PitBull Cruz quotables |
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Mexican star and former world champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz sent a final message to his fans at a media workout in Mexico City this past Saturday as he enters this rematch against fellow Mexican slugger Angel Fierro in PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video action this Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
“I feel very strong and happy to close out training camp like this,” said Cruz. “We are very close to getting the victory that belongs to us by beating Angel Fierro. We’re focused on implementing what we have been working on the past three and a half months and we’re going for it all.
“If you thought that my first fight against Fierro was entertaining and full of fireworks, then get ready. There will be even more this time. I’m going to do my best to make the fans happy. Buy the pay-per-view, get your snacks and get comfortable, because you’re gonna be the real winners of the night.”
The Mexico City-native Cruz earned the close decision on all three scorecards the first time around, but appeared less effective in the second half of the fight, as Fierro out landed him 132 to 106 across the final five frames. Now, Cruz will look to close out the rivalry in emphatic fashion and leave no doubt on Saturday night.
In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.
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PitBull Cruz quotables
Mexican star and former world champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz sent a final message to his fans at a media workout in Mexico City this past Saturday as he enters this rematch against fellow Mexican slugger Angel Fierro in PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video action this Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
“I feel very strong and happy to close out training camp like this,” said Cruz. “We are very close to getting the victory that belongs to us by beating Angel Fierro. We’re focused on implementing what we have been working on the past three and a half months and we’re going for it all.
“If you thought that my first fight against Fierro was entertaining and full of fireworks, then get ready. There will be even more this time. I’m going to do my best to make the fans happy. Buy the pay-per-view, get your snacks and get comfortable, because you’re gonna be the real winners of the night.”
The Mexico City-native Cruz earned the close decision on all three scorecards the first time around, but appeared less effective in the second half of the fight, as Fierro out landed him 132 to 106 across the final five frames. Now, Cruz will look to close out the rivalry in emphatic fashion and leave no doubt on Saturday night.
In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.
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Op Ed, Part 6: When the Disruptor Faces the Dictator — MVP vs. GEA and Boxing's Fork in the Road |
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Boxing has always been a business of power. But never before has the contrast between two competing visions of that power been so stark. On one side stands Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the lean, media-savvy upstart co-founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian. On the other, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), the lavish state-backed machine led by Turki Alalshikh. One builds with belief. The other buys with billions. The recent events surrounding Jake Paul’s WBA ranking and Canelo Alvarez’s alignment with Turki have revealed just how deep this fault line runs. But this isn’t just about fighters or rankings. It’s about which model will define the future of boxing — and which will fall under the weight of its own illusion.
MVP emerged through disruption. Built not on legacy, but on vision. It gave Amanda Serrano the platform to become a household name. It brought women’s boxing into Madison Square Garden. It treated content creation, streaming, and social media as the main stage, not the sideshow. And most importantly, it refused to play by rules written by people who never wanted it at the table.
The General Entertainment Authority (GEA), in contrast, is control incarnate. Fueled by Saudi oil wealth and political backing, it transformed Riyadh into boxing’s most extravagant stage. But for all the fireworks and fanfare, something is always missing. Empty seats. Manufactured hype. 'Tom and Jerry' fights. The spectacle is grand, but the soul is synthetic. Alalshikh didn’t just want to host fights — he wanted to own the narrative. So he bought Ring Magazine. He locked in exclusive rights. He paid hundreds of millions to fighters not just to compete, but to comply. And when the WBA dared to rank Jake Paul — a fighter outside his orbit — he reportedly threatened to cancel their GENNEXT tournament altogether.
That’s the kind of power GEA wields. But that power is now being challenged. Boxing League 1, the new player in town, has quietly become the most subversive force in the sport. Minority shareholders Terence Crawford and his manager Ishmael Hinton — a former Creative Artists Agency executive and adviser to Turki — represent something Turki can’t buy: autonomy. Multiple sources confirm that Turki made aggressive attempts to buy into the league, only to be rejected by stakeholders who saw through his model. They didn’t want a benefactor. They wanted freedom.
The irony is hard to miss. Turki, in seeking to consolidate control, may have unintentionally sparked the very rebellion he feared. MVP and League 1 are now aligned in philosophy, if not officially in structure. They both operate outside GEA’s influence. They both prioritize athlete empowerment. And they both understand something Turki still doesn’t: power that’s purchased is never as durable as power that’s earned.
The question now is not whether these forces will clash — it’s how long the sport can survive under a split-screen model where authenticity and authoritarianism coexist. For Jake Paul, this moment is particularly pivotal. His recent face-to-face meeting with Turki may have signaled a softening — a desire to reset. But if that détente comes at the cost of the WBA, who risked their reputation to rank him, then MVP's credibility could fracture. Because standing up to the system only matters if you also stand with those who stood by you.
GEA’s model is not built for sustainability. It's built for spectacle. It can buy headlines, rent loyalty, and dominate short-term attention. But it cannot build fandom. It cannot build grassroots passion. It cannot build the kind of generational respect that MVP and League 1 are now fighting to preserve.
At its core, this isn’t just a turf war. It’s a referendum. One path says boxing must bend to money. The other says it must return to meaning. In that equation, every fighter, every fan, and every sanctioning body must choose. Because neutrality is no longer neutral. It's an endorsement of the old order — and an abdication of the new.
On 07/11/2025, MVP — co-founded by Jake Paul — will stage a historic all-women’s boxing card at Madison Square Garden, headlined by Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III. Promoted in partnership with Netflix and streamed globally at no additional cost to subscribers, the event is the first all-women’s card at the iconic venue and may break the Guinness World Record for the most world title belts contested on a single night. It’s a milestone moment — not just for MVP, but for the future of women’s boxing.
One day later, on 07/12/2025, Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens will host its first-ever boxing event: an all-men’s card headlined by Shakur Stevenson vs. William Zepeda for the WBC lightweight championship. Presented by Ring Magazine — now owned by Turki Alalshikh — and broadcast on DAZN, the event will showcase top-tier male talent in a setting better known for the U.S. Open than the sweet science.
The contrast between these two events is striking. One uplifts women in a sport that has long marginalized them; the other continues the tradition of male-dominated showcases. Expectations remain tempered, but if the women’s card captures the moment, it could quietly redefine what success looks like in boxing.
Turki, who comes from a culture where women have historically been sidelined, may find this weekend’s real lesson not in the ring — but in the reaction. Because when the final bell rings, the question won’t be which event had the bigger budget — but which one moved the sport forward. An update and comparison will follow once all the data is in.
And while the July 11th card highlights what progress can look like in the ring, the sport’s power struggles outside of it remain just as defining.
When the WBA ranked Paul at cruiserweight, it was more than symbolic. It was a statement of merit. A message to the sport that it’s time to evaluate fighters based on impact, not just pedigree. But it also put a target on the WBA’s back. According to reliable sources, Turki Alalshikh threatened to withdraw his support for the WBA's GENNEXT tournament — a retaliation designed to punish a sanctioning body for thinking independently.
That threat wasn’t idle. Other organizations, once supportive of the same idea, have since gone silent. It’s a classic pressure tactic: isolate the boldest actor, make them regret their courage, and discourage others from following suit.
Now that Jake Paul and Turki have reportedly met to 'bury the hatchet,' the spotlight turns back to Paul. If he allows the WBA to be penalized for its risk, his legacy as a disruptor will ring hollow. This is where moral compass matters. Disruption without loyalty is opportunism. And if Jake Paul wants to lead the next generation, he’ll need to prove that he stands for more than just himself.
Canelo, too, is facing a moment of reckoning. By chasing softer opposition while ducking David Benavidez — the one fight fans have long demanded — he’s placed his legacy in the rearview mirror. He’s now seen by many as a sellout, a fighter more interested in cashing checks than closing chapters. From John Ryder to Jermell Charlo, from Jaime Munguia to Edgar Berlanga, Canelo’s recent opponents have one thing in common: they’re not the best available.
The irony is that while Canelo and Crawford may be setting up a so-called 'historic' fight, neither man is in his prime. And if the bout ends up being another 'Tom & Jerry' sequel, they’ll still be waiting for the wire to hit — indifferent to fan disappointment and immune to legacy damage.
That’s what makes this moment so crucial. The sport is watching. Not just for action in the ring, but for truth outside of it. Who stands by their partners? Who plays both sides? Who values legacy over leverage? And who is willing to lose something real in pursuit of something meaningful?
History doesn’t remember the biggest paycheck. It remembers who changed the game.
And as MVP and GEA battle for boxing’s soul, the fans may soon decide who really deserves to shape its future.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS PART SIX OF A GROWING SERIES, ALL BY CHARLES MUNIZ. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART THREE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART FOUR CAN BE READ HERE; AND PART FIVE IS PUBLISHED HERE.
Future articles will follow, including a detailed comparison between the MVP event scheduled for 07/11/2025 and Turki’s upcoming card at Louis Armstrong Stadium on 07/12/2025. Additionally, we’ll present a hypothetical Wall Street-style breakdown of MVP and GEA as if they were public companies—analyzing which model is truly built to last.
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Op Ed, Part 6: When the Disruptor Faces the Dictator — MVP vs. GEA and Boxing's Fork in the Road
Boxing has always been a business of power. But never before has the contrast between two competing visions of that power been so stark. On one side stands Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the lean, media-savvy upstart co-founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian. On the other, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), the lavish state-backed machine led by Turki Alalshikh. One builds with belief. The other buys with billions. The recent events surrounding Jake Paul’s WBA ranking and Canelo Alvarez’s alignment with Turki have revealed just how deep this fault line runs. But this isn’t just about fighters or rankings. It’s about which model will define the future of boxing — and which will fall under the weight of its own illusion.
MVP emerged through disruption. Built not on legacy, but on vision. It gave Amanda Serrano the platform to become a household name. It brought women’s boxing into Madison Square Garden. It treated content creation, streaming, and social media as the main stage, not the sideshow. And most importantly, it refused to play by rules written by people who never wanted it at the table.
The General Entertainment Authority (GEA), in contrast, is control incarnate. Fueled by Saudi oil wealth and political backing, it transformed Riyadh into boxing’s most extravagant stage. But for all the fireworks and fanfare, something is always missing. Empty seats. Manufactured hype. 'Tom and Jerry' fights. The spectacle is grand, but the soul is synthetic. Alalshikh didn’t just want to host fights — he wanted to own the narrative. So he bought Ring Magazine. He locked in exclusive rights. He paid hundreds of millions to fighters not just to compete, but to comply. And when the WBA dared to rank Jake Paul — a fighter outside his orbit — he reportedly threatened to cancel their GENNEXT tournament altogether.
That’s the kind of power GEA wields. But that power is now being challenged. Boxing League 1, the new player in town, has quietly become the most subversive force in the sport. Minority shareholders Terence Crawford and his manager Ishmael Hinton — a former Creative Artists Agency executive and adviser to Turki — represent something Turki can’t buy: autonomy. Multiple sources confirm that Turki made aggressive attempts to buy into the league, only to be rejected by stakeholders who saw through his model. They didn’t want a benefactor. They wanted freedom.
The irony is hard to miss. Turki, in seeking to consolidate control, may have unintentionally sparked the very rebellion he feared. MVP and League 1 are now aligned in philosophy, if not officially in structure. They both operate outside GEA’s influence. They both prioritize athlete empowerment. And they both understand something Turki still doesn’t: power that’s purchased is never as durable as power that’s earned.
The question now is not whether these forces will clash — it’s how long the sport can survive under a split-screen model where authenticity and authoritarianism coexist. For Jake Paul, this moment is particularly pivotal. His recent face-to-face meeting with Turki may have signaled a softening — a desire to reset. But if that détente comes at the cost of the WBA, who risked their reputation to rank him, then MVP's credibility could fracture. Because standing up to the system only matters if you also stand with those who stood by you.
GEA’s model is not built for sustainability. It's built for spectacle. It can buy headlines, rent loyalty, and dominate short-term attention. But it cannot build fandom. It cannot build grassroots passion. It cannot build the kind of generational respect that MVP and League 1 are now fighting to preserve.
At its core, this isn’t just a turf war. It’s a referendum. One path says boxing must bend to money. The other says it must return to meaning. In that equation, every fighter, every fan, and every sanctioning body must choose. Because neutrality is no longer neutral. It's an endorsement of the old order — and an abdication of the new.
On 07/11/2025, MVP — co-founded by Jake Paul — will stage a historic all-women’s boxing card at Madison Square Garden, headlined by Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III. Promoted in partnership with Netflix and streamed globally at no additional cost to subscribers, the event is the first all-women’s card at the iconic venue and may break the Guinness World Record for the most world title belts contested on a single night. It’s a milestone moment — not just for MVP, but for the future of women’s boxing.
One day later, on 07/12/2025, Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens will host its first-ever boxing event: an all-men’s card headlined by Shakur Stevenson vs. William Zepeda for the WBC lightweight championship. Presented by Ring Magazine — now owned by Turki Alalshikh — and broadcast on DAZN, the event will showcase top-tier male talent in a setting better known for the U.S. Open than the sweet science.
The contrast between these two events is striking. One uplifts women in a sport that has long marginalized them; the other continues the tradition of male-dominated showcases. Expectations remain tempered, but if the women’s card captures the moment, it could quietly redefine what success looks like in boxing.
Turki, who comes from a culture where women have historically been sidelined, may find this weekend’s real lesson not in the ring — but in the reaction. Because when the final bell rings, the question won’t be which event had the bigger budget — but which one moved the sport forward. An update and comparison will follow once all the data is in.
And while the July 11th card highlights what progress can look like in the ring, the sport’s power struggles outside of it remain just as defining.
When the WBA ranked Paul at cruiserweight, it was more than symbolic. It was a statement of merit. A message to the sport that it’s time to evaluate fighters based on impact, not just pedigree. But it also put a target on the WBA’s back. According to reliable sources, Turki Alalshikh threatened to withdraw his support for the WBA's GENNEXT tournament — a retaliation designed to punish a sanctioning body for thinking independently.
That threat wasn’t idle. Other organizations, once supportive of the same idea, have since gone silent. It’s a classic pressure tactic: isolate the boldest actor, make them regret their courage, and discourage others from following suit.
Now that Jake Paul and Turki have reportedly met to 'bury the hatchet,' the spotlight turns back to Paul. If he allows the WBA to be penalized for its risk, his legacy as a disruptor will ring hollow. This is where moral compass matters. Disruption without loyalty is opportunism. And if Jake Paul wants to lead the next generation, he’ll need to prove that he stands for more than just himself.
Canelo, too, is facing a moment of reckoning. By chasing softer opposition while ducking David Benavidez — the one fight fans have long demanded — he’s placed his legacy in the rearview mirror. He’s now seen by many as a sellout, a fighter more interested in cashing checks than closing chapters. From John Ryder to Jermell Charlo, from Jaime Munguia to Edgar Berlanga, Canelo’s recent opponents have one thing in common: they’re not the best available.
The irony is that while Canelo and Crawford may be setting up a so-called 'historic' fight, neither man is in his prime. And if the bout ends up being another 'Tom & Jerry' sequel, they’ll still be waiting for the wire to hit — indifferent to fan disappointment and immune to legacy damage.
That’s what makes this moment so crucial. The sport is watching. Not just for action in the ring, but for truth outside of it. Who stands by their partners? Who plays both sides? Who values legacy over leverage? And who is willing to lose something real in pursuit of something meaningful?
History doesn’t remember the biggest paycheck. It remembers who changed the game.
And as MVP and GEA battle for boxing’s soul, the fans may soon decide who really deserves to shape its future.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS PART SIX OF A GROWING SERIES, ALL BY CHARLES MUNIZ. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART THREE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART FOUR CAN BE READ HERE; AND PART FIVE IS PUBLISHED HERE.
Future articles will follow, including a detailed comparison between the MVP event scheduled for 07/11/2025 and Turki’s upcoming card at Louis Armstrong Stadium on 07/12/2025. Additionally, we’ll present a hypothetical Wall Street-style breakdown of MVP and GEA as if they were public companies—analyzing which model is truly built to last.
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Hovhannisyan returns on Friday in Florida |
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In separate ten rounders this Friday, heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan (8-0, 7 KOs) and super bantamweight Angel Barrientes (13-1, 8 KOs) will be featured at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The action is set to broadcast live globally on DAZN. Hovhannisyan, the Armenian-born knockout artist based in Los Angeles, will headline against Chris Thomas (15-1-2, 10 KOs) from Beachwood, New Jersey. He’s eyeing a leap toward heavyweight glory with a dominant performance. “Thomas is not to be overlooked—he’s rugged, experienced, and dangerous,” said Hovhannisyan, who is co-promoted with Boxlab and TGB Promotions. “This is going to be a tough fight, but I’ve trained for this moment."
In the co-feature, 22 year old Angel “AK-47” Barrientes, of Las Vegas is matched against Cuban-born Jorge Romero (23-1-1, 14 KOs), a fleetfooted boxer-puncher out of Miami. Barrientes aims to gain status as a world-class contender in the 122-pound division. “Romero brings serious pedigree and punching power,” stated Barrientes. “I respect his record—but I’m hungry... A win here proves I belong among the elite.”
“This event captures everything fans love—power, passion, and high-stakes matchups, with two regional titles on the line in the feature bouts of the evening,” said Boxlab Promotions President, Amaury Piedra, as he expressed his enthusiasm for this event. “Both Gurgen and Angel are competing against the toughest opponents of their careers. Both fighters are poised to step onto the global stage with meaningful, career-defining wins. This night isn’t just about wins—it’s about making statements, a marching up the rankings. We can’t wait to bring this level of boxing to Orlando and DAZN viewers worldwide.”
UNDERCARD
Heavyweights: Aleksei Dronov (7-0, 5 KOs), vs. Joe Jones (15-13-1, 10 KOs) (eight rounds);
Heavyweights; Drake Banks (9-0, 7 KOs), vs. Colby Madison (11-7-3, 7 KOs) (eight rounds);
Junior lightweights; Gabriela Tellez (5-0, 2 KOs), vs. Elizabeth Chavez Espinoza (4-8-3, 1 KOs) (six rounds);
Featherweights; Roberto Gomez (6-0, 3 KOs), vs. Jose Saant (15-10-1, 5 KOs) (six rounds);
Lightweights; Jobed Collazo (1-0-0, 0 KOs), vs. Alen Dudo (0-1-1, 0 KOs) (four rounds);
Bantamweights; Carlos Lebron (5-1-1, 4 KOs), vs. Anel Dudo (3-6-0, 1 KOs) (four rounds);
Middleweights; Alex Bray (9-0, 0 KOs), vs. TBA (eight rounds);
Super bantamweights; Chavez Barrientes (11-0, 6 KOs), vs. TBA (eight rounds); and
Welterweights; Geise Reyes Del Verso (6-0, 5 KOs), vs. TBA (six rounds).
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Hovhannisyan returns on Friday in Florida
In separate ten rounders this Friday, heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan (8-0, 7 KOs) and super bantamweight Angel Barrientes (13-1, 8 KOs) will be featured at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The action is set to broadcast live globally on DAZN. Hovhannisyan, the Armenian-born knockout artist based in Los Angeles, will headline against Chris Thomas (15-1-2, 10 KOs) from Beachwood, New Jersey. He’s eyeing a leap toward heavyweight glory with a dominant performance. “Thomas is not to be overlooked—he’s rugged, experienced, and dangerous,” said Hovhannisyan, who is co-promoted with Boxlab and TGB Promotions. “This is going to be a tough fight, but I’ve trained for this moment."
In the co-feature, 22 year old Angel “AK-47” Barrientes, of Las Vegas is matched against Cuban-born Jorge Romero (23-1-1, 14 KOs), a fleetfooted boxer-puncher out of Miami. Barrientes aims to gain status as a world-class contender in the 122-pound division. “Romero brings serious pedigree and punching power,” stated Barrientes. “I respect his record—but I’m hungry... A win here proves I belong among the elite.”
“This event captures everything fans love—power, passion, and high-stakes matchups, with two regional titles on the line in the feature bouts of the evening,” said Boxlab Promotions President, Amaury Piedra, as he expressed his enthusiasm for this event. “Both Gurgen and Angel are competing against the toughest opponents of their careers. Both fighters are poised to step onto the global stage with meaningful, career-defining wins. This night isn’t just about wins—it’s about making statements, a marching up the rankings. We can’t wait to bring this level of boxing to Orlando and DAZN viewers worldwide.”
UNDERCARD
Heavyweights: Aleksei Dronov (7-0, 5 KOs), vs. Joe Jones (15-13-1, 10 KOs) (eight rounds);
Heavyweights; Drake Banks (9-0, 7 KOs), vs. Colby Madison (11-7-3, 7 KOs) (eight rounds);
Junior lightweights; Gabriela Tellez (5-0, 2 KOs), vs. Elizabeth Chavez Espinoza (4-8-3, 1 KOs) (six rounds);
Featherweights; Roberto Gomez (6-0, 3 KOs), vs. Jose Saant (15-10-1, 5 KOs) (six rounds);
Lightweights; Jobed Collazo (1-0-0, 0 KOs), vs. Alen Dudo (0-1-1, 0 KOs) (four rounds);
Bantamweights; Carlos Lebron (5-1-1, 4 KOs), vs. Anel Dudo (3-6-0, 1 KOs) (four rounds);
Middleweights; Alex Bray (9-0, 0 KOs), vs. TBA (eight rounds);
Super bantamweights; Chavez Barrientes (11-0, 6 KOs), vs. TBA (eight rounds); and
Welterweights; Geise Reyes Del Verso (6-0, 5 KOs), vs. TBA (six rounds).
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Lopez vs. Vargas headlines at Pechanga this weekend |
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On Friday, July 18th, Christy Martin Promotions and Ringside Ticket will present professional boxing at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, to be broadcast live on Millions.co pay-per-view. In the ten-round welterweight main event, Corona, California’s Louie Lopez (16-2-3, 5 KOs) will face Adrian Vargas (15-0-1, 10 KOs) from National City, California. And in the ten-round junior middleweight co-feature, Emeka Nwokolo (15-1, 13 KOs) of Los Angeles via Nigeria will take on Jireh De Los Santos (15-2-2, 5 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster or at the Pechanga Resort Casino Box Office (888) 810-8871.
At age 28, Lopez is a seven-year professional who has never fought outside his native state. Known as “The Fighting Pride of Corona California,” Lopez is an all-action fighter who always produces a thrilling performance. Known for taking the hard fights that other prospects avoid, Lopez defeated the formidable Alan Sanchez (then 23-5-1) via upset eight-round unanimous decision in July 2024. He was last seen fighting to a majority draw against the well-respected Jesus Saracho (then 14-2-1) on a ProBox TV event in March of this year.
Vargas, age 35, is a 14-year pro who recently returned to boxing after nearly ten years of inactivity. Since returning to the sport, Vargas has scored two consecutive knockouts. He was last seen stopping Sachin Rohila (then 8-1) in one round in San Diego. In his life away from boxing, Vargas works as a carpenter for Union Carpenters Local 619. He also runs the Restoring San Diego program, which is “devoted to making a positive lasting impact in our communities, especially for at-risk youth.”
On the undercard, fan favorite Paolo “Pow” Barredo (3-0, 2 KOs) of Walnut, California, will face Luis Valdes Pena (8-20-1, 2 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, in a four-round junior lightweight battle.
Also scheduled is a six-round junior middleweight bout between Devin Parrish (5-0, 5 KOs) of Chicago and Oscar Trujillo Enriquez (2-0-1, 1 KO) Riverside, California via Mexico...
Michael Meyers (7-2, 3 KOs) of Murrieta, California, will face Josias Gonzalez (2-5-1) of Whittier, California in a six-round welterweight battle... and
In a six-round lightweight fight, William King (5-2-2, 2 KOs) of Perris, California, will face Markus Bowes (3-8, 2 KOs) of Roxboro, North Carolina...
Opening up the action, Andres Martinez (5-4, 3 KOs) of Equatorial Guinea, will take on Jonathan Espino (2-5, 2 KOs) of San Marcos, California, in a four-round light heavyweight scrap.
“My whole team at Christy Martin Promotions is looking forward to this loaded card and the opportunity to bring exciting fights to the fans at Pechanga Resort Casino and our online viewers,” said Christy Martin. “Thank you to Patrick Ortiz of Ringside Ticket, Inc., for partnering with me on this show. The main and co-featured bouts are both ‘can’t miss’ battles that will thrill the fans live and on Millions PPV. Plus, we have an undercard of competitive bouts between local and international prospects. Don’t miss this great event being held in one of the staple venues of Southern California boxing.”
All bouts are subject to change. The Pechanga Resort Casino is located at 45000 Pechanga Parkway in Temecula, CA. For more information, visit pechanga.com or call 877-711-2946.
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Lopez vs. Vargas headlines at Pechanga this weekend
On Friday, July 18th, Christy Martin Promotions and Ringside Ticket will present professional boxing at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, to be broadcast live on Millions.co pay-per-view. In the ten-round welterweight main event, Corona, California’s Louie Lopez (16-2-3, 5 KOs) will face Adrian Vargas (15-0-1, 10 KOs) from National City, California. And in the ten-round junior middleweight co-feature, Emeka Nwokolo (15-1, 13 KOs) of Los Angeles via Nigeria will take on Jireh De Los Santos (15-2-2, 5 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster or at the Pechanga Resort Casino Box Office (888) 810-8871.
At age 28, Lopez is a seven-year professional who has never fought outside his native state. Known as “The Fighting Pride of Corona California,” Lopez is an all-action fighter who always produces a thrilling performance. Known for taking the hard fights that other prospects avoid, Lopez defeated the formidable Alan Sanchez (then 23-5-1) via upset eight-round unanimous decision in July 2024. He was last seen fighting to a majority draw against the well-respected Jesus Saracho (then 14-2-1) on a ProBox TV event in March of this year.
Vargas, age 35, is a 14-year pro who recently returned to boxing after nearly ten years of inactivity. Since returning to the sport, Vargas has scored two consecutive knockouts. He was last seen stopping Sachin Rohila (then 8-1) in one round in San Diego. In his life away from boxing, Vargas works as a carpenter for Union Carpenters Local 619. He also runs the Restoring San Diego program, which is “devoted to making a positive lasting impact in our communities, especially for at-risk youth.”
On the undercard, fan favorite Paolo “Pow” Barredo (3-0, 2 KOs) of Walnut, California, will face Luis Valdes Pena (8-20-1, 2 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, in a four-round junior lightweight battle.
Also scheduled is a six-round junior middleweight bout between Devin Parrish (5-0, 5 KOs) of Chicago and Oscar Trujillo Enriquez (2-0-1, 1 KO) Riverside, California via Mexico...
Michael Meyers (7-2, 3 KOs) of Murrieta, California, will face Josias Gonzalez (2-5-1) of Whittier, California in a six-round welterweight battle... and
In a six-round lightweight fight, William King (5-2-2, 2 KOs) of Perris, California, will face Markus Bowes (3-8, 2 KOs) of Roxboro, North Carolina...
Opening up the action, Andres Martinez (5-4, 3 KOs) of Equatorial Guinea, will take on Jonathan Espino (2-5, 2 KOs) of San Marcos, California, in a four-round light heavyweight scrap.
“My whole team at Christy Martin Promotions is looking forward to this loaded card and the opportunity to bring exciting fights to the fans at Pechanga Resort Casino and our online viewers,” said Christy Martin. “Thank you to Patrick Ortiz of Ringside Ticket, Inc., for partnering with me on this show. The main and co-featured bouts are both ‘can’t miss’ battles that will thrill the fans live and on Millions PPV. Plus, we have an undercard of competitive bouts between local and international prospects. Don’t miss this great event being held in one of the staple venues of Southern California boxing.”
All bouts are subject to change. The Pechanga Resort Casino is located at 45000 Pechanga Parkway in Temecula, CA. For more information, visit pechanga.com or call 877-711-2946.
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Stevenson dominates Zepeda in career best win |
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In a career-best performance, Shakur Stevenson, 135 lbs., the pride of Newark, NJ, impressively defended his WBC lightweight world title for the third time against rugged Mexican pressure fighter William Zepeda, 134.6 lbs., at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Corona, Queens, NY, co-headlining the Ring III event on DAZN PPV.
The southpaw Stevenson began the bout boxing on his toes, sticking to the body and throwing jab-straight left combinations to the head. Zepeda pressed forward throwing left and right hooks while trying to find openings behind Shakur’s tight guard. They spent the entire second frame trading power shots on the inside, with Zepeda digging away at the midsection and Stevenson throwing hooks upstairs. In round three, Zepeda, of San Mateo, Mexico, appeared to wobble Stevenson with a stiff jab near a neutral corner, but the champion later said, “He threw a jab and I was off balance, not hurt.”
Electing to focus on counterpunching, Stevenson willingly backed to the ropes. In doing so, he absorbed a lot of unnecessary leather. Overall, Zepeda landed 272 out of 979 punches thrown, including 110 body shots. Ultimately, this game plan proved to be effective and helped turn the tide of the contest. By the midway point, Shakur was in complete control. Zepeda’s punch output waned and Stevenson’s sharp, well-placed counters pushed him ahead.
Zepeda tried to pick up the pace again over the championship rounds, but Shakur found the proper distance to keep out of harm’s way and bang his adversary with fast combinations. Stevenson’s fists found the target 295 times out of 565 punches thrown, landing nearly 56 percent of his power shots. Scorecards read 119-109, and 118-110 twice, all for Stevenson, now 24-0 (11 KOs), by way of unanimous decision. Zepeda left the ring at 33-1 (27 KOs).
“Zepeda pushed me to another level,” said Stevenson. “He made me make adjustments, made me think. I stood in the pocket to let you guys know I could get busy in there,” said Stevenson.
“Everybody in my corner told me to stay off the ropes, but I’ve been feeling comfortable on the ropes. I took advantage of the opportunities and countered.
“Going forward, I’m going to make adjustments to make sure I don’t stay there too long. I took more punishment than usual tonight. I want to get back to my boxing. I don’t plan on getting hit anymore.”
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Stevenson dominates Zepeda in career best win
In a career-best performance, Shakur Stevenson, 135 lbs., the pride of Newark, NJ, impressively defended his WBC lightweight world title for the third time against rugged Mexican pressure fighter William Zepeda, 134.6 lbs., at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Corona, Queens, NY, co-headlining the Ring III event on DAZN PPV.
The southpaw Stevenson began the bout boxing on his toes, sticking to the body and throwing jab-straight left combinations to the head. Zepeda pressed forward throwing left and right hooks while trying to find openings behind Shakur’s tight guard. They spent the entire second frame trading power shots on the inside, with Zepeda digging away at the midsection and Stevenson throwing hooks upstairs. In round three, Zepeda, of San Mateo, Mexico, appeared to wobble Stevenson with a stiff jab near a neutral corner, but the champion later said, “He threw a jab and I was off balance, not hurt.”
Electing to focus on counterpunching, Stevenson willingly backed to the ropes. In doing so, he absorbed a lot of unnecessary leather. Overall, Zepeda landed 272 out of 979 punches thrown, including 110 body shots. Ultimately, this game plan proved to be effective and helped turn the tide of the contest. By the midway point, Shakur was in complete control. Zepeda’s punch output waned and Stevenson’s sharp, well-placed counters pushed him ahead.
Zepeda tried to pick up the pace again over the championship rounds, but Shakur found the proper distance to keep out of harm’s way and bang his adversary with fast combinations. Stevenson’s fists found the target 295 times out of 565 punches thrown, landing nearly 56 percent of his power shots. Scorecards read 119-109, and 118-110 twice, all for Stevenson, now 24-0 (11 KOs), by way of unanimous decision. Zepeda left the ring at 33-1 (27 KOs).
“Zepeda pushed me to another level,” said Stevenson. “He made me make adjustments, made me think. I stood in the pocket to let you guys know I could get busy in there,” said Stevenson.
“Everybody in my corner told me to stay off the ropes, but I’ve been feeling comfortable on the ropes. I took advantage of the opportunities and countered.
“Going forward, I’m going to make adjustments to make sure I don’t stay there too long. I took more punishment than usual tonight. I want to get back to my boxing. I don’t plan on getting hit anymore.”
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Sheeraz destroys Berlanga in 5 |
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In a star-making performance headlining the Ring III event from Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, NY, Hamzah Sheeraz of Ilford Essex, England, demolished Edgar Berlanga in the fifth round to become the WBC’s mandatory challenger to the winner of the Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford super middleweight championship taking place in September.
Following a draw against Carlos Adames in his last bout in February, there were questions lingering about Sheeraz’s ability to compete at this level. Feeling that performance was hampered by a weight issue, the six-foot-three Sheeraz, 167.6 lbs., decided to move up to the super middleweight division. He also changed trainers, working with Andy Lee, a former middleweight world champion, and setting up camp in Dublin, Ireland, to prepare for this bout.
Edgar Berlanga, 167.6 lbs., who was born in Brooklyn, NY, to Puerto Rican parents, but now lives in Lithia, FL, started quick, hooking and connecting with his jab-straight right combination. Although he found a home for his left hook to the head on occasion, Sheeraz, who has a habit of keeping his hands down leaving his chin exposed, was susceptible to countershots and Berlanga had the sharper offense in the early going. By round four, both fighters were standing shoulder-to-shoulder exchanging power punches. While on the inside, a left hook-right hook-left hook combination from Sheeraz floored Berlanda in a heap. Though he arose, another series of hooks sent Berlanga crashing to the canvas once more, but again he survived to hear the bell.
Sheeraz swarmed his adversary, still clearly hurt and dazed, in the opening seconds of the fifth and landed another thudding combination of hooks to the head, causing him to double over, touching his gloves to the mat. Referee David Fields had seen enough punishment, halting the bout 17 seconds into the stanza. Securing an emphatic TKO stoppage victory—something Canelo couldn’t do when he fought Berlanga last year—Sheeraz improved to 22-0-1 (18 KOs) in his US debut. Going 1-2 in his last three bouts, Berlanga is now 23-2 (18 KOs).
“With only eight weeks, my training camp with Andy Lee was a crash course. We couldn’t complicate anything, just focusing on throwing more punches and the right punches,” said Sheeraz.
“The first few rounds I was losing, but I was adjusting. Berlanga’s jab surprised me and he was catching me a lot. I learned from the Adames fight. I don’t think Berlanga expected me to fight in close like I did.”
“From an eight-year-old kid in the UK who had nothing, I never thought I’d be here. Now we’re here and it’s my time to shine.”
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Sheeraz destroys Berlanga in 5
In a star-making performance headlining the Ring III event from Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, NY, Hamzah Sheeraz of Ilford Essex, England, demolished Edgar Berlanga in the fifth round to become the WBC’s mandatory challenger to the winner of the Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford super middleweight championship taking place in September.
Following a draw against Carlos Adames in his last bout in February, there were questions lingering about Sheeraz’s ability to compete at this level. Feeling that performance was hampered by a weight issue, the six-foot-three Sheeraz, 167.6 lbs., decided to move up to the super middleweight division. He also changed trainers, working with Andy Lee, a former middleweight world champion, and setting up camp in Dublin, Ireland, to prepare for this bout.
Edgar Berlanga, 167.6 lbs., who was born in Brooklyn, NY, to Puerto Rican parents, but now lives in Lithia, FL, started quick, hooking and connecting with his jab-straight right combination. Although he found a home for his left hook to the head on occasion, Sheeraz, who has a habit of keeping his hands down leaving his chin exposed, was susceptible to countershots and Berlanga had the sharper offense in the early going. By round four, both fighters were standing shoulder-to-shoulder exchanging power punches. While on the inside, a left hook-right hook-left hook combination from Sheeraz floored Berlanda in a heap. Though he arose, another series of hooks sent Berlanga crashing to the canvas once more, but again he survived to hear the bell.
Sheeraz swarmed his adversary, still clearly hurt and dazed, in the opening seconds of the fifth and landed another thudding combination of hooks to the head, causing him to double over, touching his gloves to the mat. Referee David Fields had seen enough punishment, halting the bout 17 seconds into the stanza. Securing an emphatic TKO stoppage victory—something Canelo couldn’t do when he fought Berlanga last year—Sheeraz improved to 22-0-1 (18 KOs) in his US debut. Going 1-2 in his last three bouts, Berlanga is now 23-2 (18 KOs).
“With only eight weeks, my training camp with Andy Lee was a crash course. We couldn’t complicate anything, just focusing on throwing more punches and the right punches,” said Sheeraz.
“The first few rounds I was losing, but I was adjusting. Berlanga’s jab surprised me and he was catching me a lot. I learned from the Adames fight. I don’t think Berlanga expected me to fight in close like I did.”
“From an eight-year-old kid in the UK who had nothing, I never thought I’d be here. Now we’re here and it’s my time to shine.”
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Matias seizes WBC title |
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In a fast-past battle on the Ring III undercard from Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, NY, Puerto Rico’s Subriel Matias, 140 lbs., matched his relentless pressure against the precise counter-punching of Dominican Alberto Puello, the defending WBC super lightweight world champion. For the first nine rounds, Matias, of Fajardo, Puerto Rico, moved forward, cutting off the ring and attacked with blistering combinations. However, his lack of a jab, coming in with his head down, gave the southpaw Puello, 139.8 lbs., of Las Vegas, NV, ample opportunity to counter when backed against the ropes, making for an action-packed contest. Puello’s best moments, landing his uppercut and overhand lefts, and came in the championship rounds when Matias appeared to tire. The judges tallied 114-114, and 115-113 twice for Matias to win via majority decision. Puello, now 24-1 (10 KOs), tasted defeat for the first time as a pro. Following the decision, it was announced in the ring that Matias, now 23-2 (22 KOs), would make the first defense of his new belt against England’s Dalton Smith in November.
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Matias seizes WBC title
In a fast-past battle on the Ring III undercard from Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, NY, Puerto Rico’s Subriel Matias, 140 lbs., matched his relentless pressure against the precise counter-punching of Dominican Alberto Puello, the defending WBC super lightweight world champion. For the first nine rounds, Matias, of Fajardo, Puerto Rico, moved forward, cutting off the ring and attacked with blistering combinations. However, his lack of a jab, coming in with his head down, gave the southpaw Puello, 139.8 lbs., of Las Vegas, NV, ample opportunity to counter when backed against the ropes, making for an action-packed contest. Puello’s best moments, landing his uppercut and overhand lefts, and came in the championship rounds when Matias appeared to tire. The judges tallied 114-114, and 115-113 twice for Matias to win via majority decision. Puello, now 24-1 (10 KOs), tasted defeat for the first time as a pro. Following the decision, it was announced in the ring that Matias, now 23-2 (22 KOs), would make the first defense of his new belt against England’s Dalton Smith in November.
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Morrell squeaks by Khataev in thriller |
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Following a 10-round give-and-take war at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Corona, Queens, NY, Cuba’s David Morrell, 174.8 lbs., earned a split decision victory against the tough Iman Khataev, 174.8 lbs. Scorecards read 96-93 for Khataev, and 95-94 twice for Morrell, who improved to 12-1 (9 KOs). Khataev, of Urus, Martan, Russia, suffered his first defeat, dipping to 10-1 (9 KOs). Morrell, of Santa Clara, overcame a knockdown early on, when he was dropped in round two by an overhand right.
Reito Tsutsumi, 134.6 lbs., of Tokyo, Japan, opened up the Ring III event with a second-round stoppage against Michael Ruiz, 134.8 lbs., of Toms River, NJ, now 2-8-1. Tsutsumi improved to 2-0 (1 KOs).
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Morrell squeaks by Khataev in thriller
Following a 10-round give-and-take war at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Corona, Queens, NY, Cuba’s David Morrell, 174.8 lbs., earned a split decision victory against the tough Iman Khataev, 174.8 lbs. Scorecards read 96-93 for Khataev, and 95-94 twice for Morrell, who improved to 12-1 (9 KOs). Khataev, of Urus, Martan, Russia, suffered his first defeat, dipping to 10-1 (9 KOs). Morrell, of Santa Clara, overcame a knockdown early on, when he was dropped in round two by an overhand right.
Reito Tsutsumi, 134.6 lbs., of Tokyo, Japan, opened up the Ring III event with a second-round stoppage against Michael Ruiz, 134.8 lbs., of Toms River, NJ, now 2-8-1. Tsutsumi improved to 2-0 (1 KOs).
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Salita inks Tony Harrison |
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Salita Promotions has announced the signing of former WBC junior middleweight champion Tony Harrison of Detroit to a promotional contract. Harrison is gearing up to perform in front of his beloved hometown of the Motor City on the big Claressa Shields vs. Lani Daniels women’s heavyweight championship card on Saturday, July 26th at Little Caesars Arena. Harrison (29-4-1) has not fought in two years and is looking to rebound from his last fight, a loss to Tim Tszyu.
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Salita inks Tony Harrison
Salita Promotions has announced the signing of former WBC junior middleweight champion Tony Harrison of Detroit to a promotional contract. Harrison is gearing up to perform in front of his beloved hometown of the Motor City on the big Claressa Shields vs. Lani Daniels women’s heavyweight championship card on Saturday, July 26th at Little Caesars Arena. Harrison (29-4-1) has not fought in two years and is looking to rebound from his last fight, a loss to Tim Tszyu.
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Taylor earns third decision over Serrano in front of packed Garden |
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Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano closed out their historic trilogy with a tightly contested third bout that favored sharp tactics over explosiveness. While it didn’t reach the frenetic highs of their first encounter at Madison Square Garden, the fight unfolded as a slow-burn chess match, with momentum swinging subtly round-by-round.
The tide began to shift in the seventh round, as Taylor upped her output and began to time Serrano’s entries with clean counters. By the tenth and final round — with the crowd at a fever pitch — Taylor landed the sharper punches, punctuated by a crisp left-right combo before the final bell.
After a deliberation period that felt painfully long, the judges gave the crowd what they were waiting for (or not): 95-95. 97-93. 97-93, with Taylor defeating Serrano via majority decision and successfully defending her unified light-welterweight titles and beating Serrano for the third time.
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Taylor earns third decision over Serrano in front of packed Garden
Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano closed out their historic trilogy with a tightly contested third bout that favored sharp tactics over explosiveness. While it didn’t reach the frenetic highs of their first encounter at Madison Square Garden, the fight unfolded as a slow-burn chess match, with momentum swinging subtly round-by-round.
The tide began to shift in the seventh round, as Taylor upped her output and began to time Serrano’s entries with clean counters. By the tenth and final round — with the crowd at a fever pitch — Taylor landed the sharper punches, punctuated by a crisp left-right combo before the final bell.
After a deliberation period that felt painfully long, the judges gave the crowd what they were waiting for (or not): 95-95. 97-93. 97-93, with Taylor defeating Serrano via majority decision and successfully defending her unified light-welterweight titles and beating Serrano for the third time.
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Baumgardner takes UD in hotly contested bout |
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MVP’s reigning undisputed super featherweight champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (16-1, 7 KOs) returned to the ring to conquer WBA interim world champion Jennifer Miranda (12-1, 1 KO) on the Taylor vs. Serrano 3 undercard.
Baumgardner opened the fight with confidence, controlling the early rounds with excellent footwork and clean counters. Miranda, on the other hand, struggled to find her rhythm. As the bout wore on, Miranda chipped away at Baumgardner’s early lead, even backing her onto the ropes late in the fight. The later rounds saw a shift in momentum as Miranda grew in confidence and aggression, while Baumgardner occasionally coasted — drawing visible frustration from her corner. The final round was a flurry from both, with Miranda landing a strong hook that briefly rallied the crowd. Baumgardner’s earlier dominance and sharper shots secured her the edge.
With both fighters celebrating at the bell, the outcome was left in the hands of the judges, and the MSG crowd made no secret of their divided loyalties: Ultimately, the judges ruled in favor of Baumgardner, and she won via unanimous decision.
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Baumgardner takes UD in hotly contested bout
MVP’s reigning undisputed super featherweight champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (16-1, 7 KOs) returned to the ring to conquer WBA interim world champion Jennifer Miranda (12-1, 1 KO) on the Taylor vs. Serrano 3 undercard.
Baumgardner opened the fight with confidence, controlling the early rounds with excellent footwork and clean counters. Miranda, on the other hand, struggled to find her rhythm. As the bout wore on, Miranda chipped away at Baumgardner’s early lead, even backing her onto the ropes late in the fight. The later rounds saw a shift in momentum as Miranda grew in confidence and aggression, while Baumgardner occasionally coasted — drawing visible frustration from her corner. The final round was a flurry from both, with Miranda landing a strong hook that briefly rallied the crowd. Baumgardner’s earlier dominance and sharper shots secured her the edge.
With both fighters celebrating at the bell, the outcome was left in the hands of the judges, and the MSG crowd made no secret of their divided loyalties: Ultimately, the judges ruled in favor of Baumgardner, and she won via unanimous decision.
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Green unifies with razor thin UD over Marshall |
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IBF super middleweight world champion Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall was defeated by WBO super middleweight world champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green. 14-1, 11 KOs) in a ten-round 168-pound world title unification bout.
Marshall and Green delivered a grueling, back-and-forth clash that kept the Madison Square Garden crowd on edge until the final bell — and firmly in Green’s corner. Green landed heavier shots and nearly dropped Marshall on multiple occasions, but Marshall showed grit and resilience, weathering punishment and finding her rhythm behind the jab in the later rounds. After being stunned in the fifth, Marshall adjusted, using movement and sharp counters to claw her way back into contention. The fight was messy in the best way, and while Green’s rounds were more emphatic and her power won over the crowd, Marshall’s consistency could have easily swayed the judges — a result that was met with boos despite the mutual respect shown between the fighters at the end. However, the judges ultimately scored the fight 95-94, 93-96, 96-93 in favor of Green.
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Green unifies with razor thin UD over Marshall
IBF super middleweight world champion Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall was defeated by WBO super middleweight world champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green. 14-1, 11 KOs) in a ten-round 168-pound world title unification bout.
Marshall and Green delivered a grueling, back-and-forth clash that kept the Madison Square Garden crowd on edge until the final bell — and firmly in Green’s corner. Green landed heavier shots and nearly dropped Marshall on multiple occasions, but Marshall showed grit and resilience, weathering punishment and finding her rhythm behind the jab in the later rounds. After being stunned in the fifth, Marshall adjusted, using movement and sharp counters to claw her way back into contention. The fight was messy in the best way, and while Green’s rounds were more emphatic and her power won over the crowd, Marshall’s consistency could have easily swayed the judges — a result that was met with boos despite the mutual respect shown between the fighters at the end. However, the judges ultimately scored the fight 95-94, 93-96, 96-93 in favor of Green.
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Scotney dominates Mercado for WBC 122 lb title |
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England's Ellie Scotney added the WBC 122-pound title to her collection In Madison Square Garden. Scotney outfought Yamileth Mercado over ten sharp rounds, showcasing her precision and patience against an opponent who never stopped swinging but rarely connected. Scotney established her range early and never let go of the advantage, punishing Mercado’s wild aggression with crisp counters and clean combinations.
In the sixth round, Mercado sustained a deep cut over her eye (reminiscent of Serrano’s infamous cut courtesy of Taylor’s head at the 2024 Paul-Tyson affair), worsening under Scotney’s sustained offense.
As Mercado relied increasingly on clinching to stall the momentum, Scotney only grew more confident. In the final moments, she nearly closed with a knockout, rocking Mercado with a left hook just before the final bell. There was no doubt when the decision came: This was Scotney’s fight from start to finish, and she beat Mercado via unanimous decision with the judges scoring 100-90, 98-92, 98-92 in her favor.
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Scotney dominates Mercado for WBC 122 lb title
England's Ellie Scotney added the WBC 122-pound title to her collection In Madison Square Garden. Scotney outfought Yamileth Mercado over ten sharp rounds, showcasing her precision and patience against an opponent who never stopped swinging but rarely connected. Scotney established her range early and never let go of the advantage, punishing Mercado’s wild aggression with crisp counters and clean combinations.
In the sixth round, Mercado sustained a deep cut over her eye (reminiscent of Serrano’s infamous cut courtesy of Taylor’s head at the 2024 Paul-Tyson affair), worsening under Scotney’s sustained offense.
As Mercado relied increasingly on clinching to stall the momentum, Scotney only grew more confident. In the final moments, she nearly closed with a knockout, rocking Mercado with a left hook just before the final bell. There was no doubt when the decision came: This was Scotney’s fight from start to finish, and she beat Mercado via unanimous decision with the judges scoring 100-90, 98-92, 98-92 in her favor.
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ProBox action today |
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Junior middleweight Vladimir Hernandez looks to make the most of his elevation to headliner on Saturday when he takes on Argentina’s Francisco Daniel Veron in a ten-rounder inside Fresno, California’s Save Mart Arena, live on ProBox TV. Hernandez and Veron find themselves atop the bill following the cancellation of Lester Martinez vs. Pierre Dibombe due to Martinez suffering from migraines in the final stages of his training camp. Hernandez, a 36-year-old Mexican who fights out of California, is no stranger to gate-crashing parties, however. The southpaw has scored upset victories over the likes of Alfredo Angulo, Julian Williams, Lorenzo Simpson, Guido Schramm, and Isaias Lucero in the past.
Veron, based in Florida, will have his work cut out in a contest that is exceptionally difficult to call. The 26-year-old is 14-1-1 (10 KOs) and was outpointed by Brandon Adams but can boast victory Angel Ruiz Astorga and he’s held Jahi Tucker to a draw. Victory here could land him a world ranking as Hernandez is 17-6 with 7 KOs.
The Mexican is fresh off that aforementioned victory over Lucero, which came on points after 10 rounds on a ProBox TV card in March. That success followed a win against Raul Garcia, again over ten rounds. Veron is coming off the loss to Adams but he was competitive all the way, eventually losing on points following a 10-rounder which saw one of the judges only score for Adams by a solitary point.
Elsewhere on the bill, in a junior bantamweight WBC title eliminator, 17-0 (8 KOs) Erick Badillo stakes his unbeaten record against Nicaraguan southpaw Gerardo Zapata, who fights out of Miami, Florida. Zapata, who lost a decision to the excellent champion Oscar Collazo last year, is 15-2-1 (5 KOs). The winner will then be in position to challenge WBC champion, Panya Pradabsri.
Bantamweight Katsuma Akitsugi risks his 12-0 (3 KOs) record against tough Filipino Jonas Sultan, who is 19-7 (11 KOs) and has been stopped only once. Katsuma fights out of Los Angeles but was born in Japan, and the southpaw returned with two stoppage wins last year following some time out of the ring.
Mongolian southpaw, Tsendbaatar Erdenebat – 12-0 (6 KOs) – fights out of Paramount, California, takes on Mexico-based Californian Humberto Galindo, who is 14-3-3 (11 KOs), and coming off two solid draws against Oscar Bravo and Abraham Nova.
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ProBox action today
Junior middleweight Vladimir Hernandez looks to make the most of his elevation to headliner on Saturday when he takes on Argentina’s Francisco Daniel Veron in a ten-rounder inside Fresno, California’s Save Mart Arena, live on ProBox TV. Hernandez and Veron find themselves atop the bill following the cancellation of Lester Martinez vs. Pierre Dibombe due to Martinez suffering from migraines in the final stages of his training camp. Hernandez, a 36-year-old Mexican who fights out of California, is no stranger to gate-crashing parties, however. The southpaw has scored upset victories over the likes of Alfredo Angulo, Julian Williams, Lorenzo Simpson, Guido Schramm, and Isaias Lucero in the past.
Veron, based in Florida, will have his work cut out in a contest that is exceptionally difficult to call. The 26-year-old is 14-1-1 (10 KOs) and was outpointed by Brandon Adams but can boast victory Angel Ruiz Astorga and he’s held Jahi Tucker to a draw. Victory here could land him a world ranking as Hernandez is 17-6 with 7 KOs.
The Mexican is fresh off that aforementioned victory over Lucero, which came on points after 10 rounds on a ProBox TV card in March. That success followed a win against Raul Garcia, again over ten rounds. Veron is coming off the loss to Adams but he was competitive all the way, eventually losing on points following a 10-rounder which saw one of the judges only score for Adams by a solitary point.
Elsewhere on the bill, in a junior bantamweight WBC title eliminator, 17-0 (8 KOs) Erick Badillo stakes his unbeaten record against Nicaraguan southpaw Gerardo Zapata, who fights out of Miami, Florida. Zapata, who lost a decision to the excellent champion Oscar Collazo last year, is 15-2-1 (5 KOs). The winner will then be in position to challenge WBC champion, Panya Pradabsri.
Bantamweight Katsuma Akitsugi risks his 12-0 (3 KOs) record against tough Filipino Jonas Sultan, who is 19-7 (11 KOs) and has been stopped only once. Katsuma fights out of Los Angeles but was born in Japan, and the southpaw returned with two stoppage wins last year following some time out of the ring.
Mongolian southpaw, Tsendbaatar Erdenebat – 12-0 (6 KOs) – fights out of Paramount, California, takes on Mexico-based Californian Humberto Galindo, who is 14-3-3 (11 KOs), and coming off two solid draws against Oscar Bravo and Abraham Nova.
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Weigh-in report from NYC |
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Tonight (Friday), Katie Taylor will be facing off with Amanda Serrano in a highly anticipated trilogy bout. Ireland’s undisputed world junior welterweight champion Katie “The Bray Bomber” Taylor (24–1, 6 KOs) will go head-to-head with Brooklyn’s Puerto Rican unified featherweight world champion, Serrano (47–3–1, 31 KOs). The fight comes eight months after the pair’s second go-round at Paul vs. Tyson, which Taylor won. Taylor vs. Serrano II was the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history, with an estimated 74 million live viewers globally. “I’m 2-0 against Amanda, but it’s obviously a very special rivalry that delivers every time we step in the ring, so I think it’s only right that we have the trilogy,” Taylor said of the upcoming rematch at MSG. “The atmosphere for the first fight there was amazing, and I’m sure it won’t be any different this time around.” Just like the pair’s first two matches, the fight on July 11th will be made up of 10, two-minute rounds, though Serrano hoped for a different round structure.
“I promised my fans they would see this trilogy, and I’m incredibly grateful that we get to complete our journey where it all began — at Madison Square Garden, live on Netflix for the world to see,” said Serrano. “I’m disappointed that Katie Taylor did not keep her word and make the trilogy 12 three-minute rounds, equal to the men. This is a record-setting payday for both of us, and we owe it to the fans to honor the handshake deal we made. She didn’t. But make no mistake, every time we share the ring, it is war, and I know Friday, July 11, will be the greatest yet because I will finally get the official W I deserve.”
WEIGH-IN RESULTS:
Katie Taylor 135.8 lbs
Amanda Serrano 136 lbs
Taylor vs. Serrano will stream live globally on Netflix from Madison Square Garden on July 11th, included in all Netflix memberships.is included with your Netflix subscription on all plans. Click here to learn more about watching live events on Netflix.
ADDITIONAL FEATURED BOUTS
MVP’s reigning undisputed 130-pound champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (15-1, 7 KOs) returns to the ring to face Spain’s undefeated WBA interim champion Jennifer Miranda (12-0, 1 KO). “Amanda and Katie have done incredible things for women’s boxing, and it’s an honor to share the card with them. But I didn’t come to stand beside greatness — I came to be it,” said Baumgardner.
“This night, this spotlight — it’s mine. Jennifer Miranda, I hope you’re ready — because I’m the one they warned you about. The pretty face with bad intentions. When that bell rings, it’s not personal, but it is going to hurt. My belts are staying with me.”
Miranda, who is currently ranked by Boxrec as the No. 3 featherweight in the world, plans to give the title-defender a run for her money in the10-round fight. You can also find her on Netflix in the Spanish series Money Heist — she plays Arantxa Arteche, a soldier in the special forces known for her skills in (you guessed it) combat.
“Alycia Baumgardner is an incredible champion, but this is my opportunity to become the first ever undisputed champion from Spain and I will do so,” said Miranda. “It’s time to write my name in the history books of boxing. Undisputed.”
WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Alycia Baumgardner 130 lbs
Jennifer Miranda 129.4 lbs
IBF super middleweight champion Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall (13-1, 10 KOs) will take on WBO super middleweight champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green (14-1, 11 KOs) in a ten-round, 168-pound world title unification bout. The fight marks the culmination of years of rivalry between Marshall and Green, both now signed under MVP’s women’s banner.
“Defending my IBF belt in a unification fight with Shadasia Green, on an all-women’s card such as this, is a great way to start my new journey with MVP,” Marshall told Netflix. “There are so many great women on one show at the iconic Madison Square Garden, and I’m beaming that I can play my part in it.”
Green is MVP’s first homegrown champion and WBO world titleholder at 168 pounds — when headlining the preliminary card of Paul vs. Tyson in November 2024, Green defeated Melinda Watpool to become the new WBO world champion. “I’m looking forward to putting on a great show, and I’m certain that Marshall will bring the best out of me,” said Green.
WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Savannah Marshall 167 lbs
Shadasia Green 167.2 lbs
MVP’s newest signee, England’s unified super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney (10-0) will face Mexico’s current and defending WBC super bantamweight champion Yamileth “Yeimi” Mercado (24-3, 5 KOs) on the main card of the highly anticipated Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy mega-event.The 27-year-old Scotney is a rising star in women’s boxing, having turned pro after a decorated amateur career and quickly racking up dominant wins en route to unifying the 122-pound division. “What MVP is doing for women’s boxing is changing the game, and I’m proud to be part of it,” Scotney told Netflix. “Fighting on the main card of Taylor vs. Serrano 3 at Madison Square Garden, live on Netflix — in another unification fight — is a massive moment in my career but it is one I know I am ready for. Yamileth Mercado might be the longest reigning champion in our division right now, but on July 11, I’ll be showing why I’m the No. 1 at 122 pounds and moving one step closer to becoming the undisputed champion.”
Mercado is the longest-reigning titleholder in the division, having defended her belt eight times since winning it in 2019 on home soil in Chihuahua, Mexico. “I am very excited to unify titles with Ellie Scotney and raise my WBC belt for my country, Mexico, and my home in Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, on MVP’s card at Madison Square Garden and in front of the world on Netflix,” Mercado said. “This fight will be a war, and we will continue to demonstrate that women's boxing brings a guarantee of both spectacle and boxing quality on Friday, July 11. Viva Mexico!”
WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Ellie Scotney 121.6 lbs
Yamileth Mercado 119.6 lbs
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Weigh-in report from NYC
Tonight (Friday), Katie Taylor will be facing off with Amanda Serrano in a highly anticipated trilogy bout. Ireland’s undisputed world junior welterweight champion Katie “The Bray Bomber” Taylor (24–1, 6 KOs) will go head-to-head with Brooklyn’s Puerto Rican unified featherweight world champion, Serrano (47–3–1, 31 KOs). The fight comes eight months after the pair’s second go-round at Paul vs. Tyson, which Taylor won. Taylor vs. Serrano II was the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history, with an estimated 74 million live viewers globally. “I’m 2-0 against Amanda, but it’s obviously a very special rivalry that delivers every time we step in the ring, so I think it’s only right that we have the trilogy,” Taylor said of the upcoming rematch at MSG. “The atmosphere for the first fight there was amazing, and I’m sure it won’t be any different this time around.” Just like the pair’s first two matches, the fight on July 11th will be made up of 10, two-minute rounds, though Serrano hoped for a different round structure.
“I promised my fans they would see this trilogy, and I’m incredibly grateful that we get to complete our journey where it all began — at Madison Square Garden, live on Netflix for the world to see,” said Serrano. “I’m disappointed that Katie Taylor did not keep her word and make the trilogy 12 three-minute rounds, equal to the men. This is a record-setting payday for both of us, and we owe it to the fans to honor the handshake deal we made. She didn’t. But make no mistake, every time we share the ring, it is war, and I know Friday, July 11, will be the greatest yet because I will finally get the official W I deserve.”
WEIGH-IN RESULTS:
Katie Taylor 135.8 lbs
Amanda Serrano 136 lbs
Taylor vs. Serrano will stream live globally on Netflix from Madison Square Garden on July 11th, included in all Netflix memberships.is included with your Netflix subscription on all plans. Click here to learn more about watching live events on Netflix.
ADDITIONAL FEATURED BOUTS
MVP’s reigning undisputed 130-pound champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (15-1, 7 KOs) returns to the ring to face Spain’s undefeated WBA interim champion Jennifer Miranda (12-0, 1 KO). “Amanda and Katie have done incredible things for women’s boxing, and it’s an honor to share the card with them. But I didn’t come to stand beside greatness — I came to be it,” said Baumgardner.
“This night, this spotlight — it’s mine. Jennifer Miranda, I hope you’re ready — because I’m the one they warned you about. The pretty face with bad intentions. When that bell rings, it’s not personal, but it is going to hurt. My belts are staying with me.”
Miranda, who is currently ranked by Boxrec as the No. 3 featherweight in the world, plans to give the title-defender a run for her money in the10-round fight. You can also find her on Netflix in the Spanish series Money Heist — she plays Arantxa Arteche, a soldier in the special forces known for her skills in (you guessed it) combat.
“Alycia Baumgardner is an incredible champion, but this is my opportunity to become the first ever undisputed champion from Spain and I will do so,” said Miranda. “It’s time to write my name in the history books of boxing. Undisputed.”
WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Alycia Baumgardner 130 lbs
Jennifer Miranda 129.4 lbs
IBF super middleweight champion Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall (13-1, 10 KOs) will take on WBO super middleweight champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green (14-1, 11 KOs) in a ten-round, 168-pound world title unification bout. The fight marks the culmination of years of rivalry between Marshall and Green, both now signed under MVP’s women’s banner.
“Defending my IBF belt in a unification fight with Shadasia Green, on an all-women’s card such as this, is a great way to start my new journey with MVP,” Marshall told Netflix. “There are so many great women on one show at the iconic Madison Square Garden, and I’m beaming that I can play my part in it.”
Green is MVP’s first homegrown champion and WBO world titleholder at 168 pounds — when headlining the preliminary card of Paul vs. Tyson in November 2024, Green defeated Melinda Watpool to become the new WBO world champion. “I’m looking forward to putting on a great show, and I’m certain that Marshall will bring the best out of me,” said Green.
WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Savannah Marshall 167 lbs
Shadasia Green 167.2 lbs
MVP’s newest signee, England’s unified super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney (10-0) will face Mexico’s current and defending WBC super bantamweight champion Yamileth “Yeimi” Mercado (24-3, 5 KOs) on the main card of the highly anticipated Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy mega-event.The 27-year-old Scotney is a rising star in women’s boxing, having turned pro after a decorated amateur career and quickly racking up dominant wins en route to unifying the 122-pound division. “What MVP is doing for women’s boxing is changing the game, and I’m proud to be part of it,” Scotney told Netflix. “Fighting on the main card of Taylor vs. Serrano 3 at Madison Square Garden, live on Netflix — in another unification fight — is a massive moment in my career but it is one I know I am ready for. Yamileth Mercado might be the longest reigning champion in our division right now, but on July 11, I’ll be showing why I’m the No. 1 at 122 pounds and moving one step closer to becoming the undisputed champion.”
Mercado is the longest-reigning titleholder in the division, having defended her belt eight times since winning it in 2019 on home soil in Chihuahua, Mexico. “I am very excited to unify titles with Ellie Scotney and raise my WBC belt for my country, Mexico, and my home in Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, on MVP’s card at Madison Square Garden and in front of the world on Netflix,” Mercado said. “This fight will be a war, and we will continue to demonstrate that women's boxing brings a guarantee of both spectacle and boxing quality on Friday, July 11. Viva Mexico!”
WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Ellie Scotney 121.6 lbs
Yamileth Mercado 119.6 lbs
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Op Ed, part 5: How Canelo, Jake and the WBA Became Pawns in a Bigger Game |
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In boxing, as in life, not all victories are won in the ring. Some are orchestrated behind closed doors — negotiated in silence, buried under nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) and paid for with promises that never see daylight. Canelo Alvarez (pictured), one of the most respected figures in modern boxing, may have just stepped into such a trap — not with gloves on, but with pen in hand. What looked like a lucrative opportunity may, in time, be remembered as a surrender — not to an opponent, but to an illusion of power. And the man behind that illusion? Turki Alalshikh. As the head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Turki has built boxing’s most extravagant stage: Riyadh Season. Fueled by bottomless oil wealth, he’s turned the desert into a global boxing destination — hosting Fury, Usyk, Joshua, Ngannou, and more. But behind the fireworks and press conferences lies a quiet truth: Turki doesn’t just promote fights. He curates power.
Fighters come not just to compete, but to comply. Appear in the photo ops. Say the right things. Fight the fights that serve the Kingdom’s narrative. For those who fall in line, the rewards are staggering. For those who don’t — silence, and in my opinion, exclusion and blacklisting. Jake Paul knows this better than anyone.
After building one of the most disruptive brands in boxing through Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), Paul brought new fans, new media, and new money into the sport. He elevated women’s boxing. He packed arenas without legacy promoters. He became, by every metric, a power player. But power — real power — threatens empires built on control. So when Jake Paul tried to finalize a fight for himself against Alvarez in early 2025, a bout that would have streamed globally on Netflix, it was more than a spectacle. It was a statement. It said that boxing’s biggest draw and boxing’s biggest disruptor could cut out the middlemen and meet on their own terms.
And then it vanished.
Sources close to MVP confirm that an NDA was exchanged. Talks were advanced. Venues were considered. But before a signature was obtained on the dotted line, Turki stepped in. He offered Canelo enormous sums, exclusive licensing, and a promise of 'elite' opponents — carefully curated to exclude the very threats Canelo once said he was willing to face. David Benavidez? Out. Dmitriy Bivol? Silent. Jake Paul? Erased.
This wasn’t a negotiation. It was a neutralization.
In choosing the Kingdom’s riches, Canelo may have unknowingly surrendered the one thing Jake Paul has never given up: independence. But what makes this trap even more insidious is what reliable sources now reveal: both Terence Crawford and his manager Ishmael Hinton are stakeholders in a new boxing league — League 1 — a league that Turki himself has aggressively tried to buy into. Sources close to the matter confirm that Turki’s offers were firmly rejected by League 1’s leadership, who feared his domineering style and insisted on building something outside his influence.
To make matters more complex, Hinton — who previously worked at Creative Artists Agency alongside Nick Khan, now a powerful figure at TKO — also advises Turki in select matters. That means the man managing Canelo’s next opponent is not only building a league Turki can’t buy into, but also quietly guiding Turki’s strategic plays. It’s a circle of influence in which Canelo may be the only one without a seat at the table.
So when Canelo steps into the ring with Crawford in September on a TKO show, it’s not just about belts. It’s a high-stakes proxy war — against men who have both the motive and the machinery to use the moment for their own league’s rise. In seeking short-term riches, Canelo may have lent his name, his legacy, and his drawing power to a long-term structure that could ultimately undermine him. And here’s the deeper trap: in Turki’s world, the winner almost doesn’t matter. Whether Canelo defeats Crawford or not, the story still belongs to the man who owns it — literally.
With full ownership of Ring Magazine, Turki doesn’t just stage the fight; he scripts the aftermath. The rankings, the headlines, the historical framing — all pass through a filter he controls. Even a loss can be reframed, repackaged, and redeemed. Because in this new empire, legacy isn’t earned. It’s leased.
Of course, Canelo may see this as a calculated gamble. Another $100 million in guaranteed earnings is nothing to dismiss — not in a sport where legacy often fades faster than fortune. Perhaps he believes that if Crawford wins, a rematch is inevitable. Bigger. Richer. And on terms that reassert his control.
But that presumes Canelo understands the forces aligned around him — and the extent to which the deck may already be stacked. Because if he doesn’t dominate Crawford, or worse, if he loses decisively, he may find that his power in the sport doesn’t return with the rematch clause. It transfers — permanently — to those who were playing a longer game all along. For all the spectacle, Canelo’s recent resume tells a different story. He hasn’t scored a knockout in four years, and his last opponents — John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, Jaime Munguia, Edgar Berlanga, and William Scull — have done little to advance his legacy. The pattern is clear to most in the boxing world: Canelo has systematically sidestepped David Benavidez, the undefeated super middleweight juggernaut fans have been demanding he face.
That avoidance has cost him more than just reputation points — it’s created a vacuum where his critics have thrived. Every “safe” fight reinforces the perception that the once-fearless Canelo is now more concerned with controlling the optics than conquering the division. In the eyes of many loyal fans, Canelo is no longer chasing greatness — he’s chasing the bag. The man who once unified divisions and demanded the toughest challenges has turned instead to B- and C-list opponents, passing over the fight that would define his era: a war with David Benavidez.
It’s become a pattern too familiar to ignore. Canelo’s recent resume — from Ryder to Munguia to Scull — reads less like a champion’s conquest and more like a curated exhibition tour. At some point, avoiding Benavidez stopped looking strategic and started looking scared.
In another era, this might have earned him a place among the great manipulators of boxing history — men like Jack Johnson, who, while brilliant, often negotiated themselves out of danger and into profit. But the difference is that Johnson’s opponents were still dangerous. Canelo’s haven’t been.
Legacy in boxing is not built by longevity or riches alone. It’s built by risk. By daring to meet the moment fans demand — not the moment your handlers design. And the longer Canelo runs from that moment, the more he rewrites his place in history — not as a king, but as a curator of his own decline. While many fans are calling Canelo vs. Crawford a historic clash, a colder truth lingers beneath the headlines: neither man is in his prime. And if the fight turns into another Tom and Jerry sequel — all movement, no menace — the only ones left breathless will be the accountants waiting for the wire to hit.
This isn’t Hagler vs. Hearns. This isn’t Ali vs. Frazier. This isn’t even Leonard vs. Duran I — a war of wills that defined two eras. It’s two legends cashing in while pretending to care. Legacy doesn’t live in empty pageantry — it lives in risk, in rivalry, in real stakes. And if they can’t give fans that, then history won’t remember their names for the fight they took… but for the ones they never did. But in every empire, there comes a moment when illusion replaces purpose — when power is no longer used to uplift but to control. It’s the oldest story in history. And it’s not just written in politics or promotions. It’s etched into scripture.
In the Qur’an, there was Qarun — a man so wealthy that even the keys to his treasure required strength to carry. He believed his riches were his own doing. He used them not to lift others, but to boast and dominate. And for that, the earth swallowed him whole. “Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant… Do good as Allah has done good to you. And do not seek corruption in the land.” (Surah Al-Qasas 28:76–83). Canelo, perhaps unknowingly, has taken the hand of a modern-day Qarun — drawn in by glittering promises, blind to the moral cost. And what he gave up wasn’t just a fight. It was control of his legacy.
Because in boxing, the loudest silence is the one that follows the fight that never happened.
On July 7th, sources confirm that Jake Paul and Turki Al Sheikh met face-to-face — reportedly to bury the hatchet. The meeting, long overdue, could mark a softening in Turki’s stance. Perhaps, for the first time, the Saudi powerbroker is realizing that in the U.S., unlike in Riyadh, there are legal guardrails: laws against coercion, restraint of trade, and monopolistic control that don’t yield to sovereign wealth or staged applause.
But if this meeting was a reset — it also marks a crossroads. The WBA was the only sanctioning body thus far willing to take the reputational risk of ranking Jake Paul when others cowered behind tradition. Their decision wasn’t just bold — it was principled. And for that, they’ve paid dearly. Multiple sources now confirm that Turki, enraged by the ranking, has threatened to pull funding and hosting rights from the WBA’s upcoming GENNEXT tournament — a global platform that was set to follow the WBC Grand Prix.
Jake Paul may now find himself at a defining moment. If he chooses to move forward with Turki while leaving the WBA exposed to vindictive retaliation, it won’t just be a political calculation. It will be a public statement about who he really is. Because standing up to gatekeepers only matters if you also stand beside those who stood with you when it counted. And if Jake shrinks from that responsibility — if he allows Turki to punish the only institution that dared to treat him fairly — then maybe, just maybe, he and Canelo aren’t that different after all.
Maybe they’re both willing to trade legacy for leverage — and truth for convenience. In that case, the mirage isn’t just Turki’s. It’s theirs too.
Stay tuned for Part 6 — where the mirage begins to crack, and the real battle for boxing’s soul begins.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO FOUR PRIOR ONES BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART THREE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART FOUR CAN BE READ HERE.
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Op Ed, part 5: How Canelo, Jake and the WBA Became Pawns in a Bigger Game
In boxing, as in life, not all victories are won in the ring. Some are orchestrated behind closed doors — negotiated in silence, buried under nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) and paid for with promises that never see daylight. Canelo Alvarez (pictured), one of the most respected figures in modern boxing, may have just stepped into such a trap — not with gloves on, but with pen in hand. What looked like a lucrative opportunity may, in time, be remembered as a surrender — not to an opponent, but to an illusion of power. And the man behind that illusion? Turki Alalshikh. As the head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Turki has built boxing’s most extravagant stage: Riyadh Season. Fueled by bottomless oil wealth, he’s turned the desert into a global boxing destination — hosting Fury, Usyk, Joshua, Ngannou, and more. But behind the fireworks and press conferences lies a quiet truth: Turki doesn’t just promote fights. He curates power.
Fighters come not just to compete, but to comply. Appear in the photo ops. Say the right things. Fight the fights that serve the Kingdom’s narrative. For those who fall in line, the rewards are staggering. For those who don’t — silence, and in my opinion, exclusion and blacklisting. Jake Paul knows this better than anyone.
After building one of the most disruptive brands in boxing through Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), Paul brought new fans, new media, and new money into the sport. He elevated women’s boxing. He packed arenas without legacy promoters. He became, by every metric, a power player. But power — real power — threatens empires built on control. So when Jake Paul tried to finalize a fight for himself against Alvarez in early 2025, a bout that would have streamed globally on Netflix, it was more than a spectacle. It was a statement. It said that boxing’s biggest draw and boxing’s biggest disruptor could cut out the middlemen and meet on their own terms.
And then it vanished.
Sources close to MVP confirm that an NDA was exchanged. Talks were advanced. Venues were considered. But before a signature was obtained on the dotted line, Turki stepped in. He offered Canelo enormous sums, exclusive licensing, and a promise of 'elite' opponents — carefully curated to exclude the very threats Canelo once said he was willing to face. David Benavidez? Out. Dmitriy Bivol? Silent. Jake Paul? Erased.
This wasn’t a negotiation. It was a neutralization.
In choosing the Kingdom’s riches, Canelo may have unknowingly surrendered the one thing Jake Paul has never given up: independence. But what makes this trap even more insidious is what reliable sources now reveal: both Terence Crawford and his manager Ishmael Hinton are stakeholders in a new boxing league — League 1 — a league that Turki himself has aggressively tried to buy into. Sources close to the matter confirm that Turki’s offers were firmly rejected by League 1’s leadership, who feared his domineering style and insisted on building something outside his influence.
To make matters more complex, Hinton — who previously worked at Creative Artists Agency alongside Nick Khan, now a powerful figure at TKO — also advises Turki in select matters. That means the man managing Canelo’s next opponent is not only building a league Turki can’t buy into, but also quietly guiding Turki’s strategic plays. It’s a circle of influence in which Canelo may be the only one without a seat at the table.
So when Canelo steps into the ring with Crawford in September on a TKO show, it’s not just about belts. It’s a high-stakes proxy war — against men who have both the motive and the machinery to use the moment for their own league’s rise. In seeking short-term riches, Canelo may have lent his name, his legacy, and his drawing power to a long-term structure that could ultimately undermine him. And here’s the deeper trap: in Turki’s world, the winner almost doesn’t matter. Whether Canelo defeats Crawford or not, the story still belongs to the man who owns it — literally.
With full ownership of Ring Magazine, Turki doesn’t just stage the fight; he scripts the aftermath. The rankings, the headlines, the historical framing — all pass through a filter he controls. Even a loss can be reframed, repackaged, and redeemed. Because in this new empire, legacy isn’t earned. It’s leased.
Of course, Canelo may see this as a calculated gamble. Another $100 million in guaranteed earnings is nothing to dismiss — not in a sport where legacy often fades faster than fortune. Perhaps he believes that if Crawford wins, a rematch is inevitable. Bigger. Richer. And on terms that reassert his control.
But that presumes Canelo understands the forces aligned around him — and the extent to which the deck may already be stacked. Because if he doesn’t dominate Crawford, or worse, if he loses decisively, he may find that his power in the sport doesn’t return with the rematch clause. It transfers — permanently — to those who were playing a longer game all along. For all the spectacle, Canelo’s recent resume tells a different story. He hasn’t scored a knockout in four years, and his last opponents — John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, Jaime Munguia, Edgar Berlanga, and William Scull — have done little to advance his legacy. The pattern is clear to most in the boxing world: Canelo has systematically sidestepped David Benavidez, the undefeated super middleweight juggernaut fans have been demanding he face.
That avoidance has cost him more than just reputation points — it’s created a vacuum where his critics have thrived. Every “safe” fight reinforces the perception that the once-fearless Canelo is now more concerned with controlling the optics than conquering the division. In the eyes of many loyal fans, Canelo is no longer chasing greatness — he’s chasing the bag. The man who once unified divisions and demanded the toughest challenges has turned instead to B- and C-list opponents, passing over the fight that would define his era: a war with David Benavidez.
It’s become a pattern too familiar to ignore. Canelo’s recent resume — from Ryder to Munguia to Scull — reads less like a champion’s conquest and more like a curated exhibition tour. At some point, avoiding Benavidez stopped looking strategic and started looking scared.
In another era, this might have earned him a place among the great manipulators of boxing history — men like Jack Johnson, who, while brilliant, often negotiated themselves out of danger and into profit. But the difference is that Johnson’s opponents were still dangerous. Canelo’s haven’t been.
Legacy in boxing is not built by longevity or riches alone. It’s built by risk. By daring to meet the moment fans demand — not the moment your handlers design. And the longer Canelo runs from that moment, the more he rewrites his place in history — not as a king, but as a curator of his own decline. While many fans are calling Canelo vs. Crawford a historic clash, a colder truth lingers beneath the headlines: neither man is in his prime. And if the fight turns into another Tom and Jerry sequel — all movement, no menace — the only ones left breathless will be the accountants waiting for the wire to hit.
This isn’t Hagler vs. Hearns. This isn’t Ali vs. Frazier. This isn’t even Leonard vs. Duran I — a war of wills that defined two eras. It’s two legends cashing in while pretending to care. Legacy doesn’t live in empty pageantry — it lives in risk, in rivalry, in real stakes. And if they can’t give fans that, then history won’t remember their names for the fight they took… but for the ones they never did. But in every empire, there comes a moment when illusion replaces purpose — when power is no longer used to uplift but to control. It’s the oldest story in history. And it’s not just written in politics or promotions. It’s etched into scripture.
In the Qur’an, there was Qarun — a man so wealthy that even the keys to his treasure required strength to carry. He believed his riches were his own doing. He used them not to lift others, but to boast and dominate. And for that, the earth swallowed him whole. “Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant… Do good as Allah has done good to you. And do not seek corruption in the land.” (Surah Al-Qasas 28:76–83). Canelo, perhaps unknowingly, has taken the hand of a modern-day Qarun — drawn in by glittering promises, blind to the moral cost. And what he gave up wasn’t just a fight. It was control of his legacy.
Because in boxing, the loudest silence is the one that follows the fight that never happened.
On July 7th, sources confirm that Jake Paul and Turki Al Sheikh met face-to-face — reportedly to bury the hatchet. The meeting, long overdue, could mark a softening in Turki’s stance. Perhaps, for the first time, the Saudi powerbroker is realizing that in the U.S., unlike in Riyadh, there are legal guardrails: laws against coercion, restraint of trade, and monopolistic control that don’t yield to sovereign wealth or staged applause.
But if this meeting was a reset — it also marks a crossroads. The WBA was the only sanctioning body thus far willing to take the reputational risk of ranking Jake Paul when others cowered behind tradition. Their decision wasn’t just bold — it was principled. And for that, they’ve paid dearly. Multiple sources now confirm that Turki, enraged by the ranking, has threatened to pull funding and hosting rights from the WBA’s upcoming GENNEXT tournament — a global platform that was set to follow the WBC Grand Prix.
Jake Paul may now find himself at a defining moment. If he chooses to move forward with Turki while leaving the WBA exposed to vindictive retaliation, it won’t just be a political calculation. It will be a public statement about who he really is. Because standing up to gatekeepers only matters if you also stand beside those who stood with you when it counted. And if Jake shrinks from that responsibility — if he allows Turki to punish the only institution that dared to treat him fairly — then maybe, just maybe, he and Canelo aren’t that different after all.
Maybe they’re both willing to trade legacy for leverage — and truth for convenience. In that case, the mirage isn’t just Turki’s. It’s theirs too.
Stay tuned for Part 6 — where the mirage begins to crack, and the real battle for boxing’s soul begins.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO FOUR PRIOR ONES BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART THREE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART FOUR CAN BE READ HERE.
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WBC looking into failed PED tests for Munguia and Rodriguez |
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The WBC has noted two adverse findings for banned perfomance enhancing drugs (PEDs) under its Clean Boxing Program. The two boxers are former 154-pound title holder Jaume Munguia and Francisco "Chihuas" Rodriguez, who last week won a WBC interim title. The WBC says its Results Management Unit has started the evaluation process [but both boxers are Mexican, leading to questions about whether the Mexico-based WBC will act neutrally]. According to the WBC: "The WBC CBP Results Management Unit has been in direct communication with Jaime Munguia and his representatives. Mr. Munguía's team has been 100% cooperative. The WBC has received detailed information and supporting documents which will allow a full evaluation and eventual ruling. The WBC CBP will report on the matter as it continues its investigation and evaluation process.... VADA has notified the WBC that a sample collected from Francisco "Chihuas" Rodriguez after his last bout has yielded an Adverse Finding. Upon VADA's notification to Mr. Rodriguez, the WBC CBP made contact with him and his representatives. The Results Management process in that case has begun."
The WBC Clean Boxing Program was established in collaboration with VADA under the leadership of Dr. Margaret Goodman in 2015.
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WBC looking into failed PED tests for Munguia and Rodriguez
The WBC has noted two adverse findings for banned perfomance enhancing drugs (PEDs) under its Clean Boxing Program. The two boxers are former 154-pound title holder Jaume Munguia and Francisco "Chihuas" Rodriguez, who last week won a WBC interim title. The WBC says its Results Management Unit has started the evaluation process [but both boxers are Mexican, leading to questions about whether the Mexico-based WBC will act neutrally]. According to the WBC: "The WBC CBP Results Management Unit has been in direct communication with Jaime Munguia and his representatives. Mr. Munguía's team has been 100% cooperative. The WBC has received detailed information and supporting documents which will allow a full evaluation and eventual ruling. The WBC CBP will report on the matter as it continues its investigation and evaluation process.... VADA has notified the WBC that a sample collected from Francisco "Chihuas" Rodriguez after his last bout has yielded an Adverse Finding. Upon VADA's notification to Mr. Rodriguez, the WBC CBP made contact with him and his representatives. The Results Management process in that case has begun."
The WBC Clean Boxing Program was established in collaboration with VADA under the leadership of Dr. Margaret Goodman in 2015.
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Saturday's DAZN PPV line-up |
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The WBC lightweight championship will be on the line on Saturday, as Shakur Stevenson defends his crown against unbeaten William Zepeda as part of a blockbuster New York City fight card, live on DAZN pay-per-view. Stevenson, who hales from across the Hudson River in Newark, New Jersey, will head to the Big Apple looking to keep his strap against the Mexican, himself fresh off a pair of wins over ex-title holder Tevin Farmer. Zepeda has earned interim credentials to challenge for this honor, and will be a tricky foe - but it will still be the home favorite who has the crowd at his back in New York.
Another local favorite, Edgar Berlanga, takes on Great Britain's Hamzah Sheeraz to follow Stevenson-Zepeda.
The night begins on DAZN at 6pm ET / 3pm PT. Here is thge line-up:
Edgar Berlanga vs. Hamzah Sheeraz (super middleweights);
Shakur Stevenson vs. William Zepeda (WBC lightweight title);
Alberto Puello vs. Subriel Matias (WBC junior welterweight title); and
David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev (light heavyweights).
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Saturday's DAZN PPV line-up
The WBC lightweight championship will be on the line on Saturday, as Shakur Stevenson defends his crown against unbeaten William Zepeda as part of a blockbuster New York City fight card, live on DAZN pay-per-view. Stevenson, who hales from across the Hudson River in Newark, New Jersey, will head to the Big Apple looking to keep his strap against the Mexican, himself fresh off a pair of wins over ex-title holder Tevin Farmer. Zepeda has earned interim credentials to challenge for this honor, and will be a tricky foe - but it will still be the home favorite who has the crowd at his back in New York.
Another local favorite, Edgar Berlanga, takes on Great Britain's Hamzah Sheeraz to follow Stevenson-Zepeda.
The night begins on DAZN at 6pm ET / 3pm PT. Here is thge line-up:
Edgar Berlanga vs. Hamzah Sheeraz (super middleweights);
Shakur Stevenson vs. William Zepeda (WBC lightweight title);
Alberto Puello vs. Subriel Matias (WBC junior welterweight title); and
David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev (light heavyweights).
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A few words with Tim Tszyu |
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Australian superstar and former world champion Tim Tszyu held a Las Vegas media workout on Thursday ahead of his much anticipated rematch against WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora which is part of a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, July 19th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Two of the top fighters in the stacked 154-pound division Fundora and Tszyu will meet in a 12-round rematch after their first fight saw Tszyu suffer a grisly cut in round three from an inadvertent Fundora elbow. The then WBO 154-pound champion Tszyu chose to fight on instead of bow out due to the cut, eventually losing his title, along with the then-vacant WBC belt, to Fundora by a close decision. On July 19, these two rivals look to settle the score and establish who is number one at 154-pounds. The four-fight pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao continuing his historic career by challenging WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in the main event. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
Here is what Tszyu had to say Thursday from Split T Boxing Club in Las Vegas:
“This is unfinished business for sure. I wasn’t able to show myself completely the first time, and now I get to rewrite history.
“I feel like the knockout is gonna come. I just have to stay patient. About a year ago I was going too much for it, and you can’t do that in boxing, especially at the top level. When it comes, it comes.
“I can’t wait to get in the ring so that I can punish him. I’ve got a lot to prove. I wouldn’t say there’s bad blood, but I wanna take his head off. This is gonna be a fan-friendly fight.
“It’s hard for anyone to adjust to Fundora’s height. It’s a core advantage that he’s got. But there’s little things we have prepared for it.
“I’m fighting on an iconic stage at MGM Grand. It’s a young kid’s dream to be fighting at this level.
“It’s nice to have a proper preparation to focus on Sebastian Fundora, because he’s a different type of boxer with his physical attributes.
“This is a massive card with Manny coming back to do historic things. This card has everything. It’s a real global boxing stage. It’s gonna be a hell of a show. I really think it’s gonna be the card of the year.
“I think the fact that we know each other and have shared the ring with each other, will make us even better in the rematch. We’ll both make adjustments and we’ll see who makes the correct ones on the night.
“The most important thing at this point in training camp is staying loose. The hard work is nearly finished. I’m feeling nice and sharp and staying relaxed.
“I used to envision future fights a little too much. This time it’s 100% Fundora focused.”
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A few words with Tim Tszyu
Australian superstar and former world champion Tim Tszyu held a Las Vegas media workout on Thursday ahead of his much anticipated rematch against WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora which is part of a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, July 19th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Two of the top fighters in the stacked 154-pound division Fundora and Tszyu will meet in a 12-round rematch after their first fight saw Tszyu suffer a grisly cut in round three from an inadvertent Fundora elbow. The then WBO 154-pound champion Tszyu chose to fight on instead of bow out due to the cut, eventually losing his title, along with the then-vacant WBC belt, to Fundora by a close decision. On July 19, these two rivals look to settle the score and establish who is number one at 154-pounds. The four-fight pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao continuing his historic career by challenging WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in the main event. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
Here is what Tszyu had to say Thursday from Split T Boxing Club in Las Vegas:
“This is unfinished business for sure. I wasn’t able to show myself completely the first time, and now I get to rewrite history.
“I feel like the knockout is gonna come. I just have to stay patient. About a year ago I was going too much for it, and you can’t do that in boxing, especially at the top level. When it comes, it comes.
“I can’t wait to get in the ring so that I can punish him. I’ve got a lot to prove. I wouldn’t say there’s bad blood, but I wanna take his head off. This is gonna be a fan-friendly fight.
“It’s hard for anyone to adjust to Fundora’s height. It’s a core advantage that he’s got. But there’s little things we have prepared for it.
“I’m fighting on an iconic stage at MGM Grand. It’s a young kid’s dream to be fighting at this level.
“It’s nice to have a proper preparation to focus on Sebastian Fundora, because he’s a different type of boxer with his physical attributes.
“This is a massive card with Manny coming back to do historic things. This card has everything. It’s a real global boxing stage. It’s gonna be a hell of a show. I really think it’s gonna be the card of the year.
“I think the fact that we know each other and have shared the ring with each other, will make us even better in the rematch. We’ll both make adjustments and we’ll see who makes the correct ones on the night.
“The most important thing at this point in training camp is staying loose. The hard work is nearly finished. I’m feeling nice and sharp and staying relaxed.
“I used to envision future fights a little too much. This time it’s 100% Fundora focused.”
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Fresno hosts light flyweight eliminator Saturday |
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Mexico's Erick Badillo is set to face Gerardo Zapata on July 12th at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California. The bout is a WBC light flyweight title eliminator, meaning the winner will earn the right to challenge the reigning champion, Thailand’s Panya Pradabsri. Badillo brings an undefeated record of 17 wins, including 8 by knockout. His best win was over previously undefeated Neider Valdez Aguilar in 2024. Zapata enters the ring with a record of 15 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw, and 5 KOs. Born in Nicaragua, Zapata went twelve rounds in a failed 105-pound title bid vs. Oscar Collazo, one of the best little men in the game.
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Fresno hosts light flyweight eliminator Saturday
Mexico's Erick Badillo is set to face Gerardo Zapata on July 12th at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California. The bout is a WBC light flyweight title eliminator, meaning the winner will earn the right to challenge the reigning champion, Thailand’s Panya Pradabsri. Badillo brings an undefeated record of 17 wins, including 8 by knockout. His best win was over previously undefeated Neider Valdez Aguilar in 2024. Zapata enters the ring with a record of 15 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw, and 5 KOs. Born in Nicaragua, Zapata went twelve rounds in a failed 105-pound title bid vs. Oscar Collazo, one of the best little men in the game.
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Late results from Russia: Munoz KOs Agrba |
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Rubén Neri Muñoz KO2 Khariton Agrba... A major night of action unfolded on July 5th in Ekaterinburg, Russia, as three WBA-sanctioned title eliminators shaped the immediate future of the super bantamweight, junior welterweight, and junior middleweight divisions. The shock of the night came in the 140-pound bout, where Argentina’s Rubén Neri Muñoz (18-2, 14 KOs) delivered a second-round knockout over previously undefeated Russian Khariton Agrba (15-1, 9 KOs). After a cautious opening round, Muñoz unleashed a vicious left cross that dropped Agrba flat — no count necessary. The referee immediately waved it off, as Muñoz’s team erupted in celebration.
Pavel Sosulin W12 Magomed Kurbanov... At junior middleweight, Pavel Sosulin (12-0, 6 KOs) edged former title challenger Magomed Kurbanov (26-2, 14 KOs) by split decision in a high-level, closely contested bout between two Russians. The scorecards read 116-112, 112-116, and 115-113 — reflecting the tight nature of the bout. Sosulin, despite having less experience, impressed with his steady pace and tactical adaptability, while Kurbanov struggled to impose his physicality at close range.
Muhammad Shekhov W10 Rodrigo Ruiz... In the super bantamweight clash, Uzbek southpaw Muhammad Shekhov (17-0-1, 4 KOs) turned in a disciplined, tactical performance to earn a unanimous decision over Argentina’s Rodrigo “C4” Ruiz (22-1, 16 KOs). Shekhov controlled the distance with intelligent footwork and crisp counters, effectively neutralizing Ruiz’s power. Judges scored it 97-91, 96-92 and 95-93 — all in favor of Shekhov, who now solidifies his place in the 122-pound division.
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Late results from Russia: Munoz KOs Agrba
Rubén Neri Muñoz KO2 Khariton Agrba... A major night of action unfolded on July 5th in Ekaterinburg, Russia, as three WBA-sanctioned title eliminators shaped the immediate future of the super bantamweight, junior welterweight, and junior middleweight divisions. The shock of the night came in the 140-pound bout, where Argentina’s Rubén Neri Muñoz (18-2, 14 KOs) delivered a second-round knockout over previously undefeated Russian Khariton Agrba (15-1, 9 KOs). After a cautious opening round, Muñoz unleashed a vicious left cross that dropped Agrba flat — no count necessary. The referee immediately waved it off, as Muñoz’s team erupted in celebration.
Pavel Sosulin W12 Magomed Kurbanov... At junior middleweight, Pavel Sosulin (12-0, 6 KOs) edged former title challenger Magomed Kurbanov (26-2, 14 KOs) by split decision in a high-level, closely contested bout between two Russians. The scorecards read 116-112, 112-116, and 115-113 — reflecting the tight nature of the bout. Sosulin, despite having less experience, impressed with his steady pace and tactical adaptability, while Kurbanov struggled to impose his physicality at close range.
Muhammad Shekhov W10 Rodrigo Ruiz... In the super bantamweight clash, Uzbek southpaw Muhammad Shekhov (17-0-1, 4 KOs) turned in a disciplined, tactical performance to earn a unanimous decision over Argentina’s Rodrigo “C4” Ruiz (22-1, 16 KOs). Shekhov controlled the distance with intelligent footwork and crisp counters, effectively neutralizing Ruiz’s power. Judges scored it 97-91, 96-92 and 95-93 — all in favor of Shekhov, who now solidifies his place in the 122-pound division.
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Are Turki and Jake planning to work together? |
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Jake Paul tweeted a picture of himself meeting with Turki Alalshikh (likely in New York City), and commented: "My / MVP's goal has always been to disrupt and grow boxing, and Turki has done that in massive ways. Collaborating only helps ensure boxing, for women and men, continues to grow and regain its place as the biggest sport in the world." However, with Paul heavily invested in women's boxing and Alalshikh not so invested, a partnership that goes beyond fights involving Paul himself could face some obstacles.
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Are Turki and Jake planning to work together?
Jake Paul tweeted a picture of himself meeting with Turki Alalshikh (likely in New York City), and commented: "My / MVP's goal has always been to disrupt and grow boxing, and Turki has done that in massive ways. Collaborating only helps ensure boxing, for women and men, continues to grow and regain its place as the biggest sport in the world." However, with Paul heavily invested in women's boxing and Alalshikh not so invested, a partnership that goes beyond fights involving Paul himself could face some obstacles.
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Jake Paul Op Ed, Part 4: The Empire and the Outlaw |
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In a sport long controlled by gatekeepers, Jake Paul was never supposed to matter. He wasn’t born into boxing royalty. He didn’t come up through the amateur system. He never asked for permission. And yet today, Jake Paul — the YouTuber-turned-fighter, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) with Nakisa Bidarian— have done something boxing’s billionaires couldn’t: they made the sport matter again to an entirely new generation. He’s sold out major arenas. He’s headlined events that have broken global streaming records. He’s elevated fighters like Amanda Serrano, who went from underpaid champion to main-eventing a sold-out Madison Square Garden in the most important women’s fight in boxing history. But success like that doesn’t go unnoticed — especially by those who’ve spent hundreds of millions to control the sport.
Enter Turki Alalshikh
Turki Alashikh is the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and the unelected gatekeeper of boxing’s new economic empire. Backed by his country’s oil wealth, Turki has hosted the world’s biggest fights — Fury vs. Ngannou, Usyk vs. Joshua I and II, and the recent undisputed heavyweight clash, Usyk vs. Fury. II. His cards come with fireworks, glitz, and headlines, and often turn out to be duds. In other words, the firework never materialize. But behind the spectacle lies a problem: people aren’t buying the soul he’s trying to sell.
Tom & Jerry Fights
The Saudi-sponsored events often lack the energy of real fandom. Seats go unfilled. Fighters take massive paydays only to dance around the ring in what even Turki himself calls “Tom & Jerry” performances. The crowds are curated. The fights feel like exhibitions. The outcomes—while official—carry little of the grit that built boxing’s mythos.
And then there’s Jake Paul — doing everything Turki cannot.
While Turki uses money to manufacture moments, Jake Paul has used media savvy and authenticity to build movements. He packs arenas in Dallas, Tampa, Cleveland. His fights pull millions on Netflix. His storytelling connects with Gen Z. His brand isn’t built on state funding — it’s built on belief.
So why is Jake Paul consistently absent from Riyadh Season? Because he’s proven that boxing doesn’t need oil money to thrive. It just needs relevance.
Sources close to MVP confirm that multiple overtures to participate in Saudi-hosted events were either denied or ghosted. Fighters under MVP’s banner, mostly women, are quietly excluded [Saudi Arabia is not the most enlightened place when it comes to female boxing and women's rights in general]. Paul himself is never invited, never mentioned, never part of the picture. This isn’t oversight — it’s orchestration.
The Canelo Coup
The final blow came in February, 2025 when Jake Paul was on the brink of finalizing a fight with world super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez — a match that would’ve combined Jake’s media power with boxing’s most respected name. The deal was nearly done. A non-discosure agreement was reportedly exchanged in order to keep negotiations secret and confidential for all parties involved. The fight would’ve streamed globally on Netflix. It was the kind of crossover event that could change the sport forever.
And then? Turki stepped in, allegedly enticing Canelo with an irresistible package — enormous money, long-term licensing, and promises of so called elite opponents. But elite names such as David Benavidez, David Morrell and Dmitry Bivol seem to be absent at Canelo’s insistence. So much for “elite fighters.” Canelo, who once publicly told Turki, “I do things on my terms,” found himself slowly pulled into the empire he’d once resisted.
Jake was out. The story was buried. The fans would never know what they missed.
But the most shocking twist? Canelo may have just walked into something far worse.
In the next installment (Part 5), we'll consider a shadow alliance, a silent betrayal, and the trap Canelo never saw coming. Stay tuned for Part 5: The Trap Canelo Never Saw Coming.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO THREE PRIOR ONES BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART THREE IS AVAILABLE HERE.
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Jake Paul Op Ed, Part 4: The Empire and the Outlaw
In a sport long controlled by gatekeepers, Jake Paul was never supposed to matter. He wasn’t born into boxing royalty. He didn’t come up through the amateur system. He never asked for permission. And yet today, Jake Paul — the YouTuber-turned-fighter, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) with Nakisa Bidarian— have done something boxing’s billionaires couldn’t: they made the sport matter again to an entirely new generation. He’s sold out major arenas. He’s headlined events that have broken global streaming records. He’s elevated fighters like Amanda Serrano, who went from underpaid champion to main-eventing a sold-out Madison Square Garden in the most important women’s fight in boxing history. But success like that doesn’t go unnoticed — especially by those who’ve spent hundreds of millions to control the sport.
Enter Turki Alalshikh
Turki Alashikh is the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and the unelected gatekeeper of boxing’s new economic empire. Backed by his country’s oil wealth, Turki has hosted the world’s biggest fights — Fury vs. Ngannou, Usyk vs. Joshua I and II, and the recent undisputed heavyweight clash, Usyk vs. Fury. II. His cards come with fireworks, glitz, and headlines, and often turn out to be duds. In other words, the firework never materialize. But behind the spectacle lies a problem: people aren’t buying the soul he’s trying to sell.
Tom & Jerry Fights
The Saudi-sponsored events often lack the energy of real fandom. Seats go unfilled. Fighters take massive paydays only to dance around the ring in what even Turki himself calls “Tom & Jerry” performances. The crowds are curated. The fights feel like exhibitions. The outcomes—while official—carry little of the grit that built boxing’s mythos.
And then there’s Jake Paul — doing everything Turki cannot.
While Turki uses money to manufacture moments, Jake Paul has used media savvy and authenticity to build movements. He packs arenas in Dallas, Tampa, Cleveland. His fights pull millions on Netflix. His storytelling connects with Gen Z. His brand isn’t built on state funding — it’s built on belief.
So why is Jake Paul consistently absent from Riyadh Season? Because he’s proven that boxing doesn’t need oil money to thrive. It just needs relevance.
Sources close to MVP confirm that multiple overtures to participate in Saudi-hosted events were either denied or ghosted. Fighters under MVP’s banner, mostly women, are quietly excluded [Saudi Arabia is not the most enlightened place when it comes to female boxing and women's rights in general]. Paul himself is never invited, never mentioned, never part of the picture. This isn’t oversight — it’s orchestration.
The Canelo Coup
The final blow came in February, 2025 when Jake Paul was on the brink of finalizing a fight with world super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez — a match that would’ve combined Jake’s media power with boxing’s most respected name. The deal was nearly done. A non-discosure agreement was reportedly exchanged in order to keep negotiations secret and confidential for all parties involved. The fight would’ve streamed globally on Netflix. It was the kind of crossover event that could change the sport forever.
And then? Turki stepped in, allegedly enticing Canelo with an irresistible package — enormous money, long-term licensing, and promises of so called elite opponents. But elite names such as David Benavidez, David Morrell and Dmitry Bivol seem to be absent at Canelo’s insistence. So much for “elite fighters.” Canelo, who once publicly told Turki, “I do things on my terms,” found himself slowly pulled into the empire he’d once resisted.
Jake was out. The story was buried. The fans would never know what they missed.
But the most shocking twist? Canelo may have just walked into something far worse.
In the next installment (Part 5), we'll consider a shadow alliance, a silent betrayal, and the trap Canelo never saw coming. Stay tuned for Part 5: The Trap Canelo Never Saw Coming.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO THREE PRIOR ONES BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART THREE IS AVAILABLE HERE.
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Unknown Yunovidov stops Romanov for interim belt |
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Georgiy Yunovidov TKO5 Evgeny Romanov ... In an upset, Georgiy Yunovidov (11-1, 7 KOs) stopped veteran Evgeny Romanov (19-2, 12 KOs) to claim the WBA interim bridgerweight title at the DIVS Arena in Ekaterinburg, Russia. It was a weak ending as Romanov simply quit after round five.Yunovidov, age 32, entered the bout as a clear underdog — with just 11 professional fights and no prior experience on the world stage. It was a crushing blow for Romanov's career. He was once considered a contender in the 224-pound division, but now has suffered back-to-back KO defeats. Editor's note: why was the WBA sanctioning a man coming off a KO loss (Romanov) vs. an undistinguished boxer for an interim title? For Yunovidov, it was a breakout moment: not only did he seize the interim world title, but he now inserts himself squarely into the race for a shot at the WBA’s full championship, currently held by Muslim Gadzimagomedov.
From the opening bell, the rangy Russian made his intentions clear, using his superior reach to establish distance, snapping jabs, and landing straight shots whenever Romanov tried to close the gap.
Romanov, age 39, looked to bring the fight inside and bank on his power, but he struggled to match Yunovidov’s speed, accuracy, and ring IQ. Through five rounds, the bout remained competitive, but the tide turned in the sixth. After landing a sharp combination to the body and head, Yunovidov visibly rocked Romanov. With his opponent hurt and unable to respond, the referee stepped in and called a halt to the bout, awarding Yunovidov the technical knockout victory.
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Unknown Yunovidov stops Romanov for interim belt
Georgiy Yunovidov TKO5 Evgeny Romanov ... In an upset, Georgiy Yunovidov (11-1, 7 KOs) stopped veteran Evgeny Romanov (19-2, 12 KOs) to claim the WBA interim bridgerweight title at the DIVS Arena in Ekaterinburg, Russia. It was a weak ending as Romanov simply quit after round five.Yunovidov, age 32, entered the bout as a clear underdog — with just 11 professional fights and no prior experience on the world stage. It was a crushing blow for Romanov's career. He was once considered a contender in the 224-pound division, but now has suffered back-to-back KO defeats. Editor's note: why was the WBA sanctioning a man coming off a KO loss (Romanov) vs. an undistinguished boxer for an interim title? For Yunovidov, it was a breakout moment: not only did he seize the interim world title, but he now inserts himself squarely into the race for a shot at the WBA’s full championship, currently held by Muslim Gadzimagomedov.
From the opening bell, the rangy Russian made his intentions clear, using his superior reach to establish distance, snapping jabs, and landing straight shots whenever Romanov tried to close the gap.
Romanov, age 39, looked to bring the fight inside and bank on his power, but he struggled to match Yunovidov’s speed, accuracy, and ring IQ. Through five rounds, the bout remained competitive, but the tide turned in the sixth. After landing a sharp combination to the body and head, Yunovidov visibly rocked Romanov. With his opponent hurt and unable to respond, the referee stepped in and called a halt to the bout, awarding Yunovidov the technical knockout victory.
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Gary Russell talks comeback |
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Former champions Gary Russell Jr. and Mark Magsayo, as well as super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso held virtual media availability on Wednesday to preview their respective bouts that will be part of a PBC on Prime Video lineup Saturday, July 19th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Their fights precede a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video headlined by Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao challenging WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios. Topping the pre-pay-per-view streaming presentation is the return of the former longtime WBC featherweight champion Russell Jr. as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a ten-round lightweight showdown. The undefeated Picasso will duel Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda in a ten-round affair, while the Filipino power-puncher Magsayo battles Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in a ten-round junior lightweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
These fights lead into the pay-per-view event that, besides the Pacquiao vs. Barrios main event, features three more bouts. WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and former champion Tim Tszyu look to eclipse 2024’s bloodiest fight in their championship rematch. Plus, Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meets his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro for a second time in a twelve-round junior welterweight duel, while former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a ten-round featherweight showdown. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
GARY RUSSELL JR.
“It’s great to be back. I’m excited to be able to get back out there. The last time I competed was over three years ago and I’m ready to do what I love doing best.
“Boxing is a lifestyle for me. In my last fight I got injured and still thought I did enough to get the win. I always wanted to come back to the sport. I lost my father and one of my younger brothers, so there was a lot that held me back. I also took time to train my younger brothers. I had to take the time to focus and regroup. Now I’m ready to come back to the sport.
“Life is about overcoming obstacles that come your way. You have to have mental resiliency. I’m glad that I’m strong-minded enough to stay tunnel-visioned.
“Now that I’m competing again, my younger brothers are helping to train me. It’s cool for the dynamics to switch like that. Even a king needs to be open-minded for constructive criticism. I’m using it all as fuel for progression.
“I’m getting the good fight nerves. It’s really more excitement the closer we get to the fight. I’m glad that I’ll be ready to go out there and display my skillset to the world.
“Mark Magsayo says he’s in for a rematch, but his promoters might not be glad he said that. Because it’s real over here.
“We have to decide who’s the best in the area, so that would make Gervonta Davis or Lamont Roach an interesting opponent. I want to figure out who the best is in our area of the country.”
DAVID PICASSO
“I’m just so excited to fight on a card like this. Manny Pacquiao is a boxer who I idolize and who has motivated me to chase my dreams. Fighting before him is a great honor. I know this fight is the most important in my career because I want to fight for the world championship in December.
“I’ve just been training all the time in between every fight. I’m only focused on the fight in front of me, even though I want to fight for the title in December. Kameda is a rangier fighter, so I’ll need to use my movement and still make it exciting.
“This is my second fight in Las Vegas and I know the Mexican fans there love my style. I’m so excited to be fighting in front of those fans.
“All of my life I’ve been preparing to become a world champion. Ever since I was seven-years-old. This fight is everything for me. This can change my life. I have to win this fight.
“Life is full of challenges, but you have to focus on what’s in front of you. July 19 is the most important thing in my life. Once that’s over, we can see what the next step will be. I have to stay mentally focused.
“Every fight is a championship fight for me. Everything is about boxing. When boxing is your life, it’s a true passion. It makes every fight a world title fight.”
MARK MAGSAYO
“When I knew that Pacquiao was coming back, I wanted to be on that undercard and my wish has come true. I’m so excited to get into the ring.
“It’s an honor to be on the undercard of a legend. I can’t wait to showcase my talent and I know that I’m going to be at my best.
“My losses at featherweight were largely because of the weight. I was too dehydrated. I had planned to already move up in weight.
“My coach and I are speaking the same language and he’s taught me a new style and new techniques. I’m very grateful to have Marvin Somodio in my corner.
“I think this will be a toe-to-toe fight. He’s a good fighter so I’m not underestimating him. I’m going to do my best to entertain the fans and if the knockout presents itself, I’ll take advantage.
“I’ll fight anybody in my division. Whichever champion is willing to step up to the plate. Whoever my promoter’s say is available, I’ll be ready for them.
“This is my stepping stone to the next level. I need to win this fight. The next fight I’m looking for is a world title fight.”
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Gary Russell talks comeback
Former champions Gary Russell Jr. and Mark Magsayo, as well as super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso held virtual media availability on Wednesday to preview their respective bouts that will be part of a PBC on Prime Video lineup Saturday, July 19th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Their fights precede a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video headlined by Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao challenging WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios. Topping the pre-pay-per-view streaming presentation is the return of the former longtime WBC featherweight champion Russell Jr. as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a ten-round lightweight showdown. The undefeated Picasso will duel Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda in a ten-round affair, while the Filipino power-puncher Magsayo battles Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in a ten-round junior lightweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
These fights lead into the pay-per-view event that, besides the Pacquiao vs. Barrios main event, features three more bouts. WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and former champion Tim Tszyu look to eclipse 2024’s bloodiest fight in their championship rematch. Plus, Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meets his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro for a second time in a twelve-round junior welterweight duel, while former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a ten-round featherweight showdown. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
GARY RUSSELL JR.
“It’s great to be back. I’m excited to be able to get back out there. The last time I competed was over three years ago and I’m ready to do what I love doing best.
“Boxing is a lifestyle for me. In my last fight I got injured and still thought I did enough to get the win. I always wanted to come back to the sport. I lost my father and one of my younger brothers, so there was a lot that held me back. I also took time to train my younger brothers. I had to take the time to focus and regroup. Now I’m ready to come back to the sport.
“Life is about overcoming obstacles that come your way. You have to have mental resiliency. I’m glad that I’m strong-minded enough to stay tunnel-visioned.
“Now that I’m competing again, my younger brothers are helping to train me. It’s cool for the dynamics to switch like that. Even a king needs to be open-minded for constructive criticism. I’m using it all as fuel for progression.
“I’m getting the good fight nerves. It’s really more excitement the closer we get to the fight. I’m glad that I’ll be ready to go out there and display my skillset to the world.
“Mark Magsayo says he’s in for a rematch, but his promoters might not be glad he said that. Because it’s real over here.
“We have to decide who’s the best in the area, so that would make Gervonta Davis or Lamont Roach an interesting opponent. I want to figure out who the best is in our area of the country.”
DAVID PICASSO
“I’m just so excited to fight on a card like this. Manny Pacquiao is a boxer who I idolize and who has motivated me to chase my dreams. Fighting before him is a great honor. I know this fight is the most important in my career because I want to fight for the world championship in December.
“I’ve just been training all the time in between every fight. I’m only focused on the fight in front of me, even though I want to fight for the title in December. Kameda is a rangier fighter, so I’ll need to use my movement and still make it exciting.
“This is my second fight in Las Vegas and I know the Mexican fans there love my style. I’m so excited to be fighting in front of those fans.
“All of my life I’ve been preparing to become a world champion. Ever since I was seven-years-old. This fight is everything for me. This can change my life. I have to win this fight.
“Life is full of challenges, but you have to focus on what’s in front of you. July 19 is the most important thing in my life. Once that’s over, we can see what the next step will be. I have to stay mentally focused.
“Every fight is a championship fight for me. Everything is about boxing. When boxing is your life, it’s a true passion. It makes every fight a world title fight.”
MARK MAGSAYO
“When I knew that Pacquiao was coming back, I wanted to be on that undercard and my wish has come true. I’m so excited to get into the ring.
“It’s an honor to be on the undercard of a legend. I can’t wait to showcase my talent and I know that I’m going to be at my best.
“My losses at featherweight were largely because of the weight. I was too dehydrated. I had planned to already move up in weight.
“My coach and I are speaking the same language and he’s taught me a new style and new techniques. I’m very grateful to have Marvin Somodio in my corner.
“I think this will be a toe-to-toe fight. He’s a good fighter so I’m not underestimating him. I’m going to do my best to entertain the fans and if the knockout presents itself, I’ll take advantage.
“I’ll fight anybody in my division. Whichever champion is willing to step up to the plate. Whoever my promoter’s say is available, I’ll be ready for them.
“This is my stepping stone to the next level. I need to win this fight. The next fight I’m looking for is a world title fight.”
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Ellis calls out Norman and Barrios |
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After delivering a third-round knockout of Josec Ruiz last month, welterweight contender “Speedy” Rashidi Ellis (27-1, 18 KOs) is putting the division’s champions on notice: The time for avoiding him is over. The 31 year-old Lynn, Massachusetts native, known for blinding speed plus power, is calling out reigning world champions Brian Norman Jr. (WBO), Mario Barrios (WBC), and Rolando “Rolly” Romero (WBA), daring them to step into the ring to determine who is the best welterweight in the world. [Norman and Barrios currently have fights scheduled. The IBF title is vacant with Jaron Ennis announcing he is moving up in weight].
“Brian Norman Jr. has no excuses now,” said Ellis. “‘Boots’ Ennis left the division. He ducked Boots and now he's ducking me. Don’t talk about me fighting Rohan Polanco while you're racing track stars—come and face the truth. Let’s show the world who the best is.”
This past year, Ellis and Norman seemed poised for a showdown as they traded barbs on social media. Each delivered highlight-reel knockouts within days of each other: Norman stopping Jin Sasaki in Japan on June 19th, and Ellis dropping Josec Ruiz three times for a third-round stoppage two days later in Massachusetts.
“Norman said he’d fight me, then he went quiet,” Ellis continued. “Now he announces a track meet with Devin Haney. Come on, man. Real fighters fight. What are we doing here?”
‘The Savage with a Smile’ believes the fans deserve real fights—not carefully curated title defenses. “If you're a real champion, step up and prove it,” Ellis declared. “Mario Barrios is fighting a 46-year-old Manny Pacquiao. Norman’s chasing clout fights. If you call yourself a world champion, then step up and prove it. Until you beat me, you can't call yourself the best.”
With three straight wins, Rashidi Ellis is on a mission to prove he's the best in the world and he won't be denied any longer.
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Ellis calls out Norman and Barrios
After delivering a third-round knockout of Josec Ruiz last month, welterweight contender “Speedy” Rashidi Ellis (27-1, 18 KOs) is putting the division’s champions on notice: The time for avoiding him is over. The 31 year-old Lynn, Massachusetts native, known for blinding speed plus power, is calling out reigning world champions Brian Norman Jr. (WBO), Mario Barrios (WBC), and Rolando “Rolly” Romero (WBA), daring them to step into the ring to determine who is the best welterweight in the world. [Norman and Barrios currently have fights scheduled. The IBF title is vacant with Jaron Ennis announcing he is moving up in weight].
“Brian Norman Jr. has no excuses now,” said Ellis. “‘Boots’ Ennis left the division. He ducked Boots and now he's ducking me. Don’t talk about me fighting Rohan Polanco while you're racing track stars—come and face the truth. Let’s show the world who the best is.”
This past year, Ellis and Norman seemed poised for a showdown as they traded barbs on social media. Each delivered highlight-reel knockouts within days of each other: Norman stopping Jin Sasaki in Japan on June 19th, and Ellis dropping Josec Ruiz three times for a third-round stoppage two days later in Massachusetts.
“Norman said he’d fight me, then he went quiet,” Ellis continued. “Now he announces a track meet with Devin Haney. Come on, man. Real fighters fight. What are we doing here?”
‘The Savage with a Smile’ believes the fans deserve real fights—not carefully curated title defenses. “If you're a real champion, step up and prove it,” Ellis declared. “Mario Barrios is fighting a 46-year-old Manny Pacquiao. Norman’s chasing clout fights. If you call yourself a world champion, then step up and prove it. Until you beat me, you can't call yourself the best.”
With three straight wins, Rashidi Ellis is on a mission to prove he's the best in the world and he won't be denied any longer.
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Morrell bout uncertain after apparent positive drug test for Khataev |
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Light heavyweight Imam Khataev (13-1 including IBA pro bouts and the World Series of Boxing) is scheduled to face David Morrell in New York City this weekend, but the fight's status in unclear based on the surfacing an apparent positive test for a banned substance that dates back more than a year ago. Eye of the Tiger Management issued the following statement on behalf of Khataev: "Imam Khataev was deeply surprised and shocked to learn of the result from the out-of-competition, doping test conducted by the ITA [International Testing Agency] in April 2024. He categorically denies ever knowingly or voluntarily ingesting any prohibited substance. Imam remains fully committed to proving that he is a clean athlete, as he has consistently demonstrated throughout his career. Since April 2024 alone, he has submitted four negative test results from VADA [Voluntary Anti-Doping Association], the RACJ, and Rusada [Russian Anti-Doping Association]. He is also a voluntary participant in the WBC Clean Boxing Program, reflecting his firm commitment to clean and fair sport. No further comments will be made on this matter." The statement was accompanied by screenshots showing negative test results for Khataev dated June 10 and June 30, 2025.
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Morrell bout uncertain after apparent positive drug test for Khataev
Light heavyweight Imam Khataev (13-1 including IBA pro bouts and the World Series of Boxing) is scheduled to face David Morrell in New York City this weekend, but the fight's status in unclear based on the surfacing an apparent positive test for a banned substance that dates back more than a year ago. Eye of the Tiger Management issued the following statement on behalf of Khataev: "Imam Khataev was deeply surprised and shocked to learn of the result from the out-of-competition, doping test conducted by the ITA [International Testing Agency] in April 2024. He categorically denies ever knowingly or voluntarily ingesting any prohibited substance. Imam remains fully committed to proving that he is a clean athlete, as he has consistently demonstrated throughout his career. Since April 2024 alone, he has submitted four negative test results from VADA [Voluntary Anti-Doping Association], the RACJ, and Rusada [Russian Anti-Doping Association]. He is also a voluntary participant in the WBC Clean Boxing Program, reflecting his firm commitment to clean and fair sport. No further comments will be made on this matter." The statement was accompanied by screenshots showing negative test results for Khataev dated June 10 and June 30, 2025.
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Report: Francisco Rodriguez tested positive after win over Galal Yafai |
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According to Matchroom Boxing, "[VADA,] the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association informed Matchroom, the World Boxing Council and the British Boxing Board of Control that Francisco Rodriguez has returned an adverse analytical finding as part of a post-fight night anti-doping test following his bout with Galal Yafai on June 21, 2025. The matter will be handled by the BBB of C and the WBC." On June 21st, Rodríguez (40-6-1) defeated Yafai by unanimous decision in Birmingham, England. With the win, Rodrgiguez became the WBC interim flyweight champion. Rodriguez was looking for the knockout from the first round on, but Yafai managed to avoid the stoppage. Both fighters received cuts over their left eyes due to the constant exchanges of punches and accidental head clashes. Rodríguez punished the British fighter with even greater intensity from the ninth round onwards, sending him to the canvas at the start of the twelfth. After the referee’s count, Yafai’s punishment continued until the final bell rang to end the fight. The judges’ scores were 119-108 (twice) and 118-109, all in favor of the Mexican fighter. Boxingtalk recognizes Yafai's pro record as 16-4 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Report: Francisco Rodriguez tested positive after win over Galal Yafai
According to Matchroom Boxing, "[VADA,] the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association informed Matchroom, the World Boxing Council and the British Boxing Board of Control that Francisco Rodriguez has returned an adverse analytical finding as part of a post-fight night anti-doping test following his bout with Galal Yafai on June 21, 2025. The matter will be handled by the BBB of C and the WBC." On June 21st, Rodríguez (40-6-1) defeated Yafai by unanimous decision in Birmingham, England. With the win, Rodrgiguez became the WBC interim flyweight champion. Rodriguez was looking for the knockout from the first round on, but Yafai managed to avoid the stoppage. Both fighters received cuts over their left eyes due to the constant exchanges of punches and accidental head clashes. Rodríguez punished the British fighter with even greater intensity from the ninth round onwards, sending him to the canvas at the start of the twelfth. After the referee’s count, Yafai’s punishment continued until the final bell rang to end the fight. The judges’ scores were 119-108 (twice) and 118-109, all in favor of the Mexican fighter. Boxingtalk recognizes Yafai's pro record as 16-4 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Jake Paul op ed, part 3: The hill they said they'd die on |
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Defending Jake Paul may seem controversial to some. He’s polarizing, unconventional, and unapologetically disruptive—qualities that often provoke strong reactions, especially in a sport steeped in tradition like boxing. But I’ve spent the better part of my life standing up for those who are misunderstood or dismissed simply because they challenge the status quo. My support for Jake Paul isn’t rooted in popularity—it’s rooted in principle. That’s why it’s worth examining the public stance of two prominent British commentators—Piers Morgan and Simon Jordan—both of whom have recently criticized Jake Paul. Yet, both have also shown, in other contexts, the very empathy and openness they now withhold from him.
Piers Morgan: From Boyle to Backlash
Piers Morgan famously became one of Susan Boyle’s fiercest defenders after the singer's unforgettable “Britain’s Got Talent” audition. Though initially skeptical, Morgan urged the public and media to stop mocking her appearance and give her the respect her voice deserved. He recognized a truth many missed: talent doesn’t always wear the clothes we expect. Morgan later stood his ground on the right to free expression during the fallout from his comments on Meghan Markle’s interview with Oprah. Despite receiving over 40,000 complaints and resigning from Good Morning Britain, Morgan refused to back down, stating: “freedom of speech is a hill I’m happy to die on.”
He defended his right to question powerful institutions and to challenge media narratives, even in the face of overwhelming criticism. Ironically, while he doubted Markle's story, his defense rested on the idea that even unpopular opinions deserve to be heard. That same principle—the willingness to defend those whose voices don’t fit neatly into the mainstream—should apply equally to Jake Paul.
Simon Jordan: A Voice for the Unconventional
Simon Jordan, a sharp and respected voice in sports media, has also publicly defended those on the receiving end of harsh or unfair criticism. He’s criticized the media’s portrayal of England football fans, calling it distorted and classist. Most recently, he defended Jude Bellingham, one of England’s brightest young stars, from critics questioning his passion and maturity. Jordan reminded audiences that individuality and emotional expression should not be weaponized against athletes who don't conform. He has also consistently taken aim at media narratives that mischaracterize people based on shallow optics—whether fans, athletes, or personalities who don’t follow the script.
So Why Not Jake?
If Morgan and Jordan can defend the likes of Susan Boyle, Meghan Markle, Jude Bellingham, or even their own right to challenge dominant narratives, why can't they take the same approach to Jake Paul? It should be clear by now that he is not just a novelty act. He has taken fights under sanctioned rules, invested heavily in training, and gone beyond the gimmick. He brings younger audiences to boxing, elevates underrepresented fighters (notably women), and reinvigorates public interest in the sport. His offense is that he doesn’t fit the mold. But isn’t that exactly the kind of figure Morgan and Jordan once claimed to stand up for?
This is the heart of the matter: Jake Paul is being dismissed not because of his record, but because of who he is perceived to be. That’s exactly the kind of prejudice these commentators have rightly challenged in the past. And it’s why their criticism now rings hollow.
Judge by Merit, Not Mold
The sport of boxing cannot grow if it clings only to the familiar. Disruptors, when they bring value and prove their merit, deserve recognition—not scorn. Jake Paul has delivered results, sparked global attention, and invested in the sport’s future. If Morgan and Jordan once stood for fairness, free thought, and the dignity of those misjudged—then they, too, should recognize that Jake Paul has earned more than just criticism. He’s earned a fair shot. So when Morgan says, “freedom of speech is a hill I’m happy to die on,” one has to ask—does that freedom extend only to voices we agree with? Or does it also apply to those like Jake Paul, who speak, fight, and succeed outside the approved script?
If Morgan truly believes in defending those who challenge orthodoxy… If Jordan truly believes in protecting passion, individuality, and media misrepresentation… Then Jake Paul deserves not their mockery, but their consistency. Because if freedom, fairness, and merit matter—then standing up for Jake Paul isn't just reasonable. It’s the very hill they once said they’d die on.
As I gaze upon this so-called hill, it appears strangely barren—no epitaphs, no convictions, just silence where principle once stood. So let me offer one for the missing tombstones: “Here lie Piers Morgan and Simon Jordan—fallen not for freedom, fairness, or merit, but for abandoning the very hill they once said they’d die on.”
Because in the end, words matter. And so does the courage to stand by them.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO TWO PRIOR ONES BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE.
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Jake Paul op ed, part 3: The hill they said they'd die on
Defending Jake Paul may seem controversial to some. He’s polarizing, unconventional, and unapologetically disruptive—qualities that often provoke strong reactions, especially in a sport steeped in tradition like boxing. But I’ve spent the better part of my life standing up for those who are misunderstood or dismissed simply because they challenge the status quo. My support for Jake Paul isn’t rooted in popularity—it’s rooted in principle. That’s why it’s worth examining the public stance of two prominent British commentators—Piers Morgan and Simon Jordan—both of whom have recently criticized Jake Paul. Yet, both have also shown, in other contexts, the very empathy and openness they now withhold from him.
Piers Morgan: From Boyle to Backlash
Piers Morgan famously became one of Susan Boyle’s fiercest defenders after the singer's unforgettable “Britain’s Got Talent” audition. Though initially skeptical, Morgan urged the public and media to stop mocking her appearance and give her the respect her voice deserved. He recognized a truth many missed: talent doesn’t always wear the clothes we expect. Morgan later stood his ground on the right to free expression during the fallout from his comments on Meghan Markle’s interview with Oprah. Despite receiving over 40,000 complaints and resigning from Good Morning Britain, Morgan refused to back down, stating: “freedom of speech is a hill I’m happy to die on.”
He defended his right to question powerful institutions and to challenge media narratives, even in the face of overwhelming criticism. Ironically, while he doubted Markle's story, his defense rested on the idea that even unpopular opinions deserve to be heard. That same principle—the willingness to defend those whose voices don’t fit neatly into the mainstream—should apply equally to Jake Paul.
Simon Jordan: A Voice for the Unconventional
Simon Jordan, a sharp and respected voice in sports media, has also publicly defended those on the receiving end of harsh or unfair criticism. He’s criticized the media’s portrayal of England football fans, calling it distorted and classist. Most recently, he defended Jude Bellingham, one of England’s brightest young stars, from critics questioning his passion and maturity. Jordan reminded audiences that individuality and emotional expression should not be weaponized against athletes who don't conform. He has also consistently taken aim at media narratives that mischaracterize people based on shallow optics—whether fans, athletes, or personalities who don’t follow the script.
So Why Not Jake?
If Morgan and Jordan can defend the likes of Susan Boyle, Meghan Markle, Jude Bellingham, or even their own right to challenge dominant narratives, why can't they take the same approach to Jake Paul? It should be clear by now that he is not just a novelty act. He has taken fights under sanctioned rules, invested heavily in training, and gone beyond the gimmick. He brings younger audiences to boxing, elevates underrepresented fighters (notably women), and reinvigorates public interest in the sport. His offense is that he doesn’t fit the mold. But isn’t that exactly the kind of figure Morgan and Jordan once claimed to stand up for?
This is the heart of the matter: Jake Paul is being dismissed not because of his record, but because of who he is perceived to be. That’s exactly the kind of prejudice these commentators have rightly challenged in the past. And it’s why their criticism now rings hollow.
Judge by Merit, Not Mold
The sport of boxing cannot grow if it clings only to the familiar. Disruptors, when they bring value and prove their merit, deserve recognition—not scorn. Jake Paul has delivered results, sparked global attention, and invested in the sport’s future. If Morgan and Jordan once stood for fairness, free thought, and the dignity of those misjudged—then they, too, should recognize that Jake Paul has earned more than just criticism. He’s earned a fair shot. So when Morgan says, “freedom of speech is a hill I’m happy to die on,” one has to ask—does that freedom extend only to voices we agree with? Or does it also apply to those like Jake Paul, who speak, fight, and succeed outside the approved script?
If Morgan truly believes in defending those who challenge orthodoxy… If Jordan truly believes in protecting passion, individuality, and media misrepresentation… Then Jake Paul deserves not their mockery, but their consistency. Because if freedom, fairness, and merit matter—then standing up for Jake Paul isn't just reasonable. It’s the very hill they once said they’d die on.
As I gaze upon this so-called hill, it appears strangely barren—no epitaphs, no convictions, just silence where principle once stood. So let me offer one for the missing tombstones: “Here lie Piers Morgan and Simon Jordan—fallen not for freedom, fairness, or merit, but for abandoning the very hill they once said they’d die on.”
Because in the end, words matter. And so does the courage to stand by them.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO TWO PRIOR ONES BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART TWO IS AVAILABLE HERE; PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE.
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Remembering the great Emanuel Steward |
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Boxing attorney John Hornewer, who quietly represented many great champions, including Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko, penned a short but meaningful tribute to the late Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward. Hornewer wrote: "July 7th... My maternal grandfather's birthday. [Also promoter] Tom Loeffler's birthday... Personally and professionally, apart from family, the birthday of Emanuel Steward is one that hits me hard when it rolls around. I miss this man. Wladimir would fight around this time every year, and every year we would celebrate the birthdays of Emanuel and Tom. He's gone, but not forgotten. In fact, I probably think of him every day. I became very close with Emanuel when he recruited Lennox Lewis after the 1988 Olympics. We became even closer once he got the call to train Lennox. While he had an encyclopedia of knowledge about boxers and boxing, I always believed Emanuel's greatest strength was his ability to reach people and ingratiate himself to them at their core. With me, he would start every conversation asking about my daughter (saying that she is right down the middle between me and my wife). He had that knack of making you feel special and that he was truly interested in you. We had so many talks about the mentality of different fighters - the similarities and differences between Lennox and Wladimir and Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko. Also about former Kronk fighters like Thomas Hearns and Mike McCallum, how he in a way was closer to Ray Leonard than to Tommy. We talked about [other boxers he traine, such as] Kermit Cintron, Andy Lee, Johnathan Banks and others. The stories rolled on and were always captivating... He is missed - on his birthday and every day."
Former world cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham added, "I met him at the Hall of Fame but then I really got to know him at Wlad's camp …… he saw me working with Wlad and was excited about the sparring and what we both brought out of each other ….. he was such a kind type guy yet you can tell the man was a man's man, a great dude. He’s missed."
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Remembering the great Emanuel Steward
Boxing attorney John Hornewer, who quietly represented many great champions, including Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko, penned a short but meaningful tribute to the late Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward. Hornewer wrote: "July 7th... My maternal grandfather's birthday. [Also promoter] Tom Loeffler's birthday... Personally and professionally, apart from family, the birthday of Emanuel Steward is one that hits me hard when it rolls around. I miss this man. Wladimir would fight around this time every year, and every year we would celebrate the birthdays of Emanuel and Tom. He's gone, but not forgotten. In fact, I probably think of him every day. I became very close with Emanuel when he recruited Lennox Lewis after the 1988 Olympics. We became even closer once he got the call to train Lennox. While he had an encyclopedia of knowledge about boxers and boxing, I always believed Emanuel's greatest strength was his ability to reach people and ingratiate himself to them at their core. With me, he would start every conversation asking about my daughter (saying that she is right down the middle between me and my wife). He had that knack of making you feel special and that he was truly interested in you. We had so many talks about the mentality of different fighters - the similarities and differences between Lennox and Wladimir and Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko. Also about former Kronk fighters like Thomas Hearns and Mike McCallum, how he in a way was closer to Ray Leonard than to Tommy. We talked about [other boxers he traine, such as] Kermit Cintron, Andy Lee, Johnathan Banks and others. The stories rolled on and were always captivating... He is missed - on his birthday and every day."
Former world cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham added, "I met him at the Hall of Fame but then I really got to know him at Wlad's camp …… he saw me working with Wlad and was excited about the sparring and what we both brought out of each other ….. he was such a kind type guy yet you can tell the man was a man's man, a great dude. He’s missed."
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Poetic tribute to Taylor vs. Serrano III |
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It will be a historic night at Madison Square Garden this Friday, July 11, when Most Valuable Promotions puts on an all-female card headlined by the trilogy bout between Katie Taylor and New York City’s Amanda Serrano. In honor of the women making history, I offer this poetic tribute.
The ladies comin' to the Garden
The skills have been sharpened
I'm a father of two daughters
So of course I'm all in
Historic night of fights
I will tell them I saw it
Entire card of women fighters
For years, this brand of gladiator
They tried to limit fighters
Appreciate the skills
Exquisite fighters
No they're not timid fighters
Gotta give Jake Paul his props
He's getting the ladies paid
Fight of the Night
On any card, that's often what the ladies make
So why can't a nice check the ladies take
MVP is payin' 'em instead of playin' 'em
Unlike others just baitin' them
You don't like the facts, don't be mad at me, I'm just statin' em.
Taylor and Serrano, now a trilogy
Based on past history
It's gonna be a Thrilla, G
I need a selfie there
In other words, a still o' me
To prove I was in the house, on a legendary night
For some legendary fights
Some immaculate left hooks and some legendary rights
Titles defended and titles changin’hands
Beyonce could call me up, I aint changin' plans.
Years ago, boxing made a fan
God made this man
And God gave me young women
So I guess fate was planned.
So it's my duty to return to the Garden
Oh, you're not going? I beg your pardon
Cause there aint no male champs?
You about to be sent away, I'll get you some mail stamps
For your male stance
You blind to the women, I call that your braille stance
Well I'll be there, admiring the thunder, lightning and hail hands.
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Poetic tribute to Taylor vs. Serrano III
It will be a historic night at Madison Square Garden this Friday, July 11, when Most Valuable Promotions puts on an all-female card headlined by the trilogy bout between Katie Taylor and New York City’s Amanda Serrano. In honor of the women making history, I offer this poetic tribute.
The ladies comin' to the Garden
The skills have been sharpened
I'm a father of two daughters
So of course I'm all in
Historic night of fights
I will tell them I saw it
Entire card of women fighters
For years, this brand of gladiator
They tried to limit fighters
Appreciate the skills
Exquisite fighters
No they're not timid fighters
Gotta give Jake Paul his props
He's getting the ladies paid
Fight of the Night
On any card, that's often what the ladies make
So why can't a nice check the ladies take
MVP is payin' 'em instead of playin' 'em
Unlike others just baitin' them
You don't like the facts, don't be mad at me, I'm just statin' em.
Taylor and Serrano, now a trilogy
Based on past history
It's gonna be a Thrilla, G
I need a selfie there
In other words, a still o' me
To prove I was in the house, on a legendary night
For some legendary fights
Some immaculate left hooks and some legendary rights
Titles defended and titles changin’hands
Beyonce could call me up, I aint changin' plans.
Years ago, boxing made a fan
God made this man
And God gave me young women
So I guess fate was planned.
So it's my duty to return to the Garden
Oh, you're not going? I beg your pardon
Cause there aint no male champs?
You about to be sent away, I'll get you some mail stamps
For your male stance
You blind to the women, I call that your braille stance
Well I'll be there, admiring the thunder, lightning and hail hands.
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Ebanie Bridges signs with MVP |
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Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced the signing of former IBF bantamweight champion Ebanie “The Blonde Bomber” Bridges (9-2, 4 KOs) to its growing roster. The addition of Bridges underscores MVP’s continued commitment to elevating women’s boxing and building the sport’s most dynamic, engaging fight cards. Bridges welcomed her first child in February 2025 and is targeting a return to the ring later this year as she looks to reclaim a world title.
Bridges is both ambitious inside and outside the ring. She holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics and Education, speaks three languages, is a qualified mechanic, a black belt in karate, and a savvy investor and businesswoman. Bridges has built a powerful personal brand while using her platform and resources to support other women in boxing. She lives a life rooted in gratitude and humility, often speaking out on key societal and cultural issues.
Originally a high school math teacher from New South Wales, Australia, Bridges left the classroom to chase her dream of becoming a world champion boxer in the UK—a dream she proudly realized by becoming the IBF bantamweight champion in 2022.
Now, a mother, Bridges, is on a new mission: to reclaim her world title and inspire women in sport to return stronger after childbirth and prove that nothing is impossible.
From working as a boxing ring girl to becoming a world champion, Bridges’ journey embodies perseverance and purpose. With her infectious personality and fearless mindset, she empowers people from all walks of life to believe in themselves and pursue their goals unapologetically.
“I’m very excited about signing with MVP. They’ve done amazing things for women’s boxing in such a short time,” said Bridges. “Proud to be joining a star-studded stable full of champions—current, former, and future world champions. I love and appreciate that MVP are truly investing in women’s boxing—for the right reasons. I believe that with MVP’s backing, promotion, and clever marketing, myself and women’s boxing will truly skyrocket.”
“Ebanie Bridges is a star in every sense of the word,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “She’s a world champion, a proven ticket seller, and a force of personality who brings new audiences into boxing. Now a devoted mother on a mission to reclaim her title, she continues to break boundaries both in and out of the ring. We’re thrilled to welcome another Aussie to the MVP family and can’t wait to help take her career to even greater heights.”
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Ebanie Bridges signs with MVP
Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced the signing of former IBF bantamweight champion Ebanie “The Blonde Bomber” Bridges (9-2, 4 KOs) to its growing roster. The addition of Bridges underscores MVP’s continued commitment to elevating women’s boxing and building the sport’s most dynamic, engaging fight cards. Bridges welcomed her first child in February 2025 and is targeting a return to the ring later this year as she looks to reclaim a world title.
Bridges is both ambitious inside and outside the ring. She holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics and Education, speaks three languages, is a qualified mechanic, a black belt in karate, and a savvy investor and businesswoman. Bridges has built a powerful personal brand while using her platform and resources to support other women in boxing. She lives a life rooted in gratitude and humility, often speaking out on key societal and cultural issues.
Originally a high school math teacher from New South Wales, Australia, Bridges left the classroom to chase her dream of becoming a world champion boxer in the UK—a dream she proudly realized by becoming the IBF bantamweight champion in 2022.
Now, a mother, Bridges, is on a new mission: to reclaim her world title and inspire women in sport to return stronger after childbirth and prove that nothing is impossible.
From working as a boxing ring girl to becoming a world champion, Bridges’ journey embodies perseverance and purpose. With her infectious personality and fearless mindset, she empowers people from all walks of life to believe in themselves and pursue their goals unapologetically.
“I’m very excited about signing with MVP. They’ve done amazing things for women’s boxing in such a short time,” said Bridges. “Proud to be joining a star-studded stable full of champions—current, former, and future world champions. I love and appreciate that MVP are truly investing in women’s boxing—for the right reasons. I believe that with MVP’s backing, promotion, and clever marketing, myself and women’s boxing will truly skyrocket.”
“Ebanie Bridges is a star in every sense of the word,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “She’s a world champion, a proven ticket seller, and a force of personality who brings new audiences into boxing. Now a devoted mother on a mission to reclaim her title, she continues to break boundaries both in and out of the ring. We’re thrilled to welcome another Aussie to the MVP family and can’t wait to help take her career to even greater heights.”
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IBA tries to woo Fury to fight in Moscow |
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IBA President Umar Kremlev welcomed heavyweight icon Tyson Fury to Istanbul, Türkiye, for last week's boxing event this week. Fury — who has yet to return to the ring following his split-decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024 — was joined by manager Spencer Brown, with the pair heaping praise on the IBA event. ‘It’s a big event. When you see all of these fighters and special people, it attracts a lot of eyes to boxing — and boxing brings people together,’ said Fury.
‘With everything going on between Russia and Ukraine, these things can bring people together very quickly, through boxing,’ added Brown.
‘Boxing is for peace. We are for peace,’ Kremlev replied. 'The press conference featured over 180 representatives of international media — and it is all done to popularize boxing. We want IBA to be the Home of Boxing.’
With the boxing community eagerly anticipating Fury’s next move, Kremlev took the opportunity to make an audacious bid to have the former lineal kingpin see out his career on an IBA show; with a bout for the IBA heavyweight title also a possibility. ‘We would love to make a professional fight for you [Fury] — a farewell bout, as the king of boxing. One final, beautiful fight to say farewell.'
Kremlev also extended an invitation for Fury and his family to visit Moscow as his guests in the future. ‘We would love to bring Tyson to Moscow,’ said Kremlev excitedly. ‘Just give me the date, and you can bring your team and family with you. We will send a jet to pick you up and bring you. We do not have bears walking around [in Moscow] — despite people’s misconceptions — so please bring your family and your team.’
‘We’d love to go to Moscow. Tyson has always wanted to go,’ said Brown.
‘I was supposed to go, four years ago,’ added Fury. ‘I was supposed to go to the Red Square with a fur coat in the winter with the snow, before going to party in New Zealand. ‘I’m filming a reality show with Netflix, [so] it would be very good to see Russia on the TV worldwide — 500 million, a billion people — very good for relations… so you give us a proposal, you speak to Spencer!’
‘The story is not ended yet,’ Brown followed. 'So, you [Umar Kremlev] are coming in at the end of the story, but it hasn’t ended, and we’d love to have you on board.’
‘So, I have joined you on time!’ Kremlev responded, bringing laughter from those in attendance. ‘I have big respect for those who invest their soul and their talent into their sport — and I believe that in the modern world, in the current times, out of all heavyweight categories, Tyson is most talented.’
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IBA tries to woo Fury to fight in Moscow
IBA President Umar Kremlev welcomed heavyweight icon Tyson Fury to Istanbul, Türkiye, for last week's boxing event this week. Fury — who has yet to return to the ring following his split-decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024 — was joined by manager Spencer Brown, with the pair heaping praise on the IBA event. ‘It’s a big event. When you see all of these fighters and special people, it attracts a lot of eyes to boxing — and boxing brings people together,’ said Fury.
‘With everything going on between Russia and Ukraine, these things can bring people together very quickly, through boxing,’ added Brown.
‘Boxing is for peace. We are for peace,’ Kremlev replied. 'The press conference featured over 180 representatives of international media — and it is all done to popularize boxing. We want IBA to be the Home of Boxing.’
With the boxing community eagerly anticipating Fury’s next move, Kremlev took the opportunity to make an audacious bid to have the former lineal kingpin see out his career on an IBA show; with a bout for the IBA heavyweight title also a possibility. ‘We would love to make a professional fight for you [Fury] — a farewell bout, as the king of boxing. One final, beautiful fight to say farewell.'
Kremlev also extended an invitation for Fury and his family to visit Moscow as his guests in the future. ‘We would love to bring Tyson to Moscow,’ said Kremlev excitedly. ‘Just give me the date, and you can bring your team and family with you. We will send a jet to pick you up and bring you. We do not have bears walking around [in Moscow] — despite people’s misconceptions — so please bring your family and your team.’
‘We’d love to go to Moscow. Tyson has always wanted to go,’ said Brown.
‘I was supposed to go, four years ago,’ added Fury. ‘I was supposed to go to the Red Square with a fur coat in the winter with the snow, before going to party in New Zealand. ‘I’m filming a reality show with Netflix, [so] it would be very good to see Russia on the TV worldwide — 500 million, a billion people — very good for relations… so you give us a proposal, you speak to Spencer!’
‘The story is not ended yet,’ Brown followed. 'So, you [Umar Kremlev] are coming in at the end of the story, but it hasn’t ended, and we’d love to have you on board.’
‘So, I have joined you on time!’ Kremlev responded, bringing laughter from those in attendance. ‘I have big respect for those who invest their soul and their talent into their sport — and I believe that in the modern world, in the current times, out of all heavyweight categories, Tyson is most talented.’
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Jalapeno Hernandez to headline vs. Jayvon Garnett next month |
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On Saturday, August 2nd at the Fairgrounds Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, Christy Martin Promotions will present “Mayhem in Music City 2” featuring Victor “Jalapeno” Hernandez (14-0, 12 KOs) taking on Jayvon “El Elegido” Garnett (10-2, 5 KOs) ina ten-round featherweight headliner. Also scheduled in the co-featured bout will be super middleweight Djibril “The Messenger” Diakite (10-0, 8 KOs) of Queens, New York facing trialhorse Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (22-24-2, 9 KOs) over eight rounds. Tickets for the live event are available from Eventbrite. The event will be broadcast live on Millions.co pay-per-view.
After just thirty amateur fights, Hernandez turned professional in mid-2021. He registered a fourth-round knockout over Jose Edgardo Garcia in his ninth fight in February of last year. Based in El Paso, TX and Kenner, Louisiana, Hernandez is blessed with the natural punching power of a much larger fighter and utilizes a classic Mexican style because he wants his fans to enjoy watching him as much as he enjoys being in the ring. Hernandez works with renowned trainer Craig Duncan, and is signed to Christy Martin Promotions.
Garnett hails from the boxing talent-laden city of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he first put on a pair of boxing gloves at the age of six. He had a stellar amateur career fighting over 110 times, developing his style and sharpening his skills in Ohio’s very competitive amateur boxing scene. The 30-year-old Garnett combines exceptional quickness and accuracy with a propensity for power. He got a notable win via unanimous decision over Jose Argel in June 2021.
A lanky 6′ tall puncher with an aggressive style, Diakite (pronounced "Dee a key tay") had just one amateur fight before turning pro in July 2021. Still a work in progress with tremendous potential, the 25-year old has won his last four fights by knockout. He was last seen in the ring in May of this year, where he scored a second-round stoppage of Manny Woods in Nashville. A gifted artist and social activist in his spare time, Diakite attended Brooklyn College and hopes to one day become a high school science teacher.
A Los Angeles native, Pendarvis turned professional in November of 2004. Calling himself “Best Underdog in Boxing” Pendarvis has made a career out of taking on any and all comers, including several world champions and top contenders all the way from 141 to 176 lbs., and scored several upset victories along the way. Pendarvis was world-ranked from 2010 to 2013 at 140 pounds. He was also one of the sparring partners of Antonio Margarito for his 2010 fight with Manny Pacquiao.
Additonal undercard match-ups will be announced soon.
“This is going to be a fantastic show,” said promoter Christy Martin. “Hernandez vs. Garnett will be a war between two hungry prospects. Djibril Diakite is in the toughest test of his young career against one of boxing’s best spoilers in Mookie Pendarvis. We’ve got several local and international prospects on the undercard. I’m excited to be bringing this event to Nashville live and to the viewers on Millions.co pay-per-view."
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Jalapeno Hernandez to headline vs. Jayvon Garnett next month
On Saturday, August 2nd at the Fairgrounds Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, Christy Martin Promotions will present “Mayhem in Music City 2” featuring Victor “Jalapeno” Hernandez (14-0, 12 KOs) taking on Jayvon “El Elegido” Garnett (10-2, 5 KOs) ina ten-round featherweight headliner. Also scheduled in the co-featured bout will be super middleweight Djibril “The Messenger” Diakite (10-0, 8 KOs) of Queens, New York facing trialhorse Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (22-24-2, 9 KOs) over eight rounds. Tickets for the live event are available from Eventbrite. The event will be broadcast live on Millions.co pay-per-view.
After just thirty amateur fights, Hernandez turned professional in mid-2021. He registered a fourth-round knockout over Jose Edgardo Garcia in his ninth fight in February of last year. Based in El Paso, TX and Kenner, Louisiana, Hernandez is blessed with the natural punching power of a much larger fighter and utilizes a classic Mexican style because he wants his fans to enjoy watching him as much as he enjoys being in the ring. Hernandez works with renowned trainer Craig Duncan, and is signed to Christy Martin Promotions.
Garnett hails from the boxing talent-laden city of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he first put on a pair of boxing gloves at the age of six. He had a stellar amateur career fighting over 110 times, developing his style and sharpening his skills in Ohio’s very competitive amateur boxing scene. The 30-year-old Garnett combines exceptional quickness and accuracy with a propensity for power. He got a notable win via unanimous decision over Jose Argel in June 2021.
A lanky 6′ tall puncher with an aggressive style, Diakite (pronounced "Dee a key tay") had just one amateur fight before turning pro in July 2021. Still a work in progress with tremendous potential, the 25-year old has won his last four fights by knockout. He was last seen in the ring in May of this year, where he scored a second-round stoppage of Manny Woods in Nashville. A gifted artist and social activist in his spare time, Diakite attended Brooklyn College and hopes to one day become a high school science teacher.
A Los Angeles native, Pendarvis turned professional in November of 2004. Calling himself “Best Underdog in Boxing” Pendarvis has made a career out of taking on any and all comers, including several world champions and top contenders all the way from 141 to 176 lbs., and scored several upset victories along the way. Pendarvis was world-ranked from 2010 to 2013 at 140 pounds. He was also one of the sparring partners of Antonio Margarito for his 2010 fight with Manny Pacquiao.
Additonal undercard match-ups will be announced soon.
“This is going to be a fantastic show,” said promoter Christy Martin. “Hernandez vs. Garnett will be a war between two hungry prospects. Djibril Diakite is in the toughest test of his young career against one of boxing’s best spoilers in Mookie Pendarvis. We’ve got several local and international prospects on the undercard. I’m excited to be bringing this event to Nashville live and to the viewers on Millions.co pay-per-view."
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Arum confirms Norman will fight Haney |
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Promoter Bob Arum tweeted, "Congratulations to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for putting together a sensational card on November 22nd in Riyadh. WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. [pictured] and lightweight sensation Abdullah Mason are tremendous young talents who will rise to the occasion. Arum's tweet was accompanied by an image stating Norman would be fighting undefeated two-division champion Devin Haney. If Haney can defeat Norman and Haney would be the underdog), Haney would add Norman's WBO 147-pound title to his resume.
Also tipped for the card is a 115-pound unification match between Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez and Fernando Martinez. However, Rodriguez has a unification fight scheduled for next week in Texas, when he will attempt to Phumelela Cafu's WBO title to the WBC version Rodriguez currently owns. Martinez is the WBA champion but also previously held the IBF title before giving it up to do a rematch with Kazuto Ioak. Both Rodriguez and Martinez are undefeated, so if all goes as planned, theNovember 22nd fight would be for true super flyweight supremacy.
The image also showed Mason fighting Sam Noakes, a fight Alalshikh previously announced on social media. That fight is expected to be for the WBO lightweight title which was recently lost on the scales by an overweight Keyshwan Davis.
Alalshikh appeared to confirm the news, responding back to Arum, "Thank you, my big brother. You are a living legend in the boxing industry!"
The previously revealed main event for November 22nd will see David Benavidez defending his WBC light heavyweight world title against Anthony Yarde.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 30, 2025: Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, informally announced on social media that WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman will be defending his title vs. Devin Haney (pictured) in a battle on undefeated boxers, with Haney attempting to become a three-division champion. Alalshikh tweeted, "Thank you to [promoter] Bob Arum and [his company] Top Rank for working with us and Riyadh Season to deliver their [WBO welterweight] champion, Brian Norman, in a title defense vs. Devin Haney in November. More to come with Top Rank."
Haney, a former two-division champion, won his last fight vs. Jose Carlos Ramirez but fought very reluctantly and has received criticism for his safety-first style in that bout. Haney's strategy was very understandable in light his prior fight, in which he took a lot of punishment from an illegally enhanced Ryan Garcia. That fight was declared a no contest after Garcia tested positive for perfomrance enhancing substances. While the loss came off Haney's record, the punishment to his body did not. Haney's record as a pro is 32-0 with the one no contest vs. Garcia.
In his last fight, Norman defended his title with a fifth-round knockout of hometown challenger Jin Sasaki at Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This marked the second successful defense for the 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), an Atlanta native and boxing's youngest male world champion. Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) saw his nine-fight unbeaten streak end at the hands of Norman, who unleashed a powerful left hook that left him on the canvas for several minutes. “It was a wonderful fight. I had a great opponent in front of me. You all seen he got heart. That boy is not a slouch at all. I give nothing but props to him. I love ya’ll over here in Japan. I’d gladly come back," Norman said. “I knew whatever he was bringing to the table, I’m a champion for a reason. As you saw, I showed that.”
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Arum confirms Norman will fight Haney
Promoter Bob Arum tweeted, "Congratulations to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for putting together a sensational card on November 22nd in Riyadh. WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. [pictured] and lightweight sensation Abdullah Mason are tremendous young talents who will rise to the occasion. Arum's tweet was accompanied by an image stating Norman would be fighting undefeated two-division champion Devin Haney. If Haney can defeat Norman and Haney would be the underdog), Haney would add Norman's WBO 147-pound title to his resume.
Also tipped for the card is a 115-pound unification match between Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez and Fernando Martinez. However, Rodriguez has a unification fight scheduled for next week in Texas, when he will attempt to Phumelela Cafu's WBO title to the WBC version Rodriguez currently owns. Martinez is the WBA champion but also previously held the IBF title before giving it up to do a rematch with Kazuto Ioak. Both Rodriguez and Martinez are undefeated, so if all goes as planned, theNovember 22nd fight would be for true super flyweight supremacy.
The image also showed Mason fighting Sam Noakes, a fight Alalshikh previously announced on social media. That fight is expected to be for the WBO lightweight title which was recently lost on the scales by an overweight Keyshwan Davis.
Alalshikh appeared to confirm the news, responding back to Arum, "Thank you, my big brother. You are a living legend in the boxing industry!"
The previously revealed main event for November 22nd will see David Benavidez defending his WBC light heavyweight world title against Anthony Yarde.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 30, 2025: Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, informally announced on social media that WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman will be defending his title vs. Devin Haney (pictured) in a battle on undefeated boxers, with Haney attempting to become a three-division champion. Alalshikh tweeted, "Thank you to [promoter] Bob Arum and [his company] Top Rank for working with us and Riyadh Season to deliver their [WBO welterweight] champion, Brian Norman, in a title defense vs. Devin Haney in November. More to come with Top Rank."
Haney, a former two-division champion, won his last fight vs. Jose Carlos Ramirez but fought very reluctantly and has received criticism for his safety-first style in that bout. Haney's strategy was very understandable in light his prior fight, in which he took a lot of punishment from an illegally enhanced Ryan Garcia. That fight was declared a no contest after Garcia tested positive for perfomrance enhancing substances. While the loss came off Haney's record, the punishment to his body did not. Haney's record as a pro is 32-0 with the one no contest vs. Garcia.
In his last fight, Norman defended his title with a fifth-round knockout of hometown challenger Jin Sasaki at Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This marked the second successful defense for the 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), an Atlanta native and boxing's youngest male world champion. Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) saw his nine-fight unbeaten streak end at the hands of Norman, who unleashed a powerful left hook that left him on the canvas for several minutes. “It was a wonderful fight. I had a great opponent in front of me. You all seen he got heart. That boy is not a slouch at all. I give nothing but props to him. I love ya’ll over here in Japan. I’d gladly come back," Norman said. “I knew whatever he was bringing to the table, I’m a champion for a reason. As you saw, I showed that.”
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Boxingtalk op-ed: Jake Paul, Turki Alalshikh and the History of Defiance |
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When Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat in 1955, she didn’t just resist a bus driver—she disrupted the power structure. Her defiance echoed through every system that told her to sit down, be quiet, and wait her turn. Today, in boxing, Jake Paul is having his own Rosa Parks moment. That may sound like an outrageous comparison, but the pattern is the same. Whenever someone threatens a corrupt system—from the back of the bus or the undercard of a boxing show—the system doesn’t argue. It blacklists.
According to multiple sources, Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority and boxing’s most powerful political figure, has been threatening sanctioning bodies—telling them that if they support Jake Paul, they will no longer work with him. If those sources are accurate, that would be coercion, a modern-day form of restraint of trade. In America, we have antitrust laws for this. Our federal courts have long held that monopolistic behavior—collusion, backdoor threats, or coordinated blackballing—violates the basic principles of free enterprise. That applies to tech, to sports, and yes—even to boxing.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman is on record with the BBC as saying Paul could be ranked if he were to defeat Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul held up his end of the bargain, so we will watch the WBC rankings closely to see if Paul gets ranked or perhaps pressure is being exerted against the WBC as well.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO LAST WEEK'S STORY BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE.
In fact, the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act was passed precisely to combat this kind of abuse. The law prohibits coercion by promoters and protects boxers from being frozen out or retaliated against for refusing to play along. It reinforces that no promoter or power broker should be able to blacklist a fighter simply because they won’t conform. The Act’s spirit demands that boxing remain a fair playing field—not a private club.
This isn’t without precedent. In the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case Klor’s, Inc. v. Broadway-Hale Stores (1959), a large retail chain coerced multiple suppliers into boycotting a smaller competitor. The Court ruled this kind of coordinated refusal to deal—blacklisting through influence and pressure— was a per se violation of U.S. antitrust law. The parallels to boxing are clear: when someone uses their market power to freeze out competition not based on merit, but control, the law—and history—stands with the underdog.
When sanctioning bodies are pressured to exclude someone for political or personal reasons, that isn’t just unethical—it’s anti-competitive. And if Jake Paul is being denied an opportunity due to backchannel threats or coercion, the boxing world should remember: the Ali Act was written for this moment. Jake Paul didn’t come from a boxing dynasty. He wasn’t groomed by promoters. Like Lamar Hunt, the man who launched the AFL when the NFL told him to go away, Jake built his own league. Like Howard Schultz, who created Starbucks from nothing, Jake built his own platform, audience, and economics. His greatest sin? That he succeeded.
Like Al Davis, the renegade owner of the Oakland Raiders, Jake Paul refuses to conform. Davis famously sued the NFL, relocated his team against the league’s wishes, and said: “The greatness of the Raiders is in its future.” That same future belongs to fighters like Amanda Serrano—whose purses, platforms, and respect were transformed by Jake’s disruption. The truth is this: systems don’t collapse from within. They collapse when someone from the outside kicks the door open. That’s what Jake Paul did—and that’s why powerful people want him gone.
Even the Bible recognizes this pattern. In the Book of Daniel, a king demanded everyone bow before a golden idol. But three men—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—refused. They were thrown into a fiery furnace. But they didn’t burn. They walked out untouched. Why? Because they stood on conviction—not compliance. The Qur’an also echoes this theme. In Surah Al-Qasas, it tells the story of Qarun (Korah)—a man of immense wealth from the time of Moses. Qarun was arrogant, believing his riches were the result of his own knowledge and merit. His people warned him not to use his wealth to cause corruption or oppress others, but he refused. The Qur’an says: “So We caused the earth to swallow him and his home. Then he had no group to help him besides Allah, nor was he of those who could defend themselves.” (Qur’an 28:81). The context is vital: Qarun symbolizes those who believe wealth is a shield from accountability. But when wealth is used to dominate rather than uplift, it becomes a curse, not a blessing. Power without humility invites collapse.
Jake Paul isn’t pretending to be righteous. But like those men, he refuses to bow to someone else's gold.
To be fair, Turki Alalshikh has accomplished what few in boxing ever could. He’s brought together fighters, promoters, and global attention with a speed and scale that’s reshaping the boxing industry. He has elevated the sport—bringing untold wealth to fighters, making long-overdue super fights happen, and giving the public events worth watching. But true leadership isn’t about controlling outcomes—it’s about empowering all voices, even those who challenge convention. Turki has the power not just to shape boxing’s future, but to ensure it remains open to disruptors like Jake Paul. That is the mark of legacy.
Let’s talk about gold for a moment. Not long ago, Saudi Arabia was a vast desert where nomadic tribes survived without oil, electricity, or global wealth. Then, in 1938, an American company—Standard Oil of California—struck oil in Dammam. That discovery changed everything. From that moment, power flowed not from lineage or monarchy, but from access to markets, capital, and global systems. Ironically, the very nation that rose from Western energy investment is now trying to silence a Westerner who threatens its control over a sport. But history is full of reminders that wealth without principle always collapses. Kings fall. Titans of industry go broke. There are countless stories of men who came from nothing, rose to power, and lost it all chasing more. Greed clouds judgment. Power fears challenge. And those who surround themselves with yes-men often stop seeing straight.
Or as Lord Acton once said: "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
Jake Paul didn’t inherit a billion-dollar trust or an oil kingdom. He built his influence fight by fight, controversy by controversy, bet by bet. And now that he’s on the doorstep of real legitimacy, Alalshikh is allegedly using his position to block it. But if he is so confident Jake doesn’t belong, there’s a simple solution: put one of your champions in the ring with him.
Jake Paul has said he’s willing to fight Badou Jack— who is the reigning WBC cruiserweight champion, a favorite of Alalsheikh's promotional orbit, and a proven force. If this is really about merit, let the ring decide. If Jake Paul doesn’t belong, the fight will prove it. But if he wins, or even survives, then the entire narrative against him collapses.
Fight or flee, Turki. Put your money where your mouth is. You don’t get to call someone unworthy while hiding behind sanctioning bodies and whispered threats. If Jake Paul is a joke, then book the fight and let him get exposed. If he’s not… then maybe the one who needs to be humbled isn’t the fighter—but the kingmaker. The blacklist ends in two ways: with a signature on a fight contract, or with silence that tells the world who really blinked.
Jake Paul is being blacklisted not because he’s unworthy, but because he’s un-owned.
Let the record show: when boxing tried to silence Jake Paul, it wasn’t just protecting tradition. It was protecting control. And in the end, history always sides with the one who refused to bow.
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Boxingtalk op-ed: Jake Paul, Turki Alalshikh and the History of Defiance
When Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat in 1955, she didn’t just resist a bus driver—she disrupted the power structure. Her defiance echoed through every system that told her to sit down, be quiet, and wait her turn. Today, in boxing, Jake Paul is having his own Rosa Parks moment. That may sound like an outrageous comparison, but the pattern is the same. Whenever someone threatens a corrupt system—from the back of the bus or the undercard of a boxing show—the system doesn’t argue. It blacklists.
According to multiple sources, Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority and boxing’s most powerful political figure, has been threatening sanctioning bodies—telling them that if they support Jake Paul, they will no longer work with him. If those sources are accurate, that would be coercion, a modern-day form of restraint of trade. In America, we have antitrust laws for this. Our federal courts have long held that monopolistic behavior—collusion, backdoor threats, or coordinated blackballing—violates the basic principles of free enterprise. That applies to tech, to sports, and yes—even to boxing.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman is on record with the BBC as saying Paul could be ranked if he were to defeat Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul held up his end of the bargain, so we will watch the WBC rankings closely to see if Paul gets ranked or perhaps pressure is being exerted against the WBC as well.
THIS OP-ED PIECE IS A FOLLOW-UP TO LAST WEEK'S STORY BY THE SAME AUTHOR. PART ONE IS AVAILABLE HERE.
In fact, the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act was passed precisely to combat this kind of abuse. The law prohibits coercion by promoters and protects boxers from being frozen out or retaliated against for refusing to play along. It reinforces that no promoter or power broker should be able to blacklist a fighter simply because they won’t conform. The Act’s spirit demands that boxing remain a fair playing field—not a private club.
This isn’t without precedent. In the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case Klor’s, Inc. v. Broadway-Hale Stores (1959), a large retail chain coerced multiple suppliers into boycotting a smaller competitor. The Court ruled this kind of coordinated refusal to deal—blacklisting through influence and pressure— was a per se violation of U.S. antitrust law. The parallels to boxing are clear: when someone uses their market power to freeze out competition not based on merit, but control, the law—and history—stands with the underdog.
When sanctioning bodies are pressured to exclude someone for political or personal reasons, that isn’t just unethical—it’s anti-competitive. And if Jake Paul is being denied an opportunity due to backchannel threats or coercion, the boxing world should remember: the Ali Act was written for this moment. Jake Paul didn’t come from a boxing dynasty. He wasn’t groomed by promoters. Like Lamar Hunt, the man who launched the AFL when the NFL told him to go away, Jake built his own league. Like Howard Schultz, who created Starbucks from nothing, Jake built his own platform, audience, and economics. His greatest sin? That he succeeded.
Like Al Davis, the renegade owner of the Oakland Raiders, Jake Paul refuses to conform. Davis famously sued the NFL, relocated his team against the league’s wishes, and said: “The greatness of the Raiders is in its future.” That same future belongs to fighters like Amanda Serrano—whose purses, platforms, and respect were transformed by Jake’s disruption. The truth is this: systems don’t collapse from within. They collapse when someone from the outside kicks the door open. That’s what Jake Paul did—and that’s why powerful people want him gone.
Even the Bible recognizes this pattern. In the Book of Daniel, a king demanded everyone bow before a golden idol. But three men—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—refused. They were thrown into a fiery furnace. But they didn’t burn. They walked out untouched. Why? Because they stood on conviction—not compliance. The Qur’an also echoes this theme. In Surah Al-Qasas, it tells the story of Qarun (Korah)—a man of immense wealth from the time of Moses. Qarun was arrogant, believing his riches were the result of his own knowledge and merit. His people warned him not to use his wealth to cause corruption or oppress others, but he refused. The Qur’an says: “So We caused the earth to swallow him and his home. Then he had no group to help him besides Allah, nor was he of those who could defend themselves.” (Qur’an 28:81). The context is vital: Qarun symbolizes those who believe wealth is a shield from accountability. But when wealth is used to dominate rather than uplift, it becomes a curse, not a blessing. Power without humility invites collapse.
Jake Paul isn’t pretending to be righteous. But like those men, he refuses to bow to someone else's gold.
To be fair, Turki Alalshikh has accomplished what few in boxing ever could. He’s brought together fighters, promoters, and global attention with a speed and scale that’s reshaping the boxing industry. He has elevated the sport—bringing untold wealth to fighters, making long-overdue super fights happen, and giving the public events worth watching. But true leadership isn’t about controlling outcomes—it’s about empowering all voices, even those who challenge convention. Turki has the power not just to shape boxing’s future, but to ensure it remains open to disruptors like Jake Paul. That is the mark of legacy.
Let’s talk about gold for a moment. Not long ago, Saudi Arabia was a vast desert where nomadic tribes survived without oil, electricity, or global wealth. Then, in 1938, an American company—Standard Oil of California—struck oil in Dammam. That discovery changed everything. From that moment, power flowed not from lineage or monarchy, but from access to markets, capital, and global systems. Ironically, the very nation that rose from Western energy investment is now trying to silence a Westerner who threatens its control over a sport. But history is full of reminders that wealth without principle always collapses. Kings fall. Titans of industry go broke. There are countless stories of men who came from nothing, rose to power, and lost it all chasing more. Greed clouds judgment. Power fears challenge. And those who surround themselves with yes-men often stop seeing straight.
Or as Lord Acton once said: "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
Jake Paul didn’t inherit a billion-dollar trust or an oil kingdom. He built his influence fight by fight, controversy by controversy, bet by bet. And now that he’s on the doorstep of real legitimacy, Alalshikh is allegedly using his position to block it. But if he is so confident Jake doesn’t belong, there’s a simple solution: put one of your champions in the ring with him.
Jake Paul has said he’s willing to fight Badou Jack— who is the reigning WBC cruiserweight champion, a favorite of Alalsheikh's promotional orbit, and a proven force. If this is really about merit, let the ring decide. If Jake Paul doesn’t belong, the fight will prove it. But if he wins, or even survives, then the entire narrative against him collapses.
Fight or flee, Turki. Put your money where your mouth is. You don’t get to call someone unworthy while hiding behind sanctioning bodies and whispered threats. If Jake Paul is a joke, then book the fight and let him get exposed. If he’s not… then maybe the one who needs to be humbled isn’t the fighter—but the kingmaker. The blacklist ends in two ways: with a signature on a fight contract, or with silence that tells the world who really blinked.
Jake Paul is being blacklisted not because he’s unworthy, but because he’s un-owned.
Let the record show: when boxing tried to silence Jake Paul, it wasn’t just protecting tradition. It was protecting control. And in the end, history always sides with the one who refused to bow.
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Catterall on technical decision: "I won but not how I wanted" |
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Jack Catterall W7 Harlem Eubank... In an all-British clash, southpaw Jack Catterall made a wining but damaging move up to welterweight with a technical decision victory over Harlem Eubank at the AO Arena in Manchester. The bout was halted in the seventh round following a clash of heads that left both fighters bloodied and prompted referee Bob Williams to consult the ringside officials. The contest went to the scorecards, where Catterall emerged as the winner. The fight marked Catterall’s (31-1, 13 KOs) debut at welterweight, just months after a hard-fought loss to Arnold Barboza Jr. at 140 pounds. Eubank (21-1, 9 KOs) struggled to impose his unorthodox style against the more seasoned former British champion.
In response to criticism that his performance wasn't aggressive enough, Caterall tweeted: "Listen, to be a boxer you have to accept any criticism. I won last night but not how I wanted to win so I’ll let the cut heal and I’ll be back in the gym to keep improving. But make no mistake I will fight absolutely anyone."
From the opening bell, Eubank tried to disrupt Catterall’s rhythm with feints and footwork, but the Chorley native calmly countered with sharp, accurate shots that gradually took control of the fight. Eubank focused on body work early, but repeatedly left himself open to Catterall’s crisp left hand, which found its target throughout the contest. Both fighters hit the canvas due to tangles in the third and sixth rounds before the accidental headbutt caused serious cuts—one over Catterall’s right eyebrow and another above Eubank’s left.
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Catterall on technical decision: "I won but not how I wanted"
Jack Catterall W7 Harlem Eubank... In an all-British clash, southpaw Jack Catterall made a wining but damaging move up to welterweight with a technical decision victory over Harlem Eubank at the AO Arena in Manchester. The bout was halted in the seventh round following a clash of heads that left both fighters bloodied and prompted referee Bob Williams to consult the ringside officials. The contest went to the scorecards, where Catterall emerged as the winner. The fight marked Catterall’s (31-1, 13 KOs) debut at welterweight, just months after a hard-fought loss to Arnold Barboza Jr. at 140 pounds. Eubank (21-1, 9 KOs) struggled to impose his unorthodox style against the more seasoned former British champion.
In response to criticism that his performance wasn't aggressive enough, Caterall tweeted: "Listen, to be a boxer you have to accept any criticism. I won last night but not how I wanted to win so I’ll let the cut heal and I’ll be back in the gym to keep improving. But make no mistake I will fight absolutely anyone."
From the opening bell, Eubank tried to disrupt Catterall’s rhythm with feints and footwork, but the Chorley native calmly countered with sharp, accurate shots that gradually took control of the fight. Eubank focused on body work early, but repeatedly left himself open to Catterall’s crisp left hand, which found its target throughout the contest. Both fighters hit the canvas due to tangles in the third and sixth rounds before the accidental headbutt caused serious cuts—one over Catterall’s right eyebrow and another above Eubank’s left.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: results from around the world |
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Khalil El Hadri TKO4 Samir Ziani ... Khalil El Hadri (21 wins, 3 losses) resoundingly defeated Samir Ziani (36 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses) by technical knockout in the fourth round of a junior lightweight bout. From the first bell, Ziani did as expected, immediately advancing and applying pressure. This strategy did not surprise Khalil, who was waiting for him with hard punches and a well-established fight plan that led him to victory. In the fourth round, a combination to the head and body sent his opponent to the canvas; and although he managed to get back on his feet, the referee decided to stop the fight after an aggressive attack by the Parisian fighter.
Shamar Leon Canal W10 Bryan Jiménez... Shamar Leon Canal of New York defeated Nicaragua's Bryan Jiménez by ten-round decision. The lightweight bout took place in Shreveport, Louisiana. Canal (12-0, 7 KOs) showed better boxing skills from the outset, dominating the tough Jimenez (17-2, 10 KOs), who always sought to fight with determination, but not with enough skill. Jiménez proved to be a tough test, perhaps the first of Canal's career. Canal knocked down Jiménez in the eighth round to secure the victory. The judges’ scores were: Pat Dayton Monroe 96-93, Buddy Caskey 95-94, and Bassel Mahgoub 98-91.
DonJuan van Heerden TKO10 Dean Promnick ... South African middleweights DonJuan van Heerden and Dean Promnick clashed at Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, South Africa, with van Heerden winning by late stoppage. Van Heerden (10-3) dominated and broke down Promnick, boxing with confidence and sticking to a game plan that was as simple yet effective. His high-pressure game proved telling and when Promnick (5-1) was pulled out at the end of the tenth round, it came as little surprise. He was well beaten.
Stefano Ramundo W10 Samy Khellas ... In Grosseto, Italy, local fighter Stefano Ramundo (17-2-0, 3 KOs) defeated Samy Khellas (7-7-1, 1 KO) of France in a junior welterweight bout. Ramundo dominated the actions against a complicated opponent but after ten rounds, he secured a well-deserved victory on the judges’ scorecards. This card was promoted by Rossana Conti Cavini, Italy’s longest serving and most experienced promoter, who began promoting boxing in 1981 with her late husband Umberto Cavini.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: results from around the world
Khalil El Hadri TKO4 Samir Ziani ... Khalil El Hadri (21 wins, 3 losses) resoundingly defeated Samir Ziani (36 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses) by technical knockout in the fourth round of a junior lightweight bout. From the first bell, Ziani did as expected, immediately advancing and applying pressure. This strategy did not surprise Khalil, who was waiting for him with hard punches and a well-established fight plan that led him to victory. In the fourth round, a combination to the head and body sent his opponent to the canvas; and although he managed to get back on his feet, the referee decided to stop the fight after an aggressive attack by the Parisian fighter.
Shamar Leon Canal W10 Bryan Jiménez... Shamar Leon Canal of New York defeated Nicaragua's Bryan Jiménez by ten-round decision. The lightweight bout took place in Shreveport, Louisiana. Canal (12-0, 7 KOs) showed better boxing skills from the outset, dominating the tough Jimenez (17-2, 10 KOs), who always sought to fight with determination, but not with enough skill. Jiménez proved to be a tough test, perhaps the first of Canal's career. Canal knocked down Jiménez in the eighth round to secure the victory. The judges’ scores were: Pat Dayton Monroe 96-93, Buddy Caskey 95-94, and Bassel Mahgoub 98-91.
DonJuan van Heerden TKO10 Dean Promnick ... South African middleweights DonJuan van Heerden and Dean Promnick clashed at Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, South Africa, with van Heerden winning by late stoppage. Van Heerden (10-3) dominated and broke down Promnick, boxing with confidence and sticking to a game plan that was as simple yet effective. His high-pressure game proved telling and when Promnick (5-1) was pulled out at the end of the tenth round, it came as little surprise. He was well beaten.
Stefano Ramundo W10 Samy Khellas ... In Grosseto, Italy, local fighter Stefano Ramundo (17-2-0, 3 KOs) defeated Samy Khellas (7-7-1, 1 KO) of France in a junior welterweight bout. Ramundo dominated the actions against a complicated opponent but after ten rounds, he secured a well-deserved victory on the judges’ scorecards. This card was promoted by Rossana Conti Cavini, Italy’s longest serving and most experienced promoter, who began promoting boxing in 1981 with her late husband Umberto Cavini.
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Yoseline Perez wins silver for USA in Astana |
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Yoseline Perez closed the week for Team USA at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 with a silver medal. Perez’s bid for a gold medal came up just short in a 5-0 defeat in the 54-kilogram final against India’s Sakshi Sakshi. The World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 was hosted at the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace in Astana, Kazakhstan. Perez was unable to find her footing from the beginning of the match against Sakshi and was stifled by her Indian opponent’s length. Despite many attempts at using her speed against Sakshi’s defense, Perez could not muster a consistent attack around her opponent’s tie-ups. After the opening round, Perez was behind 4-1, creating a large deficit for Perez to overcome. While round two continued as a gritty battle for Perez, she pushed ahead, despite Sakshi’s many attempts to slow her down in the clinch position. Heading into round three, Perez was able to trim the judges' scores to 3-0, still in favor of Sakshi, setting up a critical round three. The bantamweight bout concluded in the same fashion as the opening two rounds, and unfortunately, did not fall in Perez’s favor. After the final three minutes of competition, Perez was defeated by a unanimous decision, cementing the silver medal for her.
Perez closes the week with a 3-1 record for her third international medal of the calendar year. Throughout her opening three tournaments, Perez has earned two silver medals, each at a World Boxing Cup event, and one gold medal at the World Boxing Challenge Grand Prix Usti Nad Labem. She will now turn her attention to the inaugural World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, in September.
Team USA closed the week of competition at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 with three medals: silver for Perez and two bronze, one for Morelle McCane (women’s welterweight) and one for Robby Gonzales (men’s light heavyweight).
Head Coach Billy Walsh (Colorado Springs, Colo.) led the charge for Team USA at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025. National Resident Coach Timothy Nolan (Rochester, N.Y.), Nicole Burleson (Bethany, Okla.), and Eric Zimmerman (Alexandria, Va.) assisted Coach Walsh throughout the week.
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Yoseline Perez wins silver for USA in Astana
Yoseline Perez closed the week for Team USA at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 with a silver medal. Perez’s bid for a gold medal came up just short in a 5-0 defeat in the 54-kilogram final against India’s Sakshi Sakshi. The World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 was hosted at the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace in Astana, Kazakhstan. Perez was unable to find her footing from the beginning of the match against Sakshi and was stifled by her Indian opponent’s length. Despite many attempts at using her speed against Sakshi’s defense, Perez could not muster a consistent attack around her opponent’s tie-ups. After the opening round, Perez was behind 4-1, creating a large deficit for Perez to overcome. While round two continued as a gritty battle for Perez, she pushed ahead, despite Sakshi’s many attempts to slow her down in the clinch position. Heading into round three, Perez was able to trim the judges' scores to 3-0, still in favor of Sakshi, setting up a critical round three. The bantamweight bout concluded in the same fashion as the opening two rounds, and unfortunately, did not fall in Perez’s favor. After the final three minutes of competition, Perez was defeated by a unanimous decision, cementing the silver medal for her.
Perez closes the week with a 3-1 record for her third international medal of the calendar year. Throughout her opening three tournaments, Perez has earned two silver medals, each at a World Boxing Cup event, and one gold medal at the World Boxing Challenge Grand Prix Usti Nad Labem. She will now turn her attention to the inaugural World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, in September.
Team USA closed the week of competition at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 with three medals: silver for Perez and two bronze, one for Morelle McCane (women’s welterweight) and one for Robby Gonzales (men’s light heavyweight).
Head Coach Billy Walsh (Colorado Springs, Colo.) led the charge for Team USA at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025. National Resident Coach Timothy Nolan (Rochester, N.Y.), Nicole Burleson (Bethany, Okla.), and Eric Zimmerman (Alexandria, Va.) assisted Coach Walsh throughout the week.
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Hatton coming back to fight a fellow 46-year old |
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Former two-division champion Ricky Hatton announced a comeback fight for December 2nd at The Agenda in Dubai. Hatton tweeted that he will fight 46 year-old Eisa Al Dah of Dubai, who is 8-3. Hatton, also age 46, is 45-3 for his career. Hatton has not had an official fight since 2012, although he has fought in exhibitions since then. Al Dah last won a fight in 2012 but came back in 2021 to get stopped in the first round by a nondescript opponent.
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Hatton coming back to fight a fellow 46-year old
Former two-division champion Ricky Hatton announced a comeback fight for December 2nd at The Agenda in Dubai. Hatton tweeted that he will fight 46 year-old Eisa Al Dah of Dubai, who is 8-3. Hatton, also age 46, is 45-3 for his career. Hatton has not had an official fight since 2012, although he has fought in exhibitions since then. Al Dah last won a fight in 2012 but came back in 2021 to get stopped in the first round by a nondescript opponent.
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