Heavyweight Jerry Forrest in action today |
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Today (Wednesday October 23rd), DiBella Entertainment presents “Heroes on the Hudson 2” in New York City at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The main event features a rematch between IBF bantamweight champion Miyo Yoshida and Shurretta Metcalf. The evening will kick off with a heavyweight clash between Jerry “Slugger” Forrest (27-6-2, 20 KOs), of Newport News, VA, and Brooklyn, NY’s Earl Newman (10-3-1, 7 KOs), scheduled for eight rounds. The show will be broadcast live on ProBoxTV, beginning at 8:00pm ET/5:00pm PT. A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to West Point Society of New York, Merging Vets & Players, and The Headstrong Project. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.
Forrest, who is coming off of a unanimous decision win against Robert Hall Jr. late last year, plans to set the stage for a major fight in 2025. Before turning pro, Newman was an accomplished amateur, winning the National Golden Gloves, National PAL tournament, and New York Golden Gloves twice.
Forrest, the heavy-handed six-foot-one southpaw was given his “Slugger” nickname by his grandmother after he survived complications at birth. In 2021, Forrest engaged in back-to-back slugfests, both of which ended in controversial draws, against then-undefeated southpaw Zhilei Zhang and a rematch against top-rated contender Michael Hunter. Forrest has also battled Jermaine Franklin, Carlos Takam, Kubrat Pulev and Jared Anderson. “I’ve been in camp for the last few months,” said Forrest. “I always stay in shape, and I’m always ready. I’m feeling good, feeling healthy, and I’m ready for a fight. We’ve been studying footage of Newman. I’m not going in the ring feeling like this will be a pushover. I will be prepared for whatever Newman brings.”
Being a part of “Heroes on the Hudson 2” is especially important to Forrest, as his father, Duane, was a Master Chief Petty Officer aboard the USS Nimitz before recently retiring from the Navy. At the outset of his ring career, Jerry had been employed as a nuclear electrician for ten years, working on submarines and aircraft carriers. “My parents were always very supportive of me pursuing boxing. When my dad was in the Navy, he would get the carriers to show my fights. I had soldiers all over the world supporting me whenever I fought. It is an honor to fight on this card. The military blessed my family. We wouldn’t have what we have now without it.”
The elder Forrest is proud of his son for pursuing his dream. “Jerry got into a fight at school with a bully, a gang member,” said Mr. Forrest, describing his son’s start in boxing. “The bully hit my son from behind, and Jerry responded by beating him up. The school official described my son’s punches sounding like a bat hitting a wall. After that, some kids came to our front door at home looking to fight my son, and he beat up them too. I told my son that if he wanted to fight, he needed to do it in the ring.
“We have always been supportive of my son’s career,” continued Mr. Forrest, who is proud that his son will fight on an event benefiting veterans. “My heart is with the veterans. I’m one myself. Men and women sign their names on dotted lines to defend this country and it’s about freedom. We enlist at our free will. That takes courage, heart, grit and guts. Only one percent of the population joins. Any member of any branch, I applaud you and thank you for your service. A lot of people won’t make the sacrifice. Most people do other things in life. It’s not easy by any means. Veterans made a sacrifice to give a part of their lives to defend democracy and freedom in our nation. I tip my hat to them because they are true leaders.”
Junior welterweight contender “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (21-0-2, 10 KOs), of East Hartford, CT, squares off against Rochester, NY’s Lavisas Williams (10-1-1, 3 KOs) in the co-feature. Williams last fought in June, stopping Willmank Brito in the third round.
Also on the undercard, Polish light heavyweight Konrad Kaczmarkiewicz (7-1-1, 3 KOs), a popular fighter out of Brooklyn, NY, takes on Pennsylvania’s Khainell Wheeler (7-5, 6 KOs) in a six-round bout. A Polish National Champion as an amateur, Kaczmarkiewicz trains out of the same gym as world champion Miyo Yoshida and is cornered by Aureliano Sosa. Managed by Lukasz Kownacki, he made his US debut last month in Queens, NY, with a fifth-round stoppage.
Junior lightweight Edward “Kid” Vazquez (16-2, 3 KOs), of Fort Worth, TX is matched against Kenneth Taylor (14-3-2, 6 KOs), of Tyler, TX, in a ten-round contest. Vazquez has been anxious to return to the ring following his dominant win against Daniel Bailey in May. The fight followed a controversial majority decision loss to then-IBF featherweight world champion Joe Cordina in an action-packed “Fight of the Year” contender for 2023.
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Heavyweight Jerry Forrest in action today
Today (Wednesday October 23rd), DiBella Entertainment presents “Heroes on the Hudson 2” in New York City at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The main event features a rematch between IBF bantamweight champion Miyo Yoshida and Shurretta Metcalf. The evening will kick off with a heavyweight clash between Jerry “Slugger” Forrest (27-6-2, 20 KOs), of Newport News, VA, and Brooklyn, NY’s Earl Newman (10-3-1, 7 KOs), scheduled for eight rounds. The show will be broadcast live on ProBoxTV, beginning at 8:00pm ET/5:00pm PT. A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to West Point Society of New York, Merging Vets & Players, and The Headstrong Project. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.
Forrest, who is coming off of a unanimous decision win against Robert Hall Jr. late last year, plans to set the stage for a major fight in 2025. Before turning pro, Newman was an accomplished amateur, winning the National Golden Gloves, National PAL tournament, and New York Golden Gloves twice.
Forrest, the heavy-handed six-foot-one southpaw was given his “Slugger” nickname by his grandmother after he survived complications at birth. In 2021, Forrest engaged in back-to-back slugfests, both of which ended in controversial draws, against then-undefeated southpaw Zhilei Zhang and a rematch against top-rated contender Michael Hunter. Forrest has also battled Jermaine Franklin, Carlos Takam, Kubrat Pulev and Jared Anderson. “I’ve been in camp for the last few months,” said Forrest. “I always stay in shape, and I’m always ready. I’m feeling good, feeling healthy, and I’m ready for a fight. We’ve been studying footage of Newman. I’m not going in the ring feeling like this will be a pushover. I will be prepared for whatever Newman brings.”
Being a part of “Heroes on the Hudson 2” is especially important to Forrest, as his father, Duane, was a Master Chief Petty Officer aboard the USS Nimitz before recently retiring from the Navy. At the outset of his ring career, Jerry had been employed as a nuclear electrician for ten years, working on submarines and aircraft carriers. “My parents were always very supportive of me pursuing boxing. When my dad was in the Navy, he would get the carriers to show my fights. I had soldiers all over the world supporting me whenever I fought. It is an honor to fight on this card. The military blessed my family. We wouldn’t have what we have now without it.”
The elder Forrest is proud of his son for pursuing his dream. “Jerry got into a fight at school with a bully, a gang member,” said Mr. Forrest, describing his son’s start in boxing. “The bully hit my son from behind, and Jerry responded by beating him up. The school official described my son’s punches sounding like a bat hitting a wall. After that, some kids came to our front door at home looking to fight my son, and he beat up them too. I told my son that if he wanted to fight, he needed to do it in the ring.
“We have always been supportive of my son’s career,” continued Mr. Forrest, who is proud that his son will fight on an event benefiting veterans. “My heart is with the veterans. I’m one myself. Men and women sign their names on dotted lines to defend this country and it’s about freedom. We enlist at our free will. That takes courage, heart, grit and guts. Only one percent of the population joins. Any member of any branch, I applaud you and thank you for your service. A lot of people won’t make the sacrifice. Most people do other things in life. It’s not easy by any means. Veterans made a sacrifice to give a part of their lives to defend democracy and freedom in our nation. I tip my hat to them because they are true leaders.”
Junior welterweight contender “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (21-0-2, 10 KOs), of East Hartford, CT, squares off against Rochester, NY’s Lavisas Williams (10-1-1, 3 KOs) in the co-feature. Williams last fought in June, stopping Willmank Brito in the third round.
Also on the undercard, Polish light heavyweight Konrad Kaczmarkiewicz (7-1-1, 3 KOs), a popular fighter out of Brooklyn, NY, takes on Pennsylvania’s Khainell Wheeler (7-5, 6 KOs) in a six-round bout. A Polish National Champion as an amateur, Kaczmarkiewicz trains out of the same gym as world champion Miyo Yoshida and is cornered by Aureliano Sosa. Managed by Lukasz Kownacki, he made his US debut last month in Queens, NY, with a fifth-round stoppage.
Junior lightweight Edward “Kid” Vazquez (16-2, 3 KOs), of Fort Worth, TX is matched against Kenneth Taylor (14-3-2, 6 KOs), of Tyler, TX, in a ten-round contest. Vazquez has been anxious to return to the ring following his dominant win against Daniel Bailey in May. The fight followed a controversial majority decision loss to then-IBF featherweight world champion Joe Cordina in an action-packed “Fight of the Year” contender for 2023.
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Anthony Yarde calls out Joshua Buatsi |
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Anthony Yarde W10 Ralfs Vilcans ... Anthony Yarde reiterated his calls for all-British light heavyweight showdown with Joshua Buatsi despite an underwhelming comeback victory over Ralfs Vilcans (17-2) on Saturday night. The Londoner, who has previously challenged for world titles against Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev, dropped his opponent within the first ten seconds at the Copper Box Arena but then labored to a points victory in his first fight in eight months. Yarde (26-3) floored Vilcans with his first meaningful punch but was dragged into an unexpected battle against a stubborn opponent. Referee Victor Loughlin made Yarde a 98-92 winner, but Sky Sports wrote that the bout was closer and tougher than that scoreline suggests.
Yarde had been hoping to make a statement ahead of a showdown with Buatsi, potentially for the WBO interim title next year, but insists that he still expects to have high-profile fights in 2025. "I will fight anybody," he told Sky Sports.
Yarde explained his lukewarm performance by saying, ""I've fought at the top of the mountain. Sometimes who is put in front of you might bring out the best version of you." This [was] a last-minute opponent. Maybe mentally I got a bit complacent here, but I would have to turn up for Buatsi. It's not just Joshua Buatsi, there's Dan Azeez, Craig Richards, so many names in this British scene. I've fought twice at world level. Before [Dmitry] Bivol I gave [Artur] Beterbiev his hardest fight. There's fights out there, but Josh Buatsi is one of the fights I want personally."
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Anthony Yarde calls out Joshua Buatsi
Anthony Yarde W10 Ralfs Vilcans ... Anthony Yarde reiterated his calls for all-British light heavyweight showdown with Joshua Buatsi despite an underwhelming comeback victory over Ralfs Vilcans (17-2) on Saturday night. The Londoner, who has previously challenged for world titles against Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev, dropped his opponent within the first ten seconds at the Copper Box Arena but then labored to a points victory in his first fight in eight months. Yarde (26-3) floored Vilcans with his first meaningful punch but was dragged into an unexpected battle against a stubborn opponent. Referee Victor Loughlin made Yarde a 98-92 winner, but Sky Sports wrote that the bout was closer and tougher than that scoreline suggests.
Yarde had been hoping to make a statement ahead of a showdown with Buatsi, potentially for the WBO interim title next year, but insists that he still expects to have high-profile fights in 2025. "I will fight anybody," he told Sky Sports.
Yarde explained his lukewarm performance by saying, ""I've fought at the top of the mountain. Sometimes who is put in front of you might bring out the best version of you." This [was] a last-minute opponent. Maybe mentally I got a bit complacent here, but I would have to turn up for Buatsi. It's not just Joshua Buatsi, there's Dan Azeez, Craig Richards, so many names in this British scene. I've fought twice at world level. Before [Dmitry] Bivol I gave [Artur] Beterbiev his hardest fight. There's fights out there, but Josh Buatsi is one of the fights I want personally."
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U19 amateur world championships start this weekend |
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More than 180 boxers from 30 nationals will compete in the 2024 U19 World Boxing Championships which get underway this week at the Pueblo Convention Center, Colorado, USA (October 26 – November 2). The competition, for male and female boxers aged 17 and 18, is World Boxing’s first-ever global championships. It will feature athletes from all five continents that compete in boxing and will be held across 10 weight categories for both men and women. The 2024 U19 World Boxing Championships will be streamed live on World Boxing’s YouTube page and World Boxing will be posting updates throughout the competition on its social media channels. The action will run across one session per day, beginning at 15:00 MT for the first five days when there will be two rings in place. The penultimate day, Friday, 1 November, will have one session in one ring, beginning at 13:00 MT. The final day, when the medals will be handed out, will also feature action in a single ring across one session of boxing, beginning at 13:00 MT.
The largest contingent of boxers taking part in this historic event are from the host nation, USA, along with India and Italy, who have all entered teams of 15 men and women. Other National Federations that will be taking part in the U19 Championships are Algeria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Ecuador, England, Finland, Germany, India, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Mongolia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Tahiti, Thailand, Ukraine, United States and Wales.
Details of the draw, schedule, and all event documents can be viewed at https://www.usaboxing.org/2024-u19-world-boxing-championships.
The President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, said: “This competition is a significant milestone in the development of World Boxing, and I would like to thank USA Boxing for hosting our first global championships. World Boxing is committed to putting athletes first and delivering high quality competition opportunities for boxers at all levels is a significant part of this. I have no doubt that our colleagues at USA Boxing will deliver a top-class event which will provide a fantastic platform for U19 men and women from our member National Federations to showcase their skills and further their development as elite boxers.”
USA Boxing CEO and Executive Director, Mike McAtee, commented: "As we prepare to host the 2024 World Boxing U19 Championships, I could not be more excited for the opportunity to showcase the incredible talent of our youth boxers on an international stage. This event marks a historic moment for World Boxing and our sport. The World Boxing U19 Championships will serve as a monumental opportunity to keep Olympic-style boxing at the heart of the Olympic movement, and we are thrilled to play a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of champions from around the world. Together, we will celebrate the spirit of competition and the dedication that defines our sport."
The Chair of the Board of USA Boxing, Tyson Lee, added: “As Chair of the Board of USA Boxing, I am honored to welcome everyone to the 2024 World Boxing U19 Championships here in Colorado. In a short time, World Boxing has made remarkable progress in fostering competitive international tournaments by collaborating with National Federations around the globe. We at USA Boxing are proud to contribute to this effort, and we are eager to witness the spirited competition that this event will bring. On behalf of the Board of Directors, our dedicated staff, and the entire USA Boxing community, thank you for your participation and best of luck to all the athletes!”
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U19 amateur world championships start this weekend
More than 180 boxers from 30 nationals will compete in the 2024 U19 World Boxing Championships which get underway this week at the Pueblo Convention Center, Colorado, USA (October 26 – November 2). The competition, for male and female boxers aged 17 and 18, is World Boxing’s first-ever global championships. It will feature athletes from all five continents that compete in boxing and will be held across 10 weight categories for both men and women. The 2024 U19 World Boxing Championships will be streamed live on World Boxing’s YouTube page and World Boxing will be posting updates throughout the competition on its social media channels. The action will run across one session per day, beginning at 15:00 MT for the first five days when there will be two rings in place. The penultimate day, Friday, 1 November, will have one session in one ring, beginning at 13:00 MT. The final day, when the medals will be handed out, will also feature action in a single ring across one session of boxing, beginning at 13:00 MT.
The largest contingent of boxers taking part in this historic event are from the host nation, USA, along with India and Italy, who have all entered teams of 15 men and women. Other National Federations that will be taking part in the U19 Championships are Algeria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Ecuador, England, Finland, Germany, India, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Mongolia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Tahiti, Thailand, Ukraine, United States and Wales.
Details of the draw, schedule, and all event documents can be viewed at https://www.usaboxing.org/2024-u19-world-boxing-championships.
The President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, said: “This competition is a significant milestone in the development of World Boxing, and I would like to thank USA Boxing for hosting our first global championships. World Boxing is committed to putting athletes first and delivering high quality competition opportunities for boxers at all levels is a significant part of this. I have no doubt that our colleagues at USA Boxing will deliver a top-class event which will provide a fantastic platform for U19 men and women from our member National Federations to showcase their skills and further their development as elite boxers.”
USA Boxing CEO and Executive Director, Mike McAtee, commented: "As we prepare to host the 2024 World Boxing U19 Championships, I could not be more excited for the opportunity to showcase the incredible talent of our youth boxers on an international stage. This event marks a historic moment for World Boxing and our sport. The World Boxing U19 Championships will serve as a monumental opportunity to keep Olympic-style boxing at the heart of the Olympic movement, and we are thrilled to play a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of champions from around the world. Together, we will celebrate the spirit of competition and the dedication that defines our sport."
The Chair of the Board of USA Boxing, Tyson Lee, added: “As Chair of the Board of USA Boxing, I am honored to welcome everyone to the 2024 World Boxing U19 Championships here in Colorado. In a short time, World Boxing has made remarkable progress in fostering competitive international tournaments by collaborating with National Federations around the globe. We at USA Boxing are proud to contribute to this effort, and we are eager to witness the spirited competition that this event will bring. On behalf of the Board of Directors, our dedicated staff, and the entire USA Boxing community, thank you for your participation and best of luck to all the athletes!”
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Pablo Corzo continues to climb at super middleweight |
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Pablo Corzo continued KO3 Luciano Chaparro... Argentina's Pablo Corzo continued his winning ways last Saturday night, knocking out Mexico's Luciano Chaparro in a super middleweight contest at the Arena de Aconcagua, in Mendoza, Argentina. The 24 year-old native of Catamarca won by knockout in the third round to improve his record to 21-0 with 18 KOs. Chaparro’s record now stands at 13 wins, 8 losses, 3 draws and 4 knockouts.
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Pablo Corzo continues to climb at super middleweight
Pablo Corzo continued KO3 Luciano Chaparro... Argentina's Pablo Corzo continued his winning ways last Saturday night, knocking out Mexico's Luciano Chaparro in a super middleweight contest at the Arena de Aconcagua, in Mendoza, Argentina. The 24 year-old native of Catamarca won by knockout in the third round to improve his record to 21-0 with 18 KOs. Chaparro’s record now stands at 13 wins, 8 losses, 3 draws and 4 knockouts.
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WBC to recognize a third cruiserweight champ |
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THE WBC wrote: In February of 2023 Badou Jack conquered the WBC cruiserweight championship by defeating then-champion Ilunga Makabu. Soon thereafter, Jack petitioned the WBC to place him as champion in recess so he could try to schedule a fight for the WBC bridgerweight title, but his attempts were unsuccessful. He is now looking to return to the cruiserweight division. In the meantime, Noel Mikaelian won the vacant WBC cruiserweight title, knocking out Makabu. The WBC ordered Mikaelian to make his first mandatory defense against WBC #1 contender Ryan Rozicki of Canada who had won a final elimination bout via knockout of Olanrewaju Durodola. Mikaelian's promoter, Don King Promotions, contracted the Mikaelian vs. Rozicki fight to take place in Miami on June 7, 2024. Unfortunately, Mikaelian sustained a sparring injury just ten days before that fight. DKP rescheduled the fight for September 28th also in Miami, again unfortunately, Don King experienced health issues severed enough not to be able to promote the event.
After thoroughly evaluating all the facts and having engaged in numerous communications with both camps, the WBC ordered a purse bid for the Mikaelian vs Rozicki bout. 3 Lion Promotions attended the bid, but [according to the WBC] the bid did not have to take place as both camps informed the WBC that they had reached an agreement. The fight was then scheduled for December 7th in Canada. 3Lions Promotions produced bout contracts, contracted for the arena, arranged for broadcast production, and incurred other substantial expenses. After all that effort, now it turns out that Mikaelian is unavailable to participate in the fight against Rozicki due to an ongoing legal dispute with his promoter Don King Productions.
The WBC Board of Governors has voted unanimously to support the petition from 3 Lion Promotions to approve an interim championship between Rozicki and WBC #2 contender Yamil Peralta from Argentina. That bout is a rematch of their highly controversial fight back in 2022. The Rozicki vs. Peralta fight for the WBC interim cruiserweight title will take place on December 7th in Canada. The WBC Board of Governors will review the complete situation all weight categories during the upcoming annual convention in Hamburg. Germany from December 8th-14th.
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WBC to recognize a third cruiserweight champ
THE WBC wrote: In February of 2023 Badou Jack conquered the WBC cruiserweight championship by defeating then-champion Ilunga Makabu. Soon thereafter, Jack petitioned the WBC to place him as champion in recess so he could try to schedule a fight for the WBC bridgerweight title, but his attempts were unsuccessful. He is now looking to return to the cruiserweight division. In the meantime, Noel Mikaelian won the vacant WBC cruiserweight title, knocking out Makabu. The WBC ordered Mikaelian to make his first mandatory defense against WBC #1 contender Ryan Rozicki of Canada who had won a final elimination bout via knockout of Olanrewaju Durodola. Mikaelian's promoter, Don King Promotions, contracted the Mikaelian vs. Rozicki fight to take place in Miami on June 7, 2024. Unfortunately, Mikaelian sustained a sparring injury just ten days before that fight. DKP rescheduled the fight for September 28th also in Miami, again unfortunately, Don King experienced health issues severed enough not to be able to promote the event.
After thoroughly evaluating all the facts and having engaged in numerous communications with both camps, the WBC ordered a purse bid for the Mikaelian vs Rozicki bout. 3 Lion Promotions attended the bid, but [according to the WBC] the bid did not have to take place as both camps informed the WBC that they had reached an agreement. The fight was then scheduled for December 7th in Canada. 3Lions Promotions produced bout contracts, contracted for the arena, arranged for broadcast production, and incurred other substantial expenses. After all that effort, now it turns out that Mikaelian is unavailable to participate in the fight against Rozicki due to an ongoing legal dispute with his promoter Don King Productions.
The WBC Board of Governors has voted unanimously to support the petition from 3 Lion Promotions to approve an interim championship between Rozicki and WBC #2 contender Yamil Peralta from Argentina. That bout is a rematch of their highly controversial fight back in 2022. The Rozicki vs. Peralta fight for the WBC interim cruiserweight title will take place on December 7th in Canada. The WBC Board of Governors will review the complete situation all weight categories during the upcoming annual convention in Hamburg. Germany from December 8th-14th.
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A few words with O'Shaquie Foster |
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Former junior lightweight champion O'Shaquie Foster has unfinished business. The 31-year old will face Robson Conceição for the WBC world title on Saturday, Nov. 2nd at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Foster lost his title to Conceição via split decision in July, a controversial verdict that left him angered and motivated to become a two-time champion. Conceição vs. Foster II will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.
After a decorated amateur career, Foster (22-3, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2012. After early setbacks, he rebounded with a 12-fight winning streak under trainer Bobby Benton, capturing the WBC strap by outpointing Rey Vargas in February 2023. Foster defended his crown with a thrilling twelfth-round stoppage of Rocky Hernandez on enemy turf before outboxing Abraham Nova to a points verdict in his second defense.
Following a recent training session in Houston, this is what Foster had to say:
“The fight was easy. I didn't see where the judges got that decision. But the fight was easy for me. I only saw that I could have been more active and let my hands go in certain situations more."
“There are a lot of things I can do in that ring. I feel like I could have just put more combinations. I could have done a little bit more. But now I get the opportunity to do it again. Not everybody gets that opportunity. A lot of times, people get robbed, and they don't they don't get the rematch. So, I’m fortunate to get that rematch, and I’m looking to let my hands go more.”
“I feel like he might try to come out and do something different, but if you watch his fights, he fights the same way every time. He doesn't switch it up too much. But, in my eyes, I’m just focused on what I can do. I'm good with rematches. I used to get them a lot in the amateurs and always avenged them. This is my first one in the pros, so I’m excited about it. It’s going to be fun.”
“I want the biggest fights. We’ve got the Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez fight on December 7. So, I feel like it will line up perfectly.”
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A few words with O'Shaquie Foster
Former junior lightweight champion O'Shaquie Foster has unfinished business. The 31-year old will face Robson Conceição for the WBC world title on Saturday, Nov. 2nd at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Foster lost his title to Conceição via split decision in July, a controversial verdict that left him angered and motivated to become a two-time champion. Conceição vs. Foster II will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.
After a decorated amateur career, Foster (22-3, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2012. After early setbacks, he rebounded with a 12-fight winning streak under trainer Bobby Benton, capturing the WBC strap by outpointing Rey Vargas in February 2023. Foster defended his crown with a thrilling twelfth-round stoppage of Rocky Hernandez on enemy turf before outboxing Abraham Nova to a points verdict in his second defense.
Following a recent training session in Houston, this is what Foster had to say:
“The fight was easy. I didn't see where the judges got that decision. But the fight was easy for me. I only saw that I could have been more active and let my hands go in certain situations more."
“There are a lot of things I can do in that ring. I feel like I could have just put more combinations. I could have done a little bit more. But now I get the opportunity to do it again. Not everybody gets that opportunity. A lot of times, people get robbed, and they don't they don't get the rematch. So, I’m fortunate to get that rematch, and I’m looking to let my hands go more.”
“I feel like he might try to come out and do something different, but if you watch his fights, he fights the same way every time. He doesn't switch it up too much. But, in my eyes, I’m just focused on what I can do. I'm good with rematches. I used to get them a lot in the amateurs and always avenged them. This is my first one in the pros, so I’m excited about it. It’s going to be fun.”
“I want the biggest fights. We’ve got the Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez fight on December 7. So, I feel like it will line up perfectly.”
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Thorslund to defend titles in Denmark on Friday |
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On Friday, at the Graakjaer Arena in Holstebro, Denmark, WBC/WBO bantamweight champion Dina Thorslund returns to the ring for a defense against Terumi Nuki of Japan. At 31 years old, Thorslund is 22-0 and a two-division champion, having previously held the WBO junor featherweight title. Nuki is 15-5 with a modest three-fight wining streak.
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Thorslund to defend titles in Denmark on Friday
On Friday, at the Graakjaer Arena in Holstebro, Denmark, WBC/WBO bantamweight champion Dina Thorslund returns to the ring for a defense against Terumi Nuki of Japan. At 31 years old, Thorslund is 22-0 and a two-division champion, having previously held the WBO junor featherweight title. Nuki is 15-5 with a modest three-fight wining streak.
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Jennifer Miranda wins interim featherweight strap |
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Jennifer Miranda W10 Teresa Almengor ... Spain’s Jennifer Miranda showed superiority over Panama’s Teresa Almengor to win the WBA interim featherweight world title on Sunday at the Teatro Las Vegas in Madrid. Miranda’s strong jab to the chest kept her opponent away from her, who, also attacked with strong punches to the soft areas combined with crosses to the face. Almengor on several occasions tried to put her opponent away but the Spaniard used her boxing skills and managed to return to the middle of the ring. The bout reached the final round and the two judges voted 100-90 with one score of 100-89 to give the unanimous decision to the “Storm”. “I am very happy, this is possibly my last fight in Spain. I want to thank my team, The Boxer Club, the WBA and all of you for coming,” said the new interim champion. This WBA interim featherweight title was created because next week world champion Amanda Serrano completes a year without defending at 126 pounds. In November, Serrano will fight fat 140 pounds against Katie Taylor and if she wins, she could vacate her current title. So there could be great opportunities ahead for Miranda.
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Jennifer Miranda wins interim featherweight strap
Jennifer Miranda W10 Teresa Almengor ... Spain’s Jennifer Miranda showed superiority over Panama’s Teresa Almengor to win the WBA interim featherweight world title on Sunday at the Teatro Las Vegas in Madrid. Miranda’s strong jab to the chest kept her opponent away from her, who, also attacked with strong punches to the soft areas combined with crosses to the face. Almengor on several occasions tried to put her opponent away but the Spaniard used her boxing skills and managed to return to the middle of the ring. The bout reached the final round and the two judges voted 100-90 with one score of 100-89 to give the unanimous decision to the “Storm”. “I am very happy, this is possibly my last fight in Spain. I want to thank my team, The Boxer Club, the WBA and all of you for coming,” said the new interim champion. This WBA interim featherweight title was created because next week world champion Amanda Serrano completes a year without defending at 126 pounds. In November, Serrano will fight fat 140 pounds against Katie Taylor and if she wins, she could vacate her current title. So there could be great opportunities ahead for Miranda.
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Manny Flores to face Victor Olivo this week |
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Boxing returns to the Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California this Thursday (October 24th). In the main event, Coachella Valley’s hometown hero, Manuel “Gucci Manny” Flores (18-1, 14 KOs), will return to headline Golden Boy Fight Night in a ten-round bantamweight match up against Victor Olivo (21-4-1, 9 KOs). Flores has three straight stoppage wins, while Olivo is coming off a loss to Argi Cortes. DAZN will broadcast.
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Manny Flores to face Victor Olivo this week
Boxing returns to the Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California this Thursday (October 24th). In the main event, Coachella Valley’s hometown hero, Manuel “Gucci Manny” Flores (18-1, 14 KOs), will return to headline Golden Boy Fight Night in a ten-round bantamweight match up against Victor Olivo (21-4-1, 9 KOs). Flores has three straight stoppage wins, while Olivo is coming off a loss to Argi Cortes. DAZN will broadcast.
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Boxlab announces Nov. 1st show |
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Boxlab Promotions announced its next “Night of Champions” boxing event, set to take place on Friday, November 1st at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. Super featherweight Kaipo Gallegos (6-0-1, 5 KOs) from Las Vegas will face Iron Alvarez (15-2, 11 KOs), from Tampa, FL in an eight-round co-feature. On the same show, featherweight Chavez Barrientes (9-0, 6 KOs), also from Las Vegas, will face Noah Contreras (9-1, 4 KOs), from Salt Lake City over eight rounds.The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. Tickets to the live event are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com. ADDITIONAL BOUTS
Planned for the main event, but with no opponent yet, is junior welterweight Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs) of Worcester, Massachusetts...
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Boxlab announces Nov. 1st show
Boxlab Promotions announced its next “Night of Champions” boxing event, set to take place on Friday, November 1st at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. Super featherweight Kaipo Gallegos (6-0-1, 5 KOs) from Las Vegas will face Iron Alvarez (15-2, 11 KOs), from Tampa, FL in an eight-round co-feature. On the same show, featherweight Chavez Barrientes (9-0, 6 KOs), also from Las Vegas, will face Noah Contreras (9-1, 4 KOs), from Salt Lake City over eight rounds.The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. Tickets to the live event are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com. ADDITIONAL BOUTS
Planned for the main event, but with no opponent yet, is junior welterweight Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs) of Worcester, Massachusetts...
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Busy week for BKFC |
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BKFC will present back-to-back bare knuckle events this weekend. BKFC 67 goes down Friday at the Denver Coliseum in Colorado, and the next BKFC Prospect Series event takes place Saturday at the John T. Rhodes Sports Center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The vacant BKFC cruiserweight championship is up for grabs Friday as top contenders Chris Camozzi and Sawyer Depee collide in Denver. Heavy-hitting welterweights Brandon Girtz and Cameron “Jumpman” VanCamp lock horns in Friday’s chief supoorting bout.
Friday’s action in Denver also features a lightweight battle between Darrian Leu-Pierre and Grady Wall, and a middleweight showdown between Pat "The Gorilla Ninja" Casey and Marcus "Bad Intentions" Edwards. Fans in Denver are also in store for a full slate of returning BKFC combatants, like Hasan "Hungry" Al-Ghanim, Jordan “Hayes Haymaker” Christensen, Ramiro Figueroa, Derek “Rage” Perez, Dylan “The Villain” Schulte, Sydney “Sundance” Smith, Andrew “Legend” Strode, Chancey “Superfly” Wilson and Andrew “Golden Child” Yates.
Saturday's BKFC Prospect Series in South Carolina is headlined by the unbeaten Brandon Bushaw as he tries to smash his way to 3-0 against his toughest opposition yet, the battle-tested “Slick” Rick Caruso. Fast-rising fan-favorites Jeremiah Scott and Dakota “Montana Dak” Highpine meet in Saturday’s co-feature. The BKFC Prospect Series is loaded with aspiring bare knuckle stars, like Lewis Glover and Justin Howell, who are both hungry to make a first impression to remember in Saturday’s Feature Fight in Myrtle Beach.
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Busy week for BKFC
BKFC will present back-to-back bare knuckle events this weekend. BKFC 67 goes down Friday at the Denver Coliseum in Colorado, and the next BKFC Prospect Series event takes place Saturday at the John T. Rhodes Sports Center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The vacant BKFC cruiserweight championship is up for grabs Friday as top contenders Chris Camozzi and Sawyer Depee collide in Denver. Heavy-hitting welterweights Brandon Girtz and Cameron “Jumpman” VanCamp lock horns in Friday’s chief supoorting bout.
Friday’s action in Denver also features a lightweight battle between Darrian Leu-Pierre and Grady Wall, and a middleweight showdown between Pat "The Gorilla Ninja" Casey and Marcus "Bad Intentions" Edwards. Fans in Denver are also in store for a full slate of returning BKFC combatants, like Hasan "Hungry" Al-Ghanim, Jordan “Hayes Haymaker” Christensen, Ramiro Figueroa, Derek “Rage” Perez, Dylan “The Villain” Schulte, Sydney “Sundance” Smith, Andrew “Legend” Strode, Chancey “Superfly” Wilson and Andrew “Golden Child” Yates.
Saturday's BKFC Prospect Series in South Carolina is headlined by the unbeaten Brandon Bushaw as he tries to smash his way to 3-0 against his toughest opposition yet, the battle-tested “Slick” Rick Caruso. Fast-rising fan-favorites Jeremiah Scott and Dakota “Montana Dak” Highpine meet in Saturday’s co-feature. The BKFC Prospect Series is loaded with aspiring bare knuckle stars, like Lewis Glover and Justin Howell, who are both hungry to make a first impression to remember in Saturday’s Feature Fight in Myrtle Beach.
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Harlem Eubank fight pushed back to Nov. 22nd |
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Wasserman Boxing announced that Harlem Eubank’s ring return will now take place in Newcastle, on Friday November 22nd, live and free on Channel 5. Eubank faces former French welterweight champion Nurali Erdogan at the Walker Dome. The fight was originally meant to take place on Friday, night in Bolton. According to Wasserman Boxing, a victory for Eubank sets up a huge 2025 with a big fight night in Brighton on the cards for early next year. Eubank (19-0) has not fought since defeating Timo Schwarzkopf in November. Erdogan is 16-3 overall, includiung 2-1 this year.
UNDERCARD DETAILS
Local star Dan Toward, the 4-0 junior middleweight prospect will box in his hometown for the first time as a professional...
Ben Marksby takes on Levi Kinsiona in ten-round contest...
Niall Brown – with an unblemished 12-0 record - looks to continue his march towards the domestic middleweight title picture...
Codie Smith ends an enforced break from the ring, by returning to action...
Sophie Alisch aims to put the featherweight champions on notice, with a display that puts an exclamation mark on her return to the ring...
Joe Laws and Lee Rogers box in front of their home fans and wellterweight Robert Lloyd-Taylor Jr. hopes to move to 9-0, on the show...
Khaleel Majid, Matty Harris, Alex Muprphy and Dan Booth, were scheduled to fight in Bolton but will not be on the card in Newcastle.
Fans who bought tickets for the original date of October 25th, and want a refund, please contact your point of sale.
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Harlem Eubank fight pushed back to Nov. 22nd
Wasserman Boxing announced that Harlem Eubank’s ring return will now take place in Newcastle, on Friday November 22nd, live and free on Channel 5. Eubank faces former French welterweight champion Nurali Erdogan at the Walker Dome. The fight was originally meant to take place on Friday, night in Bolton. According to Wasserman Boxing, a victory for Eubank sets up a huge 2025 with a big fight night in Brighton on the cards for early next year. Eubank (19-0) has not fought since defeating Timo Schwarzkopf in November. Erdogan is 16-3 overall, includiung 2-1 this year.
UNDERCARD DETAILS
Local star Dan Toward, the 4-0 junior middleweight prospect will box in his hometown for the first time as a professional...
Ben Marksby takes on Levi Kinsiona in ten-round contest...
Niall Brown – with an unblemished 12-0 record - looks to continue his march towards the domestic middleweight title picture...
Codie Smith ends an enforced break from the ring, by returning to action...
Sophie Alisch aims to put the featherweight champions on notice, with a display that puts an exclamation mark on her return to the ring...
Joe Laws and Lee Rogers box in front of their home fans and wellterweight Robert Lloyd-Taylor Jr. hopes to move to 9-0, on the show...
Khaleel Majid, Matty Harris, Alex Muprphy and Dan Booth, were scheduled to fight in Bolton but will not be on the card in Newcastle.
Fans who bought tickets for the original date of October 25th, and want a refund, please contact your point of sale.
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Alejandro Paulino takes crossroads fight vs. Toka Kahn Clary |
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There comes a time in every young fighter’s career when he must participate in what’s called a “crossroads fight.” Such fights pit youth versus experience, and the veteran is typically a still viable opponent who can upset the rising star. Get past the veteran and you can take your career to the next level. Fall short and it can kill all the progress you’ve made. Unbeaten lightweight Alejandro Paulino will engage in his crossroads fight on November 2nd at Mohegan Sun Casino, when he takes on the talented Toka Kahn Clary (29-3), whose only defeat in the last five years was a ten-round decision loss to three-division champion Shakur Stevenson. Two of Kahn Clary’s three career losses were to future world champions, Shakur Stevenson and Kid Galahad, and he made it to the final bell in both bouts. Kahn Clary has fought once since the Stevenloss, defeating Jonathan Oquendo-Arnaldi in 2022.
Paulino, who turned pro in May 2021 and now boasts an 18-0 record with 14 knockouts, told BoxingTalk.com, “I’m always motivated for my fights but I’m not going to lie. It’s a little extra motivation because he’s 29-3, he’s got the experience, he’s been on the big stages. It is motivating. I’m training super hard for this fight.” He added, “I try to train hard for all my fights but I’m training extremely hard for this fight. He’s got a lot of experience and I’m really looking forward to seeing what he brings to the table.”
Paulino’s string of victories has brought him closer to his goal of becoming a world champion boxer. He knows that a win over Kahn Clary gets him even closer. “Any step-up fight that I need to take, I feel like my team always, they let me know, like, this fight, you’re good.” He added, “We don’t say not to any fight, but every fight we take is for a step-up, so when we get to that time to fight for a world title, I’ll be ready.”
Paulino believes he’ll truly be ready by the end of next year. The champions in the 135-pound division right now are Stevenson (WBC), Gervonta Davis (WBA), Vasiliy Lomachenko (IBF) and Denys Berinchyk (WBO).
“This [fight against Kahn] is my first ten-rounder so it’s only up from here,” said Paulino.
Even at this point of his career, Paulino is enjoying the accolades and where his talent has brought him so far. “It feels great, amazing, that I’m getting this exposure, at this time in my career,” he said. Headlining at Mohegan and Foxwoods, two of the biggest casinos in the country. It’s just getting me ready for when I get to the next stage, and I will not feel pressured, cause I will already have experienced it before.”
Paulino has headlined at Foxwoods in the past but Nov. 2nd will mark his first time headlining at Connecticut's other major casino, the Mohegan Sun. Promoted by Rhode Island-based promoter Jimmy Burchfield, and trained and managed by Roland Estrada, they believe sky is the limit for Paulino as long as he stays dedicated to his craft. That shouldn’t be a problem because Paulino recently stepped down from his 9 to 5 job to better focus on his blossoming boxing career.
In addition, Paulino used to have to drive from his home in New London, Connecticut to Estrada’s gym in Rhode Island, five days a week, to train. “That’s dedication,” said Estrada. However, Paulino won’t have to make that trek five days a week anymore.
“Last winter I decided I’d have to figure something out for him before he burned out,” said Estrada. “I literally bought a 16 x10 shed and made a little house for him and placed it right in the gym driveway. Now he stays there Monday through Friday and goes home on weekends.”
Paulino said Estrada is “the reason I’m where I’m at right now.” He added, “He’s a great coach, one of the best in the business (and also the father of 2004 Olympian Jason Estrada). He’s the best coach in general, in my eyes.”
Estrada said one of Paulino’s best attributes as a fighter is “his ability to absorb knowledge and listen.”
“The kid has the goods,” said Estrada. “As we continue to tighten his defense eventually this kid will be a force in the lightweight division. As a person he’s as humble as they get. I often compare him to a young teenager. Young teenagers tend to listen because they think you know everything. As they get older, they think they know more than you. Hopefully he keeps that young mentality.”
Estrada added it’s been a great training camp, and there’s been proper preparation for Kahn Clary, a left-handed fighter. “Alejandro has already sparred 125 rounds versus southpaws and on November 2nd he will shine. Guaranteed.”
One year ago, Paulino was honored by the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame as its Professional Boxer of the Year. “It meant a lot,” said Paulino, “Because getting those awards is showing that hard work pays off.”
Paulino can definitely see himself competing at 140 pounds (junior welterweight) in the future, and possibly 147. For right now though, he’s focused on accomplishing as much as he can in the lightweight division. He loves the modern greats of the lightweight division, such as Lomachenko and Manny Pacquiao. Going further back in history, Paulino enjoys watching clips of Roberto Duran when he terrorized the 135-pound division. “He hit hard,” said Paulino.
Even if one day Paulino becomes one of boxing’s biggest stars, don’t expect him to flash his wealth like “Money” Mayweather. “Besides a world title, I just want to get a house, get my mom a house, my dad, whatever he wants, and help my family out, to be honest. I just want to be stable. I’m simple. I don’t like all that [flashy] stuff. I don’t even really like cars like that. I just want to win a world title and make enough money so my parents don’t have to work anymore.”
Tickets for the Nov. 2nd CES Boxing card, which features a total of 13 bouts, can be purchased at cesfights.com/tickets.
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Alejandro Paulino takes crossroads fight vs. Toka Kahn Clary
There comes a time in every young fighter’s career when he must participate in what’s called a “crossroads fight.” Such fights pit youth versus experience, and the veteran is typically a still viable opponent who can upset the rising star. Get past the veteran and you can take your career to the next level. Fall short and it can kill all the progress you’ve made. Unbeaten lightweight Alejandro Paulino will engage in his crossroads fight on November 2nd at Mohegan Sun Casino, when he takes on the talented Toka Kahn Clary (29-3), whose only defeat in the last five years was a ten-round decision loss to three-division champion Shakur Stevenson. Two of Kahn Clary’s three career losses were to future world champions, Shakur Stevenson and Kid Galahad, and he made it to the final bell in both bouts. Kahn Clary has fought once since the Stevenloss, defeating Jonathan Oquendo-Arnaldi in 2022.
Paulino, who turned pro in May 2021 and now boasts an 18-0 record with 14 knockouts, told BoxingTalk.com, “I’m always motivated for my fights but I’m not going to lie. It’s a little extra motivation because he’s 29-3, he’s got the experience, he’s been on the big stages. It is motivating. I’m training super hard for this fight.” He added, “I try to train hard for all my fights but I’m training extremely hard for this fight. He’s got a lot of experience and I’m really looking forward to seeing what he brings to the table.”
Paulino’s string of victories has brought him closer to his goal of becoming a world champion boxer. He knows that a win over Kahn Clary gets him even closer. “Any step-up fight that I need to take, I feel like my team always, they let me know, like, this fight, you’re good.” He added, “We don’t say not to any fight, but every fight we take is for a step-up, so when we get to that time to fight for a world title, I’ll be ready.”
Paulino believes he’ll truly be ready by the end of next year. The champions in the 135-pound division right now are Stevenson (WBC), Gervonta Davis (WBA), Vasiliy Lomachenko (IBF) and Denys Berinchyk (WBO).
“This [fight against Kahn] is my first ten-rounder so it’s only up from here,” said Paulino.
Even at this point of his career, Paulino is enjoying the accolades and where his talent has brought him so far. “It feels great, amazing, that I’m getting this exposure, at this time in my career,” he said. Headlining at Mohegan and Foxwoods, two of the biggest casinos in the country. It’s just getting me ready for when I get to the next stage, and I will not feel pressured, cause I will already have experienced it before.”
Paulino has headlined at Foxwoods in the past but Nov. 2nd will mark his first time headlining at Connecticut's other major casino, the Mohegan Sun. Promoted by Rhode Island-based promoter Jimmy Burchfield, and trained and managed by Roland Estrada, they believe sky is the limit for Paulino as long as he stays dedicated to his craft. That shouldn’t be a problem because Paulino recently stepped down from his 9 to 5 job to better focus on his blossoming boxing career.
In addition, Paulino used to have to drive from his home in New London, Connecticut to Estrada’s gym in Rhode Island, five days a week, to train. “That’s dedication,” said Estrada. However, Paulino won’t have to make that trek five days a week anymore.
“Last winter I decided I’d have to figure something out for him before he burned out,” said Estrada. “I literally bought a 16 x10 shed and made a little house for him and placed it right in the gym driveway. Now he stays there Monday through Friday and goes home on weekends.”
Paulino said Estrada is “the reason I’m where I’m at right now.” He added, “He’s a great coach, one of the best in the business (and also the father of 2004 Olympian Jason Estrada). He’s the best coach in general, in my eyes.”
Estrada said one of Paulino’s best attributes as a fighter is “his ability to absorb knowledge and listen.”
“The kid has the goods,” said Estrada. “As we continue to tighten his defense eventually this kid will be a force in the lightweight division. As a person he’s as humble as they get. I often compare him to a young teenager. Young teenagers tend to listen because they think you know everything. As they get older, they think they know more than you. Hopefully he keeps that young mentality.”
Estrada added it’s been a great training camp, and there’s been proper preparation for Kahn Clary, a left-handed fighter. “Alejandro has already sparred 125 rounds versus southpaws and on November 2nd he will shine. Guaranteed.”
One year ago, Paulino was honored by the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame as its Professional Boxer of the Year. “It meant a lot,” said Paulino, “Because getting those awards is showing that hard work pays off.”
Paulino can definitely see himself competing at 140 pounds (junior welterweight) in the future, and possibly 147. For right now though, he’s focused on accomplishing as much as he can in the lightweight division. He loves the modern greats of the lightweight division, such as Lomachenko and Manny Pacquiao. Going further back in history, Paulino enjoys watching clips of Roberto Duran when he terrorized the 135-pound division. “He hit hard,” said Paulino.
Even if one day Paulino becomes one of boxing’s biggest stars, don’t expect him to flash his wealth like “Money” Mayweather. “Besides a world title, I just want to get a house, get my mom a house, my dad, whatever he wants, and help my family out, to be honest. I just want to be stable. I’m simple. I don’t like all that [flashy] stuff. I don’t even really like cars like that. I just want to win a world title and make enough money so my parents don’t have to work anymore.”
Tickets for the Nov. 2nd CES Boxing card, which features a total of 13 bouts, can be purchased at cesfights.com/tickets.
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Kingsley Ibeh gets 59-second KO |
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Kingsley Ibeh KO1 Jack May... Nigerian heavyweight Kingsley "The Black Lion” Ibeh (14-2-1, 12 KOs) needed just 59 seconds to knock out Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-1, 9 KOs) on a Toro Promotions show at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. There was no “feeling out” period as the 6’4”, 273-pound Ibeh and the 6’8”, 257-pound May traded bombs from the opening bell. Suddenly, Ibeh landed a powerful left cross on May, who was up against the ropes, and “The Outlaw” went down hard, and did not get up before the ten count. Ibeh, fighting out of Phoenix, weighed 7 pounds less than he did for his last fight, 16 fewer than he weighed four fights ago, and the former professional Canadian Football League player won his ninth fight in a row. “The Black Lion” is the cousin of the retired former heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The crowd of 2,000 sold out the venue one week in advance. In the co-feature, hometown favorite Marquice Weston (16-4-1, 9 KOs) registered a first-round stoppage of heavyweight John Shipman (5-8, 2 KOs) by way of a body shot. It was Weston’s first victory in six years.
Haitian-born lightweight Nesley Trezile (1-1) notched his first pro win in a mild upset with a four-round majority decision over local fighter Agustin Tovar (2-1, 0 KOs). Trezile fights out of Los Angeles.
There was almost an upset as Antonio Louis “Tswervo” Hernandez (7-19-4, 4 KOs) gave Juan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0-2, 7 KOs) everything he could handle in their six-round match. Hernandez landed clean shots on Barajas, who was coming off a four-year layoff. Barajas closed the fight strongly, but it wasn’t enough as the judges scored the fight a majority draw.
Illinois junior welterweight Quinn McKenna (1-0-1, 0 KOs) won his first fight as a pro, taking a four-round unanimous decision from Clayton Hibbert (2-3, 2 KOs). Both fighters were hurt in round three as they opened up offensively, leaving both seemingly out on their feet. McKenna, however, was the fresher fighter in the fourth and final round. He had Hibbert on the run to earn his initial victory.
Russian lightweight Samvel Gandilyan (5-0-1, 3 KOs) kept his unbeaten pro record intact with a fourth-round knockout of a game Ezera Rabin.
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Kingsley Ibeh gets 59-second KO
Kingsley Ibeh KO1 Jack May... Nigerian heavyweight Kingsley "The Black Lion” Ibeh (14-2-1, 12 KOs) needed just 59 seconds to knock out Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-1, 9 KOs) on a Toro Promotions show at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. There was no “feeling out” period as the 6’4”, 273-pound Ibeh and the 6’8”, 257-pound May traded bombs from the opening bell. Suddenly, Ibeh landed a powerful left cross on May, who was up against the ropes, and “The Outlaw” went down hard, and did not get up before the ten count. Ibeh, fighting out of Phoenix, weighed 7 pounds less than he did for his last fight, 16 fewer than he weighed four fights ago, and the former professional Canadian Football League player won his ninth fight in a row. “The Black Lion” is the cousin of the retired former heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The crowd of 2,000 sold out the venue one week in advance. In the co-feature, hometown favorite Marquice Weston (16-4-1, 9 KOs) registered a first-round stoppage of heavyweight John Shipman (5-8, 2 KOs) by way of a body shot. It was Weston’s first victory in six years.
Haitian-born lightweight Nesley Trezile (1-1) notched his first pro win in a mild upset with a four-round majority decision over local fighter Agustin Tovar (2-1, 0 KOs). Trezile fights out of Los Angeles.
There was almost an upset as Antonio Louis “Tswervo” Hernandez (7-19-4, 4 KOs) gave Juan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0-2, 7 KOs) everything he could handle in their six-round match. Hernandez landed clean shots on Barajas, who was coming off a four-year layoff. Barajas closed the fight strongly, but it wasn’t enough as the judges scored the fight a majority draw.
Illinois junior welterweight Quinn McKenna (1-0-1, 0 KOs) won his first fight as a pro, taking a four-round unanimous decision from Clayton Hibbert (2-3, 2 KOs). Both fighters were hurt in round three as they opened up offensively, leaving both seemingly out on their feet. McKenna, however, was the fresher fighter in the fourth and final round. He had Hibbert on the run to earn his initial victory.
Russian lightweight Samvel Gandilyan (5-0-1, 3 KOs) kept his unbeaten pro record intact with a fourth-round knockout of a game Ezera Rabin.
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Olympic champ Zoirov wins split decision |
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Shakhobidin Zoirov W8 Samuel Carmona... In Vienna, Uzbekistan’s Shakhobidin Zoirov had his arm raised at the end of a very close encounter with Samuel Carmona of Spain in the bantamweight division. Zoirov won gold medals at the 2016 Summer Olympics and the 2019 World Championships, both in the flyweight division. But Carmona was aggressive from the start, startling Zoirov into a position of retreat. While Carmona maintained this stance for most of the first four rounds, the Uzbek returned the favor, coming forward more often and finding ways to manage the deep crouch behind the guard adopted by the Spaniard. Zoirov’s best work could be seen in the sixth round where combination punches delivered, and the momentum would swing towards him. Little seemed to separate the duo and that was reflected in the judges’ scores – a split decision would go the way of Zoirov (10-0 including the World Series of Boxing).
Ahmed Hagag W8 Vadan Babic ... Fighting in Vienna, his hometown, Ahmed Hagag claimed victory in the main event of IBA Champions’ Night, defeating Serbia’s Vadan Babic in the cruiserweight division. The Austrian overcame his opponent during eight hard-fought rounds at the Hilton Park Hotel. Hagag, nimbler on his feet, looked to come in on the attack and retreat, while Babic relied more on brute force. Two tough punches in the second round saw the Austrian sporting a cut that required medical treatment, but still the match continued. The Serbian Babic, the more experienced of the pair, continued to look confident in his pursuit and landed a sharp right hand in the fifth round to a tiring Hagag. He hunted the home favorite down again and again, as the Austrian tried to bide his time in a clinch. With two rounds left of the eight-round fight to go, both athletes were working against exhaustion, but crucially – it was Hagag who would pick up the points throughout the match, leading to a win.
Jakhongir Zokirov TKO1 Fabio Kaciu ... Heavyweight Jakhongir Zokirov’s win against Fabio Kaciu from Albania was very straightforward, after his opponent retired with an elbow injury two minutes into the bout. Zokirov is now 3-0. The end came shortly after the Uzbek boxer packed punches to bacl Kaciu against the ropes in the early stages of the first round. It may have been a pre-existing injury. The Uzbekistani Zokirov is a heavyweight prospect to watch. He's a 6'7" southpaw, just 21 years old. Kaciu is now 6-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Democratic Republic of Congo’s Sumbu Nsasi won his super middleweight match with Lulzim Ismaili from North Macedonia, ending during the fifth of six rounds. Nsasi was unforgiving from the start, pummeling his foe as Ismaili tried to maintain contact and a chance of staying in the competition. A fantastic left hand to the body in the fifth round would signal the end for Ismaili, who turned away to the corner, deciding not to answer the count of the referee. As a result, Nsasi was determined the winner, celebrating in style by dancing around the ring.
Yoel Finol continued his great form at IBA Champions’ Night, defeating Samat Zhetibayev from Kazakhstan in the bantamweight division. Finol’s eye-catching maneuvers and fast footwork was the tale of the bout, stringing together several punches without time for the Kazakh to compose himself. When the speed increased, it caused Zhetibayev to face a great amount of punishment. What looked like an attempt at baiting his opponent, Finol took hits to the head unprotected, but quickly duped Zhetibayev into leaving the door open for relentless offense. To the Kazakh’s credit, he remained upright despite several hooks to the head in round seven, but the verdict was only going one way – to the Venezuelan.
In the first match of the night, Croatia’s Sara Beram defeated Lithuania’s Ana Starovoitova in the women’s junior welrerweight division. After opening rounds being more of a feeling-out process, action became more animated in the third round. While Starovoitova had more success then, the following round saw response from Beram, who caught the Lithuanian with her guard down. Understanding the contest could be decided by a great moment of class in the final two rounds, both returned to testing each other out. Starovoitova from the back foot was unable to match the front-footed Beram, who claimed the victory.
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Olympic champ Zoirov wins split decision
Shakhobidin Zoirov W8 Samuel Carmona... In Vienna, Uzbekistan’s Shakhobidin Zoirov had his arm raised at the end of a very close encounter with Samuel Carmona of Spain in the bantamweight division. Zoirov won gold medals at the 2016 Summer Olympics and the 2019 World Championships, both in the flyweight division. But Carmona was aggressive from the start, startling Zoirov into a position of retreat. While Carmona maintained this stance for most of the first four rounds, the Uzbek returned the favor, coming forward more often and finding ways to manage the deep crouch behind the guard adopted by the Spaniard. Zoirov’s best work could be seen in the sixth round where combination punches delivered, and the momentum would swing towards him. Little seemed to separate the duo and that was reflected in the judges’ scores – a split decision would go the way of Zoirov (10-0 including the World Series of Boxing).
Ahmed Hagag W8 Vadan Babic ... Fighting in Vienna, his hometown, Ahmed Hagag claimed victory in the main event of IBA Champions’ Night, defeating Serbia’s Vadan Babic in the cruiserweight division. The Austrian overcame his opponent during eight hard-fought rounds at the Hilton Park Hotel. Hagag, nimbler on his feet, looked to come in on the attack and retreat, while Babic relied more on brute force. Two tough punches in the second round saw the Austrian sporting a cut that required medical treatment, but still the match continued. The Serbian Babic, the more experienced of the pair, continued to look confident in his pursuit and landed a sharp right hand in the fifth round to a tiring Hagag. He hunted the home favorite down again and again, as the Austrian tried to bide his time in a clinch. With two rounds left of the eight-round fight to go, both athletes were working against exhaustion, but crucially – it was Hagag who would pick up the points throughout the match, leading to a win.
Jakhongir Zokirov TKO1 Fabio Kaciu ... Heavyweight Jakhongir Zokirov’s win against Fabio Kaciu from Albania was very straightforward, after his opponent retired with an elbow injury two minutes into the bout. Zokirov is now 3-0. The end came shortly after the Uzbek boxer packed punches to bacl Kaciu against the ropes in the early stages of the first round. It may have been a pre-existing injury. The Uzbekistani Zokirov is a heavyweight prospect to watch. He's a 6'7" southpaw, just 21 years old. Kaciu is now 6-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Democratic Republic of Congo’s Sumbu Nsasi won his super middleweight match with Lulzim Ismaili from North Macedonia, ending during the fifth of six rounds. Nsasi was unforgiving from the start, pummeling his foe as Ismaili tried to maintain contact and a chance of staying in the competition. A fantastic left hand to the body in the fifth round would signal the end for Ismaili, who turned away to the corner, deciding not to answer the count of the referee. As a result, Nsasi was determined the winner, celebrating in style by dancing around the ring.
Yoel Finol continued his great form at IBA Champions’ Night, defeating Samat Zhetibayev from Kazakhstan in the bantamweight division. Finol’s eye-catching maneuvers and fast footwork was the tale of the bout, stringing together several punches without time for the Kazakh to compose himself. When the speed increased, it caused Zhetibayev to face a great amount of punishment. What looked like an attempt at baiting his opponent, Finol took hits to the head unprotected, but quickly duped Zhetibayev into leaving the door open for relentless offense. To the Kazakh’s credit, he remained upright despite several hooks to the head in round seven, but the verdict was only going one way – to the Venezuelan.
In the first match of the night, Croatia’s Sara Beram defeated Lithuania’s Ana Starovoitova in the women’s junior welrerweight division. After opening rounds being more of a feeling-out process, action became more animated in the third round. While Starovoitova had more success then, the following round saw response from Beram, who caught the Lithuanian with her guard down. Understanding the contest could be decided by a great moment of class in the final two rounds, both returned to testing each other out. Starovoitova from the back foot was unable to match the front-footed Beram, who claimed the victory.
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Undercard results from Ufa, Russia |
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Artur Subkhankulov W10 Liu Wensong ... Junior lightweight Artur Subkhankulov (7-3 in the World Series of Boxing) extended his professional winning streak to seven with a victory over China’s Liu Wensong (11-4-1) on the undercard in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia. Subkhankulov made it third time lucky, winning again in his hometown of Ufa, after previous IBA Champions’ Night defeats of Roland Galos and James Chereji. This time, he piled pressure on Liu, where cracks finally started to show in the fifth round as the Chinese boxer was ducking with lethargy. Subkhankulov, still climbing the professional ranks, had only gone the whole ten rounds once before and again, managed the challenge well, having his arm raised in victory at the end.
Welterweight Danis Gabdrafikov was given a great challenge in Jean Junior Messe Elime from Cameroon over six rounds. Gabdrafikov was active, but messy on defense, which Elime was able to take advantage of and punish his foe. Little separated the pair in a fiery six-round affair, and on the scorecards, one would be on the side of luck, and one would be considered an unlucky loser. A split decision went the way of Gabdrafikov. Elime would not have his arm raised, but he could hold his head high after his performance.
Azalia Amineva was victorious in the women’s welterweight division, defeating India’s Raj Sahiba. Sahiba picked up solid shots on the backfoot, but the aggression of Amineva was more noticeable and more successful. The more the fight wore on, the more comfortable the Russian looked and saw out the six-round contest to a unanimous decision verdict.
In the opening match of the night, Namibia's Immanuel Josef (16-4-1) won a technical decision in a flyweight bout against Vasily Egorov (4-2 including the Word Series of Boxing). The latter started well and Josef, knowing he had to make up points, fought back well to keep the contest fairly level at the halfway stage. A head clash came in the seventh, with the Russian unable to continue due to injury. With the judges’ scorecards taken into account after six full rounds, it was the Namibian who was given the nod.
FEATURED BOUTS
Muslim Gadzhimagomedov W12 Leon Harth... In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. Now 22-6-1, Harth has fought as 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd. Official scores were not read in English, but the WBA later confirmed it was a shoutout, thjree scores of 120-108, for Gadzhimagomedov (5-0). A two-time world amateur champion, Gadzhimagomedov claimed the vacant WBA title in July via a TKO victory over Zhaoxin Zhang from China. Harth fought for the same title late in 2023 against Evgeny Tischenko. That fight, originally a loss for Harth, was changed to a no contest due to a positive doping test for Tischenko. Albert Batyrgaziev TKO5 Albert Pagara... In the main event, Russia Albert Batyrgaziev easily defeated Albert Pagara from the Philippines in a 60 kilogram (roughly 132 pounds) bout. Pagara, who turned pro as a super flyweight, was too small, but more importantly, did not appear to be fully healthy. After four one-sided rounds, Pagara failed to come out for the fifth round, grimacing on his stool with an apparently pre-existing left arm injury. Batyrgaziev (11-0) is recognized as the WBA interim champion at 130 pounds and the IBA champion at 60 kg. Pagara is now 35-2 but that record is misleading.
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Undercard results from Ufa, Russia
Artur Subkhankulov W10 Liu Wensong ... Junior lightweight Artur Subkhankulov (7-3 in the World Series of Boxing) extended his professional winning streak to seven with a victory over China’s Liu Wensong (11-4-1) on the undercard in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia. Subkhankulov made it third time lucky, winning again in his hometown of Ufa, after previous IBA Champions’ Night defeats of Roland Galos and James Chereji. This time, he piled pressure on Liu, where cracks finally started to show in the fifth round as the Chinese boxer was ducking with lethargy. Subkhankulov, still climbing the professional ranks, had only gone the whole ten rounds once before and again, managed the challenge well, having his arm raised in victory at the end.
Welterweight Danis Gabdrafikov was given a great challenge in Jean Junior Messe Elime from Cameroon over six rounds. Gabdrafikov was active, but messy on defense, which Elime was able to take advantage of and punish his foe. Little separated the pair in a fiery six-round affair, and on the scorecards, one would be on the side of luck, and one would be considered an unlucky loser. A split decision went the way of Gabdrafikov. Elime would not have his arm raised, but he could hold his head high after his performance.
Azalia Amineva was victorious in the women’s welterweight division, defeating India’s Raj Sahiba. Sahiba picked up solid shots on the backfoot, but the aggression of Amineva was more noticeable and more successful. The more the fight wore on, the more comfortable the Russian looked and saw out the six-round contest to a unanimous decision verdict.
In the opening match of the night, Namibia's Immanuel Josef (16-4-1) won a technical decision in a flyweight bout against Vasily Egorov (4-2 including the Word Series of Boxing). The latter started well and Josef, knowing he had to make up points, fought back well to keep the contest fairly level at the halfway stage. A head clash came in the seventh, with the Russian unable to continue due to injury. With the judges’ scorecards taken into account after six full rounds, it was the Namibian who was given the nod.
FEATURED BOUTS
Muslim Gadzhimagomedov W12 Leon Harth... In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. Now 22-6-1, Harth has fought as 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd. Official scores were not read in English, but the WBA later confirmed it was a shoutout, thjree scores of 120-108, for Gadzhimagomedov (5-0). A two-time world amateur champion, Gadzhimagomedov claimed the vacant WBA title in July via a TKO victory over Zhaoxin Zhang from China. Harth fought for the same title late in 2023 against Evgeny Tischenko. That fight, originally a loss for Harth, was changed to a no contest due to a positive doping test for Tischenko. Albert Batyrgaziev TKO5 Albert Pagara... In the main event, Russia Albert Batyrgaziev easily defeated Albert Pagara from the Philippines in a 60 kilogram (roughly 132 pounds) bout. Pagara, who turned pro as a super flyweight, was too small, but more importantly, did not appear to be fully healthy. After four one-sided rounds, Pagara failed to come out for the fifth round, grimacing on his stool with an apparently pre-existing left arm injury. Batyrgaziev (11-0) is recognized as the WBA interim champion at 130 pounds and the IBA champion at 60 kg. Pagara is now 35-2 but that record is misleading.
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Ngannou returns to MMA and becomes PFL champion |
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Francis Ngannou, considered the lineal heavyweight champion in MMA, returned to the sport for his first MMA action since 2022 and defeated Brazil's Renan Ferreira in the first round to win the PFL heavyweight championship. Ngannou has a powerful story that saw him flee Cameroon to pursue a career in boxing. Fernand Lopez, however, convinced him to give MMA a try. That decision proved to be worthwhile, as he becamew the UFC heavyweight champion. After leaving the UFC organization, Ngannou went on to compete in a pair of boxing fights after signing with PFL. Though he lost to both Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, he managed to drop Fury, the then-WBC heavyweight champion. On Saturday, Ngannou returned to MMA for the first time since January 2022, now with UFC's rival, the PFL (Professional Fighters League). He was matched against Ferreira, who reached the top of the PFL in the 2023 season. After a no-contest against Rizvan Kuniev, Ferreira defeated Matheus Scheffel, Maurice Greene and Denis Goltsov – knocking out all three – to win the 2023 PFL Heavyweight Championship. Then, Ferreira earned the opportunity to fight Ngannou with a first-round knockout of Bellator heavyweight champion Ryan Bader in under a minute. Here is PFL's account of how Saturday's Ngannou-Ferreira fight played out:
Round 1
The two meet in the center. Low kick from Ngannou. A low kick from Ferreira. Leg kick from Ngannou. Low kick from Ngannou, and Ferreira narrowly misses a left hand. Strong right hand from Ngannou. Ngannou shoots in and scores a takedown. Short left hand from Ngannou. Ngannou looking to do work. Ferreira suddenly throws up his legs for a triangle choke attempt! Ngannou gets his head out as the referee warns Ferreira for having his toes in the fence. Ngannou does work with the left hand. Ngannou postures up with ground-and-pound! Ferreira goes to his stomach and covers up. Ngannou positioning himself, and he gets back to the flurry of shots! Ferreira is out! The fight is over!
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Ngannou returns to MMA and becomes PFL champion
Francis Ngannou, considered the lineal heavyweight champion in MMA, returned to the sport for his first MMA action since 2022 and defeated Brazil's Renan Ferreira in the first round to win the PFL heavyweight championship. Ngannou has a powerful story that saw him flee Cameroon to pursue a career in boxing. Fernand Lopez, however, convinced him to give MMA a try. That decision proved to be worthwhile, as he becamew the UFC heavyweight champion. After leaving the UFC organization, Ngannou went on to compete in a pair of boxing fights after signing with PFL. Though he lost to both Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, he managed to drop Fury, the then-WBC heavyweight champion. On Saturday, Ngannou returned to MMA for the first time since January 2022, now with UFC's rival, the PFL (Professional Fighters League). He was matched against Ferreira, who reached the top of the PFL in the 2023 season. After a no-contest against Rizvan Kuniev, Ferreira defeated Matheus Scheffel, Maurice Greene and Denis Goltsov – knocking out all three – to win the 2023 PFL Heavyweight Championship. Then, Ferreira earned the opportunity to fight Ngannou with a first-round knockout of Bellator heavyweight champion Ryan Bader in under a minute. Here is PFL's account of how Saturday's Ngannou-Ferreira fight played out:
Round 1
The two meet in the center. Low kick from Ngannou. A low kick from Ferreira. Leg kick from Ngannou. Low kick from Ngannou, and Ferreira narrowly misses a left hand. Strong right hand from Ngannou. Ngannou shoots in and scores a takedown. Short left hand from Ngannou. Ngannou looking to do work. Ferreira suddenly throws up his legs for a triangle choke attempt! Ngannou gets his head out as the referee warns Ferreira for having his toes in the fence. Ngannou does work with the left hand. Ngannou postures up with ground-and-pound! Ferreira goes to his stomach and covers up. Ngannou positioning himself, and he gets back to the flurry of shots! Ferreira is out! The fight is over!
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Watch: Murtazaliev destroys Tszyu |
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Bakhram Murtazaliev TKO3 Tim Tszyu ... Undefeated IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev dropped former WBO champion Tim Tszyu four times on his way to a third-round stoppage in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions show on Saturday at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. After winning the title in his opponent’s home territory of Germany earlier this year, Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) made a statement by dropping Tszyu (24-2, 17 KOs) early and often on his way to the dominant stoppage. The first knockdown came in round two with a strong counter left hook sending Tszyu to the canvas. Tszyu showed the grit that’s made him a star in his native Australia to rise to his feet, but was ultimately sent back to the ground two more times in the round. The fight continued after the third knockdown until Tzyu's corner surrendered by throwing in the towel.
"We just worked on these combinations all the time and when the fight came, it was automatic,” said Murtazaliev, who is from Grozny, Russia. “We worked for 10 weeks on those punches that hurt him. We created opportunities and we believed that we could win this fight.”
Continuing to press forward and look for moments in round three, Murtazaliev landed another vicious counter left hand that scored him his fourth knockdown in less than three rounds. While Tszyu continued to battle back, the onslaught from Murtazaliev proved to be too much as Tszyu’s corner threw in the towel, ending the fight 1:55 into the round.
"When I landed that first big shot, I knew how hard it was,” said Murtazaliev. “Tszyu is a real warrior and I hope one day we can work together and spar and help each other to grow."
"Every time I step into the ring I leave it all in there,” said Tszyu. “Things didn't go to plan and the better man won tonight. No excuses. After the first shot, things started not going according to plan. That's part of boxing, you get hit and reactions get slower. Bakhram is the man at 154."
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Watch: Murtazaliev destroys Tszyu
Bakhram Murtazaliev TKO3 Tim Tszyu ... Undefeated IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev dropped former WBO champion Tim Tszyu four times on his way to a third-round stoppage in the main event of a Premier Boxing Champions show on Saturday at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. After winning the title in his opponent’s home territory of Germany earlier this year, Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) made a statement by dropping Tszyu (24-2, 17 KOs) early and often on his way to the dominant stoppage. The first knockdown came in round two with a strong counter left hook sending Tszyu to the canvas. Tszyu showed the grit that’s made him a star in his native Australia to rise to his feet, but was ultimately sent back to the ground two more times in the round. The fight continued after the third knockdown until Tzyu's corner surrendered by throwing in the towel.
"We just worked on these combinations all the time and when the fight came, it was automatic,” said Murtazaliev, who is from Grozny, Russia. “We worked for 10 weeks on those punches that hurt him. We created opportunities and we believed that we could win this fight.”
Continuing to press forward and look for moments in round three, Murtazaliev landed another vicious counter left hand that scored him his fourth knockdown in less than three rounds. While Tszyu continued to battle back, the onslaught from Murtazaliev proved to be too much as Tszyu’s corner threw in the towel, ending the fight 1:55 into the round.
"When I landed that first big shot, I knew how hard it was,” said Murtazaliev. “Tszyu is a real warrior and I hope one day we can work together and spar and help each other to grow."
"Every time I step into the ring I leave it all in there,” said Tszyu. “Things didn't go to plan and the better man won tonight. No excuses. After the first shot, things started not going according to plan. That's part of boxing, you get hit and reactions get slower. Bakhram is the man at 154."
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They stripped Canelo for this? Scull claims IBF belt |
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William Scull W12 Vladimir Shishkin... German-based Cuban William Scull did not impress anyone, but nonetheless won the vacant IBF super middleweight title that was recently stripped away from the true world champion, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Scull stumbled all around the ring in the twelfth round but survived Vladimir Shishkin's late rally to take home a unanimous decision. The official scores were 116-113, 116-112 and 115-113. The bout took place in Scull's adopted home of Germany. Scull is now 23-0 while the Russian Shishkin falls to 17-1 including the World Series of Boxing.
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They stripped Canelo for this? Scull claims IBF belt
William Scull W12 Vladimir Shishkin... German-based Cuban William Scull did not impress anyone, but nonetheless won the vacant IBF super middleweight title that was recently stripped away from the true world champion, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Scull stumbled all around the ring in the twelfth round but survived Vladimir Shishkin's late rally to take home a unanimous decision. The official scores were 116-113, 116-112 and 115-113. The bout took place in Scull's adopted home of Germany. Scull is now 23-0 while the Russian Shishkin falls to 17-1 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Yoenis Tellez continues to shine |
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Yoenis Tellez TKO7 Johan Gonzalez ... In the Premier Boxing Champions co-feature in Orlando, Florida, rising Cuban junior middleweight Yoenis Tellez (9-0, 7 KOs) scored a dominant seventh-round stoppage of Johan Gonzalez (35-4, 34 KOs). Tellez dropped Gonzalez three times in the final two rounds, to earn a stoppage victory at 1:57 of round seven. The 24 year-old Tellez now trains in Stafford, Texas under the tutelage of Ronnie Shields and showed his explosive tools in his fifth fight at the Caribe Royale Resort. While Tellez seemed in control throughout the early rounds, Gonzalez remained competitive and was eager to return fire. "We were facing a very experienced fighter with a great trainer in Ismael Salas, so I knew it would not be easy,” said Tellez. “I was just following the instructions of my corner so that I could get the win.”
Tellez’s power began to shine through beginning in round six as he delivered a blistering straight right hand that put Gonzalez down late in the round. Gonzalez rose to his feet and saw the bell for round seven, but was met with a picture perfect left hook that sent Gonzalez to the mat and nearly through the ropes. "The most important weapon I have is the will to become world champion and the motivation to make my country proud,” said Tellez. “Ever since I left my country, I've wanted to win for them.”
Gonzalez again showed his mettle to keep the fight going, but Tellez wasted little time connecting on another right hook that sent Gonzalez down and forced referee Emil Lombardi to wave off the bout. "I wasn't properly following what my corner told me to do and that's what cost me the fight,” said Gonzalez. “Tellez is a good fighter and a good prospect. I think I could have made the fight better for myself if I had been more disciplined."
"I’m here to fight and let my team take care of getting me big opportunities and great opponents,” said Tellez. “I'm willing to fight anybody."
Mateo Tapia D10 Endry Saavedra... Opening up action on Prime Video, unbeaten Mateo Tapia (17-0-1, 10 KOs) and the hard-charging Endry Saavedra (16-1-1, 13 KOs) fought to a majority draw in an explosive ten-round middleweight bout that saw both men hit the canvas. In the end, one judges’ score of 94-92 for Tapia was overruled by two scores of 93-93. The action first started heating up in round two, as Saavedra forced Tapia to the ropes and unloaded, connecting with a bruising right hand that put Tapia down in the last minute of the round. Tapia rose to his feet but Saavedra continued to stalk him around the ring and dropped him once again before the bell came to end the round.
"I thought I could have gotten him out of there because I'm a Mexican warrior,” said Saavedra. “I did everything I could and left everything in the ring. I was surprised he kept getting up, especially after the second knockdown. But he's a Mexican and he wasn't going to go out easily."
"He was getting me with some short shots on the inside and taking my legs and I just had to keep working him and stay in the fight,” said Tapia.
Saavedra appeared to be in control of the fight until round five when Tapia responded in electric fashion, blasting his opponent with a perfectly-timed counter right that sent him down. Saavedra appeared worse for wear in the couple of rounds after the knockdown, as Tapia was able to consistently find his offense and avoid return fire.
The tide turned back in Saavedra’s favor in round nine as he was able to close the distance on Tapia and stayed in his pocket before eventually wearing him down and forcing Tapia to the mat once again. Tapia showed heart to once again make it to the end of the round and landed several ferocious right hands on Saavedra in the final frame. Tapia won the final round on all three cards to earn the draw.
"I was prepared for ten hard rounds,” said Tapia. “I feel like it could have gone either way. It was a tough fight. I knew he was going to bring the fight and I just tried to take advantage when I had openings. I'm glad we could give the fans a great fight."
"Everyone saw the fight and I know the fans here believed that I won,” said Saavedra. “I can only do my job. The judges had to do theirs.”
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Yoenis Tellez continues to shine
Yoenis Tellez TKO7 Johan Gonzalez ... In the Premier Boxing Champions co-feature in Orlando, Florida, rising Cuban junior middleweight Yoenis Tellez (9-0, 7 KOs) scored a dominant seventh-round stoppage of Johan Gonzalez (35-4, 34 KOs). Tellez dropped Gonzalez three times in the final two rounds, to earn a stoppage victory at 1:57 of round seven. The 24 year-old Tellez now trains in Stafford, Texas under the tutelage of Ronnie Shields and showed his explosive tools in his fifth fight at the Caribe Royale Resort. While Tellez seemed in control throughout the early rounds, Gonzalez remained competitive and was eager to return fire. "We were facing a very experienced fighter with a great trainer in Ismael Salas, so I knew it would not be easy,” said Tellez. “I was just following the instructions of my corner so that I could get the win.”
Tellez’s power began to shine through beginning in round six as he delivered a blistering straight right hand that put Gonzalez down late in the round. Gonzalez rose to his feet and saw the bell for round seven, but was met with a picture perfect left hook that sent Gonzalez to the mat and nearly through the ropes. "The most important weapon I have is the will to become world champion and the motivation to make my country proud,” said Tellez. “Ever since I left my country, I've wanted to win for them.”
Gonzalez again showed his mettle to keep the fight going, but Tellez wasted little time connecting on another right hook that sent Gonzalez down and forced referee Emil Lombardi to wave off the bout. "I wasn't properly following what my corner told me to do and that's what cost me the fight,” said Gonzalez. “Tellez is a good fighter and a good prospect. I think I could have made the fight better for myself if I had been more disciplined."
"I’m here to fight and let my team take care of getting me big opportunities and great opponents,” said Tellez. “I'm willing to fight anybody."
Mateo Tapia D10 Endry Saavedra... Opening up action on Prime Video, unbeaten Mateo Tapia (17-0-1, 10 KOs) and the hard-charging Endry Saavedra (16-1-1, 13 KOs) fought to a majority draw in an explosive ten-round middleweight bout that saw both men hit the canvas. In the end, one judges’ score of 94-92 for Tapia was overruled by two scores of 93-93. The action first started heating up in round two, as Saavedra forced Tapia to the ropes and unloaded, connecting with a bruising right hand that put Tapia down in the last minute of the round. Tapia rose to his feet but Saavedra continued to stalk him around the ring and dropped him once again before the bell came to end the round.
"I thought I could have gotten him out of there because I'm a Mexican warrior,” said Saavedra. “I did everything I could and left everything in the ring. I was surprised he kept getting up, especially after the second knockdown. But he's a Mexican and he wasn't going to go out easily."
"He was getting me with some short shots on the inside and taking my legs and I just had to keep working him and stay in the fight,” said Tapia.
Saavedra appeared to be in control of the fight until round five when Tapia responded in electric fashion, blasting his opponent with a perfectly-timed counter right that sent him down. Saavedra appeared worse for wear in the couple of rounds after the knockdown, as Tapia was able to consistently find his offense and avoid return fire.
The tide turned back in Saavedra’s favor in round nine as he was able to close the distance on Tapia and stayed in his pocket before eventually wearing him down and forcing Tapia to the mat once again. Tapia showed heart to once again make it to the end of the round and landed several ferocious right hands on Saavedra in the final frame. Tapia won the final round on all three cards to earn the draw.
"I was prepared for ten hard rounds,” said Tapia. “I feel like it could have gone either way. It was a tough fight. I knew he was going to bring the fight and I just tried to take advantage when I had openings. I'm glad we could give the fans a great fight."
"Everyone saw the fight and I know the fans here believed that I won,” said Saavedra. “I can only do my job. The judges had to do theirs.”
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Undercard results from Orlando: Danier Pero win streak continues |
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Cuban heavyweight Dainier "The Fear" Pero (9-0, 7 KOs) delivered another winning performance, stopping Willie Jake Jr. (11-6-3, 5 KOs) with a third-round knockout on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev. The fight took place on tonight at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. From the opening bell, Pero displayed his power and precision, controlling the fight and landing heavy shots that gradually broke down Jake Jr.’s defense. Midway through the third round, a powerful right hand sent Jake Jr. to the canvas, sealing the victory for Pero in the scheduled eight-round bout.
"I felt strong and focused tonight," said Pero. "I knew I could break him down with my power, and I stuck to the game plan we developed in training. I’m glad I was able to finish the job in the third round and put on a good show for the fans here in Orlando. This win is another big step forward for me. Staying undefeated is important, but I want to keep improving and taking on tougher challenges. My goal is to get closer to a title shot, and I believe tonight showed that I’m ready for the next level."
"Dainier looked outstanding tonight,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra, who was pleased with Pero’s performance and is excited about the next chapter in his career. “He came in with a plan, executed it perfectly, and delivered a great knockout. We’re excited about what’s next for him, and we’ll be looking to step up the competition as he continues to prove himself as a top heavyweight prospect. His future is very bright, and we’re confident that he’s on track to become a serious contender in this division."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
In the junior lightweight division, Justin Viloria (7-0, 5 KOs) defeated Diuhl Olguin (16-41-7, 10 KOs) by TKO at the :40 mark of round seven...
Super bantamweight Gary Antonio Russell (20-1, 13 KOs) defeated Jaden Burnias (6-3-2, 4 KOs) by knockout at the 1:11 mark of round four...
Welterweight Mikey Garica (4-1, 3 KOs) defeated Carlos Aguilera (13-25, 6 KOs) by unanimous four-round decision. Aguilera was dropped with an overhand right and later with a right hook to the head. Scorecards read 40-34 by all judges in favor for Garcia...
Super bantamweight Ryan Lee Allen (11-8-1, 6 KOs) scored a major upset defeating Carlos Jackson (20-2, 13 KOs) by TKO at the 2:37 mark of round four and...
In a six-round super middleweight contest, Daniel Blancas (11-0, 5 KOs) defeated Marco Delgado (7-6-1, 5 KOs) by unanimous decision. Blancas was dropped in round six with an overhand right. The scorecards read 59-55 across the board for Blancas.
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Undercard results from Orlando: Danier Pero win streak continues
Cuban heavyweight Dainier "The Fear" Pero (9-0, 7 KOs) delivered another winning performance, stopping Willie Jake Jr. (11-6-3, 5 KOs) with a third-round knockout on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev. The fight took place on tonight at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. From the opening bell, Pero displayed his power and precision, controlling the fight and landing heavy shots that gradually broke down Jake Jr.’s defense. Midway through the third round, a powerful right hand sent Jake Jr. to the canvas, sealing the victory for Pero in the scheduled eight-round bout.
"I felt strong and focused tonight," said Pero. "I knew I could break him down with my power, and I stuck to the game plan we developed in training. I’m glad I was able to finish the job in the third round and put on a good show for the fans here in Orlando. This win is another big step forward for me. Staying undefeated is important, but I want to keep improving and taking on tougher challenges. My goal is to get closer to a title shot, and I believe tonight showed that I’m ready for the next level."
"Dainier looked outstanding tonight,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra, who was pleased with Pero’s performance and is excited about the next chapter in his career. “He came in with a plan, executed it perfectly, and delivered a great knockout. We’re excited about what’s next for him, and we’ll be looking to step up the competition as he continues to prove himself as a top heavyweight prospect. His future is very bright, and we’re confident that he’s on track to become a serious contender in this division."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
In the junior lightweight division, Justin Viloria (7-0, 5 KOs) defeated Diuhl Olguin (16-41-7, 10 KOs) by TKO at the :40 mark of round seven...
Super bantamweight Gary Antonio Russell (20-1, 13 KOs) defeated Jaden Burnias (6-3-2, 4 KOs) by knockout at the 1:11 mark of round four...
Welterweight Mikey Garica (4-1, 3 KOs) defeated Carlos Aguilera (13-25, 6 KOs) by unanimous four-round decision. Aguilera was dropped with an overhand right and later with a right hook to the head. Scorecards read 40-34 by all judges in favor for Garcia...
Super bantamweight Ryan Lee Allen (11-8-1, 6 KOs) scored a major upset defeating Carlos Jackson (20-2, 13 KOs) by TKO at the 2:37 mark of round four and...
In a six-round super middleweight contest, Daniel Blancas (11-0, 5 KOs) defeated Marco Delgado (7-6-1, 5 KOs) by unanimous decision. Blancas was dropped in round six with an overhand right. The scorecards read 59-55 across the board for Blancas.
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Saudis to sponsor Boxxer |
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Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority, today announced a major new partnership between Riyadh Season and boxing promoter, Boxxer, starting with the ‘High Voltage’ event at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday night (October 19th) headlined by Adam Azim and Ohara Davies. The partnership sees Riyadh Season become Official Partner of all upcoming Boxxer events in the UK and Ireland with integrations into pre-promotional activity in the build-up to every show and as part of fight night.
The collaboration brings together two entities with a shared vision of innovation and the growth of boxing globally. Riyadh Season has transformed the sport in the past twelve months and this new partnership with Boxxer is further evidence of its commitment to the future of boxing, with support for spectacular fight nights that entertain audiences in the UK & Ireland and internationally.
Founded in 2018 by Ben Shalom, Boxxer has grown rapidly to become one of the world’s leading boxing promotions in just a few years. Boxxer events air LIVE and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, with a fast-expanding international footprint of 150+ territories globally including a broadcast partnership with NBC in the USA.
Boxxer is home to a world-class stable of fighters featuring world champions, fan-favourites, Olympic medallists and unbeaten contenders in both the men’s and women’s sport.
Ben Shalom, Founder & CEO, Boxxer, said: “We are honoured to partner with Riyadh Season and support His Excellency Turki Alashikh’s vision for boxing. Last Saturday’s opening show was nothing short of spectacular and we look forward to shining a bright light on all of the upcoming events. Ahead of a series of Boxxer events to be announced in the next fortnight, the partnership starts now with another huge night for British boxing on Sky Sports this Saturday when young superstar Adam Azim will take on the dangerous Ohara Davies. There’s much more to come from Boxxer and Riyadh Season and we look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
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Saudis to sponsor Boxxer
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority, today announced a major new partnership between Riyadh Season and boxing promoter, Boxxer, starting with the ‘High Voltage’ event at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday night (October 19th) headlined by Adam Azim and Ohara Davies. The partnership sees Riyadh Season become Official Partner of all upcoming Boxxer events in the UK and Ireland with integrations into pre-promotional activity in the build-up to every show and as part of fight night.
The collaboration brings together two entities with a shared vision of innovation and the growth of boxing globally. Riyadh Season has transformed the sport in the past twelve months and this new partnership with Boxxer is further evidence of its commitment to the future of boxing, with support for spectacular fight nights that entertain audiences in the UK & Ireland and internationally.
Founded in 2018 by Ben Shalom, Boxxer has grown rapidly to become one of the world’s leading boxing promotions in just a few years. Boxxer events air LIVE and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, with a fast-expanding international footprint of 150+ territories globally including a broadcast partnership with NBC in the USA.
Boxxer is home to a world-class stable of fighters featuring world champions, fan-favourites, Olympic medallists and unbeaten contenders in both the men’s and women’s sport.
Ben Shalom, Founder & CEO, Boxxer, said: “We are honoured to partner with Riyadh Season and support His Excellency Turki Alashikh’s vision for boxing. Last Saturday’s opening show was nothing short of spectacular and we look forward to shining a bright light on all of the upcoming events. Ahead of a series of Boxxer events to be announced in the next fortnight, the partnership starts now with another huge night for British boxing on Sky Sports this Saturday when young superstar Adam Azim will take on the dangerous Ohara Davies. There’s much more to come from Boxxer and Riyadh Season and we look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
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Updated history of the bridgerweight division |
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WBA / OCT. 17, 2024: In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov (5-0) retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. All three scorecards were 120-108. Now 22-6-1, Harth fought as a 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up in weight to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd.
WBC / OCT 8, 2024: The WBC received official confirmation that Lawrence Okolie has relinquished his WBC bridgerwieght championship in order to pursue his dream of becoming a heavyweight champion. The WBC also announced that interim champion Kevin Lerena has been elevated to become the new WBC bridgerwieght champion. Okolie, who has no fight scheduled but did not wish to fight Lerena, said, "After much consideration it is with a heavy heart that I have to unfortunately relinquish the WBC bridgerweight belt respectfully requesting to be rated in the top 5 in the heavyweight division.”
WBA / JULY 13, 2024: Russia’s Muslim Gadzhimagomedov defeated China’s Zhaoxin Zhang (12-3-1) to win the vacant WBA bridgerweight championship on Friday in Serpukhov, Russia. For the second straight fight, Zhang showed an extraordinary ability to absorb punishment, but there were no complaints when the referee stopped the bout in round five even with Zhang still on his feet. The title went vacant after former champion Evgeny Tishchenko tested positive for banned substances. Gadzhimagomedov (4-0) is a Tokyo (2021) Olympic silver medalist in the 201-pound divisions. He turned pro in 2021 and has measured himself against much more experienced opponents with relatively easy victories over all. Zhang (12-3-1) had won two of his last three fights, including a KO victory most recently over previously unbeaten Evgeny Romanov in a WBA eliminator that took place in Romanov's home country, Russia.
WBA / MAY 26, 2024: The WBA has stripped Evgeny Tischenko, its first bridgerweight champion, due to a positive doping test. On November 28, 2023, the WBA sanctioned Tishchenko and Leon Harth of Germany to fight for the newly created WBA 224-pound title. On December 9th, Tishchenko and Harth fought in Dubai, with Tishchenko winning by sixth-round technical knockout and gaining recognition as the champion, recognition that would prove to be unearned and short-lived. Two months later in Russia, Zhaoxin Zhang of China won an elimination bout to become Tischchenko's mandatory challenger. But on March 30th of this year, the Middle East Professional Boxing [Commission in] Dubai, United Arab Emirates notified the WBA that Tishchenko's “A” urine sample from December had tested positive for a banned substance, 2-Amino-5-Methylhexane. The result of the title fight was changed to a no contest. WBC / MAY 25, 2024: Great Britain's Lawrence Okolie knocked down Lukasz Rozanski three times in the opening round to win the WBC bridgerweight (224-pound) world title in Poland on Friday night. The fight was not really of world-level quality as Rozanski looked out of shape and generally awful, but the win technically makes Okolie a two-weight world champion. The British Okolie (20-1) reigned as the WBO 200-pound champion from 2021-2023. Keep in mind, the undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk weighed 223 pounds when defeating Tyson Fury last week, so there is really no dispute who is the world's best 224-pound boxer. MAY 19, 2024: Although not a bridgerweight fight, Oleksandr Usyk was 223 pounds, below the bridgerweight limit, when he made boxing history by becoming the first undisputed world heavyweight champion of the century. The Ukrainian Usyk outboxed Great Britain's Tyson Fury, although it was ruled a split decision. Boxingtalk scored it 115-112 for Usyk, who remains undefeated as a professional. Usyk was trailing at the midway point but turned the momentum back his way and knocked Fury down towards the end of round nine. Usyk added Fury's WBC heavyweight title to the WBA, WBO and IBF versions he previously owned. An Olympic gold medal winner as well as undisputed world champion at cruiserweight and now heavyweight, Usyk has to be considered an all-time great For those following the new bridgerweight division, Usyk must be considered the world's best.
FEB. 10, 2024... Unheralded Zhaoxin Zhang of China delivered a spectacular knockout against Evgeny Romanov on Saturday to win a WBA elimination bout in the bridgerweight (224-pound) division. Fighting on hostile turf in Yekaterinburg, Russia, Zhang ended the bout in only two rounds after a combination sent the Russian to the canvas in very bad condition. The referee did not allow the favored Romanov to continue despite him beating the ten count. But the fight was not easy for Zhang, who was punished from the first bell and looked vulnerable in the beginning of the fight. Zhang was knocked down by Romanov but he overcame that plus several cuts to his face to fight back and pull off the upset with a dramatic victory. Zhang now becomes the mandatory challenger to another Russian, Evgeny Tishchenko. Zhang puts himself on the boxing map with a record of 12-2-1 with 7 KOs. Romanov lost his undefeated record and is now 19-1 with 12 KOs.
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Updated history of the bridgerweight division
WBA / OCT. 17, 2024: In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov (5-0) retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. All three scorecards were 120-108. Now 22-6-1, Harth fought as a 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up in weight to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd.
WBC / OCT 8, 2024: The WBC received official confirmation that Lawrence Okolie has relinquished his WBC bridgerwieght championship in order to pursue his dream of becoming a heavyweight champion. The WBC also announced that interim champion Kevin Lerena has been elevated to become the new WBC bridgerwieght champion. Okolie, who has no fight scheduled but did not wish to fight Lerena, said, "After much consideration it is with a heavy heart that I have to unfortunately relinquish the WBC bridgerweight belt respectfully requesting to be rated in the top 5 in the heavyweight division.”
WBA / JULY 13, 2024: Russia’s Muslim Gadzhimagomedov defeated China’s Zhaoxin Zhang (12-3-1) to win the vacant WBA bridgerweight championship on Friday in Serpukhov, Russia. For the second straight fight, Zhang showed an extraordinary ability to absorb punishment, but there were no complaints when the referee stopped the bout in round five even with Zhang still on his feet. The title went vacant after former champion Evgeny Tishchenko tested positive for banned substances. Gadzhimagomedov (4-0) is a Tokyo (2021) Olympic silver medalist in the 201-pound divisions. He turned pro in 2021 and has measured himself against much more experienced opponents with relatively easy victories over all. Zhang (12-3-1) had won two of his last three fights, including a KO victory most recently over previously unbeaten Evgeny Romanov in a WBA eliminator that took place in Romanov's home country, Russia.
WBA / MAY 26, 2024: The WBA has stripped Evgeny Tischenko, its first bridgerweight champion, due to a positive doping test. On November 28, 2023, the WBA sanctioned Tishchenko and Leon Harth of Germany to fight for the newly created WBA 224-pound title. On December 9th, Tishchenko and Harth fought in Dubai, with Tishchenko winning by sixth-round technical knockout and gaining recognition as the champion, recognition that would prove to be unearned and short-lived. Two months later in Russia, Zhaoxin Zhang of China won an elimination bout to become Tischchenko's mandatory challenger. But on March 30th of this year, the Middle East Professional Boxing [Commission in] Dubai, United Arab Emirates notified the WBA that Tishchenko's “A” urine sample from December had tested positive for a banned substance, 2-Amino-5-Methylhexane. The result of the title fight was changed to a no contest. WBC / MAY 25, 2024: Great Britain's Lawrence Okolie knocked down Lukasz Rozanski three times in the opening round to win the WBC bridgerweight (224-pound) world title in Poland on Friday night. The fight was not really of world-level quality as Rozanski looked out of shape and generally awful, but the win technically makes Okolie a two-weight world champion. The British Okolie (20-1) reigned as the WBO 200-pound champion from 2021-2023. Keep in mind, the undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk weighed 223 pounds when defeating Tyson Fury last week, so there is really no dispute who is the world's best 224-pound boxer. MAY 19, 2024: Although not a bridgerweight fight, Oleksandr Usyk was 223 pounds, below the bridgerweight limit, when he made boxing history by becoming the first undisputed world heavyweight champion of the century. The Ukrainian Usyk outboxed Great Britain's Tyson Fury, although it was ruled a split decision. Boxingtalk scored it 115-112 for Usyk, who remains undefeated as a professional. Usyk was trailing at the midway point but turned the momentum back his way and knocked Fury down towards the end of round nine. Usyk added Fury's WBC heavyweight title to the WBA, WBO and IBF versions he previously owned. An Olympic gold medal winner as well as undisputed world champion at cruiserweight and now heavyweight, Usyk has to be considered an all-time great For those following the new bridgerweight division, Usyk must be considered the world's best.
FEB. 10, 2024... Unheralded Zhaoxin Zhang of China delivered a spectacular knockout against Evgeny Romanov on Saturday to win a WBA elimination bout in the bridgerweight (224-pound) division. Fighting on hostile turf in Yekaterinburg, Russia, Zhang ended the bout in only two rounds after a combination sent the Russian to the canvas in very bad condition. The referee did not allow the favored Romanov to continue despite him beating the ten count. But the fight was not easy for Zhang, who was punished from the first bell and looked vulnerable in the beginning of the fight. Zhang was knocked down by Romanov but he overcame that plus several cuts to his face to fight back and pull off the upset with a dramatic victory. Zhang now becomes the mandatory challenger to another Russian, Evgeny Tishchenko. Zhang puts himself on the boxing map with a record of 12-2-1 with 7 KOs. Romanov lost his undefeated record and is now 19-1 with 12 KOs.
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Murtazaliev and Tszyu both make weight |
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IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev defends his title today against Tim Tszyu of Australia in the twelve-round main event of a PBC on Prime Video broadcast at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The champion weighed in at 152.8 pounds, while Tszyu, who formerly held the WBO title, came in at 153.4.
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Murtazaliev and Tszyu both make weight
IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev defends his title today against Tim Tszyu of Australia in the twelve-round main event of a PBC on Prime Video broadcast at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The champion weighed in at 152.8 pounds, while Tszyu, who formerly held the WBO title, came in at 153.4.
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Weigh-in report from Tacoma, WA |
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On Friday, the weigh-in was held for today's (Saturday's) card in the EQC Event Center at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. The 6’ 4” Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs) and 6’ 8” Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-0, 9 KOs) headline in the ten-round main event. Tickets can be purchased at ticketsonsale.com or by calling (253) 594-7777. The official weights for the boxers were:
Kingsley Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs), Phoenix by way of Nigeria, 283.1 pounds -vs.- Jay May (10-0, 9 KOs), Chino Hills, CA 257.4 (ten rounds);
Juan Barajas (11-0-1, 7 KOs), Victorville, CA 168.5 -vs.- Antonio Louis Hernandez (7-19-3, 4 KOs), Kansas City, 169.6 (six rounds);
Marquice Weston (15-3-1, 8 KOs), Tacoma, WA 203.3 -vs.- John Shipman (5-7, 2 KOs), Dallas, TX 202 (six rounds);
Quinn McKenna (0-0-1), Naperville, IL 138.7 -vs.- Clayton Hibbert (2-2, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, 139.8 (four rounds);
Samvel Gandilyan (4-0-1, 2 KOs), Medvedovskaya 133.9 -vs.- Ezera Rabin (1-7, 1 KO), Oakland 136.6 (four rounds); and
Agustin Tovar (2-0, 0 KOs), Auburn, WA 135 -vs.- Nesley Trezile (0-1), California by way of Haiti 133.8.
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Weigh-in report from Tacoma, WA
On Friday, the weigh-in was held for today's (Saturday's) card in the EQC Event Center at the famed Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. The 6’ 4” Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs) and 6’ 8” Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-0, 9 KOs) headline in the ten-round main event. Tickets can be purchased at ticketsonsale.com or by calling (253) 594-7777. The official weights for the boxers were:
Kingsley Ibeh (12-2-1, 10 KOs), Phoenix by way of Nigeria, 283.1 pounds -vs.- Jay May (10-0, 9 KOs), Chino Hills, CA 257.4 (ten rounds);
Juan Barajas (11-0-1, 7 KOs), Victorville, CA 168.5 -vs.- Antonio Louis Hernandez (7-19-3, 4 KOs), Kansas City, 169.6 (six rounds);
Marquice Weston (15-3-1, 8 KOs), Tacoma, WA 203.3 -vs.- John Shipman (5-7, 2 KOs), Dallas, TX 202 (six rounds);
Quinn McKenna (0-0-1), Naperville, IL 138.7 -vs.- Clayton Hibbert (2-2, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, 139.8 (four rounds);
Samvel Gandilyan (4-0-1, 2 KOs), Medvedovskaya 133.9 -vs.- Ezera Rabin (1-7, 1 KO), Oakland 136.6 (four rounds); and
Agustin Tovar (2-0, 0 KOs), Auburn, WA 135 -vs.- Nesley Trezile (0-1), California by way of Haiti 133.8.
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Junior lightweight Roberto Gomez in action tonight |
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Junior lightweight Roberto Gomez (4-0, 2 KOs) from Dade City, Florida steps into the ring against Jenn Gonzalez (9-25-1, 5 KOs) of Nicaragua. The six-round bout will take place tonight (October, 19th) on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev main event at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video. Gomez is confident he will deliver an impressive performance. "Gonzalez is a veteran who’s been in the ring with a lot of tough guys, and I know he’ll bring that experience with him,” said Gomez. “I’ve been preparing for a hard fight, but I’m also ready to put on a show. I want to make sure everyone watching knows my name after this fight. I’m not just looking for a win—I’m looking to end this fight by knockout."
"Roberto Gomez is an exceptional talent, and every time he steps into the ring, he shows something special,’ said Amaury Piedra, president of Boxlab Promotions, who promotes Gomez. :We’re thrilled to have him as part of the Boxlab family, and we believe he has what it takes to become a real contender in the super featherweight division. This fight against Gonzalez is another milestone in his journey, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the challenge.”
Gomez will be fighting in front of his home state fans for the second time this year and is expected to have strong support from family and friends. "Fighting in front of the Florida fans means everything to me,” concluded Gomez. “I’m from Dade City, so I’ll have a lot of family and friends in the crowd. I’m going to feed off their energy and give them something to cheer about. Every fight is a chance to show what I can do, and I plan on showing that I have the skills to be one of the best in this division. This is the kind of night where memories are made, and I plan to leave a lasting impression. I want people to walk away from this fight talking about me.”
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Junior lightweight Roberto Gomez in action tonight
Junior lightweight Roberto Gomez (4-0, 2 KOs) from Dade City, Florida steps into the ring against Jenn Gonzalez (9-25-1, 5 KOs) of Nicaragua. The six-round bout will take place tonight (October, 19th) on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev main event at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando, Florida. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video. Gomez is confident he will deliver an impressive performance. "Gonzalez is a veteran who’s been in the ring with a lot of tough guys, and I know he’ll bring that experience with him,” said Gomez. “I’ve been preparing for a hard fight, but I’m also ready to put on a show. I want to make sure everyone watching knows my name after this fight. I’m not just looking for a win—I’m looking to end this fight by knockout."
"Roberto Gomez is an exceptional talent, and every time he steps into the ring, he shows something special,’ said Amaury Piedra, president of Boxlab Promotions, who promotes Gomez. :We’re thrilled to have him as part of the Boxlab family, and we believe he has what it takes to become a real contender in the super featherweight division. This fight against Gonzalez is another milestone in his journey, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the challenge.”
Gomez will be fighting in front of his home state fans for the second time this year and is expected to have strong support from family and friends. "Fighting in front of the Florida fans means everything to me,” concluded Gomez. “I’m from Dade City, so I’ll have a lot of family and friends in the crowd. I’m going to feed off their energy and give them something to cheer about. Every fight is a chance to show what I can do, and I plan on showing that I have the skills to be one of the best in this division. This is the kind of night where memories are made, and I plan to leave a lasting impression. I want people to walk away from this fight talking about me.”
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RDR show set for Philly next Saturday |
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RDR Promotions has a huge night of boxing scheduled for Harrahs Philadelphia on Saturday, October 26th. The main event will be a six-round welterweight bout between Nimal Farmer and undefeated Ghandi Romain. Farmer of Lindenwold, New Jersey is 6-0 with four knockouts. The 24 year-old Farmer is a two-year professional who took a unanimous decision from Maurice Clemons on August 24th in Philadelphia. Romain, age 27, is from Irvington, New Jersey. He is 5-1 with four knockouts, having won five in a row, which includes a unanimous decision over Dashaun Johns on September 7th in Carteret, New Jersey.
UNDERCARD
In six-round bouts, junior middleweight Ray Robinson (25-3-2, 13 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Andre Boyd (10-15-3, 1 KO) of Jacksonville, Florida...
Michael Lee (10-3, 7 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey takes on Nelson Morales (5-16, 2 KOs) of Scranton, PA, also at junior middleweight..
In four round bouts, 17 year-old Semaj Justice (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Ben Christopher Cook (0-2) of Essex, England in a bantamweight fight...
Frankie Lynn (4-0, 3 KOs) of Chester, PA takes on Antonio Allen (1-17-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout...
Philadelphia junior welterweight Devin Price (3-1, 2 KOs) squares off with Daniel McCall (0-5) of Stone Mountain, Georgia...
Lemar Smith (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on Jordan Drayton (0-2) of Brooklyn, New York, also at junior welterweight...
Undefeated heavyweights get it on as RDR Signee Shane Slocumb (1-0, 1 KO) fights Ali Ellis (5-0, 3 KOs) in a battle of Philadelphia-based fighters...
RDR signee Zaire Jefferson will make his pro debut against Rancey Slanger (1-0-1) of Levittown, PA in a light heavyweight fight...
RDR Signee Karl Wylie (1-0) of Coatesville, PA takes on deburring Claudio Hernandez of Marietta, Georgia at junior lightweight and...
Tyreem Haywood (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named , also at at junior lightweight.
Tickets can be purchased at rdrboxing@yahoo.com
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RDR show set for Philly next Saturday
RDR Promotions has a huge night of boxing scheduled for Harrahs Philadelphia on Saturday, October 26th. The main event will be a six-round welterweight bout between Nimal Farmer and undefeated Ghandi Romain. Farmer of Lindenwold, New Jersey is 6-0 with four knockouts. The 24 year-old Farmer is a two-year professional who took a unanimous decision from Maurice Clemons on August 24th in Philadelphia. Romain, age 27, is from Irvington, New Jersey. He is 5-1 with four knockouts, having won five in a row, which includes a unanimous decision over Dashaun Johns on September 7th in Carteret, New Jersey.
UNDERCARD
In six-round bouts, junior middleweight Ray Robinson (25-3-2, 13 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Andre Boyd (10-15-3, 1 KO) of Jacksonville, Florida...
Michael Lee (10-3, 7 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey takes on Nelson Morales (5-16, 2 KOs) of Scranton, PA, also at junior middleweight..
In four round bouts, 17 year-old Semaj Justice (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Ben Christopher Cook (0-2) of Essex, England in a bantamweight fight...
Frankie Lynn (4-0, 3 KOs) of Chester, PA takes on Antonio Allen (1-17-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout...
Philadelphia junior welterweight Devin Price (3-1, 2 KOs) squares off with Daniel McCall (0-5) of Stone Mountain, Georgia...
Lemar Smith (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on Jordan Drayton (0-2) of Brooklyn, New York, also at junior welterweight...
Undefeated heavyweights get it on as RDR Signee Shane Slocumb (1-0, 1 KO) fights Ali Ellis (5-0, 3 KOs) in a battle of Philadelphia-based fighters...
RDR signee Zaire Jefferson will make his pro debut against Rancey Slanger (1-0-1) of Levittown, PA in a light heavyweight fight...
RDR Signee Karl Wylie (1-0) of Coatesville, PA takes on deburring Claudio Hernandez of Marietta, Georgia at junior lightweight and...
Tyreem Haywood (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named , also at at junior lightweight.
Tickets can be purchased at rdrboxing@yahoo.com
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Undercard details for Massachusetts Oct. 25th show |
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CES Boxing’s ‘Halloween Knockout’ will be broadcast live worldwide in its entirety on the premium streaming platform DAZN. The action takes place on Friday, October 25th at the Oceanside Revere in Revere, Massachusetts. Headlining the card is welterweight contender "Speedy" Rashidi Ellis (24-1, 15 KOs) who will box at home for the first time in ten years against Argentina’s Brian Chaves (14-5, 5 KOs). Ellis, the fighting pride of Lynn, MA, is fresh off leading the Boston Butchers to the semi-finals of the Team Combat League’s second year. Rashidi was 11-1 during the season and faced several tough opponents, including Quadir Albright and Jahyae Brown. In Chaves, Ellis is battling an experienced fighter who has shared the ring with the likes of Chordale Booker, Vaughn Alexander and Jeremias Ponce.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
Marshfield, MA’s Joe Bush (4-0, 4 KOs) battles Alfred Raymond (2-10-13) in a welterweight slugfest....
Fan favorite Matt "The Mantis" Doherty (9-9-1, 5 KOs) of Danvers, MA, who will be in a firefight against Eric Palmer (15-18-5, 3 KOs).
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Undercard details for Massachusetts Oct. 25th show
CES Boxing’s ‘Halloween Knockout’ will be broadcast live worldwide in its entirety on the premium streaming platform DAZN. The action takes place on Friday, October 25th at the Oceanside Revere in Revere, Massachusetts. Headlining the card is welterweight contender "Speedy" Rashidi Ellis (24-1, 15 KOs) who will box at home for the first time in ten years against Argentina’s Brian Chaves (14-5, 5 KOs). Ellis, the fighting pride of Lynn, MA, is fresh off leading the Boston Butchers to the semi-finals of the Team Combat League’s second year. Rashidi was 11-1 during the season and faced several tough opponents, including Quadir Albright and Jahyae Brown. In Chaves, Ellis is battling an experienced fighter who has shared the ring with the likes of Chordale Booker, Vaughn Alexander and Jeremias Ponce.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
Marshfield, MA’s Joe Bush (4-0, 4 KOs) battles Alfred Raymond (2-10-13) in a welterweight slugfest....
Fan favorite Matt "The Mantis" Doherty (9-9-1, 5 KOs) of Danvers, MA, who will be in a firefight against Eric Palmer (15-18-5, 3 KOs).
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Scull vs. Shishkin to air on DAZN tomorrow |
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The vacant IBF world super middleweight title will be determined this weekend when William Scull takes on Vladimir Shishkin in Germany. Scull was the IBF mandatory challenger for Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, who held all four major championships from November 2021 until May 2024. Faced with multiple madnatory defenses, Alvarez decided to vacate the IBF belt in order to face WBA mandatory Edgar Berlanga. That set up Saturday's fight between Scull and IBF #2 contender Shishkin. Both men are undefeated and each will fight for a world title for the first time in what could be a career-defining bout for one of these fighters. DAZN will air Scull vs. Shishkin on Saturday, October 19th at 8 p.m. UK / 3 p.m. ET.
UNDERCARD
Dusan Veletic vs. Tomas Salek, heavyweights;
Paul Wall vs. Nourdeen Toure, junior middleweights; and
Sanel Hasanovic vs. Christian Demaj; heavyweights.
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Scull vs. Shishkin to air on DAZN tomorrow
The vacant IBF world super middleweight title will be determined this weekend when William Scull takes on Vladimir Shishkin in Germany. Scull was the IBF mandatory challenger for Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, who held all four major championships from November 2021 until May 2024. Faced with multiple madnatory defenses, Alvarez decided to vacate the IBF belt in order to face WBA mandatory Edgar Berlanga. That set up Saturday's fight between Scull and IBF #2 contender Shishkin. Both men are undefeated and each will fight for a world title for the first time in what could be a career-defining bout for one of these fighters. DAZN will air Scull vs. Shishkin on Saturday, October 19th at 8 p.m. UK / 3 p.m. ET.
UNDERCARD
Dusan Veletic vs. Tomas Salek, heavyweights;
Paul Wall vs. Nourdeen Toure, junior middleweights; and
Sanel Hasanovic vs. Christian Demaj; heavyweights.
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Dainier Pero to face Willie Jake on Saturday |
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Cuban heavyweight Dainier “The Fear” Pero (8-0, 6 KOs), is set to face Indianapolis native Willie Jake Jr. (11-5-2, 3 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight showdown tomorrow (Saturday) on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev event. The fight will take place at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, where Pero aims to continue his unbeaten streak. "Jake Jr. is a tough opponent, and I know he’ll come in with a lot of heart,” said Pero. “But I’ve been training hard, and I’m ready to show that I’m on another level. A win here keeps my name in the mix as one of the top heavyweights to watch. Training in Las Vegas with Coach Bob Santos has been a game changer for me. The work we put in has sharpened my skills and taken my conditioning to a new level. I’m feeling stronger, faster, and more prepared than ever for this fight."
"Dainier has shown incredible growth and maturity as a fighter, especially over the past few months training under Bob Santos,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra. “We’re excited to see him take the next step in his career against Willie Jake Jr. This fight will be another opportunity for him to display his skills and power on a big stage, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the occasion."
Since signing with Boxlab Promotions, Pero has become a fan favorite at the Caribe Royale Hotel, where he has fought his last three bouts, scoring knockouts in each bout. "The Caribe Royale has become like a second home to me, and I’m excited to be back fighting here in Orlando,” said Pero. “It’s always great to have the support of the local fans, and I’m looking forward to giving them another great performance. Building my brand in Orlando means a lot to me, and I plan to end the night early with a knockout.”
The October 19th card headlined by Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev can be seen live on PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video, as Pero looks to remain undefeated and move one step closer to his goal of becoming a heavyweight contender.
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Dainier Pero to face Willie Jake on Saturday
Cuban heavyweight Dainier “The Fear” Pero (8-0, 6 KOs), is set to face Indianapolis native Willie Jake Jr. (11-5-2, 3 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight showdown tomorrow (Saturday) on the undercard of the Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev event. The fight will take place at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, where Pero aims to continue his unbeaten streak. "Jake Jr. is a tough opponent, and I know he’ll come in with a lot of heart,” said Pero. “But I’ve been training hard, and I’m ready to show that I’m on another level. A win here keeps my name in the mix as one of the top heavyweights to watch. Training in Las Vegas with Coach Bob Santos has been a game changer for me. The work we put in has sharpened my skills and taken my conditioning to a new level. I’m feeling stronger, faster, and more prepared than ever for this fight."
"Dainier has shown incredible growth and maturity as a fighter, especially over the past few months training under Bob Santos,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra. “We’re excited to see him take the next step in his career against Willie Jake Jr. This fight will be another opportunity for him to display his skills and power on a big stage, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the occasion."
Since signing with Boxlab Promotions, Pero has become a fan favorite at the Caribe Royale Hotel, where he has fought his last three bouts, scoring knockouts in each bout. "The Caribe Royale has become like a second home to me, and I’m excited to be back fighting here in Orlando,” said Pero. “It’s always great to have the support of the local fans, and I’m looking forward to giving them another great performance. Building my brand in Orlando means a lot to me, and I plan to end the night early with a knockout.”
The October 19th card headlined by Tim Tszyu vs. Bakhram Murtazaliev can be seen live on PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video, as Pero looks to remain undefeated and move one step closer to his goal of becoming a heavyweight contender.
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IBF schedules purse bid for Marshall vs. Green |
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On September 10th, the IBF ordered its super middleweight champion, Savannah Marshall (pictured), and IBF mandatory contender Shadasia Green to begin negotiations for a championship fight. An agreement was not reached within the time frame set forth by IBF so the IBF has scheduled a purse bid for Tuesday, October 29th. Marshall (13-1) has not boxed since July of 2023 when she narrowly defeated Francon Crews-Dezurn for the four major titles. Marshall did, however, win a mixed martial arts fight earlier this year. Marhsall's inactivity has cost her the other three belts. Meanwhile Green (14-1) lost to Crews-Dezurn in December of 2023 but came back with one win since then.
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IBF schedules purse bid for Marshall vs. Green
On September 10th, the IBF ordered its super middleweight champion, Savannah Marshall (pictured), and IBF mandatory contender Shadasia Green to begin negotiations for a championship fight. An agreement was not reached within the time frame set forth by IBF so the IBF has scheduled a purse bid for Tuesday, October 29th. Marshall (13-1) has not boxed since July of 2023 when she narrowly defeated Francon Crews-Dezurn for the four major titles. Marshall did, however, win a mixed martial arts fight earlier this year. Marhsall's inactivity has cost her the other three belts. Meanwhile Green (14-1) lost to Crews-Dezurn in December of 2023 but came back with one win since then.
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Final presser quotes for Saturday's PBC on Prime show |
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IBF 154-pound champion Bakhram Murtazaliev and challenger Tim Tszyu went face to face on Thursday at the final press conference before they headline PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video action this Saturday, October 19th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The press conference also featured other boxers on the show, whoich starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT including undefeated Cuban Yoenis Tellez and knockout artist Johan Gonzalez, who meet in the ten-round junior middleweight co-feature, and undefeated middleweight Mateo Tapia and hard-hitting Endry Saavedra, who meet in the ten-round opening bout. The three-fight card streams exclusively on Prime Video for all Prime members in the United States and select countries. Join today or start a free 30-day trial to catch the championship card. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando:
TIM TSZYU
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Final presser quotes for Saturday's PBC on Prime show
IBF 154-pound champion Bakhram Murtazaliev and challenger Tim Tszyu went face to face on Thursday at the final press conference before they headline PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video action this Saturday, October 19th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The press conference also featured other boxers on the show, whoich starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT including undefeated Cuban Yoenis Tellez and knockout artist Johan Gonzalez, who meet in the ten-round junior middleweight co-feature, and undefeated middleweight Mateo Tapia and hard-hitting Endry Saavedra, who meet in the ten-round opening bout. The three-fight card streams exclusively on Prime Video for all Prime members in the United States and select countries. Join today or start a free 30-day trial to catch the championship card. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando:
TIM TSZYU
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Rashidi Ellis to headline CES show in Massachusetts |
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On Friday, October 25th, "Speedy" Rashidi Ellis (24-1, 15 KOs) headlines a seven-bout CES Boxing card near his hometown when he takes on Argentina’s Brian Chaves (14-5, 5 KOs). The action takes place at the Oceanside Revere in Revere, Massachusetts and will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. Tickets can be purchased at CESFights.com. The bout serves as a reintroduction of sorts for the 31 year-old welterweight. A native of Lynn, MA, Ellis has not fought in the Boston area since his fourth pro bout at the House of Blues in 2014. "It feels really good to fight at home," said an ecstatic Rashidi. "The last time I fought back home was over 10 years ago. People haven’t seen me fight here since I was a little kid. I’m a grown man now, and I’m going to work."
Rashidi’s career has been a long winding road that has led him back home, where he, his brother Ronald and his sister Rashida used to set up neighborhood boxing matches in their family basement as teens. Rashidi packed his bags at 21 and fought ten consecutive times in the Caribbean before signing a promotional agreement with Golden Boy Promotions in 2016. Linking up with a powerful promoter paid dividends at first, as Ellis quickly burst on the scene with a first-round knockout of then-highly regarded Eddie "E-Boy" Gomez. Three years and 5 fights later, Rashidi proved the first fight wasn’t a fluke when he virtually shutout Gomez over ten rounds.
The win set up a showdown of unbeaten prospects as Ellis faced Alexis Rocha in 2020. Rashidi was too slick, fast and smart for Rocha, winning a unanimous decision over 12 rounds. The sky seemed to be the limit, but instead of a world title shot, Ellis spent the next two and a half years on the shelf. "It’s no secret, they obviously wanted him to win," says Ellis when reflecting on what should have been a breakout win. "I was an East Coast boxer fighting on the West Coast, and I guess I wasn’t a priority for them."
After securing his release from Golden Boy in 2022, Ellis joined the PBC, where he quickly scored a first round TKO in his first bout. Rashidi was working his way to a title shot against Jaron "Boots" Ennis when he ran into Roiman Villa, a heavy-handed Venezuelan who was also hungry for a title shot. Rashidi started fast, utilizing his jab, feints and quick counters to pile up points against the slower Villa. By the mid to late rounds, the momentum shifted as the Venezuelan pressed forward, forcing Ellis into exchanges. Rashidi suffered two twelfth-round knockdowns, the second just before the final bell. With the knockdowns, Villa eked out a disputed majority decision.
"I don’t want to say that I have bad luck, but it’s something like that," laments Ellis when analyzing his career. "There were a lot of issues with contracts and fights falling through, and a lot of bullshit happening."
Returning to Lynn, Rashidi pondered what was next before running into Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. at a CES Boxing card. The promoter was looking for fighters to join the Boston Butchers, his newest venture as the General Manager of the Team Combat League franchise. "It was a good experience," says Rashidi, who won 11 of his 12 bouts and led the Butchers into the semi-finals in their inaugural season. "It was good for me because of the activity. We fought every few weeks and I loved it."
In addition to reestablishing himself on the Boston scene and shedding ring rust, Rashidi was able to gauge the type of person Burchfield is and the kind of organization he is running. "I got to see how they move and do things," explains Ellis of CES Boxing. "They seem like really good people. We connected on the TCL, so this came about."
As soon as the season was over, Burchfield went to work to secure Ellis a main event card in his hometown. "I’m looking to make a statement on October 25th because I’ve been away for a long time," says Ellis. "People overlook me because I haven’t been active. A lot of people don't know if I'm still in the sport, but I'm still here. I’m here to stay and I’m ready to take over. It's gonna be on DAZN, where I had my biggest wins against Eddie Gomez and Alexis Rocha, so that’s even better."
In front of him on October 25th will be Brian Chaves, a tough Argentine who has shared the ring with the likes of Chordale Booker, Vaughn Alexander and Jeremias Ponce. "Chaves is decent, but he's not good enough," says a confident Ellis. "He's good enough to put on a good show though."
Mapping out his future, Rashidi and CES have conjured up a clear 3-step plan to get him where he should have been all along. "Right now, I'm just focused on getting active," explains Ellis. "I want to get back in the rankings. Once I'm back in the rankings, I don't want to hear no excuses from these dudes. They’re going to have to fight me."
Asked which of the welterweight champions he prefers to fight first, Ellis answers emphatically. "I want to fight [WBO champion] Brian Norman," states Rashidi. "The only reason why I wanna beat him up is because his father was talking a lot of trash. Then I want the rest of them: Eimantis Stanionis [WBA] , Boots Ennis [IBF} and Mario Barrios [WBC]. I need those world titles. I'll be there real soon. I’m knocking on the door."
But first, Ellis needs to reacquaint himself with his hometown fans, and he plans to do so in spectacular fashion. "Make sure you guys come through," says Ellis of Halloween Knockout. "I’m going to put on a great show like I always do, and the whole card is packed with a lot of good fighters. It’s gonna be spooky!"
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Rashidi Ellis to headline CES show in Massachusetts
On Friday, October 25th, "Speedy" Rashidi Ellis (24-1, 15 KOs) headlines a seven-bout CES Boxing card near his hometown when he takes on Argentina’s Brian Chaves (14-5, 5 KOs). The action takes place at the Oceanside Revere in Revere, Massachusetts and will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. Tickets can be purchased at CESFights.com. The bout serves as a reintroduction of sorts for the 31 year-old welterweight. A native of Lynn, MA, Ellis has not fought in the Boston area since his fourth pro bout at the House of Blues in 2014. "It feels really good to fight at home," said an ecstatic Rashidi. "The last time I fought back home was over 10 years ago. People haven’t seen me fight here since I was a little kid. I’m a grown man now, and I’m going to work."
Rashidi’s career has been a long winding road that has led him back home, where he, his brother Ronald and his sister Rashida used to set up neighborhood boxing matches in their family basement as teens. Rashidi packed his bags at 21 and fought ten consecutive times in the Caribbean before signing a promotional agreement with Golden Boy Promotions in 2016. Linking up with a powerful promoter paid dividends at first, as Ellis quickly burst on the scene with a first-round knockout of then-highly regarded Eddie "E-Boy" Gomez. Three years and 5 fights later, Rashidi proved the first fight wasn’t a fluke when he virtually shutout Gomez over ten rounds.
The win set up a showdown of unbeaten prospects as Ellis faced Alexis Rocha in 2020. Rashidi was too slick, fast and smart for Rocha, winning a unanimous decision over 12 rounds. The sky seemed to be the limit, but instead of a world title shot, Ellis spent the next two and a half years on the shelf. "It’s no secret, they obviously wanted him to win," says Ellis when reflecting on what should have been a breakout win. "I was an East Coast boxer fighting on the West Coast, and I guess I wasn’t a priority for them."
After securing his release from Golden Boy in 2022, Ellis joined the PBC, where he quickly scored a first round TKO in his first bout. Rashidi was working his way to a title shot against Jaron "Boots" Ennis when he ran into Roiman Villa, a heavy-handed Venezuelan who was also hungry for a title shot. Rashidi started fast, utilizing his jab, feints and quick counters to pile up points against the slower Villa. By the mid to late rounds, the momentum shifted as the Venezuelan pressed forward, forcing Ellis into exchanges. Rashidi suffered two twelfth-round knockdowns, the second just before the final bell. With the knockdowns, Villa eked out a disputed majority decision.
"I don’t want to say that I have bad luck, but it’s something like that," laments Ellis when analyzing his career. "There were a lot of issues with contracts and fights falling through, and a lot of bullshit happening."
Returning to Lynn, Rashidi pondered what was next before running into Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. at a CES Boxing card. The promoter was looking for fighters to join the Boston Butchers, his newest venture as the General Manager of the Team Combat League franchise. "It was a good experience," says Rashidi, who won 11 of his 12 bouts and led the Butchers into the semi-finals in their inaugural season. "It was good for me because of the activity. We fought every few weeks and I loved it."
In addition to reestablishing himself on the Boston scene and shedding ring rust, Rashidi was able to gauge the type of person Burchfield is and the kind of organization he is running. "I got to see how they move and do things," explains Ellis of CES Boxing. "They seem like really good people. We connected on the TCL, so this came about."
As soon as the season was over, Burchfield went to work to secure Ellis a main event card in his hometown. "I’m looking to make a statement on October 25th because I’ve been away for a long time," says Ellis. "People overlook me because I haven’t been active. A lot of people don't know if I'm still in the sport, but I'm still here. I’m here to stay and I’m ready to take over. It's gonna be on DAZN, where I had my biggest wins against Eddie Gomez and Alexis Rocha, so that’s even better."
In front of him on October 25th will be Brian Chaves, a tough Argentine who has shared the ring with the likes of Chordale Booker, Vaughn Alexander and Jeremias Ponce. "Chaves is decent, but he's not good enough," says a confident Ellis. "He's good enough to put on a good show though."
Mapping out his future, Rashidi and CES have conjured up a clear 3-step plan to get him where he should have been all along. "Right now, I'm just focused on getting active," explains Ellis. "I want to get back in the rankings. Once I'm back in the rankings, I don't want to hear no excuses from these dudes. They’re going to have to fight me."
Asked which of the welterweight champions he prefers to fight first, Ellis answers emphatically. "I want to fight [WBO champion] Brian Norman," states Rashidi. "The only reason why I wanna beat him up is because his father was talking a lot of trash. Then I want the rest of them: Eimantis Stanionis [WBA] , Boots Ennis [IBF} and Mario Barrios [WBC]. I need those world titles. I'll be there real soon. I’m knocking on the door."
But first, Ellis needs to reacquaint himself with his hometown fans, and he plans to do so in spectacular fashion. "Make sure you guys come through," says Ellis of Halloween Knockout. "I’m going to put on a great show like I always do, and the whole card is packed with a lot of good fighters. It’s gonna be spooky!"
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"Big Gulp” Nagle back in the ring on Nov. 1st |
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Heavyweight Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (9-0, 7 KOs) has taken a challenging journey that continues on the November 1st show presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) at the DCU Event Center in Worcester, Massachusetts. Nagle, fighting out of Scituate, MA, faces Worcester’s Jake Paradise (8-3, 8 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature. Nagle’s U.S. Army Reserve unit was deployed to Kosovo in 2006-2007, followed by an additional military tour in Iraq. Unfortunately, he came home with alcohol and opioid issues. After a brief amateur career, the now 40 year-old Nagle stopped boxing when he was 25, but he sparred periodically with his friend, heavyweight Steve Vukosa, who is now Kevin’s head trainer.
Nagle and his then-wife had agreed to Kevin hanging up his gloves after the birth of their first child because she was concerned about his possible brain injuries in the future. In 2022, Nagle and his wife separated and the first call he made was to Vukosa, who contacted promoter Chris Traietti. “I came back to make a run so my kids would have good memories,” Nagle remembered. “I became a licensed nurse because of the alcohol and opiate problems I came home with from Iraq, and I wanted to become a caregiver. I’ve been a psychiatric nurse at the VA in Brockton for the past ten years.”
Nagle made his pro debut when he was 39 and he started training when he weighed 340 pounds. Today, he’s down to 270 pounds and fighting for a strap. “I love boxing and even when I was sparring with Steve I never gave up on my dreams and that’s the message I’m sending to my children (the four are aged between 3 and 8),” Nagle added. “I tell them that they need to try…win, lose or draw. I put in a lot of work to get into shape. I’m older now and push myself.”
Nagle had praise for Granite Chin's Chris Traeiit, saying, "He’s a man of his word. Every step I’ve taken, whether positive or not, has impacted my life. After this fight it’ll be whatever Chris says. I’d like to get into bigger fights and make some money, but I do what Chris tells me and hopefully that will be fighting on a bigger platform.”
Ironically, Nagle’s opponent has had his demons as well. Paradise has overcome drug addiction, homelessness, and suicidal depression anxiety. “This will be a clash of recovering fighters,” Nagle noted. “Anything can happen in boxing. Every time I go into a fight, I never know what’s going to happen. It’s boxing!”
Nagle also revealed how he came up with his nickname, “Big Gulp.” When Kevin came back from Iraq, he was drinking so much water that he started drinking half water, half soda. He and Steve came up with the nickname, “Big Gulp.” Tough rooting against a guy like Kevin Nagle.
The GCP event is headlined by a terrific match-up between Josniel “TG” Castro (13-1, 8 KOs), fighting out of Boca Raton (FL), who faces Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (14-0, 8 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), in the ten-round junior middleweight main event.
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"Big Gulp” Nagle back in the ring on Nov. 1st
Heavyweight Kevin “Big Gulp” Nagle (9-0, 7 KOs) has taken a challenging journey that continues on the November 1st show presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) at the DCU Event Center in Worcester, Massachusetts. Nagle, fighting out of Scituate, MA, faces Worcester’s Jake Paradise (8-3, 8 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature. Nagle’s U.S. Army Reserve unit was deployed to Kosovo in 2006-2007, followed by an additional military tour in Iraq. Unfortunately, he came home with alcohol and opioid issues. After a brief amateur career, the now 40 year-old Nagle stopped boxing when he was 25, but he sparred periodically with his friend, heavyweight Steve Vukosa, who is now Kevin’s head trainer.
Nagle and his then-wife had agreed to Kevin hanging up his gloves after the birth of their first child because she was concerned about his possible brain injuries in the future. In 2022, Nagle and his wife separated and the first call he made was to Vukosa, who contacted promoter Chris Traietti. “I came back to make a run so my kids would have good memories,” Nagle remembered. “I became a licensed nurse because of the alcohol and opiate problems I came home with from Iraq, and I wanted to become a caregiver. I’ve been a psychiatric nurse at the VA in Brockton for the past ten years.”
Nagle made his pro debut when he was 39 and he started training when he weighed 340 pounds. Today, he’s down to 270 pounds and fighting for a strap. “I love boxing and even when I was sparring with Steve I never gave up on my dreams and that’s the message I’m sending to my children (the four are aged between 3 and 8),” Nagle added. “I tell them that they need to try…win, lose or draw. I put in a lot of work to get into shape. I’m older now and push myself.”
Nagle had praise for Granite Chin's Chris Traeiit, saying, "He’s a man of his word. Every step I’ve taken, whether positive or not, has impacted my life. After this fight it’ll be whatever Chris says. I’d like to get into bigger fights and make some money, but I do what Chris tells me and hopefully that will be fighting on a bigger platform.”
Ironically, Nagle’s opponent has had his demons as well. Paradise has overcome drug addiction, homelessness, and suicidal depression anxiety. “This will be a clash of recovering fighters,” Nagle noted. “Anything can happen in boxing. Every time I go into a fight, I never know what’s going to happen. It’s boxing!”
Nagle also revealed how he came up with his nickname, “Big Gulp.” When Kevin came back from Iraq, he was drinking so much water that he started drinking half water, half soda. He and Steve came up with the nickname, “Big Gulp.” Tough rooting against a guy like Kevin Nagle.
The GCP event is headlined by a terrific match-up between Josniel “TG” Castro (13-1, 8 KOs), fighting out of Boca Raton (FL), who faces Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (14-0, 8 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), in the ten-round junior middleweight main event.
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Introducing British light heavyweight Conner Tudsbury |
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Manchester, England light heavyweight amateur standout Conner Tudsbury has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will make his professional debut in the new year. The 24-year old learned his trade at the Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club after walking into that gym as a wide-eyed eight-year-old. He went on to represent England and Team GB, including winning a bronze medal for his country at the Youth World Championships in Hungary in 2018. Now trained by Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis at the VIP Gym in Astley alongside Matchroom stablemates Jack Catterall and Cameron Vuong, Tudsbury will be co-managed by Sam Jones and Moore as he begins his journey in the professional ranks. “I’m excited to sign with the biggest promotional company in the world,” said Tudsbury. “I’ll be running through the Light-Heavyweight division all the way to the top. I know I carry serious power so I’ll be exciting to watch, but I’m not a one trick pony – I can box as well. We know it’s an entertainment business, so I’ll be giving the fans some devastating knockouts.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. I want to be as active as possible, work my way up and learn the tricks of the pro game. I’m explosive, exciting and unpredictable. I’ve got Sam Jones and Jamie Moore both managing me, it’s a great team.
“I trust my coaching set up. Everyone’s raving about them at the moment, people have only got good things to say about them. I’ve grown up with them, so I know they’re great people and great coaches. They’ll take me far.”
“I’m delighted to announce the signing of exciting Light-Heavyweight prospect Conner Tudsbury,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Conner had an excellent schooling at the famous Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club before excelling for England and Team GB. He possesses all of the attributes to quickly establish himself as a fan favourite – frightening power and slick skills. With Jamie, Nigel and Sam backing him Conner is in the perfect place to learn and develop. I can’t wait to get this journey underway in early 2025.”
Manager Sam Jones said: “Conner Tudsbury is going to cement his position as the best Light-Heavyweight in Britain within 18 months. He possesses frightening knockout power to complement is brilliant boxing skills so I really believe the fans will love him.”
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Introducing British light heavyweight Conner Tudsbury
Manchester, England light heavyweight amateur standout Conner Tudsbury has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will make his professional debut in the new year. The 24-year old learned his trade at the Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club after walking into that gym as a wide-eyed eight-year-old. He went on to represent England and Team GB, including winning a bronze medal for his country at the Youth World Championships in Hungary in 2018. Now trained by Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis at the VIP Gym in Astley alongside Matchroom stablemates Jack Catterall and Cameron Vuong, Tudsbury will be co-managed by Sam Jones and Moore as he begins his journey in the professional ranks. “I’m excited to sign with the biggest promotional company in the world,” said Tudsbury. “I’ll be running through the Light-Heavyweight division all the way to the top. I know I carry serious power so I’ll be exciting to watch, but I’m not a one trick pony – I can box as well. We know it’s an entertainment business, so I’ll be giving the fans some devastating knockouts.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. I want to be as active as possible, work my way up and learn the tricks of the pro game. I’m explosive, exciting and unpredictable. I’ve got Sam Jones and Jamie Moore both managing me, it’s a great team.
“I trust my coaching set up. Everyone’s raving about them at the moment, people have only got good things to say about them. I’ve grown up with them, so I know they’re great people and great coaches. They’ll take me far.”
“I’m delighted to announce the signing of exciting Light-Heavyweight prospect Conner Tudsbury,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Conner had an excellent schooling at the famous Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club before excelling for England and Team GB. He possesses all of the attributes to quickly establish himself as a fan favourite – frightening power and slick skills. With Jamie, Nigel and Sam backing him Conner is in the perfect place to learn and develop. I can’t wait to get this journey underway in early 2025.”
Manager Sam Jones said: “Conner Tudsbury is going to cement his position as the best Light-Heavyweight in Britain within 18 months. He possesses frightening knockout power to complement is brilliant boxing skills so I really believe the fans will love him.”
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Gadzhimagomedov retains bridgerweight title in snoozefest |
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Muslim Gadzhimagomedov W12 Leon Harth... In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. Now 22-6-1, Harth has fought as 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd. Official scores were not read in English, but the WBA later confirmed it was a shoutout, thjree scores of 120-108, for Gadzhimagomedov (5-0). A two-time world amateur champion, Gadzhimagomedov claimed the vacant WBA title in July via a TKO victory over Zhaoxin Zhang from China. Harth fought for the same title late in 2023 against Evgeny Tischenko. That fight, originally a loss for Harth, was changed to a no contest due to a positive doping test for Tischenko.
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Gadzhimagomedov retains bridgerweight title in snoozefest
Muslim Gadzhimagomedov W12 Leon Harth... In a very dull fight held at the Ufa Arena in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia, Muslim Gadzhimagomedov retained the WBA bridgerweight title, defeating a sleepwalking Leon Harth of Germany. Now 22-6-1, Harth has fought as 175 pounder in a few fights but has blown up to compete in the 224-pound division. The most excitement in the fight occurred when world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev stepped into the ring just before the verdict was announced to the crowd. Official scores were not read in English, but the WBA later confirmed it was a shoutout, thjree scores of 120-108, for Gadzhimagomedov (5-0). A two-time world amateur champion, Gadzhimagomedov claimed the vacant WBA title in July via a TKO victory over Zhaoxin Zhang from China. Harth fought for the same title late in 2023 against Evgeny Tischenko. That fight, originally a loss for Harth, was changed to a no contest due to a positive doping test for Tischenko.
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Batyrgaziev wins when Pagara fails to come out for fifth round |
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Albert Batyrgaziev TKO5 Albert Pagara... In the main event of a disappointing card in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia Albert Batyrgaziev easily defeated Albert Pagara from the Philippines in a 60 kilogram (roughly 132 pounds) bout. Pagara, who turned pro as a super flyweight, was too small, but more importantly, did not appear to be fully healthy. After four one-sided rounds, Pagara failed to come out for the fifth round, grimacing on his stool with an apparently pre-existing left arm injury. Batyrgaziev (11-0) is recognized as the WBA interim champion at 130 pounds and the IBA champion at 60 kg. Pagara is now 35-2 but that record is misleading.
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Batyrgaziev wins when Pagara fails to come out for fifth round
Albert Batyrgaziev TKO5 Albert Pagara... In the main event of a disappointing card in Ufa (Bashkortan), Russia Albert Batyrgaziev easily defeated Albert Pagara from the Philippines in a 60 kilogram (roughly 132 pounds) bout. Pagara, who turned pro as a super flyweight, was too small, but more importantly, did not appear to be fully healthy. After four one-sided rounds, Pagara failed to come out for the fifth round, grimacing on his stool with an apparently pre-existing left arm injury. Batyrgaziev (11-0) is recognized as the WBA interim champion at 130 pounds and the IBA champion at 60 kg. Pagara is now 35-2 but that record is misleading.
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ProBox results: Salcido deals serious blow to Colbert's career |
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Omar Salcido TKO8 Chris Colbert... Last night in Plant City, Florida, the career of former contender Chris Colbert took a huge hit, as his corner stopped his lightweight fight against Omar Salcido in the eighth round. The Mexican-born Salcido is now 20-1, with this being the biggest win of his career. Colbert had been running around the ring, trying to avoid any exchanges with Salcido, and his chief second warned him after round seven that he was thinking about stopping the fight unless Colbert turned it around. Colbert continued taking punches in round eight with little to no return fire, and true to his word, the cornerman waved the towel to call off the bout. Colbert (17-3) came into the fight looking to revive his career but now has lost three out of his last four fights. In December, he was knocked out by Jose Valenzuela in the sixth round of their rematch. Nine months prior, Colbert had scored a controversial unanimous decision against Valenzuela, which led to the sequel.
Tsendbaatar Erdenebat W10 Frency Fortunato... In the chief supporting bout, 2016 Mongolian Olympian Tsendbaatar Erdenebat improved to 11-0, breezing to a unanimous decision against Frency Fortunato (15-2) in a ten-round junior lightweight contest. Erdenebat came forward the whole time and caused considerable facial swelling to the face of the brave Fortunato. Official scores were 100-90 and 98-92 (twice).
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ProBox results: Salcido deals serious blow to Colbert's career
Omar Salcido TKO8 Chris Colbert... Last night in Plant City, Florida, the career of former contender Chris Colbert took a huge hit, as his corner stopped his lightweight fight against Omar Salcido in the eighth round. The Mexican-born Salcido is now 20-1, with this being the biggest win of his career. Colbert had been running around the ring, trying to avoid any exchanges with Salcido, and his chief second warned him after round seven that he was thinking about stopping the fight unless Colbert turned it around. Colbert continued taking punches in round eight with little to no return fire, and true to his word, the cornerman waved the towel to call off the bout. Colbert (17-3) came into the fight looking to revive his career but now has lost three out of his last four fights. In December, he was knocked out by Jose Valenzuela in the sixth round of their rematch. Nine months prior, Colbert had scored a controversial unanimous decision against Valenzuela, which led to the sequel.
Tsendbaatar Erdenebat W10 Frency Fortunato... In the chief supporting bout, 2016 Mongolian Olympian Tsendbaatar Erdenebat improved to 11-0, breezing to a unanimous decision against Frency Fortunato (15-2) in a ten-round junior lightweight contest. Erdenebat came forward the whole time and caused considerable facial swelling to the face of the brave Fortunato. Official scores were 100-90 and 98-92 (twice).
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Late results from New Jersey |
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Daniel Gonzalez W10 Michael Anderson... “Brick City Fight Night Series” returned to Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey last Saturday, drawing a crowd of 3,647 fans, marking the return of club show boxing to North Jersey. In the main event, Daniel “El Gallo” Gonzalez scored the biggest victory of his career, defeating Michael “Slick” Anderson by unanimous decision in their ten-round welterweight fight. Gonzalez (22-4-1, 7 knockouts) of Queens, NY showed off his boxing skills and footwork to offset the aggression of the Newark native Anderson (24-4-1, 18 KOs). Gonzalez won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 (twice). "It was a crazy night of upsets, knockouts and young fighters daring to be great. That’s what boxing is all about. I’m excited for the future of 'Brick City Fight Night Series' at Prudential Center,” said promoter Thomas “Cornflake LaManna, who is also an active boxer. “I’m just thankful for everyone doing their part, from the venue staff to the Rising Star Promotions team and the fighters. Can’t wait to come back in the beginning of 2025.”
Kristian Prenga TKO5 Joey Dawejko... Popular heavyweight Kristian Prenga (16-1, 16 KOs) kept his 100% knockout streak alive, stopping the more experienced Joey Dawejko (28-13-4, 16 KOs) at the :41 mark of round five of their eight round bout. The fight was stopped after Dawejko complained of an injury to his left bicep after throwing a punch, forcing the ringside doctor to halt the bout.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
In the co-feature, Khalid “Pure Gold” Twaiti knocked down Emmanuel “Salserito” Rodriguez once en route to a unanimous decision victory in their ten-round bantamweight fight. Twaiti (14-0, 5 KOs) of Brooklyn, N.Y. earned the victory by scores of 99-91 (twice) and 98-91, while Rodriguez (15-3, 8 KOs) saw his winning streak snapped at two.
In one of the most explosive outcomes of the night, “Dangerous” Danny Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs) of Iselin, N.J. dropped Gabriel Gerena (6-1, 5 KOs) of Piscataway, N.J. with a big left hook to score a first round technical knockout at the 2:07 mark.
Anthony “Big Back” Johns (9-1, 6 KOs) put on a thrilling performance for his hometown fans, defeating well-traveled journeyman Edwin Reyes (8-9-3, 5 KOs) by a six-round majority decision. One judge scored the fight even at 57-57, while the other two had it 60-54 and 59-55 for Johns.
Popular junior middleweight Jean Pierre Valencia (2-0, 2 KOs) of Irvington, N.J. scored the first knockout of the night, dropping Cody Jenkins (0-4) for the ten count with a left hook to the body at the 1:49 mark of the first round to remain undefeated in his pro career.
Kahshad Elliot KO2 Edwin Charip...
Muhammad Noori W4 Michael Ruiz...
Damian Tinnerello TKO2 John Hawks
Erasmo Rosado Jr. KO1 Douglas Walsh...
Justin Palmieri W4 Zachary Davis and...
Keith Colon KO1 Robert Munn.
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Late results from New Jersey
Daniel Gonzalez W10 Michael Anderson... “Brick City Fight Night Series” returned to Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey last Saturday, drawing a crowd of 3,647 fans, marking the return of club show boxing to North Jersey. In the main event, Daniel “El Gallo” Gonzalez scored the biggest victory of his career, defeating Michael “Slick” Anderson by unanimous decision in their ten-round welterweight fight. Gonzalez (22-4-1, 7 knockouts) of Queens, NY showed off his boxing skills and footwork to offset the aggression of the Newark native Anderson (24-4-1, 18 KOs). Gonzalez won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 (twice). "It was a crazy night of upsets, knockouts and young fighters daring to be great. That’s what boxing is all about. I’m excited for the future of 'Brick City Fight Night Series' at Prudential Center,” said promoter Thomas “Cornflake LaManna, who is also an active boxer. “I’m just thankful for everyone doing their part, from the venue staff to the Rising Star Promotions team and the fighters. Can’t wait to come back in the beginning of 2025.”
Kristian Prenga TKO5 Joey Dawejko... Popular heavyweight Kristian Prenga (16-1, 16 KOs) kept his 100% knockout streak alive, stopping the more experienced Joey Dawejko (28-13-4, 16 KOs) at the :41 mark of round five of their eight round bout. The fight was stopped after Dawejko complained of an injury to his left bicep after throwing a punch, forcing the ringside doctor to halt the bout.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
In the co-feature, Khalid “Pure Gold” Twaiti knocked down Emmanuel “Salserito” Rodriguez once en route to a unanimous decision victory in their ten-round bantamweight fight. Twaiti (14-0, 5 KOs) of Brooklyn, N.Y. earned the victory by scores of 99-91 (twice) and 98-91, while Rodriguez (15-3, 8 KOs) saw his winning streak snapped at two.
In one of the most explosive outcomes of the night, “Dangerous” Danny Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs) of Iselin, N.J. dropped Gabriel Gerena (6-1, 5 KOs) of Piscataway, N.J. with a big left hook to score a first round technical knockout at the 2:07 mark.
Anthony “Big Back” Johns (9-1, 6 KOs) put on a thrilling performance for his hometown fans, defeating well-traveled journeyman Edwin Reyes (8-9-3, 5 KOs) by a six-round majority decision. One judge scored the fight even at 57-57, while the other two had it 60-54 and 59-55 for Johns.
Popular junior middleweight Jean Pierre Valencia (2-0, 2 KOs) of Irvington, N.J. scored the first knockout of the night, dropping Cody Jenkins (0-4) for the ten count with a left hook to the body at the 1:49 mark of the first round to remain undefeated in his pro career.
Kahshad Elliot KO2 Edwin Charip...
Muhammad Noori W4 Michael Ruiz...
Damian Tinnerello TKO2 John Hawks
Erasmo Rosado Jr. KO1 Douglas Walsh...
Justin Palmieri W4 Zachary Davis and...
Keith Colon KO1 Robert Munn.
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Artur Mann books Nov. 2nd fight date |
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Germany´s Artur “Thunderman” Mann will take on undefeated Romanian Ion Mihai Desrobitu in a cruiserweight tilt on November 2nd at the Schilde Halle in Bad Hersfeld, Germany. Mann (21-4 with 12 KOs) lost to Kevin Lerena for the IBO title in 2019 and Mairis Breidis for the IBF title in 2021. He'll be seeking his second win since losing to Muslim Gadzhimagomedov of Russia, who went on to become a bridgerweight champion. The 34 year-old Mann was born in Kazakhstan and will have a significant advantage in experience over Desrobitu (age 30). The Romanian, who brings an 8-0 record with 4 KOs, turned professional in 2019. While he has yet to compete at the level of Mann, he also doesn't know how to lose as a pro, and he will be a dangerous proposition for the local fighter, at least in the early rounds.
Billed as “Homecoming”, Mann vs. Desrobitu will be promoted by Mann Promotion and is preceded by a six-fight undercard.
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Artur Mann books Nov. 2nd fight date
Germany´s Artur “Thunderman” Mann will take on undefeated Romanian Ion Mihai Desrobitu in a cruiserweight tilt on November 2nd at the Schilde Halle in Bad Hersfeld, Germany. Mann (21-4 with 12 KOs) lost to Kevin Lerena for the IBO title in 2019 and Mairis Breidis for the IBF title in 2021. He'll be seeking his second win since losing to Muslim Gadzhimagomedov of Russia, who went on to become a bridgerweight champion. The 34 year-old Mann was born in Kazakhstan and will have a significant advantage in experience over Desrobitu (age 30). The Romanian, who brings an 8-0 record with 4 KOs, turned professional in 2019. While he has yet to compete at the level of Mann, he also doesn't know how to lose as a pro, and he will be a dangerous proposition for the local fighter, at least in the early rounds.
Billed as “Homecoming”, Mann vs. Desrobitu will be promoted by Mann Promotion and is preceded by a six-fight undercard.
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