. I trust them with my life. If they tell me to be offensive or if they tell me to box, I trust them.

“Representing my city of Minneapolis gives me extreme motivation. When you look at the history of boxing, it’s a sport that brings people together during hard times. It gives people the chance to take their minds off serious trouble they’re dealing with. My city has shown me a lot of love and that gives me extra motivation.”

RADZHAB BUTAEV

“I’ve had a lot of experience in the amateurs and pros. I believe in myself and I believe in my experience. We had a great camp and everything went as planned. On Saturday, I’m here to prove that I’m the next world champion in this division.

“I believe that everything I’ve been through will be the difference in this fight. Fighters have different advantages against different opponents, but the most important advantage is the will for victory. I believe that my will is at the highest level.

“I had a long amateur career, but now that I’m working with Joel Diaz as my trainer, we’re working more on the professional style. I’m working on sitting down on my punches and loading up a little bit more.

“We’re going to bring the action to the ring. That’s what the fans love. I’m bringing that Mexican style. Fans love brawls and that’s what we’re working on. I’m ready to bring the war to the ring.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen in the ring, but I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. I don’t know exactly what he’s going to do, but I’ll be prepared for it.”

JARON ENNIS

“Dulorme said he has experience, but I’ve been boxing all of my life, since before I could walk. I’ve sparred pros since I was 12. This is nothing new to me and he’s going to see that on Saturday night.

“I’m going to continue to do what I’ve been doing, and that’s putting on dominating performances. Everyone knows I’m in and out like a robbery.

“On Saturday night, you can expect fireworks. I’m going to look good and come out victorious in knockout fashion. We’re not looking for the knockout, but we’re going to let it come naturally. And it’s definitely going to come.

“I feel great at welterweight. I can make 147 as long as I want. I’m on weight right now. I’ll be ready to rock and roll Saturday night. Once I get all these belts, then I’ll start thinking about 154 pounds.

“I feel like I’m the most talented welterweight in the division. I’m great at everything. I can fight from either side and I can box or fight on the inside. A lot of guys don’t want to prepare for someone who can do all that I can do. After I make this statement on Saturday night, I’m ready to keep moving up the ladder.

“I’m from Philly, so everyone knows I have that dog in me. It’s been in me. I’m ready to go and move on to bigger and better things.

“I watched some of Dulorme’s fight against Eimantas Stanionis, but I’m not Stanionis. I’m a whole different fighter. Talent wise, skill wise, power wise. I’m on a whole different level. Watching me is one thing, but when you’re in there with me, it’s a whole different thing.

“I’m not worried about what Dulorme did against other fighters. I’m going to do me, and put on a beautiful performance for everyone watching. I’m coming home victorious with that knockout.”

THOMAS DULORME

“I’m very thankful for my team for getting me on this big card. I’m ready for this fight on Saturday night and I’m going to put on a great performance and surprise everyone.

“You don’t always need strength in boxing to overcome obstacles. You need experience and technique. I believe I have those attributes and that it’s going to help me come out on top. I’ve sparred all the best and I’m going to use it in my fight

“On Saturday it’s going to be different because I’m putting in great work, day after day to be ready. We’ve been training to climb back up to the elite. After Saturday, we’ll be back on top of the world again.

“Ennis is a good fighter. But his best win was against Sergey Lipinets, who was a 140-pounder. I don’t think he has the experience yet to overcome a fighter like myself.”

MICHEL RIVERA

“I’ve been training hard for this moment. I know I have to stay in control during this fight. I’m staying focused. I’ve been working hard to show that I’m the future of boxing.

“I know Romero has good experience, but he’s standing in my way. I want to win this fight and get to big fights. I’m going to be the king of 135 pounds. None of the other contenders are going to want to fight me.

“This is a guy [Romero] with experience. I have heavy hands, everyone knows, but I have conditioning too. I’m ready for 15 rounds. I’m just on another level than him. Everyone will know this on Saturday night.”

MATIAS ROMERO

“I learned against Isaac Cruz how to fight here on this stage and what it’s like to fight here in the U.S. This time I’m way better prepared. I got the experience from 12 rounds and I learned a lot. I’m going to be even better in this fight.

“We know each other well and I believe I have everything I need to walk out with the victory. I’m going to listen to my coach and make sure I stay focused from the first round until the end.

“I had a very short camp for my last fight. I prepared as well as I could. I had a much longer and better camp this time. It’s going to be a different performance, and everyone is going to see what I can do.”

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ABOUT JAMES VS. BUTAEV
James vs. Butaev will see WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.

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




JARON “BOOTS” ENNIS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

NEW YORK – October 20, 2021 – Exciting unbeaten welterweight sensation Jaron “Boots” Ennis will look to make it 26 knockouts in 28 fights when he faces veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the 10-round co-main event live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) Saturday, October 30 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Ennis (27-0, 25 KOs), who has steadily risen in the ranks since his pro debut in 2016, faces another tough welterweight opponent in Dulorme after previously stopping former champion Sergey Lipinets in April. Dulorme, a 147-pound contender and former 140-pound title challenger, has amassed a solid resume in his career, climbing into the ring with world champions Yordenis Ugas, Jessie Vargas and Terence Crawford.

Named the 2020 Prospect of the Year by Ring Magazine, Ennis is trained by his father Bozy Ennis at Bozy’s Dungeon in his hometown of boxing-rich Philadelphia, Pa.

“My dad has me working on some new things to get better,” said the 24-year-old who boasts sublime boxing skills and power in both hands. “We’re working on having me be more relaxed in there and just staying sharp and alert, using my jab and going to the body a lot more. I never look for the knockout. I just go in there and do what I’m supposed to do and I let the knockout come to me, which it usually does.”

Ennis is currently ranked IBF No. 3, WBO and WBA No. 5 and WBC No. 8 at 147 pounds, and he believes that a title shot isn’t far away. He sees his latest opponent as just another obstacle in the way of reaching his ultimate goal.

“Dulorme is a good fighter and I don’t take anything away from him,” Ennis said. “He’s fought a lot of great guys, world champions, but I’m on a different level right now. I’m coming to take over the welterweight division and he’s in my way. He’s got to go. I’m coming for all the belts.”

With Ennis’ last three fights, including the no-contest against Chris van Heerden, all coming inside “The Fight Sphere” at Mohegan Sun, he is excited to fight out west for the first time in the Boxing Capital of the World as a profesional. Ennis does have fond memories of the city, however, having won Gold at the 2015 National Golden Gloves in Las Vegas.

“That’s a really fun memory, especially because I won the whole tournament,” he said. “I love Vegas. It’s the home of boxing, but honestly, I have so many fans from Philly coming out to this fight that it’s going to feel like I’m fighting at home. I would love to keep fighting in Vegas, bring my Philly people out, and make it like a second home.”

As the next in line amongst future Philadelphia-born world champions, Ennis takes great pride in his hometown and sees lots of boxing potential brewing in the City of Brotherly Love. “I definitely see a lot of other great prospects in Philly. There are even some amateurs that are about to turn pro that are great prospects. Philly has a lot of firepower and great guys coming up in the ranks right now. I feel like Philly is going to take over the boxing world.”

Ennis made his SHOWTIME debut in 2018 on ShoBox: The New Generation, scoring a third-round TKO over Armando Alvarez. Ennis has continued his progression on SHOWTIME, including in his last fight in April, when Ennis passed the most significant test of his career with flying colors, becoming the first fighter to stop Lipinets. Still, the rising star isn’t satisfied.

“It’s wonderful that I’m getting more and more recognition, but that’s not what I do this for. I’m just ready to take over the entire division. I promise this is just the start for me.”

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ABOUT JAMES VS. BUTAEV
James vs. Butaev will see WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.

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




WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal James Battles Undefeated Contender Radzhab Butaev on SHOWTIME® Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions Event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (October 13, 2021) – WBA Welterweight Champion Jamal “Shango” James will defend his title against unbeaten contender Radzhab Butaev in a 12-round duel that headlines a night of action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 30 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis in a 10-round showdown against veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, exciting unbeaten lightweight contender Michel Rivera faces Argentina’s Matías Romero in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Ennis vs. Dulorme is promoted in association with D&D Boxing. Rivera vs. Romero is promoted in association with Sampson Boxing.

“A stacked lineup of top contenders and up-and-coming future champions will be on full display October 30 on SHOWTIME in Las Vegas,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jamal James has battled his way to the highest levels of the welterweight division and will get one step closer to gathering elite status if he can overcome the unbeaten Radzhab Butaev. The undercard bouts will also feature two rising stars, as Jaron Ennis and Michel Rivera look to impress in tough matchups on a big stage.”

Minneapolis’ James (27-1, 12 KOs) returns to action after his previous outing saw him earn an interim title by defeating Thomas Dulorme in August 2020, before later being upgraded to the “regular” championship. The 33-year-old is riding a seven-bout winning streak that includes triumphs over Abel Ramos, Diego Gabriel Chaves and Antonio DeMarco, with four of those matchups coming in his hometown, where he has grown a rabid fan base. With a win on October 30, James moves nearer to a potential rematch of his first and only defeat against WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugas.

“Training is and has been at 100%,” said James. “I’m excited to finally get back in the ring and defend my title. This will be the fight where I show everyone why I’m elite in this profession and should be recognized as one of the best.”

The 27-year-old Butaev (13-0, 10 KOs) will finally square off against James in a long-awaited matchup ordered by the WBA. Butaev turned pro after approximately 400 amateur bouts in 2016 and reeled-off KOs in six of his first seven outings. Originally from Russia and now fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y., Butaev returned to the ring in December 2020, stopping previously unbeaten Terry Chatwood in the third round.

“We’ve been working hard for a year leading up to this fight,” said Butaev. “Everything is going really well in camp and we’re excited to finally get in the ring against James. I’ve seen how James fights and it’s definitely going to be a clash of styles. I can just promise that I’m going to bring the war and make this an exciting fight. I’m going to start writing my history on October 30.”

Ennis (27-0, 25 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on ShoBox: The New Generation, the 24-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast in his last outing in April, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. The knockout victory gave Ennis 17 KOs in his last 18 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.

“I’m glad to be back in the ring October 30 on SHOWTIME in Las Vegas,” said Ennis. “This is another step towards becoming world champion! They haven’t seen nothing yet. It’s time for me to continue to shine and be great. I can’t wait to show out and have some fun.”

The 31-year-old Dulorme (25-5-1, 16 KOs) has amassed a solid resume at 140 and 147 pounds during his career, climbing into the ring with world champions Yordenis Ugas, Jessie Vargas and Terence Crawford. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, followed by a narrow decision loss to Ugas. The world title challenger is coming off solid efforts in back-to-back decision losses against Jamal James and Eimantas Stanionis.

“I think in the Stanionis fight I demonstrated that I am still at the top level,” said Dulorme. “A lot of people told me I won that fight and I thought I did too. I’m excited to face Ennis because he’s a good fighter, but he hasn’t fought anyone like me. The fans can expect another great performance from me on SHOWTIME.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Fla. Rivera (21-0, 14 KOs) burst onto the scene in 2019, making his U.S. debut with a victory over Juan Rene Tellez. The 23-year-old continued his ascent in 2020, adding a stoppage win against Fidel Maldonado Jr. and a unanimous decision triumph against lightweight contender LaDarius Miller. Rivera has continued his dominance with a pair of knockout victories in 2021, stopping Anthony Mercado in February before most recently delivering a highlight-reel knockout of Jon Fernandez in July on SHOWTIME.

“Romero made a big mistake taking this fight,” said Rivera. “What he’s seen from me in the gym, is not the same thing that he’s going to see on fight night. He is far from a fight night fighter. He folds under pressure or runs. He is a good fighter, but he’s not at my level. I won’t let him go the distance like Isaac Cruz did. On October 30, I’m going to give him the beating of his lifetime.”

Romero (24-1, 8 KOs) made his stateside debut in March, dropping a competitive decision to top lightweight contender Isaac Cruz on SHOWTIME. Previously, the Cordoba, Argentina native picked up a pair of victories in 2020, winning a 12-round decision over Javier Jose Clavero in November, while stopping Gabriel Gustavo Ovejero in March. A pro since 2015, the 25-year-old will look to bounce back from his first defeat and move into title contention against another elite 135-pound opponent.

“Rivera and I have the same promoter and I personally requested for Sampson Lewkowicz to let me fight him when I saw he had no opponent,” said Romero. “I am willing to step in because I know I can beat him. We have trained at the same gym, but never sparred. His style is perfect for my style. This is going to be another victory for me to add to my collection.”

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




AUDIO: Eimantas Stanonis Post fight media conference after win over Thomas Dulorme






VIDEO: Eimantas Stanonis Post fight media conference after win over Thomas Dulorme




Ennis Takes out Lipinets in 6

Jaron Ennis remained undefeated with an emphatic 6th round stoppage over Sergey Lipinets in a welterweight bout at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Round three, Ennis dropped Lipinets with an uppercut. In round six, Ennis rocked Lipinets with a right hook that was followed by a hard left that put Lipinets flat on his back and the fight was stopped at 2:11

Ennis, 146.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 27-0 with 25 knockouts. Lipinets, 146.8 lbs of Russia is 16-2.

Jaron Ennis

“Most definitely I think I graduated tonight. It’s on the up and up now. It’s onto bigger and better fights now.

“That’s what we work on in the gym, a lot of power shots, just having fun and doing my thing.

“I’m comfortable on both sides (righty or lefty). It’s natural for me and I don’t know when I switch. Everything is all natural. That’s about it.

“I saw that he wasn’t really as good on the inside as me and that’s why I started getting a little closer and I started touching and looking for my big shot, and I found it.

Do you think it will be hard to get a fight now?  

“No, I don’t know. Maybe. Maybe one of those guys will give me a fight and will want to fight me. We’ll see.

Where can you improve?

“Just staying more relaxed, and I did that tonight. I’m going to keep working on being calm and composed. Jabbing more and get out of the way.”

“I’ll always be hard on myself when I look back at my performance. My goal is to keep getting better, sharper, faster and stronger so I can become world champion.

“As long as I keep fighting top guys, I’m happy. I feel like I will be world champion by the end of this year or beginning of next year. Patience is the key though.

“I saw I was breaking him down, so I started walking toward him and getting closer. He wasn’t fighting as well on the inside as I was. Eventually, I caught him with a big hook, then the uppercut and that was it.

“I don’t think it was my hardest fight. I was in there having fun and doing what I wanted. I don’t take anything away from Lipinets, because he’s a great fighter, but I was just doing me, being relaxed and putting on a show.

“Hopefully the other top welterweight fighters want to take me on. I want to elevate my career and go down in history as a Hall of Famer.

“Lipinets has been in there with the best before, so I wasn’t surprised he held up for a while. I knew he’d be durable. That’s why I didn’t jump on the gas right away. I just took my time and broke him down.

“I might have to become a mandatory to get the title fight. Until then, I’m going to keep working to fight the best fighters available to me.

“I saw he was getting frustrated and I was breaking him down mentally and physically. I’m not like those others guys he fought, I can do it all. I can fight inside and out.

“I knew the knockout was coming. I just kept listening to my corner and my dad kept telling me to take my time. I knew eventually it would come and it did.

“I definitely feel like I’m getting stronger fight by fight. I was getting stronger as the fight went on round by round. I would have had that power in the 12th round if we had gotten there.”

Stanionis decisions Dulorme

Eimantas Stanionis won a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme in a welterweight bout.

Stanionis landed 232 of 613 punches; Dulorme was 193 of 765.

Stanonis, 147 lbs of Lithuania won by scores of 117-111, 116-112 and 115-113 and is now 13-0. Dulorme, 146.4 lbs is 26-51.

Eimantas Stanionis

“I said before my fight I wanted to test myself against the top welterweights in the division. In my country [Lithuania] this is the first time they are showing my fight on television live so everybody is very excited and everybody is watching. It was big, big pressure. I’m very grateful for this opportunity.

“I want to test every time I step into the ring what kind of level I can achieve, you know. With what kind of fighters that I can compete.

“I think I am top 10 [in my division]. It’s my opinion. I need experience. I think I can hang with top guys. I’ve been sparring with world champions and I did very well so I’m confident I can beat anybody in the welterweight division. Of course, I need experience. I’ve only got like 15 pro fights.”

“It’s been a dream since I was a kid watching SHOWTIME to be on this stage. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. I’ve had a long hard journey to get here, but it’s been worth it.

“Dulorme was a little bit awkward. It was hard to throw my right hand because he was catching me on the body. I couldn’t hit as hard as I wanted to because of hand injuries. I felt my hands hurt a few times when I was hitting him, but it should be okay.

“He was quicker and more explosive than I thought he’d be. On video he does not look as explosive. He was a smart fighter and he used a lot of good movement. You can’t take anything away from him. He’s a warrior.

“Everything was on point in training camp. Me and Marvin Somodio make a great team, we click very well and I think we have even more to look forward to in the future.

“Dulorme always threw back at me, even if I hurt him. I knew that if I was wild, he could have caught me with a good shot. I have more confidence in myself now because I know I can go 12 rounds with a good fighter. I know how the pressure will hit me now. Anything can happen in this sport, so I made sure I was prepared coming into this fight.”

Ancajas defends IBF Junior Bantamweight Title with decision over Rodriguez

Jerwin Ancajas defended his IBF Junior Bantamweight title for the 9th time with a hard fought 12-round unanious decision over Jonathan Rodriguez.

In round eight, Ancajas landed a hard flurry in the corner that was followed up by a left that put Rodriguez on the canvas. The two stood in the pocket and landed hard power shots throughout the contest, with Ancajas seemingly landing the harder shots with Rodriguez landing flashy and flush combinations.

Ancajas landed 232 of 758 punches; Rodriguez was 273 of 826.

Ancajas, 1148 lbs of the Philippines won by scores of 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112 to raise his record to 33-1-2. Rodriguez, 115 lbs of Mexico is 21-2.

Jerwin Ancajas

“We made a lot of sacrifices for this defense. This fight was very hard for me. I was happy to get the knock down because Rodriguez is tough, but I have strong boxing. This was my toughest world title defense. For me, I will wait for the plan of my coaches and promoter and hope to get a chance for a unification fight.”

“I’m very happy to get the win. I waited a long time for the opportunity to get back in the ring and it’s exciting to win in my first fight on this stage fighting on SHOWTIME. It’s a big win for my whole team.

“This was my toughest fight so far. It was the hardest of any of my nine defenses and it’s exciting that it was on a big card. I trained hard for this opportunity and it feels great to get the win.

“I thought he was going to be stopped because I saw him look at his corner and it didn’t look like he wanted to go on. But he got up and fought and I respect him for doing that.

“This was a good experience for me and I thank for Jonathan for bringing the fight. He’s also going to get better from the experience tonight.

“I want to fight all of the other champions in this division. Estrada, Chocolatito and all of the big names. I proved again that I’m a real champion and I deserve to be on the level with the rest of the champions.”

Jonathan Rodriguez

“I don’t think it was a just decision. I thought maybe a split decision, and I would accept it a little more. But we knew coming in that the judges were against us in this fight.

“I did have to recuperate (after the eighth-round knockdown). He hit me with a good shot, and I got knocked down.

“No, no, no. I was definitely motivated to keep fighting. I wasn’t going to quit. But I knew I had to keep fighting in this heroic fight. Now, people know I’m a great rival here and anybody who wants to fight me, I will be ready to fight them. And they saw today what I can do in the ring.”




JARON ENNIS VS. SERGEY LIPINETS FIGHT WEEK QUOTES

NEW YORK – April 8, 2021 – Undefeated rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis and former world champion Sergey Lipinets previewed their 12-round welterweight showdown during fighter media availability Thursday before they square off in the main event live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, April 10 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Also discussing their respective clashes were unbeaten Eimantas Stanionis and hard-hitting Thomas Dulorme, who meet in a 12-round WBA Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-feature, and IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas and Mexico’s Jonathan Rodriguez, who will kick off the tripleheader with a title fight at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Ennis vs. Lipinets is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JARON ENNIS

“After I do my thing on Saturday night and I do it with a big statement, it’s only up from there. On to bigger and better things. The elite fighters and the top three guys and then maybe a world title by the end of the year. This fight is just going to elevate my ranking, my superstardom and it will be the start of me being a pay-per-view star.

“I’m not worried about what Lipinets is talking about. At the end of the day, he still has to get in the ring with me on Saturday night. And we’re going to see. They don’t know what I’m going to bring. I’m an all-around fighter. You don’t know how I’m going to fight. I can fight several different ways. He just needs to know he’s gotta be ready.

“Training camp went great. It was the same old but just taking everything to the next level. I added a new workout into my training camp which was the underwater treadmill. It’s good for your legs and your lungs. It’s crazy. I do it three times a week and it makes me feel phenomenal.

“Everybody knows my style. I’m in and out like a robbery. The main goal is to be smart, go in there and win in dominating fashion. If the knockout comes, it comes. But the goal is to look good, put on a beautiful performance and get the knockout at the end of the night.

“Being from Philadelphia, a city with so many great champions, at the end of the day you just have to put on for Philly and continue the legacy that those guys started. My goal is to continue their legacy and have more world champions from Philadelphia. I feel like we’re going to have more world champions from Philadelphia around this time next year.

“These are the types of fights I’ve been waiting for. This is the guy that’s going to take me to the next level because he has a good name and he was a former world champion at 140 pounds. After this, without looking past Sergey Lipinets, I feel like I’m ready for a top five or top three guy and then a world title at the end of the year. If any of the top guys need a dance partner, they can just call.

“I’ve been trying to get these types of guys in the ring for about two-and-a-half years. I’ve been trying to get former world champions and top ten guys. It just didn’t happen. I finally got my chance and you guys are going to see a whole different animal. A whole different beast. It’s time for me to do my thing. I’m real excited.

“His style is tailor-made for me. Him coming forward is picture-perfect for me. He’s going to be running into shots all night long. It’s going to be a long night for him.”

SERGEY LIPINETS

“Everything was perfect in training camp. It was not an easy camp at all. It was probably the hardest I’ve ever had. I made it through and I feel 100% ready to go.

“I think the opposition that I’ve faced is definitely better than what Ennis has faced. I went 12 rounds with Mikey Garcia and I faced a two-time champion in Lamont Peterson. Those guys have pushed me to the edge before. Ennis has more pro fights than I do, he just hasn’t been pushed in the same way in his fights.

“We’re not basing our training on him weakening over the second half of the fight. We prepared for someone ready to go 12 hard rounds. We’re going to stay consistent, come forward and throw punches. We’re going to push ourselves and try to push Jaron as well.

“The main thing I learned from my last fight is to not depend on the judges. I know that we’re both coming to knock each other out. That’s what makes for an attractive fight. We’re hunting for opportunities to hurt him.

“I don’t worry about any outside noise or what people say about this fight. It doesn’t matter to me if I’m the underdog. I’m coming in there to do my job and put on the best performance possible.

“Ennis is young and up-and-coming fighter. All we want is a shot at the title and everything that comes with it. A win in this fight will give us all of that. I want to get my crack at the big dogs in the division.

“From what I’ve seen, Ennis can fight inside or box on the outside. He’s the whole package. Whatever he brings into the ring, I’ll be ready for it. We have multiple game plans and multiple ways that we can get this victory.

“If you follow my career, you know that I never turn down a fight. Ennis is still just another fighter. A lot of people have his skills. I love fighting boxers who are a challenge, and he presents a big challenge. That’s what excites me.

“We’re both looking to control the action, but we’ll see what happens when the bell rings. I’m focused on what I have to do to put myself in position to execute my punches. I’m looking to capitalize on any mistakes or openings he gives me.

“Custio Clayton is a very good fighter, I don’t see a lot of people lined up to face him. After a couple rounds of action though, he was trying to fight an evasive fight. It was a very competitive fight and I still feel like I won.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“We are entertainers, so I definitely want the knockout. That’s part of my job. I have to do my best to give the fans something to remember. I always put 100% of my heart into a fight and that makes me happy no matter what the result is.

“Both Ennis and I have step up fights on Saturday like everyone is saying. We both have our toughest challenges yet and I think we’re both on the same track now as the next champions in the division.

“Everything was good in training. I’ve been training nonstop. I haven’t taken a break since my last fight, so I’m always in shape. You never know when the call is going to come for your next fight.

“There is some pressure to be the first world champion from Lithuania. Everybody is going wild for this fight because they’re going to show it over there. It’s amazing and it’s very exciting for me.

“I think on Saturday I’m going to answer a lot of questions about me. I believe that I can beat any of the welterweight champions. Everyone will see my level and what I’m capable of. I know I have to step up every fight and prove it again and again.

“For me, it doesn’t matter who I fight next. I’ll never say no to a fight. It can be two against one and I’ll be up for it. I’m just that kind of person. I want to give it my best no matter what.

“I’m very thankful to have this opportunity on a stage like this. It’s a new era coming up of young hungry fighters in the welterweight division. I think my will to win and get knockouts will separate me. I also think my style is fan-friendly and that will help me stand out.

“I would accept a fight against a champion next, but I know that experience is important. I want experience against good opposition like Dulorme. I know that will get me ready and show my team that I’ll be ready for the champions when that time comes.”

THOMAS DULORME

“Fights don’t always go the way we expect them to, so I’m prepared for anything that happens in the ring. I have enough experience that I’m prepared for any way that Stanionis plans to fight.

“I learned a lot against Jamal James. He was a tall and awkward fighter. I think it was a good experience for me. Stanionis is a very different fighter, so we’re focused on what we need to do against a fighter with his skills.

“This is a good fight for the fans and for me and my career. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m still a serious contender in the welterweight division.

“Training camp was great. I worked in the gym for the last 10 weeks every day. Right now I’m feeling perfect and ready for Saturday night.

“I have to win this fight. I know that with a win I’m going to get the bigger opportunities that I’m looking for. My experience is going to be a big factor. I’m planning to test him and see how he holds up in the later rounds.

“Stanionis is a fighter who comes forward and throws punches. He stands in the middle, unlike Jamal James who was more evasive. That style is going to make it easier for me to put on the kind of fight that I want.”

JERWIN ANCAJAS

“This fight is very important to me. I want to defend my title again badly. Every fight is very important and that’s how I prepare. That’s why I still have my title and why I must keep it.

“It hasn’t been frustrating being out of the ring for 16 months because we are always training and always in the gym. We always believed that a big fight was going to come. I stayed focused and stayed ready. From March until October in the pandemic, I was able to train and stay focused. In October, I arrived to the U.S. and I’ve never stopped training. I feel very prepared to meet the challenge on Saturday night.

“Every fight I always want to perform my best and put on a good fight because I want people to know my name. Everybody always talks about Estrada, Chocolatito and Rungvisai so that’s why I’m excited to have this opportunity to showcase my skills and challenge those guys.

“I promise that on Saturday night I’m going to put on a great fight. I’m ready for what Jonathan Rodriguez will bring. It’s Mexico vs. Philippines, which is a great rivalry with great history. I’m prepared. I watched Jonathan and I know that he’s hungry and coming for the title. It will be a really good action fight.

“I want people to remember me for being a champion and giving my all every time I get in the ring. After this fight, I want to face some of the top guys in my division. I always come to the fight and give the fans my best and that’s how I want people to remember me.

“I’m very comfortable right now at 115 pounds. I’m looking to win on Saturday night and I want to fight whoever is left after the four-man tournament between Rungvisai, Chocolatito, Estrada and Cuadras. I’m always calling the name of any titleholder in my division, so I would fight Ioka too. I want a signature fight because I’m tired of people criticizing me for not fighting anybody. After this, that’s what I’m targeting and then once I get that fight I plan to move to 118 pounds sometime next year.

“If I had to choose one name, I would want to fight Chocolatito because I always watched him on TV and he’s my idol. Now, if I have the opportunity to fight Chocolatito I really want that fight.

“It doesn’t bother me that everybody is always talking about Chocolatito and Estrada and those guys. It’s a compliment. I know that one day it will come and I will get the opportunity to fight those guys. A lot of people will be watching on Saturday night so I want to make a great statement so that my name can still be in the mix with all of those guys.”

JONATHAN RODRIGUEZ

“I had a great training camp over the last two months. I’ve been looking forward to this fight for the last two years and I can’t wait to get into the ring Saturday night.

“Ancajas is a great champion, but he’s never faced someone like me. I’m going to put the pressure on him from the very beginning Saturday night and show him that he has a great Mexican fighter standing in his way.

“I’m very excited for this fight. My daughter was just born five days ago and that gives me extra motivation to put on a great show and make my name known in the United States.

“We have been preparing the whole time since my last fight and I really couldn’t feel any better heading into Saturday. I’ve been studying Ancajas for two years now, so I feel like I know everything about him.

“The Mexico vs. Philippines rivalry is a great one and I definitely remember watching the Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez fights. I’m excited to carry the Mexican flag after I win on Saturday.

“This is a stacked division with a lot of great fighters. Ancajas is a world champion, but I don’t compare him to the other champions in the division. I’m just focused on what I have to do Saturday.”

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ABOUT ENNIS VS. LIPINETS
Ennis vs. Lipinets will see rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis face former world champion Sergey Lipinets in a 12-round showdown headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, April 10 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature, a pair of hard-hitting welterweights square off as Eimantas Stanionis takes on former world title challenger Thomas Dulorme in a 12-round WBA Welterweight Title Eliminator. The telecast opener features IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas defending his title against Jonathan Rodríguez in a 12-round bout.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Ennis vs. Lipinets is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

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




AUDIO: Eimantas Stanionis Media Conference before fight with Thomas Dulorme






VIDEO: Eimantis Stanionis Media Conference before fight with Thomas Dulorme




AUDIO: Thomas Dulorme Media Conference before fight with Eimantis Stanionis






RISING WELTERWEIGHT STAR JARON “BOOTS” ENNIS BATTLES RUGGED FORMER CHAMPION SERGEY LIPINETS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 10 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN A PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT

NEW YORK – March 17, 2021 – Rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis faces his most difficult test in pursuit of a world title shot as he headlines his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® against former world champion Sergey Lipinets. These formidable contenders meet in a 12-round, crossroads fight with welterweight world title implications on Saturday, April 10 live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature, a pair of hard-hitting welterweights square off as Eimantas Stanionis takes another step up in class as he faces former world title challenger Thomas Dulorme in a 12-round WBA Welterweight Title Eliminator. The telecast opener features IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas defending his title against Jonathan Rodríguez in a 12-round bout.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Ennis vs. Lipinets is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

“Ennis vs. Lipinets is a fantastic fight in the welterweight division that pits an ascending force in Ennis against a former world champion in Lipinets,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “It’s a very competitive fight that presents a fascinating clash of styles and will have big implications on the future of the 147-pound division. Another sensational young welterweight will look for a career best win in the co-feature, as Eimantas Stanionis takes on his toughest test to date in the veteran Thomas Dulorme. Adding in 115-pound champion Jerwin Ancajas seeking an impressive ninth title defense against Mexico’s Jonathan Rodríguez, and all the ingredients are in place for an action-packed night on SHOWTIME April 10.”

Ennis (26-0, 24 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on ShoBox: The New Generation, the 23-year-old Ennis has graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast. Heading into his last bout against Chris van Heerden, Ennis was riding a streak of 16 consecutive knockouts. That streak ended when the fight was stopped after the first round due to an accidental clash of heads that opened a severe cut on the forehead of Van Heerden.

“I’m excited to be back April 10,” said Ennis. “This is the type of fight I’ve been waiting for. I can’t wait to perform and put on a beautiful show. Y’all will see something special out of me come fight night. I’m excited to be the main event. It’s time for me to shine!”

The 31-year-old Lipinets (16-1-1, 12 KOs) established himself as a force at 140 pounds when he won the IBF world title with a victory over Akihiro Kondo in 2017. He lost the title to four-division world champion Mikey Garcia in 2018 and then moved up to welterweight in 2019. He served notice that he would be a contender at welterweight when he scored an impressive stoppage victory over two-division champion Lamont Peterson in 2019. Born in Kazakhstan and representing Russia, Lipinets now lives in Woodland Hills, California and is trained by renowned trainer Joe Goossen. Lipinets is coming off a hard-fought majority draw against undefeated Custio Clayton in October 2020.

“Training is grueling and I’m working hard with Joe Goossen to be at my best on fight night,” said Lipinets. “We have a tough, young fighter in Ennis who thinks I’m a stepping stone for him. But sometimes stepping stones trip you up, and I’ll be doing my best to trip him up on April 10. I’m just doing my best to get prepared for what I expect to be a dog fight. Every fan that knows boxing knows that this is going to be a real war and worth tuning in for. I expect we’ll be fighting in a phone booth at times, but I also expect him to try to use his reach and fight me at a distance at times. But no matter what he does, I’ll be ready for him.”

Stanionis (12-0, 9 KOs) has put together a string of impressive victories as he has climbed up the ranks from prospect to contender. He enters the match against Dulorme with four consecutive knockout victories. The 26-year-old from Lithuania, who now lives and trains in California, looked impressive as he picked up three solid victories in 2019, beating Samuel Figueroa via unanimous decision and scoring early stoppages against Julio Cesar Sanchez and Evincii Dixon. The undefeated welterweight has put the division on notice with back-to-back dominating main event performances in November and December 2020, when he notched ninth-round knockouts over Justin DeLoach and Janer Gonzalez respectively.

“This is my first time fighting on SHOWTIME and it feels like a dream come true,” said Stanionis. “Dulorme is experienced and has been a good fighter for a long time. On paper, this is my toughest fight, but I’m ready. I’ll be prepared for whatever he brings. With our styles, it’s going to be a war. I’m ready to fight right now. Somebody is going down and no matter what happens, the fans are going to win.”

The 31-year-old Dulorme (25-4-1, 16 KOs) has amassed a solid resume at 140 and 147 pounds during his career, climbing into the ring with world champions Yordenis Ugas, Jessie Vargas and Terence Crawford. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but fighting out of and representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, followed by a narrow decision loss to top welterweight Yordenis Ugas. The world title challenger is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Jamal James in his last fight in August.

“I’m very excited for this fight on April 10,” said Dulorme. “I came up short in my last fight for the title, but a win against Stanionis will put me right back into the position I want. He’s young and strong, but I have a lot more experience and I will show it in the ring and it will lead me to victory.”

Representing the Philippines, Ancajas (32-1-2, 22 KOs) was only 15 years old when he was spotted by boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. The young fighter blossomed with Pacquiao’s guidance, becoming the first world champion under Pacquiao’s promotional banner when he outpointed McJoe Arroyo for the IBF World Junior Bantamweight title in September 2016. The 29-year-old southpaw hasn’t lost since and will be making the ninth defense of his title when he faces Rodríguez. In his most recent outing in December, Ancajas stopped Miguel Gonzalez in six rounds.

“I am really looking forward to returning to the ring on April 10 for my first fight on SHOWTIME,” said Ancajas. “Everybody knows the great rivalry between the Philippines and Mexico, and I look forward to adding another explosive fight to that history. Fight fans know where all the action fights are right now, and that’s the 115-pound division. I’m thankful for this opportunity and I plan to make the most of it.”

Mexico’s Rodríguez (22-1, 16 KOs) was given the nickname “Titan” because of his prodigious power. Since suffering a disputed split-decision loss to Jose Martin Estrada Garcia in March 2018, the 25-year-old has won six straight, including a first-round knockout victory over Julian Yedras last December. He will be making his U.S. debut against Ancajas.

“This is the opportunity of a lifetime for me,” said Rodríguez. “When I started boxing, it was my dream to fight for the world title and win it. On April 10, all of my dreams and hard work will come true when I hear ‘and the new IBF champion of the world.’”

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosts the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handles blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Two Hall of Famers round out the telecast team: boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The executive producer is four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy. Former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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




James Decisions Dulorme to wins Interim Welterweight Title

Jamal James won the WBA Interim Welterweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme at The Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

In round two, James started to bleed under his nose.

James was dominant as he boxed well from the outside and was efficient with solid right hands throughout. Dulorme tried and had moments but they were too few and too far between as he was not able to get on the inside enough to discourage James.

James landed 204 of 772 punches. Dulorme was 115 of 771.

James, 145.8 lbs of Minneapolis, MN won by scores of and is now 27-1. Dulorme, 146.2 lbs of Carolina, PR is 25-4-1.

“I’ve been working so long for a title shot,” said James. “So being able to get this opportunity and then actually following through and winning, it just meant the world to me. It’s been a crazy journey, with this with COVID-19, and then the George Floyd incident and starting camps and then stopping and so forth. “My grandmother ended up passing away when I was in camp for this fight. So it was a lot of mixed emotions for me. It just feels good to be able to bring this back home for my city. Now we’ll see how much farther I can go.”

“I landed a good shot on him in the second round, but I couldn’t land it again,” said Dulorme. “I couldn’t get inside on him the way that I wanted to after that round, and that made it a tough fight.”

“Dulorme brought the heat tonight,” said James. “I thought I was going to be able to move around a little bit more but he caught me with a couple of nice shots. He caught me with a good shot on the nose and it started leaking pretty bad. He’s a strong fighter, so I just had to be careful not to get hit too flush with anything. Luckily, I’m able to take a hard shot. “I knew that he kind of gets tired in the later rounds from the fights that we watched. So, I was really just trying to let him throw, stop the shots, then maybe catch him with something in between his shots. I kind of wanted to rope a dope him a little bit. But he was in shape. He was pushing in those later rounds.”

“Obviously, I would like to get a shot at Manny Pacquiao, he’s got the WBA super title,” said James. “But I know he’s such a big name, so it really doesn’t matter. I want any of the big name welterweights, we can really put on a good show.”

Morrell Decisions Allen to Win Interim Title

In an entertaining scrap, young prospect David Morrell Jr. won the WBA Interim Super Middleweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Lennox Allen.

The bout saw both guys land solid shots, with the difference being Morrell’s superior punch output and landing more and the better punches.

In round five, Allen was cut over his right eye from an accidental clash of heads. Morell was very consistent with Allen trying until the end.

Allen landed 207 of 631 punches. Allen was 90 of 522.

Morrell, 164.6 lbs of Minneapolis, MN won by scores of 120-108, 119-109 and 118-110 and is now 3-0. Allen, 166.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 22-1-1.

Omar Juarez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Willie Shaw in a super lightweight bout.

Juarez outlanded Shaw 61-38.

Juarez, 140.6 lbs of Brownsville, TX won by scores of 60-54, 59-55 and 58-56 and is now 8-0. Shaw, 140.8 lbs of Oakland, CA is 12-2.

Luke Santamaria scored an upsetting by taking a 10-round unanimous decision over Mykal Fox in a welterweight bout.

In round one, Santamaria put Fox on the canvas with a left hook in the corner. The two took turns trading on the inside, with both having success throughout. They were separated by one punch as Santamaria outlanded Fox 171-170.

Santamaria, 145.8 lbs of Garden Grove, CA won by scores of 99-90, 97-92 and 96-93 to go to 11-1-1. Fox, 145.8 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD is 22-2.

Vito Mielnicki Jr. stopped Chris Rollins in round two of a scheduled six-round welterweight fight.

Mielnicki outclassed Rollins, and in round two, Mielnick landed a right hand that buckled Rollins. Mielnicki followed up with a hard combination and the fight was stopped before any further damage could be inflicted at 2:19.

Mielnicki, 147.8 lbs of Roseland, NJ is 6-0 with four knockouts. Rollins, 147.4 lbs of Charlottesville, VA is 3-2.

Michael Coffie remained undefeated with a 5th round stoppage over Luis Pena in a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

In round three, Coffie scored a knockdown when he landed a left hook to the top of the head.

In round five, Coffie dropped Pena with two booming left hooks to the head. The fight ended with Coffie landing another flush left and the fight was stopped at 1:35.

Coffie, 279 lbs of Bronx, NY is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Pena, 232 lbs of Ventura, CA is 6-1.




PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON FOX RETURNS!

LOS ANGELES (July 30, 2020) – Top welterweight Jamal “Shango’’ James will square off against former title challenger Thomas Dulorme in a 12-round battle for the Interim WBA Welterweight Title, headlining the return of FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX, FS1 and FOX Deportes, Saturday, August 8 from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban sensation David Morrell Jr. stepping up in just his third professional fight to face unbeaten Lennox Allen in a 12-round WBA Super Middleweight Interim Title match in the co-main event. Exciting, undefeated super lightweight prospect Omar Juárez will battle Willie Shaw in a special attraction on the broadcast. All programming can be live streamed in English and Spanish on the new FOX Sports app. FOX Deportes offers delayed coverage of all FOX and FS1 programming beginning at 10:00 PM ET.

Following the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast will be a full slate of bouts on FS1 as welterweight Mykal Fox (22-1, 5 KOs) takes on Lucas Santamaría (10-1-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-round fight, sensational 18-year-old prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. (5-0, 3 KOs) battles Chris Rollins (3-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round super welterweight bout, and in an eight-round clash of unbeaten heavyweight prospects, Luis Peña (6-0, 6 KOs) faces Michael Coffie (9-0, 6 KOs) to kick off the action. The FS1 broadcast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT after the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast.

Plus! Key FOX PBC Fight Night and FS1, FOX Deportes and PPV event dates for the remainder of the year will be unveiled live during the primetime broadcast, which will feature interviews with some of the PBC stars who will appear on those shows.

“FOX Sports is thrilled to welcome PBC back into the ring August 8 with a fantastic matchup,” said Bill Wanger, Executive Vice President, Head of Programming and Scheduling, FOX Sports. “This outing is the first in a long line of great fight nights coming for the remainder of the year on FOX, FS1, FOX Deportes and PPV.”

The James vs. Dulorme event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Microsoft Theater, an AEG venue, which will be the home of some of the earlier upcoming FOX PBC Fight Night events.

“We’re thrilled to have PBC back on FOX, FS1 and FOX Deportes headlined by this great main event between Jamal James and Thomas Dulorme,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “James has proven that he is amongst the top welterweights in the world and he will again have a chance to show his credentials against a tough opponent in Dulorme. Combined with a stacked undercard of fights featuring rising stars and more, this lineup should deliver great action for fans all night long on August 8.”

“Boxing has a rich history in downtown Los Angeles, and we are incredibly excited to host FOX PBC Fight Night on Saturday, August 8,” Lee Zeidman, President, STAPLES Center, Microsoft Theater and L.A. LIVE. “This will mark our first televised fanless event since the COVID-19 Pandemic forced us to close our venues in March and we look forward to providing FOX, the fighters, their camps and the California State Athletic Commission with a safe environment to host their Fight Night at Microsoft Theater.”

James (26-1, 12 KOs) has built a passionate fan base in his hometown of Minneapolis and was scheduled to thrill his local fans again on April 11 before the COVID-19 pandemic forced it to be rescheduled. His last fight was an exciting decision victory over former champion Antonio DeMarco in an FS1 main event last July. The 32-year-old James has reeled off six consecutive victories since suffering his only defeat in a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2016. James has compiled three knockouts during his current win streak, defeating the likes of Diego Chaves, Abel Ramos and Jo Jo Dan.

“I’m excited and ready to be getting back in the ring after everything happening these last months,” said James. “Thomas Dulorme is a strong opponent and I feel that we will be giving boxing fans a great night of action. Training has gone extremely well and I am more than prepared to secure this victory.”

The 30-year-old Dulorme (25-3-1, 16 KOs) most recently defeated then unbeaten Terrel Williams in September, winning a unanimous decision after his previous contest had seen him fight to a majority draw against two-division champion Jessie Vargas in 2018. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but fighting out of and representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Terence Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, leading to a narrow decision loss to top welterweight Yordenis Ugas in 2017 on FOX PBC Fight Night.

“I have been in training camp now for over four months for this fight and I can’t wait to get in the ring and put on a spectacular performance,” said Dulorme. “The delay only makes me more motivated. James is a good fighter but I am on a different level and it will show on August 8. I will put on the best performance of my career and win the WBA title.”

Morrell (2-0, 2 KOs) arrived in the U.S. last year and immediately began to show the same prodigious talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s iconic amateur scene. Now fighting out of Minneapolis, Morrell made his pro debut there last August, stopping Yendris Rodríguez in the first round. The 22-year-old followed that up in November, knocking out Quinton Rankin, who entered the fight with a 15-6-2 record and had most recently gone the distance with former champion Chad Dawson five months before facing Morrell. This will be a major step up for Morrell in just the third fight of his pro career.

“I’m focused and ready to get in the ring to win this title on August 8,” said Morrell. “Training is going really well and I’ve been working hard with my team day after day. I know that I have to prepare for everything and that I can’t underestimate Allen. I want that belt, but I know he does too. I respect him as a person, but when I step into the ring I don’t have friends, family or anything. It’s just two fighters going after the same prize and I’m prepared to do what I have to do.”

Born in Guyana, Allen (22-0-1, 14 KOs) turned pro in 2004 and has fought out of New York since 2010. He’s won 10 consecutive fights since a 2010 draw against Darnell Boone, including a 12-round decision victory over Kwesi Jones, a knockout of then once-beaten Kojo Issah and most recently a 10-round decision victory over Derrick Webster in February 2019.

“It’s been a while that we’ve been waiting for this fight but training camp has been going great and we’re on schedule for fight night,” said Allen. “I’m ready to go in there, showcase my skills and let everyone see that I’m a well-rounded fighter. I think this fight is going to go into the later rounds and then my experience is going to kick in and I’ll leave the ring with my hand raised.”

Juárez (7-0, 4 KOs) carries the nickname “Relámpago’’, or “Lightning’’ in English, and it could apply to how quickly he strikes in the ring and to how rapidly he plans to overtake the super lightweight division. The 21-year-old from Brownsville, Texas had an outstanding amateur career with over 120 fights, establishing himself as a “can’t miss’’ pro. He had a busy 2019, chalking up five straight wins, and is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Angel Martinez Hernandez in February.

“The motivation to take my career to the next level has only intensified since the shutdown and I can’t wait to get back in the ring,” said Juarez. “Fighting on FOX for the first time is a dream come true. A win against a fighter like Willie Shaw, who has been in the ring with some quality fighters, is going to elevate my status in the super lightweight division. I’ve had a great training camp and I’m ready to let my hands fly with bad intentions.”

Shaw (12-1, 8 KOs) most recently scored a knockout victory over Antonio Flores in February. The 28-year-old has always been an exceptional athlete, and even received a basketball scholarship to Stanford University. He took up boxing late, turning pro in 2017 with nine straight wins. Shaw has put together three consecutive wins since suffering his only loss, a majority decision to Jose Marrufo in March 2019.

“Training camp for this fight has been perfect and I’m anxious and ready to take advantage of this chance and opportunity,” said Shaw. “Once I beat Juarez, I can show that I have class. People are going to have to respect me. He’s going to bring a lot of attention to me. I think it’s going to be a good chess match. He’s got the amateur experience and I have the pro experience. I’ve been waiting for my moment. He’s just someone in the way.”

Additional non-televised action will feature undefeated prospect Jose Valenzuela (5-0, 2 KOs) in a lightweight showdown against Tedoro Alonso (3-2).

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

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.




Top Welterweight & Minneapolis Native Jamal James Takes On Former Title Challenger Thomas Dulorme for Interim WBA Welterweight Title Headlining FOX PBC Fight Night & on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 11 from The Armory in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (March 5, 2020) – Top welterweight and Minneapolis native Jamal “Shango” James will face former title challenger Thomas Dulorme for the Interim WBA Welterweight Title in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 11 as James returns to The Armory in Minneapolis for his fifth-straight fight.

FOX PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Minneapolis-based Cuban sensation David Morrell Jr. stepping up in his third pro fight to face unbeaten Lennox Allen in an Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title match as the co-main event. Super welterweight sensation Joey “Small Town Solider” Spencer will open the televised broadcast in a special attraction.

“We can’t wait to be back at The Armory in Minneapolis to see the city’s homegrown star Jamal James in another exciting fight in front of his hometown fans,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “He’ll look to further prove his status as an elite welterweight against the very dangerous Thomas Dulorme and capture an interim title in the main event. Cuban phenom David Morrell Jr., now based in Minneapolis, will make this an even more high-stakes night for the city’s boxing scene, as he fights for an interim title in just his third pro fight against tough unbeaten Lennox Allen. Combined with sensational prospect Joey Spencer continuing his rise in the televised opener, April 11 is shaping up to be a jam packed night of action.”

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

James (26-1, 12 KOs) has become a local favorite, packing The Armory and most recently thrilled his hometown crowd in July with an exciting decision victory over former champion Antonio DeMarco in an FS1 main event. The 31-year-old has rolled off six consecutive victories since suffering his only defeat in a unanimous decision loss to Yordenis Ugás in 2016. James has compiled three knockouts in his current win streak while defeating the likes of Diego Gabriel Chaves, Abel Ramos and Jo Jo Dan.

“I’m extremely excited and honored to have my fifth fight back at home at The Armory,” said James. “We’ve created an empire with Minnesota boxing and being able to have these big fights at home is a huge blessing. Being the main event fighting top competitors at home and on FOX, it’s going to show Minnesota boxing to the nation. I’m extremely motivated and focused for this fight. I’m always training to my fullest, but we’re going extra hard for this fight.”

The 30-year-old Dulorme (25-3-1, 16 KOs) most recently defeated then unbeaten Terrel Williams in September, winning a unanimous decision after his previous contest had seen him fight to majority draw against two-division champion Jessie Vargas in 2018. Born in Marigot, Guadeloupe but fighting out of and representing Carolina, Puerto Rico, Dulorme rebounded from a loss to Terence Crawford for a 140-pound title by scoring back-to-back knockouts, leading up to a narrow decision loss to top welterweight Yordenis Ugás in 2017 on FOX.

“I am very excited to get a chance to fight for a title again,” said Dulorme. “I had a chance before, but this time I won’t let the opportunity slip away. James is a good fighter and I’m sure he will be motivated fighting in his hometown. I respect him, but I feel like I am in the prime of my career and it will show when I step in the ring.”

Morrell (2-0, 2 KOs) arrived in the U.S. last year and immediately began to show the same prodigious talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s iconic amateur scene. Now fighting out of Minneapolis, Morrell made his pro debut at The Armory in August, with a TKO victory in the first round. The 22-year-old followed that up in November on FS1, knocking out an opponent in Quinton Rankin who entered the fight with a 15-6-2 record and had most recently gone the distance with former champion Chad Dawson five months before facing Morrell.

“I’m very thankful to my team and excited for this great opportunity,” said Morrell. “I feel strong in training camp and I’m not underestimating Allen at all. I’m focused on getting one step closer to winning a world title for my family and fans in Cuba. I can’t wait to perform in front of my new family and friends in Minnesota and give them a great show on April 11.”

Born in Guyana, Allen (22-0-1, 14 KOs) turned pro in 2004 and has fought out of New York since 2010. He’s won 10 consecutive fights since a 2010 draw against Darnell Boone, including a 12-round decision victory over Kwesi Jones, a knockout of then once-beaten Kojo Issah and most recently a 10-round decision victory over Derrick Webster in February 2019. April 11 will make Allen’s second-straight fight in Minnesota, as his triumph over Webster took place in Hinckley.

“Training camp is going great right now and I’m really excited for this fight on April 11,” said Allen. “I know that Morrell sees me as a step in his career, but that’s exactly how I see him as well. I’ve worked hard to get one step away from the top and I’m planning on taking that step in this fight. We both have good technical skills, but I think I’m going to have to be the one to press the fight and take it to him. I’m thankful to have this opportunity to fight on FOX and after my performance I’m looking forward to fighting on this stage a lot more.”

The 19-year-old Spencer (10-0, 7 KOs) has made fast strides since turning pro in February 2018, including four victories on his 2019 campaign. Representing his hometown of Linden, Michigan, Spencer kicked off 2020 by scoring a unanimous decision against Erik Spring on January 18 on FS1. He also stopped Travis Gambardella on FS1 in September after defeating Akeem Black on FOX in June.

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

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions @WarriorsBoxingProm, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes




Angulo wins split decision over Quillin in a war

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

The rocked each other throughout the bou

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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




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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.




Vargas and Dulorme fight to a draw

Welterweights Jessie Vargas and Thomas Dulorme fought to a 12-round draw in the main event of Matchroom Boxing’s maiden voyage on stream service DAZN. the card took place at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

In round three, Vargas was cut over the right from an accidental headbutt.

In round ten, Vargas dropped Dulorme with a short left hook. Dulorme pulled even in the last ten seconds of the fight as he decked Vargas with a counter right hand.

Vargas took a card 115-111, while two cards were even at 113-113.

Vargas, 147 lbs of Las Vegas is 28-2-2. Dulorme, 146 1/2 lbs of Carolina, PR is 24-3-1.

Artur Beterbiev retained the IBF Light Heavyweight title and kept his perfect knockout streak intact by stopping Callum Johnin in the 4th round.

In round one, Beterbiev dropped Johnson with a right hand after Johnson got stuck in the ropes. In round two, it was Johnson he sent Beterbiev hard to the canvas with a short left hook. In round three, Johnson was cut over the right eye.

In round four, it was a short right to the nose that dropped Johnson in the corner. he tried to get up and got to his feet just as the referee rached the count of ten and the fight was over at 2:36.

Beterbiev, 174 1/2 lbs of Montreal via Russia is 13-0 with 13 knockouts. Johnson, 174 3/4 lbs of England is 17-1.

Jarrell Miller stopped former cruiserweight world champion Tomasz Adamek in round two of their scheduled ten-round heavyweight bout.

Miller landed a huge uppercut that sent Adamek to his knee.  He was wobbly upon getting up, and the fight was halted at 2:21.

Miller, 317 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 22-0-1 with 19 knockouts.  Adamek of Poland is 53-6.

Danny Roman stopped Gavin McDonnell in round ten to retain the WBA Super Bantamweight title.

Roman dominated action, and in round ten, he bludgeoned McDonnell as he dropped hard with a vicious of punches and the fight was stopped.

Roman is now 26-2-1 with 10 knockouts.  McDonnell is 20-2-2.

“I wanted to go to the body,” said Roman after the fight. “We needed to break him down.”

“The right hand landed early in the fight so we knew it was going to be there,” said Roman, who is represented by long time promoter Thompson Boxing and new partner Matchroom Boxing. “I just had to wait for the right time. It was there in the tenth. I landed a strong right to his chin that buckled him. I followed up with two left upper cuts and that was it for him.”

“I’ll fight any of the other champions in this division,” Roman said. “Let’s make a unification fight. I want all the belts.”

Jessica McCaksill won the WBC Super Lightweight title with a ten-round unanimous decision over Erica Anabella Farias.

McCaskill of Chicago won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 and is now 6-2. Farias is now 26-3.

Anthony Sims, Jr. stopped Marlon Aguilar in round six of a scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout.

Sims, 173 1/2 lbs of Plainfield, IN is 16-0 with 15 knockouts. Aguilar, 174 lbs of Mexico is 19-6.

In round one, Aguilar began to bleed from the nose.

Reshat Mati stopped Adan Ahumada in round three of a scheduled four-round welterweight bout.

Mati dropped Ahumada with a body shot that was followed up by a short right, and the bout was halted at 1:52.

Mati, 146 lbs of Brooklyn is 1-0 with one knockout. Ahumada, 150 lbs of Matamores, MEX is 3-6-2.

Nikita Ababiy needed just 28 seconds to dispose of Jake Henriksen in a scheduled four-round middleweight bout.

Ababiy landed a crushing body shot that put Henriksen down for the count.

Ababiy, 159 lbs of Brooklyn is 1-0 wit one knockout. Henriksen, 160 1/2 lbs of Fargo, ND is 2-3.

Matt Cameron stunned heralded prospect Nkosi Solomon by winning a four-round unanimous decision in a heavyweight bout.

In round three, Cameron dropped Solomon with a hard right hand. In round four, Solomon was docked a point for holding. Seconds later, it was a left hook that dropped Solomon for a 2nd time.

Cameron, 221 lbs of Chicago won by scores of 39-33 on all cards and is now 3-1-1. Solomon, 217 1/2 lbs of Brooklyn is 0-1.




DAZN ANNOUNCES EIGHT-YEAR DEAL WITH MATCHROOM BOXING USA TO EXCLUSIVELY BROADCAST FIGHTS IN CANADA

TORONTO, Sept. 25, 2018 – DAZN, the live and on-demand sports streaming platform, announced today that it has signed an eight-year distribution deal with Matchroom Boxing USA, a world-leading boxing promoter, to exclusively deliver a series of fight nights along with original programming on DAZN Canada.

DAZN Canada plans to broadcast 16 live fight nights through August 2019, beginning with the Jessie Vargas vs. Thomas Dulorme card on Oct. 6, 2018 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago and Oct. 20, 2018, when Billy Joe Saunders defends his middleweight title against Demetrius Andrade at TD Garden in Boston. DAZN will also produce original programming that viewers can watch ahead of and following fights.

DAZN’s investment comes on the heels of a historic $1 billion dollar joint venture between Matchroom Boxing and DAZN Group that was announced earlier this year. This joint venture represents DAZN’s vision to reignite the fight sports community and to bring passionate fans closer to their sport and fighters.

“For too long, the fight sports market in Canada has been underserved,” said Joseph Markowski, DAZN SVP, North America. “Our partnership with Matchroom allows us to drive our fans-first approach and give our users an opportunity to pay one monthly flat fee with no long-term contract or commitment, an unprecedented value proposition for fight fans.”

Matchroom Boxing Managing Director Eddie Hearn said, “DAZN has already proven to be an integral partner in Matchroom’s growth around the world. For fight fans specifically, we want to make DAZN a must-have for fight fans by featuring the world’s biggest athletes at premium venues. By expanding our relationship into Canada, we’re confident we can make that vision become reality.”

For more information, fans can follow DAZN Canada’s social channels: @DAZN on Facebook, @DAZN_CA for Twitter, and DAZN_CA for Instagram.

ABOUT DAZN CA

DAZN is the world’s first dedicated live sports streaming service and is leading the change to give sports fans around the world access to sport anytime, anywhere. DAZN remains the only place for Canadians to watch every single live NFL game, and is the exclusive home of RedZone. DAZN has also become the new home of UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Serie A and offers MLS Live, MLB Network, Six Nations Rugby, boxing, cricket and much more live and on-demand.




WBC SILVER TITLE ON THE LINE FOR VARGAS AND DULORME


Jessie Vargas and Thomas Dulorme will clash for the WBC Silver Welterweight title at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago on October 6, live on DAZN.

Former two-weight World ruler Vargas (28-2 10KOs) is gunning for the chance to become a two-time champion at 147lbs and victory over Dulorme (24-3 16KOs) would move him into pole position to face newly crowned WBC champion Shawn Porter as the mandatory challenger, after Porter defeated Danny Garcia in Brooklyn earlier in the month.

Las Vegas star Vargas headlines Matchroom Boxing USA’s first show in the States on DAZN and will have his hands full with the Puerto Rican – but with the stakes now raised even more, Vargas believes he can deliver a ‘tremendous’ victory and kickstart an exciting period in the peak of his career.

“My focus has to be solely on Thomas Dulorme,” said WBC #3 ranked Vargas. “This man is no walk in the park, he fights with his heart and always gives it his all, but I have prepared properly and record a tremendous victory. It’s going to be a great show and I’m proud to be headlining it.

“This is the first step in the new phase of my career. As a fighter, it’s always best to have fights lined up and have a clear plan, have a promoter that shows you ‘you are going to fight three times in 12 months’ and when you get that certainty you know you have a couple of weeks off after a fight and then you are into another training camp to give the fans another great. I am stull young and I have plenty of years left in me at the very top level – I’m truly excited.

“Shawn Porter is my boy and he’s a great fighter, he’s got a lot of experience, great stamina and power. I will fight the top guys, all the champions, there are some huge fights to make out there at Welterweight. We’re all going to go at it and we’re going to see who ends up on top.”

“Jessie is the leading contender in the WBC rankings and I am very confident that victory on October 6 will lead him to the mandatory position for Shawn Porter,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “That’s a great fight that we would be very interested in but first he must win the Mexico vs Puerto Rico battle in Chicago.”

Vargas and Dulorme clash on a huge night of action in Chicago, with two World title clashes and a huge fight for an American Heavyweight star.

Russian Artur Beterbiev defends his IBF World Light-Heavyweight title against fellow unbeaten puncher Callum Johnson, the Brit in his first World title fight.

Daniel Roman defends his WBA Super-Bantamweight crown against another Brit, second time World title challenger Gavin McDonnell, while Brooklyn’s brash Heavyweight star Jarrell Miller meets Polish legend Tomasz Adamek and three debutants grace the bill as Team USA talents Reshat Mati, Nikita Ababiy and Nkosi Solomon lace them up for the first time.

Along with these World stars and promising youngsters, Chicago fight fans will be able to back two of their own on the night, with former World Lightweight title challenger Jessica McCaskill in action on the bill along with unbeaten Bantamweight prospect Shawn Simpson.

Tickets for October 6 are on sale now priced $40, $60, $100 and $200 and are available from:

Online at Ticketmaster: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/07005506EDA47F37

Phone: (312)791-6900




More fight than farce as Mayweather stops McGregor

LAS VEGAS – In the end, only the spectacle was memorable. The fight was forgettable. Yet in the end, it was indeed a fight instead of the mere farce predicted by so many.

 

Floyd Mayweather, Jr. won it and with the stoppage he promised Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in a pay-per-view event expected to set records.

 

But there was also a victory wrapped in the defeat for Conor McGregor, who was still upright at the time of the 10round TKO and proud as ever after the MMA star’s first professional boxing match against this generation’s best at the more traditional sweet science.

 

McGregor surprised the boxing pursuits.

 

Seemed to surprise, Mayweather, too.

 

He threw jabs nobody had ever seen or even suspected he had. He had Mayweather in retreat fighting off his back foot. In the opening rounds, Mayweather looked exactly like the 40-year-old man who had not answered an opening bell in a couple of years. After six rounds, it looked like an even fight.

 

But McGregor’s unfamiliarity with boxing became increasingly evident. By the fourth round, there was awkward pawing with his jab. His hands began to drop. All the while, Mayweather’s muscle memory began to exert itself and take control of the junior-middleweight bout.

 

His found his timing. He rediscovered his sense of range. Then, his right hand began to land, land and land. Suddenly, there was swelling around McGregor’s eyes. In those Irish eyes, there were mounting signs of fatigue.

 

The end was near, a historical one for what Mayweather vowed was his last fight. In Nevada Athletic Commission-sanctioned bout, Mayweather went 50-0, supassing Rocky Marciano’s milestone.

 

“Boxing’s reputation was on the line,’’ Mayweather said.

 

Mayweather’s legacy was, too. He protected that and managed to add a reported $200,000 to his bank account.

 

“”Our game plan was to take our time, go to him, let him shoot his shots early and then take him out down the stretch,’’ said Mayweather, who ended with it fusillade of right hands that left McGregor holding on and finished at 1:05 of the 10th. “We know in MMA he fights for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, he started to slow down. I guaranteed to everybody that this wouldn’t go the distance.’’

 

McGregor wished that it had. Referee Robert Byrd, he said, should have let it go on, all the way through the 12th and final round and on to the scorecards.

 

“Where was the final two rounds?’’ said McGregor, who collected a $100 million guarantee. “Let me walk back to my corner and compose myself.”

 

He’ll have plenty of time to do that. His $100-million guarantee is worth a lot of composure.

Gervonta Davis gets only boos in victory

Gervonta Davis lost his title on the scale. He lost respect in the ring.

Davis won the fight, but not much else in an eighth-round TKO of Francisco Fonseca Saturday in the final fight before the Conor McGregor-Floyd Mayweather Jr pay-per-view spectacle Saturday night at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.
Davis, who was two pounds heavier than the 130-pound mandatory Friday  for a defense of the International Boxing Federation’s title, dropped Fonseca with a punch to the back of the head at 39 seconds of the eighth.
“An illegal punch,” said Fonseca (19-1-1, 13 KOs), a Costa Rica who went to the canvas and stayed there on has hands and knees for several long moments.
Davis 19-0, 18 KOs), a Mayweather promoted fighter from Baltimore, denied there was anything illegal about the blows. He mocked Fonseca in the end by mimicking him, but resting his hands and knees onto the canvas in the same beaten posture. When he stood up, the crowd erupted in boos, which was the only thing he earned.

 

Jack scores TKO for light-heavyweight title

Things changed quickly for Badou Jack. He made sure of it.

Rocked early, Jack (21-1-3, 14 KOs) recovered quickly and definitively, winning the World Boxing Association’s light-heavyweight title with a fifth-round TKO Saturday of Nathan Cleverly (30-4, 16 KOs).
Jack, a Swedish fighter training in Las Vegas, won his piece of the world title by establishing a quick, precise jab after Cleverly, of Wales, aggressively went after him in the opening two rounds of a pay-per-view bout on the Conor McGregor-Floyd Mayeather Jr. card at Las Vegas T-Mobile Arena.
By the fourth, Jack was in control. By the fifth, Cleverly was slumping on the ropes and finished at 2:17 of the round.

Tabiti wins unanimous decision over Cunningham

Andrew Tabiti’s fast hands initiated a head-to-body attack that the Las Vegas cruiserweight sustained throughout 10 rounds for a unanimous decision over Steve Cunningham of Philadelphia for a minor title Saturday night at Las Vegas T-Mobile Arena.

Tabiti (16-0, 13 KOs) was quicker on his feet and quicker to punch through the a 97-93, 100-90, 97-93 scorecard victory over Cunningham (29-9-1, 13 KOs)in the first pay-per-view bout on the Conor McGregor-Floyd Mayweather Jr. card.

Yordenis Ugas, a 2008 Olympic bronze medalist from Cuba, scored two knockdowns and got up from one for unanimous decision over Puerto Rican Thomas Dulorme (24-3, 16 KOs) in a terrific, 10-round welterweight fight Saturday in the final bout before the pay-per-view portion of the Mayweather-McGregor card at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

Ugas looked as if he would overwhelm Dulorme early. He dropped him twice in the second round. Dulorme returned the favor in the seventh, yet wasn’t able to capitalize with the second knockdown he would have needed for the win.
In the card’s third bout, Las Vegas welterweight Juan Heraldez (13-0, 8 KOs) relied superior strength and a disciplined defense, winning a unanimous decision over Mexican Jose Borrego (12-1, 11 KOs), who had had enough power to score a knockdown in the 10th, yet failed to do much through the other nine rounds..

Everybody might be talking about Floyd Mayweather Jr.-Conor McGregor, but nobody was there when the hyped event began.

The show opened to an empty room Saturday at T-Mobile Arena.

There were only a couple of fighters and lots of echoes about three hours before Showtime’s pay-per-view card was scheduled to begin.

London super-middleweight Savannah Marshall (1-0) and Sydney LeBlanc of Lafayette, LA, created the first echoes. Most of them came from Marshall’s punches. She landed one after another, scoring a unanimous decision over LeBlanc (4-4-1).

In the card’s second fight, Fresno super-middleweight Antonio Hernandez (10-1, 2 KOs) was stronger and busier, scoring often enough for unanimous decision over Kevin Newman (7-1-1, 3 KOs) of Las Vegas.




FOLLOW MAYWEATHER – MCGREGOR LIVE!!

Follow all the action as undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather takes on UFC sensation Conor McGregor in a highly anticipated boxing match.  The show begins at 7 PM ET with a 5 fight undercard that will feature Gervonta Davis taking on Francisco Fonseca in a lightweight bout (Fonseca can win the IBF Jr. Lightweight title which Davis vacated at the scales.  Nathan Cleverly defends the WBA Light Heavyweight title against former super middleweight champion Badou Jack.  Undefeated Andrew Tabiti takes on former two-time world champion Steve Cunningham in a cruiserweight battle.

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12-ROUNDS–JR. MIDDLEWEIGHTS–FLOYD MAYWEATHER (49-0, 26 KOS) VS CONOR MCGREGOR (PD) 
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 MAYWEATHER  9 10   9 10   10  10  10  9 10         87
 MCGREGOR 10   9  10  9 10   9  10  9        85

Round 1: McGregor lands a left…Uppercut

Round 2: Right from Mayweather..Right from Mayweather…Right from McGregor..Left to body..Right from Mayweather..

Round 3 Jab from McGregor..Jab..Right to body from Mayweather..

Round 4 McGregor lands a a left…2 rights from Mayweather..combination..Jab from McGregor..Right from Mayweather..Left from McGregor..Lead right from Mayweather..Left uppercut from McGregor..

Round 5 Right to body from McGregor..Left from Mayweather..right

Round 6 Jab from McGregor..Right to body fro Mayweather…lead right..right from Mayweather…Left to body from McGregor…good body work..left..Good counter right from Mayweather..

Round 7  Right from Mayweather..uppercut from McGregor..Combination and right from Mayweather,,2 rights..

Round 8 Good left from McGregor..2 rights from Mayweather..Combination from McGregor..Jab from Mayweather..

Round 9 Body shot from McGregor…hard combination…Right from Mayweather…hard right,,McGregor hurt..Hard right rocks McGregor.

Round 10 2 HUGE RIGHTS….MCgREGOR HURT…1 MORE SHOT…ROBERT BYRD STOPS THE FIGHT

 12-ROUNDS–IBF JR. LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE–GERVONTA DAVIS (18-0, 17 KOS) VS FRNACISCO FONSECA (19-0-1, 13 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 DAVIS  10  9 10   9  10  10 10             68
 FONSECA  9  10  10  9  9  9            65

Round 1: Left to body from Davis..Left uppercut..Right to body from Fonseca..Counter left Davis..Right to body from Fonseca

Round 2 Nice combination from F9nseca…Body shot from Davis…Left hook from Fonseca..Hard uppercut from Davis..

Round 3: Huge combination featuring uppercuts from Davis..Left from Davis…Good counter from Fonseca…

Round 4 Huge uppercut from Davis…Right and left from Fonseca..Good left..Body shot

Round 5  Fonseca lands a left to the body…Hard body shots from Davis..right to body…Counter from Fonseca…

Round 6 Lead left from Davis…Nice left

Round 7  Good right from Fonseca..Good right and left uppercut from Davis…Right to body from Fonseca..Left from Davis

Round 8 LEFT TO HEAD…FONSECA DOWN AND COUNT REACHES 10…FONSECA CLAIMING BEHIND THE HEAD

 12-ROUNDS–WBA LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP–NATHAN CLEVERLY (30-3, 16 KOS) VS BADOU JACK (20-1-3, 12 KOS) 
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 Cleverly  9  9  9  9                 36
 Jack  10 10  10   10                  40

Round 1: Right from Jack..Body..2 rights..Right from Cleverly..Good right from Jack..Jab from Cleverly..left from body..uppercut from Cleverly…Nice right

Round 2 Body shot from Jack..2 rights from Cleverly..1-2 from Jack..Nice body shot..overhand right

Round 3 Body shots from Jack..Right hand..Good uppercut..Short body shot..Jab from Cleverly

Round 4 Hard shots from Jack..Nice left hook and right..Big left hook..Big 3 punch combo.Clecer;y bleeding from the nose

Round 5 Hard left from Jack..Jack landing big shots on ropes…Left from Cleverly..Jack pounding Cleverly on the ropes..BIG UPPERCUT FIGHT STOPPED–TKO FOR BADOU JACK

 10-ROUNDS–CRUISERWEIGHTS-ANDREW TABITI (15-0, 13 KOS) VS STEVE CUNNINGHAM (29-8-1, 13 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 TABITI 10   10 10   9 10   10 10   10  9     97
 CUNNINGHAM  9  9  9 10   10  9  9  9  10      93

Round 1 3 jabs from Tabiti..counter jab from Cunningham..Right from Tabiti..Jab..Jab from Cunningham..Lead right from Tabiti..Counter from Cunningham..

Round 2 Double jab..right hand from Tabiti..Nice counter right from Cunningham…Combination from Tabiti…Left hook for Cunningham..

Round 3 Combination from Tabiti..Right to body..Counter from Tabiti..Jab from Cunningham..

Round 4 Tabiti lands a right to the body..Jab from Cunningham..Jab..Right

Round 5  Right from Tabiti..2 jabs from Tabiti..Left from Cunningham..uppercut..Double jab

Round 6 Counter right from Tabiti..Right from Cunningham..short right from Tabiti

Round 7  Right to body from Tabiti..Jab..Nice exchange

Round 8  Right from Tabiti…right uppercut

Round 9 Combination from Tabiti..Counter right from Cunningham..

Round 10 Double jab from Cunningham…

Tabiti landed 112-315       Cunningham 89-329

97-93 twice and 100-90 for Tabiti

10 ROUNDS-WELTERWEIGHTS–THOMAS DULORME (24-2, 16 KOS) VS YORDENIS UGAS (19-3, 9 KOS) 
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 DULORME  7  9  10  9 10   10 10   8      91
 UGAS  10 10   10  9  10  10  8  9  9  10     95

Round 1 Right from Ugas…

Round 2:  Right from Dulorme….Uppercut..GOOD UPPERCUT AND DOWN GOES DULORME..Good body shot…HARD RIGHT AND DOWN GOES DULORME

Round 3:  Big flurry from Ugas.. Right from Ugas…Hard hook to the jaw..

Round 4:  Dulorme lands a straight right…

Round 5 Right from Ugas..Hard right..Trading uppercuts…Hook from Ugas..uppercut and right…

Round 6 Right from Ugas…Body shot from Dulorme…

Round 7:  DULORME DEDUCTED A POINT FOR A LOW BLOW…Uppercut from Ugas..BIG LEFT AND DOWN GOES UGAS

Round 8:  Hard uppercut from Dulorme…Left hook from Ugas..Left from Ugas..2 hooks from Dulorme..

Round 9:  Hard hooks from Dulorme

Round 10:  DULORME DOCKED A POINT FOR A LOW…Hook from Ugas..

94-91 and 93-92 TWICE FOR YORDENIS UGAS

 10-ROUNDS–MIDDLEWEIGHTS–JUAN HERALDEZ (12-0, 8 KOS) VS JOSE BORREGO (12-0, 11 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
 HERALDEZ  10  9 10  9  10 10  10  10  10       96
 BORREGO  9  10  10  9  9  10  9 10   9     94

Round 1 Double jab and hook from Heraldez..Combination..

Round 2 Combination from Borrego..Body shot from Herladez

Round 3 Triple jab from Heraldez…Combination..Borrego bleeding…Hook from Heraldez

Round 4:  Borrego counters on ropes..

Round 5 Combination from Heraldez..

Round 6 Straight left from Borrego..Combination from Heraldez..

Round 7 Combination from Borrego..Right from Heraldez..Good left..

Round 8 3 jabs from Heraldez..Right…Left from Borrego…Borrego bleeding from his nose..Good combination from Heraldez…Body shot

Round 9  LEFT AND DOWN GOES HERALDEZ …Good body shot…Good left hook..

Round 10 Left from Borrego..Jab from Heraldez…Body shot..

96-93, 97-92 TWICE FOR JUAN HERALDEZ




Former World Champion Shawn Porter Withdraws from Bout With Thomas Durlorme Scheduled for Mayweather vs. McGregor Preliminary Bouts on FOX & FOX Deportes


LAS VEGAS (August 17, 2017) – Former world champion and top welterweight contender “Showtime” Shawn Porter has pulled out of the welterweight battle against former title challenger Thomas Dulorme that headlines the Mayweather vs. McGregor preliminary bouts presented by Mayweather Promotions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Porter withdrew from the match due to personal reasons, which included a death in his family.

Top welterweight challenger and 2008 Olympic bronze medalist Yordenis Ugas (19-3, 9 KOs) will replace Porter and now take on Dulorme (24-2, 18 KOs) in the main preliminary bout on FOX and FOX Deportes.

“On behalf of Mayweather Promotions we send our prayers and deepest condolences to the Porter family,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “In boxing we have to deal with curveballs that constantly come at us. Thomas Dulorme has been training hard and is ready to face Yordenis Ugas. Ugas is a tough competitor that shouldn’t be overlooked, and Dulorme is ready. The fight fans are definitely in for an outstanding show between Dulorme and Ugas come Aug. 26.”

“I have been training for this fight for a several weeks now, I knew at the-time Porter was going to be a tough challenger so I took training camp extremely serious,” said Dulorme. “Fighting on a card this big, you cannot doubt anyone in front of you. My new opponent doesn’t change much. All I can do is continue to stay focused and listen to my team and bring the best fight I can.”

“It’s an honor to be fighting on one of the biggest boxing cards in history and fighting in the same ring as one of the most famous boxers in the world – Floyd Mayweather,” Ugas said. “This is the type of fight that I’ve been looking forward to having since I came back last year after being off for almost three years. This will be my fifth fight in a year. And this is the second fight that I’ve taken on short notice this year. But it doesn’t bother me because I’m always training. Dulorme is a tremendous fighter. He’s very aggressive and very technical. He’s going to get my very best as I know I will get the very best from him. It’s really an honor to fight a quality opponent on a card like this.”

Saturday’s coverage begins on FOX and FOX Deportes with a one-hour Prefight Show at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Prelims on FOX and FOX Deportes begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and leads directly into the Mayweather vs. McGregor event that will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The action on FOX and FOX Deportes will include a 10-round battle between unbeaten prospects Juan Heraldez (12-0, 8 KOs) and Jose Miguel Borrego (13-0, 12 KOs).

Representing Puerto Rico, by way of French Guiana, Dulorme last fought in January when he stopped Brian Jones in the sixth-round to pick up his second straight win after the 27-year-old had previously challenged Terrence Crawford for a vacant world title in 2015. Prior to his title opportunity, Dulorme picked up impressive victories over Hank Lundy, Karim Mayfield and DeMarcus Corley. He will look to make a statement on his way to another world title opportunity with a win against Ugas.

Ugas will enter the ring for the third time in six months when he faces Dulorme on Aug. 26. The 31-year-old Ugas, a bronze medal winner for the Cuban team in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, has been on an impressive four-fight roll that started last year when he scored a decision victory over then unbeaten Jamal James and followed it up by stopping then unbeaten Bryant Perrella in the fourth round. Ugas continued to take down contenders in 2017 as he defeated Levan Ghvamichava by decision on Feb. 2 before stepping in at the last minute two months later to stop Nelson Lara.

For more information: visit http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com and www.t-mobilearena.com. Follow on Twitter @MayweatherPromo, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportesand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.




Exciting Former World Champion Shawn Porter Meets Former Title Challenger Thomas Dulorme in Welterweight Battle That Headlines Mayweather vs. McGregor Preliminary Bouts on FOX & FOX Deportes


LAS VEGAS (August, 10, 2017) – Former world champion and top welterweight contender “Showtime” Shawn Porter (27-2-1, 17 KOs) will take on former title challenger Thomas Dulorme (24-2, 18 KOs) in a 10-round showdown that headlines Mayweather vs. McGregor preliminary bouts presented by Mayweather Promotions live on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“As always I’m just excited to get in the ring and perform,” said Porter. “I think fighting on network television again will be awesome and a huge opportunity for me. And to do it before one of the most anticipated sporting events ever is even more exciting. I feel like I’ve earned this spot and I’m ready to give the people the appetizer they deserve! ‘Showtime’ Shawn Porter never disappoints and I will prove that again on August 26.”

“I’m thankful for this opportunity on August 26,” said Dulorme. “I have been blessed with great fans and my last fight helped me to gain a little more recognition, but I am just getting started. I had a great performance back in January with a TKO victory, and this fight I plan to bring that same mindset into the ring. I am ready to win and to fight on Floyd Mayweather’s card is a blessing. I have a great team behind me and I am confident. I know my opponent is tough, but he’s just the opponent I need to really show everyone that I am even tougher.”

Saturday’s coverage begins on FOX and FOX Deportes with a one-hour Prefight Show at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Prelims on FOX and FOX Deportes begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and leads directly into the Mayweather vs. McGregor event that will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Action on FOX and FOX Deportes will include a 10-round super lightweight bout between unbeaten prospects Juan Heraldez (12-0, 8 KOs) and Jose Miguel Borrego (13-0, 12 KOs).

“After my last fight, I gained a lot of inspiration to show more to my fans,” said Heraldez. “I’m bringing the best Juan Heraldez to this fight. My last few performances have been great, and I’ve shown that I can have the power to knock my opponents out. I’m familiar with my opponent, but truthfully he’s not a factor and on fight night my 0 will not go.”

“This is a great chance for me to continue to show that I have the skills to be a future world champion,” said Borrego. “I’m going to leave everything in the ring and put on a great show for the fans like I always do. I respect my opponent and I think this will be a great fight, but I will end the night victorious.”

“The fans are in for a show,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Not only do we have an amazing lineup of fights on our PPV telecast, we have a stacked undercard and plan to give the fans more. More fights, more access. We plan to get the fans excitement brewing with matchups like Dulorme vs. Porter and Heraldez vs. Borrego all on network TV. These are some even matchups and we are happy to have FOX and FOX Deportes on board to showcase this talent ahead of the grand finale that is, Mayweather vs. McGregor.”

A physically gifted fighter who had a strong amateur career, Porter became the WBC’s number one contender with a stoppage of Andre Berto in April after a close loss to unified champion Keith Thurman in June 2016 that garnered unanimous Fight of the Year consideration. The 29-year-old won a welterweight world title when he defeated Devon Alexander in 2013 in Brooklyn before defending the title with a dominant stoppage of Paulie Malignaggi. The Akron, Ohio-native now lives and trains in Las Vegas and he bounced back from a previous defeat to Kell Brook to knockout Erick Bone and earn a unanimous over four-division world champion Adrien Broner in 2015.

Representing Puerto Rico, by way of French Guiana, Dulorme last fought in January when he stopped Brian Jones in the sixth-round to pick up his second straight win after the 27-year-old had previously challenged Terrence Crawford for a vacant world title in 2015. Prior to his title opportunity, Dulorme picked up impressive victories over Hank Lundy, Karim Mayfield and DeMarcus Corley. He will look to make a big statement on his way to another world title opportunity with a win against Porter.

Unbeaten and fighting out of Las Vegas under the Mayweather Promotions banner, Heraldez is unbeaten since turning pro in 2009, including a successful 2017 debut that saw him go eight rounds for the first time as he dropped Alfonso Olvera on his way to a unanimous decision. The 27-year-old earned five victories from 2015 through 2016 and will have an opportunity to make a statement against his toughest opponent to date on August 26.

At just 19-years-old, Borrego has burst onto the scene displaying big knockout power as he made his U.S. debut in February with a first round stoppage and followed it by stopping John Delperdang in the seventh-round of a televised contest this April. Fighting out of Aguascalientes, Mexico, Borrego most recently scored a fourth-round stoppage of once-beaten Kevin Watts in June and enters this contest on an 11-fight knockout streak.

The undercard bouts in the arena will kick-off with 2016 Great Britain Olympian Savannah Marshall making her pro debut in a four-round super middleweight attraction. The 26-year-old from Hartlepool, England was an Amateur World Champion, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist and the only boxer to have ever defeated two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields.

For more information: visit http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com and www.t-mobilearena.com. Follow on Twitter @MayweatherPromo, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportesand www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.




Jack and DeGale fight to draw in thrilling super middleweight unification bout

Badou Jack and James DeGale fought to a thrilling draw in front of 10, 128 enthusiastic fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York in a IBF/WBC Super Middleweight unification bout.

DeGale dropped Jack in the 1st round from a pushing straight left hand.  DeGale out boxed Jack over the 1st half of the fight as he landed quick combinations, where Jack was loading up and landing an occasional big shot on the ropes.  The effects of those punches started to show on DeGale as his face started to mark up around the 8th round.

Behind on the cards, Jack went after DeGale and landed a huge counter right hand that sent DeGale to the canvas.  DeGale was clearly hurt and it was in doubt the he would see the final bell.  Jack landed a huge combination that hurt a now very bloody DeGale.  DeGale did wise to hold on and even land a big left at the bell.

When the scores were read, it became clear that Jack needed that late knockdown as DeGale took a card 114-112, while 2 cards were even at 113-113.

Jack, 167.2 lbs of Stockholm, SWE is 20-1-3.  DeGale, 166.5 lbs of Harlesdon, UK is 23-1-1.

BADOU JACK

“He was doing a lot of running, he was throwing a lot of shit at my guard.  I thought I won the fight. I finished stronger.  His knockdown was a flash knockdown. I won the fight.

 

“Let’s do it again at light heavyweight. It’s time to move to light heavyweight. 

“I had to dig down deep and try to knock him out and finish strong. I definitely finished strong. If it wasn’t for the flash knockdown, it’s a different result.
“I was never hurt on the knockdown. My feet got tangled a little bit but I need to watch it again.
“I had him before the knockdown even happened. I knocked his tooth out. He couldn’t keep his mouthpiece in after that.
“It’s the third time now I’ve had a draw I didn’t agree with. I’m the so-called home fighter and it still happened.
“Next time I have to knock him out. That’s it.”

 

JAMES DEGALE

“I’ve got huge respect for this man, but I thought I won that.  I landed the cleanest shots.  

 

“Let’s do it again.  Let’s do it again in London. 

 

“He hit me (in the 12th), but I was more off balance.  I respect him.  He’s a good, round fighter.  Let’s go again.”

 

FLOYD MAYWEATHER

“Badou Jack has got too big for 168 pounds.  We had plans after this fight to move up to light heavyweight. This is the second time in a row Badou has gotten a bad decision.  James DeGale is a hell of a fighter, but tonight he didn’t win.  At the end of the day, I don’t know what the judges are looking at.”

Gervonta Davis won the IBF Junior Lightweight championship with a 7th round stoppage over Jose Pedraza.

Davis came out landing quick and hard shots.  He mixed up between single and hard combinations that had Pedraza’s nose bleeding by the 3rd round.

Pedraza made a brief comeback in round 4 s he landed a heavy combination to the head.  That was short lived as Davis started to turn back the tide in round five.  In round six, he started landing more heavy shots to the point that Pedraza was thoroughly examined by ringside doctors before the 7th frame.  It did not last long after that as a hard body shot doubled over Pedraza, which left him oipen for a wicked uppercut that was followed by a left that dumped the champion on his backside.  Pedraza gamely got to his feet, but the bout was stopped at 2:36.

Davis, 129 lbs of Baltimore, MD is now 17-0 with 16 knockouts.  Pedraza, 129.5 lbs of Caguas, PR is 22-1.\

GERVONTA DAVIS
“It felt great to go in there in front of my fans and take boxing more seriously. I want to thank Floyd Mayweather, Leonard Ellerbe, Al Haymon, my hometown support and my team.
“It means a lot [to win this world title]. I put in hard work. My team put in hard work. We came out on top. I have a great promoter and a great boxer backing me and it felt great.
“I had experience. I told you all that. In this camp I studied Pretty Boy Floyd. Just to stay composed. He caught me with a lot of good shots. I took it and I dished it back out. That’s how you know I’m a real dog.”
FLOYD MAYWEATHER
“For this training camp, I didn’t want to be around him. I didn’t want to talk to him. I wanted him to focus so he could out there and be the best and that’s what he did tonight. Is this the future of boxing? Absa-f***-lutely.”
JOSE PEDRAZA
“I am okay. My strategy was to fight him from a distance and try to fight him inside to lose some of the power and it didn’t work that way.
“At the end, I was trying to put on too much pressure and it didn’t work.
“There was a moment that I adjusted to the game plan and something was telling me to come out and fight him and it didn’t work.
“There is no excuse, I was at 135 and coming down to accept the fight wasn’t the right move.”

Amanda Serrano won a 10-round unanimous decision over Yazmin Rivas to retain the WBO Junior Featherweight championship.

Serrano, 1208 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 97-93, 98-92  and 99-91  and is now 31-1-1.  Rivas, 121.5 lb so Torreon, MX is 35-10-1.

AMANDA SERRANO
 
“We knew she was going to come to fight. She’s a Mexican fighter who’s very tough and experienced. I had to show her my power and my skills.
“She’s definitely a really good fighter. I was glad to get 10-rounds in and I hope the fans enjoyed the fight.
“We wanted the knockout but I was ready for 10-rounds. People who think I’m just a brawler saw that I’m a great boxer today.
“We picked a tough opponent because we wanted to showcase that I can beat good fighters and take a punch if I have to. I can do everything in the ring. We wanted the toughest fighter out there and she came to fight.
“She hit hard but I hit her harder. I could hear her breathing in between rounds and I knew I had her. It was a great night for women’s boxing and I hope it keeps getting bigger and bigger.
“We want the best. My goal is to drop to 118 and win a title in my fifth division. I want to fight other champions. My goal is to be the first Puerto Rican to hold world titles in five weight classes.”
YAZMIN RIVAS
 
“It was an excellent fight. I followed all of the instructions from my corner and I believe that I won. I think the last round was very close, but I think I did well in all the rounds.
“My face is clean the only mark is from a head butt. It happened early in the fight.
“I knew everything was against me and to win I had to knock her out. Unfortunately it didn’t happen today.
“I believe that after this fight, women will have more opportunities to show their skills on television.”

Immanuwel Aleem scored a stunning 6th round stoppage over Ievgen Khytrov in a scheduled 10-round middleweight bout.

Aleem dropped Khytrov in round’s three and six with powerful left hooks, and then finished him off with hard flurry on the ropes.

Aleem, 158.5 lbs of Richmond, VA is 17-0-1 with 10 knockouts.  Khytrov, 159.5 lbs of Brooklyn is 14-1.

“I stayed focused in there. They told us that he would throw a lot of punches. My power was strong early, but I let him gain some confidence after the first round, said Aleem.
“It took a little while to get into a rhythm. We wanted to touch him and move before we started to sneak something in. He started relaxing a little bit so I wanted to take advantage.
“He caught me a little bit, but only because I allowed him. Once I saw the opportunity, I caught him and knew he was going down.
“With a fighter who has a resume like that, I knew I couldn’t give him a second chance. I had to finish him off for sure.
“I’m not scared of any fighter. We want the best out there. Facing the best will only bring the best out of me.”

Thomas Dulorme stopped Brian Jones in the 6th round of their scheduled 8-round welterweight bout.

Dulorme, 145.8 lbs of Carolina, PR is now 24-2 with 16 knockouts.  Jones, 144.5 lbs of Los Angeles is now 13-7.

Adam Kownacki stopped Joshua Tufte in the 2nd round of their scheduled 8-round heavyweight bout.

Kownacki, 257.8 lbs of New York, NU is 15-0 with 12 knockouts.  Tufte, 265.8 lbs of Kernerville, NC is 19-2.

Noel Murphy remained perfect with a 6-round unanimous decision over Maxito Sainvil in a welterweight bout.

Murphy, 146.4 lbs of Woodlawn. NY won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 8-0.  Sainvil, 148.8 lbs of Nyack, NY is 4-1-1.

Kenny Robles made a successful pro debut with a 4-round unanimous decision over Latorie Woodberry in a welterweight bout.

Robles, 144 lbs of Staten Island, NY won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 1-0.  Woodberry, 141.6 lbs of Roanoke, VA 1-3-1.




Badou Jack & Thomas Dulorme Media Workout Quotes


LAS VEGAS (January 5, 2016) – Super middleweight champion Badou Jack spoke to media in Las Vegas Thursday, just days before he travels across the country for his world title unification showdown against James DeGale on Saturday, January 14 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME®.

Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT with super featherweight world champion Jose Pedraza defending againstundefeated contender Gervonta Davis.

Joining him at the workout at Mayweather Boxing Club was former title challenger Thomas Dulorme, who opens up action on SHOWTIME EXTREME in an eight-round welterweight bout against Brian Jones. Televised coverage on SHOWTIME EXTREME begins at 7 p.m. ET/PT and is headlined by junior featherweight world champion Amanda Serrano against former world champion Yazmin Rivas and also features Ievgen Khytrov battling Immanuwel Aleem in a 10-round matchup of undefeated rising middleweight contenders.

Tickets for the event promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $25. They can be purchased online (www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com) or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday:

BADOU JACK

“I feel really good mentally. I’m excited. All the hard work is done and now we’re just cruising. One more week and it’s on.

“This has been the best camp of my career. There’s been no distractions, no arguments just working hard and having fun while getting better.

“I had a better meal plan to cut weight leading up to this fight and it’s helped me out in training. I’m going to be 100 percent ready on fight night.

“The guy that wants it the most and whoever is the smartest in the ring will be the winner. I plan on being both.

“I know DeGale wants to be great too. He’s going into people’s backyards and searching for glory. But I can’t speak for him. All I can do is speak with my actions.

“I’m not expecting an easy fight. I’ve been the underdog before. People have written me off forever. It’s nothing new to me. DeGale is a good fighter, but I believe in myself.

“I’m going to have a good jab, use my range and be smart in there. I think my skillset can take away any advantage he thinks he has. Timing kills speed.

“His awkward style can make him tough to fight. He’s not by the book. He’s not very technical but he’s an excellent fighter. I don’t want any excuses from him when I beat him.

“We have a good game plan and I have a good team behind me. I won’t get frustrated in there. I believe in my team and I believe in myself. I’m not worried about anything.

“I’m going to win the fight. That’s the main thing. We’ll see how I get it done. If it’s a knockout, it’s a knockout. If I have to win a close decision, it doesn’t matter. I’m going to win no matter what.”

THOMAS DULORME

“I feel very excited to fight under the support of Mayweather Promotions for the first time. I’m happy with the decision I made and where my career is going.

“New York is my city and it’s my favorite place to fight. There are a lot of Puerto Ricans and I can’t wait to perform in front of them.

“I feel very strong physically. I had a great training camp and have worked hard every day and listened to my coaches. I can’t wait to get in the ring and break my opponent down.

“This is a very good show with a lot of exciting fights. All the fans should come out because it’s going to be a great night from start to finish.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“A lot of things have contributed to Badou becoming the fighter who he is today. I think that he’s improved as a champion. A lot of the times people don’t understand what fighters have to go through early in their careers. Badou has overcome a lot of adversity, including evolving from his loss. There are very few fighters who become better fighters after they become champions. Badou is living the American Dream and Floyd and myself are very proud of him.

“I predict that Badou is going to deliver a knockout. I envision him taking a handful of rounds to figure out DeGale’s style, while still being aggressive. In the later rounds, I think that he’s unstoppable.

“James DeGale is a tremendous fighter. I’ve followed his career for quite some time. He’s a very flashy and creative fighter. He kind of makes it up as he goes. His style is unique, but there are some things that Badou and his team have put into place to disrupt DeGale. Badou Jack has seen every style out there. He’s mentally and physically prepared to take care of his opponent.

“The advice I’ve given Badou is to stay focused and stay in the moment. Don’t worry about anything other than what is in front of you. You can’t look forward to the next fight or let anything throw you off. He’s put in the work. Most importantly, his mental state is right where it needs to be.

“Mayweather Promotions is ready to invade Brooklyn. We were able to work everything out and bring the first fight of the New Year to the city. We’re very excited to go and help Badou and the rest of our fighters put on a great show.”

# # #

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @BadouJack, @JamesDegale1, @Sniper_Pedraza, @Gervontaa, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotionswww.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter. This event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.




Everyone’s ‘Bud’: Crawford obliterates Dulorme

Terence Crawford
ARLINGTON, Texas – It is said a fighter becomes 20-percent better upon winning a world title. Undefeated junior welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford appears to have gained an additional 20-percent by winning 2014 fighter of the year.

Saturday at College Park Center, before a crowd that compensated with passion for what it lacked in density, Crawford (26-0, 18 KOs) showed his trademark composure while waiting for Puerto Rican challenger Thomas Dulorme (22-2, 14 KOs) to overestimate his own talent, conditioning or chin. At nearly the midway moment of the 12-round match, Dulorme did just that, Crawford caught him with a signature combination, and at 1:51 of round 6, the match was over.

“That’s why he’s fighter of the year!” cheered promoter Bob Arum.

“I had a great training camp,” Crawford said afterward. “I was ready for anything he gave me tonight. It was just a matter of time. I feel very strong in this weight division.”

The match began tentatively. Neither man landed many meaningful punches in the first two rounds, and if there were a surprise it was how widely Crawford’s misses went – how easily Dulorme timed him and pulled back from peril – and how otherwise inactive the Nebraskan appeared, contenting himself with waiting for Dulorme to make errors that did not come initially.

A Crawford left hook to the body in round 3, though, began a transformation of the fight’s complexion.

Showmanship and closing rounds effectively gave Crawford whatever scoring advantage he enjoyed after four – as Dulorme got increasingly hesitant the more demonstratively confident Crawford acted.

“He did exactly what we wanted him to do,” said Crawford’s trainer, Brian McIntyre. “We knew (Dulorme) was going to gas out. He’s too tight, he gasses out.

“We call him ‘Sugar Chin’.”

At the beginning of round 6, Crawford landed a left hook, right cross combination, 3-2, that ruined Dulorme. Three knockdowns followed, as Crawford calmly laid waste to the man in front of him.

There may be more popular fighters in the world right now, but it is doubtful there are better or more complete ones.

ISMAIL MUWENDO VS. ROLANDO CHINEA
When two undefeated prospects face-off, brutal affairs often result. That was the case in Saturday’s co-main event, when Uganda’s Ismail Muwendo (17-0, 12 KOs) and Pennsylvania’s Rolando Chinea (10-1-1, 6 KOs) traded fists for eight rounds that were not even as their majority decision for Muwendo indicated: 76-76, 78-74, 79-73.

In the opening rounds, the Ugandan’s speed and reflexes appeared to overwhelm the Pennsylvanian; but for some quick body work in round 2, Chinea looked like a young man tapping away at a grown man. As the fight progressed, Muwendo began to raze him, opening a cut over Chinea’s left eye in round 4, one that garnered a ringside physician’s appraisal before round 5 began.

Chinea’s subsequent idea was a good one – smother the Ugandan and keep him from building forward momentum – but ultimately Chinea did not have the power or accuracy to dissuade Muwendo’s onslaught.

After taking a beating in round 5 that made his corner tell him to win big in the next, with the implication they’d not allow another round if he didn’t, Chinea went out and absorbed blows enough to tire Muwendo a bit in round 6.

Ultimately, Chinea surprised most in attendance by not just making it to the final bell but winning the eighth round on any honest scorecard.

UNDERCARD
The evening’s final undercard bout saw San Antonio welterweight Benjamin “Da Blaxican” Whitaker (9-1, 2 KOs) provide a stiffer-than-expected test for undefeated Kosovar Skender Halili (8-1, 8 KOs), blemishing Halili’s record with a unanimous decision judges scored 80-72, 78-74, 79-73 for the San Antonian. Whitaker’s speed gave Halili trouble from the opening bell, and Whitaker’s clever combinations and willingness to trade on even terms at unexpected moments, too, troubled the undefeated Kosovar. Halili showed a lack of power that belied his sparkly record, failing to dent Whitaker the times he did connect with his chin.

Saturday’s third match, a tilt between undefeated Russian cruiserweight Medzhid Bektemirov (16-0, 13 KOs) – a physically strong man’s whose total lack of urgency is offset by broadcaster HBO’s recent fascination with all things former-Soviet Bloc – and Ghanaian Michael Gbenga (16-19, 16 KOs), ended in a wide unanimous decision for the Russian by official scores of 80-72, 80-72 and 79-73. Menacing as Bektemirov may look, he failed to imperil Gbenga even once, in 24 minutes of stalking, scowling and launching long, slow left-hook leads.

Before that, Michigan super middleweight Anthony Barnes (8-0, 6 KOs), a man who wears Kronk on his trunks but fancies himself a small and slow Muhammad Ali, easily decisioned Arlington’s own Martinez Porter (3-4-4, 1 KO) by unanimous scores of 59-55, 59-55 and 58-56. Wheeling to his left and throwing few meaningful punches, Barnes benefited from an opponent with poor offense and porous defense. A good closing round, in which Barnes landed a smattering of right crosses, improved their otherwise lackluster affair.

Saturday’s first bout, a middleweight scrap betwixt Texans, Dallas’ Mike Tufariello (4-2-2, 4 KOs) and Schertz’s Eddie Tigs (1-5-3), was the sort of honest effort one expects from otherwise hopeless local fighters on an undercard. Though neither man has much of a future in the sport, it was heartwarming to see two men epitomizing the verb “to fight” – an increasingly rare occurrence. The match ended in a questionable draw, with all three judges scoring 38-38, and Tigs having dropped Tufariello in round 1 – a knockdown omitted from all three judges’ tallies, somehow – and then having dropped the two middle rounds on official cards.

Opening bell rang on a cavernous College Park Center at 5:45 local time.