WBO 154-Pound Title (Interim) – 12 Rounds

Tim Tszyu – 153 ½ lbs.

Tony Harrison – 153 ½ lbs.

Referee: Danrex Tapdasan; Judges: Zoltan Enyedi (Hungary), Katsuhiko Nakamura (Japan), Benoit Roussel (Canada)

FLASH QUOTES:

Tim Tsyzu: “I’m locked in now, and everything’s out of the way. I’m not nervous. Feel my heartbeat.”

Tony Harrison: “The weight cut has always been my problem, but not this time. I’ll put on some weight, but I’m not looking to go in there 180 pounds. Whatever my body allows. I looked into his eyes and to me, he’s nervous. I keep hearing people counting me out, and I don’t understand why. I’m from the Motor, man. I’m from Detroit. You ever seen a rottweiler fight a chihuahua? It’s just a different type of dog. I just think you guys have seen your dog only bite other chihuahuas. He hasn’t been in front of a rottweiler yet.”

WHAT’S AT STAKE: The winner of Tszyu-Harrison will become the mandatory challenger to undisputed super welterweight king Jermell Charlo. Tszyu (21-0, 15 KOs) elected to face the veteran Harrison, a highly skilled, crafty fighter after Tszyu’s scheduled match with Charlo on January 28 was scratched when Charlo broke his hand in training. Harrison (29-3-1, 21 KOs) outboxed and edged Charlo in 2018 to capture a world title before he dropped their rematch a year later. In his last fight, Tszyu rose from a first-round knockdown to dominate former title challenger Terrell Gausha last March in his U.S. and SHOWTIME debut. Now Tszyu, 28, will face another prideful veteran in Detroit’s Harrison, who hopes to spoil Tszyu’s homeland return.

The undisputed king of the 154-pound division, Charlo will join the SHOWTIME announce team live from the CBS Studios in New York City as a special guest to lend his expertise on a fight he will no doubt have a rooting interest in. With a potential rubber match with Harrison or a meeting with the undefeated upstart Tszyu possibly looming, Charlo will bring his trademark passion and microphone skills on Saturday night as the SHOWTIME announce team calls the fight remotely from The Big Apple.

Charlo will be joined by veteran sportscaster and “The Last Stand” podcaster Brian Custer, who will host the SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast remotely from New York City and call the action with three-division world champion Abner Mares and International Boxing Hall of Famer Steve Farhood bothserving as analysts. Farhoodwill also serve as the unofficial scorer, while fellow Hall of Famer Jimmy Lennon Jr. handles ring announcing duties Down Under. Four-time Emmy^® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. will executive-produce the broadcast with Ray Smaltz III producing and Chuck McKean directing.

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

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – March 10, 2023 – Undefeated Australian superstar Tim Tszyu and former world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison met face-to-face in front of the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge and famed Sydney Opera House on Friday, putting their differences aside to shake hands and wish each other good luck at the final press conference ahead of their showdown for the vacant Interim WBO 154-pound title live on SHOWTIME Saturday March 11 at 10:45 p.m. ET/7:45 p.m. PT.

While Harrison strolled onto the dais shirtless and looking supremely confident, Tszyu took his time at Bennelong Lawn and Royal Botanic Gardens before exiting a Dodge Ram Viper V10 in a dazzling blue suit.

“I like Tim,” Harrison said on stage. “I don’t think he knows how corny he is, but I like him. That’s cool the way he rolled up. That’s him. I like it. I’m just different.”

“I’m not into all this diva stuff, rolling up in a car,” Tszyu admitted. “I just roll with the punches. All this other stuff, it doesn’t matter to me.”

Here is more of what the fighters had to say:

TIM TSZYU

“I see him, and he looks dry, but he looks ready. I don’t really like Tony right now. I’m ready to fight right now. There’s no kisses and hugs happening. I’m coming to fight. There’s a dog in me right now. 

“Tony’s a funny guy. He’s a good talker and he’s a banter-type guy and he’s got a little comedian in him. Everyone’s different the way we do things personality wise. So let him be him.

“I’m coming here in a dog fight. This is the opponent I need to show what I can do. This is a different Tim you will see. I feel in a different mode. I just feel different. I had 350 rounds of sparring, and that’s a lot of rounds and I tapered at the right time. I just feel in tremendous shape. As the rounds go up, the more energy I get.

“I’m not judging Tony from his past, I’m judging Tony for his preparation for this fight. Because what he was before is not what he is now. He could be much better, or he could be much worse. He could be full-steam rounds 9 through 12, or he could be hitting rock bottom. Who knows?”

TONY HARRISON

“I feel amazing. In past fights I’d weigh 162, 63. But I’m right there. Not only physically but mentally I feel amazing. I hear Tim speak about how skinny I am and how frail I look, but I came up here without a shirt on so you could visualize what you’re about to touch. I want you to see it, believe it. Visualize it, son. I came here to show exactly what you’re going to see. I’m not here to catfish you. I want you to go to sleep and dream about me and see what you’re about to get.

“Fighting for me is fun. I’ve been fighting every single day of my life. I don’t think he’s had to endure half the stuff that I have. This fight, this press conference is fun for me. Like I said, I feel great.

“He got out of that car like a diva. You had someone open the door for you. I’m not talking about the type of suit you got on, I’m talking about how you got out of that car like a diva. Like, come on, man. He’s just different. I’m not knocking him. What floats his boat floats his, what floats mine floats mine, but Sunday we’re gonna be in the same boat and let’s see who makes it off.

“I already have visualized how this fight is coming. I think I know how this fight is going to play out, and I think the whole world knows how this fight plays out. For me, expect the unexpected. I know he expects me to do one thing, but expect the unexpected. I know we’re both going into war and it’s going to be a great fight.”

GEORGE ROSE, No Limit Boxing CEO

“We have here two of the best 154-pound fighters in the world outside of the undisputed champion. They are without a doubt the two best fighters in the division. A lot of people think Tim is crazy for taking such a fight before the undisputed, but that’s Tim Tszyu and he wants big fights. Tony Harrison is an absolute freak of a fighter. He’s at the top for a reason. He’s up here because he’s that good. This is a chance for Tim Tszyu to show the world what he’s got.

“We could be waiting for Jermell Charlo, but I’d be bored. Everyone here would be bored. We like putting on good fights and that’s what we are going to do until we can get into the ring with Jermell Charlo. We will keep putting on big fights for Tim Tszyu and for Australia.”

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

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – March 1, 2023 – Undefeated Australian superstar Tim Tszyu will return to fight in front of his hometown fans when he takes on former world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison for the vacant Interim WBO 154-pound title headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, March 11 (Sunday, March 12 in Australia) from Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast  begins at 10:45 p.m. ET/7:45 p.m. PT and features Tszyu, the son of former unified champion Kostya Tszyu, as he looks for a career-best victory against the veteran former champion Harrison. Undisputed Super Welterweight World Champion Jermell Charlo will join host Brian Custer, Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares at the CBS Studios in New York City as a special guest. Hall of Famer Steve Farhood serves as unofficial scorer.

Tszyu had originally been scheduled to face Charlo in a January clash before Charlo was forced to withdraw due to injury. Harrison, who arrived in Australia this week, has his own history with Charlo, having won his world title by defeating Charlo in 2018, before dropping their rematch. Now, the winner on March 11 will put themselves in prime position to not only face Charlo, but to become an undisputed world champion. The event is promoted by No Limit Boxing and The Rose Brothers, in association with TGB Promotions.

“Tim Tszyu and Tony Harrison have both sought out the biggest challenges in the stacked 154-pound division and that continues on March 11 live on SHOWTIME from Australia,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Wildly popular in his home country, Tszyu will have the home crowd edge, but this is precisely the kind of challenge that brings out the best in a fighter like Harrison. The 154-pound division has delivered classic fight, after classic fight, and March 11 certainly shapes up to be the next chapter in that story.”

The 28-year-old Tszyu (21-0, 15 KOs) has quickly climbed the rankings in the 154-pound division with an all-action, aggressive style. The notable names on his resume include former welterweight champion Jeff Horn, whom Tszyu stopped in round eight, and Terrell Gausha, a top contender and member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his US. and SHOWTIME debut against Gausha and showed his poise and toughness by rallying back from a first-round knockdown to win the fight via unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion and who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011.

“I can’t underestimate Tony Harrison, but with the way I’ve been training, I’m extremely confident that I’m going to give my fans a big KO victory,” said Tszyu. “Full credit to him for taking the challenge and coming to Australia, but he’s going home empty-handed. It’s exciting that my fans in the U.S. will be able to watch this matchup on SHOWTIME and I hope they’re ready to see a great atmosphere and a thrilling fight.”

The fighting pride of Detroit, Mich., Harrison (29-3-1, 21 KOs) spent his early boxing career under the tutelage of the late Emanuel Steward in the legendary Kronk Gym. As a professional, the 32-year-old is still considered one of the most skilled fighters in the sport. Despite coming up short in his first two attempts at a world title, the third time was the charm for Harrison, who shocked the boxing world in December 2018 by outpointing Jermell Charlo to earn the WBC title. Their rematch one year later ranks among the best fights of 2019. Harrison and Charlo fought on even terms until Charlo stopped him in the eleventh round to regain the belt. Harrison returned to the ring for the first time since that fight in April 2021, fighting Bryant Perrella to a draw and most recently, dominated Sergio Garcia on his way to a unanimous decision victory in April 2022.

“I’m here on a mission,” said Harrison. “My only focus is on Tim Tszyu. I’m extremely confident in my abilities and in my training, but I know Tim is going to be tough competition. I can’t wait to see the crowd all out there to support him, because I’m going to give them no choice but to love me too. I hope he’s ready for 12 grueling rounds, because I’m ready to go as long as he can last.” 

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast is executive produced by four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr., with Ray Smaltz III producing and Chuck McKean directing.

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

It will be announced on tonight’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast that Tim Tszyu, son of boxing legend Kostya Tszyu and an undefeated action fighter, will return to his birth place of Sydney, Australia to face former world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison for the vacant Interim WBO 154-pound title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL telecast live on Saturday, March 11 (Sunday, March 12 in Australia) on SHOWTIME^®.

Tonight’s SHOWTIME tripleheader kicks off at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features undefeated two-division champion Rey Vargas meeting top contender O’Shaquie Foster for the vacant WBC Super Featherweight World Championship in the main event from the Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The winner of Tszyu-Harrison is in line for a prized shot at undisputed super welterweight king Jermell Charlo. Tszyu (21-0, 15 KOs) elected to face the veteran Harrison, a highly skilled, crafty fighter after Tszyu’s scheduled match with Charlo on January 28 was scratched when Charlo broke his hand in training. Harrison (29-3-1, 21 KOs) outboxed and edged Charlo in 2018 to capture a world title before he dropped their rematch a year later. In his last fight, Tszyu rose from a first-round knockdown to dominate former title challenger Terrell Gausha last March in his U.S. and SHOWTIME debut. Now Tszyu, 28, will face another prideful veteran as he tries to revisit his match with Charlo, while Detroit’s Harrison, 32, hopes to spoil Tszyu’s homeland return and gain a third fight with Charlo in a matchup that will be announced tonight.

In what was a sure-fire Fight of the Year candidate. Sebastian Fundora outlasted Erickson Lubin after round nine of their junior middleweight bout at The Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas,

In round two, Fundora dropped Lubin with a left uppercut.

In round seven, Fundora battered Lubin with flush uppercuts that opened up a cut around the right eye of Lubin. Lubin came storming back and rocked Fundora with a vicious combination and sent him to the canvas. That brutal round paved the way as the two slugged it out until round nine, when Fundora landed several more vicious uppercuts. When Lubin went back to the corner, Lubin’s face was swelled to where it was starting to disfigure and Lubin’s trainer Kevin Cunningham pulled the plug on the fight.

Fundora, 152.8 lbs of Cochella, CA is now 19-0-1 with 13 knockouts. Lubin, 153.2 lbs of West Palm Beach, FL is 24-2.

“I think this was probably my best performance ever,” said Fundora. “It was a back-and-forth fight. He really brought his hammer but I decided to bring my drill. The uppercut was landing like no other. The uppercut is my lucky punch. I’m here in Vegas, so I feel a little lucky, and that’s my lucky punch. It lands most of the time with everybody. Southpaw. Right hand. It doesn’t matter. Once I find that, I feel like the job’s done.”

“I got hit with a good punch and I didn’t feel like I needed to get hit again so I took a knee to get a little breather in and I recovered,” said Fundora. “I intentionally took a knee. I knew I had to take a knee because if I kept getting hit like that it wouldn’t be smart for me and I wouldn’t be able to recollect myself.”

“I think it was a good decision for Kevin Cunningham to stop the fight,” said Fundora. “His face shifted from round one to round nine. It completely morphed and there was a lot of blood coming out. He’s a tough fighter. He was in the game the whole time but there’s no need to get hurt that much.”

“I see Charlo winning the fight against Castaño,” said Fundora. “I feel like he’ll be too strong for Castaño the second time. If Castaño wins, that’s great too. I just want to go after all of them. This is the interim belt so I want the world champion title. I want the real deal.”

Harrison Decisions Garcia

Former world champion Tony Harrison won a 10-round unanimous decision over Sergio Garcia in a junior middleweight contest.

Harrison landed 197 of 491 punches; Garcia was 103 of 592.

Harrison, 153,4 lbs of Detroit, MI won by scores of 100-90 twice and 98-92 and is now 29-3-1. Garcia, 152.6 lbs of Spain is 33-2.

“I pitched a shutout against a guy who just fought a guy that’s in the main event right now,” said Harrison. “Muscles are the way in the street, but skills pay the bills.”

“All I needed to do was land one good punch, but I didn’t,” said Garcia. “Harrison fought his fight and was very smart with his jab and his elusiveness, major credit to him.”

“He was swinging for the fences,” said Harrison. “When he was missing shots, all I heard was ‘whoosh!’. I felt it. I was trying to throw a few more counter shots in between. My composure was everything.”

“I can put on a show all I want, but the bottom line is that I need wins and I have two losses in a row instead,” said Garcia. “Reality is that I’m not at a championship level yet, but I’ll keep fighting.”

“The first thing I’m going to do, I haven’t seen my kids in six months,” said Harrison. “I want to see my kids. My step two, I have a gym called Superbad Fitness. Every time it rains, it pours in the inside of my gym. My job is to find guys that can donate to our non-profit to save about a hundred kids that work out in my gym every day. That’s step number two for me. Step number three for me, I’m going to take a vacation.”

Salgado and Perrella fight to a draw

Bryant Perrella and Kevin Salgado fought to a 10-round split draw in a junior middleweight fight.

In round seven, Perrella started swelling under his left eye.

Perrella landed 98 of 503 punches; Salgado was 68 of 375.

Perrella won a card 97-93; Salgado took a card 96-94 and a third call was 95-95.

Salgado, 154.2 lbs of Nicolas Romero, MEX is 14-0-1. Perrella, 153.4 lbs of Pensacola, FL is 17-3-2. This is Perrella’s second consecutive draw.

“I thought my game plan and execution was great,” said Perrella. “I boxed smart. I broke him down. I’m not going to run from him. He was just winging big shots any time I would step in just trying to knock me out with one punch. I kept the jab in his face. Jabs to the body. Left hands. I hurt him. Everything was going great and it looked like I was sweeping all the rounds.”

“I was shocked by the decision,” said Perrella, who fought to a draw against Tony Harrison in his last outing prior to Saturday night. “Two draws in a row. I put my all into this and I get robbed at the end of the day. It’s a tough pill to swallow. I easily out boxed him. He barely landed any punches. I don’t know what more I can do. I did my best. It is what it is.”

“I felt like I won,” said Salgado. “All Perrella did was run around and away from me. Maybe if I had pressured a bit more, that last judge would have leaned more in my favor. Perrella kept throwing his jab but almost never connected. I think that tonight was definitely a positive step in the right direction towards becoming the next Mexican star in the United States, and I look forward to pleasing the fans with more Mexican-style fights in the future”

LAS VEGAS – March 18, 2022 – Top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will square off for the WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, April 9 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, part of Curio Collection by Hilton.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features former super welterweight world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison taking on highly regarded contender Sergio Garcia in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten super welterweight Kevin Salgado battling Bryant Perrella in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

The stacked tripleheader of 154-pound showdowns is topped by two of the division’s hottest young stars, as the streaking Lubin looks to stamp his ticket to a second world title opportunity while the fast-rising Fundora brings his signature all-action style into the toughest contest of his career to date. The victor will be in position to potentially face the winner of the undisputed 154-pound championship rematch between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño, which takes place Saturday, May 14 on SHOWTIME.

“There are few matchups more tantalizing in the loaded super welterweight division than Erickson Lubin vs. Sebastian Fundora,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Lubin has shown significant improvement since his first world title fight and can add another impressive win to his resume on April 9. The towering Fundora has also made a major mark on the division in his young career, capturing the imagination of fans with his impressive stature and aggressive style. With two other 154-pound showdowns on the card, fans can expect the drama and excitement that this weight class has delivered again and again over recent years to continue live on SHOWTIME from Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.”

The 26-year-old Lubin (24-1, 17 KOs) has put together an impressive six-bout winning streak since a loss to unified 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo in 2017. In his most recent outing, he knocked out former unified champion Jeison Rosario in June 2021. Prior to the Rosario fight, Lubin’s run included becoming the first person to stop former champion Ishe Smith and unanimous decision victories over Terrell Gausha and Nathaniel Gallimore. A native of Orlando, Fla., Lubin is trained by acclaimed coach Kevin Cunningham as he continues his quest toward another title opportunity. After a stellar amateur career, Lubin turned pro at 18 years old in 2013. He captured the attention of the boxing community at 19 when he became one of the youngest prospects to ever appear on the developmental series SHOBOX: The New Generation and soon after was named “Prospect Of The Year” by ESPN and Ring Magazine in 2016.

“This is my chance to show the world that I’m the best fighter in the division,” said Lubin. “This will separate me from all of the contenders I’ve been beating. I’ve been doing the champion’s job taking out all the contenders, so there’s no doubt in my mind that I will be running the division really soon. I have a really tall fighter in front of me in Sebastian Fundora, but I know how to make adjustments. We’ve brought in the right sparring and have prepared exactly how we’re supposed to. Everyone should definitely tune in, because it’s ‘Hammer Time’ on SHOWTIME once again.”

Fundora (18-0-1, 12 KOs) continues to rise up the super welterweight ranks and added his two most impressive wins to date in 2021. Fundora kicked off the year in May by stopping the rugged veteran Jorge Cota in four rounds, before defeating then unbeaten Sergio Garcia by unanimous decision in December. The six-foot-six brawler has reached this point by showing off the skills of a rugged boxer who is more comfortable fighting on the inside than most. Born in West Palm Beach, Fla. to his Mexican mother and Cuban father and trainer, Freddy – both boxers – the 24-year-old now lives and trains in Coachella, Calif.

“We’ve been working extremely hard during this camp to be 100% coming into battle,” said Fundora, whose all-action style has been compared to former world champion Antonio Margarito. “We’re prepared for any circumstances that should arise and we’re expecting a very professional and well prepared Lubin on April 9, nothing less. Our hard work and laser focus will lead us to victory in this fight. This is my chance to show everyone the first steps of what it means to be a champion.”

The pride of Detroit, Mich., Harrison (28-3-1, 21 KOs) spent his early boxing career under the tutelage of the late Emanuel Steward in the legendary Kronk Gym. As a professional, the 31-year-old is still considered one of the most skilled fighters in the sport despite coming up short in his first two attempts at a world title. The third time was the charm for Harrison, who shocked the boxing world in December 2018 by outpointing long-time world champion Jermell Charlo to earn the WBC title. Their rematch one year later ranks among the best fights of 2019. Harrison and Charlo fought on even terms until Charlo stopped him in the eleventh round to regain the belt. Harrison returned to the ring for the first time since that fight in April 2021, fighting Bryant Perrella to a draw.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and display my skills for the fans once again,” said Harrison. “Garcia knows everything about me, but I only know a little bit about him. So he has the advantage, but that’s just how I like it. Don’t miss this fight on April 9!”

The 29-year-old Garcia (33-1, 14 KOs) made his U.S. debut in December 2021, dropping a competitive decision against top contender Sebastian Fundora. Fighting out of Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain, Garcia has competed professionally since 2012. He ascended the rankings by traveling to the U.K. to defeat then unbeaten Ted Cheeseman on his home soil in 2019 and followed that up with a triumph over veteran contender Sergey Rabchenko. Garcia has added three victories since then, including 2020 wins over Pablo Mendoza and Gregory Trenel.

“I am very grateful to my team for this great opportunity to fight in Las Vegas against a former world champion,” said Garcia. “I’m looking forward to stepping into the ring. Harrison is a great champion and one of the best fighters in the division. But the future of my family is on the line in this fight and I want to win by knockout. My hope is that Sebastian Fundora wins his fight and then we can meet again for a rematch.”

A native of Mexico City, Salgado (14-0, 9 KOs) is the younger brother of former super featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado and now fights out of San Antonio, Texas as he nears his U.S. debut on April 9. The 24-year-old turned pro in late 2016 and delivered knockouts in six of his first nine outings. After scoring three-straight knockouts between September 2019 and February 2021, Salgado returned to the ring in October to defeat Ricardo Banuelos Cernas by unanimous decision. The triumph marked Salgado’s first 10-round fight, as he was able to sweep the cards according to all three judges.

“I’m facing a good opponent and I expect us to give the fans a great fight,” said Salgado. “I am in excellent condition and focused on my job in the ring on April 9. This is my opportunity to open the eyes of everyone in the division and show that there’s a new contender ready to come for the top spot. Just like my brother, I will become a world champion.”

The 32-year-old Perrella (17-3-1, 14 KOs) began boxing at age 15, amassing an impressive 70-9 amateur record before turning pro in 2012. Fighting out of Fort Myers, Fla, Perrella rose quickly through the pro ranks, stopping 13 of his first 14 opponents, including a second-round TKO over previously unbeaten David Grayton in June 2016. Three months later, he suffered his first pro defeat against current welterweight world champion Yordenis Ugas. Perella bounced back with victories over Breidis Prescott and Domonique Dolton before debuting at 154 pounds in April 2021. He challenged former champion Tony Harrison in his first super welterweight fight and earned a split-draw in their 12-round contest.

“I know that I’m facing a young fighter coming for his American dream on April 9,” said Perrella. “He’s hungry, undefeated and he doesn’t believe that he can be beat. But he’s never been in the ring with someone like me before. Not in sparring, not in a real fight. I’m going to show him the difference between us when that bell rings.”

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

LAS VEGAS (February 23, 2022) – Celebrities and professional athletes have expressed their support for unbeaten rising star Chris “Primetime” Colbert as they look forward to his upcoming matchup against undefeated Dominican Olympian Hector Garcia which headlines live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, February 26 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

Colbert vs. Garcia tops a stacked SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT as the undefeated fighters match up in a WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

High profile stars Deion Sanders, Tracy Morgan, Danny Garcia, Maino, Le’Veon Bell, Tony Harrison, Frank Gore, Gillie Da Kid, YXNG K.A., Tru Life and Jonathan Casillas all showed Colbert love in the days leading up to his ring return.

Check out what they had to say in this compilation video HERE.

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ABOUT COLBERT VS. GARCÍA
Colbert vs. García will see undefeated rising star Chris “Primetime” Colbert square off against unbeaten Dominican Olympian Hector García in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight World Title Eliminator headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, February 26 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast kicks off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature another unbeaten young phenom in the co-main event. Gary Antuanne Russell, a 2016 U.S. Olympian, faces former world champion Viktor Postol in a 10-round super lightweight bout, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin Ancajas defends his title against unbeaten Argentine Fernando Martinez in the televised opener of the loaded tripleheader.

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

LOS ANGELES (April 15, 2021) – Former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella previewed their main event showdown on a virtual press conference Thursday before they enter the ring on FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated super lightweight sensation Omar “El Relampago” Juárez battling Argentina’s Elías Araujo in the 10-round lightweight co-main event. The telecast opener will see the return of rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

Here is what Harrison and Perrella had to say Thursday from Los Angeles:

TONY HARRISON

“We’re looking forward to something exciting Saturday. It’s going to be a great fight and I’m looking to provide a strong and emphatic finish.

“I wouldn’t have picked Perrella for my fight to come back. I would have picked someone with more to lose, but to his credit, he’s coming up to an unfamiliar weight class to take me on. He’s going to be a great challenge and I appreciate him stepping up to the task. It shows the confidence he has in himself and in his training.

“My brother LJ has always been in my corner, it’s just taken my father’s passing for him to become the leader in my corner. He was a great basketball player and I think that’s played a big part in how he views a fight. He was a point guard, so he had to see the whole floor. He can see so much of what I need to do in order to be successful on fight night.

“My father taught me how to fight, so what I needed in a new trainer is someone who gives me an energetic boost. My brother is someone who knows how to reach me when the time comes where I need to be reached. I couldn’t find that from someone who was just getting to know me. I had to find someone who already knew me.

“When it comes to fighting, I know how to keep my emotions intact, because I’ve been doing it my whole life. It’s something I just go in there and do. I got my ass kicked in my first couple sparring sessions of this camp, or I felt like it at least, because I was coming off of 16 months off. My body had to get re-accustomed to what I had been going through my whole life previously. I used that struggle as motivation. It showed me what I had to do in order to be victorious in this fight. Now I’m the one busting other people up. I came a long way from the beginning of camp.

“Everyone knows I would love a third fight against Jermell Charlo. He’s a guy who I know I can beat. But I’m not going to take the spotlight away from Perrella. That’s the guy who’s in front of me. If I don’t take care of this first step, I don’t get the Charlo fight. Perrella is coming to win and he’s just as motivated as me.

“I’m going to go out there and look exciting. Both of us are heavy hitters and we’re both coming in with new trainers. Whoever executes their plan the best will be successful in this fight.

“The 154-pound weight class is the best division in boxing. You can match up anyone one through ten in the rankings and get a great fight every time out. What makes it the best is that we continue to fight each other time and time again. All of these fights people want are going to happen. We’re going to keep competing no matter who wins or loses.

“Ring rust is always a factor, but I think he’s going to have it too. It’ll take a couple of rounds, but I’ve been doing this so long I don’t expect it to take much more. Once I get used to it, I’m going to be comfortable. If I touch him up in round one or two, then this fight is not going to last very long.

“The king is back. I see nothing less for myself than the standard I set, which is getting the knockout. It’s either going to be a knockout, referee stoppage or Roy Jones Jr. throwing in the towel. It’s going to be electric on both sides as long as it lasts. My opponent is no pushover, but this fight is going to end with me knocking Perrella out.”

BRYANT PERRELLA

“I had an amazing training camp on a farm with the GOAT, Roy Jones Jr. I got lots of knowledge and experience, plus great sparring. It’s a huge blessing and a great opportunity to have this chance to fight and I can’t wait to showcase my skills and put on an exciting fight.

“Roy has been there and he’s done that, and he’s done it against people who everyone said he had no chance against. I know I’m the underdog, but that’s okay, because the fans don’t fight. It’s just me and Tony. It’s my hard work and preparation against his. I have 100% faith in my ability and I’m ready to put on a great show.

“Tony has a big name in this sport as a former champion. He’s been at the top of his game for a while. Me coming out and dethroning him, will put a lot of shine on myself. This is a tremendous opportunity to catapult my career.

“Not having to get to 147 pounds in camp was great. I always work hard and I might have even worked harder for this one. I was soaking up so much knowledge with Roy. I’m going to be strong, powerful and fast at this new weight. I’m going to be a full blown lion on fight night and I can’t wait to get it on.

“This win means everything for my career. Beating Tony Harrison sends me straight to the top. I’m coming for the straps. I want to be world champion so bad. I know my ability and I know what I’m capable of. This weight class is going to be perfectly suited to me. Fighting someone like Tony is so motivating.

“I’ve done everything necessary so that I can showcase my talents in this fight. I’m going to show something that I’ve never been able to show before. Even in my wins, it wasn’t fully who I am. I’m planning to go out there and look spectacular.

“I see my hand being raised at the end of this fight, however it comes. Knockout or decision. It’s going to be an exciting fight, so everyone should tune-in. Everyone sees me as an underdog, but you’re going to see I’m on this level Saturday night.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is the type of fight that I really love. This is a fight with two veterans in a crossroads clash, with the winner back in contention on the path to a world title fight.

“The late great matchmaker Teddy Brenner had three criteria for a great matchup, and one of them was if the winner would get something big from being victorious. This fight is a big yes to that question.

“Tony wants to reclaim a world championship, and he will have all he can handle in the hard-hitting and talented Perrella. The 154-pound division is stacked with talent, so I can’t wait to see who comes out on top Saturday night and takes the next steps towards a world title.”

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. PERRELLA
Harrison vs. Perrella will see former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison enter the ring to face hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella in the super welterweight main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated rising contender Omar “El Relampago” Juárez battling Elías Araujo in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event. The telecast opener will see the return of sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

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.

LOS ANGELES (April 13, 2021) – Undefeated super lightweight sensation Omar “El Relampago” Juárez will take on Argentina’s Elías “El Macho” Araujo in a 10-round showdown that serves as the FOX PBC Fight Night co-main event and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

Veteran Jessie Román was originally scheduled to face Juárez, but was forced to withdraw due to injury.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison entering the ring to face hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella. The telecast opener will see the return of sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

Preceding the FOX broadcast, a special one-hour FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes will see undefeated cruiserweight contenders Efetobor Apochi and Deon Nicholson meet in a 12-round WBA title eliminator headlining action beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

Juárez (10-0, 5 KOs) has been lauded as much for his work outside the ring as he has for what he’s accomplished in it. After graduating high school in his native Brownsville, Texas, Juárez dedicated himself to giving back to the state’s youth. Still only 21, he has spoken to close to 40,000 community members and received recognition from the Texas State Senate and the Texas House of Representatives. In the ring, Juárez was a highly decorated amateur who turned pro in September 2018. He notched four wins in 2020, including a vicious first-round TKO over Raul Chirino on December 26 that signaled his readiness for the next level.

The 33-year-old Araujo (21-2, 8 KOs) enters this fight having won three of his last four contests, including his most recent triumph in winning a unanimous decision over Javier Cabrera in December 2019. Fighting out of Santa Fe, Argentina, Araujo will fight in the U.S. for the second time as a pro after his stateside debut saw him drop a narrow split decision to Yeis Gabriel Solano in June 2019. Araujo has gone the distance in both of his losses and won his first 21 pro fights before tasting defeat.

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. PERRELLA
Harrison vs. Perrella will see former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison enter the ring to face hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella in the super welterweight main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated rising contender Omar “El Relampago” Juárez battling Elías Araujo in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event. The telecast opener will see the return of sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

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.

DETROIT (April 12, 2021) – Former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison shared updates from his first training camp since the passing of his father and trainer Ali Salaam, as he prepares to return to the ring against Bryant Perrella in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, April 17 from Los Angeles.

“We’re doing things a lot more strategically these days in order to do what’s best for my age and body,” said Harrison. “I’m not a young kid anymore, so we needed to do what’s appropriate for my age, sort of like Tom Brady and what he has to do to stay at the top of his game. I have to be smart now.

“We’ve had great sparring in this camp. I’ve been working with Chordale Booker, John Vera, Lance Smith and Kedar Jainous. They’re all youthful sparring partners, which I needed so that they could push the pace and push me. I have to think fast against those young guys, which got me in the right place mentally. I think we’ve covered everything that Perrella could bring on fight night.”

Harrison returns to the ring for the first time since his championship rematch against Jermell Charlo in December 2019 on FOX. Despite the significant layoff, Harrison is aware of the adjustments he’ll need to make returning to the ring and doesn’t believe it will deter him on fight night.

“I’m not really concerned about ring rust, but it may take a couple rounds to get acclimated and get into it,” said Harrison. “It’s a fight, this isn’t cheerleading. You just have to be able to adapt to the environment in the ring. He’s coming off a long layoff too, though. I think I actually have the edge heading into this fight.”

In the Charlo fight, Harrison was making his first title defense after winning the belt from Charlo in their first fight via a unanimous decision in December 2018. Despite losing the rematch via an 11th-round stoppage, Harrison put on a memorable performance against Charlo in a fight that was razor thin on the scorecards at the time the fight ended.

“On a positive note, I thought I did an amazing job of walking Charlo down,” said Harrison. “That performance took my mental game to a spot where now I know what I’m capable of doing. I can push anyone back if I can push Jermell back. I had fun in there and I was confident. I know I chose the right sport for me and that fight let me know how comfortable I am in there. My father did a great job bringing me up as a fighter to succeed against any style. I can make the adjustments and hold my own in any situation.

“I learned a lot from that fight. I just have to make sure I stay focused. Also, when it comes to cutting weight, I have to do it smart and the right way. But I’ve taken every precaution this time, and I’m doing everything to help my recovery during this training camp.”

For his return to the ring, Harrison will be opposed by a tricky southpaw in Perrella, who will be making his 154-pound debut on April 17 under the tutelage of a new head trainer, all-time great Roy Jones Jr.. For Harrison however, his focus is purely on his own game and what he will bring into this showdown.

“I don’t really know that much about Perrella, just that he’s a southpaw,” said Harrison. “I know that he’s gotten some knockouts. But it’s mostly about how I’m going to move and step on fight night when I’m going up against a lefty. Like anyone on this level, I expect Perrella to come in there and do his best to compete with me. He’s no tune-up fight. I’m treating this fight like I’m 0–0 and this fight is for everything.”

Since their second fight, Charlo has gone on to add the WBA and IBF titles to the WBC belt he won back from Harrison. While Harrison knows that a future third fight against Charlo is looming and could be even bigger than the first two, his focus is squarely on passing the test April 17 first.

“I’m always looking to make a statement, but I’m not rushing into it and making mistakes that’ll cost me,” said Harrison. “I definitely want to win by knockout, but you’re never going to make everybody happy. I’m just looking to go in there and do what I know how to do. Winning is the biggest thing to me. I just need to walk away with the win. I’ve got my brother L.J. with me as my new head trainer and I’m doing this for me and my team. I know great things will come from a win, however I get it.”

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

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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.

LOS ANGELES (April 9, 2021) – Undefeated cruiserweight contenders Efetobor Apochi and Deon Nicholson will meet in a 12-round WBA title eliminator headlining a special one-hour FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Center in Los Angeles.

The FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will serve as the lead-in to FOX PBC Fight Night live on FOX and headlined by former WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony Harrison against Bryant Perrella in the main event.

Super bantamweight teenage twins Chávez “The Beast” Barrientes and Ángel “AK-47” Barrientes will serve as swing bouts in separate fights.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions.

A native of Nigeria who now trains with renowned coach Ronnie Shields in Texas, Apochi (10-0, 10 KOs) has knocked out all of his opponents since turning pro in 2016. The 32-year-old added three stoppages to his tally in 2019, including an impressive knockout over tough prospect Earl Newman in May of that year. Apochi most recently delivered a third-round stoppage over Joe Jones in November 2020 on FS1.

The 30-year-old Nicholson (14-0, 13 KOs) earned a career-best victory over Earl Newman in February 2020, earning a 10-round unanimous decision. Fighting out of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Nicholson scored knockout victories in his first 12 pro fights, and most recently knocked out Juan Reyna in December 2020.

Chávez Barrientes (5-0, 4 KOs) is one half of a brother duo with a brilliant future in boxing. The 18-year-old Barrientes was born in Honolulu, Hawaii but now lives and trains in Las Vegas. He is coming off a knockout victory over Paul Carroll in his most recent fight last December.

The younger twin by 13 minutes, Ángel Barrientes (4-1, 3 KOs) had an impressive amateur career, winning 14 national tournaments and three international. The 18-year-old turned pro in November 2019, winning his first three fights before dropping a December 2020 contest to Travon Lawson.

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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.

PENSACOLA, FLA. (April 7, 2021) – Hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella detailed his current training camp, including what he’s learned from his new trainer, all-time great Roy Jones Jr., and previewed his upcoming showdown against former world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison before they square off in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

“After my last fight I went on a bit of a sparring tour,” said Perrella, detailing the origins of how he linked up with his new trainer. “I ended up sparring with some of Roy’s guys in Pensacola, and afterward he let me stay to soak up some more knowledge. The rest is history. It was an easy decision to stay out there and grow under one of the best fighters ever. It’s like going off to a university. Every day I come in with my notepad and pen ready.”

Perrella will return to the ring after suffering a disappointing defeat in his last fight in February 2020 on FOX. Perrella led on all three scorecards heading into the final round against Abel Ramos, but was stopped in the waning moments of the round. For Perrella, he’s learned from the experience, and combined with his new trainer, believes it will all end up helping him long term.

“Everything that happened with the Ramos fight has been addressed and changed,” said Perrella. “That lost sent me on the journey that led me to this new weight class and training with Roy. Everything happens for a reason, as long as you look for that reason and have faith in it. That reason has been shown to me in so many ways and it’s a huge blessing.”

After spending a majority his career fighting at 147 pounds, Perrella will fight at the super welterweight limit for the first time since his third pro fight. For the six-foot, one-inch Perrella, he believes that moving up in weight full-time will open up different aspects of his game.

“The decision to move up in weight was because of how I felt in the Ramos fight,” said Perrella. “Making 147 pounds was taking a lot out of me. I performed well, but I know how I felt in that ring. I have so much more to give as a fighter. That was really only 30% of me. Making weight was coming at a cost and I no longer thought it was helping me.

“I know these fighters at 154 are bigger and stronger, but so am I. I’m going to be stronger than ever and I’m going to be ready to tangle. I probably should have been at this weight for a while. I was always a fighter moving down in weight. I still train hard like always, but by not having to worry as much about weight, I’m able to add big layers to my game. With all these changes, I even surprise myself some days with what I can do now. I’m super confident and I can’t wait to bring it all to the ring on fight night.”

Perrella not only finds motivation from returning in a primetime main event, but from having elite opposition in the former 154-pound champion Harrison. Perrella knows that Harrison presents a versatile and difficult task, but is more than up to the challenge in front of him.

“This is a huge opportunity to fight one of the top guys at this weight,” said Perrella. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. It definitely helps motivate me to have this kind of chance on this stage against a fighter like Tony.

“Tony has different layers and dimensions to his game. He can box with his jab and length, but he can also come forward with that high guard. At this level, it’s a game of adjustments. This is going to be an interesting clash of styles. There’s no other southpaw like me. He’s sharp and has experience, but I’m a whole different kind of animal than anything he’s seen.”

With Roy Jones Jr. in his corner, Perrella believes that he has the confidence to not only come out victorious on April 17, but to make this a memorable action fight for fans watching.

“I have a unique approach and now I have Roy passing down his knowledge from his experiences,” said Perrella. “It’s like a shortcut. I’m getting the knowledge handed right to me instead of going through it not knowing what to expect. This matchup is between two strong fighters and the fans can expect an action packed fight from start to finish.”

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. PERRELLA
Harrison vs. Perrella will see former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison enter the ring to face hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella in the super welterweight main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated rising contender Omar “El Relampago” Juarez stepping up versus veteran Jessie Roman in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event. The telecast opener will see the return of sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

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.

LOS ANGELES (March 23, 2021) – Former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison will enter the ring to face hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella in the super welterweight main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated rising contender Omar “El Relampago” Juarez stepping up versus veteran Jessie Roman in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event. The telecast opener will see the return of sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

“Former world champion Tony Harrison is one of the brightest stars in the super welterweight division and will look to show that he’s ready to reclaim a world championship live in primetime on April 17,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Tony’s will and skill makes him a tough matchup for anyone at 154-pounds, but he will also have all he can handle in the very talented Bryant Perrella, who will be making his debut in the division. This exciting main event is buoyed by rising stars Omar Juarez and Vito Mielnicki Jr. competing in separate fights as part of a jam-packed night on FOX that boxing fans won’t want to miss.”

The pride of Detroit, Michigan, Harrison (28-3, 21 KOs) spent his early boxing career under the tutelage of the late Emanuel Steward in the legendary Kronk Gym. As a professional, the 31-year-old was still considered one of the most skilled fighters in the sport despite coming up short in his first two attempts at a world title. The third time was the charm for Harrison, who shocked the boxing world in December 2018 by outpointing long-time champion Jermell Charlo to earn the WBC title in Brooklyn on FOX. Their rematch one year later ranks among the best fights of 2019. Harrison and Charlo fought mano-a-mano until Charlo stopped him in the eleventh round to regain the belt.

“Due to the pandemic, we’ve lost a lot of people over the last year, including my father Ali Salaam, and I’m dedicating this fight and the rest of my career to him,” said Harrison. “My father was always there in my corner, and I’ll continue with him right by my side spiritually. But my brother L.J. is my head trainer now and we’re working hard to prepare for a tough fighter in Perrella. I’m coming off the longest layoff of my career, so I’m just excited to get back in action. The realest fighter in the game is coming back and I’m glad we’re going to be bringing this fight to everyone on free TV on FOX. This fight will be fireworks and I’ll be looking out for whenever it’s execution time. When I see the opportunity, I’ll knock his head off and put it on my mantle.”

The 31-year-old Perrella (17-3, 14 KOs) began boxing at age 15, amassing an impressive 70-9 amateur record before turning pro in 2012. Fighting out of Fort Myers, Florida, Perrella rose quickly through the pro ranks, stopping 13 of his first 14 opponents, including a second-round TKO over previously-unbeaten David Grayton in June 2016. Three months later, he suffered his first pro defeat against current welterweight world champion Yordenis Ugas. Perrella bounced back from a close loss to Luis Collazo in August 2018 with a decision victory over Breidis Prescott and a stoppage of Domonique Dolton in his 2019 campaign. In Perrella’s last bout, in February 2020, he was on the short end of a controversial, last-second knockout at the hands of Abel Ramos, in a bout where Perrella was ahead on scorecards.

“I’ve made big changes in my game and they will reflect a more proficient fighter when I step in against Tony Harrison,” said Perrella. “I don’t care about status or resume heading into this fight. I’m coming to do what I do best, and that’s dominate. I can’t wait to get in there and perform on April 17.”

Juarez (10-0, 5 KOs) has been lauded as much for his work outside the ring as he has for what he’s accomplished in it. After graduating high school in his native Brownsville, Texas, Juarez dedicated himself to giving back to the state’s youth. Still only 21, he has spoken to close to 40,000 community members and received recognition from the Texas State Senate and the Texas House of Representatives. In the ring, Juarez was a highly decorated amateur who turned pro in September 2018. He notched four wins in 2020, including a vicious first-round TKO over Raul Chirino on December 26 that signaled his readiness for the next level.

“Words can’t describe how blessed I am to be fighting on FOX once again,” said Juarez. “As always, I’m going into this fight against Jessie Roman with victory on my mind. This will be my toughest fight to date, and I know what needs to be done to come out on top. I left Brownsville to be in San Antonio with my trainer Rick Nunez and we have a great game plan in place. Training camp has already started, and I’ll be ready to go come fight night. April 17 can’t come soon enough. It’s go time!”

The 29-year-old Roman (22-4, 11 KOs) represents a significant step up in class for Juarez. A respected amateur, Roman won his first 16 pro bouts before a disputed majority decision loss to Carlos Sanchez in Sanchez’s native Mexico. He appeared headed for a potential world title shot after stopping Luis Joel Gonzalez in April 2017 and following it up with a TKO over Erick Daniel Martinez that June. However, the Garden Grove, California native was derailed by a points loss to dangerous veteran and former amateur rival Javier Molina in June 2018.

“After a setback comes a major comeback,” said Roman. “I know that because I always come back stronger than before. I can’t wait to square-off against Juarez and prove that once again, all while bringing a great fight for the fans to enjoy.”

Representing Roseland, New Jersey, Mielnicki (8-0, 5 KOs) began turning heads during an exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Outstanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves amongst many accolades before turning pro. The 18-year-old was able to add four victories to his ledger in 2020 and he kicked off his 2021 campaign with a knockout of Noe Lopez in February on FOX.

“Training is going great. I always stay ready so I don’t have to get ready,” said Mielnicki. “I’m glad that I’m getting right back in the ring so I can showcase my skills again. In my last fight, I introduced myself to the world on the biggest viewing platform of my career. I expect a tough strong Philly fighter in the ring with me on April 17 and I’m excited to return to FOX with another great performance.”

The 23-year-old Martin (6-2) first turned pro in 2017 and won his first four fights to begin his career. Fighting out of Philadelphia, Martin has won two of his last three showdowns dating back to late 2019, and his most recent outing saw him drop a decision to unbeaten prospect Xander Zayas in February.

“I am going to box smart and bring the pressure,” said Martin. “I know my opponent is a good fighter and a win over him would get me a lot of notice. I look forward to showcasing all of my skills in this fight on April 17.”

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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.

Jermell Charlo got his revenge and stopped Tony Harrison in round 11 to regain the WBC Super Welterweight title in a rematch of a fight that took place one year ago. This bout took place at The Toyota Arena in Ontario, California

Charlo dropped Harrison in round two when he connected with a left hook. That would be a foreshadow of things to come later. Harrison though got right back in the fight as he took the fight on the inside and landed some terrific body shots as well as some flush right hands. Charlo was being active, but he was looking for the home run shot throughout the contest. He was able to land some solid combination through the fight.

With the action-filled fight seemingly on the table, Charlo had a different look and thought process in round 11. In the penultimate round, Charlo landed a hard left that dropped Harrison into the ropes. Harrison was hurt and went down again after a hard flurry of power punches. Harrison was able to get up again, but it was only seconds before Harrison ate a bevy of punches that forced referee Jack Reiss to stop the fight at 2:21.

Charlo, 153.5 lbs of Houston is now 33-1 with 17 knockouts. Harrison, 153,25 lbs is now 28-3,

“I got the belt back and I didn’t leave it up to the judges,” Charlo said. “Tony is a former champion. He had a lot on the line. I dominated and I knocked him out.”

It let him know that the power was real and 2020 is going to be real,” Charlo said. “It’s going to get loud.”

“Jack is a championship referee. I started getting a little lax and got caught,” Harrison said. “He earned it. I hate it, but he earned it. The game plan was to do a little boxing. But taking a year off, my boxing wasn’t used to it. He earned it and no excuses. I got caught slipping. I never trade offense for defense. He caught me in between. I feel like I let us down. I let me down. It’s one on one. Back to the drawing board.”

Charlo said the animosity that built up before the rematch is real.
“Listen, I’m a gentleman at the end of the day. I showed my respect, but at the end of the day I don’t like the dude. He can get it again, but I’m off to bigger and better things. I’m down for making history. He held the title too long and I had to come back and get it.”

Efe Ajagba remained undefeated by stopping Iago Kiladze in five very action filled heavyweight rounds.

In round two, Ajagba sent Kiladze to the canvas with a hard right hand. In a wild round three, Ajagba landed a crushing right that wobbled Kiladze badly across the ring. Seconds later, Kiladze somehow landed a counter right to the jaw that sent Ajagba to the canvas. In round five, Ajagba landed a huge right hand that sent Kiladze in to the canvas. Kiladze was hurt and took a big combination on the ropes that forced referee Thomas Taylor stop the fight at 2:09.

Ajagba, 237.75 lbs is 12-0 with 10 knockouts. Kiladze, 230.5 lbs of Georgia Republic is 26-5-1.

“When I got knocked down, I didn’t see the punch coming. I tried to hit him with the left hook and that’s when I got caught,” Ajagba said. “He has a lot of experience and he’s a good fighter. This kind of fight will help me perform better in the future. This guy was a good fighter and he can take a lot of shots. I missed a lot of shots. Ronnie Shields, my trainer, kept telling me to work behind the jab and come back with the hook. It’s something that I have to learn to do. I made some mistakes, but I will go back to the gym and work on it. I’ll do better next time.”

Rene Tellez Giron shocked 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas via 6th round knockout in their scheduled eight-round lightweight bout.

At the end of round three, Giron landed a crushing left that sent Balderas to the canvas. Balderas barely beat the count, and stumbled back to the corner, yet referee Ray Corona let the fight continue.

At the end of round six, Giron landed another left hook to the head that put Balderas in his back. He barely did not beat Corona’s count at 2:59.

Giron, 132 lbs of Mexico is 14-1 with eight knockouts. Balderas suffers his 1st defeat and is now 9-1.

“After I knocked him down in the third round, I saw his eyes were rolled back like he was hurt, but he has the heart of a lion,” Giron said. “He didn’t want to lose his undefeated record in front of his people. When he got up, I was like, ‘Wow! He got up! He’s up!’ So, I kept on him and left everything in the ring. I’m really happy. Karlos had said he fought with the best and he was an Olympian. Well, I fought a lot of people too and you see the result.”

Hugo Centeno Jr. and Juan Macias Montiel fought to a 10-round draw in a middleweight fight.

In round two, Montiel buckled Centeno with a left hand.

In round eight, Montiel was cut over the right eye.

The scores read 97-93 for Centeno; 96-94 for Montiel and 95-95.

Centeno, 163.4 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 27-3-1. Montiel, 162.4 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 21-4-1.

“I don’t agree with the decision at all. I thought I out-boxed the guy. He landed a couple shots, but I don’t think it was enough to get a draw or win on any of the cards,” Centeno said. “To be fair, I’d give him like three rounds. I know I didn’t win all the rounds, but I know I won enough to win the fight. If I can, I’m going to appeal the decision because I thought it was (the wrong) decision. This is the thing that drives away fighters from boxing is scores like this.”

“I took the fight to him and he was just boxing. I’d like a rematch and I’d like him to fight and not run,” Montiel said. “I was inactive for a year and I gave him three pounds and he still didn’t bring it. In reality I brought it to him. Next time, I want him to stand and fight.”

Oscar Escandon stopped previously undefeated Jhack Tepora in the 1st round of their scheduled 10-round featherweight bout.

Escandon landed a perfect right hook to the body that sent Tepora down for then 10 count at 1:30.

Escandon, 127 lbs of Colombia is 27-5 with 18 knockouts. Tepora, 126.4 lbs of Cebu City, PHL is 23-1

“This fight was very important to me because I know I needed to win if I wanted to continue forward with my career,” Escandon said. “I know I have a lot of fight left in me. I just want to thank my team. Ruben Guerrero, my trainer, was on me about listening to him in the corner and all his instructions worked perfect. I want to thank the PBC and Bob Santos for always believing in me. I give all the glory to God for this victory.”

Raymond Guajardo took out Donnis Reed in round one of their scheduled four round super welterweight bout.

Guajardo landed a booming right hook that sent Reed down face-first and the fight was over at 1:40.

Guajardo, 157 lbs of San Antonio is 5-0 with three knockouts. Reed, 154.6 lbs of New Orleans is 3-5.

“I’m always looking to get my opponents out, so that was the first thing I wanted to do,” Guajardo said. “I think I had landed a hook before that and I saw I had hurt him, so that’s when I went in for the kill. Everything happened naturally after that.”

Petr Khamukov remained undefeated by stopping Maceo Crowder after round two of their scheduled six-round middleweight bout.

In round one, Khamukov dropped Crowder with a right over the top. Crowder bowed out of the fight after the 2nd round citing an eye injury.

Khamukov, 160.2 lbs of Russia is 5-0 with two knockouts. Crowder, 160.4 lbs of Roxbury, MA is 2-4.

LOS ANGELES – Today, FOX Sports announces Unified Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. will have an interview during the broadcast of FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT: TONY HARRISON VS. JERMELL CHARLO II live on FOX Saturday, Dec. 21 (8:00 PM ET). This will mark the first interview that Spence Jr. has made since his horrific car accident that took place on October 10, 2019.

Spence Jr. (26-0, 21 KOs) unified the IBF and WBC Welterweight World Titles against two-time champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter (30-3-1,17 KOs) in an action-packed fight of the year candidate at the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Tomorrow’s FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT features the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo. Boxing begins with the two-hour FS1 PBC FIGHT NIGHT at 6:00 PM ET, headlined by top middleweight contender Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr. facing Mexico’s Juan Macías Montiel in a 10-round clash.

Below is programming information, the week’s on-air broadcaster roster and fight card lineup:

FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT: TONY HARRISON VS. JERMELL CHARLO II
Date: Saturday, Dec. 21
Network/Time: FOX, 8:00 PM ET
Fight Announcers: Brian Kenny, analysts Lennox Lewis and Joe Goossen
Bouts:
Tony Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) vs. Jermell Charlo (32-1, 16 KOs) – 12 Rounds, WBC World Super Welterweight Championship
Efe Ajagba (11-0, 9 KOs) vs. Iago Kiladze (26-4-1, 18 KOs) – 10 Rounds, Heavyweight
Karlos Balderas (9-0, 8 KOs) vs. René Téllez Giron (13-1, 7 KOs) – 8 Rounds, Lightweight

For more information, visit FOX Sports Press Pass.

–FOX SPORTS–

About FOX Sports
FOX Sports is the umbrella entity representing Fox Corporation’s wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, the business has ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing relationships. FOX Sports includes the sports arm of the FOX Network as well as FS1, FS2, FOX Soccer Plus and FOX Deportes. FOX Sports’ digital properties include FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App, which provides live streaming video of FOX Sports content, instant scores, stats and alerts to iOS and Android devices. Additionally, FOX Sports and social broadcasting platform, Caffeine, jointly own Caffeine Studios which creates exclusive eSports, sports and live entertainment content. Also included in FOX Sports’ portfolio are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports Radio Network.

ONTARIO, Calif. (December 19, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo continued their war of words Thursday at the final press conference before they rematch this Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

The press conference also featured heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba and Georgia’s Iago Kiladze, who meet in the 10-round co-feature, plus 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas and Mexico’s Rene Tellez Giron, who battle in an eight-round lightweight fight that opens the broadcast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Toyota Arena:

TONY HARRISON

“I’m hungrier now because of the layoff since the first fight. It hasn’t affected my mindset for one moment. Sparring has been intense for me. That’s where I got the rust off. I was pushed every day with guys trying to knock me out, just like he’s going to try to do.

“Nothing about me is fake. Everything I say, I do it. It comes from my heart. The beef between us is real when it comes to my eyes. I don’t like anything about him. The tables turned after what he did right after the first fight. I’m a humble beast and he woke me up.

“I trained in Florida because I needed to be hungry again. I made the changes for me. I was out a year and I had to get mentally correct. He woke me up. I didn’t need to be in Detroit, they know I’m the champ. Now I’m ready to beat you again on Saturday.

“I had three judges who said I won, so I don’t think I have to change anything in my game plan. I’m happy. I don’t care about what him and his team is telling him. I don’t have to do anything different.

“He had 12 rounds and never rocked me, never stumbled me. He gave me everything he has. The same Jermell that you have seen in every fight is the same you’ll see Saturday.

“We’re here once again and once again I’m going to exactly what I have to do. This is what needs to be done to him. I love everything about this. I love everything about the talking, the back and forth, and all the noise.

“Jermell knocked out Jorge Cota, so he’s back on top right? I’m going to humble him again, that’s my job. I’m going to ease him of his pain. He acts like he’s the strongest guy in the world, but he’s up against an animal.

“I just have to be myself and win again. He can’t handle someone who’s himself. I’m rattling him every five seconds. I just have to throw the 1-2 off of that and we’re good.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“He talks a lot but he has to see me Saturday night. You’re going to get the same thing I gave to Jorge Cota. He just gave me more time getting out of the fight in June. I’m much stronger, much better and much faster now.

“I’m a fighter who lives and learns. I know how to progress. It’s okay for me, because I understand how to go down and come back up. When I come back, I come back way harder. They made the true champ come out of me.

“They know he’s not on my level. They know what I possess and what I do. Him not liking me has nothing to do with what I’m going to do Saturday.

“Nothing he’s said has gotten under my skin. It’s unbelievable to think that you could get inside another man’s head who gets in the ring and puts it all on the line for this.

“He will get what he deserves. I’m a man of my word and everyone knows what I do. I’m ‘Mr. Keep Running Your Mouth.’ This is what I do.

“I want to knock him out and I’m going to knock him out. I’m going to set up the right shots. I’m going to set up what he’s not going to see. I’m going to show you how to take the belt.

“All I know is that I’m ready to fight. He’s all hype. The only thing fake about him is that injury he put up to get out of the rematch, but we’re here now so its whatever. I’m going to crush him.”

EFE AJAGBA

“I know he has experience and he’s lost to a few good fighters. I’m going to stick to my game plan and I look forward to showing it to everyone on Saturday night

“I have to test him with my jab and see how he reacts. He has movement and has good experience. I’m going to let him get tired and find my spots. I can’t wait to get in there.

“We worked really hard in training camp and I know that I’m getting better every day. This is a good test for me and a good opponent who will make me use what we’ve worked on in training.”

IAGO KILADZE

“I know that’s he’s a strong young fighter, but he doesn’t have experience like me. I have more fights and more tough fights. I think that he’s going to try to come forward, but I’ve worked really hard to stop him.

“I’ve worked on my power and I will show it on Saturday night. I believe in myself and I’m going to show everything I’ve worked on in training camp.

“We’re going to take what we’ve been working on in training and bring it into the fight. We know what he’s uncomfortable with and we’re going to take advantage of it.”

KARLOS BALDERAS

“I’m an Olympian for a reason. I’ve faced the best since I was 15. This is a great opportunity for me and I’m going to make the most of it. He knows what’s coming Saturday night.

“I’ve been here before and I’m ready to make a splash. 2020 is my year to shine. I’m ready or the big names. I know what I’m here to do.

“He’s a rugged fighter who comes forward and brings the fight. I’m too experienced for him though. In the end, my talent is going to speak for itself. We can say what we want up here, but my talent will speak for itself.”

RENE TELLEZ GIRON

“The only loss I had was a fight I believe I won, but you always learn from a fight. Balderas is a good fighter and I respect him, but he’s in for a war.

“I’ve been in tough fights everywhere so I know what it will be like Saturday. He’s quick in the ring and I’ve watched video on him, but it’s nothing that I won’t be able to overcome.

“I know what he can do and I know that I have everything I need to get this victory. I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity and I know that we’re going to steal the show Saturday.”

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO II
Harrison vs. Charlo II will see the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo headlining the FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis fighting for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title and rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

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.

ONTARIO, Calif. (December 17, 2019) – A jam-packed lineup of undercard attractions will give fans excitement from beginning to end on Saturday, December 21 as part of the Premier Boxing Champions event headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo all from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

The Harrison vs. Charlo rematch serves as the main event of FOX PBC Fight night beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Preceding the fights on FOX, FS1 PBC Fight Night will feature a tripleheader of action beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and headlined by top middleweight contender Hugo Centeno Jr. battling Juan Macías Montiel.

Non-televised undercard attractions will feature Andre Dirrell in a 10-round super middleweight bout against the Dominican Republic’s Juan Ubaldo Cabrera and2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis in a welterweight fight against the Dominican Republic’s Julio César Sanchez.

The action will also see Detroit prospect Anthony Flagg (4-0, 3 KOs) battling Tyler, Texas-native Jamarcus Warren (2-1-1, 1 KO) in a six-round super middleweight affair, Dallas heavyweight Adrian Taylor (10-1, 4 KOs) in a six-round fight against Tijuana, Mexico’s German Pérez (11-6-3, 3 KOs) and Russian prospect Petr Khamukov (4-0, 1 KO) taking on Massachusetts native Maceo Crowder (2-3, 1 KO) in a six-round middleweight bout. Bantamweight José Balderas (8-0, 2 KOs), the brother of Karlos Balderas, will battle in a six round match.

Rounding out the lineup is undefeated super lightweight prospect Justin Cardona in a four-round fight against Liberia’s Archie Weah, Glendale, California’s Yovani Rodarte battling Mexico’s Eduardo Reyes in a six-round lightweight affair and unbeaten Oak Hills, California native Jerry Pérez in a six-round featherweight affair against New Jersey’s Tyrone Luckey.

An accomplished veteran contender in the 168-pound division, Dirrell (33-2-1, 24 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since March 2018, when he lost his interim super middleweight title in a slugfest against Jose Uzcategui. The Flint, Michigan native and brother of two-time champion Anthony, Dirrell won a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics and lost narrow decisions in world title fights against Carl Froch and James DeGale. He will be opposed by Cabrera (24-2, 16 KOs), who fights out of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and was unbeaten in his first 24 pro fights.

A native of Lithuania who now live and trains in the U.S., Stanionis (9-0, 6 KOs) is one of the most promising fighters to come out of the 2016 Olympic games. The 25-year-old has picked up two victories so far this year and will look to close out the year against the 26-year-old Sanchez(11-2, 6 KOs), who was born in the Dominican Republic but now fights out of New York.

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO II
Harrison vs. Charlo II will see the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo headlining the FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California with televised coverage beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

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.

ONTARIO, Calf. (December 11, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo continued their heated war of words while previewing their highly anticipated rematch on “PBC FACE TO FACE” this past Saturday on FOX. The title showdown headlines FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Catch the next airings of this episode Thursday, December 12 at 11 p.m. ET and Saturday, December 14 at 5:30 p.m. ET on FS1 and Friday, December 13 at 9:30 a.m. ET and 1:00 p.m. ET on FS2.

With their rematch set to take place almost one year after their first battle, Harrison and Charlo have kept up the animosity that has boiled ever since their controversial first meeting.

“There’s not a drop of love in my heart for him,” said Harrison “There’s a lot of animosity and there’s only one way to settle it. That’s fighting. I’m the most dangerous guy in the division. I’m 6’1, super-fast, strong and I have all the attributes of a guy no one wants to fight.”

“He’s a fraud,” said Charlo. “He manipulated the system and he isn’t the real champ like I am. I’m the real champion and it will take me going in there and showing why I am the champ. I get to do that on December 21.”

The rematch was originally set to take place in June, before Harrison was forced to withdraw from the fight due to an ankle injury. Charlo went on to knockout Jorge Cota in the main event on FOX June 23. The rematch that didn’t happen has been its’ own saga and only added to the rivalry.

“He wasn’t really injured, we’re all boxers and we all go through things,” said Charlo. “It’s a wear and tear sport. It puts a lot on our mind and on our bodies. If you don’t do it the right way, it’s going to tear you down. Maybe he used the smallest excuse and used it to get him out of the fight. There’s no easy routes in this thing. When you’re at the top, you have to fight.”

“For me, everything happens for a reason,” said Harrison. “Whatever the reason was, I just answered back and said I’ll do better and make the turnaround from it. I never questioned it. I knew my heart wanted to go and keep fighting. It told me to go beat him, because he’s not what he says he is. But my brother and my dad told me that if you’re not 100 percent, no one will want to hear the excuses If you let him beat you.”

Having already squared off at four press conference and multiple “FACE TO FACE” tapings, Harrison and Charlo have had plenty of opportunities for mental battles in anticipation of their encounters in the ring.

“This is going to be easy because I’m already in his head,” said Harrison. “I think he’s trying to figure out what he has to do different to beat me. I’ve got the mental battle won. I have him all riled up, now it’s just about capitalizing.

“I’m living rent free in that head,” added Harrison. “He’s mentally weak. Period. He’s emotional. He fears me and he fears everything about me. He knows I’m a threat. He likes the way I walk. He likes everything about me. He likes the way I talk what I talk.”

“This energy he’s portraying isn’t really him,” said Charlo. “I know something about you. They made you up to be this clown. You have a different animal in front of you now. This won’t be the same Jermell Charlo on December 21. The good thing is, I get a chance to show you and everyone that night.

“I’m a passionate person,” continued Charlo. “I’m a winner. When they took that one from me, of course a passionate person is going to have a different reaction than he would have had. I found out where your heart was. I’ve been able to make more investment into myself to destroy you ever since then.”

With their high-stakes rematch just around the corner, Harrison and Charlo gave their final thoughts on how the second fight will look, and how they will put themselves in position for a career-defining victory.

‘I don’t like ‘phony’ Harrison,” said Charlo. “It’s easy to explain why the rematch will be different. I’m knocking him out. I can’t let them judges make any decisions. That’s what I need. He’s going to sleep. Cold.”

“I’m a better athlete than Jermell Charlo and I will beat this man at anything we do,” said Harrison. “I know in my heart I would never lose to a sucker and he’s a sucker. As long as he’s walking this earth, there’s nothing he can do to beat me. I’m going to dominate this man. I just want to beat him 12 rounds like he stole something.”

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO II
Harrison vs. Charlo II will see the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo headlining the FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis fighting for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title and rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

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.

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 14, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo continued their verbal sparring and nearly came to blows at a heated press conference in Los Angeles on Thursday, as they previewed their rematch taking place Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis fighting for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title and rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

Harrison vs. Charlo II has been building ever since the end of the first matchup on December 22, 2018. The two were set to meet on June 23, but the rematch was postponed when Harrison suffered torn ligaments after spraining his ankle in training.

Now that he is fully healed, Harrison is ready to cement his hold on the title while Charlo is ready to take back what he believes belongs to him. The rematch comes just one day short of a full year from the first time the two stepped into ring against each other on FOX.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:

TONY HARRISON

“Every time I see Jermell I just feel like he’s pretending. He’s convinced everyone he’s the toughest guy in the world. He gets up here and barks and makes excuses. I beat you the first time and I’m here again.

“If I was scared, I wouldn’t be here right now. I didn’t take any fight in between. I haven’t fought for a year, but I wanted to be put right back in it.

“I could beat him anywhere, it doesn’t matter. We could fight in this room right now. Nothing is going to change.

“There’s no respect. I’m going to show him each and every time. I’m not the one to play with. This isn’t Jorge Cota. You have somebody from Detroit. Whatever you want to do, we’re ready to do it at any given moment.

“His words definitely sparked the fuel in me that’s on fire now. He talks loud, but he’s not going to do anything. He doesn’t have the skill set to beat me.

“When he fought against Jorge Cota, he was the exact same fighter he was against me. There was nothing different. A leopard doesn’t change his spots. He’s going to hunt the same.

“When I say it’s all on the line, it’s really all on the line. I’ve never had a fight that’s been this important. There’s nothing else that matters. This right here can change my life.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“December 21 is my day. December 22 was the day they made a decision to give Tony a victory. I could have fought for my belt already but you saw what I did to Cota on June 23 and you saw what I was going to get ready to do to you.

“The judges that gave him the first fight woke me up. It’s motivating me. I’m past all the talking. I don’t need to talk trash about him.

“Nothing’s going to make me slow down. I’m going to move forward and I did. I went on and fought and showed everyone what I do. You see why I’m that guy.

“I have to prove a point. He has to prove a point. Let it be what it is. I have no problem with that. All of the talking doesn’t matter. He’s going to have to live up to his word and I’m going to live up to mine.

“It would be great to get a knockout, but we’re down to go 12. I’ll go to 15. It doesn’t matter. He can’t stand up to me in there and hurt me. He’s running scared. I’m for real about this. It’s about our hearts.

“I know that I won that first fight and I’m going to do things in a more dominant fashion this time. I’m going to be overpowering and ferocious. It will be the best Jermell Charlo. My plan is to show everyone that Tony Harrison is not on my level.

“The loss taught me to be more patient. It’s serving as a great motivator. I feel I’m the best in the division and it’s my job to show everyone why I’m a threat to everyone at 154-pounds.”

ALI SALAAM, Harrison’s Father & Trainer

“We’re thankful to everyone who made this fight happen and we appreciate Jermell and Derrick for giving us the opportunity to fight for the title the first time, and now we have the chance to solidify ourselves in the rematch.

“Tony and I are here to solidify ourselves as world champions. We deserve to be here and we’ve had an outstanding camp. It’s been excellent work with excellent sparring. We look forward to December 21 and showing the world we deserve this.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“I’m very happy to be here. It’s our third time doing this so hopefully third time is the charm. We’re going to be very prepared for this fight. This is what Jermell has been waiting on since December 23 last year. It’s the opportunity to get his title back.

“We know that Tony is here to defend his title but it’s our job to take it. We’re having great sparring and getting in the work so that we’re prepared for this fight. We’re looking forward to it.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“December 21 is really a tremendous fight between two elite fighters. Tony earned a victory during the first fight, but I know that Jermell is even more motivated for the rematch.

“We know that the fight was originally scheduled for June 23, until Tony suffered his injury. Jermell fought that night and drilled Jorge Cota in spectacular fashion. When we had the press conference to announce that fight, these fighters really did a lot of talking, but now I know they’re sick of talking. Now it’s time to fight.

“The Southern California fight fans are going to get another great fight here at the end of the year in Ontario. The 154-pound division is one of the hottest in boxing but first it’s time to settle this rivalry. This is a fight that promises nothing but fireworks.”

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 14, 2019) – Former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis will battle for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night co-main event and on FOX Deportes live in primetime from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction. The event is is headlined by the highly anticipated WBC Super Welterweight Title rematch between Tony “Superbad” Harrison and Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

“With two world title fights and one of boxing’s most exciting prospects entering the ring, Saturday, December 21 is going to be a night of action that fans in Southern California won’t want to miss,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “In addition to the main event, one of boxing’s most skilled fighters, Guillermo Rigondeaux, will look to become a two-division world champion against a battle tested former champion in Liborio Solis. Plus, hard-hitting phenom Efe Ajagba hopes to pass another test with flying colors against Iago Kiladze to round out a tremendous lineup on FOX and FOX Deportes.”

Rigondeaux (19-1, 13 KOs) will look to move down and capture a title in a second weight class while showing off the masterful technical skills that made him a unified 122-pound world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. Most recently, Rigondeaux scored an exciting eighth-round stoppage of former champion Julio Ceja in June on FOX.

Born in Venezuela and fighting out of Panama, Solis (30-5-1, 14 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on December 21 while riding a five-fight winning streak. Solis captured a super flyweight world title in 2013 amidst a 14-bout unbeaten run. He has lost by decision in his two previous attempts at 118-pound title, including a controversial loss to Jamie McDonnell, which he has bounced back from on his current win streak.

Nigeria’s Ajagba (11-0, 9 KOs) most recently passed the toughest test of his professional career when he defeated fellow 2016 Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen by 10-round unanimous decision in July. The 25-year-old Ajagba gained widespread notoriety in August 2018 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. Ajagba won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. Living in Stafford, Texas and training with Ronnie Shields, Ajagba has steadily increased his competition and added knockouts wins over Amir Mansour and Michael Wallisch this year.

The 33-year-old Kiladze (26-4-1, 18 KOs) broke a three-fight losing streak by fighting to a split draw in May against undefeated heavyweight Robert Alfonso. Kiladze’s losses had come against top heavyweight Adam Kownacki, Michael Hunter and Joe Joyce, who own a combined 34-1 record. Originally from Georgia and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Kiladze won six straight fights between 2014 and 2018.

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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.

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 5, 2019) – The highly anticipated WBC Super Welterweight Title rematch between Tony “Superbad” Harrison and Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo will headline live in primetime in FOX PBC Fight Night Action and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Harrison vs. Charlo II is a high-voltage rematch that has been building ever since the end of the first matchup. The two were set to meet in June, but the rematch was postponed when Harrison suffered torn ligaments after spraining his ankle in training.

Now that he is fully healed, Harrison is ready to solidify his hold on the title while Charlo is ready to take back what he believes belongs to him. The rematch comes just one day short of a full year from the first time the two stepped into ring against each other on FOX.

“After a dramatic and razor thin first fight, Tony Harrison and Jermell Charlo are sure to be at their best on December 21 when they settle their rivalry in a can’t miss rematch,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is the kind of high stakes 50-50 fight that belongs in primetime on FOX and I know that the Southern California boxing fans watching in Ontario will love everything that these two champions bring to the ring.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

In the first meeting, Harrison deployed a tactical defensive strategy that blunted much of the force of Charlo’s high-powered offense. The intrigue of the rematch is whether Harrison will be able to use a similar strategy to remain champion or will Charlo be able to impose his will on Harrison and regain the title.

The 29-year-old Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) entered the first match against Charlo having come up short in his previous world title attempt. He lost to Jarrett Hurd in a bid for the IBF title in 2017. Harrison, a protégé of the late Emanuel Steward and a native of Detroit, bounced back with three strong performances, including a decision victory over former world champion Ishe Smith.

“The delay just made me even hungrier heading into this fight,” said Harrison. “Watching Charlo the night we were supposed to go shine, and rejuvenate himself, it built up so much hunger in me. I’m tired of the talk and the noise. I’m ready to go.

“We’re looking to work smarter this time,” added Harrison. “I think everything I did before worked, but we want to make it even more decisive. The plan is to be more technically sound overall. You may see an early knockout. It’s tense between both parties. I’m pretty sure he wants to knock me out as much as I want to knock him out. Whoever has the best plan will win. But I’m by far the better athlete. Athlete for athlete it’s not even close. I’ll beat him in everything, running, basketball, football. My style is perfect for his style. He’s Shane Mosley to my Vernon Forrest. I’ll beat him every time I face him.”

It was an emotional night for Charlo (32-1, 16 KOs) the first time he fought Harrison. He and his twin brother, Jermall, the WBC Middleweight World Champion, were defending their titles on a FOX PBC Fight Night doubleheader at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Jermell and many ringside observers thought he had done enough to beat Harrison, but the judges saw it differently, handing Harrison a unanimous decision victory and setting up a hotly contested rematch.

A 29-year-old native of Houston, Texas, Charlo, won the title with a knockout victory over John Jackson in 2016. He went on to establish himself as one of the best young finishers in the sport with devastating stoppage victories over Charles Hatley and Erickson Lubin in defense of the title. He scored a majority decision over former world champion Austin Trout before taking on Harrison and most recently scored a knockout victory over Jorge Cota on FOX in June.

“I still feel strongly that I won that first fight and I’m going to do things in a more dominant fashion this time,” said Charlo. “I’m coming in to this fight being the overpowering, strong, ferocious Jermell Charlo. Tony Harrison is not on my level. It’s my job on December 21 to prove that and to prove my worth. I’m coming in there mentally focused. When I fought Jorge Cota, that’s a prelim of what’s to be expected from me in the future.

“I want to look for the knockout and set it up,” continued Charlo. “I don’t want it to go the judges. That’s my worst nightmare. If it does go 12 rounds, he’s going to be very injured at the end. The loss taught me how to be more patient and to take things step-by-step. I’m going to show everyone why Jermell Charlo is a threat to the whole 154-pound division. I personally feel I’m the best in the division. I’m an upgraded Jermell Charlo that you’ll see on December 21.”

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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.

LAS VEGAS (June 3, 2019) – Super welterweight world champion Tony Harrison injured his ankle in training last week and has withdrawn from his title defense against former world champion Jermell Charlo that was scheduled to headline FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

Harrison has an inner and outer ankle sprain with torn ligaments in his right ankle and he will be out for 10 weeks before he can resume training. Harrison and Charlo plan to have their rematch later this year.

Stepping in to replace Harrison for a 12-round fight is the always dangerous Jorge Cota (28-3, 25 KOs), who most recently lost a disputed split-decision in April on FS1 against Jeison Rosario. The 31-year old from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico had scored three straight knockout victories before the defeat in April.

“Watching my Mexican brother Andy Ruiz fight last weekend, I am very motivated,” said Cota. “I saw how he got an unexpected chance to become a champion and surprise the world. He has inspired me to win this fight in the same way. I will shock the world on June 23 just like Andy did on Saturday, for Mexico, the country that I love. This is the most important fight of my career.”

“As we have seen from Andy Ruiz’s incredible upset of Anthony Joshua in the heavyweight championship fight on Saturday night, replacement fighters are not to be taken as a joke,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jorge Cota is a dangerous fighter. He has heavy hands and he’s looking for an opportunity to make a statement. Jermell Charlo realizes just how serious this is and he wants to get his title back. I know he’s going to be prepared to make his own statement.”

The 29-year-old Charlo will now have to wait for his opportunity to avenge the only loss of his career and regain his title against Harrison. Fighting out of Houston, Texas, Charlo won the vacant WBC title with a devastating knockout victory over John Jackson in 2016. He made three successful defenses of the title with highlight-reel knockouts over Charles Hatley and Erickson Lubin, plus a majority decision win over former champion Austin Trout.

“It feels like a heartbreak,” said Charlo. “I was ready to destroy Tony Harrison and now I’m going to get in there and destroy Cota. I always pray for my opponent to have safe care and make it to the fight healthy. It’s unfortunate that Tony Harrison isn’t my next victim. I want the best Harrison so I want him healed up and ready to go, because that will only bring out the best in me.

“I feel my title was taken from me and being held hostage and I want it back. I will go through anything to get it back. The moment he’s cleared to fight I want the match and I will get my title back. I’m going in June 23 for a dominant victory with a ferocious attitude and a mindset to destroy, because I know I can’t leave it to the judges anymore.”

Harrison’s injury is the latest twist in the super welterweight division that started last December when Harrison and Charlo’s first encounter took place live on FOX. Harrison won the decision to upset Charlo and take away the title. The close nature of the bout helped warrant an immediate rematch that promises to be just as highly charged and dramatic. Julian “J-Rock” Williams scored a hard-fought unanimous decision over Jarrett Hurd as the IBF and WBA titles changed hands as well in May.

This setback for Harrison, who is from Detroit and was trained early in his career by the late Emanuel Steward, is another challenge for the 28-year-old champion. Harrison was on track for a title shot before suffering the first loss of his career in 2015 to Willie Nelson. After three-straight wins, he earned a shot at the vacant 154-pound title against Jarrett Hurd. Although Harrison had strong moments in the fight, he eventually lost to Hurd and was forced to again climb to the top. After another three victories, including a win over former champion Ishe Smith, Harrison took advantage of his second world title opportunity against Charlo.

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

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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, @MayweatherPromo, @MandalayBay and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

LOS ANGELES (May 8, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo exchanged words at a heated Los Angeles press conference Wednesday ahead of their world championship rematch that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).

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

Harrison and Charlo’s first encounter took place live on FOX in December as Harrison earned the decision and upset Charlo to earn the title. The close nature of the bout helped warrant an immediate rematch that promises to be just as highly charged and dramatic as before.

The drama from their first bout poured over into Wednesday’s press conference, as the fighters went forehead to forehead while facing off for media, neither looking to cede any ground in the build up to their rematch. Here is what the press conference participants had to say from The Conga Room in L.A. Live:

TONY HARRISON

“I’ve never been this motivated in my life to win a fight like how I am right now. At the end of the day, if my career would end, I would be cool stopping after this win.

“This fight is personal for me. What I’ve been through has made me into who I am. I’m not a pretender. When I come out here and put my life out on the line and you put your life out on the line, respect me as a man. I’m going to earn it again on June 23.

“Not everybody gets a chance to redeem their losses. But the fact that I took this should show how confident I am in beating Jermell again. I don’t need anyone to co-sign me because I’m confident in what I can do as a man and as a fighter.

“He’s really sparked me and got me motivated for this fight. The worst thing you can do is spark a guy from Detroit. He’s not the only one with a chip on his shoulder.

“Fighting is the toughest sport in the world. You have to sacrifice so much for it. You’ll go crazy if you don’t take time to do something else that you love to do. So that’s why every day I take time to do something that I love to do to take my mind off the physical strain and mental focus I put myself through.

“Growing up, I had a lot of guys I looked up to. If I didn’t have those guys to look up to, who motivated me and who believed in me and my talents, then I wouldn’t have been pushed into being something. It’s not about money. I’ll do it for free because I love the grind and the sacrifice.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“I’m coming to this rematch with a whole different mindset and a much better game plan. I took this loss like a wake up call and reminded myself why I’ve been doing this for all these years.

“I have respect for Tony and his father, but I think he knows that he didn’t do enough to win that fight. It was a robbery, but that just means I have the opportunity for redemption.

“I feel like I’m the people’s champ for fans all around the world. My popularity is still growing despite the robbery. I’m going to step into the ring and channel everything into a great performance.

“I want to start fast, but not necessarily faster than last time. He might come out and charge me and I’ll have to be on my counters. I’ll be ready to knock him out that way too.

“Overcoming the loss was easier than I thought. I enjoyed my little time off. I went back and learned some different things. I’m going to do some things way better on June 23.

“Tony knows exactly what happened in our fight. He knows he can’t beat me. I’m here to prove it again and leave no doubt.

“I’m dominating this fight. If he does make it to the 12th round, he’s going to be bruised and beat down.

“I’m leaving it all in the ring in this fight. I’ve got no distractions and everything is smooth heading into this one. I’m giving 110 percent. It’s going to be ruthless.”

ALI SALAAM, Harrison’s Father & Trainer

“We just want to defend our title and show the world that this was not an accident what happened in December.

“I believe that Tony is the best fighter in the division and on June 23, we’re going to prove it to the world again.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“These guys are both great champions and we believe that this is a perfect situation for us to come back and reclaim our title.

“This is all business for us. I want to see Jermell get the title back. Tony and his team are great people, but at the same time, I know what I want and what Jermell deserves to have.

“Jermell is going to be WBC Super Welterweight World Champion again. That’s what we want and that’s what we’re going to go out and get.”

BRITTANY GOOSSEN BROWN, VP of TGB Promotions

“We’re excited to be promoting this fight alongside Lions Only Promotions and Mayweather Promotions. The first fight closed out 2018 with a bang and we can’t wait to see what happens on June 23 at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“This fight right here, I guarantee you, will be nothing but fireworks. The last fight was a fight that many thought was very, very close. But the beauty of this, come June 23, is that we get to see these guys do it all over again.

“In Tony’s case, coming in as the current champion, he knows he has got to be even better than he was the first time around to hold on to his title. He worked too hard and too long his entire life. He has the whole city of Detroit on his back and he is coming to defend what’s his.

“In Jermell’s case, he knows that it was a highly disputed loss and his mindset has been thinking of nothing else but Tony Harrison, day in and day out. I can imagine now and when he walks into that ring, he is going to be thinking about payback.

“What I love about both of these guys is that they do so much for their respective communities. They do a lot for kids and don’t want to let anyone or themselves down. This fight right here will be highly competitive and come June 23, the best man will come out on top.”
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ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO 2
Harrison vs. Charlo 2 will see WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison take on former world champion Jermell Charlo in a highly anticipated rematch that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux taking on exciting Mexican contender Julio Ceja in a WBC Super Bantamweight world title eliminator.

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

LAS VEGAS (May 2, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former super welterweight champion Jermell Charlo will step into the ring for a highly anticipated rematch live in primetime Sunday, June 23 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux taking on exciting Mexican contender Julio Ceja in a WBC Super Bantamweight world title eliminator.

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

Harrison and Charlo’s first encounter took place live on FOX in December as Harrison earned the decision and upset Charlo to earn the title. The close nature of the bout helped warrant an immediate rematch that promises to be just as highly charged and dramatic.

“Tony Harrison and Jermell Charlo showed off their elite talent to the world in their first bout and I anticipate an even more explosive showdown in the rematch on June 23,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Harrison will no doubt be at his very best again as he looks to establish himself in the championship ranks. Jermell Charlo is certainly more motivated than ever to reclaim his spot atop the 154-pound division. Fans tuning in on FOX and FOX Deportes in primetime and in attendance at Mandalay Bay Events Center are in for an action-packed Sunday night.”

Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) has proven to be “Detroit tough” during a boxing career inspired by early years trained and managed by the late Emanuel Steward. He had to climb back into title contention twice before reaching the top with his unanimous decision victory over Charlo last December.

Harrison was on track for a title shot before suffering the first loss of his career in 2015 to Willie Nelson. After three-straight wins, he earned a shot at the vacant 154-pound title against Jarrett Hurd. Although Harrison had strong moments in the fight, he eventually lost to Hurd and was forced to again climb to the top. After another three victories, including a win over former champion Ishe Smith, Harrison took advantage of his second world title opportunity against Charlo.

“Being a world champion now, I’m excited to defend my title for the first time in this rematch that everyone is looking forward to,” said Harrison. “I think there’s actually more pressure on Charlo, just like last time. It’s just a blessing for me to be fighting on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23. Everyone is going to be tuned-in to this fight and we’re going to bring the action to Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, the capital of the boxing world. I plan on doing the exact same thing to Jermell that I did in December. I’m going to get the win, and then I don’t want to hear any more crying or excuses.”

The 28-year-old Charlo (31-1, 15 KOs) suffered the first setback of his career with the close unanimous decision loss to Harrison. Fighting out of Houston, Texas, Charlo won the vacant WBC title with a devastating knockout victory over John Jackson in 2016. He made three successful defenses of the title with highlight-reel knockouts over Charles Hatley and Erickson Lubin, plus a majority decision win over former champion Austin Trout.

Charlo is trained in Dallas by Derrick James, who was recognized as the 2017 Trainer of the Year by Yahoo Sports and also works with welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. Charlo is one-minute younger than his identical twin brother, Jermall, who is the WBC interim middleweight champion and a former 154-pound champion.

“I am in a ruthless state of mind. I am upset and this upcoming fight, I am going to give it 110 percent,” said Charlo. “I am way hungrier now than I was before. I am not desperate for a win because I know how to win. The judges gave me a bad decision because I didn’t get the knockout, but you don’t have to knock everybody out to beat them. He knows he didn’t beat me. He knows exactly what happened. He knows he can’t beat me. If I have to go in there and prove it again, I will.”

Rigondeaux (18-1, 12 KOs) will look to show off the masterful technical skills that made him a unified world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list when he steps into the ring on June 23. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. The 38-year-old most recently knocked out Giovanni Delgado in January on FS1.

Fighting out of Tlalnepantla, Mexico, Ceja (32-3, 28 KOs) won an interim world title at super bantamweight in 2015 by stopping Hugo Ruiz in the fifth-round. The 26-year-old would lose the full title to Ruiz in their rematch in 2016, but has won two of three fights since, including a knockout of Anselmo Moreno.

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

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, @MayweatherPromo, @MandalayBay and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.