Report: Ryan Garcia tests positive for banned susbtance! |
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According to ESPN, Ryan Garcia tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance called Ostarine at the time of his upset win over Devin Haney in April. The testing for the fight was administered by VADA, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association. Only the A-sample has been tested, so the finding is not considered final until either the B-sample has also been tested or Garcia declines to have the B-sample tested. The most disturbing aspect of the news is that Garcia dished out severe and possibly permament punishment to Haney, who was knoked down three times and absorbed many hard punches to the head over the course of twelve rounds against the apparently enhanced Garcia.
In response to the news, Garcia posted an immature video on line saying, "Everybody knows that I don't cheat. What can I say? Why didn't they come out with this before the fight if they found it before the fight? Why would they let me step in the ring as a cheater and then come out with the victory and then they post this? Again, these are people that are trying to attack me for whatever reason. No weapon against me shall prosper. I've never taken steroids. I don't even know where to get steroids at the end of the day. I barely take supplements... Everybody go [party at] Warwick tonight, its lit!"
Garcia also missed weight by over three pounds for what was supposed to be a junior welterweight (140-pound) title fight. Because Garcia was overweight, Haney retained the title despite the loss.
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Report: Ryan Garcia tests positive for banned susbtance!
According to ESPN, Ryan Garcia tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance called Ostarine at the time of his upset win over Devin Haney in April. The testing for the fight was administered by VADA, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association. Only the A-sample has been tested, so the finding is not considered final until either the B-sample has also been tested or Garcia declines to have the B-sample tested. The most disturbing aspect of the news is that Garcia dished out severe and possibly permament punishment to Haney, who was knoked down three times and absorbed many hard punches to the head over the course of twelve rounds against the apparently enhanced Garcia.
In response to the news, Garcia posted an immature video on line saying, "Everybody knows that I don't cheat. What can I say? Why didn't they come out with this before the fight if they found it before the fight? Why would they let me step in the ring as a cheater and then come out with the victory and then they post this? Again, these are people that are trying to attack me for whatever reason. No weapon against me shall prosper. I've never taken steroids. I don't even know where to get steroids at the end of the day. I barely take supplements... Everybody go [party at] Warwick tonight, its lit!"
Garcia also missed weight by over three pounds for what was supposed to be a junior welterweight (140-pound) title fight. Because Garcia was overweight, Haney retained the title despite the loss.
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Inoue to highlight four-title fight card on Monday morning |
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Top Rank Boxing and ESPN will air a four-world title fight show from Tokyo, live on Monday, May 6th at a special early start time of 4 a.m. ET/ 1 a.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Tokyo Dome. In the main event, undisputed world junior featherweight champion Naoya “The Monster” Inoue will defend all the belts against former two-division champ Luis “Pantera” Nery of Mexico. Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) won his first world title in April 2014 and has been flawless ever since. He sports an astounding 21-0 record in world title fights, including 19 knockouts. He was named 2023 Fighter of the Year by ESPN.com and Ring Magazine and makes his 2024 debut intent on solidifying his stranglehold over the division.
Nery (35-1, 27 KOs) won the WBC title at both bantamweight and junior featherweight. Since his loss to Brandon Figueroa in 2021, he has won four straight fights, including an eleventh-round knockout over Azat Hovhannisyan in one of last year’s most intense matches.
In the co-feature, Australia’s WBO bantamweight champion, Jason “Mayhem” Moloney (27-2, 19 KOs) will defend his belt against rising knockout artist and former kickboxing world champion Yoshiki Takei (8-0, 8 KOs).
The world title quadruple-header also features WBA bantamweight champion Takuma Inoue (19-1, 5 KOs), younger brother of Naoya, who defends his title against Sho Ishida (34-3, 17 KOs).
And, in a flyweight world title tilt, newly minted WBA world champion Seigo Yuri Akui (19-2-1, 11 KOs) battles Taku Kuwahara (13-1, 8 KOs) in a rematch of their 2021 encounter, which Akui won by tenth-round TKO.
Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore and Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr.
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Inoue to highlight four-title fight card on Monday morning
Top Rank Boxing and ESPN will air a four-world title fight show from Tokyo, live on Monday, May 6th at a special early start time of 4 a.m. ET/ 1 a.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Tokyo Dome. In the main event, undisputed world junior featherweight champion Naoya “The Monster” Inoue will defend all the belts against former two-division champ Luis “Pantera” Nery of Mexico. Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) won his first world title in April 2014 and has been flawless ever since. He sports an astounding 21-0 record in world title fights, including 19 knockouts. He was named 2023 Fighter of the Year by ESPN.com and Ring Magazine and makes his 2024 debut intent on solidifying his stranglehold over the division.
Nery (35-1, 27 KOs) won the WBC title at both bantamweight and junior featherweight. Since his loss to Brandon Figueroa in 2021, he has won four straight fights, including an eleventh-round knockout over Azat Hovhannisyan in one of last year’s most intense matches.
In the co-feature, Australia’s WBO bantamweight champion, Jason “Mayhem” Moloney (27-2, 19 KOs) will defend his belt against rising knockout artist and former kickboxing world champion Yoshiki Takei (8-0, 8 KOs).
The world title quadruple-header also features WBA bantamweight champion Takuma Inoue (19-1, 5 KOs), younger brother of Naoya, who defends his title against Sho Ishida (34-3, 17 KOs).
And, in a flyweight world title tilt, newly minted WBA world champion Seigo Yuri Akui (19-2-1, 11 KOs) battles Taku Kuwahara (13-1, 8 KOs) in a rematch of their 2021 encounter, which Akui won by tenth-round TKO.
Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore and Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr.
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Spotlight on Figueroa vs. Magdaleno |
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Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (pictured, 24-1-1, 18 KOs) will be returning on May 4th, following a 14-month layoff, to make the first defense of his WBC interim featherweight title at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas against former 122-pound title holder Jessie Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs). Both Figueroa and Magdaleno come from boxing families. Brandon’s older brother, Omar, held the WBC lightweight title and Jessie’s older brother, Diego, was a two-time title challenger.
Figueroa, of Weslaco, TX, was the unified WBC/WBC super bantamweight world champion before losing via majority decision against Stephen Fulton in one of the best fights of 2021. He has since moved up to featherweight earning two victories, with the most recent coming on March 4, 2023. On that date, Figueroa unanimously outpointed former champion Mark Magsayo to claim his interim WBC status. It was a bloody affair that saw Figueroa sustain cuts over both eyes. “My style is very unique and there’s a reason why I switch stances so much. There’s a method to the madness. People think I just come forward and punch, but there’s a meticulousness to that. I want to confuse my opponent and not give him the same look. I’m a multi-dimensional fighter and that’s why I’m so dangerous,” said Figueroa, who has been training in Las Vegas for this contest.
“You have to get out of your comfort zone and I’m out here in Las Vegas away from family and home. I miss my people back home, but I have to do what I have to do. The level of sparring and training here is insane, and that’s what I’m about. I put in the hard work to get results. I can’t wait to put it all together.
Magdaleno, of Henderson, NV, will be ending an extended layoff himself, having last fought in April 2023, losing on points to Raymond Ford, now the WBA featherweight titleholder. In 2016, Magdaleno, a southpaw, defeated Nonito Donaire for the WBO super bantamweight title, making one defense before getting knocked out by Isaac Dogboe. It was after losing his world title that Magdaleno moved up to featherweight, racking up four wins before meeting Ford. “I learned that I have to use my experience in the ring. We learn from our losses,” said Magdaleno, who is trained by Jorge Capetillo. “I always take them as a learning experience. Ultimately it led me to this fight here on May 4th. I took this fight because he’s got the perfect style for what I bring to the ring. It’s definitely going to be an action-packed fight. I like to pick my shots and create openings. Figueroa is an aggressive fighter who comes forward, so it won’t be hard to find him. I just have to stick to my game plan and be smart in there. I plan on taking advantage of whatever stance he uses in the ring. I have to hit him when I get him square. I have to take advantage of my opportunities and that’s what we’ve been working on.”
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Spotlight on Figueroa vs. Magdaleno
Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (pictured, 24-1-1, 18 KOs) will be returning on May 4th, following a 14-month layoff, to make the first defense of his WBC interim featherweight title at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas against former 122-pound title holder Jessie Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs). Both Figueroa and Magdaleno come from boxing families. Brandon’s older brother, Omar, held the WBC lightweight title and Jessie’s older brother, Diego, was a two-time title challenger.
Figueroa, of Weslaco, TX, was the unified WBC/WBC super bantamweight world champion before losing via majority decision against Stephen Fulton in one of the best fights of 2021. He has since moved up to featherweight earning two victories, with the most recent coming on March 4, 2023. On that date, Figueroa unanimously outpointed former champion Mark Magsayo to claim his interim WBC status. It was a bloody affair that saw Figueroa sustain cuts over both eyes. “My style is very unique and there’s a reason why I switch stances so much. There’s a method to the madness. People think I just come forward and punch, but there’s a meticulousness to that. I want to confuse my opponent and not give him the same look. I’m a multi-dimensional fighter and that’s why I’m so dangerous,” said Figueroa, who has been training in Las Vegas for this contest.
“You have to get out of your comfort zone and I’m out here in Las Vegas away from family and home. I miss my people back home, but I have to do what I have to do. The level of sparring and training here is insane, and that’s what I’m about. I put in the hard work to get results. I can’t wait to put it all together.
Magdaleno, of Henderson, NV, will be ending an extended layoff himself, having last fought in April 2023, losing on points to Raymond Ford, now the WBA featherweight titleholder. In 2016, Magdaleno, a southpaw, defeated Nonito Donaire for the WBO super bantamweight title, making one defense before getting knocked out by Isaac Dogboe. It was after losing his world title that Magdaleno moved up to featherweight, racking up four wins before meeting Ford. “I learned that I have to use my experience in the ring. We learn from our losses,” said Magdaleno, who is trained by Jorge Capetillo. “I always take them as a learning experience. Ultimately it led me to this fight here on May 4th. I took this fight because he’s got the perfect style for what I bring to the ring. It’s definitely going to be an action-packed fight. I like to pick my shots and create openings. Figueroa is an aggressive fighter who comes forward, so it won’t be hard to find him. I just have to stick to my game plan and be smart in there. I plan on taking advantage of whatever stance he uses in the ring. I have to hit him when I get him square. I have to take advantage of my opportunities and that’s what we’ve been working on.”
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Jesus Ramos Jr. looking to bounce back after bad-decision loss |
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Junior middleweight Jesus “El Mono” Ramos Jr. (20-1, 16 KOs) will take on Venezuelan knockout artist Johan “The Chelo Manotas” Gonzalez (34-2, 33 KOs) in a ten-round bout in Las Vegas on Saturday as part of PBC's big Saul "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia world super middleweight championship show. Ramos, of Casa Grande, Arizona owns quality wins against Brian Mendoza, Luke Santamaria, and Joey Spencer. But he will return to the ring seven months after suffering a dubious defeat against Erickson Lubin in a WBC/WBA world title eliminator. Despite getting outlanded in a terribly uneventful fight, Lubin was awarded a unanimous decision with very controversial scorecards. The southpaw Ramos applied pressure and initiated most of the exchanges with power punches, while Lubin was content to jab and fight on the backfoot.
“I don’t think it was my best night, but I still felt like I did enough to pull it off,” said Ramos, of the loss to Lubin. “Obviously, it wasn’t my best performance and I’m aware of that, but I felt like it was enough to win. I was the one in control the whole fight, pushing him back, landing more punches. Some of the rounds that I felt I did the most effective work; they gave it to him. I was disappointed obviously, but I’m going to show in this fight that it was just a bump in the road. The journey continues and I’m not going to stop until I’m a world champion.”
Gonzalez, now based out of Las Vegas and trained by Ismael Salas, made his US debut last year, with back-to-back wins in Plant City, Florida. He has won three straight since losing on points in Russia in December 2022 against Magomed Kurbanov. Gonzalez, who has 18 first-round knockouts, has only reached the sixth round three times in his professional career. In his last fight, Gonzalez struggled to earn a ten-round majority decision victory against Guido Schramm on November 15th.
Expecting a competitive fight from Gonzalez, Ramos said, “I know he hits hard. He has 33 knockouts in his 34 wins, so he has some pop. I know he’s going to come forward and he’s going to try to pressure me. I expect that. I expect a fun fight while it lasts. We both have power, so don’t expect it to go the distance.”
The popular 21-year-old Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. (17-1, 12 KOs), of Roseland, NJ, will defend his WBA Continental Americas title against Ronald “Diablo” Cruz (19-3-1, 12 KOs), of North Hollywood, CA, in a 10-round contest.
Rated #4 by the WBA, Mielnicki Jr. has picked up nine wins, with seven by knockout, since his lone defeat by majority decision in 2021. Before his 2019 pro debut, Mielnicki Jr. was a touted amateur, having compiled a 147-22 record. He was a four-time Junior National Golden Gloves champion, a two-time Silver Gloves National champion, a two-time Ringside World champion, and a two-time US Junior National Champion.
After going the distance against tough contenders Damian Sosa and Xavier Zayas, Cruz, a former WBC Latino titlist, traveled to El Salvador to pick up his first win since 2021, earning a unanimous seven-round decision versus Jose Aguirre in December.
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Jesus Ramos Jr. looking to bounce back after bad-decision loss
Junior middleweight Jesus “El Mono” Ramos Jr. (20-1, 16 KOs) will take on Venezuelan knockout artist Johan “The Chelo Manotas” Gonzalez (34-2, 33 KOs) in a ten-round bout in Las Vegas on Saturday as part of PBC's big Saul "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia world super middleweight championship show. Ramos, of Casa Grande, Arizona owns quality wins against Brian Mendoza, Luke Santamaria, and Joey Spencer. But he will return to the ring seven months after suffering a dubious defeat against Erickson Lubin in a WBC/WBA world title eliminator. Despite getting outlanded in a terribly uneventful fight, Lubin was awarded a unanimous decision with very controversial scorecards. The southpaw Ramos applied pressure and initiated most of the exchanges with power punches, while Lubin was content to jab and fight on the backfoot.
“I don’t think it was my best night, but I still felt like I did enough to pull it off,” said Ramos, of the loss to Lubin. “Obviously, it wasn’t my best performance and I’m aware of that, but I felt like it was enough to win. I was the one in control the whole fight, pushing him back, landing more punches. Some of the rounds that I felt I did the most effective work; they gave it to him. I was disappointed obviously, but I’m going to show in this fight that it was just a bump in the road. The journey continues and I’m not going to stop until I’m a world champion.”
Gonzalez, now based out of Las Vegas and trained by Ismael Salas, made his US debut last year, with back-to-back wins in Plant City, Florida. He has won three straight since losing on points in Russia in December 2022 against Magomed Kurbanov. Gonzalez, who has 18 first-round knockouts, has only reached the sixth round three times in his professional career. In his last fight, Gonzalez struggled to earn a ten-round majority decision victory against Guido Schramm on November 15th.
Expecting a competitive fight from Gonzalez, Ramos said, “I know he hits hard. He has 33 knockouts in his 34 wins, so he has some pop. I know he’s going to come forward and he’s going to try to pressure me. I expect that. I expect a fun fight while it lasts. We both have power, so don’t expect it to go the distance.”
The popular 21-year-old Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. (17-1, 12 KOs), of Roseland, NJ, will defend his WBA Continental Americas title against Ronald “Diablo” Cruz (19-3-1, 12 KOs), of North Hollywood, CA, in a 10-round contest.
Rated #4 by the WBA, Mielnicki Jr. has picked up nine wins, with seven by knockout, since his lone defeat by majority decision in 2021. Before his 2019 pro debut, Mielnicki Jr. was a touted amateur, having compiled a 147-22 record. He was a four-time Junior National Golden Gloves champion, a two-time Silver Gloves National champion, a two-time Ringside World champion, and a two-time US Junior National Champion.
After going the distance against tough contenders Damian Sosa and Xavier Zayas, Cruz, a former WBC Latino titlist, traveled to El Salvador to pick up his first win since 2021, earning a unanimous seven-round decision versus Jose Aguirre in December.
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Top Rank library to stream on Pluto TV |
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Top Rank and Pluto TV, a free streaming television service, are launching Top Rank Classics, a 24/7 channel dedicated to the showcasing the sport’s greatest fights and fighters. Top Rank Classics premieres on Pluto TV on May 1st, and features hundreds of old school throwdowns and new school favorites from the Top Rank archive dating back more than 50 years. From legends like Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler and Mike Tyson, to modern-era standouts Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury, Top Rank Classics offers fight fans an in-depth look at the sport’s most memorable showdowns. Top Rank Classics will also be available with the original Spanish-language broadcasts.
“Top Rank has a rich and carefully curated fight library, and we are proud to partner with Pluto TV to create a unique 24/7 boxing channel,” said Brian Kelly, Top Rank’s Chief Revenue Officer. “We are always seeking innovative ways to connect with our loyal fans, and this partnership allows Top Rank to broaden the reach and availability of these timeless events and the fighters that made them possible.”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Top Rank and bring their heavy-hitting fight library to our service,” said Kevin Sullivan, VP Content Partnerships, Pluto TV. “Having Top Rank in our corner delivers on our commitment to providing viewers with diverse and engaging content, including an unmatched sports offering. By joining forces and giving fans a ringside seat, we can create an unparalleled viewing experience and expand the accessibility of these iconic events and the incredible athletes who defined them.”
Top Rank Classics debuts with three months of programming, including Mayweather’s tour de forces over Diego Corrales and Arturo Gatti, Fury’s pair of brutal knockouts over Deontay Wilder, Roberto Duran’s 1980 welterweight title-winning effort over Sugar Ray Leonard, and Leonard’s stunning 1987 decision over middleweight legend Hagler. The fight lineup will be updated to be contextually relevant to Top Rank’s current star-studded roster, a who’s who of uber-talents that include Shakur Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Naoya Inoue, Teofimo Lopez, and Emanuel Navarrete.
Audiences can access the Top Rank Classics channel for free on Pluto TV within the Sports category. Pluto TV is available anywhere content is streamed – across all major mobile, CTV and web devices. For more information about Pluto TV, go to pluto.tv.
About Top Rank: Innovation has been the standard at Top Rank since it was established in 1973 by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. The boxing industry’s leading promotional company, Top Rank has shaped, developed, and promoted the careers of top international pay-per-view superstars and Hall of Famers, including Muhammad Ali, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury.
About Pluto TV: Pluto TV, a Paramount Company, is a free streaming television service delivering hundreds of live linear channels and thousands of titles on-demand to a global audience. The Emmy award-winning service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed and streamed across mobile, web and connected TV devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Pluto TV’s growing international footprint extends across four continents and over 35 markets.
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Top Rank library to stream on Pluto TV
Top Rank and Pluto TV, a free streaming television service, are launching Top Rank Classics, a 24/7 channel dedicated to the showcasing the sport’s greatest fights and fighters. Top Rank Classics premieres on Pluto TV on May 1st, and features hundreds of old school throwdowns and new school favorites from the Top Rank archive dating back more than 50 years. From legends like Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler and Mike Tyson, to modern-era standouts Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury, Top Rank Classics offers fight fans an in-depth look at the sport’s most memorable showdowns. Top Rank Classics will also be available with the original Spanish-language broadcasts.
“Top Rank has a rich and carefully curated fight library, and we are proud to partner with Pluto TV to create a unique 24/7 boxing channel,” said Brian Kelly, Top Rank’s Chief Revenue Officer. “We are always seeking innovative ways to connect with our loyal fans, and this partnership allows Top Rank to broaden the reach and availability of these timeless events and the fighters that made them possible.”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Top Rank and bring their heavy-hitting fight library to our service,” said Kevin Sullivan, VP Content Partnerships, Pluto TV. “Having Top Rank in our corner delivers on our commitment to providing viewers with diverse and engaging content, including an unmatched sports offering. By joining forces and giving fans a ringside seat, we can create an unparalleled viewing experience and expand the accessibility of these iconic events and the incredible athletes who defined them.”
Top Rank Classics debuts with three months of programming, including Mayweather’s tour de forces over Diego Corrales and Arturo Gatti, Fury’s pair of brutal knockouts over Deontay Wilder, Roberto Duran’s 1980 welterweight title-winning effort over Sugar Ray Leonard, and Leonard’s stunning 1987 decision over middleweight legend Hagler. The fight lineup will be updated to be contextually relevant to Top Rank’s current star-studded roster, a who’s who of uber-talents that include Shakur Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Naoya Inoue, Teofimo Lopez, and Emanuel Navarrete.
Audiences can access the Top Rank Classics channel for free on Pluto TV within the Sports category. Pluto TV is available anywhere content is streamed – across all major mobile, CTV and web devices. For more information about Pluto TV, go to pluto.tv.
About Top Rank: Innovation has been the standard at Top Rank since it was established in 1973 by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. The boxing industry’s leading promotional company, Top Rank has shaped, developed, and promoted the careers of top international pay-per-view superstars and Hall of Famers, including Muhammad Ali, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury.
About Pluto TV: Pluto TV, a Paramount Company, is a free streaming television service delivering hundreds of live linear channels and thousands of titles on-demand to a global audience. The Emmy award-winning service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed and streamed across mobile, web and connected TV devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Pluto TV’s growing international footprint extends across four continents and over 35 markets.
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Barrios vs. Maidana has world title implications |
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Mario “El Azteca” Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs), of San Antonio, Texas, will make the first defense of his interim WBC welterweight title on the undercard of Saul "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia this Saturday at T-Mobile Arena, in Las Vegas. The WBC welterweight champion is presently [treu wolrd welterweight champion] Terence Crawford, who captured the title from Errol Spence last July. Crawford, however, plans to challenge for the WBA and WBO interim world titles at junir middleweight in August. Following back-to-back losses to Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, Barrios rebounded with two victories last year against Jovanie Santiago and former WBA champion Yordenis Ugas. On May 4th, he will face off against Argentinean Fabian “TNT” Maidana, of Buenos Aires. Coming from a boxing family, Fabian (22-2, 16 KOs) is the younger brother of former champion Marcos Maidana. Fabian has won four straight in Argentina since his last defeat in December 2022.
If Crawford decides to remain at 154 pounds, the WBC will likely elevate the Barrios-Maidana victor to its full champion.
“I plan to accomplish as much as I can at 147 pounds. This is where I feel comfortable and strong and I’m going to try to stay here as long as I can,” said the six-foot-tall Barrios, who began his career as a junior featherweight. Las Vegas is the best place for training camp. I get the best work here. I have quality sparring at all times and it’s really beneficial. Camp has been great and I’m really ready for it to be over,” continued Barrios, who is trained by Bob Santos. "We’ve had a long camp and I’m excited for a big opportunity on a big Mexican card. I’m honored to be a part of it and I’m looking forward to giving the fans a great fight.
Speaking of his opponent, Barrios remarked, “We know he’s coming from the Maidana fighting family, so we know he’s coming with it. He’s trying to step out from his brother’s shadow and I just have to make sure I’m on top of everything. I have no doubt that we’ll come out victorious if I fight my fight.”
Maidana is familiar with Barrios as well, having fought on several cards together. “I know Mario Barrios and I’m not worried about his height,” he said. “We’re going to give the fans a great fight and all I’m worried about is walking away with that belt. It’s very exciting to be fighting on this card with Canelo,” said Maidana. “It’s very motivating knowing that he’s watching. I’m ready to put on a show for everyone supporting me. I’m very happy to be in this position and I can’t wait to step into the ring in Las Vegas.”
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Barrios vs. Maidana has world title implications
Mario “El Azteca” Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs), of San Antonio, Texas, will make the first defense of his interim WBC welterweight title on the undercard of Saul "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia this Saturday at T-Mobile Arena, in Las Vegas. The WBC welterweight champion is presently [treu wolrd welterweight champion] Terence Crawford, who captured the title from Errol Spence last July. Crawford, however, plans to challenge for the WBA and WBO interim world titles at junir middleweight in August. Following back-to-back losses to Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, Barrios rebounded with two victories last year against Jovanie Santiago and former WBA champion Yordenis Ugas. On May 4th, he will face off against Argentinean Fabian “TNT” Maidana, of Buenos Aires. Coming from a boxing family, Fabian (22-2, 16 KOs) is the younger brother of former champion Marcos Maidana. Fabian has won four straight in Argentina since his last defeat in December 2022.
If Crawford decides to remain at 154 pounds, the WBC will likely elevate the Barrios-Maidana victor to its full champion.
“I plan to accomplish as much as I can at 147 pounds. This is where I feel comfortable and strong and I’m going to try to stay here as long as I can,” said the six-foot-tall Barrios, who began his career as a junior featherweight. Las Vegas is the best place for training camp. I get the best work here. I have quality sparring at all times and it’s really beneficial. Camp has been great and I’m really ready for it to be over,” continued Barrios, who is trained by Bob Santos. "We’ve had a long camp and I’m excited for a big opportunity on a big Mexican card. I’m honored to be a part of it and I’m looking forward to giving the fans a great fight.
Speaking of his opponent, Barrios remarked, “We know he’s coming from the Maidana fighting family, so we know he’s coming with it. He’s trying to step out from his brother’s shadow and I just have to make sure I’m on top of everything. I have no doubt that we’ll come out victorious if I fight my fight.”
Maidana is familiar with Barrios as well, having fought on several cards together. “I know Mario Barrios and I’m not worried about his height,” he said. “We’re going to give the fans a great fight and all I’m worried about is walking away with that belt. It’s very exciting to be fighting on this card with Canelo,” said Maidana. “It’s very motivating knowing that he’s watching. I’m ready to put on a show for everyone supporting me. I’m very happy to be in this position and I can’t wait to step into the ring in Las Vegas.”
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Alaniz avenges loss to become a three-belt champ |
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Gabriela Alaniz W10 Marlen Esparza ... In a very close fight that took place last weekend at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California, Argentina's Gabriela “La Chucky” Alaniz became the new WBO, WBC and WBA flyweight champion, defeating Marlen Esparza of the United States by split decision. This was a rematch, with the first fight being won by Esparza last July via majority decision. Like their first battle, there were ten rounds full of action. On this occasion, Alaniz landed the best punches and emerged win a split decision win, overcoming a 98-92 card in Esparza's favor with tallies of 97-93 and 96-94. Alaniz is now a two-time champion with a 15-1 record, but this time holds three of the four major titles. Esparza left the ring with a record of 14-2, with 1 knockout.
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Alaniz avenges loss to become a three-belt champ
Gabriela Alaniz W10 Marlen Esparza ... In a very close fight that took place last weekend at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California, Argentina's Gabriela “La Chucky” Alaniz became the new WBO, WBC and WBA flyweight champion, defeating Marlen Esparza of the United States by split decision. This was a rematch, with the first fight being won by Esparza last July via majority decision. Like their first battle, there were ten rounds full of action. On this occasion, Alaniz landed the best punches and emerged win a split decision win, overcoming a 98-92 card in Esparza's favor with tallies of 97-93 and 96-94. Alaniz is now a two-time champion with a 15-1 record, but this time holds three of the four major titles. Esparza left the ring with a record of 14-2, with 1 knockout.
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Spotlight on Stanionis vs. Maestre |
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Lithuanian welterweight Eimantas Stanionis (listed as 14-0 with 9 KOs but 18-3 including pro bouts in the World Series of Boxing) will end a 25-month ring absence when he makes the first dense of his WBA regular welterweight title this Saturday against Gabriel Maestre at the T-Mobile Arena, in Las Vegas. The WBA super champion at welterweight is presently [true world welterweight champion] Terence Crawford, who captured the title from Errol Spence last July. Crawford, however, plans to challenge for the WBA and WBO interim world titles at junior middleweight in August. Stanionis captured the WBA regular title with a spirited split decision victory against the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev in April 2022. He then endured a series of postponements and cancelations when trying to set up a fight against top-rated contender Vergil Ortiz Jr., which resulted in his extended inactivity.
“It’s been a long time and I’m very happy to be back in the ring,” said Stanionis. “It’s amazing to fight on this big card on Cinco de Mayo weekend. I know Maestre well and I know there will be fireworks on May 4th.”
Regarding his long layoff, Stanionis said, “It was very frustrating to deal with fights that fell out. I just wanted to fight. But I stayed disciplined and trained hard the whole time. I just believed that I would get my opportunity eventually. I won’t have ring rust because I live the life of an athlete. I’m a very disciplined fighter and I’m in really good shape. I’ve just been waiting for the call and now here we are.” I would love a unification fight. It would be great to fight the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana, and then keep collecting belts,” he continued. Mario Barrios also fights on Saturday facing Fabian Maidana for the interim WBC welterweight world title.
The 37-year-old Mastre (6-0-1 with 5 KOs but 15-8-1) including pro bouts in the World Series of Boxing), born in Barcelona, Velenzuela, now based out of Barranquilla, Colombia, briefly held the interim WBA welterweight world title following a dubious decision win against Mykal Fox in 2021. He has since earned two victories, with one draw. In his last bout, on August 12, 2023, Maestre stopped previously unbeaten prospect Travon Marshall in the second round. An exceptional amateur and two-time Olympian, Maestre did not turn pro until age 33 in 2019.
Maestre has history with Stanionis, also an Olympian, from their amateur days and now he wants his revenge. “Stanionis and I fought in 2015 in the amateurs and it didn’t go the way I wanted, but now I get a chance to redeem myself,” said a confident Maestre. Stanionis has been inactive and I had two big fights last year where I was able to display my skills and knock out my opponent. I hope it’s an advantage and I hope to show that in the ring on May 4th. You’re going to see the best Gabriel Maestre that you’ve ever seen. I’m going to put on a show and go to war. You don’t want to miss it.”
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Spotlight on Stanionis vs. Maestre
Lithuanian welterweight Eimantas Stanionis (listed as 14-0 with 9 KOs but 18-3 including pro bouts in the World Series of Boxing) will end a 25-month ring absence when he makes the first dense of his WBA regular welterweight title this Saturday against Gabriel Maestre at the T-Mobile Arena, in Las Vegas. The WBA super champion at welterweight is presently [true world welterweight champion] Terence Crawford, who captured the title from Errol Spence last July. Crawford, however, plans to challenge for the WBA and WBO interim world titles at junior middleweight in August. Stanionis captured the WBA regular title with a spirited split decision victory against the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev in April 2022. He then endured a series of postponements and cancelations when trying to set up a fight against top-rated contender Vergil Ortiz Jr., which resulted in his extended inactivity.
“It’s been a long time and I’m very happy to be back in the ring,” said Stanionis. “It’s amazing to fight on this big card on Cinco de Mayo weekend. I know Maestre well and I know there will be fireworks on May 4th.”
Regarding his long layoff, Stanionis said, “It was very frustrating to deal with fights that fell out. I just wanted to fight. But I stayed disciplined and trained hard the whole time. I just believed that I would get my opportunity eventually. I won’t have ring rust because I live the life of an athlete. I’m a very disciplined fighter and I’m in really good shape. I’ve just been waiting for the call and now here we are.” I would love a unification fight. It would be great to fight the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana, and then keep collecting belts,” he continued. Mario Barrios also fights on Saturday facing Fabian Maidana for the interim WBC welterweight world title.
The 37-year-old Mastre (6-0-1 with 5 KOs but 15-8-1) including pro bouts in the World Series of Boxing), born in Barcelona, Velenzuela, now based out of Barranquilla, Colombia, briefly held the interim WBA welterweight world title following a dubious decision win against Mykal Fox in 2021. He has since earned two victories, with one draw. In his last bout, on August 12, 2023, Maestre stopped previously unbeaten prospect Travon Marshall in the second round. An exceptional amateur and two-time Olympian, Maestre did not turn pro until age 33 in 2019.
Maestre has history with Stanionis, also an Olympian, from their amateur days and now he wants his revenge. “Stanionis and I fought in 2015 in the amateurs and it didn’t go the way I wanted, but now I get a chance to redeem myself,” said a confident Maestre. Stanionis has been inactive and I had two big fights last year where I was able to display my skills and knock out my opponent. I hope it’s an advantage and I hope to show that in the ring on May 4th. You’re going to see the best Gabriel Maestre that you’ve ever seen. I’m going to put on a show and go to war. You don’t want to miss it.”
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Two-division champ Dingaan Thobela dies at age 57 |
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South Africa is mourning the death of former two-division (lightweight and super middleweight!) champion Dingaan Thobela, who died at ony fifty seven years old. Thobela, who fought on way too long, was found in his apartment in the Mayfair area of Johannesburg by friends and relatives. He had been in poor health for some time. Known and loved as ”The Rose of Soweto,” Dingaan was born in its Chiawelo district andgrew up there in poverty, but under the watchful eye of his grandmother. Following a very credible amateur career, Dingaan turned pro and built a fabulous career spanning from 1986 to 2006. Dingaan won the WBO lightweight crown from Antonio Rivera and then the WBA version on his second attempt. The first time he contested it, he lost on a hotly disputed decision to Tony Lopez. Undeterred, he persisted until he triumphed in a rematch. Unable to make lightweight any more Dingaan`s career languished and went into the doldrums as he drifted up boxing's weight classes. The only person who was undaunted and refused to be downcast, give up and retire, was the man himself. He believed and in 2000, Dingaan won the WBC super middleweight crown from Britain`s Glen Catley with a twelfth-round KO. After that glorious win, Thobela lost his first title defense and finished his career with seven straight losses. His final record is 40-14-2. Boxingtalk sends its sympathies to the friends and family of Dingaan Thobela.
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Two-division champ Dingaan Thobela dies at age 57
South Africa is mourning the death of former two-division (lightweight and super middleweight!) champion Dingaan Thobela, who died at ony fifty seven years old. Thobela, who fought on way too long, was found in his apartment in the Mayfair area of Johannesburg by friends and relatives. He had been in poor health for some time. Known and loved as ”The Rose of Soweto,” Dingaan was born in its Chiawelo district andgrew up there in poverty, but under the watchful eye of his grandmother. Following a very credible amateur career, Dingaan turned pro and built a fabulous career spanning from 1986 to 2006. Dingaan won the WBO lightweight crown from Antonio Rivera and then the WBA version on his second attempt. The first time he contested it, he lost on a hotly disputed decision to Tony Lopez. Undeterred, he persisted until he triumphed in a rematch. Unable to make lightweight any more Dingaan`s career languished and went into the doldrums as he drifted up boxing's weight classes. The only person who was undaunted and refused to be downcast, give up and retire, was the man himself. He believed and in 2000, Dingaan won the WBC super middleweight crown from Britain`s Glen Catley with a twelfth-round KO. After that glorious win, Thobela lost his first title defense and finished his career with seven straight losses. His final record is 40-14-2. Boxingtalk sends its sympathies to the friends and family of Dingaan Thobela.
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Philadelphia update: Cason has easy time with Capers |
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Muhsin Cason KO1 Lamont Capers ... On Saturday, cruiserweight Muhsin “The Muslim Boxer” Cason (12-0, 9 KOs) registered a first-round knockout over late replacement Lamont Capers (11-22-5, 2 KOs). The scheduled six-round bout, promoted by Teflon Promotions, took place at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia. Cason landed two overhand rights, the first one landed flush on the face of Capers, sending him to the canvas in the early part of the round. The second one, identical to the first, sent Capers to the deck for good, ending the bout in round one. [It was Capers' seventh straight loss].
"This past Saturday I landed two really hard overhand rights that landed perfectly,” said Cason, who is advised by Amer Abdallah. “First one knocked him down, second one finished the job. It was all over in the blink of an eye. I wish Capers well in his career and I’m thankful that he stepped in the ring with me on late notice."
“Muhsin Cason continues to show tremendous growth in his progression as a true cruiserweight.” Abdallah said, after the great performance. “Muhsin Cason continues to show consistent progression as a growing force in the cruiserweight division.” Abdallah said, after the great performance. “The plan is to get him right back under the lights as soon as possible and keep him busy. Each fight, he shows more experience, precision and overall ring generalship. I’m excited for what’s next.”
“The cruiserweight division is wide open and I’m hoping by the end of the year I’ll be in a position to fight for a regional title,” Cason concluded. “Next year I have a vision to be crowned world champion, God willing.”
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Philadelphia update: Cason has easy time with Capers
Muhsin Cason KO1 Lamont Capers ... On Saturday, cruiserweight Muhsin “The Muslim Boxer” Cason (12-0, 9 KOs) registered a first-round knockout over late replacement Lamont Capers (11-22-5, 2 KOs). The scheduled six-round bout, promoted by Teflon Promotions, took place at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia. Cason landed two overhand rights, the first one landed flush on the face of Capers, sending him to the canvas in the early part of the round. The second one, identical to the first, sent Capers to the deck for good, ending the bout in round one. [It was Capers' seventh straight loss].
"This past Saturday I landed two really hard overhand rights that landed perfectly,” said Cason, who is advised by Amer Abdallah. “First one knocked him down, second one finished the job. It was all over in the blink of an eye. I wish Capers well in his career and I’m thankful that he stepped in the ring with me on late notice."
“Muhsin Cason continues to show tremendous growth in his progression as a true cruiserweight.” Abdallah said, after the great performance. “Muhsin Cason continues to show consistent progression as a growing force in the cruiserweight division.” Abdallah said, after the great performance. “The plan is to get him right back under the lights as soon as possible and keep him busy. Each fight, he shows more experience, precision and overall ring generalship. I’m excited for what’s next.”
“The cruiserweight division is wide open and I’m hoping by the end of the year I’ll be in a position to fight for a regional title,” Cason concluded. “Next year I have a vision to be crowned world champion, God willing.”
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Alalshikh wants Wilder vs. Anderson in August |
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Turki Alalshikh, the Saudi government official who controls Saudi boxing and has a seemingly unlimited budget, wants to match Deontay Wilder against Jared Anderson in August, if Wilder gets by Zhilei Zhang on June 1st im Saudi Arabia. Alashikh, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority (GEA), tweeted: "The talented Jared Anderson is with us now on the August 3rd Riyadh Season card at Los Angeles against the Bronze Bomber Deontay Wilder - if he's ready by then to fight after 1st of June's fight against Zhilei Zhang. I always believe that boxing would be at its peak when you have young American heavyweights like Jared Anderson which I also believe in his talent and his promising future. my advice to him is to focus on your future, training, and commitment and you will reach to your goals. Happy to collaborate with Top Rank again - Riyadh Season card 3rd of August in LA, will be one for the history!"
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Alalshikh wants Wilder vs. Anderson in August
Turki Alalshikh, the Saudi government official who controls Saudi boxing and has a seemingly unlimited budget, wants to match Deontay Wilder against Jared Anderson in August, if Wilder gets by Zhilei Zhang on June 1st im Saudi Arabia. Alashikh, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority (GEA), tweeted: "The talented Jared Anderson is with us now on the August 3rd Riyadh Season card at Los Angeles against the Bronze Bomber Deontay Wilder - if he's ready by then to fight after 1st of June's fight against Zhilei Zhang. I always believe that boxing would be at its peak when you have young American heavyweights like Jared Anderson which I also believe in his talent and his promising future. my advice to him is to focus on your future, training, and commitment and you will reach to your goals. Happy to collaborate with Top Rank again - Riyadh Season card 3rd of August in LA, will be one for the history!"
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Pryce Taylor books NJ fight for May 11th |
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Undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs) is looking forward to fighting May11th at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The 6’ 4”, 27-year-old Taylor is matched against Lawrence King, Jr. (2-1, 1 KO), of Rochester (NY), in a four-round bout on a card presented by Boxing Insider Promotions (BIP). “Atlantic City loves a strong heavyweight,” BIP promoter Larry Goldberg said. “Pryce Taylor is a future star in the heavyweight division. Boxing Insider Promotions is excited to work with Pryce a second time and to feature him May 11 at Tropicana Atlantic City.”
Taylor has family roots in New Jersey, and he’s confident in having a lot of support fighting in Atlantic City. “My dad was born in Cape May, which is only an hour away from Atlantic City, and I have relatives all over that area,” Taylor explained. “My grandmother had 13 kids and I have a lot of aunts, uncles and cousins coming to my fight.”
In his most recent fight, Taylor went the four-round distance for the first time as a pro, albeit a “shutout” performance, winning each round on all three judges’ scorecards this past March 7th versus Antonio Torres (4-1). “I’m learning all the time and in my last fight I learned that it’s hard to stop guys who really don’t want to fight,” Taylor noted. “When you hit as hard as I do, opponents start covering up as soon as they get hit. As long as the outcome in the end is a win, my dream of becoming heavyweight champion of the world remains alive.”
A decorated U.S. amateur boxer, highlighted by his two New York Golden Gloves Championship titles, Taylor was also a four-time runner-up in USA National Championships, including one to super heavyweight Joshua Edwards, who has qualified to represent Team USA in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Taylor has been working with his manager, NYC-based lawyer Keith Sullivan, for five months. Sullivan, who is a former Deputy Commissioner for the New York State Athletic Commission, has scheduled him for five pro fights during that relatively short period, which is an exceptionally impressive pace in today’s modern era. One fight was canceled due to the opponent failing an eye exam at the weigh-in and Sullivan spent hours working the phone trying to secure a last-minute replacement to no avail.
Sullivan and Pryce adopt the old-school mentality that a fighter needs ring experience and to be kept active if they are going to be a world champion. “I always tell my fighters to exclusively focus on the fight in front of them, and just know that I am working on the two behind that,” Sullivan explained. “Pyrce is developing impressively and I’m making sure he is pushed at the right pace, but not to his detriment. He has world-title power and size, and I am putting him in position for the right opportunities.”
Last year, Taylor had seven wins fighting for New York in the Team Combat League (TCL), which is a one-round, team format competition. Technically-speaking, the wins are not part of his professional boxing record, but Pryce has benefited from that experience, and he is competing again this season for NYC Attitude. Taylor played basketball for one season at Corning Community College in upstate New York, and now is gradually making a name for himself in pro boxing circles.
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Pryce Taylor books NJ fight for May 11th
Undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs) is looking forward to fighting May11th at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The 6’ 4”, 27-year-old Taylor is matched against Lawrence King, Jr. (2-1, 1 KO), of Rochester (NY), in a four-round bout on a card presented by Boxing Insider Promotions (BIP). “Atlantic City loves a strong heavyweight,” BIP promoter Larry Goldberg said. “Pryce Taylor is a future star in the heavyweight division. Boxing Insider Promotions is excited to work with Pryce a second time and to feature him May 11 at Tropicana Atlantic City.”
Taylor has family roots in New Jersey, and he’s confident in having a lot of support fighting in Atlantic City. “My dad was born in Cape May, which is only an hour away from Atlantic City, and I have relatives all over that area,” Taylor explained. “My grandmother had 13 kids and I have a lot of aunts, uncles and cousins coming to my fight.”
In his most recent fight, Taylor went the four-round distance for the first time as a pro, albeit a “shutout” performance, winning each round on all three judges’ scorecards this past March 7th versus Antonio Torres (4-1). “I’m learning all the time and in my last fight I learned that it’s hard to stop guys who really don’t want to fight,” Taylor noted. “When you hit as hard as I do, opponents start covering up as soon as they get hit. As long as the outcome in the end is a win, my dream of becoming heavyweight champion of the world remains alive.”
A decorated U.S. amateur boxer, highlighted by his two New York Golden Gloves Championship titles, Taylor was also a four-time runner-up in USA National Championships, including one to super heavyweight Joshua Edwards, who has qualified to represent Team USA in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Taylor has been working with his manager, NYC-based lawyer Keith Sullivan, for five months. Sullivan, who is a former Deputy Commissioner for the New York State Athletic Commission, has scheduled him for five pro fights during that relatively short period, which is an exceptionally impressive pace in today’s modern era. One fight was canceled due to the opponent failing an eye exam at the weigh-in and Sullivan spent hours working the phone trying to secure a last-minute replacement to no avail.
Sullivan and Pryce adopt the old-school mentality that a fighter needs ring experience and to be kept active if they are going to be a world champion. “I always tell my fighters to exclusively focus on the fight in front of them, and just know that I am working on the two behind that,” Sullivan explained. “Pyrce is developing impressively and I’m making sure he is pushed at the right pace, but not to his detriment. He has world-title power and size, and I am putting him in position for the right opportunities.”
Last year, Taylor had seven wins fighting for New York in the Team Combat League (TCL), which is a one-round, team format competition. Technically-speaking, the wins are not part of his professional boxing record, but Pryce has benefited from that experience, and he is competing again this season for NYC Attitude. Taylor played basketball for one season at Corning Community College in upstate New York, and now is gradually making a name for himself in pro boxing circles.
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Montreal card featuring Bazinyan vs. Phinn to stream on ESPN+ |
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Undefeated super middleweight Erik Bazinyan returns in the ten-round main event against Shakeel Phinn this Thursday, May 2nd at Casino de Montréal. Promoted by Eye of The Tiger, the show will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Bazinyan (32-0, 23 KOs) has spent the majority of his ten-year career in Canada after moving from Armenia when he was age 16. He debuted in the U.S. in May 2019 with a points triumph over Alan Campa and knocked out Saul Roman in three that December. Last year, he scored decision wins against Alantez Fox in February and Jose de Jesus Macias in June before dispatching Ronald Ellis in six in October. Bazinyan initiated his 2024 campaign with a third-round stoppage against Billi Godoy in January.
Phinn (26-3-1, 17 KOs) looks to extend his winning streak to six and returns after stopping Rafael Sosa Pintos in one round last October. The only blemishes on his record have come against unbeaten fighters.
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Montreal card featuring Bazinyan vs. Phinn to stream on ESPN+
Undefeated super middleweight Erik Bazinyan returns in the ten-round main event against Shakeel Phinn this Thursday, May 2nd at Casino de Montréal. Promoted by Eye of The Tiger, the show will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Bazinyan (32-0, 23 KOs) has spent the majority of his ten-year career in Canada after moving from Armenia when he was age 16. He debuted in the U.S. in May 2019 with a points triumph over Alan Campa and knocked out Saul Roman in three that December. Last year, he scored decision wins against Alantez Fox in February and Jose de Jesus Macias in June before dispatching Ronald Ellis in six in October. Bazinyan initiated his 2024 campaign with a third-round stoppage against Billi Godoy in January.
Phinn (26-3-1, 17 KOs) looks to extend his winning streak to six and returns after stopping Rafael Sosa Pintos in one round last October. The only blemishes on his record have come against unbeaten fighters.
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Welcome to Inoue vs. Nery fight week |
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On May 6th, Luis “Pantera” Nery (pictured) will challenge Naoya "Monster Inoue in Japan for the world 122-pound championship. Though Nery, a former 118- and 122-pound title holder has had weight issues in the past (he lost the WBC bantamweight title on the scales in 2018), it does not look like there will be any weight issues for him this time. Nery posted a video of himself weighing 124.8 pounds seven days before the fight as part of the WBC's seven-day weight check program.
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Welcome to Inoue vs. Nery fight week
On May 6th, Luis “Pantera” Nery (pictured) will challenge Naoya "Monster Inoue in Japan for the world 122-pound championship. Though Nery, a former 118- and 122-pound title holder has had weight issues in the past (he lost the WBC bantamweight title on the scales in 2018), it does not look like there will be any weight issues for him this time. Nery posted a video of himself weighing 124.8 pounds seven days before the fight as part of the WBC's seven-day weight check program.
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Jessica Camara gets big road win over Myun Hi Choi |
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Jessica Camara W10 Myun Hi Choi... Montreal's Jessica Camara scored a huge road win against formerly undefeated two-division champion Myun Hi Choi. Camara won the lightweight bout via split decision in Choi's home country of South Korea. With the win, Camara, who is managed by Split-T Management adds to a resume that includes wins over Dalila Vazquez (5-1) and former champion Heather Hardy (22-1). Camara is now 13-4. Choi, who remarkably won the WBA featherweight bout at age 17 in her professional debut is now 22-1-1. Choi went on to make seven defenses before moving up to win the WBA super featherweight title. She moved up in weight without losing either title in the ring.
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Jessica Camara gets big road win over Myun Hi Choi
Jessica Camara W10 Myun Hi Choi... Montreal's Jessica Camara scored a huge road win against formerly undefeated two-division champion Myun Hi Choi. Camara won the lightweight bout via split decision in Choi's home country of South Korea. With the win, Camara, who is managed by Split-T Management adds to a resume that includes wins over Dalila Vazquez (5-1) and former champion Heather Hardy (22-1). Camara is now 13-4. Choi, who remarkably won the WBA featherweight bout at age 17 in her professional debut is now 22-1-1. Choi went on to make seven defenses before moving up to win the WBA super featherweight title. She moved up in weight without losing either title in the ring.
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Danier Pero scores first-round KO |
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Dainier Pero KO1 Jose Mario Tamez... Heavyweight Dainier “The Fear” Pero (7-0, 5 KOs) secured a first-round knockout victory over Jose Mario Tamez (4-4, 1 KO) of Mexico. The Cuban Pero, who is promoted by Amaury Piedra’s BoxLab Promotions was fighting on a Most Valuable Prospects show aired on DAZN this past Friday from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Pero unleashed a straight left to the head followed by a right hook to the body. Tamez showed a lot of heart but struggled to withstand the onslaught and the referee intervened, stopping the fight in round one to prevent further damage. Pero threw some really hard accurate punches, but it was a straight left to the mid-section that ended the fight.
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Danier Pero scores first-round KO
Dainier Pero KO1 Jose Mario Tamez... Heavyweight Dainier “The Fear” Pero (7-0, 5 KOs) secured a first-round knockout victory over Jose Mario Tamez (4-4, 1 KO) of Mexico. The Cuban Pero, who is promoted by Amaury Piedra’s BoxLab Promotions was fighting on a Most Valuable Prospects show aired on DAZN this past Friday from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Pero unleashed a straight left to the head followed by a right hook to the body. Tamez showed a lot of heart but struggled to withstand the onslaught and the referee intervened, stopping the fight in round one to prevent further damage. Pero threw some really hard accurate punches, but it was a straight left to the mid-section that ended the fight.
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WBA to recognize three champions at 154: champion, interim and champion in recess |
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The WBA wrote: "With the official announcement of the bout between [WBA junior middleweight champion] Israil Madrimov and [world welterweight champion] Terence Crawford [which will be for Madrimov's title], the WBA Championships Committee issued a resolution on the special permission Crawford received to move up in class to the [154-pound division]. Crawford, who is the [WBA super champion] at welterweight, will move up to the next division to challenge champion Madrimov on August 3rd, in Los Angeles. The American requested the permission to move up and keep the welterweight crown and the committee granted it provided that if he beats Madrimov he will have five days after the fight to make a decision about which title he will keep. On the other hand, Vergil Ortiz Jr., is the mandatory challenger at 154, and for that reason, he will be given the opportunity to dispute the interim belt against Australia's Tim Tzsyu. Additionally, Jermell Charlo [who previously held all four titles at 154 but moved up for a failed challenge at world super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez] was ratified as champion in recess, and will have the right to face the winner of Madrimov-Crawford or Madrimov in case that fight ends in a draw. The body formally informed all those involved in the situation, who are obliged to know the WBA rules. This resolution annuls all the previous ones while any situation that may arise will be resolved through the interpretation of the rules."
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WBA to recognize three champions at 154: champion, interim and champion in recess
The WBA wrote: "With the official announcement of the bout between [WBA junior middleweight champion] Israil Madrimov and [world welterweight champion] Terence Crawford [which will be for Madrimov's title], the WBA Championships Committee issued a resolution on the special permission Crawford received to move up in class to the [154-pound division]. Crawford, who is the [WBA super champion] at welterweight, will move up to the next division to challenge champion Madrimov on August 3rd, in Los Angeles. The American requested the permission to move up and keep the welterweight crown and the committee granted it provided that if he beats Madrimov he will have five days after the fight to make a decision about which title he will keep. On the other hand, Vergil Ortiz Jr., is the mandatory challenger at 154, and for that reason, he will be given the opportunity to dispute the interim belt against Australia's Tim Tzsyu. Additionally, Jermell Charlo [who previously held all four titles at 154 but moved up for a failed challenge at world super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez] was ratified as champion in recess, and will have the right to face the winner of Madrimov-Crawford or Madrimov in case that fight ends in a draw. The body formally informed all those involved in the situation, who are obliged to know the WBA rules. This resolution annuls all the previous ones while any situation that may arise will be resolved through the interpretation of the rules."
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Watch: Ortiz KOs Dulorme to set up a big fight |
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Vergil Ortiz Jr. KO1 Thomas Dulorme... Though he moved up a weight class to junior middleweight, Vergil Ortiz Jr. showed he retained his punching power and remains one of the most exciting boxers in the sport. Fighting in Fresno, California, Ortiz delivered a liver shot that knocked out Thomas Dulorme in the first round. The win set up a likely fight between Ortiz and former WBO champion Tim Tszyu. In his post-fight interview, Ortiz called out the Australian: "Hey Tim, I know you’re watching this fight right now. I’m ready for you, man. We’re ready... let’s get ready for World War III. Let’s put on the best show for these folks alright?"
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Watch: Ortiz KOs Dulorme to set up a big fight
Vergil Ortiz Jr. KO1 Thomas Dulorme... Though he moved up a weight class to junior middleweight, Vergil Ortiz Jr. showed he retained his punching power and remains one of the most exciting boxers in the sport. Fighting in Fresno, California, Ortiz delivered a liver shot that knocked out Thomas Dulorme in the first round. The win set up a likely fight between Ortiz and former WBO champion Tim Tszyu. In his post-fight interview, Ortiz called out the Australian: "Hey Tim, I know you’re watching this fight right now. I’m ready for you, man. We’re ready... let’s get ready for World War III. Let’s put on the best show for these folks alright?"
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Ramirez survives knockdown to defeat Barthelemy |
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Jose Ramirez W12 Rances Barthelemy ... In a battle of former champions, Jose Ramirez was successful in his Golden Boy debut on Saturday night. But it took the veteran overcoming a rocky third round to do so as he managed to defeat Rances Barthelemy by unanimous decision. Judges inside the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California scored it 119-109 (twice) and 118-110 all in Ramirez's favor. It seemed that Barthelemy did enough in the hard-fought matchup to at least make the scores a little tighter. After Ramirez set the tone early, Barthelemy unleashed a left hook and followed it with a barrage of punches in the third round, forcing Ramirez to drop to a knee with his hand on the canvas, though it was ruled a push off instead of a knockdown. To the credit of the former two-belt 140-pound champion, Ramirez battled back and recovered admirably in a back-and-forth fight which saw him threaten a stoppage in the eleventh round, before ending the fight with a victory in tow, improving to 29-1 with 18 KOs. Barthelemy, reduced to a once-a-year fighter, is now 30-3-1.
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Ramirez survives knockdown to defeat Barthelemy
Jose Ramirez W12 Rances Barthelemy ... In a battle of former champions, Jose Ramirez was successful in his Golden Boy debut on Saturday night. But it took the veteran overcoming a rocky third round to do so as he managed to defeat Rances Barthelemy by unanimous decision. Judges inside the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California scored it 119-109 (twice) and 118-110 all in Ramirez's favor. It seemed that Barthelemy did enough in the hard-fought matchup to at least make the scores a little tighter. After Ramirez set the tone early, Barthelemy unleashed a left hook and followed it with a barrage of punches in the third round, forcing Ramirez to drop to a knee with his hand on the canvas, though it was ruled a push off instead of a knockdown. To the credit of the former two-belt 140-pound champion, Ramirez battled back and recovered admirably in a back-and-forth fight which saw him threaten a stoppage in the eleventh round, before ending the fight with a victory in tow, improving to 29-1 with 18 KOs. Barthelemy, reduced to a once-a-year fighter, is now 30-3-1.
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Watch: Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo wins insane bare knuckles fight |
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Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship made its California debut with “KnuckleMania 4” on Saturday at the sold-out Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. In one of the best single-round fights in BKFC history, former champion gloved boxer Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo overcame a seemingly insurmountable onslaught of heavy punches from Jeremiah “Big Rig” Riggs before dropping the Vicksburg, MS brawler 93 seconds into the opening round of their middleweight battle. Riggs was pulling Angulo's long hair without any intervention from the referee but Angulo fould a way to break free and drop Riggs. Angulo, a former Olympic gloved boxer for Team Mexico, is 1-0 in the BKFC squared circle, while Riggs drops to 2-3.
In the main event, “Platinum” Mike Perry, smashed his way to 5-0 in the BKFC squared circle with a 60-second TKO over former BKFC champion Thiago “Pitbull” Alves. Perry, The BKFC "King of Violence" from Orlando, Florida, is riding high after three straight stoppage victories under the BKFC banner. Alves, a product of Coconut Creek, FL, fell to 2-1 after this must-see matchup of combat sports icons. “My easiest fight yet – just like I said it would be! I’m the undisputed king of bare knuckle. I’m the No. 1 Pound for Pound. (Expletive) anybody who thinks differently,” Perry told the sold-out Peacock Theater.
In the co-feature, United Kingdom powerhouse Mick Terrill retained his BKFC heavyweight championship with a TKO over Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt. Hunt, who holds the BKFC cruiserweight championship and BKFC light heavyweight championship, was unable to continue fighting after he was dropped by Terrill and suffered a serious arm injury. He was attempting to become the first fighter to ever hold three BKFC world titles. With the loss, the Jacksonville, FL fighter’s BKFC record falls to 10-2. Terrill, who now boasts a bare knuckle record of 9-1, was gracious in victory, saying he’d be happy to grant Hunt a rematch for the belt: “One-hundred percent. I like Lorenzo, but I dropped him with the uppercut and he broke his arm.” Time of the stoppage via TKO was 1:48 in the first round.
“Big” Ben Rothwell climbed to 3-0 in the squared circle after opponent Todd “White Lightning” Duffee suffered a shoulder injury in the first round of their heavyweight bout. The fight was called to a stop after just 43 seconds. Rothwell dropped Duffee, who hails from San Jose, CA, once in the opening round. A fired-up Rothwell, who represents Kenosha, WI, was disappointed to not be able to put on a longer show for fight fans at the jam-packed Peacock Theater in this matchup of long-time MMA fan-favorite fighters. “I came here to knock him the (expletive) out for all of you. He clipped my nose and I was about to get payback. I just needed to get one good connection and it would’ve been a good, clean knockout. I’m sorry, people, I came to perform. I came here to get a title fight.”
It was also announced that combat sports icon Conor “Notorious” McGregor of McGregor Sports and Entertainment Ltd. has become a part owner of BKFC, the world’s fastest growing combat sports promotion. "Welcome to the big leagues. David Feldman, baby, we did it," McGregor said.
Replied David Feldman, BKFC Founder/President: "We've got the biggest guy in all of combat sports who's the part owner of the company. It's going to move the needle immensely. We're going to do a lot of big things, we're going to enter a lot of new markets. Conor, thank you, and let's blow this (expletive) up!"
Clearwater, FL’s Julian “Let Me Bang” Lane was declared the winner via TKO in his middleweight bout with Evgeny “The Sailor” Kurdanov after Kurdanov suffered a serious arm injury in the opening round. The ringside doctor stopped the fight at the conclusion of the first round. Lane is now 4-6 under the BKFC banner, while the Russian-born Los Angeles fighter Kurdanov falls to 0-2 in the Squared Circle.
Tampa, FL’s Crystal “The Rugged Beauty” Pittman needed just 48 seconds to take out Sydney “Sundance” Smith of Waynesboro, VA via TKO in women’s bantamweight action. Pittman is now 3-3 on the strength of back-to-back stoppage victories, while Smith, who took the fight on short notice, falls to 1-2.
David “El Perro Necio” Diaz’s and Shane "Suga Shane" Jordan’s back-and-forth bantamweight battle was ruled a unanimous draw after five hard rounds, with all three judges scoring it 47-47 apiece. Diaz avoided defeat by dropping Jordan in the fourth round – the only knockdown of the fight. The Mexican-born South Central Los Angeles fighter Diaz is now 2-1-1 in the Squared Circle; Jordan, who also hails from Los Angeles, is 0-0-1.
Unbeaten Andrew “The King of Cali” Angelcor edged out Ruben “Bad Boy” Warr for the split-decision in their evenly matched lightweight bout. Two judges scored it in favor of the Barstow, CA product Angelcor (49-46, 48-47), while one gave it to the Louisville, KY fighter Warr (48-47). Angelcor is now 4-0-1 under the BKFC banner; Warr falls to 1-1 with the loss.
Imperial Valley, CA bantamweight Daniel “Machete” Alvarez picked himself up off the canvas twice in the first round of his bout with Victor Rosas of Escondido, CA before ultimately earning the victory via TKO. The bout was stopped by the ringside doctor at the conclusion of the fourth round. Alvarez upped his BKFC record to 2-2 with the win; the debuting Rosas fell to 0-1.
Vincent "The Mexitalian Stallion" Familari of San Gabriel Valley, CA overwhelmed Menifee, CA’s Fernando "The Menifee Maniac" Gonzalez with five rounds of unrelenting forward pressure, paving the way for a decision in their spirited middleweight matchup. The judges scored it 49-46, 50-45, 49-46, all in favor of Familari. Both fighters were making their first appearance under the BKFC banner. Prior to Gonzalez’s BKFC debut, he was victorious in seven of his nine MMA bouts with Bellator MMA.
San Pedro, CA lightweight Tommy Aaron turned heads in his BKFC debut by taking out Richard "The Big Bad Wolf" Brooks of South Central Los Angeles, CA via second-round TKO. Time of the stoppage was 1:14 in the second frame. Both fighters were making their BKFC debut.
In the first bare knuckle fight in California state history, Keith “The Officer” Richardson defeated Cody "The Huntington Beach Good Guy" Vidal in cruiserweight action. The ringside doctor called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the second round. Richardson, who hails from Hollywood, CA, is now 2-0 in the Squared Circle after his victorious debut less than a month ago at BKFC 59. Vidal, who represents Huntington Beach, CA, drops to 0-1.
Celebrities in attendance at KnuckleMania 4 included MMA legend Nate Diaz, reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies, as well as defending BKFC World Champions Christine “Misfit” Ferea, David “The Redneck” Mundell and Kai “Hefty Bag” Stewart.
KnuckleMania 4 Results
Mike Perry def. Thiago Alves via TKO in Round 1 (1:00)
(C) Mick Terrill def. Lorenzo Hunt via TKO in Round 1 (1:48)
Retains BKFC World Heavyweight Title
Ben Rothwell def. Todd Duffee via TKO in Round 1 (0:43)
Alfredo Angulo def. Jeremiah Riggs via KO in Round 1 (1:33)
Julian Lane def. Evgeny Kurdanov via TKO (doctor stoppage) in Round 1 (2:00)
Crystal Pittman def. Sydney Smith via TKO in Round 1 (0:48)
David Diaz vs. Shane Jordan is ruled a Unanimous Draw (47-47x3)
Andrew Angelcor def. Ruben Warr via Split Decision (47-48, 49-46, 48-47)
Daniel Alvarez def. Victor Rosas via TKO (doctor stoppage) in Round 4 (2:00)
Vincent Familari def. Fernando Gonzalez via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 50-45)
Tommy Aaron def. Richard Brooks via TKO in Round 2 (1:14)
Keith Richardson def. Cody Vidal via TKO (doctor stoppage) in Round 2 (2:00)
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Watch: Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo wins insane bare knuckles fight
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship made its California debut with “KnuckleMania 4” on Saturday at the sold-out Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. In one of the best single-round fights in BKFC history, former champion gloved boxer Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo overcame a seemingly insurmountable onslaught of heavy punches from Jeremiah “Big Rig” Riggs before dropping the Vicksburg, MS brawler 93 seconds into the opening round of their middleweight battle. Riggs was pulling Angulo's long hair without any intervention from the referee but Angulo fould a way to break free and drop Riggs. Angulo, a former Olympic gloved boxer for Team Mexico, is 1-0 in the BKFC squared circle, while Riggs drops to 2-3.
In the main event, “Platinum” Mike Perry, smashed his way to 5-0 in the BKFC squared circle with a 60-second TKO over former BKFC champion Thiago “Pitbull” Alves. Perry, The BKFC "King of Violence" from Orlando, Florida, is riding high after three straight stoppage victories under the BKFC banner. Alves, a product of Coconut Creek, FL, fell to 2-1 after this must-see matchup of combat sports icons. “My easiest fight yet – just like I said it would be! I’m the undisputed king of bare knuckle. I’m the No. 1 Pound for Pound. (Expletive) anybody who thinks differently,” Perry told the sold-out Peacock Theater.
In the co-feature, United Kingdom powerhouse Mick Terrill retained his BKFC heavyweight championship with a TKO over Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt. Hunt, who holds the BKFC cruiserweight championship and BKFC light heavyweight championship, was unable to continue fighting after he was dropped by Terrill and suffered a serious arm injury. He was attempting to become the first fighter to ever hold three BKFC world titles. With the loss, the Jacksonville, FL fighter’s BKFC record falls to 10-2. Terrill, who now boasts a bare knuckle record of 9-1, was gracious in victory, saying he’d be happy to grant Hunt a rematch for the belt: “One-hundred percent. I like Lorenzo, but I dropped him with the uppercut and he broke his arm.” Time of the stoppage via TKO was 1:48 in the first round.
“Big” Ben Rothwell climbed to 3-0 in the squared circle after opponent Todd “White Lightning” Duffee suffered a shoulder injury in the first round of their heavyweight bout. The fight was called to a stop after just 43 seconds. Rothwell dropped Duffee, who hails from San Jose, CA, once in the opening round. A fired-up Rothwell, who represents Kenosha, WI, was disappointed to not be able to put on a longer show for fight fans at the jam-packed Peacock Theater in this matchup of long-time MMA fan-favorite fighters. “I came here to knock him the (expletive) out for all of you. He clipped my nose and I was about to get payback. I just needed to get one good connection and it would’ve been a good, clean knockout. I’m sorry, people, I came to perform. I came here to get a title fight.”
It was also announced that combat sports icon Conor “Notorious” McGregor of McGregor Sports and Entertainment Ltd. has become a part owner of BKFC, the world’s fastest growing combat sports promotion. "Welcome to the big leagues. David Feldman, baby, we did it," McGregor said.
Replied David Feldman, BKFC Founder/President: "We've got the biggest guy in all of combat sports who's the part owner of the company. It's going to move the needle immensely. We're going to do a lot of big things, we're going to enter a lot of new markets. Conor, thank you, and let's blow this (expletive) up!"
Clearwater, FL’s Julian “Let Me Bang” Lane was declared the winner via TKO in his middleweight bout with Evgeny “The Sailor” Kurdanov after Kurdanov suffered a serious arm injury in the opening round. The ringside doctor stopped the fight at the conclusion of the first round. Lane is now 4-6 under the BKFC banner, while the Russian-born Los Angeles fighter Kurdanov falls to 0-2 in the Squared Circle.
Tampa, FL’s Crystal “The Rugged Beauty” Pittman needed just 48 seconds to take out Sydney “Sundance” Smith of Waynesboro, VA via TKO in women’s bantamweight action. Pittman is now 3-3 on the strength of back-to-back stoppage victories, while Smith, who took the fight on short notice, falls to 1-2.
David “El Perro Necio” Diaz’s and Shane "Suga Shane" Jordan’s back-and-forth bantamweight battle was ruled a unanimous draw after five hard rounds, with all three judges scoring it 47-47 apiece. Diaz avoided defeat by dropping Jordan in the fourth round – the only knockdown of the fight. The Mexican-born South Central Los Angeles fighter Diaz is now 2-1-1 in the Squared Circle; Jordan, who also hails from Los Angeles, is 0-0-1.
Unbeaten Andrew “The King of Cali” Angelcor edged out Ruben “Bad Boy” Warr for the split-decision in their evenly matched lightweight bout. Two judges scored it in favor of the Barstow, CA product Angelcor (49-46, 48-47), while one gave it to the Louisville, KY fighter Warr (48-47). Angelcor is now 4-0-1 under the BKFC banner; Warr falls to 1-1 with the loss.
Imperial Valley, CA bantamweight Daniel “Machete” Alvarez picked himself up off the canvas twice in the first round of his bout with Victor Rosas of Escondido, CA before ultimately earning the victory via TKO. The bout was stopped by the ringside doctor at the conclusion of the fourth round. Alvarez upped his BKFC record to 2-2 with the win; the debuting Rosas fell to 0-1.
Vincent "The Mexitalian Stallion" Familari of San Gabriel Valley, CA overwhelmed Menifee, CA’s Fernando "The Menifee Maniac" Gonzalez with five rounds of unrelenting forward pressure, paving the way for a decision in their spirited middleweight matchup. The judges scored it 49-46, 50-45, 49-46, all in favor of Familari. Both fighters were making their first appearance under the BKFC banner. Prior to Gonzalez’s BKFC debut, he was victorious in seven of his nine MMA bouts with Bellator MMA.
San Pedro, CA lightweight Tommy Aaron turned heads in his BKFC debut by taking out Richard "The Big Bad Wolf" Brooks of South Central Los Angeles, CA via second-round TKO. Time of the stoppage was 1:14 in the second frame. Both fighters were making their BKFC debut.
In the first bare knuckle fight in California state history, Keith “The Officer” Richardson defeated Cody "The Huntington Beach Good Guy" Vidal in cruiserweight action. The ringside doctor called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the second round. Richardson, who hails from Hollywood, CA, is now 2-0 in the Squared Circle after his victorious debut less than a month ago at BKFC 59. Vidal, who represents Huntington Beach, CA, drops to 0-1.
Celebrities in attendance at KnuckleMania 4 included MMA legend Nate Diaz, reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies, as well as defending BKFC World Champions Christine “Misfit” Ferea, David “The Redneck” Mundell and Kai “Hefty Bag” Stewart.
KnuckleMania 4 Results
Mike Perry def. Thiago Alves via TKO in Round 1 (1:00)
(C) Mick Terrill def. Lorenzo Hunt via TKO in Round 1 (1:48)
Retains BKFC World Heavyweight Title
Ben Rothwell def. Todd Duffee via TKO in Round 1 (0:43)
Alfredo Angulo def. Jeremiah Riggs via KO in Round 1 (1:33)
Julian Lane def. Evgeny Kurdanov via TKO (doctor stoppage) in Round 1 (2:00)
Crystal Pittman def. Sydney Smith via TKO in Round 1 (0:48)
David Diaz vs. Shane Jordan is ruled a Unanimous Draw (47-47x3)
Andrew Angelcor def. Ruben Warr via Split Decision (47-48, 49-46, 48-47)
Daniel Alvarez def. Victor Rosas via TKO (doctor stoppage) in Round 4 (2:00)
Vincent Familari def. Fernando Gonzalez via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 50-45)
Tommy Aaron def. Richard Brooks via TKO in Round 2 (1:14)
Keith Richardson def. Cody Vidal via TKO (doctor stoppage) in Round 2 (2:00)
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions |
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions: Marlen Esparza (14-1) vs. Gabriela Celeste Alaniz (14-1) (WBC, WBA, & WBO flyweight titles) … prediction: Esparza by decision; Vergil Ortiz Jr. (20-0) vs. Thomas Dulorme (26-6-1) (middleweights) … prediction: Ortiz Jr. by early to mid-round knockout;
Yamileth Mercado (22-3) vs. Linda Laura Lecca (16-7-2) (WBC super bantamweight title) … prediction: Mercado by unanimous decision;
Peter McGrail (8-1) vs. Marc Leach (18-3-1) (super bantamweights) … prediction: McGrail by unanimous decision;
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions
Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions: Marlen Esparza (14-1) vs. Gabriela Celeste Alaniz (14-1) (WBC, WBA, & WBO flyweight titles) … prediction: Esparza by decision; Vergil Ortiz Jr. (20-0) vs. Thomas Dulorme (26-6-1) (middleweights) … prediction: Ortiz Jr. by early to mid-round knockout;
Yamileth Mercado (22-3) vs. Linda Laura Lecca (16-7-2) (WBC super bantamweight title) … prediction: Mercado by unanimous decision;
Peter McGrail (8-1) vs. Marc Leach (18-3-1) (super bantamweights) … prediction: McGrail by unanimous decision;
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Weigh-in report from Fresno, California |
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Weigh-in report for tonight's featured bouts from Fresno, California, to be aired on DAZN:
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Weigh-in report from Fresno, California
Weigh-in report for tonight's featured bouts from Fresno, California, to be aired on DAZN:
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Errol Spence and Derrick James take their dispute to court |
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It looks like the relationship between trainer Derrick James and former welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. is irretrievably broken. The two have filed dueling lawsuits against each other in Texas state court, with James claiming Spence underpaid him by millions of dollars, particularly on Spence's last fight, a multi-million dollar payday in a unification fight against Terence Crawford fight last July. Unless there is a written contract that states something different, a trainer normally receives ten percent of a boxer's purse. In this case, James is not alleging a written contract, but rather, he claims Spence received substantially more payments for the Crawford fight than what was listed on Spence's official bout agreements submitted to the boxing commission and sanctioning body. James's legal position is that he should receive ten percent of the true payment amount to Spence, not just the lower figure listed on the bout contract. Often times, an artificially low number is put on a bout contract to reduce sanctioning fees and tax withholding. James is alleging the discrepancy is so big that the he is entitled to up to five million more than what Spence paid him. Spence also filed a lawsuit, seeking a declaration that he doesn't owe James anything.
Spence was resoundingly defeated by Crawford and has no fights currently scheduled.
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Errol Spence and Derrick James take their dispute to court
It looks like the relationship between trainer Derrick James and former welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. is irretrievably broken. The two have filed dueling lawsuits against each other in Texas state court, with James claiming Spence underpaid him by millions of dollars, particularly on Spence's last fight, a multi-million dollar payday in a unification fight against Terence Crawford fight last July. Unless there is a written contract that states something different, a trainer normally receives ten percent of a boxer's purse. In this case, James is not alleging a written contract, but rather, he claims Spence received substantially more payments for the Crawford fight than what was listed on Spence's official bout agreements submitted to the boxing commission and sanctioning body. James's legal position is that he should receive ten percent of the true payment amount to Spence, not just the lower figure listed on the bout contract. Often times, an artificially low number is put on a bout contract to reduce sanctioning fees and tax withholding. James is alleging the discrepancy is so big that the he is entitled to up to five million more than what Spence paid him. Spence also filed a lawsuit, seeking a declaration that he doesn't owe James anything.
Spence was resoundingly defeated by Crawford and has no fights currently scheduled.
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Regulatory board: WBA does not take adequate steps to prevent potential fixed fights |
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The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is requiring all Ontario-registered sportsbook [sports gambling] operators to stop offering and accepting wagers on World Boxing Association (WBA) events, effective immediately. This measure is being taken to protect the Ontario betting public following concerns that WBA-sanctioned boxing matches are not adequately being safeguarded against match-fixing and insider betting. Since December 2023, the AGCO has been conducting a comprehensive review of suspicious wagering activity on a WBA-sanctioned [regional] title fight between Yoenis Tellez and Livan Navarro that was held in Orlando, Florida. Suspicious betting patterns on the bout lasting over 5.5 rounds were reported to the AGCO by two registered independent integrity monitors and detected in Ontario by a registered igaming operator. Media reports also alleged that Tellez’s Manager placed $110,000 on the match lasting longer than 5.5 rounds at a Florida casino. The bout ended with Tellez knocking out Navarro in the tenth round.
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Regulatory board: WBA does not take adequate steps to prevent potential fixed fights
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is requiring all Ontario-registered sportsbook [sports gambling] operators to stop offering and accepting wagers on World Boxing Association (WBA) events, effective immediately. This measure is being taken to protect the Ontario betting public following concerns that WBA-sanctioned boxing matches are not adequately being safeguarded against match-fixing and insider betting. Since December 2023, the AGCO has been conducting a comprehensive review of suspicious wagering activity on a WBA-sanctioned [regional] title fight between Yoenis Tellez and Livan Navarro that was held in Orlando, Florida. Suspicious betting patterns on the bout lasting over 5.5 rounds were reported to the AGCO by two registered independent integrity monitors and detected in Ontario by a registered igaming operator. Media reports also alleged that Tellez’s Manager placed $110,000 on the match lasting longer than 5.5 rounds at a Florida casino. The bout ended with Tellez knocking out Navarro in the tenth round.
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Junior Younan signs with Star Boxing |
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Star Boxing has announced the signing of super middleweight Junior Younan to an exclusive promotional contract. Younan, age 28 and from Brooklyn, New York, is 19-0-1 with 11 knockouts. “I am super excited to be part of Star Boxing. As a fighter who was born and raised in New York, I feel like it’s a natural fit. Thank you to Joe DeGuardia for the opportunity and I promise to deliver many special nights of boxing,” said Younan. Younan’s first bout for Star Boxing will be announced in the coming days.
“We are very excited about signing Junior, who is extremely talented and blessed with fast hands and boxing aptitude. We are looking forward to having him on our shows and will announce his next fight within the next couple of days. We plan to keep him busy and by the end of the year feel he will be ready for anyone in the division. The fight we would love to make is with Edgar Berlanga, a true ‘Battle of Brooklyn’, it would be a huge attraction here, and a win would have him in the front of the line for Canelo (Alvarez), (David) Morrell, (David) Benavidez, all of the champions at 168,” said Star Boxing President, Joe DeGuardia
Younan was a decorated amateur boxer who compiled a 90-5 record before turning professional in 2013 at the age of 18. Once dubbed by The New York Times as "a boxing prodigy" as a 10-year-old, Younan was a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion, the 2011 National Junior Olympic championship, and at one point was the No. 1-rated junior boxer in his weight class by USA Boxing.
Younan turned professional on November 9, 2013, with a first-round stoppage over Kenneth Taylor Schmitz in Brooklyn. On his way to his undefeated record, Younan has amassed some quality wins, including defeats over tough seasoned fighters such as Mike Guy and Dauren Yeleinusinov at the Barclays Center (Brooklyn, NY). In his last outing, Younan won a unanimous decision over Ramses Agaton on November 24, 2023, in Cancun, Mexico.
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Junior Younan signs with Star Boxing
Star Boxing has announced the signing of super middleweight Junior Younan to an exclusive promotional contract. Younan, age 28 and from Brooklyn, New York, is 19-0-1 with 11 knockouts. “I am super excited to be part of Star Boxing. As a fighter who was born and raised in New York, I feel like it’s a natural fit. Thank you to Joe DeGuardia for the opportunity and I promise to deliver many special nights of boxing,” said Younan. Younan’s first bout for Star Boxing will be announced in the coming days.
“We are very excited about signing Junior, who is extremely talented and blessed with fast hands and boxing aptitude. We are looking forward to having him on our shows and will announce his next fight within the next couple of days. We plan to keep him busy and by the end of the year feel he will be ready for anyone in the division. The fight we would love to make is with Edgar Berlanga, a true ‘Battle of Brooklyn’, it would be a huge attraction here, and a win would have him in the front of the line for Canelo (Alvarez), (David) Morrell, (David) Benavidez, all of the champions at 168,” said Star Boxing President, Joe DeGuardia
Younan was a decorated amateur boxer who compiled a 90-5 record before turning professional in 2013 at the age of 18. Once dubbed by The New York Times as "a boxing prodigy" as a 10-year-old, Younan was a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion, the 2011 National Junior Olympic championship, and at one point was the No. 1-rated junior boxer in his weight class by USA Boxing.
Younan turned professional on November 9, 2013, with a first-round stoppage over Kenneth Taylor Schmitz in Brooklyn. On his way to his undefeated record, Younan has amassed some quality wins, including defeats over tough seasoned fighters such as Mike Guy and Dauren Yeleinusinov at the Barclays Center (Brooklyn, NY). In his last outing, Younan won a unanimous decision over Ramses Agaton on November 24, 2023, in Cancun, Mexico.
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Weigh-in report from Pennsylvania |
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Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's show in Washington, Pennsylvania:
Lyubomyr "The Demolition Man" Pinchuk 206.8 pounds -vs.- Andrew Satterfield 241.4;
Ivan Dancha 152.4 vs. Jerome "Thoroughbred" Baxter 151.6;
Rosalindo Morales 133 vs. Marcello Williams 133.4;
Teddy Mrkonja 134.8 vs. Tyler Pacheco 135.4;
Joseph Turk 212.6 vs. Skyler Mauller 200.4; and
Brian "Big Beauty" Mowry 250.4 vs. Daniel Fry 224.2.
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Weigh-in report from Pennsylvania
Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's show in Washington, Pennsylvania:
Lyubomyr "The Demolition Man" Pinchuk 206.8 pounds -vs.- Andrew Satterfield 241.4;
Ivan Dancha 152.4 vs. Jerome "Thoroughbred" Baxter 151.6;
Rosalindo Morales 133 vs. Marcello Williams 133.4;
Teddy Mrkonja 134.8 vs. Tyler Pacheco 135.4;
Joseph Turk 212.6 vs. Skyler Mauller 200.4; and
Brian "Big Beauty" Mowry 250.4 vs. Daniel Fry 224.2.
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Marlen Esparza loses title on the scales |
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Marlen Esparza (pictured) lost the WBA flyweight title on the scales. She failed to make the 112-pound weight limit today (Friday). However, she will still step into the ring to face Celeste Alaniz this Saturday but only the Argentinean will have the eligibility to leave the ring as a champion. Esparza weighed in at 114.2 pounds on the scales, considerably above the 112 weight regulations. Alaniz weighed in at 111.4 and will be the only one with the option to fight for the championship. WBA rules dictate that “If the champion does not make the limit weight of the division after the two (2) additional hours granted, [she] will lose the title. If the challenger makes the weight and wins the bout, [she] shall be declared champion. If the champion who did not make the weight is the winner of the bout, the title will be declared vacant.”
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Marlen Esparza loses title on the scales
Marlen Esparza (pictured) lost the WBA flyweight title on the scales. She failed to make the 112-pound weight limit today (Friday). However, she will still step into the ring to face Celeste Alaniz this Saturday but only the Argentinean will have the eligibility to leave the ring as a champion. Esparza weighed in at 114.2 pounds on the scales, considerably above the 112 weight regulations. Alaniz weighed in at 111.4 and will be the only one with the option to fight for the championship. WBA rules dictate that “If the champion does not make the limit weight of the division after the two (2) additional hours granted, [she] will lose the title. If the challenger makes the weight and wins the bout, [she] shall be declared champion. If the champion who did not make the weight is the winner of the bout, the title will be declared vacant.”
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Report: heavyweight Ardi Ndembo dies from ring injury |
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Team Combat League confirmed that heavyweight Ardi Ndembo has passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a one-round bout earlier this month. His pro record was 8-0 with his injuries sustained against Nestor Santana (Team Combat League bouts do not count on boxers' official records since they are only one rounders). Team Combat's social media account stated, "the boxing community mourns the loss of Ardi Ndembo. Originally from Brazzaville, Congo, Ardi Ndembo was a 27 year-old father of two. Please take a moment to send your strength, prayers and support to the Ndembo family at this challenging time." A GoFundMe page has been set up for donations to his family.
Viva Promotions added, "We at Viva Promotions mourn the loss of Ardi Ndembo, a talented Congolese boxer who tragically passed away after a knockout in a Team Combat League match on April 5th. He remained in an induced coma until his untimely death. RIP Ardi Ndembo!"
Boxingtalk sends it deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ardi Ndembo.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
APRIL 8, 2024: Heavyweight Ardi Ndembo was knocked out by Nestor Santana in Team Combat League action over the weekend and is reportedly fighting for his life. Eric Herrholz, the founder of of Fight.TV, posted the following grim news on social media: "In Team Combat League action, undefeated heavyweight Ardi Ndembo (8-0) was brutally knocked out by Nestor Santana. Ndembo remained on the canvas for over ten minutes motionless. He was eventually carried out on a stretcher. League sources told me that he is currently in a medically induced coma and the prognosis is not great. Hoping for a miracle here. He moved to the USA from Congo, apparently hoping to follow in the footsteps of [MMA champion turned heavyweight boxer] Francis Ngannou."
Team Combat League's website shows an April 5th competition between the Las Vegas Hustle and Miami Assassins taking place in Coral Gables, Florida. Ndembo is listed as 8-0 for his career with his last full fight taking place on March 16th, a sixth-round TKO of Christia Larrondo Garcia in Mexico. Now in its second season, Team Combat League's format has boxers face each other in one-round contests that do not count towards boxers' official records. Ndembo had not fought any recorded bouts for Team Combat League prior to April 5th, the Miami team's season opener.
On its Instagram account, Team Combat League posted the following message: "Team Combat League extends its thoughts and prayers to Ardi Ndembo along with his family and friends. We kindly ask all to respect his family's request for privacy at this time."
Ndembo's homepage had a brief bio posted: "Ardi Ndembo da Sylva) is an undefeated professional boxer hotly tipped as a future contender for the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.Born into humble origins on the banks of the river Congo, as a young boy Ardi grew up to the bedtime storytelling of the legendary Rumble in the Jungle bout. Inspired by role models such as Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, Ardi developed his passion for boxing and began to show exceptional talent as a schoolboy in his native Brazzaville.
"Ardi, together with charitable endeavour, Future Champs, and in collaboration with other charities from around the globe, has launched several successful community gym building programs that have become central to disadvantaged communities and youth development programs within townships in Sub Saharan Africa. An inspiration and role model to younger generations across Africa and beyond, Ardi's Fair Play Initiative and Ardi's Fitness - Mind, Body and Soul not-for-profit community lifestyle programs are successfully challenging conventional government community development initiatives in bringing positive results in youth development and community spirit.
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Report: heavyweight Ardi Ndembo dies from ring injury
Team Combat League confirmed that heavyweight Ardi Ndembo has passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a one-round bout earlier this month. His pro record was 8-0 with his injuries sustained against Nestor Santana (Team Combat League bouts do not count on boxers' official records since they are only one rounders). Team Combat's social media account stated, "the boxing community mourns the loss of Ardi Ndembo. Originally from Brazzaville, Congo, Ardi Ndembo was a 27 year-old father of two. Please take a moment to send your strength, prayers and support to the Ndembo family at this challenging time." A GoFundMe page has been set up for donations to his family.
Viva Promotions added, "We at Viva Promotions mourn the loss of Ardi Ndembo, a talented Congolese boxer who tragically passed away after a knockout in a Team Combat League match on April 5th. He remained in an induced coma until his untimely death. RIP Ardi Ndembo!"
Boxingtalk sends it deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ardi Ndembo.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
APRIL 8, 2024: Heavyweight Ardi Ndembo was knocked out by Nestor Santana in Team Combat League action over the weekend and is reportedly fighting for his life. Eric Herrholz, the founder of of Fight.TV, posted the following grim news on social media: "In Team Combat League action, undefeated heavyweight Ardi Ndembo (8-0) was brutally knocked out by Nestor Santana. Ndembo remained on the canvas for over ten minutes motionless. He was eventually carried out on a stretcher. League sources told me that he is currently in a medically induced coma and the prognosis is not great. Hoping for a miracle here. He moved to the USA from Congo, apparently hoping to follow in the footsteps of [MMA champion turned heavyweight boxer] Francis Ngannou."
Team Combat League's website shows an April 5th competition between the Las Vegas Hustle and Miami Assassins taking place in Coral Gables, Florida. Ndembo is listed as 8-0 for his career with his last full fight taking place on March 16th, a sixth-round TKO of Christia Larrondo Garcia in Mexico. Now in its second season, Team Combat League's format has boxers face each other in one-round contests that do not count towards boxers' official records. Ndembo had not fought any recorded bouts for Team Combat League prior to April 5th, the Miami team's season opener.
On its Instagram account, Team Combat League posted the following message: "Team Combat League extends its thoughts and prayers to Ardi Ndembo along with his family and friends. We kindly ask all to respect his family's request for privacy at this time."
Ndembo's homepage had a brief bio posted: "Ardi Ndembo da Sylva) is an undefeated professional boxer hotly tipped as a future contender for the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.Born into humble origins on the banks of the river Congo, as a young boy Ardi grew up to the bedtime storytelling of the legendary Rumble in the Jungle bout. Inspired by role models such as Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, Ardi developed his passion for boxing and began to show exceptional talent as a schoolboy in his native Brazzaville.
"Ardi, together with charitable endeavour, Future Champs, and in collaboration with other charities from around the globe, has launched several successful community gym building programs that have become central to disadvantaged communities and youth development programs within townships in Sub Saharan Africa. An inspiration and role model to younger generations across Africa and beyond, Ardi's Fair Play Initiative and Ardi's Fitness - Mind, Body and Soul not-for-profit community lifestyle programs are successfully challenging conventional government community development initiatives in bringing positive results in youth development and community spirit.
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IBA running big pro show in Almaty this weekend |
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Nine matches have been announced for the upcoming IBA Champions’ Night in Almaty, Kazakhstan on April 27th. In the featured bout, home favorite Talgat Shayken faces Saidjamshid Jafarov of Uzbekistan over eight rounds at 156 pounds. Competing at 71kg, the pair headline a mammoth card, with Shayken having a record of 9-0 and and Jafarov coming off a silver medal at the world amateur championships in 2023 and back-to-back Asian titles too. The chief support sees 2019 amateur world champion from the home nation, Bekzad Nurdauletov, take on Luis Antonio Tejeda (9-0-1) from Dominican Republic at light heavyweight. Home boxer Ali Akhmedov, who has won 19 of his 20 professional fights, goes ten rounds with Carlos Rivero (26-3-1) from Venezuela at super middleweight in the first of three matches on the main card.
In the only match of the night not featuring Kazakh boxers, Ecuador’s Abel Mina (17-3-1) and Magomed Madiev (16-1-3) from Russia are to touch gloves at 165 pounds, following on from Kazakhstan’s Farukh Tokhtassunov’s (13-10) middleweight bout against Russian Yuri Osipov (4-0) Asian Games champion Davlat Boltaev from Tajikistan will go six rounds with Kazakhstan’s Sagyndyk Togambay (39-10) in the cruiserweight division.
Kazakh boxer Bekman Soilybayev will box against Davit Azizyan from Armenia at lighweight, while the lightest fight of the night sees Kazakhstan’s 2021 world amatuer championt Temirtas Zhussupov face Anvarzhan Khodzhiev from Kyrgyzstan as both are to make their professional debuts.
An eight-round fight will end the undefeated professional record of either Adlan Selmurzayev of Kazakhstan or Artush Hovhannisyan from Armenia in a light heavyweight contest that opens the evening. Selmurzayev has won all six of his professional bouts in Almaty, while Hovhannisyan has five wins to his name, including four knockouts.All funds raised from the tickets sales will be donated to the victims of floods in Kazakhstan.
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IBA running big pro show in Almaty this weekend
Nine matches have been announced for the upcoming IBA Champions’ Night in Almaty, Kazakhstan on April 27th. In the featured bout, home favorite Talgat Shayken faces Saidjamshid Jafarov of Uzbekistan over eight rounds at 156 pounds. Competing at 71kg, the pair headline a mammoth card, with Shayken having a record of 9-0 and and Jafarov coming off a silver medal at the world amateur championships in 2023 and back-to-back Asian titles too. The chief support sees 2019 amateur world champion from the home nation, Bekzad Nurdauletov, take on Luis Antonio Tejeda (9-0-1) from Dominican Republic at light heavyweight. Home boxer Ali Akhmedov, who has won 19 of his 20 professional fights, goes ten rounds with Carlos Rivero (26-3-1) from Venezuela at super middleweight in the first of three matches on the main card.
In the only match of the night not featuring Kazakh boxers, Ecuador’s Abel Mina (17-3-1) and Magomed Madiev (16-1-3) from Russia are to touch gloves at 165 pounds, following on from Kazakhstan’s Farukh Tokhtassunov’s (13-10) middleweight bout against Russian Yuri Osipov (4-0) Asian Games champion Davlat Boltaev from Tajikistan will go six rounds with Kazakhstan’s Sagyndyk Togambay (39-10) in the cruiserweight division.
Kazakh boxer Bekman Soilybayev will box against Davit Azizyan from Armenia at lighweight, while the lightest fight of the night sees Kazakhstan’s 2021 world amatuer championt Temirtas Zhussupov face Anvarzhan Khodzhiev from Kyrgyzstan as both are to make their professional debuts.
An eight-round fight will end the undefeated professional record of either Adlan Selmurzayev of Kazakhstan or Artush Hovhannisyan from Armenia in a light heavyweight contest that opens the evening. Selmurzayev has won all six of his professional bouts in Almaty, while Hovhannisyan has five wins to his name, including four knockouts.All funds raised from the tickets sales will be donated to the victims of floods in Kazakhstan.
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May 4th undercard presser quotes |
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Fighters competing on the May 4th undercard prior to the Saul "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia would super middleweight championship pay-per-view event showed off their skills at a media workout on Thursday. Featured during the workout were Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ interim WBC welterweight title. Also participating were former champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s interim WBC featherweight yitle, and two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battles WBA welterweight champion Eimantas Stanionis in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PTHere is what the boxers had to say Thursday from the Pound 4 Pound Gym:
MARIO BARRIOS
“We know he’s coming from the Maidana fighting family, so we know he’s coming with it. He’s trying to step out from his brother’s shadow and I just have to make sure I’m on top of everything. I have no doubt that we’ll come out victorious if I fight my fight.
“I plan to accomplish as much as I can at 147 pounds. This is where I feel comfortable and strong and I’m going to try to stay here as long as I can.
“Having a child on the way makes me really understand when people say that ‘I’m fighting for something extra’.
“Las Vegas is the best place for training camp. I get the best work here. I have quality sparring at all times and it’s really beneficial. Camp has been great and I’m really ready for it to be over.
“We’ve had a long camp and I’m excited for a big opportunity on a big Mexican card. I’m honored to be a part of it and I’m looking forward to giving the fans a great fight.
FABIAN MAIDANA
“I know Mario Barrios and I’m not worried about his height. We’re going to give the fans a great fight and all I’m worried about is walking away with that belt.
“It’s very exciting to be fighting on this card with Canelo. It’s very motivating knowing that he’s watching. I’m ready to put on a show for everyone supporting me.
“I’m very happy to be in this position and I can’t wait to step into the ring in Las Vegas. I’m very familiar with Barrios from being on the same cards as him before. I’m ready for May 4th.”
BRANDON FIGUEROA
“My style is very unique and there’s a reason why I switch stances so much. There’s a method to the madness. People think I just come forward and punch, but there’s a meticulousness to that. I want to confuse my opponent and not give him the same look. I’m a multi-dimensional fighter and that’s why I’m so dangerous.
“These are the moments that every boxer waits for. You put in all the hard work and go through everything in fight week and all the nerves leading up to the fight, it’s amazing. That’s why boxing is a singular sport. At the end of the day, it’s only you in that ring. I love every aspect of it and I’m very excited.
“You have to get out of your comfort zone and I’m out here in Las Vegas away from family and home. I miss my people back home, but I have to do what I have to do. The level of sparring and training here is insane, and that’s what I’m about. I put in the hard work to get results. I can’t wait to put it all together.
“Training camp has been amazing. We’ve been out here getting ready for this big opportunity on the Canelo undercard and we’re excited. I’m very thankful for everyone who welcomed me and my family to Las Vegas.”
JESSIE MAGDALENO
“Training camp has been great. I’ve been putting in a lot of work and staying focused. Just like everybody here, I can’t wait to get in there.
“I took this fight because he’s got the perfect style for what I bring to the ring. It’s definitely going to be an action packed fight.
“I like to pick my shots and create openings. Figueroa is an aggressive fighter who comes forward, so it won’t be hard to find him. I just have to stick to my game plan and be smart in there.
“I plan on taking advantage of whatever stance he uses in the ring. I have to hit him when I get him square. I have to take advantage of my opportunities and that’s what we’ve been working on.
“I learned that I have to use my experience in the ring. We learn from our losses. I always take them as a learning experience. Ultimately it led me to this fight here on May 4.”
GABRIEL MAESTRE
“On May 4th you’re going to see the best Gabriel Maestre that you’ve ever seen. I’m going to put on a show and go to war. You don’t want to miss it.
“Stanionis and I fought in 2015 in the amateurs and it didn’t go the way I wanted, but now I get a chance to redeem myself. I want to give the fans a great fight that they can enjoy. I’m planning to come out on top.
“Stanionis has been inactive and I had two big fights last year where I was able to display my skills and knock out my opponent. I hope it’s an advantage and I hope to show that in the ring on May 4th.
“I’m really happy and couldn’t be more excited to be on this great card headlined by Canelo vs. Munguia. I’m super excited.”
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May 4th undercard presser quotes
Fighters competing on the May 4th undercard prior to the Saul "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia would super middleweight championship pay-per-view event showed off their skills at a media workout on Thursday. Featured during the workout were Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ interim WBC welterweight title. Also participating were former champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s interim WBC featherweight yitle, and two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battles WBA welterweight champion Eimantas Stanionis in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PTHere is what the boxers had to say Thursday from the Pound 4 Pound Gym:
MARIO BARRIOS
“We know he’s coming from the Maidana fighting family, so we know he’s coming with it. He’s trying to step out from his brother’s shadow and I just have to make sure I’m on top of everything. I have no doubt that we’ll come out victorious if I fight my fight.
“I plan to accomplish as much as I can at 147 pounds. This is where I feel comfortable and strong and I’m going to try to stay here as long as I can.
“Having a child on the way makes me really understand when people say that ‘I’m fighting for something extra’.
“Las Vegas is the best place for training camp. I get the best work here. I have quality sparring at all times and it’s really beneficial. Camp has been great and I’m really ready for it to be over.
“We’ve had a long camp and I’m excited for a big opportunity on a big Mexican card. I’m honored to be a part of it and I’m looking forward to giving the fans a great fight.
FABIAN MAIDANA
“I know Mario Barrios and I’m not worried about his height. We’re going to give the fans a great fight and all I’m worried about is walking away with that belt.
“It’s very exciting to be fighting on this card with Canelo. It’s very motivating knowing that he’s watching. I’m ready to put on a show for everyone supporting me.
“I’m very happy to be in this position and I can’t wait to step into the ring in Las Vegas. I’m very familiar with Barrios from being on the same cards as him before. I’m ready for May 4th.”
BRANDON FIGUEROA
“My style is very unique and there’s a reason why I switch stances so much. There’s a method to the madness. People think I just come forward and punch, but there’s a meticulousness to that. I want to confuse my opponent and not give him the same look. I’m a multi-dimensional fighter and that’s why I’m so dangerous.
“These are the moments that every boxer waits for. You put in all the hard work and go through everything in fight week and all the nerves leading up to the fight, it’s amazing. That’s why boxing is a singular sport. At the end of the day, it’s only you in that ring. I love every aspect of it and I’m very excited.
“You have to get out of your comfort zone and I’m out here in Las Vegas away from family and home. I miss my people back home, but I have to do what I have to do. The level of sparring and training here is insane, and that’s what I’m about. I put in the hard work to get results. I can’t wait to put it all together.
“Training camp has been amazing. We’ve been out here getting ready for this big opportunity on the Canelo undercard and we’re excited. I’m very thankful for everyone who welcomed me and my family to Las Vegas.”
JESSIE MAGDALENO
“Training camp has been great. I’ve been putting in a lot of work and staying focused. Just like everybody here, I can’t wait to get in there.
“I took this fight because he’s got the perfect style for what I bring to the ring. It’s definitely going to be an action packed fight.
“I like to pick my shots and create openings. Figueroa is an aggressive fighter who comes forward, so it won’t be hard to find him. I just have to stick to my game plan and be smart in there.
“I plan on taking advantage of whatever stance he uses in the ring. I have to hit him when I get him square. I have to take advantage of my opportunities and that’s what we’ve been working on.
“I learned that I have to use my experience in the ring. We learn from our losses. I always take them as a learning experience. Ultimately it led me to this fight here on May 4.”
GABRIEL MAESTRE
“On May 4th you’re going to see the best Gabriel Maestre that you’ve ever seen. I’m going to put on a show and go to war. You don’t want to miss it.
“Stanionis and I fought in 2015 in the amateurs and it didn’t go the way I wanted, but now I get a chance to redeem myself. I want to give the fans a great fight that they can enjoy. I’m planning to come out on top.
“Stanionis has been inactive and I had two big fights last year where I was able to display my skills and knock out my opponent. I hope it’s an advantage and I hope to show that in the ring on May 4th.
“I’m really happy and couldn’t be more excited to be on this great card headlined by Canelo vs. Munguia. I’m super excited.”
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PPV.com to provide alternate stream for Alvarez vs. Munguia |
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PPV.com, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams in the U.S. and Canada, an action-packed Cinco de Mayo weekend fistic fiesta, featuring the twelve-round world super middleweight championship battle between undisputed champion Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs) and the undefeated former junior middleweight title holder Jaime Munguía (43-0, 34 KOs). The all-Mexican match-up takes place Saturday, May 4th beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. The Canelo-Munguía world championship event will emanate live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Priced at $89.99, it can be ordered by clicking here.
Canelo vs. Munguía is the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants, harkening back to the great México vs. México matchups of the past including classics such as Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera, Carlos Zárate vs. Alfonso Zamora, and Rafael Marquez vs. Israel Vazquez.
“Despite the clear identity logic of this -- Mexican puncher-boxer vs. Mexican master boxer-puncher -- Canelo, for quite a while, projected disinterest. Now that Munguia has boosted his profile with a couple of recent notable wins, Canelo is interested. Canelo's proven chin makes him a solid favorite, but as last Saturday night demonstrated, boxing is still the theater of the unexpected," said Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be co-hosting the exclusive viewer chat, in real time, during the PPV.com broadcast of the HD live stream.
Joining Lampley on the live viewer chat will be award-winning journalist Lance Pugmire, and "Inside Boxing Live” podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and former WBO junior welterweight champion Chris Algieri. They will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.com's website and social platforms.
Canobbio and Algieri have moved their popular Inside Boxing Live podcast to PPV.com, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.
PPV.com which does not require a subscription, will offer Canelo vs. Munguía to viewers in the U.S. and Canada. iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.comM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.
JIM LAMPLEY
Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class. He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.
LANCE PUGMIRE
Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the BWAA's highest honor. He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, The Athletic, and USA Today. He currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.
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PPV.com to provide alternate stream for Alvarez vs. Munguia
PPV.com, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams in the U.S. and Canada, an action-packed Cinco de Mayo weekend fistic fiesta, featuring the twelve-round world super middleweight championship battle between undisputed champion Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs) and the undefeated former junior middleweight title holder Jaime Munguía (43-0, 34 KOs). The all-Mexican match-up takes place Saturday, May 4th beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. The Canelo-Munguía world championship event will emanate live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Priced at $89.99, it can be ordered by clicking here.
Canelo vs. Munguía is the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants, harkening back to the great México vs. México matchups of the past including classics such as Erik Morales vs. Marco Antonio Barrera, Carlos Zárate vs. Alfonso Zamora, and Rafael Marquez vs. Israel Vazquez.
“Despite the clear identity logic of this -- Mexican puncher-boxer vs. Mexican master boxer-puncher -- Canelo, for quite a while, projected disinterest. Now that Munguia has boosted his profile with a couple of recent notable wins, Canelo is interested. Canelo's proven chin makes him a solid favorite, but as last Saturday night demonstrated, boxing is still the theater of the unexpected," said Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be co-hosting the exclusive viewer chat, in real time, during the PPV.com broadcast of the HD live stream.
Joining Lampley on the live viewer chat will be award-winning journalist Lance Pugmire, and "Inside Boxing Live” podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and former WBO junior welterweight champion Chris Algieri. They will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.com's website and social platforms.
Canobbio and Algieri have moved their popular Inside Boxing Live podcast to PPV.com, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.
PPV.com which does not require a subscription, will offer Canelo vs. Munguía to viewers in the U.S. and Canada. iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.comM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.
JIM LAMPLEY
Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class. He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.
LANCE PUGMIRE
Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the BWAA's highest honor. He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, The Athletic, and USA Today. He currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.
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Mariana Juarez to take a victory lap in Mexico City |
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This Friday, Mariana Juárez returns to the ring at the Hipódromo de las Américas Forum in Mexico City. For the 44 year-old Juarez (55-13-4), it is the beginning of the closing of a cycle as the former two-division champion announced that this will be her last year as a professional boxer. Juarez will be facing South Africa's Matsidisho ‘The Tiger’ Mokebisi (18-11-2) in the super bantamweight division . For Matsidisho it is an honor to face one of the great icons of women’s boxing; However, her dream is to wear a world title belt, so despite the respect and admiration she has for Juarez, she will fight hard when the bell rings. Today both fighters presented the official weigh-in, with Juárez coming in at 121.9 pounds and Mokebisi at 121.2. The card is presented by Latin KO Promotions, directed by Oswaldo Küchle, in association with Cancún Boxing by Pepe Gómez and Boxing Time by Memo Rocha, and will be broadcast in Mexico through Channel 5 on Box Televisa at 10 o’clock at night.
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Mariana Juarez to take a victory lap in Mexico City
This Friday, Mariana Juárez returns to the ring at the Hipódromo de las Américas Forum in Mexico City. For the 44 year-old Juarez (55-13-4), it is the beginning of the closing of a cycle as the former two-division champion announced that this will be her last year as a professional boxer. Juarez will be facing South Africa's Matsidisho ‘The Tiger’ Mokebisi (18-11-2) in the super bantamweight division . For Matsidisho it is an honor to face one of the great icons of women’s boxing; However, her dream is to wear a world title belt, so despite the respect and admiration she has for Juarez, she will fight hard when the bell rings. Today both fighters presented the official weigh-in, with Juárez coming in at 121.9 pounds and Mokebisi at 121.2. The card is presented by Latin KO Promotions, directed by Oswaldo Küchle, in association with Cancún Boxing by Pepe Gómez and Boxing Time by Memo Rocha, and will be broadcast in Mexico through Channel 5 on Box Televisa at 10 o’clock at night.
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Thailand boxing update |
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Angelina Lukas TKO5 Mamta Singh..... Thailand-based Kazakh Angelina Lukas defeated India's Mamta Singh in Bangkok in a super fylweight bout on Thursday. The 27 year-old Lukas was a level above Singh, and set the tone from the start, punching hard and frequently to both body and head. In round five the outgunned Singh basically raised her hands in surrender at the same time as referee Sipho Ndongeni from South Africa decided he had seen enough, stopping the fight at 1:07 of the round. With the victory, Lukas improved her professional record to 9-1 with 5 KOs, while Singh, also age 27, drops to 5-2 with 2 KOs.
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Thailand boxing update
Angelina Lukas TKO5 Mamta Singh..... Thailand-based Kazakh Angelina Lukas defeated India's Mamta Singh in Bangkok in a super fylweight bout on Thursday. The 27 year-old Lukas was a level above Singh, and set the tone from the start, punching hard and frequently to both body and head. In round five the outgunned Singh basically raised her hands in surrender at the same time as referee Sipho Ndongeni from South Africa decided he had seen enough, stopping the fight at 1:07 of the round. With the victory, Lukas improved her professional record to 9-1 with 5 KOs, while Singh, also age 27, drops to 5-2 with 2 KOs.
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DKP sets date for Broner vs. Cobbs and Mikaeljan vs. Rozicki |
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Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King and Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory will present an evening of boxing featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (pictured) vs. Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) on Friday, June 7th at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. This high-stakes matchup marks Cobbs' return to the ring for the first time in nearly two years, facing off against Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs), the former four-division champion from Cincinnati.
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DKP sets date for Broner vs. Cobbs and Mikaeljan vs. Rozicki
Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King and Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory will present an evening of boxing featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (pictured) vs. Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) on Friday, June 7th at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. This high-stakes matchup marks Cobbs' return to the ring for the first time in nearly two years, facing off against Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs), the former four-division champion from Cincinnati.
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Cardenas follows trainer's order perfectly |
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Ramon Cardenas KO9 Eduardo Ramirez... Junior featherweight Ramon Cardenas (25-1) knocked out Eduardo 'Koreano' Ramirez (22-3-2) in the ninth round of a close fight. Cardenas landed a left to the liver to win the ProBox TV main event in Plant City, Florida. The knockout came less than three minutes after Cardenas' trainer Joel Diaz ordered him to "get your ass in there and knock this f*ckin guy out!"
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Cardenas follows trainer's order perfectly
Ramon Cardenas KO9 Eduardo Ramirez... Junior featherweight Ramon Cardenas (25-1) knocked out Eduardo 'Koreano' Ramirez (22-3-2) in the ninth round of a close fight. Cardenas landed a left to the liver to win the ProBox TV main event in Plant City, Florida. The knockout came less than three minutes after Cardenas' trainer Joel Diaz ordered him to "get your ass in there and knock this f*ckin guy out!"
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1968 Olympic champ Francisco "Morochito" Rodríguez dies at 78 |
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The WBC reports that former Olympic gold medal winner Francisco "Morochito" Rodríguez died at the age of 78. At the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City Rodriguez represented Venezuela and won the gold medal in the inaugural men's light flyweight competition. In, he won gold at the 1967 and 1971 Pan American Games and carried the flag for Venezuela at the opening ceremony at the 1972 Summer Olympics. He never turned pro. Boxingtalk joins the WBC in sending its sympathies to the friends and family of Olympic champion Francisco "Morochito" Rodríguez.
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1968 Olympic champ Francisco "Morochito" Rodríguez dies at 78
The WBC reports that former Olympic gold medal winner Francisco "Morochito" Rodríguez died at the age of 78. At the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City Rodriguez represented Venezuela and won the gold medal in the inaugural men's light flyweight competition. In, he won gold at the 1967 and 1971 Pan American Games and carried the flag for Venezuela at the opening ceremony at the 1972 Summer Olympics. He never turned pro. Boxingtalk joins the WBC in sending its sympathies to the friends and family of Olympic champion Francisco "Morochito" Rodríguez.
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Crawford to challenge Madrimov in bid to become four-division champ |
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His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), announced a blockbuster world title clash as pound-for-pound superstar Terence Crawford challenges Israil Madrimov for the WBA and WBO interim junior middleweight titles on August 3rd at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) is gunning to become a four-weight champion as he moves up to 154 pounds after conquering the welterweight division with a stunning KO win over Errol Spence to be crowned the undisputed champion at 147 pounds in July. The Omaha, Nebraska star has already ruled the roost at junior welterweight and lightweight and now the pound-for-pound great is arrowing in on cementing greatness by claiming honors at a fourth weight. WBA 154-pound champion Madrimov (16-1-1 including the World Series of Boxing) is the man that stands in Crawford’s way, and the Uzbek champion makes his first defense of his title against the toughest opposition possible after winning the belt in spectacular fashion in his last outing in Saudi Arabia. The 29-year-old took on Magomed Kurbanov for the vacant title in Riyadh in March, and stopped the Russian in five rounds with a dominant performance to continue his impressive unbeaten run in the paid ranks, following a glittering amateur career.
Alalshikh said: “We are delighted for Riyadh Season to host its first overseas event in Los Angeles and this fight in the United States is a special one to mark this moment. We want to give people around the world the opportunity to enjoy their own Riyadh Season experience and this is exactly what we hope to achieve by staging this and also future events around the world.” “I’m proud to partner with Riyadh Season and HE Turki Alalshikh on their first boxing event in the United States. I cannot wait to get back in the ring in my fourth weight class and remind the world why I’m the best pound for pound fighter in the world,” said Crawford. “Israil Madrimov is a tremendous and entertaining fighter, but on August 3rd, he will be my next victim. This is the Terence Crawford era.” “Terence Crawford is one of my favorite boxers and one of the best boxers in the world,” said Madrimov. “I am very excited to get this opportunity to make a statement, and I will Inshallah.” ***
The undercard for the August 3rd show is amazing. The main event sees world welterweight champion Terence Crawford moving up to challenge WBA 154-pound champion Israil Madrimov. The following fights for the same show have been announced by Matchroom: Recently crowned WBA junior welterweight champion Isaac Cruz defends his title for the first time against United States southpaw Jose Valenzuela... Two Amercian heavyweights will do battle with former unified champion Andy Ruiz (pictured) returning to the ring for the first time since a unanimous decision win against Luis Ortiz in September 2022, to face Jarrell Miller, who will be going all out to produce a winning outcome after losing his undefeated record in Riyadh in December last year.... Former WBO junior middleweight champion Tim Tszyu awaits Vergil Ortiz Jr, subject to the outcome of Ortiz's fight against Thomas Dulorme this weekend... while David Morrell of Cuba will seek to preserve his unbeaten record in a light heavyweight contest against US fighter Radivoje Kalajdzic.... Andy Cruz, the Olympic Lightweight gold medalist, continues his lightweight campaign when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran.
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Crawford to challenge Madrimov in bid to become four-division champ
His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), announced a blockbuster world title clash as pound-for-pound superstar Terence Crawford challenges Israil Madrimov for the WBA and WBO interim junior middleweight titles on August 3rd at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) is gunning to become a four-weight champion as he moves up to 154 pounds after conquering the welterweight division with a stunning KO win over Errol Spence to be crowned the undisputed champion at 147 pounds in July. The Omaha, Nebraska star has already ruled the roost at junior welterweight and lightweight and now the pound-for-pound great is arrowing in on cementing greatness by claiming honors at a fourth weight. WBA 154-pound champion Madrimov (16-1-1 including the World Series of Boxing) is the man that stands in Crawford’s way, and the Uzbek champion makes his first defense of his title against the toughest opposition possible after winning the belt in spectacular fashion in his last outing in Saudi Arabia. The 29-year-old took on Magomed Kurbanov for the vacant title in Riyadh in March, and stopped the Russian in five rounds with a dominant performance to continue his impressive unbeaten run in the paid ranks, following a glittering amateur career.
Alalshikh said: “We are delighted for Riyadh Season to host its first overseas event in Los Angeles and this fight in the United States is a special one to mark this moment. We want to give people around the world the opportunity to enjoy their own Riyadh Season experience and this is exactly what we hope to achieve by staging this and also future events around the world.” “I’m proud to partner with Riyadh Season and HE Turki Alalshikh on their first boxing event in the United States. I cannot wait to get back in the ring in my fourth weight class and remind the world why I’m the best pound for pound fighter in the world,” said Crawford. “Israil Madrimov is a tremendous and entertaining fighter, but on August 3rd, he will be my next victim. This is the Terence Crawford era.” “Terence Crawford is one of my favorite boxers and one of the best boxers in the world,” said Madrimov. “I am very excited to get this opportunity to make a statement, and I will Inshallah.” ***
The undercard for the August 3rd show is amazing. The main event sees world welterweight champion Terence Crawford moving up to challenge WBA 154-pound champion Israil Madrimov. The following fights for the same show have been announced by Matchroom: Recently crowned WBA junior welterweight champion Isaac Cruz defends his title for the first time against United States southpaw Jose Valenzuela... Two Amercian heavyweights will do battle with former unified champion Andy Ruiz (pictured) returning to the ring for the first time since a unanimous decision win against Luis Ortiz in September 2022, to face Jarrell Miller, who will be going all out to produce a winning outcome after losing his undefeated record in Riyadh in December last year.... Former WBO junior middleweight champion Tim Tszyu awaits Vergil Ortiz Jr, subject to the outcome of Ortiz's fight against Thomas Dulorme this weekend... while David Morrell of Cuba will seek to preserve his unbeaten record in a light heavyweight contest against US fighter Radivoje Kalajdzic.... Andy Cruz, the Olympic Lightweight gold medalist, continues his lightweight campaign when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran.
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Tyler Denny to defend European middleweight title in June |
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Tyler Denny will defend his European middleweight title against former British and Commonwealth Champion Felix Cash at Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England on Saturday June 22nd, live worldwide on DAZN. Denny (18-2-3, 1 KO) ripped the EBU title from Mateo Signani in Wolverhampton, England last November, stopping the veteran Italian in eight rounds to extend his winning streak to five fights. Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) hasn’t fought since he decisioned Portugal’s Celso Neves (9-5-2, 2 KOs) at the Leeds First Direct Arena back in December 2022. The unbeaten Wokingham man, once regarded as the leading middleweight in Britain, has since teamed up with renowned coach Adam Booth in Surrey and plans on making up for lost time as he sets his sights on a World Title shot by the end of the year.
Belfast welterweight Lewis Crocker (19-0, 11 KOs) looks to extend his unbeaten run when he meets Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker (13-2-1, 5 KOs) over ten rounds, the bitter lightweight grudge match between slick Newcastle boxer Cameron Vuong (4-0, 3 KOs) and Oxford’s Jordan Flynn (10-0-1, 1 KO) gets a new date and Watford’s Shannon Ryan (7-0) and Newark’s Emma Dolan (6-0, 1 KO) will create history when they become the first women to contest the British super flyweight Title, with Dolan’s Commonwealth title also on the line.
“I’m buzzing to be defending my European Title and against such a good fighter in Felix Cash,” said Denny. “Add to the fact it’s in Birmingham so the Black Country army will be out in full force to witness a great fight and one that I’m confident of winning.”
“Tyler Denny is a solid professional, but I have no time to lose,” said Cash. “My plan is to get him out of my way as quickly as possible and move on to world level.”
“I’m to be back out so soon,” said Crocker. “Thanks to Matchroom and Conlan Boxing for keeping me busy. I’m looking forward to this fight as I know Walker is the type of guy who’s going to come and meet me in the middle of the ring. He won’t be able to handle my power in his own back garden. I believe I will knock him out.”
“I’m absolutely buzzing for this fight,” said Walker. “I think it was inevitable that me and Lewis would cross paths. I’m not taking him lightly; I know he’s a phenomenal fighter. There’s a reason why he’s rated at number 2 in the UK. I jumped at the opportunity and grabbed it with both hands. A win here puts me another step forwards to where I want to go. I want to be number one in the UK and I want to clean up domestically and then push on for World Titles.”
“I can’t wait to return to the West Midland’s for what promises to be an electric night of boxing at Resorts World Arena Birmingham,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “It’s the long awaited return of former British and Commonwealth Middleweight Champion Felix Cash under the guidance of new coach Adam Booth, and he jumps straight back in at the deep end against European Champion Tyler Denny. Lewis Crocker against Conah Walker can only be an all out war and bitter rivals Cameron Vuong and Jordan Flynn will finally get it on after all of the trash talk. Shannon Ryan takes another step up when she meets Emma Dolan for the British and Commonwealth Titles. Catch it all live on DAZN.”
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Tyler Denny to defend European middleweight title in June
Tyler Denny will defend his European middleweight title against former British and Commonwealth Champion Felix Cash at Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England on Saturday June 22nd, live worldwide on DAZN. Denny (18-2-3, 1 KO) ripped the EBU title from Mateo Signani in Wolverhampton, England last November, stopping the veteran Italian in eight rounds to extend his winning streak to five fights. Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) hasn’t fought since he decisioned Portugal’s Celso Neves (9-5-2, 2 KOs) at the Leeds First Direct Arena back in December 2022. The unbeaten Wokingham man, once regarded as the leading middleweight in Britain, has since teamed up with renowned coach Adam Booth in Surrey and plans on making up for lost time as he sets his sights on a World Title shot by the end of the year.
Belfast welterweight Lewis Crocker (19-0, 11 KOs) looks to extend his unbeaten run when he meets Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker (13-2-1, 5 KOs) over ten rounds, the bitter lightweight grudge match between slick Newcastle boxer Cameron Vuong (4-0, 3 KOs) and Oxford’s Jordan Flynn (10-0-1, 1 KO) gets a new date and Watford’s Shannon Ryan (7-0) and Newark’s Emma Dolan (6-0, 1 KO) will create history when they become the first women to contest the British super flyweight Title, with Dolan’s Commonwealth title also on the line.
“I’m buzzing to be defending my European Title and against such a good fighter in Felix Cash,” said Denny. “Add to the fact it’s in Birmingham so the Black Country army will be out in full force to witness a great fight and one that I’m confident of winning.”
“Tyler Denny is a solid professional, but I have no time to lose,” said Cash. “My plan is to get him out of my way as quickly as possible and move on to world level.”
“I’m to be back out so soon,” said Crocker. “Thanks to Matchroom and Conlan Boxing for keeping me busy. I’m looking forward to this fight as I know Walker is the type of guy who’s going to come and meet me in the middle of the ring. He won’t be able to handle my power in his own back garden. I believe I will knock him out.”
“I’m absolutely buzzing for this fight,” said Walker. “I think it was inevitable that me and Lewis would cross paths. I’m not taking him lightly; I know he’s a phenomenal fighter. There’s a reason why he’s rated at number 2 in the UK. I jumped at the opportunity and grabbed it with both hands. A win here puts me another step forwards to where I want to go. I want to be number one in the UK and I want to clean up domestically and then push on for World Titles.”
“I can’t wait to return to the West Midland’s for what promises to be an electric night of boxing at Resorts World Arena Birmingham,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “It’s the long awaited return of former British and Commonwealth Middleweight Champion Felix Cash under the guidance of new coach Adam Booth, and he jumps straight back in at the deep end against European Champion Tyler Denny. Lewis Crocker against Conah Walker can only be an all out war and bitter rivals Cameron Vuong and Jordan Flynn will finally get it on after all of the trash talk. Shannon Ryan takes another step up when she meets Emma Dolan for the British and Commonwealth Titles. Catch it all live on DAZN.”
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Prime Video debuts Gloves Off: Canelo vs. Munguia |
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Prime Video announced the launch of an all-new, two-episode presentation of Gloves Off for the world super middleweight championship fight between champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez and challenger Jamie Munguia. Gloves Off is a series that brings fight fans behind-the-scenes access in the lead-up to highly-anticipated PBC on Prime Video boxing events. Narrated by Barry Pepper, Gloves Off: Canelo vs. Munguia premieres on Prime Video today, and takes fans far beyond the ring. The series blends footage and stories of the two fighters’ lives, families, training camp team members, and training camp activity as the build-up increases to the highly-anticipated Cinco de Mayo weekend showdown in Las Vegas.
Squaring off in the May 4th blockbuster event will be undisputed world super middleweight champion and Mexican icon Canelo Alvarez placing his world title on the line versus rising Mexican star Jaime Munguia, an unbeaten former 154-pound title holder. The episodes illustrate the personal stakes on the line and offers an intimate look at these prizefighters headlining the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants and harkens back to the great Mexico vs. Mexico matchups of the past.
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Prime Video debuts Gloves Off: Canelo vs. Munguia
Prime Video announced the launch of an all-new, two-episode presentation of Gloves Off for the world super middleweight championship fight between champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez and challenger Jamie Munguia. Gloves Off is a series that brings fight fans behind-the-scenes access in the lead-up to highly-anticipated PBC on Prime Video boxing events. Narrated by Barry Pepper, Gloves Off: Canelo vs. Munguia premieres on Prime Video today, and takes fans far beyond the ring. The series blends footage and stories of the two fighters’ lives, families, training camp team members, and training camp activity as the build-up increases to the highly-anticipated Cinco de Mayo weekend showdown in Las Vegas.
Squaring off in the May 4th blockbuster event will be undisputed world super middleweight champion and Mexican icon Canelo Alvarez placing his world title on the line versus rising Mexican star Jaime Munguia, an unbeaten former 154-pound title holder. The episodes illustrate the personal stakes on the line and offers an intimate look at these prizefighters headlining the first four-belt undisputed title fight between Mexican combatants and harkens back to the great Mexico vs. Mexico matchups of the past.
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Introducing super flyweight Steven “Kid Dynamite” Navarro |
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Junior bantamweight Steven “Kid Dynamite” Navarro, a thirteen-time U.S. national amateur champion who turned pro earlier this month with a show-stopping knockout, has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. The 20 year-old Navarro, a native of Inglewood, California, is scheduled to make his Top Rank debut in June. “Steven is an exceptional talent who comes from a great boxing family, and I believe he has all the tools to become a world champion,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “I can’t wait to watch his professional journey unfold.”
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Introducing super flyweight Steven “Kid Dynamite” Navarro
Junior bantamweight Steven “Kid Dynamite” Navarro, a thirteen-time U.S. national amateur champion who turned pro earlier this month with a show-stopping knockout, has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. The 20 year-old Navarro, a native of Inglewood, California, is scheduled to make his Top Rank debut in June. “Steven is an exceptional talent who comes from a great boxing family, and I believe he has all the tools to become a world champion,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “I can’t wait to watch his professional journey unfold.”
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