Jalen Renaud V Amadeu Cristiano!

Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular

October, 2019

Windham, NH [October 28, 2019] - Boston Boxing Promotions has announced that Springfield, Massachusetts' undefeated junior middleweight Jalen Renaud (3-0, 1 KO) will be in action on November 27th as part of the Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular at the Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire as he takes on Brazilian-born Boston resident Amadeu Cristiano in a four-round fight.

Renaud is a former three-time Golden Gloves Champion who compiled an amateur record of 64-16. He made his pro debut this past summer and is on pace to fight four times in less than six months.

"What you can expect out of me is a boxing clinic," said Renaud. "Cristiano is coming to fight. He's not trying to take a loss. However, I just got to throw my hands faster and stick my jab in his face and stay away from whatever he has coming at me."

Cristiano is an accomplished combat sports athlete with boxing, MMA and Muay Thai kickboxing experience. With a Muay Thai record of 53-17, he is the reigning Lion Fights Muay Thai North American Middleweight Champion. He trains at Hard Knocks Muay Thai in Everett, Massachusetts and has competed on national television on AXS TV.

Tickets for the Second Annual Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular are available at www.BoxingNH.com.

JIM ALERS KNOCKS OUT LEONARD GARCIA!

Chase Sherman Defeats Arnold Adams

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) returned to the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Miss. on Saturday night as Jim Alers knocked out Leonard Garcia in the main event of BKFC 7 live on FITE and the BKFC YouTube page.

Alers immediately overwhelmed Garcia with an onslaught and dropped Garcia just six seconds in to the fight. Alers continued to press the action and knocked Garcia down again before the :30 mark. As Garcia's left eye appeared to swell shut, Alers kept unloading massive shots on Garcia. Garcia hit the canvas two more times and referee Bill Clancy had seen enough, stopping the bout 1:38 in to round one.

"It was fun," said Alers. "I came in and did exactly what I said I was going to do. I came in, got in his face, put those hands on him and there was no recovering from that."

BKFC Heavyweight Champion and Police Gazette American Bare Knuckle Heavyweight Champion Arnold Adams went toe-to-toe in a thrilling contest against challenger Chase Sherman. Both fighters shined at times, but Sherman was able to drop Adams in the opening seconds of round five and collected a unanimous decision (49-45 X 2, 49-46), winning both bare knuckle heavyweight titles in the process.

"It feels really good," said Sherman. "It's been 136 years since this belt came back to Mississippi. It's back now and it's going to stay here.

"I pushed the pace," continued Sherman. "I had to get Arnold out of that relaxed rhythm that he finds himself in and it worked."

Defending Police Gazette American Women's Bare Knuckle Featherweight Champion Christine Ferea faced Helen Peralta in a semi-final matchup of the BKFC women's featherweight tournament. In a back and forth bout that saw both fighters knocked down in the second round, Peralta upset Ferea by unanimous decision (48-47 X 2, 48-45) to earn the Police Gazette American Women's Bare Knuckle Featherweight Championship and advance to the BKFC women's featherweight tournament final.

Isaac Vallie-Flagg emerged victorious over Melvin Guillard as Guillard was forced to retire after round three due to an injury to his right hand. The official time of the stoppage came at the 2:00 mark of the third round.

Adam Pellerano knocked down Joshua Boudreaux twice en route to a knockout victory with the referee stopping the fight 1:30 in to round two.

Dale Sopi met Juan Torres in a very spirited and evenly-matched contest with Sopi earning a unanimous decision (49-46 X 2, 48-47) victory.

Kaleb Harris dominated Johnavan Vistante, knocking Vistante down three times in round one and twice more in the second round. The fifth and final knockdown came from a Harris right hand that connected perfectly with Vistante's chin, knocking Vistante out cold and ending the contest at the :51 mark of round two.

In the first contest of the night, from the opening bell, Bubba Malbrough and Quintin Henry exchanged thunderous blows at a furious pace. Henry recovered from being dropped twice early and scored a vicious knockdown of Malbrough late in the first frame with the referee stopping the bout at the 1:55 mark and Henry earning the technical knockout victory.

The event was distributed and executive produced by MultiVision Media, Inc.

ADAM KOWNACKI DEFEATS CHRIS ARREOLA!

PASCAL UPSETS BROWN

Unbeaten Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki (20-0, 15 KOs) earned a unanimous decision over Chris "The Nightmare" Arreola (38-6-1, 33 KOs) in an all-action brawl in front of his hometown fans that headlined FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes Saturday night from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Kownacki and Arreola set the CompuBox heavyweight record for combined punches landed and thrown in a heavyweight fight. They landed a combined 667 punches, besting the previous record of 650, while throwing 2,172 punches, far surpassing the previous mark of 1,730.

"Chris is an Aztec warrior," said Kownacki. "He's a great fighter. I knew it would be a tough fight and I prepared for it. The CompuBox numbers prove it was a great fight."

"Adam is relentless," said Arreola. "He just keeps coming. I know I got him with some good punches and he got me with some good ones. I was more than ready to go all 12, but Adam came in and won the fight."

The action began right from the first bell, as Kownacki charged at Arreola and immediately began exchanging as both men threw power punches in bunches. Kownacki worked off of his jab to initiate his offense, while Arreola was effectively able to counter his hard-charging opponent and respond every time he was hit with a combination.

"I thought it was a good close fight but I knew I pulled it out," said Kownacki. "I landed a lot of shots and that was enough to win. That's all that matters."

Kownacki stunned Arreola in the early moments of round two but Arreola quickly responded to slow Kownacki's momentum. Arreola found more and more success with his overhand right as the fight went, landing the punch numerous times in the fourth and fifth round especially.

Round six was a back and forth affair that featured a big offensive surge from Kownacki early in the round, before an exciting exchange at the end of the round saw both men take heavy punches.

"I tried to follow up when I had him hurt but I was throwing two punches instead of three or four," said Kownacki. "Props to Arreola because he proved he could still hang. I'm sure the fans would want to see him again."

The middle rounds saw Arreola pick up a hand injury, but it didn't appear to slow him down much as his punch output continued to be strong for the second half of the fight. For Kownacki, it was his first time going past 10 rounds as a pro.

After the punches continued to fly through the last bell, the two heavyweights embraced in the ring prior to hearing the judges' scores. After 12 rounds, all three judges saw the fight in favor of Kownacki, by scores of 117-11 twice and 118-110.

"Retirement is something I need to talk to my family and team about," said Arreola. "I gave it my all this fight. I let it all hang out. After breaking my hand, I kept fighting because I believed I could win."

"I just have to keep training hard, getting better and sharpening my skills," said Kownacki. "We'll see what the future holds. Hopefully next year I'll get the title shot."

The co-main event saw former world champion Jean Pascal (34-6-1, 20 KOs) earn a narrow technical decision over previously unbeaten Marcus Browne (23-1, 16 KOs) to capture the WBA interim light heavyweight title after an accidental headbutt ended the fight in round eight.

"Boxing is boxing," said Pascal. "We clashed heads, but at the end of the day, I was winning the round. I dropped him three times. It was a close fight, but I believe I was winning."

Browne appeared to be in control early, using his jab effectively and finishing his combos with power punches. Throughout the fight, Browne would land 52% of his power punches according to CompuBox.

In round four, Pascal broke through landing a perfect right hand that connected with Browne as he threw his own right hook. Browne hit the canvas for the third time in his career, but was able to make it through the round.

Browne looked to have regained control of the fight until late in round seven when Pascal again connected on a powerful right hook that caught Browne during an exchange. Pascal jumped on Browne after he got to his feet and knocked him down a third time right before the bell ended round seven.

Montreal's Pascal was looking to finish Browne in round eight, while Browne looked to effectively navigate the ring while recovering from the previous round. It was midway through the round that Pascal hit Browne with an accidental headbutt on the ropes that opened a cut over Browne's left eye.

Referee Gary Rosato halted the bout 1:49 into the round, on the advice of the ringside physician, meaning the fight went to the scorecards. By winning the shortened eighth round on all three judges' cards, Pascal won the fight by the score of 75-74 three times.

"I could hear my daughter ringside and that was motivation for me," said Pascal. "She was yelling my name all night long. I'm going to go home and talk to my team to see what is next. Canada has Drake, the NBA Champions and now I'm bringing the belt home."

Browne was unavailable for post fight comments as he was taken to NYU Lutheran Medical Center due to the cut.

The opening bout on FOX saw Wale Omotoso (28-4, 22 KOs) drop Curtis Stevens (30-7, 22 KOs) three times on his way to a third round stoppage victory in their super welterweight clash.

For Stevens it was his first fight at 154-pounds, and he was tested at the new weight from the outset. Omotoso began moving and jabbing around the ring as Stevens stalked him and tried to throw power punches to slow his movement. Late in the first round, Omotoso broke through with a right hand to the side of Stevens' head that dropped him in the middle of the ring.

"My coach told me to keep my hands up, be patient, box him and jab," said Omotoso. "He told me I shouldn't push it and that when the opening was there, I'd take it. That's exactly what happened."

"He hit me with an overhand right in the first round that knocked my equilibrium," said Stevens. "But that didn't really affect me too much. I wasn't stepping enough into my punches, I was reaching. I got caught when I was reaching."

In round two Omotoso landed a perfect jab on Stevens, as his opponent was throwing a left hook, that sent him down for the second time in the fight. Stevens again made it through the round, and began the next frame trapping Omotoso in the corner and connecting on power punches.

"I was just letting my hands go," said Omotoso. "On the second knockdown my confidence grew. I was glad to get the victory by knockout."

While Stevens was able to own the early moments of the third round, Omotoso hit him with a three punch combo that featured left hook, left uppercut and then straight right hand that put Stevens down for the third time. Stevens got to his feet but referee Johnny Callas halted the bout at 1:28 of the third round.

"I was okay but the referee has to do his job," said Stevens. "I was down three times so I know he was looking out for my best interests."

"I didn't expect it to go exactly like that," said Omotoso. "I was just listening to my coach. The second knockdown was actually with my jab. I have to talk to my team about what's next. I'm thankful for this opportunity. I'm so happy to have this win. Give me anybody next, I'm ready."

Jaime Arboleda!

Inks With Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of Panamanian junior lightweight Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda to a promotional contract.

Arboleda (13-1, 11 KOs) has been fighting since he was six years old. As an amateur, he fought internationally, going 117-13 and winning the national title at 123 pounds in 2012. He turned professional in 2014.

Arboleda is from a fighting family, as his father, uncle and two older brothers all fought. Brother José was a world-ranked junior featherweight before being killed in a bus accident in 2009. Growing up in the notorious Curundu section of Panama City, Arboleda avoided the gang life by spending most of this time at the Pedro Rockero Alcazar Gym in Panama City, working with trainer Rigoberto Garibaldi.

The 24-year-old is known as a stylist with above-average power in his punches, especially the left hook. Blessed with a high ring intelligence, Arboleda has drawn early comparisons to his countryman and former world champion Ismael Laguna.

“I am very happy to sign with Sampson Boxing,” said Arboleda. “Panamanians like (former two-time world champion) Roberto Vasquez have signed with him and had great careers. Sampson is the right person to move me forward. I trust him and know that he will help me get where I want to be.”

Arboleda also recently signed with Vasquez’s former manager, Carlos Gonzalez, who says the young prospect now has the team in place to make things happen.

“Jaimito wants nothing more than to give his family a better life through boxing and now he has the people who can help him do it. We already have him scheduled to fight twice in the coming months. He is very enthusiastic to become someone in life.”

Promoter Lewkowicz says he’s excited to work with another promising Panamanian after his successful runs with world champions like Vasquez, Anselmo Moreno and Celestino Caballero.

“Panama has produced many great fighters and with some help Jaime can become another one,” said Lewkowicz. “Carlos and I have a plan set out for him and we expect he will become a recognized contender in the next year or two. He works very hard in the gym to reach his goals.”

DANNY GARCIA V ADRIAN GRANADOS!

April 20 From Dignity Health Sports Park

Former two-division world champion Danny "Swift" Garcia and veteran contender Adrian Granados previewed their Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes main event showdown at a press conference in Los Angeles Tuesday as they prepare to square-off Saturday, April 20 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, in association with DSG Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or at the Dignity Health Sports Park box office from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The April 20 broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features heavyweight contender Andy Ruiz Jr. taking on Alexander Dimitrenko in a 10-round bout in the co-feature and unbeaten contender Brandon Figueroa battling Venezuela's Yonfrez Parejo in a 12-round match for the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from the Palms Restaurant Downtown L.A.:

DANNY GARCIA

"I've been training hard. I've seen Granados fight a few times and I know what he can do. I'm excited to be back in Los Angeles, because this is where the stars fight. This is another fight that can get me to where I want to go in my career.

"My mentality is that I have to stop Granados. Nobody has stopped him and I have to do that to make a statement. He's never fought a counter puncher like me and I'm definitely the hardest puncher he's faced. I'm going to showcase everything to get the stoppage.

"This is another fight for my legacy. There have been a lot of great fights in my career and this is another important one for me. I know he's coming to fight, but I'm looking to make this one of my easiest wins.

"He's a tough and aggressive fighter who likes to throw a lot of punches. He's hungry, and that's the type of guy that you have to watch out for. I've got to handle my business against Granados before I look to any bigger fights.

"This is a big platform for me to perform on. I'm going to show the world why I'm one of the best fighters in the world.

"I plan on winning with style. I'm going to bring a lot of skill, a lot of will, a lot of power and I'm going to entertain my fans. April 20 will be the 'Danny Garcia Show.'"

ADRIAN GRANADOS

"This is going to be a great fight. We're two fighters who bring it. I'm coming for a victory in dominating fashion. This is the fight that I've wanted for a while now.

"I haven't had the easiest road and that's why I'm looking to get my respect in this fight. I'm looking forward to this. It's going to be a barnburner. May the best man win.

"If he's underestimating me it will definitely be a big mistake on his part. I don't think he will though. I think he realizes now he's in for a fight. If he didn't know me before, he does now. I'm going to give him a piece of my mind April 20.

"I was never taken care of coming up. I always had to work harder to get to where I'm at. Danny and I basically had the same accolades in the amateurs, and I always gave him kudos for what he's done in his whole career, but he doesn't know what I've gotten through to get here.

"I'm coming to get my respect in this fight. I'm going to make Danny fight and see what he's made of. I've always had a chip on my shoulder but being able to take out a fighter like Danny is motivating me to another level."

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

"Premier Boxing Champions has made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and biggest fights to Southern California. We started with the Wilder vs. Fury heavyweight title fight downtown in December and we're back again in April at the Dignity Health Sports Park. This is the premier outdoor boxing venue in the United States and we have a great show there on April 20.

"Danny Garcia is a throwback fighter. A first-ballot Hall of Famer in my opinion. At 140-pounds he took on the best in the division and never backed down from a challenge. Danny was a 2-1 underdog when he fought Lucas Matthysse, and we knew what happened after, he proved the doubters wrong. I'm so excited to have him back in California on this great card.

"Adrian Granados could arguably be sitting up here with a record of 27-1, since all but one of his losses have been by split or majority decision, and usually it's in his opponent's backyard. He's a battle-tested veteran who's made a name for himself bringing action-packed fights to the fans. When we announced all the PBC on FOX fights, this is the one that I circled."

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of President of Mayweather Promotions

"This is going to be a terrific fight. I've really been looking forward to this fight because I've known these guys for a long time. Styles make fights and in this particular matchup, we have two fighters who are all action.

"Danny has shown that he's an elite fighter, because he's beaten a number of great world champions. Adrian Granados always comes to fight. He's never ever in a boring fight. The styles mesh so well, with Danny being a world class counter-puncher and also being a superb boxer. Granados is going to force Danny to fight on the inside a lot more than usual.

"I think this fight is going to bring the best out of both Danny and Adrian. They've both fought a number of very good fighters and been in involved in numerous debatable decisions. They're going to have to leave it all in the ring come April 20."

Deontay Wilder V Dominic Breazeale!

Saturday, May 18 Live on SHOWTIME

Undefeated WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay "The Bronze Bomber" Wilder will put his title on the line for the ninth time when he steps into the ring against hard-hitting mandatory challenger Dominic "Trouble" Breazeale live on SHOWTIME and presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, May 18 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Wilder vs. Breazeale promises the type of explosive displays of power that fans have come to expect from the red-hot heavyweight division as the two knockout artists have combined for 57 knockouts in 62 professional bouts. Both men stand at 6-foot-7-inches tall, have engaged in numerous dramatic clashes and are fan-favorites at Barclays Center. Wilder will be fighting at the arena for the fourth time and Breazeale will be making his third appearance.

Tickets for this BombZquad event go on sale Friday, March 22 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Beginning Saturday, March 23 at 12 p.m. ET, tickets can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Wilder (40-0-1, 39 KOs) is the most exciting heavyweight in the world with a power-punching style that has fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish, knowing the tide of a fight can change in the blink of an eye. He has only gone the distance twice in his career with 39 of his 41 matches ending inside of the distance. He battered Bermane Stiverne over 12 rounds to win a lopsided unanimous decision and claim the WBC title on Jan. 17, 2015. In the rematch two years later Wilder crushed Stiverne with a brutal first-round knockout that left the challenger crumpled on the bottom rope.

The 33-year-old Wilder is coming off a thrilling battle with British heavyweight contender Tyson Fury that resulted in a split draw on Dec. 1. Wilder scored knockdowns in the ninth and 12th rounds of the fight. The last knockdown appeared to finish off Fury, but he beat the referee's count and made it to the final bell.

Born in and still living in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Wilder picked up the nickname "The Bronze Bomber'' in honor of Joe Louis, who was known as "The Brown Bomber'' after he won the bronze medal as a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic boxing team. Wilder got a late start as a boxer, taking up the sport at age 20 hoping to become a professional and earn enough money for the medical treatments of his daughter Naieya, who was born with spina bifida. He won the U.S. Olympic trials with just 21 amateur bouts under his belt.

"I'm very happy that I get a chance to get a mandatory out of the way, because I consider mandatories like flies buzzing around my head," said Wilder. "They bother me. I'm busy. I have things that I want to do. I want to get him out of the way. I'm about to smash this fly. This is a personal fight for me. As the universe works this is the perfect time. I haven't been this excited about destroying an opponent since Bermane Stiverne. I'm also excited to have the very first event for BombZquad Promotions at what I consider one of best arenas in the country, Barclays Center in Brooklyn. It's go time baby. I can't wait.''

Breazeale (20-1, 18 KOs) is nicknamed "Trouble'' and that's exactly what he has been for his opponents. The 33-year-old has a durable chin and a slugger's mentality, throwing heavy-handed shots that have seen him score 18 knockout victories in his 21 professional fights.

Breazeale, who was born in Glendale, California and now lives in Eastvale, California, was an outstanding high school football player who played quarterback at Northern Colorado University before taking up boxing. The 6-foot-7 Breazeale was a member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team.

He put himself into position to challenge for the WBC world title by ripping off three straight knockout victories following the only loss in his career, a seventh-round TKO to Anthony Joshua in a heavyweight world title match in 2016. In December he scored a knockout victory in Brooklyn over Carlos Negron for his second-straight win at Barclays Center.

"I'm excited for the event more so than just fighting Deontay Wilder," said Breazeale. "I want that WBC title. What I bring to the fight is excitement and consistent action. I'm going to bring the action all night. I'm not scared to stick my nose out there and look for the big shot. I know the big shot is coming as long as I set it up the right way.''

Aslambek Idigov!

Returns To Action On December 18

On Tuesday, December 18, inside the Pyramid in Kazan, Russia, WBO #13 super middleweight Aslambek “The Hulk” Idigov will stay active with a 10-round showdown against rugged Russian veteran Konstantin “The Volga Cossack” Piternov.

Idigov (14-0, 6 KOs) is a 5’ 8” bull with pinpoint accuracy. This will be the Idigov’s fourth fight this year since signing with Salita. The 23-year-old has been training mostly at the Kronk Gym in Detroit to prepare for his fights and the improvement has been remarkable.

“I had a great training camp and I look forward to putting it all on display December 18,” said Idigov. “I have a very experienced opponent in front of me, but my skills will show that I am ready for the elite in the division.”

Idogov is another of Salita Promotions’ “Beasts from the East” a growing stable of fighters from the former Soviet Bloc that includes Uzbekistan-born junior welterweight sensation Shohjahon “Shoh” Ergashev, undefeated world-ranked light heavyweight Umar Salamov, undefeated Kazakhstani junior welterweight showman Bakhtiyar Eyubov, undefeated heavyweight Apti Davtaev, undefeated Ukrainian-born ethnic Korean super bantamweight slugger Arnold Khegai, cruiserweight contender Alexey Zubov, undefeated women’s future champion Elena Savelyeva, top-rated bantamweight Nikolai Potapov, undefeated up-and-coming women’s prospect Elena Gradinar and undefeated heavyweight Izim Izbaki.

“Aslambek has shown tremendous improvement in his last several fights and I expect for him to finish the year out in a big way with an impressive victory on December 18,” said his promoter, Dmitriy Salita.

Tete-Aloyan & Tabiti-Fayfer!

Ready For Quarter Finals

Comosa AG is delighted to bring a spectacular doubleheader to Russia: the Ali Trophy Bantamweight Quarter-Final and WBO World Championship between Zolani Tete and Mikhail Aloyan and the Cruiserweight Quarter-Final between Andrew Tabiti and Ruslan Fayfer.

All four fighters performed their media workouts today ahead of their quarter-finals that will take place at the Ekaterinburg Expo in Ekaterinburg this Saturday.

Russia’s Aloyan (4-0) begins a tough quest for the Muhammad Ali Trophy against SouthAfrica’s WBO World Champion Zolani Tete (27-3, 21 KOs).

“I have watched Tete’s fights, but I do not want to let him distract me too much. I’d better concentrate on my own goals,” said Aloyan. “I know it’s only my fifth fight as a professional, but I have huge experience as an amateur and that helps me a lot. It’s a big opportunity to fight in the WBSS, and my goal is to win the trophy.”

The cruiserweight bracket was revealed in August by tournament organiser Comosa and threw up a match-up of unbeaten fighters with America's Andrew Tabiti (16-0, 13 KOs) taking on Russian Ruslan Fayfer (23-0, 16 KOs) in the Season II cruiserweight opener.

“Tabiti has no loses, he has good footwork and defense, he has a lot of experience,” said Fayfer of the Floyd Mayweather Snr trained boxer.

“But we have our plan and we are working to realise it in the ring. I don’t pay attention to his KO statistics.”

“My goal is to make sure Season II of the WBSS will be as awesome as the first in the cruiserweight edition, and I want to win the Muhammad Ali Trophy!”

HEATHER HARDY V SHELLY VINCENT!

WORLD TITLE FIGHT

In a rematch of their epic 2016 "Fight of the Year", Brooklyn's Heather "The Heat" Hardy (21-0, 4 KOs) and Shelly "Shelito's Way" Vincent (23-1, 1 KO) will clash once again on October 27, at the Hulu Theater from Madison Square Garden. The scheduled 10-round bout, for the vacant WBO Women's Featherweight World title, will open a sensational tripleheader televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Previously announced on the telecast, Daniel Jacobs (34-2, 29 KOs) and Sergiy Derevyanchenko (12-0, 10 KOs) will battle for the vacant IBF World Middleweight Title and Alberto Machado (20-0, 16 KOs) will defend his WBA Super Featherweight Title against Yuandale Evans (20-1, 14 KOs).

"I'm so excited and so honored to be fighting on HBO," said Hardy. "Shelly and I have wanted a rematch since the first fight ended and it's fitting that it's on this huge card and will be telecast on HBO from Madison Square Garden. The first fight was one of the very best of 2016 and the rematch will start right where we finished off."

Said Vincent emphatically about the world title bout and prospect of winning the title belt, "I'm not leaving without my property!"

"I was thrilled to call Heather and Shelly and let them know that their rematch will be telecast on HBO," said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. "I have to give a lot of credit to Peter Nelson and HBO for advancing women's boxing by stepping up to air this fight."

"The first fight between Heather and Shelly was an outstanding, back-and-forth battle, reminiscent of the Gatti-Ward fights that I co-promoted. I anticipate nothing less when the bell rings for the rematch. October 27 is a stacked card, in the intimate setting of Hulu Theater from Madison Square Garden, and I encourage as many fans as possible to join us live."

Fighting on August 21, 2016, in Coney Island, NY, and in a nationally telecast bout, Hardy won a hard-fought majority decision over 10 rounds. Hardy has since won three additional fights including two victories versus former world title challenger Edina Kiss. Most recently, Hardy scored an eight-round decision against Iranda Torres on April 21, in Brooklyn.

A native of Providence, RI, Vincent has stayed busy with five wins since her loss to Hardy, the only defeat of her eight years as a professional. As a result of her performance against Hardy, the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame named her their "Fighter of the Year" for 2016, with Vincent becoming the first female recipient of that award. In her last bout on July 21, Vincent took home an eight-round decision victory against Calista Silgado.

Tickets are on sale NOW from TicketMaster.com priced from $46, $66, $106, $206 and $356 (ringside). The Jacobs vs. Derevyanchenko event is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and DiBella Entertainment in association with Fight Promotions Inc., Golden Boy Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions.

Inoue-Payano & Relikh-Troyanovsky!

Go Head To Head In Japan

Japan’s Naoya Inoue and the Dominican Republic’s Juan Carlos Payano are ready for their Ali Trophy Quarter-Final and WBA ‘Regular’ World Bantamweight Championship clash on Sunday at the Yokohama Arena, Japan.

“I have great respect for Payano,” said Inoue at Friday’s press conference in Tokyo. “He has a good technique and he had a very good amateur career. He is a two time Olympian so he is very experienced.”

“But I believe in my own strengths. I have had a good training camp, and I am in great shape. It is an honour to compete for the Muhammad Ali Trophy and I am looking forward to fighting in front of my fans."

His opponent, Payano, looked confident at the top table, and he is preparing for a war.

“I have worked very hard for this fight,” said Payano.

“I know it is going to be a tough fight, but I am in top shape. It is lovely to be in Japan and I feel good. I have the utmost respect for Inoue. He is a warrior like myself which makes this fight on of the most interesting bantamweight fights of the year. Expect the best from me on Sunday.”

The event in Yokohama kicks off Season II of the World Boxing Super Series and the quest for the Muhammad Ali Trophy.

It is a doubleheader night with the WBA World Super-Lightweight Championship between Belarus's Kiryl Relikh and Russia's Eduard Troyanovsky in the second main event.

“We are two fighters who can punch so it is going to be a really good fight,” said Troyanovsky. “People can look forward to a fight that will probably not go all the rounds.”

Relikh is also expecting fireworks in Yokohama.

“The Muhammad Ali Trophy is my chance to show the world who I am and what I can do,” said Relikh. “I am sure that my fight against Troyanovsky will be great, it is time for me to prove that I am the real champion.”

Kalle Sauerland, Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer is looking forward to the first WBSS show in Asia.

“I am very happy and proud on the behalf of the World Boxing Super Series to present our first event in Asia, our first event in Japan,” said Kalle Sauerland, Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer.

“We have a sensational opener to the season. In Super-Lightweight, we have Eduard Troyanovsky challenging Kiryl Relikh for the WBA Championship. Kiryl is probably one of the most underrated boxers pound-for-pound at the moment. He faces a Russian puncher with an 86 percent knockout ratio. So that is something quite spectacular.”

“In the main event of the evening, we have Payano taking on Inoue, the local hero, the ‘Monster’ as he is called. It is going to be his toughest fight so far, Payano is an absolute warrior in the ring, a former world champion. Inoue will need all the local support he can get and I have heard that there will be a very big crowd on Sunday evening. So we are very excited to be here in Japan.”

Star Boxing!

Returns To The Paramount

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing is excited to announce the return of the critically acclaimed "Rockin' Fights" series on November 30TH, live, from The Paramount in Huntington Long Island.

The intimate venue makes it feel as if you are in the ring no matter where your seats are located. The "Rockin' Fights" series has a history of bringing extremely action packed fights to Long Island, and the 33rd edition of the fantastic fight series will be no different.

As a loyal fan of Star Boxing, and the Rockin' Fights series, you will have access to tickets before anyone else. Get your tickets, on pre-sale NOW, until October 5th at 10AM, by using code 'STAR' to gain early access before tickets go on sale to the general public on October 5th

Tommy O'Connell!

Suffers Broken Wrist, Ribs & Broken Shoulder Blade

Boston Boxing Promotion's has announced that after a ten-year layoff from boxing, Haverhill's Brendon Simonds (2-0, 2 KO's) will return to the ring on Thanksgiving Eve, November 21, 2018 at The Castleton Banquet and Conference Center in Windham, New Hampshire.

He will be taking on Vermont's Andre Belcarris in a four-round welterweight fight. Belcarris was originally supposed to fight North Andover's "Irish" Tommy O'Connell, a fighter that Simonds has helped train, but O'Connell was forced to withdraw after suffering a broken wrist, broken ribs and a broken shoulder blade following an accident this past weekend.

"This has been ten years in the making," said Simonds.

"When I last fought ten years ago, I didn't plan on it being the last time I fought. My wife was pregnant and soon enough between my job and family, I was in and out of the gym and basically making excuses. On November 21st there's no excuses. I'm fighting at least one last time and I'm going out on my own terms."

Simonds last fought in August of 2008 scoring a second-round TKO in Worcester, Massachusetts over Edwin Rosado. Prior to that, Simonds made his pro debut in 2005 with a first-round TKO in a fight held in Braintree. This upcoming fight in Windham represents the closest Simonds has ever fought to his hometown of Haverhill.

"Thanksgiving Eve is a great night for everyone to get together and see people you haven't seen in forever and have a good time. Instead of going right to downtown Haverhill that night, I expect to see tons of people at the fight in Windham. I'm excited and looking forward to it."

Andre Belcarris, a battle tested veteran of both the boxing ring and MMA cage, was completely unfazed by the change in opponent for him in November.

"On the eve of Thanksgiving, let's give the fight fans something to be thankful for," Belcarris said enthusiastically when asked to comment.

Tickets for the November 21, 2018 Thanksgiving Eve Boxing event in Windham, NH are on sale now at www.BoxingNH.com.

Elvis Figueroa V Leemont Johnson!

Battle Of Unbeatens

CES Boxing's star-studded professional and amateur boxing showcase Saturday, Oct. 20th, 2018 at Foxwood Resort Casino's famed Fox Theatre just added another huge fight to its already-stacked lineup.

Joining teammate Edwin Soto from the Boxing In Faith Gym in New Haven, Conn., undefeated super middleweight and fellow New Haven resident Elvis Figueroa steps up to face "Lethal" Leemont Johnson of Pittsburgh in a six-round battle of unbeatens.

The 27-year-old Johnson (6-0, 4 KOs) has been on an incredible role since making his professional in February of 2017. The combined record of his last three opponents at the time of the opening bell was 10-2, including a win over 6-2 Eric Govan in November followed by an impressive fourth-round knockout win over unbeaten Jeremy Lane in May. Oct. 20th is his first fight in the northeast.

The fan-favorite Figueroa is no stranger to the Foxwoods audience. He made his Fox Theatre on June 2nd, outworking the game Leandro Silva in an unanimous decision win. He compiled an impressive amateur record before turning pro, including a showdown with former United States Light Heavyweight Champion Jonathan Esquivel at the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials in Reno.

The Figueroa-Johnson fight is one of nine on the professional main card, which begins at 7 p.m. ET preceded by the preliminary amateur bouts. Tickets are priced at $47, $77 and $157 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com, www.foxwoods.com, or www.ticketmaster.com; by phone at 401-724-2253 or 800-200-2882 or at the Fox Theater Box Office.

Ruben Villa!

Fights In Hometown Of Salinas, CA

Promising featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (13-0, 5 KOs) headlines a talent rich card from his hometown of Salinas, Calif. on Saturday, Oct. 13.

Villa, 21, returns to the Salinas Storm House for the second time this year. The talented southpaw faces Mexico's Miguel Carrizoza (10-3, 2 KOs) in the 8-round "New Blood" main event.

Villa last fought from the Salinas Storm House in April, when he routed fellow prospect Marlon Olea in route to winning the vacant WBO Youth featherweight championship. It was Villa's first title since turning professional in July 2016.

The two-time national Golden Gloves winner fights for the fifth time this year after registering six wins in 2017.

"It's incredible how fast I've developed," said Villa, who is managed by Danny Zamora and trained by Max Garcia. "It feels like it was yesterday that I was in four round fights and now I'm routinely headlining shows."

The lefty, who sometimes conducts training camps in the sparring rich city of Riverside, Calif., decided to stay close to home for this fight. Him and his team have zeroed in on what is required to defeat Carrizoza.

"He fought my stablemate, Michael Dutchover [undefeated junior lightweight], last year so Mike gave me a pretty detailed scouting report on him," Villa said. "He's a bruiser. He likes to come forward and get you onto the ropes or just backpedaling. I know how to fight guys like that. I've fought against guys like that before and I've seen a bunch of them in previous training camps. We are really comfortable in our game plan."

Villa is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

Tickets for "New Blood" are priced at $40, $75, & $125, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

In the 6-round co-feature, unbeaten lightweight Pedro Moreno (9-0, 5 KOs) of Sacramento, Calif. faces veteran Erick Martinez (14-13-1, 8 KOs) of Mexico. Moreno, a former Silver Gloves champion and U.S. Junior Olympic team member, is coming off a complete performance against Luis Zarazua in late June.

Moreno, 21, is stepping up in class by facing the more experienced Martinez.

"I think it will be the toughest fight of my career," said Moreno, who signed with Thompson Boxing in March. "Martinez has a lot of fights under his belt so he knows how to compete against a lot of different styles. I need to make a statement early. I can't let him get comfortable and develop any kind of momentum. It's going to be a fun fight to watch."

Leading the "New Blood" undercard is junior welterweight Max Becerra (15-2-2, 8 KOs) of Sacramento. Becerra will fight an opponent to be named later (6-rounds).

Lightweight Brandon Trejo (3-1, 1 KO) of Napa, Calif. faces the winless Mario Franco (0-3) of Mexico in a bout set for 4-rounds.

Unbeaten bantamweight prospect Eros Correa (2-0, 1 KO) of San Jose, Calif. meets Leonardo Torrez (4-11, 1 KO) of Mexico in a fight scheduled for 4-rounds.

Opening "New Blood" is featherweight Arnold Dinong (1-0) of San Leandro, Calif. Dinong will face an opponent to be named later (4-rounds).

The Salinas Storm House is located at 185 Maryal Drive in Salinas, CA 93907.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 6 p.m.

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel, and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert, color commentary.

"New Blood" is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and Banner Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

George Groves & Callum Smith!

Ready To Close Inaugural Ali Trophy Season In Style

George Groves and Callum Smith were in confident voice at the Final Press Conference ahead of their Ali Trophy Super Middleweight Final on Friday at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The all British-battle between the tournament’s top two seeds will close the hugely successful inaugural season of the World Boxing Super Series and determine the division’s number one fighter with a host of titles up for grabs.

Groves, the defending WBA Super World Champion, booked his place in the final with impressive victories over countrymen Jamie Cox and Chris Eubank Jr, while Smith, the WBC Diamond titlist, secured his spot with decisions over Erik Skoglund and Nieky Holzken. The prestigious Ring Magazine title will also be on the line.

George Groves:

“It’s great to finally be only a day or two away from the fight. We’ve had a great camp in the end. It took a long time to get back to full fitness, but we’re there now, and everything has gone as good as it possibly could. After such a long training camp and a long time since my last win, I can’t wait to fight and to collect some new belts and the Ali Trophy.

“I have been involved in some real big fights as a professional. I recently became WBA Super Champion and ranked number one in the division. Up for grabs for me this time around is the Ring Magazine belt, the WBC Diamond Championship and obviously the Ali Trophy as well.

“The tournament is only in year one, but everyone is extremely excited about it. It is a very prestigious thing to be associated with it, and I’m going to make sure I win it and win it well to stake my claim as the number one in the division.”

Callum Smith:

“It is a massive opportunity for me. Every fighter who starts boxing dreams of becoming a World Champion and I was no different. I turned professional and I believed my abilities were good enough to tell me to the very top and Friday night I get a chance to be there.

“A win over George puts me as the best super middleweight in the world, and a World Champion and a Ring Magazine Champion. It ticks a lot of boxes for me this fight, there is a lot at stake and that’s why I turned professional, for fights like these. I’ excited. I’m in a good place. I feel good, I feel strong. I’m ready to do what I came here to do and that’s become a World Champion.”

Shane McGuigan (Groves coach):

“It’s very different (from Eubank Jr. fight). You’ve got a guy who's 6 foot or 5’11 and another guy whose 6’3’’. Completely different styles and that has been reflected in our training camp.

“I believe Callum is a much better fighter than Eubank Jr. and George will have to be better on the night, but I’m very confident that we are going to come away with the win. George has got the experience and I think the experience is going to tell in this fight. Calum has been in this position for a very long time. He has waited for this opportunity so we are expecting the very best Callum Smith.”

Joe Gallagher (Smith coach):

“There’s not much really to be said here. You’ve got the number one and number two seed of the tournament meeting in the final. Everyone is well aware of George Groves. His attempts at World titles and becoming World Champion, for which I think the whole nation in the UK was really pleased for him.

“This is now Callum Smith’s opportunity. His chance to shine, and he’s now got to go take this opportunity with both hands. We’re excited and ready to go, and ready to take care of business on Friday night.”

Wilfried Sauerland (Hall of Fame Promoter):

“For us it is a big day on Friday when we come to the final of the first round of the World Boxing Super Series. We’ve had one final already in Moscow and on Friday it will be the final everybody has been looking forward to in the super middleweight division, one of the strongest divisions in boxing.

"On Friday, we have the two best super middleweights in he world fighting on Friday for this most prestigious trophy and I myself can’t wait to see this fight. That means something when, like me, you have seen thousands of fights. It will be a very special occasion.”

Fans in the UK can watch Groves vs Smith LIVE on ITV Box Office. Ringwalks for the final will be at 9.00 pm UK time. Registration is open at itvboxoffice.com.

Fans in the U.S. can watch LIVE on DAZN, the global sports streaming platform. To sign up for a one-month free trial, fans can visit DAZN.com or download the DAZN app to their preferred connected device.

JOHN ORTOLANI!

TO COMPETE ON THANKSGIVING EVE BOXING EVENT

Boston Boxing Promotions has announced another fight for Thanksgiving Eve, November 21, 2018 at The Castleton Banquet and Conference Center in Windham, New Hampshire as Billerica, Massachusetts' native John Ortolani will take on Schuylerville, New York's Ian Beatease in a four-round junior middleweight fight.

Ortolani and Beatease are both accomplished combat sports athletes. Ortolani is a former title challenger for regional championships in Mixed Martial Arts and Beatease is a former MMA regional amateur champion. Ortolani is also a former professional lacrosse player playing for both the Boston Cannons and Boston Breakers. He is a graduate of Endicott College in Beverly, Massachusetts.

“I am really excited to be able to step into the ring again in front of a New England crowd," said John Ortolani, who currently lives and trains in Florida.

"My opponent has a lot of combat sports experience, and I’m looking forward to testing my skills and showcasing my improvements. This will be an exciting matchup for sure. Get your tickets early!”

Beatease, from New York state, is an honorary New Englander as he trains in Vermont. He is teammates with Andre Belcarris who will also fight on the show against North Andover's Tommy O'Connell on the same night.

"A fight is a fight," said a confident Beatease. "I predict action for as long as it lasts and am prepared to go four hard rounds if need be."

ALANTEZ FOX!

EARNS IMPRESSIVE VICTORY IN RETURN TO THE RING ON SATURDAY

DiBella Entertainment's middleweight contender Alantez "SlyAza" Fox, and prospects Tiara "The Dark Menace" Brown and Jose "Cheito" Roman all posted big wins on Saturday night, September 22, in hometown clashes.

At Bowie State University, in Bowie, MD, middleweight contender Alantez Fox (24-1-1, 11 KOs) was victorious returning to the ring following surgery for a torn rotator cuff suffered in his last fight. Battling former world title challenger Elvin Ayala (29-11-1, 13 KOs), the tall southpaw Fox displayed his full arsenal of world-class skills en route to a shutout eight-round decision (80-72 on all cards) in front of the hometown crowd.

Fox was bouncing back from his first loss, a 12-round clash against former world champion Demetrius Andrade on October 21, 2017, telecast on HBO's "Boxing After Dark" from Verona, NY. It was during the first round against Andrade that Fox suffered the injury to his left shoulder and he gutted it out for the remainder of the 10-round contest, including scoring a knockdown in the seventh frame. The 26-year-old Fox is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and New Legend Boxing and managed by Mike Borao.

Also featured in Bowie, MD, on Saturday night, popular, undefeated female prospect Tiara Brown (6-0, 4 KOs) stayed perfect with a fourth-round stoppage of Jasmine Clarkson in their scheduled six-rounder for the Metropolitan Police Department (Washington, D.C.) Officer. Although there were no knockdowns, the ringside physician called a halt to the action at the end of the fourth stanza as Brown was punishing Clarkson with a barrage.

A graduate of Fort Myers High School in Fort Myers, Florida, Brown will be inducted into the school's High School Athletic Hall of Fame this Friday, September 28, at a ceremony to be held during halftime of the school's varsity football game.

Fighting in Juncos, Puerto Rico, the 24-year-old Jose Roman (7-0, 3 KOs) stayed undefeated with another dominant performance, winning a unanimous decision against fellow Boricua, Alexander Charneco. Thrilling the island crowd, the 6'3" Roman, managed by Ricardo Figueroa, earned the victory by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55. The victory was Roman's third this year.

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship!

Returns October 20 Live On Pay-Per-View

Undefeated professional boxer Sam "The Hillbilly Hammer" Shewmaker will face veteran MMA fighter Arnold "AJ" Adams in the finals of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) heavyweight tournament on Saturday, October 20 at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Mississippi and live on pay-per-view.

The championship heavyweight bout will serve as the main event of "BKFC 3: The Takeover", which will be broadcast across the United States and Canada, exclusively on pay-per-view through MultiVision Media, Inc., on all major television and streaming distribution outlets for $29.95.

"After their performances in the quarterfinals and semifinals, Shewmaker and Adams have shown that they are worthy of earning the first-ever BKFC heavyweight belt," said BKFC Founder and President David Feldman. "I'm looking forward to an amazing fight, which I don't expect to go the distance. Both fighters are coming for the knockout and to take this title in spectacular fashion."

Tickets for "BKFC 3: The Takeover" are available now exclusively at www.bareknuckle.tv beginning at $35.

"I'm going to knock him out," said Shewmaker. "I'm the better fighter and he's going to find that out the second the bell rings for round one to start."

"That heavyweight belt is coming back to Chicago with me," said Adams. "I'm ready for whatever Shewmaker tries on October 20."

BKFC 3 will also showcase the beginning of the men's 135-pound lightweight tournament, with a champion expected to be crowned in 2019. All four quarterfinal-round fights, plus the tournament alternate bout, will be contested on October 20. The lightweight tournament field will include UFC and Bellator veteran Johnny Bedford against professional boxer Reggie Barnett Jr., both of whom are undefeated so far in BKFC competition.

Returning to BKFC action is undefeated bare knuckle fighting legend and Police Gazette Bare Knuckle Heavyweight Champion Bobby Gunn, as well as UFC and Bellator veteran Kendall Grove. Grove will face former University of Alabama linebacker Marcel Stamps, who is undefeated in both MMA and bare knuckle fighting.

Making his promotional debut at BKFC 3 will be Joe Riggs, who has a lengthy resume with the UFC and is the former WEC Middleweight Champion. Riggs will meet MMA veteran Brok Weaver. The card will also feature Christine Ferea versus Jennifer Tate in the first bare knuckle bout for both women.

Michael Dutchover!

Scores Another KO

Junior lightweight Michael Dutchover (11-0, 8 KOs) put on another impressive performance on Friday night, this time knocking out the bigger Bergman Aguilar (14-4-1, 4 KOs) in the fifth round of Thompson Boxing's "New Blood" main event.

Dutchover, 20, used controlled body punching to end Aguilar's night in the fifth round of a scheduled 8-round fight. The Midland, Texas native, who conducts training camp in Los Angeles, zeroed in on the body from the outset.

A pinpoint left hook to the body sent Aguilar to one knee in the fourth round. By the fifth, Dutchover had knockout on his mind.

"Once I started letting my hands go, that's when things started opening up," said Dutchover, who is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions. "In the third round I turned up the pace. By the fourth everything started to click. I rocked him with some body shots and got a knockdown. I knew he was getting tired. I knew my punches were wearing him out so I made the choice to take him out in the fifth."

Official stoppage time came at the 2:31 mark of the fifth round.

In the "New Blood" co-feature, Mario Hernandez (7-0-1, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. appeared to produce enough offense to win by decision over Ivan Gonzalez (4-1-2, 1 KO), but the judges saw it differently. Two judges scored the bout even at 57-57, while the third awarded it to Hernandez 58-56. The 6-round bout ended in a majority draw.

While some rounds were indeed close, Hernandez looked like the better fighter through most of the fight. He targeted the body with left hooks and would follow up with overhand rights. Hernandez was never hurt and he did manage to stun Gonzalez with his power punches on multiple occasions.

New Blood Undercard

Lightweight talent Ruben Torres (7-0, 6 KOs) of Los Angeles used his compact punching to thoroughly dismantle the shifty Eder Amaro (6-6, 2 KOs) of Mexico. Torres battered Amaro with strong combinations in route to a fourth round technical knockout. Amaro was unable to continue after the fourth round.

Torres did well to side-step Amaro's changing stances. He frequently switched from southpaw to orthodox, but in the end, it wasn't enough to frustrate Torres. Torres was too skilled for Amaro's gimmicks. He landed heavy shots and displayed superior defensive ability to solidify his blue-chip prospect status.

Junior middleweight Richard Brewart (2-0, 1 KO) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. looked polished beyond his years during his second round knockout of Houston's Edward Aceves (0-5).

Brewart attacked the body early and earned a first round knockdown by going to the midsection. The 20-year-old followed the same script to pay dirt in the second round.

He landed several hard body shots that pushed the still winless Aceves into a neutral corner. Aceves cringed after each punch, which prompted referee Edward Hernandez to step in and stop the bout at the 1:32 mark.

Junior welterweight David Ortiz (1-0) of Bloomington, Calif. made his professional debut a memorable one with a sweep of the scorecards over Mario Angeles (2-11-2) of San Diego. The 4-round fight featured some solid exchanges with Ortiz getting the best of Angeles.

"New Blood" was presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

George Groves!

This Will Be The Pinnacle Of My Career

WBA Super World Champion George Groves (28-3, 20 KOs) and Callum Smith (24-0, 17 KOs) are both appearing in confident moods in the Pre Fight Documentary for the hotly anticipated Ali Trophy Super Middleweight Final on Friday 28 September at the Indoor Sports Hall in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

“We are supremely confident,” says Groves in the Pre Fight Documentary.

“We are not underestimating him the slightest, but I believe I’ve seen enough of him to put together a winning formula.”

George Groves tells that taking home the Muhammad Ali Trophy in the inaugural season will eclipse everything he has achieved in his impressive career.

“This tournament, even a year on, has captured the public’s imagination. Everyone has got behind it, everyone is enjoying it, ” says Groves.

“It’s the first of it’s kind and will it grow to something way beyond what is now. Winning it will be the pinnacle of my career.”

The opponent, Callum Smith, is living the dream these days. The WBC Diamond belt holder has his first shot at a World title after being in mandatory positions over the last few years.

“Since the day I turned professional I’ve been dreaming about becoming world champion and I finally got that fight now,” says Smith.

“I’m excited, I’m enjoying coming to the gym, enjoying the sessions, it’s everything I ever wanted since turning pro. I know I will deliver. There is no bigger time to deliver than in the World Boxing Super Series Final against George Groves.”

On the line in Jeddah: The Muhammad Ali Trophy, the WBA Super World Championship, The WBC Diamond belt and the Ring Magazine belt. Only Joe Calzaghe and Andre Ward have ever held The Ring title at 168 lb.

DEONTAY WILDER V TYSON FURY!

SET FOR DECEMBER 1

WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder will defend his title against lineal champion Tyson Fury in a blockbuster matchup of undefeated heavyweights Saturday, December 1 live on pay-per-view.

The contracts have been signed and the promotional tour will kickoff in London on Oct. 1 and continue with stops in New York City and Los Angeles.

Wilder vs. Fury tests the raw power of Wilder against the unmatched size and mobility of Fury. America's only heavyweight champion since 2007, Wilder has 39 knockouts in 40 professional fights, including knockouts in all seven of his title defenses. Fury is a former IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight world champion who is undefeated in 27 professional fights and holds boxing's prestigious lineal heavyweight title.

More details on the location, venue and the on-sale ticket information for the heavyweight championship battle will be released next week.

Ruben Villa!

Headlines New Blood On Oct 13th

Featherweight standout Ruben Villa (13-0, 5 KOs) makes his fifth appearance of the year from his hometown of Salinas, Calif. when he headlines "New Blood" on Saturday, Oct. 13, from the Salinas Storm House.

Villa, 21, returns to his hometown for the second time since winning the vacant WBO Youth featherweight championship in April. In that bout, he handedly outpointed fellow prospect Marlon Olea for his first professional title.

The southpaw followed that performance with a knockout win over Ricardo Lopez in June and a unanimous decision win against Jose Santos Gonzalez in August.

"It's exciting to be back in my hometown," said Villa, who is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions. "All my friends and family are already asking for tickets. We sold out the last time we were here, and I think we'll do it again this time."

Also on the card, super lightweights Pedro Moreno (9-0, 5 KOs) and Max Becerra (15-2-2, 8 KOs) will be featured in separate bouts.

Tickets for "New Blood" are priced at $40, $75, & $125, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

The Salinas Storm House is located at 185 Maryal Drive in Salinas, CA 93907.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 6 p.m.

Joe Gallagher!

Both Have The Power To End The Fight With One Shot

Callum Smith’s coach Joe Gallagher expects his boxer to peak and shine in the Ali Trophy Super Middleweight Final against George Groves in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on September 28.

“On the night all will be unveiled,” said Joe Gallagher. “The thing with these two fighters; both have the power, both carry serious power. That’s what makes it exciting. One shot, that’s all it may take for this fight. I know everyone will say George is experienced, being there many times and Callum is the young kid coming through,” said Gallagher before adding:

“But in Callum’s pressure fights up to now, title fights, he has performed. There is something within Callum that comes out when his back’s against the wall.”

The experienced coach, voted Ring Magazine & UK boxing trainer of the year in 2015, talks with great respect of the opponent, George Groves, before the final in Saudi Arabia.

“I am a huge fan of George Groves,” said Joe Gallagher. “He is the boxers boxer, everyone likes him, what he has been through to get to where he is now. A mentally strong person, full praise and credit to him, I am a huge admirer of him and I have enjoyed watching his fights back studying for Callum Smith.”

The final on September 28 will be Groves’ third defence of his WBA Super World title, with all three fights involving British opponents – Jamie Cox, Chris Eubank Jr. and now Callum Smith.

Callum Smith booked his place in the final after defeating Sweden’s Erik Skoglund and Dutchman Nieky Holzken in the quarter-final and semi-final respectively. The WBC Diamond belt holder has his first shot at a World title after being in mandatory positions over the last few years, and like Groves, a unique chance to bring home the Muhammad Ali Trophy, The Greatest Prize in Boxing.

“This tournament, the World Boxing Super Series, is not like normal fights,” said Gallagher. “It’s like a World Cup, it’s like a Wimbledon. You don’t peak in your first fight, you don’t peak in your second fight. You have a game plan and a strategy to get through those fights and now we are in the final and this is where I expect Callum to peak and shine and I am sure George will as well so I am looking forward to a really good fight.”

Boxing fans in Jeddah and Saudi Arabia can buy tickets for the Final on Friday 28 September at the Indoor Sports Hall in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia via sauditickets.sa.

Fans in the UK can watch the George Groves vs Callum Smith Ali Trophy Super-Middleweight Final on Friday 28 September LIVE on ITV Box Office. Ringwalks for the final will be at 9.00 pm UK time.

Trio Of Undefeated Dominicans!

Sign With Sampson Boxing

Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of a trio of undefeated Dominican prospects to promotional contracts: featherweight Ranfis Javier Encarnacion, super featherweight Michael "La Salsa Michell" Rivera (14-0, 9 KOs), and super lightweight Starling "Exparquison" Castillo (6-0, 5 KOs).

Known worldwide as boxing's greatest at finding hidden talents, Lewkowicz says he's found a treasure trove to continue mining in the Dominican Republic. Having already discovered and guided the careers of recent Dominican-born world champion Javier Fortuna, Lewkowicz says he's got high hopes for all three of his young fighters.

"These are three more excellent prospects to come out of the Dominican," he said. "I am excited to sign them all and will be working to make them the next world champions from this great island nation."

Encarnacion (13-0, 10 KOs) was a heavily decorated amateur, Rivera already holds a stoppage victory over 2008 Olympic Silver Medallist Yanquiel Leon of Cuba. Castillo is the brother of Sampson Boxing's former IBF World Female Super Bantamweight Champion, Katy Wilson Castillo.

"All three fighters are eager to take the same path their countrymen took to the world championship and I am going to provide it for them," continued Lewkowicz. "Like I do with all my fighters, I am currently securing all of their P1 work visas, so they can fight in the United States starting in 2019."

Michael Dutchover!

Learning From WBA World Champion Danny Roman

Junior lightweight Michael Dutchover (10-0, 7 KOs) has been receiving a priceless education in the lead up to his main event showdown with Bergman Aguilar (14-3-1, 4 KOs) this Friday night from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Dutchover, 20, has been sparring with reigning WBA super bantamweight champion Danny Roman in Los Angeles. The unbeaten prospect dishes on his relationship with Roman, his new found culinary skills, and what the fans in attendance and on the LiveStream can expect from the surging prospect this Friday night.

Tickets for "New Blood" are priced at $40, $60, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

You were originally scheduled to face Luis Lopez, but he dropped out last week due to illness. The replacement fighter is Bergman Aguilar of Nicaragua. How do you stay focused on what you need to do to win?

"It's one of those things that happens in boxing, especially to young guys like myself. I don't let it affect me. I have a new guy in front of me. That's how I view it. He's in my way in what I want to accomplish, which is to win a world title. He's not going to stop me from getting to that point."

You've been sparring with WBA champion Danny Roman. What's it like to learn from one of the best?

"Every single time I spar with Danny I learn something new. He's a skillful fighter. A very smart boxer. I love working with him. I'm happy to have him in my corner. He helps me how to think through my punches. He talks to me after we spar and we go over things. It's great to learn from a world champion."

If boxing wasn't a career option for you, what would you get yourself into? We hear you're developing new culinary skills.

"I love everything related to fitness and nutrition. So I think I'd go the nutritionist route or study to become a physical trainer. I'm already learning a lot about nutrition. I cook my own meals. I do my own meal prep. I'm eating a lot of lean meats and vegetables and making them taste great. I get down in the kitchen. I'm learning how to cook on the fly and it's great. When I go back home to Midland [Texas] to cook for my family, they come away very impressed."

How do you expect to perform on Friday night?

"From when the first bell rings, I'm going to fight my fight. I'm not shooting for a knockout, but if it's there, I'll take it. I'm in peak shape right now. Come Friday, it's showtime."

Dutchover is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

Derrieck Cuevas V Silverio Ortiz!

Rumble At The Rock 2

The Heavyweight Factory’s latest promotional signing, undefeated welterweight power puncher Derrieck Cuevas, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, will face Mexican veteran Silverio Ortiz over 10 rounds on the undercard of “Rumble at the Rock 2,” the professional boxing event on Friday, Sept. 28 in the Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla.

A former decorated amateur, Cuevas (17-0-1, 14 KOs) has torn through his professional opposition thus far. Ortiz (37-22, 18 KOs) is a true spoiler, having faced a long list of world champions and undefeated fighters and taken a number of their “0’s.”

Presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, in the night’s 10-round main event, Honolulu, Hawaii’s undefeated Logan “The Korican Kid” Yoon (12-0, 10 KOs) will defend his WBO-NABO Youth Junior Welterweight Championship against John “El Emperador” Rentería (16-4-1, 12 KOs) of Panama.

In the night’s 10-round co-main event, Miami via Ekibastuz, Kazakhstan’s Mussa “Warrior” Tursyngaliyev (7-0, 6 KOs) will take on Monteira, Colombia’s Deivi “El Cabo” Bassa (20-5, 12 KOs) for the WBA International Featherweight Championship. In an “All Florida” bout, undefeated welterweight Livan “Machine Gun Kid” Navarro (8-0, 5 KOs), from Miami (via Cuba) will face once-beaten Armando “The Gentleman” Alvarez (18-1, 12 KOs) of Key West.

Tickets for “Rumble at the Rock 2” cost $60, $100, $150, $250 and $500 VIP and are available through ticketmaster.com.

Cuevas sat down for the following interview during a break in training:

How does it feel fighting in the USA mainland for the first time?

I am happy to be fighting here in Hollywood Florida with my new team. I’m in phenomenal shape and, come September 28, I plan on showing it big time.

What do you know about your opponent?

I know he’s a tough savvy Mexican veteran, but I will be prepared for anything he brings to the table. Mexico vs PR has always been a real draw when it comes to boxing and I invite all the Puerto Rican fans to come see me fight.

How long until we see you in a championship-level fight?

My promotional team at The Heavyweight Factory will take care of that for me. I have full faith in what my manager Alex Troya did when he brought me here. I’m working with my new trainer Jesse Robinson and within 18 months, I will hopefully be fighting for the world title. These people know what they’re doing and work hard for their fighters. I’m glad to be here.

Describe your style of fighting for the people who will be seeing you for the first time.

I don’t run away. I stand in the pocket and slip and make my opponents pay. I am working on power, explosivity and speed. That’s a dangerous combination. I can box. I can bang. I will get it on, how ever they want it. I want to be showman and a crowd pleaser.

How old were you when you realized you had above average punching power?

I must have been 13 and my coach at the time was telling others that I had pop in my punch. Then it just became part of my arsenal.

Would you ever consider an “All Puerto Rico” showdown with a fighter like Subriel Matias or Danielito Zorrilla?

Auntie and Daniel are my friends we spar often on the island. I have great respect for both guys, but once you step in the ring, it’s ‘go time’ no matter who it is.

Do you miss Puerto Rico when you train in the US?

I miss my family and my people but I’m a pro who is focused on getting to the top now and now is the time I will stay focused until I get to that big showdown for the title, coming soon to a theatre near you!

Mario Hernandez!

Boxing Career Shaped By Teenage Fatherhood

On Friday's "New Blood" co-feature, fast charging bantamweight Mario Hernandez (7-0, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. meets Ivan Gonzalez (4-1-1, 1 KO) of Mexico City, Mex. in what projects to be an all action fight set for 6-rounds.

The undefeated Hernandez is coming off an impressive, unanimous decision win over the previously unbeaten Jonah Flores in July.

Hernandez, 27, sat down with Thompson Boxing and talked about becoming a father at age 16, his full-time career at UC Irvine, and what fans can expect from him on Friday night.

Boxing runs in your family. Your dad and uncles boxed. Your dad had plans for you to get in the ring when you were in high school, but an unexpected development delayed that. Talk us through what happened.

"When I was 16, I got my girlfriend pregnant. She was 15 at the time and we were forced to grow up pretty quickly. I didn't really have time to go to the gym and learn how to box because of this new found responsibility. That part of my life was on pause. We were fortunate in that we had tremendous amount of help from both of our families. Without their support, things would have been a lot different and I might never have gotten the chance to box."

[Hernandez would later marry his girlfriend Stephanie and they would have another child. They have an 11-year-old girl and a boy who is four-years old].

By 21, you still had the itch to get inside the ring and pursue a career in boxing. How excited were you to launch this new chapter in your life?

"I was really pumped to finally do it. By then my daughter was nearly six and my wife Stephanie and I had already obtained our associates degrees from Santa Ana College so we were in a better place financially. It made sense to pursue the dream of being a pro boxer. I've loved the sport ever since I was little so I'm having a great time with it."

A lot of boxers that are just starting their careers supplement their boxing income by working full-time. You work in the parking and transportation department at UC Irvine. How do you manage two careers simultaneously?

"Working full-time adds a lot of structure to my life. I'm lucky that I work an early shift at UC Irvine. I come in at 6 a.m. and leave by 2:30 p.m. Once I'm done, I head straight to the gym [TKO Boxing] and I'm there from 3-6 p.m. It requires a lot of sacrifice on my part in that the hours that I'm at the gym I could be spending it with my family. That's really the toughest part, being away from your wife and kids."

On Friday night's opponent, Ivan Gonzalez.

"I try to focus on the game plan and do what I need to do to win. The plan is to put the pressure early. Start to the body early and break him down every round. I need to make him feel my punches. More than anything I love to put on a show for the fans. I want to keep them coming back. I'll never be in a boring fight. My style is too aggressive and I think fans respect that about me."

Tickets for "New Blood" are priced at $40, $60, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

Chris Eubank Jr V JJ McDonagh!

On The George Groves V Callum Smith Undercard

Ali Trophy Super-Middleweight Final reserve Chris Eubank Jr. faces JJ McDonagh over ten rounds on the George Groves vs Callum Smith undercard on 28 September at The Indoor Sports Hall at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Eubank Jr. (26-2, 20 KOs), who was defeated in a thrilling semi-final by Groves, will be on standby to enter the final in the unlikely scenario of one of the original participants being unable to compete.

“I have been training hard in Vegas, and I am looking be a part of the event in Jeddah,” said Eubank Jr. “I am preparing for any scenario that may present itself.”

Eubank Jr.’s opponent in Jeddah is Ireland’s powerful southpaw JJ McDonagh (16-4, 8 KOs).

"I'm surprised he did not retire after he embarrassed himself against groves," said McDonagh.

"Eubank is a fit man but he does not know how to fight hard, I’m a fighting man from a fighting family of generations of fighters. I am going to knock him out!"

McDonagh picked up the WBA International Light-Heavyweight title in 2016, as he defeated England’s Jake Ball and earned himself a KO of The Year contender, after a sensational first round stoppage.

Fans in the UK can watch the George Groves vs Callum Smith Ali Trophy Super-Middleweight Final fight night LIVE on ITV Box Office.

Abraham Nova!

Signs With Greg Cohen Promotion & 12 Round Promotions

Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP), Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Round Promotions are proud to announce the signing of undefeated super featherweight Abraham “El Super” Nova to a multi-year co-promotional contract.

Nova (12-0, 10 KOs), born in Puerto Rico and now residing in Albany, New York, has looked like a future champion while trotting the globe and winning all his fights. The 24-year-old was last seen in May, scoring a KO 7 over Italy’s Hassan Nourdine at the RTL Spiroudome in Charleroi, Belgium.

Before his 2016 debut, Nova had an incredible amateur career in which he went 167-11 with 60 KOs and was once the #1 ranked 141-lb. boxer in the United States. The prestigious titles he won include national and international victories at the 2014 USA Nationals, the 2014 Independent World Cup in the Dominican, and Gold at the 2014 Cheo Aponte Tournament, and the 2015 Olympic Qualifiers. He is also a five-time New York Golden Gloves Champion.

“I’m very happy I got to associate myself with people of such good quality,” said a happy Abraham of the deal. “I’m looking forward to winning a world title in the very near future!”

“This is a fantastic young fighter and I want to thank my partners, Ken Casey from Murphy’s Boxing and Alain Vanackère from 12 Round,” said Greg Cohen of GCP. “Abraham Nova is an extreme talent and will soon be a world champion. He’s also a pleasure to work with and I’m very happy to be involved.”

“Murphy’s Boxing have been lucky enough to work with Abraham Nova on several of his fights,” said Ken Casey of Murphy’s Boxing. “He is one of the classiest kids in boxing with an unmatched dedication. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that he is an amazing fighter with incredible credentials and some of the scariest power I have ever seen. We are thrilled to be co promoting Abraham.”

“It is a pleasure and an honor for me to be able to accompany a future world champion in his career,” said Alain Vanackère from 12 Round. “What an incredible opportunity to be able to live this unique experience with two esteemed promoters, GCP and Murphy's Boxing. I think we will have a lot of success and pleasure working together.”

Cohen says he’s not sure which 130-lb champion will be targeted (WBC: Miguel Berchelt, WBA: Gervonta Davis, IBF: Tevin Farmer and WBO: Masayuki Ito), but the plan is to move swiftly.

“We will immediately begin plans to put Abraham in against rated fighters and get him up the ladder as quickly as possible,” he said. “This young man has shown every indication he is ready for the next level of boxing. It’s a very exciting time to be in the Abraham Nova business.”

Terry Flanagan!

Wants To Give Prograis A Boxing Lesson

Terry Flanagan believes he can neutralise Regis Prograis’ strengths when they meet in an Ali Trophy Super-Lightweight Quarter-Final at the U.N.O. Lakefront Arena in New Orleans, USA on October 27.

“I cannot wait for this fight to begin,” said 29-year-old Flanagan. “New Orleans looks like a wonderful place but this is strictly business so hopefully I will be able to visit again after the fight to take in the attractions.”

Flanagan of Manchester, UK, a former WBO World Lightweight Champion, believes he can kickoff the 140 lb tournament in style coming back from a split decision World title defeat to Maurice Hooker in June.

“The fans can expect me back at my best and giving Prograis a boxing lesson,” said ‘Turbo’. “He looks like a very dangerous fighter and I like his style but he has not boxed anyone like me before.”

The World Boxing Super Series sees eight elite fighters in three different weight classes compete in a knockout style competition over several months, with quarter-finals, semi-finals and a final taking place until one man is left with the Muhammad Ali Trophy in his hands. This is as spectacular as it gets in boxing.

“I’m expecting some tough fights but that’s exactly what I’m in this business for,” said Flanagan.

“I see the fight against Prograis as 50/50 with us both having our own strengths, but I just think my assets stop his and therefore I win. I think what I bring to the table neutralise his strengths and that is the difference. I expect to get the credit I duly deserve after winning this fight.”

Tickets for Prograis vs Flanagan at the U.N.O. Lakefront Arena in New Orleans on October 27, start from $30 (plus fees) and are on sale now at TicketMaster.com.

Manuel Charr!

Vows To Knockout Fres Oquendo

On September 29th, WBA World Heavyweight Champion Manuel Charr defends his title against mandatory challenger Fres Oquendo at 16,000 seat LANXESS arena in Cologne, Germany. In the lead-up to the fight, "The Diamond Boy" hosted a media workout and looked to be in great shape.

"I feel very strong", says Charr. "I fought Ustinov only five months after hip replacement surgery. Now I am completely used to my new hips and I puch a lot harder than I used to. All my life I fought without really using hip rotation. I feel like a new fighter."

Charr’s strength and conditioning coach Chris Mohr confirmed that the 33-year-old heavyweight champion has more stamina and power than ever. "I have never seen him as strong, fast and focused", says Mohr. "We had a long time to get ready and you can tell that when you see him."

While Charr knows that he cannot underestimate Oquendo despite the fact that the Puerto Rican has not fought in four years. "Fres is very experienced and has always been a very slick fighter", says Charr. "Lots of people avoided him during his career because of his style. On the other hand, he is an old man and my home crowd in Cologne will push me above my limit. So I promise that I will knock him out and then have a great party with my fans."

It was Charr’s Manager Christian Jaeger and his promoter Bernd Trendelkamp who made sure that the fight ended up in Cologne. "I promised Manuel that we will give him the chance to fight at home. It took us a while but here we are", states Jaeger. "Negotiations were long and not always easy but I want to thank Fres Oquendo and his team for accepting the challenge and coming to Germany."

If "Diamond Boy" Charr can keep his word and beat Oquendo, he knows exactly what his next steps should look like. "Bring on Anthony Joshua!", says Charr. "He calls himself WBA Super Champion. I think it’s time to prove how Super he really is. I am the World Champion and I think we all agree that there should be only one Champion. So, AJ, if you beat Povektin and I beat Oquendo, we should find out who is the real WBA Champ."

But does Charr really believe that he has a chance against Joshua? "Of course", he says. "Wait until you see me in the ring and you will know that I can beat anybody now. After taking care of Joshua, I will go on to fight the winner of Fury vs. Wilder – and then retire as undisputed heavyweight champion of the World!"

The WBA Heavyweight Championship between Charr and Oquendo will take place at LANXESS arena in Cologne, Germany, and will be broadcasted live on Sky Pay-Per-View in Germany. Tickets starting at 45 Euros are available on koelnticket.de and eventim.de. For more information see charr-oquendo.com.

Michael Dutchover!

Returns One Week From Friday

After delivering a resounding one-punch, second round knockout in his last main event attraction, unbeaten junior lightweight standout Michael Dutchover (10-0, 7 KOs) returns to action one week from Friday in Thompson Boxing's "New Blood" 8-round main event.

The hard-hitting prospect out of Midland, Tex. will match wits against Nicaraguan Bergman Aguilar (14-3-1, 4 KOs) from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif. on Friday, Sept. 21 (8-rounds).

Two other top notch prospects fill out the top end of the card.

Bantamweight Mario Hernandez (7-0, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. meets Ivan Gonzalez (4-1-1, 1 KO) of Mexico City, Mex. in the 6-round co-feature, and unbeaten lightweight sensation Ruben Torres (6-0, 5 KOs) of Los Angeles hopes to continue his winning ways against Mexico's Eder Amaro (6-5, 2 KOs) in a fight also set for 6-rounds.

Tickets for "New Blood" are priced at $40, $60, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

Dutchover is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

LIVESTREAM INFO

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel, and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert, color commentary.

EVENT INFO

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 8:00 p.m. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave. in Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.

"New Blood" is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

DANNY GONZALEZ V JOHNNY HERNANDERZ!

ROCKIN' FIGHTS 32 UNDERCARD ANNOUNCED

The 32nd edition of Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing's "Rockin' Fights" pits two of The Paramount's most popular rising prospects against each other in a battle for the ABO INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE, when DANNY "EL GALLO" GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 16-1-1 7KO's) bids for his ninth win at The Paramount against, JOHNNY "HITMAN" HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 9-3 1KO), also seeking his ninth win in his hometown venue. Along with this much anticipated main event, Star Boxing announces an undercard of prospects with amateur accolade, that is sure to set the table for a great main event.

Returning to The Paramount almost one year to the date of his last bout at the venue, "ACTION" ANTHONY LAUREANO (East Hartford, CT 8-0 3KO's) will take on tough Texan, MARQUIS HAWTHORNE (5-8-1 1KO). Hawthorne poses a great test for Laureano, who was honored as the 2017 New England Boxing Prospect of the Year; as a taller fighter with great reach, Laureano will look to close the distance and score on the inside. Laureano looks to continue his rise in the 140 lb. weight class with another impressive outing on September 21st.

In a battle of the pro-debut's, JARED BONILLA (Belmore, NY Pro-Debut) will take on JOSE MAYSONET (Hartford, CT Pro-Debut) in a 4-round, super lightweight bout. Bonilla was a 2014 New York State Golden Gloves, 141 lb. novice class finalist. Over the past year, Bonilla has challenged himself by training and sparring with Star Boxing's rising star, Tyrone "Pretty Boy" James. Maysonet, traveling from Hartford, enters his pro-debut willing to leave everything in the ring to earn his first professional win.

23 year old, ALEX VARGAS (Bellport, NY Pro-Debut) will make his pro-debut at "Rockin' Fights 32". In 2013, at the age of 17, Vargas found himself under the bright lights of the Barclay's Center, where he won the New York Daily News Golden Gloves at the 165 lb. division. Vargas had this to say about is pro-debut, "I can't wait to get in the ring and show people what I can do." Vargas will step in with DERRON LAWSON (Philadelphia, PA 0-1) who returns to The Paramount coming off a majority decision loss at "Rockin' Fights". Vargas vs Lawson will be a 4-round welterweight bout.

SHAUN KENNEDY (Huntington, NY 0-0-1 ND) returns to his backyard at The Paramount to take on PEREZ AUGHTRY (Buffalo, NY Pro Debut) in a 4-round, cruiserweight scrap. After receiving a no decision in his first outing at The Paramount at "Rockin' Fights 29", in January, Kennedy returns with vengeance eyeing the first win of his pro career against Aughtry, who is seeking to put an end to Kennedy's homecoming with a win of his own.

CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the "Rockin' Fights" undercard, "we are very excited to have added Anthony Laureano to the Rockin' Fights undercard, as his last appearance at The Paramount demonstrated to boxing fans his exciting style and ability. Along with Laureano, we have thrilling hungry fighters on the undercard making their pro-debut's. Alex Vargas, and Jared Bonilla have impressive amateur accolades and talent that will be on full display at "Rockin' Fights". Tickets are extremely limited, so be sure to get them now."

Mateusz Masternak!

People Say This Is My Time, This Is My Moment

Poland’s Mateusz ‘Master’ Masternak gets huge support from fans in his home country before the Ali Trophy Cruiserweight Quarter-Final against Yunier Dorticos October 20 at the CFE Arena, Orlando, USA.

“I feel appreciated and honoured to be part of the World Boxing Super Series,” said Masternak. “It’s a big thing to be part of this group of eight great boxers. For me, this is a huge opportunity that I want to use.”

Mateusz Masternak, 31, from Wroclaw, Poland is a former EBU (European) Cruiserweight champion. His dangerous right hand and accurate hooks are known and respected by everyone in the division.

In 2014 he fought for the WBA Interim World Cruiserweight Championship and lost via split decision to DR Congo’s Youri Kayembre Kalenga. The defeat was exchanged to a TKO victory in round six after a dominating performance when the pair fought for WBO’s European title this year in April. Now Masternak eyes the chance to finally reach the highest top.

“Few people count on me in the world, but I believe that I will be able to win the tournament, although I know that a very difficult task is ahead of me because in this group of eight there are no weak fighters and everyone wants to win,” said Masternak.

“Polish fans are normally very divided when it comes to me. Some believe in me, others strongly criticize me and don’t give me a chance. But now, before this fight, I get a lot of nice and warm words and a lot of people say that now it’s my time, now it’s my moment to prove to the whole world that I can beat the best fighters out there.”

‘Master’ admits the challenge is big when he faces Season I sensation, Miami-based Cuban Yunier Dorticos, who is among the favorites to take home the Muhammad Ali Trophy in the upcoming season.

“Dorticos is a very good boxer, presenting a good Cuban boxing school, and he has a very strong punch. In Poland he is known and valued for his great fights in the first edition of the tournament, winning against Kudryashov and for his big heart in the fight against Gassiev,” said the Polish hardhitter.

“I believe I will beat Dorticos. I’m clever, I’m experienced ... and you'll see the rest in the ring because we have a very good plan.”

Nicholas Briggs!

Reformed, Reenergized, Ready To Fulfill His Dream

Promising super lightweight prospect Nicholas Briggs will make his long-awaited professional boxing debut Friday night at Twin River Casino Hotel at the age of 19.

That's not the unusual part. What sets Briggs apart from others is the road he took to get here, an unconventional path littered with poor choices, broken promises and a remarkable turnaround to keep him on the right track toward beginning the next great fighter to emerge from the famed city of Worcester.

Briggs faces fellow newcomer Jacob Wright of Decatur, Ala., on Sept. 14th, 2018, a little more than a year since the end of his second stint behind bars stemming from gun and drug charges in 2017.

As a teenager, Briggs wandered from the confines of the boxing gym and ran into trouble with the law -- trouble he blames only on himself -- before realizing he was dangerously close to wasting his God-given talent as a fighter. That same weekend he returned home, Briggs was back in the gym, slowly working his way back into shape, and now he's less than a week away from completing the ultimate comeback.

His inner circle is much smaller these days, but Briggs is happy, healthy and content with a new lease on life. At 19, he has his whole career ahead of him despite the fact he hasn't actually fought since 2014. With a new trainer and the region's No. 1 promoter in his corner, sky's the limit for one of Worcester's most decorated amateurs.

Briggs' four-round super lightweight bout against Wright is one of nine on a stacked fight card promoted by CES Boxing, which signed Briggs to a multi-year promotional agreement earlier this summer.

"Nobody is going to support my dream the way I have to because it's my dream," Briggs said. "What happened in the past, that's my past. My past built character. That's who I was, but this is who I am."

Backed by his late father, Briggs began boxing at the age of 7 and rose through the amateur ranks under the guidance of legendary Worcester trainer Carlos Garcia, working side-by-side with fellow CES Boxing stablemate Jamaine Ortiz. He won a Ringside Tournament in 2011 and advanced to the finals of the Junior Olympics Regionals three years in a row from 2012 to 2014.

Home life, he says, was "great." He grew up with both parents and five siblings (two older sisters, an older brother and a younger brother), but things changed when his father passed away in 2012, just two months before the first of his three consecutive appearances in the Junior Olympics.

"He was like the foundation of the family and he always made sure me and my brother were in school, he always made sure me and my brother were in the gym until nighttime. Every single day, sometimes training twice a day," Briggs recalled. "We had a gym in our garage.

"After he passed away, everyone was devastated. I started doing my own thing, trying to be in the gym, hanging with my friends. I stopped going to the gym for a couple months."

Only 13 at the time, Briggs got caught up in an entirely different lifestyle outside of the gym, lured by those he now knows never truly had his best interests in mind. Still, he kept winning in the ring, racking up amateur accolades and advancing to the Junior Olympic finals again in 2013 and 2014.

The third loss hit him particularly hard. He felt he had won the fight. That, he says, is when things unraveled. Several months later, at 15 years old, he got caught up in an armed robbery and spent nearly two years locked up. He even remembers the exact dates.

"July 4, 2014 until Feb. 17, 2016," Briggs said.

Upon returning home the first time, Briggs tried to clean up his act, but again wound up in trouble, this time arrested on gun, drug and assault charged after pulling a firearm on a man at a gas station in Worcester. The second stint cost Briggs another six months behind bars, which is when he finally realized he needed to wake up or wind up like everyone else in his predicament.

"I ended up thinking, 'Wow, I'm just like everyone else and I don't want to be like everyone else,'" Briggs said. "I didn't want to be like everyone else sitting in jail for life or dead, or a dope fiend asking people for money in the street. I didn't want that life. Boxing is my real, God-given talent, so that's what I'm going to pursue. It's going to get me somewhere."

After returning home late last year, Briggs reunited with trainer Jose Santos of 401 Boxing, who had actually worked his corner at the 2014 Junior Olympics. The two had a great rapport and Briggs trusted Santos' wisdom. Shortly thereafter, Santos brought Briggs to CES Boxing president Jimmy Burchfield Sr., who became enamored with Briggs' potential.

Briggs has grown tremendously in just under a year. He now lives in Rhode Island and trains full-time with Santos. He's also learned to accept his past for what it is. He doesn't point the finger at anyone else but himself for the choices he made, but realizes everything that happened is what makes him the man he is today.

"Everybody has choices," Briggs said. "I made my own choices and ended up getting into trouble."

These days, Briggs keeps to himself. The circle is much smaller than it used to be. You won't find him out on the town late at night or surrounding himself with large groups of people. If you're looking for him, check the gym. It's practically become his permanent residence as he prepares for Friday's debut. He hasn't missed a day yet.

"I just like to be around myself and train. I like to surround myself with positive people," he said. "I don't really want to hang around that type of environment, the streets, stuff like that. I just stay with people who uplift me. Back then, I was with a whole bunch of people who brought me down."

Win or lose, Briggs has already accomplished so much just by turning his life around and leaving behind the empty promises of street life that seem to lure so many teenagers down the wrong path. He understands many want him to succeed, but some may want to see him fail. He can't control that. All he can control is what he does when that bill rings Friday night.

"There are a lot of up-and-coming fighters from Worcester. It's hard to support when a lot of people don't want to see you do well," he said. "A lot of the people who come from the same place you did are just stuck and they don't want to support because they see that they're still stuck in that place.

"A lot of people don't like to show love. I don't understand why. It is what it is. I'm going to show love regardless."

Even though he's still only 19, there's an unspoken pressure on Briggs to prove all that amateur success was simply the foreword to what may become one of boxing's greatest success stories. Not everyone makes it, but don't bet against Briggs. Even fewer have made it this far.

"I've let too many things slip out of my hands." Briggs said. "I can't let this one slip out of my hands."

Tickets for Friday's event start at $47 and are available online at www.cesboxing.com, www.twinriver.com, www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 401-723-2253 or at the Twin River Casino Hotel Players Club. All fights and fighters subject to change.

Rumble At The Rock 2!

Adds Two More Fights

More exciting bouts have been announced for “Rumble at the Rock 2,” professional boxing event, presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, taking place on Friday, Sept. 28 in the Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla.

In the night’s 10-round co-main event, Miami via Ekibastuz, Kazakhstan’s Mussa “Warrior” Tursyngaliyev (7-0, 6 KOs) will now take on Monteira, Colombia’s Deivi “El Cabo” Bassa (20-5, 12 KOs) over 10 rounds for the WBA International Featherweight Championship.

In an important “All Florida” bout, promising undefeated welterweight Livan “Machine Gun Kid” Navarro (8-0, 5 KOs), a former heavily decorated amateur from Miami (via Cuba) will face once-beaten former WBC Latino Welterweight Champion Armando “The Gentleman” Alvarez (18-1, 12 KOs) of Key West.

Both of these terrific showdowns are in support of the night’s 10-round main event with Honolulu, Hawaii’s undefeated Logan “The Korican Kid” Yoon (12-0, 10 KOs) defending his WBO-NABO Youth Junior Welterweight Championship against former WBA Fedecentro Super Lightweight, WBA Fedecaribe Welterweight and WBA Fedecentro Welterweight Champion John “El Emperador” Rentería (16-4-1, 12 KOs) of Panama.

Tickets for “Rumble at the Rock 2” cost $60, $100, $150, $250 and $500 VIP and are available through ticketmaster.com.

“These three fights are indicative of the quality match-ups we are able to consistently present to South Florida boxing fans,” said Henry Rivalta, Director of Boxing Operations of The Heavyweight Factory. “Mussa is in against a very tough veteran for his second professional title and Livan Navarro has asked us to challenge him. You have to commend him for being willing to take tough challenges and that’s exactly what Armando Alvarez is. They are both very good fighters, and this should be a great fight.”

A treasure for Florida’s fans of live boxing, Heavyweight Factory’s fights at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino have become the nation’s strongest off-TV boxing series. On fight night, doors open at 6 p.m. and the action starts at 7 p.m. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Fla. More exciting bouts will be announced shortly.

Victor Reynoso!

Humble Upbringing Leads To Boxing

Growing up in the Olneyville section of Providence, Victor Reynoso saw it all from drug addicts on the streets to homeless people begging for change along his bus route to school.

The conditions weren't always ideal -- Reynoso lived with his mother and two siblings in low-income housing -- but they prepared him for life as he knows it, a life where Reynoso has had to earn every penny the hard way, battling through adversity to live out his dreams in the boxing ring.

On Friday night at Twin River Casino Hotel, Reynoso makes his long-awaited professional debut against Maurilio Alava of Ecuador on the undercard of CES Boxing's latest installment of the 2018 Twin River Fight Series.

The 24-year-old native of the Dominican Republic fought on and off as an amateur as he balanced boxing with his full-time job as a therapeutic safety technician, but is finally ready to make the leap after one final tour through the amateur circuit this past summer.

Outside the ring, Reynoso works at Bridgewater State Hospital, a facility housing the criminally insane, in a role he more or less describes as being a correctional officer. He's put school on hold, temporarily leaving Rhode Island College to continue the chase in boxing, and will do whatever it takes to be the best 154-pounder in the world, a tireless pursuit that takes on a new meaning Friday.

"I understand school is something I could always finish later on. Boxing, you can't box later on. This is right now," Reynoso said.

"If I want to chase my dream, I've really got to do it now, while I can, not later. It won't be an option later. I don't want to