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Source: Twitter | January 26, 2022

Is Martinez staying at 115 pounds? Hearn says no
IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards is disappointed WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez is moving up in weight for a super fight vs. former four-division champ Roman "Chocoltito" Gonzalez in March: "Been sat here waiting for months now trying to get the Martinez fight - went cold a bit ago and now it’s looking like he’s moving up weight. I told you from long time Ed, Edd & Eddy didn’t want nothing to do with me. Great fight Choc[olotito] vs. Martinez though." Promoter Eddie Hearn: "He’ll be back at fly after to unify... the little crazy [guy] just wanted that Chocolatito smoke!" PRIOR STORY: WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez (pictured) will face former four-division champion Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (50-3 41 KOs) of Nicaragua at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California on Saturday March 5th, live worldwide on DAZN. Martinez (18-1, 14 KOs) moves up to 115 pounds and does so against a legend, with the Mexican stepping in to replace countryman Juan Francisco Estrada, who has been forced out of his trilogy clash with Chocolatito due to the coronavirus. Martinez’s last outing was an all-action shootout with McWilliams Arroyo in New Hampshire in November, with both men hitting the canvas in the opening round and Martinez flooring Arroyo in the second before the contest was stopped with Arroyo suffering a cut. The exciting Mexican has spoken freely of his desire to move up in weight and challenge himself against the cream of the 115lb scene like Chocolatito and Estrada, and opportunity has knocked loudly for the 26 year old to announce himself at Super-Flyweight in San Diego and ‘El Rey’ plans to do so in style against the Nicaraguan star. “I am thrilled that I am able to move up in weight and fight the very best straight away,” said Martinez. “Chocolatito is a living legend and a fighter I have always admired, so to be fighting him in my first fight at super flyweight is special – but on the night, it’s going to be war and I am ready for it. “I have ambitions to unify the flyweight division and that flame still burns, but this fight is so huge for me, and I did not hesitate to accept it – I promise the fans that I will put on a show.” “What a fight!” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Julio has ambitions to become a pound-for-pound star, and this is what the greats do – meet huge challenges head on and take them with both hands. Chocolatito is a modern great and he’s relishing this test against El Rey – I cannot wait for this fight and I’m so happy that both men have signed on the dotted line to deliver this brilliant fight to the fans.”
	Is Martinez staying at 115 pounds? Hearn says no IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards is disappointed WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez is moving up in weight for a super fight vs. former four-division champ Roman "Chocoltito" Gonzalez in March: "Been sat here waiting for months now trying to get the Martinez fight - went cold a bit ago and now it’s looking like he’s moving up weight. I told you from long time Ed, Edd & Eddy didn’t want nothing to do with me. Great fight Choc[olotito] vs. Martinez though." Promoter Eddie Hearn: "He’ll be back at fly after to unify... the little crazy [guy] just wanted that Chocolatito smoke!" PRIOR STORY: WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez (pictured) will face former four-division champion Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (50-3 41 KOs) of Nicaragua at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California on Saturday March 5th, live worldwide on DAZN. Martinez (18-1, 14 KOs) moves up to 115 pounds and does so against a legend, with the Mexican stepping in to replace countryman Juan Francisco Estrada, who has been forced out of his trilogy clash with Chocolatito due to the coronavirus. Martinez’s last outing was an all-action shootout with McWilliams Arroyo in New Hampshire in November, with both men hitting the canvas in the opening round and Martinez flooring Arroyo in the second before the contest was stopped with Arroyo suffering a cut. The exciting Mexican has spoken freely of his desire to move up in weight and challenge himself against the cream of the 115lb scene like Chocolatito and Estrada, and opportunity has knocked loudly for the 26 year old to announce himself at Super-Flyweight in San Diego and ‘El Rey’ plans to do so in style against the Nicaraguan star. “I am thrilled that I am able to move up in weight and fight the very best straight away,” said Martinez. “Chocolatito is a living legend and a fighter I have always admired, so to be fighting him in my first fight at super flyweight is special – but on the night, it’s going to be war and I am ready for it. “I have ambitions to unify the flyweight division and that flame still burns, but this fight is so huge for me, and I did not hesitate to accept it – I promise the fans that I will put on a show.” “What a fight!” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Julio has ambitions to become a pound-for-pound star, and this is what the greats do – meet huge challenges head on and take them with both hands. Chocolatito is a modern great and he’s relishing this test against El Rey – I cannot wait for this fight and I’m so happy that both men have signed on the dotted line to deliver this brilliant fight to the fans.”

Press Release | January 26, 2022

Brook vs. Khan: 149-pound catchweight on Feb. 19th
The long-simmering rivalry between two British ex-champions, Amir Khan and Kell Brook (pictured), will finally come to a head in a 149-pound catchweight battle Saturday, Feb. 19th at AO Arena in Manchester. Roughly 20,000 fans will be in attendance for this British super fight, which sold out in ten minutes when tickets went on sale in December. Promoted by Boxxer, Khan vs. Brook and select undercard fights will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+. The 35 year-old Khan (34-5, 21 KOs), from Bolton, England, has been in the spotlight since the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, when he took home a silver medal as a 17 year old. As a pro, Khan unified world titles at junior welterweight and fought myriad top names, including Marco Antonio Barrera, Danny Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Paulie Malignaggi, Canelo Alvarez, and Zab Judah. He last fought in July 2019, knocking out [a badly undersized] former featherweight title holder, Billy Dib, in four rounds. Brook (39-3, 27 KOs), a former British champion from Sheffield, England, made three successful defenses of the IBF welterweight world title he won from Shawn Porter in August 2014. His bold 2016 challenge of middleweight champion Gennadiy Golovkin ended in a fifth-round knockout defeat. He then lost his welterweight title to Errol Spence Jr. via eleventh-round knockout the following May. Brook won three consecutive fights before challenging WBO welterweight champion Terence Crawford in November 2020. Brook led on two scorecards before being knocked out in the fourth round. “Kell Brook versus Amir Khan is a fight that has sparked international interest,” said Boxxer CEO Ben Shalom. “This legacy-defining fight between the UK superstars, who have been world champions on American soil, now meet in a final showdown at AO Arena in one of the most eagerly anticipated fights in UK history.” "I think Kell Brook is very bitter, and this is a good time for me to put the issue straight between us because he has always thought he is the better fighter than me," Khan told Sky Sports. "He's always said he should have had the recognition that I had and believes that should have been him. But at the end of the day, my skills made me the name I am today.” In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Brook said: "This is a real grudge match, there's no love lost in this fight and we both don't like each other. The fans and the pundits can't split us, and that shows how even this fight is going to be."
	Brook vs. Khan: 149-pound catchweight on Feb. 19th The long-simmering rivalry between two British ex-champions, Amir Khan and Kell Brook (pictured), will finally come to a head in a 149-pound catchweight battle Saturday, Feb. 19th at AO Arena in Manchester. Roughly 20,000 fans will be in attendance for this British super fight, which sold out in ten minutes when tickets went on sale in December. Promoted by Boxxer, Khan vs. Brook and select undercard fights will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+. The 35 year-old Khan (34-5, 21 KOs), from Bolton, England, has been in the spotlight since the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, when he took home a silver medal as a 17 year old. As a pro, Khan unified world titles at junior welterweight and fought myriad top names, including Marco Antonio Barrera, Danny Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Paulie Malignaggi, Canelo Alvarez, and Zab Judah. He last fought in July 2019, knocking out [a badly undersized] former featherweight title holder, Billy Dib, in four rounds. Brook (39-3, 27 KOs), a former British champion from Sheffield, England, made three successful defenses of the IBF welterweight world title he won from Shawn Porter in August 2014. His bold 2016 challenge of middleweight champion Gennadiy Golovkin ended in a fifth-round knockout defeat. He then lost his welterweight title to Errol Spence Jr. via eleventh-round knockout the following May. Brook won three consecutive fights before challenging WBO welterweight champion Terence Crawford in November 2020. Brook led on two scorecards before being knocked out in the fourth round. “Kell Brook versus Amir Khan is a fight that has sparked international interest,” said Boxxer CEO Ben Shalom. “This legacy-defining fight between the UK superstars, who have been world champions on American soil, now meet in a final showdown at AO Arena in one of the most eagerly anticipated fights in UK history.” "I think Kell Brook is very bitter, and this is a good time for me to put the issue straight between us because he has always thought he is the better fighter than me," Khan told Sky Sports. "He's always said he should have had the recognition that I had and believes that should have been him. But at the end of the day, my skills made me the name I am today.” In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Brook said: "This is a real grudge match, there's no love lost in this fight and we both don't like each other. The fans and the pundits can't split us, and that shows how even this fight is going to be."

Source: WBC | January 26, 2022

WBC pushing Rey Vargas as next challenger for Mark Magsayo
New WBC featherweight champion Mark Magsayo [pictured], who was a guest on the WBC´s weekly press conference, says his preference is to fight WBA champion Leo Santa Cruz [who hasn't made featherweight in years] next at 126 pounds. Magsayo who dethroned Gary Russell by majority decision last week, also mentioned former WBO super bantamweight champion Emanuel Navarrete as a possible opponent. Former WBC super bantamweight champion Rey Vargas, who has moved up to featherweight and remains undefeated, is the WBC #1 contender and is keen to get into the ring with Magsayo. Vargas and his International Boxing Hall of Fame Trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain who were also on the press conference, confirmed they want to challenge Magsayo. Beristain praised Magsayo as a talented and tremendous fighter, and also said that he'd always prefer Vargas to fight against Magsayo, as Russell is a southpaw with a complicated style. He said Vargas must and will train extra hard in the build-up to the opportunity. For Vargas, the trek to Beristain´s Romanza/Gilberto Roman Gym, is a quite a journey, as he lives a considerable distance away. But together, they´ve already achieved greatness. Magsayo who's trained by Freddie Roach, said that he`s applied what he`d gained in training camp, utilizing it to defeat Russell. He said that he`d hit Russell. hard on the right shoulder in the fourth round and hurt as well as hampered him. Magsayo is the protege of the Great Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. But when asked if he`s the next Pacquiao he firmly responded: "There is NO next Manny. There is only one and only Manny Pacquiao. No one can achieve what he´s achieved or surpass him! He is my hero, and I`m following in his footsteps. I will fight anyone but in my division. I would like to fight Leo Santa and Luis Nery.” Magsayo also said that the proper nutrition is very important for him, because he´s a big feather. Between fights, he normally walks around at between one hundred and forty and one hundred and forty five pounds in weight. Vargas says he wants a direct fight against Magsayo, minus a warm up bout. He stressed that he won his super bantam title by going to Yorkshire, England and is more than happy to travel to the United States for the opportunity to take on Magsayo. He stressed the key to winning is ring smarts and intelligence. Vargas (35-0) made a successful ring comeback in November, after recovering for almost two years out, due to a broken leg.
	WBC pushing Rey Vargas as next challenger for Mark Magsayo New WBC featherweight champion Mark Magsayo [pictured], who was a guest on the WBC´s weekly press conference, says his preference is to fight WBA champion Leo Santa Cruz [who hasn't made featherweight in years] next at 126 pounds. Magsayo who dethroned Gary Russell by majority decision last week, also mentioned former WBO super bantamweight champion Emanuel Navarrete as a possible opponent. Former WBC super bantamweight champion Rey Vargas, who has moved up to featherweight and remains undefeated, is the WBC #1 contender and is keen to get into the ring with Magsayo. Vargas and his International Boxing Hall of Fame Trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain who were also on the press conference, confirmed they want to challenge Magsayo. Beristain praised Magsayo as a talented and tremendous fighter, and also said that he'd always prefer Vargas to fight against Magsayo, as Russell is a southpaw with a complicated style. He said Vargas must and will train extra hard in the build-up to the opportunity. For Vargas, the trek to Beristain´s Romanza/Gilberto Roman Gym, is a quite a journey, as he lives a considerable distance away. But together, they´ve already achieved greatness. Magsayo who's trained by Freddie Roach, said that he`s applied what he`d gained in training camp, utilizing it to defeat Russell. He said that he`d hit Russell. hard on the right shoulder in the fourth round and hurt as well as hampered him. Magsayo is the protege of the Great Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. But when asked if he`s the next Pacquiao he firmly responded: "There is NO next Manny. There is only one and only Manny Pacquiao. No one can achieve what he´s achieved or surpass him! He is my hero, and I`m following in his footsteps. I will fight anyone but in my division. I would like to fight Leo Santa and Luis Nery.” Magsayo also said that the proper nutrition is very important for him, because he´s a big feather. Between fights, he normally walks around at between one hundred and forty and one hundred and forty five pounds in weight. Vargas says he wants a direct fight against Magsayo, minus a warm up bout. He stressed that he won his super bantam title by going to Yorkshire, England and is more than happy to travel to the United States for the opportunity to take on Magsayo. He stressed the key to winning is ring smarts and intelligence. Vargas (35-0) made a successful ring comeback in November, after recovering for almost two years out, due to a broken leg.

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Welterweight Florian Marku signs with Boxxer

Press Release | January 26, 2022

Welterweight Florian Marku signs with Boxxer
Welterweight Florian ‘The Albanian King’ Marku has signed a new long-term promotional agreement with Boxxer. Marku (10-0-1, 16 KO’s) achieved considerable success in the kickboxing and MMA disciplines before switching to boxing. In kickboxing he was a four-time champion with 110 fights under his belt before turning to MMA with a seven-fight unbeaten record. The 29 year-old from Lushnje, has previously lived in Greece and is now based out of North London. Marku was last in action in November when he defeated Frenchman Jorick Luisetto on points over eight rounds at Wembley Arena to maintain his unbeaten record in front of his fanatical fans. Marku said, “I’m delighted to sign an exclusive long term deal with Boxxer. I want to give my fans what they want: the best fights on the biggest platform – and in Sky Sports we have that. I cannot wait to put on a show for all my fans all over the world. I am coming for everyone at 147 – watch this space.” Ben Shalom, Boxxer CEO and Founder, is pleased to welcome Marku to the team. He said “We’ve had a long and successful association with Florian as he was one of the first boxers that we got involved with. He featured on our early tournament shows which saw his popularity and reputation grow from strength to strength. We’re delighted to now sign this long-term deal as we head into the most important phase of his career that will see face the best at 147 pounds.” Adam Morallee, CEO at S-Jam Boxing, said, “Florian is a huge draw: he’s entertaining, a massive ticket seller and made for Pay Per View. He’s now got a great platform with BOXXER and Sky Sports to move on to the next level and become a household name in the UK. There are so many great fights for him at 147lbs: the next two years are going to be big for Florian Marku.” Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports said, “‘Everyone at Sky Sports are very pleased that Florian Marku has signed for our promotional partners BOXXER. Florian is a really engaging character who is extremely popular and who is demanding the biggest and most exciting fights.’ Hugely popular on social media, Marku is active and willing to engage with fans on the platforms and can boast nearly 700k followers on Instagram as he his popularity continues to expand with each fight. He also counts Albanian footballers in his fan club including Ex-Liverpool and current Lyon midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri, who has been ringside to watch him fight, and Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, both of whom he is close friends with.
	Welterweight Florian Marku signs with Boxxer Welterweight Florian ‘The Albanian King’ Marku has signed a new long-term promotional agreement with Boxxer. Marku (10-0-1, 16 KO’s) achieved considerable success in the kickboxing and MMA disciplines before switching to boxing. In kickboxing he was a four-time champion with 110 fights under his belt before turning to MMA with a seven-fight unbeaten record. The 29 year-old from Lushnje, has previously lived in Greece and is now based out of North London. Marku was last in action in November when he defeated Frenchman Jorick Luisetto on points over eight rounds at Wembley Arena to maintain his unbeaten record in front of his fanatical fans. Marku said, “I’m delighted to sign an exclusive long term deal with Boxxer. I want to give my fans what they want: the best fights on the biggest platform – and in Sky Sports we have that. I cannot wait to put on a show for all my fans all over the world. I am coming for everyone at 147 – watch this space.” Ben Shalom, Boxxer CEO and Founder, is pleased to welcome Marku to the team. He said “We’ve had a long and successful association with Florian as he was one of the first boxers that we got involved with. He featured on our early tournament shows which saw his popularity and reputation grow from strength to strength. We’re delighted to now sign this long-term deal as we head into the most important phase of his career that will see face the best at 147 pounds.” Adam Morallee, CEO at S-Jam Boxing, said, “Florian is a huge draw: he’s entertaining, a massive ticket seller and made for Pay Per View. He’s now got a great platform with BOXXER and Sky Sports to move on to the next level and become a household name in the UK. There are so many great fights for him at 147lbs: the next two years are going to be big for Florian Marku.” Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports said, “‘Everyone at Sky Sports are very pleased that Florian Marku has signed for our promotional partners BOXXER. Florian is a really engaging character who is extremely popular and who is demanding the biggest and most exciting fights.’ Hugely popular on social media, Marku is active and willing to engage with fans on the platforms and can boast nearly 700k followers on Instagram as he his popularity continues to expand with each fight. He also counts Albanian footballers in his fan club including Ex-Liverpool and current Lyon midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri, who has been ringside to watch him fight, and Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, both of whom he is close friends with.

Source: WBA | January 26, 2022

Ricardo “Científico” Núñez named Panama's Boxer of the Year
Super featherweight Ricardo “Científico” Núñez (23-3 with 21 KOs) was chosen as the 2021 Boxer of the Year in Panama. In 2019, Núñez lost to Gervonta "Tank" Davis and did not fight in 2020. But in 2021, he returned to fight twice. On both occasions he won by stoppage, defeating Alfredo Santiago (13-2) in May and Richard Solano (25-3-2) in October. “This distinction motivates me to continue working, to continue doing things well and to look for another opportunity to be crowned world champion”, said Núñez to the newspaper Crítica de Panamá.
	Ricardo “Científico” Núñez named Panama's Boxer of the Year Super featherweight Ricardo “Científico” Núñez (23-3 with 21 KOs) was chosen as the 2021 Boxer of the Year in Panama. In 2019, Núñez lost to Gervonta "Tank" Davis and did not fight in 2020. But in 2021, he returned to fight twice. On both occasions he won by stoppage, defeating Alfredo Santiago (13-2) in May and Richard Solano (25-3-2) in October. “This distinction motivates me to continue working, to continue doing things well and to look for another opportunity to be crowned world champion”, said Núñez to the newspaper Crítica de Panamá.

Source: WBA | January 26, 2022

Welterweight action included on DKP card this Saturday
The WBA reports a welterweight bout between Tre’Sean Wiggins and Cody Wilson will be a prt of the Don King Productions show set for this Saturday at the Packard Music Hall in Warren, Ohio. The 27 year-old Wilson is 10-3, having fought once in 2021, a second-round knockout in June 2021 of a boxer with a losing record. Wiggins has a lesser record of 12-5-3 but has the edge in experience at a higher level of competition, having fought Richardson Hitchins, Alberto Palmetta and Mykquan Williams (all losses). Wiggins will enter as the favorite, as he is coming off a solid six-round win over Cristian Dominguez (11-3).
	Welterweight action included on DKP card this Saturday The WBA reports a welterweight bout between Tre’Sean Wiggins and Cody Wilson will be a prt of the Don King Productions show set for this Saturday at the Packard Music Hall in Warren, Ohio. The 27 year-old Wilson is 10-3, having fought once in 2021, a second-round knockout in June 2021 of a boxer with a losing record. Wiggins has a lesser record of 12-5-3 but has the edge in experience at a higher level of competition, having fought Richardson Hitchins, Alberto Palmetta and Mykquan Williams (all losses). Wiggins will enter as the favorite, as he is coming off a solid six-round win over Cristian Dominguez (11-3).

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Tyrone Luckey steps into Massachusetts main event

Press Release | January 26, 2022

Tyrone Luckey steps into Massachusetts main event
Due to the coronavirus, Jeffrey Torres (9-1, 5 KOs) will now face veteran Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (15-16-4, 11 KOs) in the eight-round welterweight headliner, Saturday night, February 26th at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts. The show, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com for $19.99. Itis only the second professional boxing show ever in Framingham, which is 23 miles west of Boston. Luckey was originally scheduled to fight local favorite Nelson “Chino” Perez (5-0, 2 KOs), who has pulled out because he suffered the virus. “Unfortunately,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti explained, “we lost Perez, but Jeffrey Torres was willing to fill in for him and, to nobody’s surprise, Tyrone was willing to work with everyone to make the change possible. He’s a fighter, not one of these guys that pretends to be one on social media, posting videos of himself hitting bags or highlight reel knockouts of them beating up some 0-8 guy picked up off a job site. Tyrone is willing to test any prospect to see if they are the real deal or not. Torres comes from a giant gym, and he had a solid pedigree, so, no doubt, Tyrone will have his hands full and vice versa. This will be a fun fight!” Luckey, out of Manahawkin, New Jersey, has been in against top prospects such as Mike Ohan, Jr. Jamaine Ortiz, Tyler Tomlin, and Frank Martin. Torres, a native of Puerto Rico now fighting out of New Haven (CT), has won two in a row since suffering his only pro loss to 7-0 Josh Wagner last October. The six-round co-feature matches high-flying welterweight Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (7-0, 5 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), against Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-0), of Cranston, Rhode Island. Denzel is a “legacy boxer” as the latest member of the “Fightin’ Whitley family,” trained by his father and uncle, Derrick and Darrin, who were respected pro fighters in New England. Raymond, 31, made an auspicious pro debut this past November 13th, upsetting previously undefeated Julien Baptiste (3-0) by way of split decision. “This fight has all the makings for high action,” Traietti remarked. “’Keenan’ just upset a 3-0 prospect in his last fight, so his confidence is through the roof which makes him dangerous. On the other hand, you have Denzel looking to step up with each fight and get on television in the near future. He comes from a family with a long history if boxing. Denel really has all the pieces to be something special.” Boca Raton’s (FL) Josniel “TG” Castro (8-0, 6 KOs), returns to New England once again to face Mexican veteran Juan Jesus Rivera Garces (18-27, 12 KOs). Undefeated fighters Carlos Castillo (4-0, 3 KOs), a junior middleweight from Holyoke (MA) and Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight Steve Sumpter (3-0, 3 KOs) are scheduled to fight in their first scheduled six-rounders, respectively, versus Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-41-4, 3 KOs) and Rodrigo “The Young Lion” Almeida (2-11, 1 KO). Veteran middleweights Manny “Shake Em’ Up” Woods (17-15-1, 6 KOs), of Saint Petersburg (FL), and Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (12-50-4, 8 KOs), of Dallas, will open the evening in a ten-round bout. Decorated amateur Felix Parilla (3-0, 3 KOs), of New Haven, has been added to the card in a four-round fight against junior lightweight Weusi Johnson (3-19-1). Parrilla is a 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, as well as a 2018 National Golden Gloves silver medalist. Also slated to be in action, each in four-round matches, are light heavyweight Scott “Scotty Bomb” Lampert (2-3, 2 KOs) vs. Brazilian Leonardo Ladeira (1-6, 1 KO), Springfield (MA) super middleweight Laurent Humes (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Juan Celin Zapata (6-20-2, 4 KOs), Pittsfield junior middleweight Jamer Jones (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Maycon Ollder Da Silva (0-3), Framingham’s pro-debuting light heavyweight Kevin “Lucky” Lewis vs. crosstown rival Sal “The Spider” Almeida (0-14-4), and Swansea (MA) junior middleweight Anthony Andreozzi (0-2) vs. Robert Bricks (0-8). “I am excited to showcase a big chunk of the rapidly growing Granite Chin roster,” Traietti concluded. “I have been setting out for the last 2 years to really create a roster of exciting fighters who will be regulars on major networks in the near future. If you’re looking for a night of quality, high-competitive boxing, the Sheraton on February 26h is the place to be.” Tickets are on sale for purchase at www.TicketRiver.com
	Tyrone Luckey steps into Massachusetts main event Due to the coronavirus, Jeffrey Torres (9-1, 5 KOs) will now face veteran Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (15-16-4, 11 KOs) in the eight-round welterweight headliner, Saturday night, February 26th at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts. The show, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com for $19.99. Itis only the second professional boxing show ever in Framingham, which is 23 miles west of Boston. Luckey was originally scheduled to fight local favorite Nelson “Chino” Perez (5-0, 2 KOs), who has pulled out because he suffered the virus. “Unfortunately,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti explained, “we lost Perez, but Jeffrey Torres was willing to fill in for him and, to nobody’s surprise, Tyrone was willing to work with everyone to make the change possible. He’s a fighter, not one of these guys that pretends to be one on social media, posting videos of himself hitting bags or highlight reel knockouts of them beating up some 0-8 guy picked up off a job site. Tyrone is willing to test any prospect to see if they are the real deal or not. Torres comes from a giant gym, and he had a solid pedigree, so, no doubt, Tyrone will have his hands full and vice versa. This will be a fun fight!” Luckey, out of Manahawkin, New Jersey, has been in against top prospects such as Mike Ohan, Jr. Jamaine Ortiz, Tyler Tomlin, and Frank Martin. Torres, a native of Puerto Rico now fighting out of New Haven (CT), has won two in a row since suffering his only pro loss to 7-0 Josh Wagner last October. The six-round co-feature matches high-flying welterweight Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (7-0, 5 KOs), of Holyoke (MA), against Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-0), of Cranston, Rhode Island. Denzel is a “legacy boxer” as the latest member of the “Fightin’ Whitley family,” trained by his father and uncle, Derrick and Darrin, who were respected pro fighters in New England. Raymond, 31, made an auspicious pro debut this past November 13th, upsetting previously undefeated Julien Baptiste (3-0) by way of split decision. “This fight has all the makings for high action,” Traietti remarked. “’Keenan’ just upset a 3-0 prospect in his last fight, so his confidence is through the roof which makes him dangerous. On the other hand, you have Denzel looking to step up with each fight and get on television in the near future. He comes from a family with a long history if boxing. Denel really has all the pieces to be something special.” Boca Raton’s (FL) Josniel “TG” Castro (8-0, 6 KOs), returns to New England once again to face Mexican veteran Juan Jesus Rivera Garces (18-27, 12 KOs). Undefeated fighters Carlos Castillo (4-0, 3 KOs), a junior middleweight from Holyoke (MA) and Pittsfield (MA) super middleweight Steve Sumpter (3-0, 3 KOs) are scheduled to fight in their first scheduled six-rounders, respectively, versus Antonio Chaves Fernandez (9-41-4, 3 KOs) and Rodrigo “The Young Lion” Almeida (2-11, 1 KO). Veteran middleweights Manny “Shake Em’ Up” Woods (17-15-1, 6 KOs), of Saint Petersburg (FL), and Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (12-50-4, 8 KOs), of Dallas, will open the evening in a ten-round bout. Decorated amateur Felix Parilla (3-0, 3 KOs), of New Haven, has been added to the card in a four-round fight against junior lightweight Weusi Johnson (3-19-1). Parrilla is a 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, as well as a 2018 National Golden Gloves silver medalist. Also slated to be in action, each in four-round matches, are light heavyweight Scott “Scotty Bomb” Lampert (2-3, 2 KOs) vs. Brazilian Leonardo Ladeira (1-6, 1 KO), Springfield (MA) super middleweight Laurent Humes (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Juan Celin Zapata (6-20-2, 4 KOs), Pittsfield junior middleweight Jamer Jones (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Maycon Ollder Da Silva (0-3), Framingham’s pro-debuting light heavyweight Kevin “Lucky” Lewis vs. crosstown rival Sal “The Spider” Almeida (0-14-4), and Swansea (MA) junior middleweight Anthony Andreozzi (0-2) vs. Robert Bricks (0-8). “I am excited to showcase a big chunk of the rapidly growing Granite Chin roster,” Traietti concluded. “I have been setting out for the last 2 years to really create a roster of exciting fighters who will be regulars on major networks in the near future. If you’re looking for a night of quality, high-competitive boxing, the Sheraton on February 26h is the place to be.” Tickets are on sale for purchase at www.TicketRiver.com

Press Release | January 26, 2022

Introducing Ron Johnson's EntroBox
EntroBox LLC announced it has secured a multi-event deal with Caribe Royale Orlando that will last through the end of 2023. The official launch date is planned for March 26th. EntroBox’s full programming schedule will be announced at a press conference in the next few weeks, but the plan is for the fights to be aired across Sinclair Broadcasting Group's Bally Sports regional sports networks as well as Display TV. EntroBox's CEO is pro boxer Ron “The American Dream” Johnson, a 17-1 heavyweight, who said, "on behalf of my partner James Wilent (President of EntroBox) and our company, we are excited to kickoff 2022 and bring the next chapter in boxing and entertainment to the world starting at the Caribe Royale Orlando. As both an active fighter and a promoter, I can now say we are well positioned with our partners Sinclair and Display. Their core distribution capabilities in live sports, gamification, and social platforms provide the vast reach to the viewers and fans by way of the largest group of regional sports networks, digital platforms and now the metaverse. With this combination, we are set for 2022 and beyond.” “We look forward to EntroBox joining our growing roster of sports programming across Bally Sports and Stadium,” said Bally Sports president Steve Rosenberg. “Their approach to the sport, impressive mix of talent and strategic vision represent unique and exciting complements to our existing lineup.” “We are honored to be working with EntroBox and Bally’s Sports to bring an exciting roster of world-class boxing/entertainment events to Caribe Royale Orlando throughout 2022 and 2023,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director, Caribe Royale Orlando. “As the premiere all-suites resort in Orlando FL with a focus on creating memorable experiences for our guests and local visitors alike, this partnership provides a unique opportunity to add even more high-quality entertainment to our extensive resort offerings.”
	Introducing Ron Johnson's EntroBox EntroBox LLC announced it has secured a multi-event deal with Caribe Royale Orlando that will last through the end of 2023. The official launch date is planned for March 26th. EntroBox’s full programming schedule will be announced at a press conference in the next few weeks, but the plan is for the fights to be aired across Sinclair Broadcasting Group's Bally Sports regional sports networks as well as Display TV. EntroBox's CEO is pro boxer Ron “The American Dream” Johnson, a 17-1 heavyweight, who said, "on behalf of my partner James Wilent (President of EntroBox) and our company, we are excited to kickoff 2022 and bring the next chapter in boxing and entertainment to the world starting at the Caribe Royale Orlando. As both an active fighter and a promoter, I can now say we are well positioned with our partners Sinclair and Display. Their core distribution capabilities in live sports, gamification, and social platforms provide the vast reach to the viewers and fans by way of the largest group of regional sports networks, digital platforms and now the metaverse. With this combination, we are set for 2022 and beyond.” “We look forward to EntroBox joining our growing roster of sports programming across Bally Sports and Stadium,” said Bally Sports president Steve Rosenberg. “Their approach to the sport, impressive mix of talent and strategic vision represent unique and exciting complements to our existing lineup.” “We are honored to be working with EntroBox and Bally’s Sports to bring an exciting roster of world-class boxing/entertainment events to Caribe Royale Orlando throughout 2022 and 2023,” said Amaury Piedra, Managing Director, Caribe Royale Orlando. “As the premiere all-suites resort in Orlando FL with a focus on creating memorable experiences for our guests and local visitors alike, this partnership provides a unique opportunity to add even more high-quality entertainment to our extensive resort offerings.”

Source: WBA | January 26, 2022

Mexico City hosts lightweight action on Friday
Lightweights Marcos “Mudo” Rodriguez and Jerson Aguilar will step into the ring at the BB Auditorium in Mexico City on Friday, January 28th. Rodriguez, a/k/a Juan Marcos Rodriguez Urti, is coming off a unanimous decision loss in July against Erick Leon. Although he came out with the loss, the 25 year-old Rodriguez is 10-4 overall and showed determination throughout the ten-round fight. Aguilar (11-6) is 27 years old and a native of Mexico City. He has been a professional since 2013 and comes in on the heels of alow-level win over Yoamir Hernandez in October.
	Mexico City hosts lightweight action on Friday Lightweights Marcos “Mudo” Rodriguez and Jerson Aguilar will step into the ring at the BB Auditorium in Mexico City on Friday, January 28th. Rodriguez, a/k/a Juan Marcos Rodriguez Urti, is coming off a unanimous decision loss in July against Erick Leon. Although he came out with the loss, the 25 year-old Rodriguez is 10-4 overall and showed determination throughout the ten-round fight. Aguilar (11-6) is 27 years old and a native of Mexico City. He has been a professional since 2013 and comes in on the heels of alow-level win over Yoamir Hernandez in October.

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Fight of the year alert: JC Martinez vs. Roman Gonzalez on March 5th

Press Release | January 25, 2022

Fight of the year alert: JC Martinez vs. Roman Gonzalez on March 5th
WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez (pictured) will face former four-division champion Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (50-3 41 KOs) of Nicaragua at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California on Saturday March 5th, live worldwide on DAZN. Martinez (18-1 14 KOs) moves up to 115 pounds and does so against a legend, with the Mexican stepping in to replace countryman Juan Francisco Estrada, who has been forced out of his trilogy clash with Chocolatito due to the coronavirus. Martinez’s last outing was an all-action shootout with McWilliams Arroyo in New Hampshire in November, with both men hitting the canvas in the opening round and Martinez flooring Arroyo in the second before the contest was stopped with Arroyo suffering a cut. The exciting Mexican has spoken freely of his desire to move up in weight and challenge himself against the cream of the 115lb scene like Chocolatito and Estrada, and opportunity has knocked loudly for the 26 year old to announce himself at Super-Flyweight in San Diego and ‘El Rey’ plans to do so in style against the Nicaraguan star. “I am thrilled that I am able to move up in weight and fight the very best straight away,” said Martinez. “Chocolatito is a living legend and a fighter I have always admired, so to be fighting him in my first fight at super flyweight is special – but on the night, it’s going to be war and I am ready for it. “I have ambitions to unify the flyweight division and that flame still burns, but this fight is so huge for me, and I did not hesitate to accept it – I promise the fans that I will put on a show.” “What a fight!” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Julio has ambitions to become a pound-for-pound star, and this is what the greats do – meet huge challenges head on and take them with both hands. Chocolatito is a modern great and he’s relishing this test against El Rey – I cannot wait for this fight and I’m so happy that both men have signed on the dotted line to deliver this brilliant fight to the fans.” The undercard sees featherweight contender Mauricio Lara return to action against Emilio Sanchez... lightweight Angel Fierro faces Juan Carlos Burgos... Diego Pacheco tastes eight round action for the fourth time against Genc Pllana... Marc Castro is in his sixth pro fight... Anthony Herrera fights for the second time in the paid ranks and... Australian Skye Nicolson makes her pro debut.
	Fight of the year alert: JC Martinez vs. Roman Gonzalez on March 5th WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez (pictured) will face former four-division champion Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (50-3 41 KOs) of Nicaragua at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California on Saturday March 5th, live worldwide on DAZN. Martinez (18-1 14 KOs) moves up to 115 pounds and does so against a legend, with the Mexican stepping in to replace countryman Juan Francisco Estrada, who has been forced out of his trilogy clash with Chocolatito due to the coronavirus. Martinez’s last outing was an all-action shootout with McWilliams Arroyo in New Hampshire in November, with both men hitting the canvas in the opening round and Martinez flooring Arroyo in the second before the contest was stopped with Arroyo suffering a cut. The exciting Mexican has spoken freely of his desire to move up in weight and challenge himself against the cream of the 115lb scene like Chocolatito and Estrada, and opportunity has knocked loudly for the 26 year old to announce himself at Super-Flyweight in San Diego and ‘El Rey’ plans to do so in style against the Nicaraguan star. “I am thrilled that I am able to move up in weight and fight the very best straight away,” said Martinez. “Chocolatito is a living legend and a fighter I have always admired, so to be fighting him in my first fight at super flyweight is special – but on the night, it’s going to be war and I am ready for it. “I have ambitions to unify the flyweight division and that flame still burns, but this fight is so huge for me, and I did not hesitate to accept it – I promise the fans that I will put on a show.” “What a fight!” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Julio has ambitions to become a pound-for-pound star, and this is what the greats do – meet huge challenges head on and take them with both hands. Chocolatito is a modern great and he’s relishing this test against El Rey – I cannot wait for this fight and I’m so happy that both men have signed on the dotted line to deliver this brilliant fight to the fans.” The undercard sees featherweight contender Mauricio Lara return to action against Emilio Sanchez... lightweight Angel Fierro faces Juan Carlos Burgos... Diego Pacheco tastes eight round action for the fourth time against Genc Pllana... Marc Castro is in his sixth pro fight... Anthony Herrera fights for the second time in the paid ranks and... Australian Skye Nicolson makes her pro debut.

Source: Probellum | January 25, 2022

Regis Prograis books March return in Dubai
On March 19th, Dubai's Duty Free Tennis Stadium, will host a co-feature between former 140-pound title holder Regis Prograis (26-1, 22 KOs) and Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1, 6 KOs). Prograis (pictured) signed with Probellum in October. Prior to that, Prograis lost his WBA title in a 2019 unification bout to Josh Taylor then fought once in each of 2020 and 2021 against decent opposition. McKenna's only fight of 2021 was a hometown (Belfast, Northern Ireland) win over Mexico's Jose Felix (39-5-1). Probellum is also planning a March 18th show at the same venue. The March 19th show will be headlined by IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 KOs) defending against Pakistan's Muhammad Waseem (12-1, 8 KOs).
	Regis Prograis books March return in Dubai On March 19th, Dubai's Duty Free Tennis Stadium, will host a co-feature between former 140-pound title holder Regis Prograis (26-1, 22 KOs) and Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1, 6 KOs). Prograis (pictured) signed with Probellum in October. Prior to that, Prograis lost his WBA title in a 2019 unification bout to Josh Taylor then fought once in each of 2020 and 2021 against decent opposition. McKenna's only fight of 2021 was a hometown (Belfast, Northern Ireland) win over Mexico's Jose Felix (39-5-1). Probellum is also planning a March 18th show at the same venue. The March 19th show will be headlined by IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 KOs) defending against Pakistan's Muhammad Waseem (12-1, 8 KOs).

Source: Probellum | January 25, 2022

Sunny Edwards to defend title vs. Muhammad Waseem
Probellum announced back-to-back shows for March 18th and 19th in Dubai's Duty Free Tennis Stadium. No word on the March 18th boxers yeat, but the March 19th show will be headlined by IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 KOs) defending against Pakistan's Muhammad Waseem (12-1, 8 KOs). Waseem failed in a 2018 IBF title bid against Moruti Mthalane.Edwards won the title from Mthalane, and this will be his second defense. Probellum heads back to Dubai following its inaugural event, which took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in December, hosted by legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer. “We are absolutely delighted to be returning to Dubai for our first event of 2022,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “Probellum has made a huge impact in the boxing world in a short period and we have some major plans for this year, starting with these two history-making shows in Dubai. There was a fantastic response to our first-ever event, which took place in Dubai at the end of last year, and we know there is a big appetite for boxing in the city. The March 19th co-feature sees former 140-pound title holder Regis Prograis (26-1, 22 KOs) clash with Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1, 6 KOs).
	Sunny Edwards to defend title vs. Muhammad Waseem Probellum announced back-to-back shows for March 18th and 19th in Dubai's Duty Free Tennis Stadium. No word on the March 18th boxers yeat, but the March 19th show will be headlined by IBF flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 KOs) defending against Pakistan's Muhammad Waseem (12-1, 8 KOs). Waseem failed in a 2018 IBF title bid against Moruti Mthalane.Edwards won the title from Mthalane, and this will be his second defense. Probellum heads back to Dubai following its inaugural event, which took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in December, hosted by legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer. “We are absolutely delighted to be returning to Dubai for our first event of 2022,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “Probellum has made a huge impact in the boxing world in a short period and we have some major plans for this year, starting with these two history-making shows in Dubai. There was a fantastic response to our first-ever event, which took place in Dubai at the end of last year, and we know there is a big appetite for boxing in the city. The March 19th co-feature sees former 140-pound title holder Regis Prograis (26-1, 22 KOs) clash with Tyrone McKenna (22-2-1, 6 KOs).

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Sor Rungvisai and Cuadras on pace to make weight for Feb. 5th

Source: WBC | January 25, 2022

Sor Rungvisai and Cuadras on pace to make weight for Feb. 5th
Thailand's Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (50-5-1 43 KOs) and Mexico's Carlos Cuadras (39-4-1 27 KOs) will rekindle their rivalry with the WBC's secondary super flyweight belt at stake at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday February 5th. The two warriors first fought in May 2014, with Cuadras claiming the crown via technical decision after an accidental clash of heads. Both fighters completed their pre-weigh-in two weeks prior to the fight. Cuadras weighed in at 54.5 kg (120.1 pounds), while Sor Rungvisai weighed in at 54.6 kg (120.3). The card will be broadcast live on DAZN.
	Sor Rungvisai and Cuadras on pace to make weight for Feb. 5th Thailand's Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (50-5-1 43 KOs) and Mexico's Carlos Cuadras (39-4-1 27 KOs) will rekindle their rivalry with the WBC's secondary super flyweight belt at stake at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday February 5th. The two warriors first fought in May 2014, with Cuadras claiming the crown via technical decision after an accidental clash of heads. Both fighters completed their pre-weigh-in two weeks prior to the fight. Cuadras weighed in at 54.5 kg (120.1 pounds), while Sor Rungvisai weighed in at 54.6 kg (120.3). The card will be broadcast live on DAZN.

By Scott Shaffer | January 25, 2022

Is Joshua mulling a step-aside offer?
Former three-belt heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has the contractual right to rematch with his recent conqueror, Oleksandr Usyk. However, reports have been published saying Joshua may accept a large step-aside payment to let Usyk unify his three belts with Tyson Fury's fourth one. Joshua released a cryptic video denying any deal has been consummated, but he did not deny he was considering such a move: "I see certain interviews that quote what I said and I think to myself, 'I ain’t done no interviews. Where did this person get this information from?' I’m hearing people saying 'AJ accepts 15 million pounds [$20.2 million] to step aside.' I didn’t sign no contract and I didn’t see no contract. So as it stands, stop listening to the bullsit until it comes from me. I’m the man in control of my destiny. I’m the man that handles my business. I’m a smart individual and I make calculated decisions every step of the way. Don’t listen to the bullsht from other sources. if I tell you something, then you know it is real.”
	Is Joshua mulling a step-aside offer? Former three-belt heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has the contractual right to rematch with his recent conqueror, Oleksandr Usyk. However, reports have been published saying Joshua may accept a large step-aside payment to let Usyk unify his three belts with Tyson Fury's fourth one. Joshua released a cryptic video denying any deal has been consummated, but he did not deny he was considering such a move: "I see certain interviews that quote what I said and I think to myself, 'I ain’t done no interviews. Where did this person get this information from?' I’m hearing people saying 'AJ accepts 15 million pounds [$20.2 million] to step aside.' I didn’t sign no contract and I didn’t see no contract. So as it stands, stop listening to the bullsit until it comes from me. I’m the man in control of my destiny. I’m the man that handles my business. I’m a smart individual and I make calculated decisions every step of the way. Don’t listen to the bullsht from other sources. if I tell you something, then you know it is real.”

Press Release | January 25, 2022

Colbert lands title shot vs. Gutierrez
Roger Gutierrez will defends his WBA super featherweight title on Saturday, February 26th against undefeated Chris “Primetime” Colbert (pictred) in the Showtime main event at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The Showtime Championship Boxing telecast kicks off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature Gary Antuanne Russell, a 2016 U.S. Olympian against former 140-pound title holder Viktor Postol in a ten-round bout, while IBF junior bantamweight champion Jerwin Ancajas defends his title against unbeaten Argentine Fernando Martinez in the televised opener. Tickets for the live event are on sale now, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com. “We’ve had the pleasure of watching Chris Colbert develop from a prospect to a contender on Showtime, so it’s only fitting that he will get a chance to take yet another step in his progression with a title shot against Roger Gutierrez on our network,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gary Antuanne Russell is following a similar recipe for stardom. If he can turn back the tough-as-nails Viktor Postol, it will be another signal that his time in the spotlight may soon be at hand. We’ve seen the destructive talents of Jerwin Ancajas before. His title defense against Fernando Martinez should be a barnburner and the perfect start to a fantastic night of boxing.” The 26 year-old Gutierrez (26-3-1, 20 KOs) captured his title with a unanimous decision victory over Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado in January 2021, in a fight that saw him drop his opponent three times. Gutierrez followed up that performance by defeating Alvarado a second time in August 2021, again earning a unanimous decision. Fighting out of his native Maracaibo, Venezuela, Gutierrez is unbeaten in his last seven outings, including four knockouts. “First of all, I want to thank God, my mother, my team, my promoter and the WBA for this opportunity,” said Gutierrez. “It cost me a lot of effort to win the world championship, this is my second title defense and I am ready to give it my all to retain it. On February 26, I am going to show the world that I am the best at 130 pounds.” Representing his native Brooklyn, New York, Colbert (16-0, 6 KOs) has quickly shot up the 130-pound rankings, taking on high-level competition in his first 16 pro fights. Already established as a fighter with dazzling boxing skills, Colbert showcased his ability to fight toe-to-toe with an eleventh-round stoppage of Jaime Arboleda in December 2020 before most recently besting Tugstsogt Nyambayar in July 2021. The 25 year-old turned pro in 2015 and defeated three unbeaten fighters in his first eight contests. Prior to the Arboleda fight, Colbert scored a highlight-reel first-round knockout against Miguel Beltran Jr. in September 2019 and a twelve-round decision victory over former champion Jezzreel Corrales in January 2020. “I’m super ready for my title shot," said Colbert. "This has been a long time coming, but it's no shocker to me. This was always the expectation. I know Gutierrez will come to fight. He's a champion for a reason. So he's not coming to lay down. But I plan to put him down and I’m willing to do whatever I have to do on February 26 to make that happen. I know a lot of people have been waiting to see when I get this title shot and now it's time." Russell (14-0, 14 KOs) has yet to allow an opponent to make it the distance against him since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Russell added five more stoppage victories in 2019 before knocking out Jose Marrufo in the first round in February 2020. The 25 year-old most recently dominated Jovanie Santiago in May on his way to a sixth-round stoppage. Russell belongs to one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families and trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC featherweight champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. "I'm going to make sure I'm prepared mentally and ready to perform at a high-level for this fight," said Russell. "These fights come down to who's more mentally stable, and that's a matter of training. I train my mental as much as I do physically. I've watched Postol fight before and I know that he's a rangy fighter with a European style. He likes to stay at a distance and that works best for him. He leans on his strengths. Every fight I come in planning to make a statement. My prediction, I'm ending this fight in round five." Postol (31-3, 12 KOs) returns to the ring after losing a narrow majority decision to then unified champion Jose Ramirez in August 2020. Fighting out of California and originally from Ukraine, Postol, knocked out Lucas Matthysse in 2015 to capture a vacant title before losing a unification showdown to Terence Crawford. Postol has won three of his last five fights, with the only defeats in that stretch coming against Ramirez and current undisputed champion Josh Taylor, both by decision. “I accepted this fight as soon as it was offered,” said Postol. “I haven’t fought in a while and I wanted to get back in the ring as soon as I could. I’m especially excited that I’m going to have the opportunity to face a good young opponent on February 26th.” Representing the Philippines, Ancajas (33-1-2, 22 KOs) was only 15 years old when he was spotted by boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. The young fighter blossomed with Pacquiao’s guidance, becoming the first world champion under Pacquiao’s promotional banner when he outpointed McJoe Arroyo for the IBF title in September 2016. The 30 year-old southpaw hasn’t lost since and will be making the tenth defense of his title, following an April 2021 unanimous decision over Jonathan Rodriguez. “I am thrilled to be back on Showtime defending my world title on February 26,” said Ancajas. “It’s very exciting to be making my tenth world title defense in the first Las Vegas fight of my career." A resident of Buenos Aires, Martinez (13-0, 8 KOs) most recently knocked out Gonzalo Duran in the fourth round of their August 2021 showdown and will be making his U.S. debut on February 26. The 30 year old stopped Athenkosi Dumezweni in his home country of South Africa in 2019, following that up with a decision over Angel Aquino in December 2020. Martinez turned pro in 2017 and owns an amateur victory over super flyweight contender Andrew Moloney. “I’m excited to have this great chance to show my skills on the big stage in Las Vegas,” said Martinez. “I’m going to leave it all in the ring on February 26 and give all the fans watching an exciting fight. My goal is to become world champion and this is the night for me to prove myself.”
	Colbert lands title shot vs. Gutierrez Roger Gutierrez will defends his WBA super featherweight title on Saturday, February 26th against undefeated Chris “Primetime” Colbert (pictred) in the Showtime main event at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The Showtime Championship Boxing telecast kicks off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature Gary Antuanne Russell, a 2016 U.S. Olympian against former 140-pound title holder Viktor Postol in a ten-round bout, while IBF junior bantamweight champion Jerwin Ancajas defends his title against unbeaten Argentine Fernando Martinez in the televised opener. Tickets for the live event are on sale now, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com. “We’ve had the pleasure of watching Chris Colbert develop from a prospect to a contender on Showtime, so it’s only fitting that he will get a chance to take yet another step in his progression with a title shot against Roger Gutierrez on our network,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gary Antuanne Russell is following a similar recipe for stardom. If he can turn back the tough-as-nails Viktor Postol, it will be another signal that his time in the spotlight may soon be at hand. We’ve seen the destructive talents of Jerwin Ancajas before. His title defense against Fernando Martinez should be a barnburner and the perfect start to a fantastic night of boxing.” The 26 year-old Gutierrez (26-3-1, 20 KOs) captured his title with a unanimous decision victory over Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado in January 2021, in a fight that saw him drop his opponent three times. Gutierrez followed up that performance by defeating Alvarado a second time in August 2021, again earning a unanimous decision. Fighting out of his native Maracaibo, Venezuela, Gutierrez is unbeaten in his last seven outings, including four knockouts. “First of all, I want to thank God, my mother, my team, my promoter and the WBA for this opportunity,” said Gutierrez. “It cost me a lot of effort to win the world championship, this is my second title defense and I am ready to give it my all to retain it. On February 26, I am going to show the world that I am the best at 130 pounds.” Representing his native Brooklyn, New York, Colbert (16-0, 6 KOs) has quickly shot up the 130-pound rankings, taking on high-level competition in his first 16 pro fights. Already established as a fighter with dazzling boxing skills, Colbert showcased his ability to fight toe-to-toe with an eleventh-round stoppage of Jaime Arboleda in December 2020 before most recently besting Tugstsogt Nyambayar in July 2021. The 25 year-old turned pro in 2015 and defeated three unbeaten fighters in his first eight contests. Prior to the Arboleda fight, Colbert scored a highlight-reel first-round knockout against Miguel Beltran Jr. in September 2019 and a twelve-round decision victory over former champion Jezzreel Corrales in January 2020. “I’m super ready for my title shot," said Colbert. "This has been a long time coming, but it's no shocker to me. This was always the expectation. I know Gutierrez will come to fight. He's a champion for a reason. So he's not coming to lay down. But I plan to put him down and I’m willing to do whatever I have to do on February 26 to make that happen. I know a lot of people have been waiting to see when I get this title shot and now it's time." Russell (14-0, 14 KOs) has yet to allow an opponent to make it the distance against him since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Russell added five more stoppage victories in 2019 before knocking out Jose Marrufo in the first round in February 2020. The 25 year-old most recently dominated Jovanie Santiago in May on his way to a sixth-round stoppage. Russell belongs to one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families and trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC featherweight champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. "I'm going to make sure I'm prepared mentally and ready to perform at a high-level for this fight," said Russell. "These fights come down to who's more mentally stable, and that's a matter of training. I train my mental as much as I do physically. I've watched Postol fight before and I know that he's a rangy fighter with a European style. He likes to stay at a distance and that works best for him. He leans on his strengths. Every fight I come in planning to make a statement. My prediction, I'm ending this fight in round five." Postol (31-3, 12 KOs) returns to the ring after losing a narrow majority decision to then unified champion Jose Ramirez in August 2020. Fighting out of California and originally from Ukraine, Postol, knocked out Lucas Matthysse in 2015 to capture a vacant title before losing a unification showdown to Terence Crawford. Postol has won three of his last five fights, with the only defeats in that stretch coming against Ramirez and current undisputed champion Josh Taylor, both by decision. “I accepted this fight as soon as it was offered,” said Postol. “I haven’t fought in a while and I wanted to get back in the ring as soon as I could. I’m especially excited that I’m going to have the opportunity to face a good young opponent on February 26th.” Representing the Philippines, Ancajas (33-1-2, 22 KOs) was only 15 years old when he was spotted by boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. The young fighter blossomed with Pacquiao’s guidance, becoming the first world champion under Pacquiao’s promotional banner when he outpointed McJoe Arroyo for the IBF title in September 2016. The 30 year-old southpaw hasn’t lost since and will be making the tenth defense of his title, following an April 2021 unanimous decision over Jonathan Rodriguez. “I am thrilled to be back on Showtime defending my world title on February 26,” said Ancajas. “It’s very exciting to be making my tenth world title defense in the first Las Vegas fight of my career." A resident of Buenos Aires, Martinez (13-0, 8 KOs) most recently knocked out Gonzalo Duran in the fourth round of their August 2021 showdown and will be making his U.S. debut on February 26. The 30 year old stopped Athenkosi Dumezweni in his home country of South Africa in 2019, following that up with a decision over Angel Aquino in December 2020. Martinez turned pro in 2017 and owns an amateur victory over super flyweight contender Andrew Moloney. “I’m excited to have this great chance to show my skills on the big stage in Las Vegas,” said Martinez. “I’m going to leave it all in the ring on February 26 and give all the fans watching an exciting fight. My goal is to become world champion and this is the night for me to prove myself.”

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Source: WBC | January 25, 2022

WBC previews Makabu vs. Mchunu II
WBC cruiserweight champion Junior Ilunga Makabu (pictured), from the Congo, defends his title for the second time, against Thabiso Mchunu on January 29th at the Packard Music Hall in Warren Ohio. The southpaws clashed for the first time in May 2015. On that occasion, it was an action-packed WBC eliminator. Mchunu dominated the first half of the bout, peppering the slow starting Makbu with accurate jabs, combinations and uppercuts. He launched an onslaught in the third rocking the taller Makabu, who was glad to hear the bell to end the round. But it proved to be a fight of two distinct halves containing multi segments. After the sixth, resilient Makabu came into his own, and started to force the pace. Mchunu says that he initially found Ilunga an easy target to hit, went all out for the KO, didn`t pace himself and gassed. Makabu dished out severe punishment in the ninth and tenth and then closed the show with a left uppercut, felling Mchunu who couldn`t beat the count. Six years later, the two are poised to launch a second volley of fireworks in a Don King Promotions show. Makabu, age 34, has a record of 28-2 with 25 KO`s. He lost his pro debut against Khayeni Hlungwane via a first round TKO. From there he progressed with a string of KOs. We had to wait eight years before his next defeat at the hands of Tony Bellew for the vacant WBC title on Bellew`s home turf of Goodison Park, Liverpool. This followed Makabu's victory over Mchunu. Makabu dropped Bellew in round one with a left hook, which summersaulted him backwards. In the words of Bellew`s Trainer Dave Coldwell, Bellew got greedy and was caught. But Bellew made amends in the third round, dropping Makabu with a massive right, to close the show with a KO. Makabu patiently waited for his next opportunity and went to Russia where he stopped Dmitry Kudryashov. Then a majority decision win over Aleksei Papin and the next fight was against Poland`s Michal Cieslak for the vacant WBC title. Cieslak started strong and had Ilunga in trouble in round three, but Makabu again showed his ability to reverse adversity, knocking his opponent down in the fourth. He got stronger as the fight progressed in front of his adoring fans in Kinshasa and won a UD. And in his first title defense, also in Kinshasa, he TKO`d Olanrewaja Durodola. So now it`s time to fight Thabiso Mchunu, all over again. Thabiso Mchunu has been in Mexico City for ten days, with his Coach Sean Smith and his team, training in the White Collar Gym on Palmas Avenue. They`ve secured visas from the US Embassy here to smooth their journey to Ohio. Mchunu`s pro debut was in 2007. He`s built a record of 28 fights with 23 wins including 13 KO`s and 5 losses. In his second fight after the defeat by Ilunga he fought the mighty Oleksandr Usyk, who put him down in the sixth and twice in the ninth for a KO victory. Mchunu`s nickname is The Rock, because he`s overcome adversity to become the number one challenger. He lost a close majority decision to Thomas Oosthuizen and then in his next fight defeated him by unanimous decision. He went to Russia to defeat Denis Lebedev and back to Russia again to defeat Evgeny Tishchenko, both by decision. Those wins earned him his opportunity to fight for the title. Mchunu says he`s been in training camp for four months for this fight I\and has prepared to go twelve hard rounds. He`s five feet eleven inches tall and has a seventy two and a half inch reach. Makabu is six feet tall and has a seventy four inch reach. Somehow, they look taller and shorter than that? In their first fight, both stood toe to toe and swopped a lot of very hard punches. It`s likely they will also fight at relatively short range this time and it`ll be another slugfest. Ilunga will look to start a lot faster in this one, while Thabiso will conserve his stamina. Both favor going to the body and throwing uppercuts upstairs. Like their first encounter, it`s unlikely to go the distance. The obvious immediate focus is on each other. But the winner might have an opportunity for an even bigger payday. At the World Boxing Council Convention in Mexico City, Saul Canelo`s manager Eddy Reynoso gained permission for Alvarez o fight against Ilunga. This might be on Cinco de Mayo, if Makabu comes through this test. Alvarez is keen to become the first Mexican boxer to win world titles in five weight categories.
	WBC previews Makabu vs. Mchunu II WBC cruiserweight champion Junior Ilunga Makabu (pictured), from the Congo, defends his title for the second time, against Thabiso Mchunu on January 29th at the Packard Music Hall in Warren Ohio. The southpaws clashed for the first time in May 2015. On that occasion, it was an action-packed WBC eliminator. Mchunu dominated the first half of the bout, peppering the slow starting Makbu with accurate jabs, combinations and uppercuts. He launched an onslaught in the third rocking the taller Makabu, who was glad to hear the bell to end the round. But it proved to be a fight of two distinct halves containing multi segments. After the sixth, resilient Makabu came into his own, and started to force the pace. Mchunu says that he initially found Ilunga an easy target to hit, went all out for the KO, didn`t pace himself and gassed. Makabu dished out severe punishment in the ninth and tenth and then closed the show with a left uppercut, felling Mchunu who couldn`t beat the count. Six years later, the two are poised to launch a second volley of fireworks in a Don King Promotions show. Makabu, age 34, has a record of 28-2 with 25 KO`s. He lost his pro debut against Khayeni Hlungwane via a first round TKO. From there he progressed with a string of KOs. We had to wait eight years before his next defeat at the hands of Tony Bellew for the vacant WBC title on Bellew`s home turf of Goodison Park, Liverpool. This followed Makabu's victory over Mchunu. Makabu dropped Bellew in round one with a left hook, which summersaulted him backwards. In the words of Bellew`s Trainer Dave Coldwell, Bellew got greedy and was caught. But Bellew made amends in the third round, dropping Makabu with a massive right, to close the show with a KO. Makabu patiently waited for his next opportunity and went to Russia where he stopped Dmitry Kudryashov. Then a majority decision win over Aleksei Papin and the next fight was against Poland`s Michal Cieslak for the vacant WBC title. Cieslak started strong and had Ilunga in trouble in round three, but Makabu again showed his ability to reverse adversity, knocking his opponent down in the fourth. He got stronger as the fight progressed in front of his adoring fans in Kinshasa and won a UD. And in his first title defense, also in Kinshasa, he TKO`d Olanrewaja Durodola. So now it`s time to fight Thabiso Mchunu, all over again. Thabiso Mchunu has been in Mexico City for ten days, with his Coach Sean Smith and his team, training in the White Collar Gym on Palmas Avenue. They`ve secured visas from the US Embassy here to smooth their journey to Ohio. Mchunu`s pro debut was in 2007. He`s built a record of 28 fights with 23 wins including 13 KO`s and 5 losses. In his second fight after the defeat by Ilunga he fought the mighty Oleksandr Usyk, who put him down in the sixth and twice in the ninth for a KO victory. Mchunu`s nickname is The Rock, because he`s overcome adversity to become the number one challenger. He lost a close majority decision to Thomas Oosthuizen and then in his next fight defeated him by unanimous decision. He went to Russia to defeat Denis Lebedev and back to Russia again to defeat Evgeny Tishchenko, both by decision. Those wins earned him his opportunity to fight for the title. Mchunu says he`s been in training camp for four months for this fight I\and has prepared to go twelve hard rounds. He`s five feet eleven inches tall and has a seventy two and a half inch reach. Makabu is six feet tall and has a seventy four inch reach. Somehow, they look taller and shorter than that? In their first fight, both stood toe to toe and swopped a lot of very hard punches. It`s likely they will also fight at relatively short range this time and it`ll be another slugfest. Ilunga will look to start a lot faster in this one, while Thabiso will conserve his stamina. Both favor going to the body and throwing uppercuts upstairs. Like their first encounter, it`s unlikely to go the distance. The obvious immediate focus is on each other. But the winner might have an opportunity for an even bigger payday. At the World Boxing Council Convention in Mexico City, Saul Canelo`s manager Eddy Reynoso gained permission for Alvarez o fight against Ilunga. This might be on Cinco de Mayo, if Makabu comes through this test. Alvarez is keen to become the first Mexican boxer to win world titles in five weight categories.

Source: WBA | January 25, 2022

WBA orders Akhmadaliev to make mandatory defense in 90 days
The WBA gave Murodjon Akhmadaliev a deadline of 90 days, or until April 24th, to carry out a mandatory defense of the WBA 122-pound championship against challenger Ronny Rios. Matchroom Boxing won the rights to promote the fight in May 2021. However, the fight was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic and Akhmadaliev received special permission to defend against Jose Velazquez last November. [The problem is Akhmadaliev also holds the IBF championship and may face conflicting mandatory obligations].
	WBA orders Akhmadaliev to make mandatory defense in 90 days The WBA gave Murodjon Akhmadaliev a deadline of 90 days, or until April 24th, to carry out a mandatory defense of the WBA 122-pound championship against challenger Ronny Rios. Matchroom Boxing won the rights to promote the fight in May 2021. However, the fight was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic and Akhmadaliev received special permission to defend against Jose Velazquez last November. [The problem is Akhmadaliev also holds the IBF championship and may face conflicting mandatory obligations].

Source: Salita Promotions | January 25, 2022

Antonio Todd defeats Hugo Centeno
Antonio Todd W10 Hugo Centeno Jr. .... On Saturday night in Dearborn, Michigan, Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr. (28-4-1, 15 KOs) dropped a majority decision to skillful but unheralded Antonio Todd (13-5, 7 KOs) in a ten-round middleweight bout. Fighting in front of an enthusiastic crowd, the brisk pace seemed to tire Centeno out in the later rounds, which allowed the determined Todd to climb back into the mix and ultimately scrape out a 97-93, 95-95 and 96-94 majority decision win in an entertaining fight. Winfred Harris Jr. W8 Esau Herrera... In a hotly contested eight rounder, Detroit’s Winfred “Hotboy” Harris Jr. (21-1-1, 10 KOs) returned home for the first time in three years to take a close but unanimous decision over Mexico City’s durable Esau Herrera (19-14-1, 8 KOs). Harris employed a sapping body attack to keep the game Herrera from turning the tide. The super middleweight Harris was rewarded with a respectable 75-73, 77-75 and 79-73 verdict. ADDITIONAL BOUTS In a pair of anticipated Grand Rapids-centric pro debuts featured on the show, would-be 2020 U.S. Olympic team member Joseph Hicks Jr. is now 1-0 after a fourth-round stoppage (2:33) over St Louis' Montrel James (1-8). In the other pro debut, lightweight former amateur national champion Joshua Pagan (1-0, 1 KO) scored two knockdowns in a second-round knockout win over Ohio's Glenn Mitchell (3-7, 3 KOs). In the supporting bouts, Detroit super middleweight Gordie Russ II (3-0, 3 KOs) made a successful debut with super trainer Sugar Hill Steward in his corner by scoring two knockdowns to stop over Leslie Michael Klekotta (3-8, 2 KOs) in a little over half of round one. Detroit middleweight Marlon Harrington (6-0, 5 KOs) furthered his lengthening trail of destruction by beating down Georgia’s Terry Roscoe (2-9) in less than two minutes. Harrington had the reeling Roscoe down twice before finalizing things at 1:44 of the first. The bout had been scheduled for six. “I am disappointed in the outcome for my fighter, Hugo Centeno,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “But I’m also proud to be putting on the kinds of shows where upset like this can happen. Both of the main fight were tough, competitive bouts and the undercard had a lot of action for the big Detroit boxing crowd to enjoy. I’m very happy with the quality of the event. A ticket to a Detroit Brawl will always mean an exciting night at the fights.” Hugo Centeno is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment. Salita Promotions’ Detroit Brawl will return on March 6, 2022.
	Antonio Todd defeats Hugo Centeno Antonio Todd W10 Hugo Centeno Jr. .... On Saturday night in Dearborn, Michigan, Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr. (28-4-1, 15 KOs) dropped a majority decision to skillful but unheralded Antonio Todd (13-5, 7 KOs) in a ten-round middleweight bout. Fighting in front of an enthusiastic crowd, the brisk pace seemed to tire Centeno out in the later rounds, which allowed the determined Todd to climb back into the mix and ultimately scrape out a 97-93, 95-95 and 96-94 majority decision win in an entertaining fight. Winfred Harris Jr. W8 Esau Herrera... In a hotly contested eight rounder, Detroit’s Winfred “Hotboy” Harris Jr. (21-1-1, 10 KOs) returned home for the first time in three years to take a close but unanimous decision over Mexico City’s durable Esau Herrera (19-14-1, 8 KOs). Harris employed a sapping body attack to keep the game Herrera from turning the tide. The super middleweight Harris was rewarded with a respectable 75-73, 77-75 and 79-73 verdict. ADDITIONAL BOUTS In a pair of anticipated Grand Rapids-centric pro debuts featured on the show, would-be 2020 U.S. Olympic team member Joseph Hicks Jr. is now 1-0 after a fourth-round stoppage (2:33) over St Louis' Montrel James (1-8). In the other pro debut, lightweight former amateur national champion Joshua Pagan (1-0, 1 KO) scored two knockdowns in a second-round knockout win over Ohio's Glenn Mitchell (3-7, 3 KOs). In the supporting bouts, Detroit super middleweight Gordie Russ II (3-0, 3 KOs) made a successful debut with super trainer Sugar Hill Steward in his corner by scoring two knockdowns to stop over Leslie Michael Klekotta (3-8, 2 KOs) in a little over half of round one. Detroit middleweight Marlon Harrington (6-0, 5 KOs) furthered his lengthening trail of destruction by beating down Georgia’s Terry Roscoe (2-9) in less than two minutes. Harrington had the reeling Roscoe down twice before finalizing things at 1:44 of the first. The bout had been scheduled for six. “I am disappointed in the outcome for my fighter, Hugo Centeno,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “But I’m also proud to be putting on the kinds of shows where upset like this can happen. Both of the main fight were tough, competitive bouts and the undercard had a lot of action for the big Detroit boxing crowd to enjoy. I’m very happy with the quality of the event. A ticket to a Detroit Brawl will always mean an exciting night at the fights.” Hugo Centeno is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment. Salita Promotions’ Detroit Brawl will return on March 6, 2022.

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South African news: Lerena vs. Dinu pushed back

Source: Golden Gloves (Rodney Berman) | January 25, 2022

South African news: Lerena vs. Dinu pushed back
A heavyweight fight between South Africa's Kevin Lerena and Romania's Bogdan Dinu, scheduled for Emperor’s Palace in Kempton Park, has been moved one week later to March 26th, according to promoter Rodney Berman's website. Lerena is a former IBO cruiserweight champion looking for his first true heavyweight test. Lerena (26-1) vs. Dinu (20-3) is scheduled for twelve rounds.
	South African news: Lerena vs. Dinu pushed back A heavyweight fight between South Africa's Kevin Lerena and Romania's Bogdan Dinu, scheduled for Emperor’s Palace in Kempton Park, has been moved one week later to March 26th, according to promoter Rodney Berman's website. Lerena is a former IBO cruiserweight champion looking for his first true heavyweight test. Lerena (26-1) vs. Dinu (20-3) is scheduled for twelve rounds.

Source: 13th Round Boxing | January 25, 2022

Mexican update: Tijuana card set for Friday
On Friday January 28th at the Grand Hotel in Tijuana, promoter Eric Ibarra's TM Boxing presents a flyweight main event featuring Adrian Curiel Dominguez (18-4) vs. Hugo Hernandez Aguilar (18-6-1). In the lightweight co-feature, Francisco Lopez (13-0-1) battles Edgar Monarrez (22-3-2).
	Mexican update: Tijuana card set for Friday On Friday January 28th at the Grand Hotel in Tijuana, promoter Eric Ibarra's TM Boxing presents a flyweight main event featuring Adrian Curiel Dominguez (18-4) vs. Hugo Hernandez Aguilar (18-6-1). In the lightweight co-feature, Francisco Lopez (13-0-1) battles Edgar Monarrez (22-3-2).

Source: WBA | January 24, 2022

WBA orders Tank Davis to face Rolly Romero
The WBA Championships Committee has ordered its regular lightweight champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis to defend against undefeated former WBA interim title holder Rolando Romero. The WBA says that formal communication were sent to both teams and the boxers now have thirty days, through February 24th, to reach an agreement or face a purse bid. Davis vs. Romero had been previously ordered and scheduled for December 5th but accusations of sexual assault against Romero prevented the bout from taking place. Davis instead defeated Isaac Cruz in his most recent fight. Prosecutors then declined to press charges against Romero after conducting an investigation. Davis holds the WBA's secondary title, as the WBA's super championship belongs to undisputed world champion George Kambosos of Australia.
	WBA orders Tank Davis to face Rolly Romero The WBA Championships Committee has ordered its regular lightweight champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis to defend against undefeated former WBA interim title holder Rolando Romero. The WBA says that formal communication were sent to both teams and the boxers now have thirty days, through February 24th, to reach an agreement or face a purse bid. Davis vs. Romero had been previously ordered and scheduled for December 5th but accusations of sexual assault against Romero prevented the bout from taking place. Davis instead defeated Isaac Cruz in his most recent fight. Prosecutors then declined to press charges against Romero after conducting an investigation. Davis holds the WBA's secondary title, as the WBA's super championship belongs to undisputed world champion George Kambosos of Australia.

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Twitter Chatter: Shields-Marshall trash talk heats up

Source: Twitter | January 24, 2022

Twitter Chatter: Shields-Marshall trash talk heats up
WBO middleweight champion Savannah Marshall to future opponent, WBC/IBF/WBA champion Claressa Shields: "Your next opponent [Ema Kozin] has declined a fight with me thre times yet accepted a fight with you, wonder why, pillow fists." Shields' response: "You're a bum, you only fight last minute replacements, and I can’t wait to whoop her ass and smoke you next."
	Twitter Chatter: Shields-Marshall trash talk heats up WBO middleweight champion Savannah Marshall to future opponent, WBC/IBF/WBA champion Claressa Shields: "Your next opponent [Ema Kozin] has declined a fight with me thre times yet accepted a fight with you, wonder why, pillow fists." Shields' response: "You're a bum, you only fight last minute replacements, and I can’t wait to whoop her ass and smoke you next."

Source: MTK | January 24, 2022

European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor added to Feb. 11th show
European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor will return to the ring on next month’s MTK Fight Night when he faces dangerous Argentine Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-4, 12 KOs) in a non-title fight. The card will be held on Friday February 11th and be broadcast live in the US on ESPN+ and worldwide on IFL TV. Middleweight Danny Dignum faces Grant Dennis in the main event. McGregor (11-0, 9 KOs) was last in action in August, when he stopped Vincent Legrand in the fourth round to retain his title. Two fights ago, McGregor had a blistering first-round knockout win over Karim Guerfi in March 2021. The Edinburgh star now turns his attention to his showdown with Ruiz, who has shared the ring with Michael Conlan and Shabaz Masoud in recent years. McGregor said: “I’m buzzing to get back in the ring. It’s been a frustrating few months after my December fell fell through and then receiving the news about Kash Farooq [retired from boxing due to injury], so I’m delighted that we now have this date. I stayed on it over Christmas and it has paid off as now I’ve been able to step in and fight with not much notice needed, so hopefully it’s the start of a very bright 2022. Ruiz is tough and comes and have a go, and that’s exactly what I want. I don’t want a journeyman coming to lie down just because I’ve not fought for a bit, I want someone who comes to win as that’s when you see my at my best. I’m hoping to make a statement and be dominant, and show people what I’ve improved on, as I’m continuing to improve every single month.” Elsewhere on next month’s show, Nina Hughes faces Bec Connolly, Shiloh Defreitas takes on Alexey Tukhtarov, Joe Giles meets Lewis van Poetsch, Bilal Fawaz makes his professional debut against Vladimir Fleischhauer, Jordan Flynn clashes with Lee Hallet, Will Hamilton goes up against Jone Volau, and George Mitchell fights Vasif Mamedov.
	European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor added to Feb. 11th show European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor will return to the ring on next month’s MTK Fight Night when he faces dangerous Argentine Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-4, 12 KOs) in a non-title fight. The card will be held on Friday February 11th and be broadcast live in the US on ESPN+ and worldwide on IFL TV. Middleweight Danny Dignum faces Grant Dennis in the main event. McGregor (11-0, 9 KOs) was last in action in August, when he stopped Vincent Legrand in the fourth round to retain his title. Two fights ago, McGregor had a blistering first-round knockout win over Karim Guerfi in March 2021. The Edinburgh star now turns his attention to his showdown with Ruiz, who has shared the ring with Michael Conlan and Shabaz Masoud in recent years. McGregor said: “I’m buzzing to get back in the ring. It’s been a frustrating few months after my December fell fell through and then receiving the news about Kash Farooq [retired from boxing due to injury], so I’m delighted that we now have this date. I stayed on it over Christmas and it has paid off as now I’ve been able to step in and fight with not much notice needed, so hopefully it’s the start of a very bright 2022. Ruiz is tough and comes and have a go, and that’s exactly what I want. I don’t want a journeyman coming to lie down just because I’ve not fought for a bit, I want someone who comes to win as that’s when you see my at my best. I’m hoping to make a statement and be dominant, and show people what I’ve improved on, as I’m continuing to improve every single month.” Elsewhere on next month’s show, Nina Hughes faces Bec Connolly, Shiloh Defreitas takes on Alexey Tukhtarov, Joe Giles meets Lewis van Poetsch, Bilal Fawaz makes his professional debut against Vladimir Fleischhauer, Jordan Flynn clashes with Lee Hallet, Will Hamilton goes up against Jone Volau, and George Mitchell fights Vasif Mamedov.

Press Release | January 24, 2022

Scottish heavyweight championship to return after 71-year vacancy
The Scottish heavyweight championship was last contested in 1951 when George VI was king of the UK, Ezzard Charles was the world heavyweight champion; Nat King Cole had the hit Too Young; Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh lit up the big screen in A Streetcar Named Desire; Tottenham Hotspur were Football League Champions and the video tape recorder was invented. Now, 71 years later, the ‘Vacant’ tag will be removed from the title when Glasgow giants Nick ‘The Glasgow Warrior’ Campbell (4-0, 4 KOs) and Jay ‘The Ghost’ McFarlane (12-5, 5 KOs) collide for the Caledonian mantle on the undercard of the world 140-pound championship clash between Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall on Saturday February 26th, promoted by Boxxer and Top Rank, at the OVO Hydro, Glasgow, live and exclusive on Sky Sports. When Glasgow rivals George Stern and Hugh McDonald challenged for the title at the Recreation Ground in Alloa in June 1951, Stern came out the victor that night, winning in the seventh round after McDonald was disqualified for a low blow, but Campbell and McFarlane are both promising to deliver a more conclusive ending in their fight. In the 2022 fight, Campbell, a former professional rugby player with the Glasgow Warriors and Jersey Reds, has raced to a perfect unbeaten four fights winning all by KO in just eight rounds of action. The 6'7" giant, is also on a mission to become the first ever Scot to win the British heavyweight title. Campbell said, “this is a massive fight card and brilliant opportunity to shine in my home city and live on Sky Sports. I’m shocked that the title hasn’t been contested for so long but it will be firmly around my waist come the end of the fight. McFarlane’s a tough guy, but he’s just another guy standing in the way of my goal and what I want to achieve in the sport. I aim to put on a thorough professional performance and get that stoppage. The British title is my aspiration, one step at a time though, McFarlane is my first stop to get the Scottish title.” McFarlane has experienced plenty of life’s ups and downs in his 23 years, but the larger-than-life character sees this as another step towards his dream of becoming a champion. When he was 10 he spent time in a Caribbean orphanage with his brother following a holiday where his parents were arrested for drug smuggling. He was living in temporary accommodation when he signed his first pro contract and after just two wins he was given a slot on the undercard of Gennadiy Golovkin v Daniel Jacobs at the iconic Madison Square Garden and was then back in his ‘scatter flat’. “Campbell can’t beat me, when my head is straight, the only person who can beat me is me. He might be 6'7" and a monster but everyone is the same height when they’re lying down. It doesn’t make a difference to me, I’ve the experience and power over him and this is a golden opportunity for me to get me where I want to be,” said McFarlane. “This is the fight of my life, winning the Scottish Heavyweight title for me will be bigger than Andy Murray winning Wimbledon. I’ve had to contend with a lot in life but boxing has been my saviour and I want to make history in a sport that’s done good for me.”
	Scottish heavyweight championship to return after 71-year vacancy The Scottish heavyweight championship was last contested in 1951 when George VI was king of the UK, Ezzard Charles was the world heavyweight champion; Nat King Cole had the hit Too Young; Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh lit up the big screen in A Streetcar Named Desire; Tottenham Hotspur were Football League Champions and the video tape recorder was invented. Now, 71 years later, the ‘Vacant’ tag will be removed from the title when Glasgow giants Nick ‘The Glasgow Warrior’ Campbell (4-0, 4 KOs) and Jay ‘The Ghost’ McFarlane (12-5, 5 KOs) collide for the Caledonian mantle on the undercard of the world 140-pound championship clash between Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall on Saturday February 26th, promoted by Boxxer and Top Rank, at the OVO Hydro, Glasgow, live and exclusive on Sky Sports. When Glasgow rivals George Stern and Hugh McDonald challenged for the title at the Recreation Ground in Alloa in June 1951, Stern came out the victor that night, winning in the seventh round after McDonald was disqualified for a low blow, but Campbell and McFarlane are both promising to deliver a more conclusive ending in their fight. In the 2022 fight, Campbell, a former professional rugby player with the Glasgow Warriors and Jersey Reds, has raced to a perfect unbeaten four fights winning all by KO in just eight rounds of action. The 6'7" giant, is also on a mission to become the first ever Scot to win the British heavyweight title. Campbell said, “this is a massive fight card and brilliant opportunity to shine in my home city and live on Sky Sports. I’m shocked that the title hasn’t been contested for so long but it will be firmly around my waist come the end of the fight. McFarlane’s a tough guy, but he’s just another guy standing in the way of my goal and what I want to achieve in the sport. I aim to put on a thorough professional performance and get that stoppage. The British title is my aspiration, one step at a time though, McFarlane is my first stop to get the Scottish title.” McFarlane has experienced plenty of life’s ups and downs in his 23 years, but the larger-than-life character sees this as another step towards his dream of becoming a champion. When he was 10 he spent time in a Caribbean orphanage with his brother following a holiday where his parents were arrested for drug smuggling. He was living in temporary accommodation when he signed his first pro contract and after just two wins he was given a slot on the undercard of Gennadiy Golovkin v Daniel Jacobs at the iconic Madison Square Garden and was then back in his ‘scatter flat’. “Campbell can’t beat me, when my head is straight, the only person who can beat me is me. He might be 6'7" and a monster but everyone is the same height when they’re lying down. It doesn’t make a difference to me, I’ve the experience and power over him and this is a golden opportunity for me to get me where I want to be,” said McFarlane. “This is the fight of my life, winning the Scottish Heavyweight title for me will be bigger than Andy Murray winning Wimbledon. I’ve had to contend with a lot in life but boxing has been my saviour and I want to make history in a sport that’s done good for me.”

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Introducing Olympic champion Estelle Mossely of France

Source: Probellum | January 24, 2022

Introducing Olympic champion Estelle Mossely of France
Probellum announced the promotional signing of Olympic gold medallist Estelle Mossely of France. The 29 year-old Mosselly is 9-0 with 1 knockout as a pro and is the reigning IBO world lightweight champion. She clinched the IBO world lightweight title in 2019 with a victory over Lucy Wildheart. Prior to turning professional, the Paris-born Mossely enjoyed a stellar career at amateur level winning gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and amateur world championships, where she famously defeated current undisputed female world lightweight champion Katie Taylor at the semi-final stage. “I am very excited to embark on the next stage of my boxing journey with Richard Schaefer and his team at Probellum,” said Mossely. I have known Richard for many years and his track record as a promoter speaks for itself – he really knows how to build champions into superstars and I’m excited to start working closely with him. As a truly global boxing promoter with events all around the world, Probellum offers me the ideal platform to showcase my skills and bring more fans to female boxing. I predict very exciting times ahead and can’t wait to get started.” “I have been a fan of Estelle since her historic gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics,” said Schaefer, President of Probellum. “Not only because of her tremendous boxing skills, but also the way she carries herself outside the ring which makes her in my view the best ambassador for female boxing in the world. She is a role model for fans and fighters everywhere and in my opinion today, she is the best pound-for-pound female fighter in the world. In fact, I have not seen the kind of ring talent and skills from any other fighter, male or female, since I was fortunate to promote Floyd Mayweather. “I am honoured and humbled that Estelle has chosen Probellum to be her promoter and I am already working round the clock to plan her first fight under the Probellum banner.” Mossely joins Danish fighter Dina Thorslund, who signed with Probellum earlier this month, and joins a roster which also includes the likes of Pat and Luke McCormack, Troy Williamson, Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Noel Mikaelian, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia, Hebert Sousa, Dina Thorslund, Ben Rees and Will Cawley.
	Introducing Olympic champion Estelle Mossely of France Probellum announced the promotional signing of Olympic gold medallist Estelle Mossely of France. The 29 year-old Mosselly is 9-0 with 1 knockout as a pro and is the reigning IBO world lightweight champion. She clinched the IBO world lightweight title in 2019 with a victory over Lucy Wildheart. Prior to turning professional, the Paris-born Mossely enjoyed a stellar career at amateur level winning gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and amateur world championships, where she famously defeated current undisputed female world lightweight champion Katie Taylor at the semi-final stage. “I am very excited to embark on the next stage of my boxing journey with Richard Schaefer and his team at Probellum,” said Mossely. I have known Richard for many years and his track record as a promoter speaks for itself – he really knows how to build champions into superstars and I’m excited to start working closely with him. As a truly global boxing promoter with events all around the world, Probellum offers me the ideal platform to showcase my skills and bring more fans to female boxing. I predict very exciting times ahead and can’t wait to get started.” “I have been a fan of Estelle since her historic gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics,” said Schaefer, President of Probellum. “Not only because of her tremendous boxing skills, but also the way she carries herself outside the ring which makes her in my view the best ambassador for female boxing in the world. She is a role model for fans and fighters everywhere and in my opinion today, she is the best pound-for-pound female fighter in the world. In fact, I have not seen the kind of ring talent and skills from any other fighter, male or female, since I was fortunate to promote Floyd Mayweather. “I am honoured and humbled that Estelle has chosen Probellum to be her promoter and I am already working round the clock to plan her first fight under the Probellum banner.” Mossely joins Danish fighter Dina Thorslund, who signed with Probellum earlier this month, and joins a roster which also includes the likes of Pat and Luke McCormack, Troy Williamson, Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Noel Mikaelian, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia, Hebert Sousa, Dina Thorslund, Ben Rees and Will Cawley.

Source: Showtime | January 23, 2022

Magsayo defeats one-armed Russell to win featherweight title
Mark Magsayo W12 Gary Russell Jr.... Unbeaten Mark Magsayo defeated long-reigning Gary Russell Jr. by majority decision Saturday night to capture the WBC featherweight championship at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey. A protégé of Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao, Magsayo (24-0, 16 KOs) was able to end the reign of boxing’s longest male world champion by defeating Russell (31-2, 18 KOs) across twelve hard-fought rounds. Magsayo edged out the decision on the judges’ cards with a 114-114 score overruled by two judges seeing the bout 115-113 for Magsayo. Magsayo benefited from an apparent injury to Russell’s right shoulder that became discernable in round four. “I believe I have a torn tendon in my right shoulder,” said Russell. “I haven’t competed in almost two years. This is what true champions do. I wanted to step into the ring and display my superiority regardless of the injury. “I hurt the shoulder about two weeks ago,” continued Russell. “But I went through with the fight because I’m a true champion and this is what warriors do. I’m going to fight regardless of what the situation is. I refuse to not compete and display my skillsets to my fans and the people that came out to show support and love. Please believe that I will be back. I still want these fights.” “I knew that he was hurt in round four,” said Magsayo. “I took advantage of it because he was only using one hand. This was my opportunity to follow through. My coach was telling me to use good combinations and follow through. He said this is your chance to become a champion and now I am a champion.” Russell appeared to injure the shoulder throwing a short right hand and immediately winced in pain and retreated from the action. Russell was able to re-adjust his game plan and had success focusing solely on variations of his left hand. He slowed down the action and landed a number of clean shots to keep Magsayo at bay in a display of ring generalship, but it wasn’t enough to win over the judges. The Freddie Roach-trained Magsayo was able to land 41% of his power shots in the contest, a significant improvement from the 28% clip that Russell’s previous eight opponents had connected on, according to CompuBox. Russell was limited to just 64 jabs thrown and was out-landed 150 to 69. Magsayo continued to put the pressure on in the later rounds and was able to ride that activity to victory, including an attack that nearly dropped Russell late in round 10, thrilling the Filipino fans in attendance. After the fight, Russell indicated that he believed he still won, while Magsayo left open the possibility of a rematch. “I believed in my skillset and what I bring into the ring,” said Russell. “I felt like I still won the fight to be honest. Hell yeah I want a rematch. Would he want a rematch? That’s the question.” “It’s up to my promotional team,” said Magsayo when asked about a potential rematch. “But I’m willing to fight anybody. I’m the champion now!” "This is my dream come true,” said Magsayo. “Ever since I was a kid, this was my dream. I’m so proud that I’m a champion now. Thank you so much to the Filipino fans for the support.”
	Magsayo defeats one-armed Russell to win featherweight title Mark Magsayo W12 Gary Russell Jr.... Unbeaten Mark Magsayo defeated long-reigning Gary Russell Jr. by majority decision Saturday night to capture the WBC featherweight championship at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey. A protégé of Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao, Magsayo (24-0, 16 KOs) was able to end the reign of boxing’s longest male world champion by defeating Russell (31-2, 18 KOs) across twelve hard-fought rounds. Magsayo edged out the decision on the judges’ cards with a 114-114 score overruled by two judges seeing the bout 115-113 for Magsayo. Magsayo benefited from an apparent injury to Russell’s right shoulder that became discernable in round four. “I believe I have a torn tendon in my right shoulder,” said Russell. “I haven’t competed in almost two years. This is what true champions do. I wanted to step into the ring and display my superiority regardless of the injury. “I hurt the shoulder about two weeks ago,” continued Russell. “But I went through with the fight because I’m a true champion and this is what warriors do. I’m going to fight regardless of what the situation is. I refuse to not compete and display my skillsets to my fans and the people that came out to show support and love. Please believe that I will be back. I still want these fights.” “I knew that he was hurt in round four,” said Magsayo. “I took advantage of it because he was only using one hand. This was my opportunity to follow through. My coach was telling me to use good combinations and follow through. He said this is your chance to become a champion and now I am a champion.” Russell appeared to injure the shoulder throwing a short right hand and immediately winced in pain and retreated from the action. Russell was able to re-adjust his game plan and had success focusing solely on variations of his left hand. He slowed down the action and landed a number of clean shots to keep Magsayo at bay in a display of ring generalship, but it wasn’t enough to win over the judges. The Freddie Roach-trained Magsayo was able to land 41% of his power shots in the contest, a significant improvement from the 28% clip that Russell’s previous eight opponents had connected on, according to CompuBox. Russell was limited to just 64 jabs thrown and was out-landed 150 to 69. Magsayo continued to put the pressure on in the later rounds and was able to ride that activity to victory, including an attack that nearly dropped Russell late in round 10, thrilling the Filipino fans in attendance. After the fight, Russell indicated that he believed he still won, while Magsayo left open the possibility of a rematch. “I believed in my skillset and what I bring into the ring,” said Russell. “I felt like I still won the fight to be honest. Hell yeah I want a rematch. Would he want a rematch? That’s the question.” “It’s up to my promotional team,” said Magsayo when asked about a potential rematch. “But I’m willing to fight anybody. I’m the champion now!” "This is my dream come true,” said Magsayo. “Ever since I was a kid, this was my dream. I’m so proud that I’m a champion now. Thank you so much to the Filipino fans for the support.”

Source: Showtime | January 23, 2022

Matias avenges loss to Ananyan
Subriel Matias TKO9 Petros Ananyan ...In Showtime's co-feature, junior welterweight Subriel Matias (18-1, 18 KOs) scored a ninth-round TKO over Petros Ananyan (16-3-2, 7 KOs) after dropping Ananyan at the end of the round, prompting the referee to stop the fight at the suggestion of the ringside doctor between rounds. The bout was a rematch of their 2020 match that Ananyan won by decision. Matias avenged his only career defeat and put himself on the path toward a world title shot. Matias and Ananyanfought each other on the inside, with Matias targeting the body early and often, while Ananyan had some success with chopping shots to the head. In the final seconds of round nine, Matias landed the decisive blow via a counter left hook that immediately hurt Ananyan and sent him to the canvas. Ananyan was able to get to his feet and was saved by the bell ringing shortly after. However, in between rounds the ringside doctor deemed that Ananyan could no longer continue and the bout was officially ruled a TKO after nine rounds. “I’m not just a hard-hitter but the way that I fight is like cutting down a tree,” said Matias. “Just keep hitting them. I think I can improve my power but let’s see what happens with time. I want to thank everybody who made this fight possible, but I’m going to take my time before deciding who I will fight next.” Matias racked up a 252 to 164 advantage in punches landed throughout the fight, including a 59-12 edge in body punches. Ananyan was more active than Matias by a 761-678 margin but Matias’ 37% connect rate out-paced Ananyan’s 21%. Matias’ body attack backfired temporarily in round seven, as referee Mary Glover deducted a point early in the round. Matias continued to attack the body however, and both fighters continued to have strong moments through the end of the fight. “This is the fight that I wanted,” said Matias, who was jubilant in victory following the fast-paced affair. “Ever since my defeat to him, I wanted to avenge the loss. When you’re sure about yourself and you know that you have the skills that you have, you take the rematch.”
	Matias avenges loss to Ananyan Subriel Matias TKO9 Petros Ananyan ...In Showtime's co-feature, junior welterweight Subriel Matias (18-1, 18 KOs) scored a ninth-round TKO over Petros Ananyan (16-3-2, 7 KOs) after dropping Ananyan at the end of the round, prompting the referee to stop the fight at the suggestion of the ringside doctor between rounds. The bout was a rematch of their 2020 match that Ananyan won by decision. Matias avenged his only career defeat and put himself on the path toward a world title shot. Matias and Ananyanfought each other on the inside, with Matias targeting the body early and often, while Ananyan had some success with chopping shots to the head. In the final seconds of round nine, Matias landed the decisive blow via a counter left hook that immediately hurt Ananyan and sent him to the canvas. Ananyan was able to get to his feet and was saved by the bell ringing shortly after. However, in between rounds the ringside doctor deemed that Ananyan could no longer continue and the bout was officially ruled a TKO after nine rounds. “I’m not just a hard-hitter but the way that I fight is like cutting down a tree,” said Matias. “Just keep hitting them. I think I can improve my power but let’s see what happens with time. I want to thank everybody who made this fight possible, but I’m going to take my time before deciding who I will fight next.” Matias racked up a 252 to 164 advantage in punches landed throughout the fight, including a 59-12 edge in body punches. Ananyan was more active than Matias by a 761-678 margin but Matias’ 37% connect rate out-paced Ananyan’s 21%. Matias’ body attack backfired temporarily in round seven, as referee Mary Glover deducted a point early in the round. Matias continued to attack the body however, and both fighters continued to have strong moments through the end of the fight. “This is the fight that I wanted,” said Matias, who was jubilant in victory following the fast-paced affair. “Ever since my defeat to him, I wanted to avenge the loss. When you’re sure about yourself and you know that you have the skills that you have, you take the rematch.”

Source: Showtime | January 23, 2022

Sakaria Lukas denied career-changing win by blown call
Sakaria Lukas D10 Tugstsogt Nyambayar ... In the Showtime telecast opener, Tugstsogt Nyambayar (12-2-1, 9 KOs) and late replacement Sakaria Lukas (25-1-1, 17 KOs) fought to a spirited split-decision draw over 10 rounds of super featherweight action. Lukas was denied a win by a controversial ruling when the referee called a slip on an apparent knockdown of Nyamabayar. The back-and-forth affair saw the Mongolian Nyambayar strike first, connecting in round one with a left uppercut that caused the Namibian Lukas to stumble. Lukas recovered quickly, but fell behind across the early rounds as Nyambayar out-landed his opponent 67 to 46 across the first five frames. Lukas began to work his way back into the fight, landing right hands off of a consistent jab, including an overhand right that appeared to hurt Nyambayar in round eight. After the right hand, Lukas landed a counter left that put Nyambayar on the canvas, but the knockdown was ruled a slip by referee Eddie Claudio. “What I saw in real time, he fell down not from the impact of the blow but from his body language, he just slipped. His feet went and he slipped,” said Claudio post fight to ringside reporter Jim Gray. The potential missed knockdown call turned out to be the difference in the fight, as Lukas won at least three of the last five rounds according to all three judges. The final tallies were 96-94 for Nyambayar, 96-94 for Lukas and 95-95, resulting in the split-draw. "Everyone saw it was a knockdown that should have given me a split-decision win,” said Lukas, who endured a 27-hour flight to the U.S. for the bout from his native Namibia. “I fought my heart out and I deserved the win. I took the fight on short notice, but I was ready to win. I believe I won the fight, but I can't do anything about the decision. We had the fans behind us, they know what happened.” "I thought I won the fight and I didn't believe it was a knockdown,” said Nyambayar. “It was a hard fight, especially against an opponent on short notice. My goal is to fight for the world title again."
	Sakaria Lukas denied career-changing win by blown call Sakaria Lukas D10 Tugstsogt Nyambayar ... In the Showtime telecast opener, Tugstsogt Nyambayar (12-2-1, 9 KOs) and late replacement Sakaria Lukas (25-1-1, 17 KOs) fought to a spirited split-decision draw over 10 rounds of super featherweight action. Lukas was denied a win by a controversial ruling when the referee called a slip on an apparent knockdown of Nyamabayar. The back-and-forth affair saw the Mongolian Nyambayar strike first, connecting in round one with a left uppercut that caused the Namibian Lukas to stumble. Lukas recovered quickly, but fell behind across the early rounds as Nyambayar out-landed his opponent 67 to 46 across the first five frames. Lukas began to work his way back into the fight, landing right hands off of a consistent jab, including an overhand right that appeared to hurt Nyambayar in round eight. After the right hand, Lukas landed a counter left that put Nyambayar on the canvas, but the knockdown was ruled a slip by referee Eddie Claudio. “What I saw in real time, he fell down not from the impact of the blow but from his body language, he just slipped. His feet went and he slipped,” said Claudio post fight to ringside reporter Jim Gray. The potential missed knockdown call turned out to be the difference in the fight, as Lukas won at least three of the last five rounds according to all three judges. The final tallies were 96-94 for Nyambayar, 96-94 for Lukas and 95-95, resulting in the split-draw. "Everyone saw it was a knockdown that should have given me a split-decision win,” said Lukas, who endured a 27-hour flight to the U.S. for the bout from his native Namibia. “I fought my heart out and I deserved the win. I took the fight on short notice, but I was ready to win. I believe I won the fight, but I can't do anything about the decision. We had the fans behind us, they know what happened.” "I thought I won the fight and I didn't believe it was a knockdown,” said Nyambayar. “It was a hard fight, especially against an opponent on short notice. My goal is to fight for the world title again."

Source: Zanfer Promociones | January 23, 2022

Results from Tijuana: Picasso improves to 20-0
David Picasso TKO6 César Ignacio Paredes ... Mexican super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso triumphed by technical knockout after six rounds against Peru's César Ignacio Paredes. They fought on a Zanfer Promociones show in Tijuana. Picasso (20-0-1, 9 KOs) was patient but as the rounds went by, his dominance became clearer. In round six, Paredes (15-4-1, 5 KOs) was hurt twice, once with an uppercut, and then by a combination to the body and face. Paredes' corner held him out for the seventh round. Omar Salcido TKO4 Josué Estrada ... Lightweight Omar Salcido stopped Josué “Violento” Estrada in the fourth round, despite Estrada offering good resistance. Salcido (16-0-0, 11 KOs) had a reach advantage but he also excelled in close-quarters fighting. Estrada (6-1-0, 3 KOs) exchanged blows, but his defense was very vulnerable. Salcido landed a powerful combination to the face that sent Estrada to the canvas in the third round. Salcido tried to finish him off and although he landed power shots, his rival was able to finish the round on his feet. However, it was just a matter of time, and in the fourth round, after a powerful combination to the face that pushed Estrada back, the referee determined that it was enough, and stopped the fight.
	Results from Tijuana: Picasso improves to 20-0 David Picasso TKO6 César Ignacio Paredes ... Mexican super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso triumphed by technical knockout after six rounds against Peru's César Ignacio Paredes. They fought on a Zanfer Promociones show in Tijuana. Picasso (20-0-1, 9 KOs) was patient but as the rounds went by, his dominance became clearer. In round six, Paredes (15-4-1, 5 KOs) was hurt twice, once with an uppercut, and then by a combination to the body and face. Paredes' corner held him out for the seventh round. Omar Salcido TKO4 Josué Estrada ... Lightweight Omar Salcido stopped Josué “Violento” Estrada in the fourth round, despite Estrada offering good resistance. Salcido (16-0-0, 11 KOs) had a reach advantage but he also excelled in close-quarters fighting. Estrada (6-1-0, 3 KOs) exchanged blows, but his defense was very vulnerable. Salcido landed a powerful combination to the face that sent Estrada to the canvas in the third round. Salcido tried to finish him off and although he landed power shots, his rival was able to finish the round on his feet. However, it was just a matter of time, and in the fourth round, after a powerful combination to the face that pushed Estrada back, the referee determined that it was enough, and stopped the fight.

Source: WBA | January 23, 2022

Boxingtalk salutes Cristiano Ndombassy
Angolan-born Cristiano Ndombassy, a junior middleweight with a 12-6 record, is helping young people in the Wenter Cape region of South Africa through boxing. Ndombassy, who has lived in South Africa since 2010, opened the Warriors of Faith Boxing Club gym a few years ago, where he supports young boxers in pursuing a healthy life. “It’s important to commit to doing what you love, stay humble, find consistency and never give up on your dreams, even if that means making small changes for the better. If you are focused and serious about making a positive change in your life, it is worth the effort,” Ndombassy told South African media outlet “The Good News.” The boxer says his goal is to lead by example and help the next generation make responsible decisions that will improve their future, to unite people in a common goal, because “there is strength in unity”. In this way he hopes to leave a mark within his community.
	Boxingtalk salutes Cristiano Ndombassy Angolan-born Cristiano Ndombassy, a junior middleweight with a 12-6 record, is helping young people in the Wenter Cape region of South Africa through boxing. Ndombassy, who has lived in South Africa since 2010, opened the Warriors of Faith Boxing Club gym a few years ago, where he supports young boxers in pursuing a healthy life. “It’s important to commit to doing what you love, stay humble, find consistency and never give up on your dreams, even if that means making small changes for the better. If you are focused and serious about making a positive change in your life, it is worth the effort,” Ndombassy told South African media outlet “The Good News.” The boxer says his goal is to lead by example and help the next generation make responsible decisions that will improve their future, to unite people in a common goal, because “there is strength in unity”. In this way he hopes to leave a mark within his community.

By Scott Shaffer | January 22, 2022

Boxingtalk salutes Gary Russell, Jr. ahead of tonight's fight
Although he is often criticized for his inactivity, Boxingtalk salutes WBC featherweight champions Gary Russell Jr. ahead of tonight's title defense in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Russell has faced some family adversity going into tonight's fight. He lost a younger brother last year to a reported heart attack, and his father / trainer has been ill. Showtime, which will broadcast the fight, has released a three-minute video feature showcasing the deep boxing pedigree of the Russell family. Sadly, the partriarch of the family, father and trainer Gary Russell, Sr., has been ailing with diabetes, forcing Russell to largely train himself. “This has honestly been my toughest training camp,” Russell Jr. says. “My father has been in and out of the hospital. He honestly couldn’t really be in the camp the way that I wanted him to. His health still isn’t the best and it makes me push a little harder just for that. I’m just glad that at least he’s able to still be here and be apart of what he started. To be able to witness how everything is unfolding right in front of him.” Also affected by their father's illness are brothers and current undefeated professionals Gary Antonio and Gary Antuanne, also trained by Russell, Sr. “I love being able to showcase my skillset and what it is that I bring,” says Russell Jr. in the video feature that includes rare 2015 footage from brothers Gary Antonio, Gary Antuanne and Gary Allen Russell III. “That makes it even easier for me to give back to my younger brothers. To be able to give them some of the jewels in which that I gathered from the sport. A lot of information and a lot of knowledge. It’s only right to pass it on.”
	Boxingtalk salutes Gary Russell, Jr. ahead of tonight's fight Although he is often criticized for his inactivity, Boxingtalk salutes WBC featherweight champions Gary Russell Jr. ahead of tonight's title defense in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Russell has faced some family adversity going into tonight's fight. He lost a younger brother last year to a reported heart attack, and his father / trainer has been ill. Showtime, which will broadcast the fight, has released a three-minute video feature showcasing the deep boxing pedigree of the Russell family. Sadly, the partriarch of the family, father and trainer Gary Russell, Sr., has been ailing with diabetes, forcing Russell to largely train himself. “This has honestly been my toughest training camp,” Russell Jr. says. “My father has been in and out of the hospital. He honestly couldn’t really be in the camp the way that I wanted him to. His health still isn’t the best and it makes me push a little harder just for that. I’m just glad that at least he’s able to still be here and be apart of what he started. To be able to witness how everything is unfolding right in front of him.” Also affected by their father's illness are brothers and current undefeated professionals Gary Antonio and Gary Antuanne, also trained by Russell, Sr. “I love being able to showcase my skillset and what it is that I bring,” says Russell Jr. in the video feature that includes rare 2015 footage from brothers Gary Antonio, Gary Antuanne and Gary Allen Russell III. “That makes it even easier for me to give back to my younger brothers. To be able to give them some of the jewels in which that I gathered from the sport. A lot of information and a lot of knowledge. It’s only right to pass it on.”

Source: MTK | January 22, 2022

Gary Cully lands shot at ex-champ Miguel Vazquez
A good fight in the deep lightweight division has been booked for March 12th when undefeated Irish southpaw Gary Cully takes the toughest test of his career so far against former IBF champion Miguel Vazquez. The two men will collide on the undercard of the WBA featherweight title fight between Leigh Wood and Michael Conlan at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, England, live on DAZN. Cully (13-0, 7 KOs) earned two stoppage wins in 2021, defeating Viktor Kotochigov and Viorel Simion. Vazquez (44-10, 17 KOs) bounced back from his controversial defeat to Lewis Ritson with dominant wins over Isai Hernandez and Oliver Flores.
	Gary Cully lands shot at ex-champ Miguel Vazquez A good fight in the deep lightweight division has been booked for March 12th when undefeated Irish southpaw Gary Cully takes the toughest test of his career so far against former IBF champion Miguel Vazquez. The two men will collide on the undercard of the WBA featherweight title fight between Leigh Wood and Michael Conlan at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, England, live on DAZN. Cully (13-0, 7 KOs) earned two stoppage wins in 2021, defeating Viktor Kotochigov and Viorel Simion. Vazquez (44-10, 17 KOs) bounced back from his controversial defeat to Lewis Ritson with dominant wins over Isai Hernandez and Oliver Flores.

By Michael Borao, Jr. | January 22, 2022

Boxingtalk's weekend predictions
Here are young Michael Borao, Jr.'s prognostications for week 3 of 2022: Gary Russell Jr. vs. Mark Magsayo (WBC featherweight championship) … Prediction: Russell by unanimous decision Subriel Matias vs. Petros Ananyan II (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Matias by mid-round KO Tugstsogt Nyambayar vs. Sakaria Lukas (featherweights) … Prediction: Nyambayar by unanimous decision Hugo Centeno Jr. vs. Antonio Todd (middleweights) … Prediction: Centeno Jr. by early KO Karen Chukhadzhian vs. Ryan Martin (welterweights) … Prediction: Chukhadzhian by unanimous decision Oleksandr Zakhozhyi vs. Pavel Sour (heavyweights) … Prediction: Zakhozhyi by early KO Andrii Velikovskyi vs. Rafael Bejaran (middleweights) … Prediction: Velikovskyi by majority decision
	Boxingtalk's weekend predictions Here are young Michael Borao, Jr.'s prognostications for week 3 of 2022: Gary Russell Jr. vs. Mark Magsayo (WBC featherweight championship) … Prediction: Russell by unanimous decision Subriel Matias vs. Petros Ananyan II (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Matias by mid-round KO Tugstsogt Nyambayar vs. Sakaria Lukas (featherweights) … Prediction: Nyambayar by unanimous decision Hugo Centeno Jr. vs. Antonio Todd (middleweights) … Prediction: Centeno Jr. by early KO Karen Chukhadzhian vs. Ryan Martin (welterweights) … Prediction: Chukhadzhian by unanimous decision Oleksandr Zakhozhyi vs. Pavel Sour (heavyweights) … Prediction: Zakhozhyi by early KO Andrii Velikovskyi vs. Rafael Bejaran (middleweights) … Prediction: Velikovskyi by majority decision

By Scott Shaffer | January 22, 2022

WBC postpones Fury-Whyte purse bid again
Statement from WBC on a potential Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte fight: "The WBC has received requests from the teams of Tyson Fury and Dillian Whyte, to extend the period of free negotiations to finalize the fight. If there is no agreement, a purse bid will be held this coming Wednesday, January 26th." Prior statement from WBC on a potential Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte fight: The WBC has extended the free negotiations period for the WBC mandatory heavyweight title fight between champion Tyson Fury and interim champion Dillian Whyte. If there is no agreement between the parties a purse bid will be held on Friday January 21st at noon in Mexico City WBC headquarters." Prior statement from WBC on a potential Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte fight: "The WBC has extended the free negotiations period for the WBC mandatory heavyweight title fight between champion Tyson Fury and interim champion Dillian Whyte. If there is no agreement between the parties a purse bid will be held on Tuesday January 18th at noon in Mexico City WBC headquarters." Earlier in the year, Fury's co-promoter Frank Warren said he is looking at staging a huge event in association with Top Rank on Saturday March 26th featuring Fury.
	WBC postpones Fury-Whyte purse bid again Statement from WBC on a potential Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte fight: "The WBC has received requests from the teams of Tyson Fury and Dillian Whyte, to extend the period of free negotiations to finalize the fight. If there is no agreement, a purse bid will be held this coming Wednesday, January 26th." Prior statement from WBC on a potential Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte fight: The WBC has extended the free negotiations period for the WBC mandatory heavyweight title fight between champion Tyson Fury and interim champion Dillian Whyte. If there is no agreement between the parties a purse bid will be held on Friday January 21st at noon in Mexico City WBC headquarters." Prior statement from WBC on a potential Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte fight: "The WBC has extended the free negotiations period for the WBC mandatory heavyweight title fight between champion Tyson Fury and interim champion Dillian Whyte. If there is no agreement between the parties a purse bid will be held on Tuesday January 18th at noon in Mexico City WBC headquarters." Earlier in the year, Fury's co-promoter Frank Warren said he is looking at staging a huge event in association with Top Rank on Saturday March 26th featuring Fury.

Press Release | January 22, 2022

Spotlight on Ananyan vs. Matias II
Tonight (January 22nd) at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey, junior welterweight contenders Petros Ananyan and Subriel Matías meet in a twelve-round rematch on Showtime. Recently, Matias sat for an extended interview with Boxingtalk to discuss his 2020 decision loss to Ananyan. Now fight day is upon us, and here is what Matias (17-1) and Ananyan (16-2-2) had to say at the final press conference earlier this week: SUBRIEL MATIAS “This is a great opportunity for me to show the world who I am. I’m so excited that my mom is here to watch me fight for the first time in the U.S. I’m excited and I’m ready. Saturday is showtime. “On Saturday you’re going to see my improvements. All of the questions about me and about what happened in the first fight, they’re going to be answered in this fight. “It’s either him or me, but one of us is getting knocked out. I need to make this a big victory to redeem myself and my career. “I’ve always promised my mother since we started boxing that I’m going to buy her a home of her own. I haven’t done that yet, but I promise I’m going to fulfill that promise. “Everyone knows how I fight and that I’m a fan-friendly fighter. That’s not going to change, but I’m so much better in so many ways and I’m going to display my skills in this fight.” PETROS ANANYAN “This fight is a very good opportunity for me. I’m ready to give everyone a big fight. I have to thank Matias, because he’s giving me this chance to fight him again on a big stage like this. “Everyone knows it’s been difficult through the pandemic and I’ve been wanting this fight throughout the whole time. I promise I’m going to be ready on Saturday night. I’ve been waiting for a long time for this one. “I’m just taking it one step at a time. I want to be world champion one day, but those fights don’t matter to me yet. It’s all about this fight on Saturday night. “I believe in my heart that I’m ready. I just love to fight. Knockout or not, it doesn’t matter. I’m going to show my skills and give it my all to win this fight. This is the kind of fight that boxing needs.”
	Spotlight on Ananyan vs. Matias II Tonight (January 22nd) at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey, junior welterweight contenders Petros Ananyan and Subriel Matías meet in a twelve-round rematch on Showtime. Recently, Matias sat for an extended interview with Boxingtalk to discuss his 2020 decision loss to Ananyan. Now fight day is upon us, and here is what Matias (17-1) and Ananyan (16-2-2) had to say at the final press conference earlier this week: SUBRIEL MATIAS “This is a great opportunity for me to show the world who I am. I’m so excited that my mom is here to watch me fight for the first time in the U.S. I’m excited and I’m ready. Saturday is showtime. “On Saturday you’re going to see my improvements. All of the questions about me and about what happened in the first fight, they’re going to be answered in this fight. “It’s either him or me, but one of us is getting knocked out. I need to make this a big victory to redeem myself and my career. “I’ve always promised my mother since we started boxing that I’m going to buy her a home of her own. I haven’t done that yet, but I promise I’m going to fulfill that promise. “Everyone knows how I fight and that I’m a fan-friendly fighter. That’s not going to change, but I’m so much better in so many ways and I’m going to display my skills in this fight.” PETROS ANANYAN “This fight is a very good opportunity for me. I’m ready to give everyone a big fight. I have to thank Matias, because he’s giving me this chance to fight him again on a big stage like this. “Everyone knows it’s been difficult through the pandemic and I’ve been wanting this fight throughout the whole time. I promise I’m going to be ready on Saturday night. I’ve been waiting for a long time for this one. “I’m just taking it one step at a time. I want to be world champion one day, but those fights don’t matter to me yet. It’s all about this fight on Saturday night. “I believe in my heart that I’m ready. I just love to fight. Knockout or not, it doesn’t matter. I’m going to show my skills and give it my all to win this fight. This is the kind of fight that boxing needs.”

Press Release | January 22, 2022

Top Rank reveals Jan 29th undercard details
U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson, Brooklyn-born Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington and Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, are among the undercard boxers on the Top Rank show scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 29th at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, Oklahoma. The bill is topped by the ten-round WBC 130-pound title eliminator between Robson Conceição and Xavier Martinez, and a ten-round co-feature in the same weight class featuring Mexican grinder Rene Tellez Giron and Puerto Rico's Luis Melendez. Conceição-Martinez and Giron-Melendez will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The following undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT: Johnson (1-0, 1 KO), a 23-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio, will take on fellow unbeaten Xavier Madrid (3-0, 1 KO) in a four-round welterweight tilt. Johnson advanced to the quarterfinals at the Tokyo Olympics and turned pro last November with a fourth-round stoppage over Antonius Grable. Middleweight Ali Walsh (3-0, 2 KOs), who grabbed international headlines last year, looks to continue his unbeaten run in a four-rounder against Jeremiah Yeager (1-1-1, 1 KO). Carrington (1-0), the latest young talent from the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, makes his Top Rank debut against fellow unbeaten Steven Brown (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round featherweight bout. Light heavyweight Dante “Free Smoke” Benjamin Jr., a one-time U.S. amateur standout from Cleveland, Ohio, makes his professional debut in a four-rounder against Herman Rendon (2-0). Benjamin signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank last year. Tulsa-born heavyweight Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) hopes to thrill the hometown fans when he takes on the well-traveled Jason Bergman (27-20-2, 18 KOs) in a six-rounder. Milton and Bergman fought on the same Top Rank-promoted card in Tulsa last April, with Milton notching a first-round knockout and Bergman losing an eventful three-round shootout against Trey Lippe Morrison. Junior lightweight Pink Tyson (11-2, 2 KOs) looks to make it three consecutive wins when she fights the durable Carla Torres (6-6) in an eight-rounder. Featherweight Haven Brady Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) will see action in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Tony Holden Productions, tickets are on sale now here.
	Top Rank reveals Jan 29th undercard details U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson, Brooklyn-born Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington and Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, are among the undercard boxers on the Top Rank show scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 29th at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, Oklahoma. The bill is topped by the ten-round WBC 130-pound title eliminator between Robson Conceição and Xavier Martinez, and a ten-round co-feature in the same weight class featuring Mexican grinder Rene Tellez Giron and Puerto Rico's Luis Melendez. Conceição-Martinez and Giron-Melendez will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The following undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT: Johnson (1-0, 1 KO), a 23-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio, will take on fellow unbeaten Xavier Madrid (3-0, 1 KO) in a four-round welterweight tilt. Johnson advanced to the quarterfinals at the Tokyo Olympics and turned pro last November with a fourth-round stoppage over Antonius Grable. Middleweight Ali Walsh (3-0, 2 KOs), who grabbed international headlines last year, looks to continue his unbeaten run in a four-rounder against Jeremiah Yeager (1-1-1, 1 KO). Carrington (1-0), the latest young talent from the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, makes his Top Rank debut against fellow unbeaten Steven Brown (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round featherweight bout. Light heavyweight Dante “Free Smoke” Benjamin Jr., a one-time U.S. amateur standout from Cleveland, Ohio, makes his professional debut in a four-rounder against Herman Rendon (2-0). Benjamin signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank last year. Tulsa-born heavyweight Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) hopes to thrill the hometown fans when he takes on the well-traveled Jason Bergman (27-20-2, 18 KOs) in a six-rounder. Milton and Bergman fought on the same Top Rank-promoted card in Tulsa last April, with Milton notching a first-round knockout and Bergman losing an eventful three-round shootout against Trey Lippe Morrison. Junior lightweight Pink Tyson (11-2, 2 KOs) looks to make it three consecutive wins when she fights the durable Carla Torres (6-6) in an eight-rounder. Featherweight Haven Brady Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) will see action in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Tony Holden Productions, tickets are on sale now here.

Source: RDR Promotions | January 22, 2022

Ray Robinson to end long layoff in February
RDR Promotions kicks off its 2022 fight series on Saturday, February 26th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Tickets can be purchased here. In the main event, welterweight Ray Robinson will take on veteran Cleotis Pendarvis in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds. Robinson of Philadelphia, has a record of 24-3-2 with 12 knockouts. The 36 year-old will be shaking off a two-and-a-half-year that began after back-to-back draws vs. extremely tough competition in Egidijus Kavaliauskas (21-0) and then-undefeated British Olympian Josh Kelly. Prior to that, Robinson had wins over former U.S. Olympian Terrance Cauthen (36-7-1), Ray Narh (26-2), Aslanbek Kozoev (25-0-1) and Sherzodbek Almjanov (22-2). From California, Pendarvis has a record of 21-9-2 with nine knockouts. The 35 year-old is an 18-year veteran of the squared circle, and has wins over Hector Sanchez (18-0), Rogelio Del Torre (6-0) and Michael Clark (43-7-1). Pendarvis is coming off a loss to Devonte Williams on December 4th in Houston. A packed undercard will feature, in six-round bouts: Muhsin Cason (9-0, 6 KOs) of Las Vegas battles Steven Lyons (5-7-2, 2 KOs) of Larose, Louisiana in a cruiserweight matchup... Jerome Conquest (11-6, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (16-8-1, 8 KOs) of Mexico in a lightweight battle... Robert Sabbagh (3-0, 2 KOs) of Brooklyn squabbles with Joel Caudle (8-6-2, 5 KOs) of North Carolina in a heavyweight scrap and... Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight. In four-round fights. Rashan Adams (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take Nathan Benichou (2-7-1, 2 KOs) of Puebla, Mexico in a super featherweight fight... Dominique Mayfield (0-1) of Philadelphia takes on Daryl Clark (1-1, 1 KO) of Houston in a heavyweight fight... Anthony Young (0-4) of Philadelphia takes on Antonio Allen (1-13-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight contest... Isaiah Johnson (3-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight against an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight fight and... Jabril Noble (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.
	Ray Robinson to end long layoff in February RDR Promotions kicks off its 2022 fight series on Saturday, February 26th at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Tickets can be purchased here. In the main event, welterweight Ray Robinson will take on veteran Cleotis Pendarvis in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds. Robinson of Philadelphia, has a record of 24-3-2 with 12 knockouts. The 36 year-old will be shaking off a two-and-a-half-year that began after back-to-back draws vs. extremely tough competition in Egidijus Kavaliauskas (21-0) and then-undefeated British Olympian Josh Kelly. Prior to that, Robinson had wins over former U.S. Olympian Terrance Cauthen (36-7-1), Ray Narh (26-2), Aslanbek Kozoev (25-0-1) and Sherzodbek Almjanov (22-2). From California, Pendarvis has a record of 21-9-2 with nine knockouts. The 35 year-old is an 18-year veteran of the squared circle, and has wins over Hector Sanchez (18-0), Rogelio Del Torre (6-0) and Michael Clark (43-7-1). Pendarvis is coming off a loss to Devonte Williams on December 4th in Houston. A packed undercard will feature, in six-round bouts: Muhsin Cason (9-0, 6 KOs) of Las Vegas battles Steven Lyons (5-7-2, 2 KOs) of Larose, Louisiana in a cruiserweight matchup... Jerome Conquest (11-6, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (16-8-1, 8 KOs) of Mexico in a lightweight battle... Robert Sabbagh (3-0, 2 KOs) of Brooklyn squabbles with Joel Caudle (8-6-2, 5 KOs) of North Carolina in a heavyweight scrap and... Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight. In four-round fights. Rashan Adams (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take Nathan Benichou (2-7-1, 2 KOs) of Puebla, Mexico in a super featherweight fight... Dominique Mayfield (0-1) of Philadelphia takes on Daryl Clark (1-1, 1 KO) of Houston in a heavyweight fight... Anthony Young (0-4) of Philadelphia takes on Antonio Allen (1-13-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a super lightweight contest... Isaiah Johnson (3-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight against an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight fight and... Jabril Noble (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Source: Salita Promotions | January 22, 2022

Weigh-in report from Dearborn, Michigan
Here are the official boxer weights for Salita Promotions' show tonight at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan: Hugo Centeno Jr. 161.2 pounds vs. Antonio Todd 158.2; Winfred Harris Jr. 166.8 vs. Esau Herrera 163.4; Joseph Hicks Jr. 168.4 vs. Montrel James 168.4; Gordie Russ II 153.4 vs. Leslie Michael Klekotta 156; Marlon Harrington 159.4 vs. Terry Roscoe 158.2; Quinton Randall 151.4 vs. Julian Smith 145.4; and Joshua James Pagan 137.2 vs. Glenn Mitchell 136.
	Weigh-in report from Dearborn, Michigan Here are the official boxer weights for Salita Promotions' show tonight at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan: Hugo Centeno Jr. 161.2 pounds vs. Antonio Todd 158.2; Winfred Harris Jr. 166.8 vs. Esau Herrera 163.4; Joseph Hicks Jr. 168.4 vs. Montrel James 168.4; Gordie Russ II 153.4 vs. Leslie Michael Klekotta 156; Marlon Harrington 159.4 vs. Terry Roscoe 158.2; Quinton Randall 151.4 vs. Julian Smith 145.4; and Joshua James Pagan 137.2 vs. Glenn Mitchell 136.

Source: Showtime | January 22, 2022

Gary Russell needed extra time but makes featherweight
Tomorrow's main event on Showtime in Atlantic City, New Jersey will be a WBC featherweight championship fight between long-time champion Gary Russell Jr. and challenger Mark Magsayo of the Philippines. Magsayo had no problem with the 126-pound featherweight limit, coming in at 125.5. Russell, who said he was basically training himself due to his father's health issues, initially weighed in at 126.5 and received one hour to make the proper weight. He did do, coming in at 125.5 on his next attempt.
	Gary Russell needed extra time but makes featherweight Tomorrow's main event on Showtime in Atlantic City, New Jersey will be a WBC featherweight championship fight between long-time champion Gary Russell Jr. and challenger Mark Magsayo of the Philippines. Magsayo had no problem with the 126-pound featherweight limit, coming in at 125.5. Russell, who said he was basically training himself due to his father's health issues, initially weighed in at 126.5 and received one hour to make the proper weight. He did do, coming in at 125.5 on his next attempt.

Press Release | January 22, 2022

Nyambayar vs. Lukas final presser quotes
Tonight's Showtime opener from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J. opens up with a ten-round battle between Mongolian featherweight contender Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar (15-4 including the World Series of Boxing) and Namibia's Sakaria Lukas (25-1). Here is what they had to say at the final press conference earlier this week: TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR: “I believe in myself and I’m excited to take advantage of this great opportunity for me. I’m ready to give everyone a great fight. “I’ve seen what I needed to see from Lukas. I’m going to do everything I can to win this fight and I’m confident in the result. “I would definitely love another fight against Gary Russell Jr. I want the winner of the main event. I’m focused on my fight, but I want another shot at the title.” SAKARIA LUKAS: “This is the stage where I want to be. I’m ready to go on Saturday night. I don’t want to go back, I want to stay on this stage and keep climbing. “Styles make fights. This is short notice for me, so I’m just prepared to go in and do what I do best. Anything can happen. Talk is cheap, it’s a different story when you get smacked in the face. “It’s been my dream since I was young to fight on events like this in the U.S. I have to leave it all in the ring and make sure there is no doubt about what I can do after Saturday night.”
	Nyambayar vs. Lukas final presser quotes Tonight's Showtime opener from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J. opens up with a ten-round battle between Mongolian featherweight contender Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar (15-4 including the World Series of Boxing) and Namibia's Sakaria Lukas (25-1). Here is what they had to say at the final press conference earlier this week: TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR: “I believe in myself and I’m excited to take advantage of this great opportunity for me. I’m ready to give everyone a great fight. “I’ve seen what I needed to see from Lukas. I’m going to do everything I can to win this fight and I’m confident in the result. “I would definitely love another fight against Gary Russell Jr. I want the winner of the main event. I’m focused on my fight, but I want another shot at the title.” SAKARIA LUKAS: “This is the stage where I want to be. I’m ready to go on Saturday night. I don’t want to go back, I want to stay on this stage and keep climbing. “Styles make fights. This is short notice for me, so I’m just prepared to go in and do what I do best. Anything can happen. Talk is cheap, it’s a different story when you get smacked in the face. “It’s been my dream since I was young to fight on events like this in the U.S. I have to leave it all in the ring and make sure there is no doubt about what I can do after Saturday night.”

Is Martinez staying at 115 pounds? Hearn says no

Is Martinez staying at 115 pounds? Hearn says no

Brook vs. Khan: 149-pound catchweight on Feb. 19th

Brook vs. Khan: 149-pound catchweight on Feb. 19th

WBC pushing Rey Vargas as next challenger for Mark Magsayo

WBC pushing Rey Vargas as next challenger for Mark Magsayo

Welterweight Florian Marku signs with Boxxer

Welterweight Florian Marku signs with Boxxer

Ricardo “Científico” Núñez named Panama's Boxer of the Year

Ricardo “Científico” Núñez named Panama's Boxer of the Year

Welterweight action included on DKP card this Saturday

Welterweight action included on DKP card this Saturday

Tyrone Luckey steps into Massachusetts main event

Tyrone Luckey steps into Massachusetts main event

Introducing Ron Johnson's EntroBox

Introducing Ron Johnson's EntroBox

Mexico City hosts lightweight action on Friday

Mexico City hosts lightweight action on Friday

Fight of the year alert: JC Martinez vs. Roman Gonzalez on March 5th

Fight of the year alert: JC Martinez vs. Roman Gonzalez on March 5th

Regis Prograis books March return in Dubai

Regis Prograis books March return in Dubai

Sunny Edwards to defend title vs. Muhammad Waseem

Sunny Edwards to defend title vs. Muhammad Waseem

Sor Rungvisai and Cuadras on pace to make weight for Feb. 5th

Sor Rungvisai and Cuadras on pace to make weight for Feb. 5th

Is Joshua mulling a step-aside offer?

Is Joshua mulling a step-aside offer?

Colbert lands title shot vs. Gutierrez

Colbert lands title shot vs. Gutierrez

WBC previews Makabu vs. Mchunu II

WBC previews Makabu vs. Mchunu II

WBA orders Akhmadaliev to make mandatory defense in 90 days

WBA orders Akhmadaliev to make mandatory defense in 90 days

Antonio Todd defeats Hugo Centeno

Antonio Todd defeats Hugo Centeno

South African news: Lerena vs. Dinu pushed back

South African news: Lerena vs. Dinu pushed back

Mexican update: Tijuana card set for Friday

Mexican update: Tijuana card set for Friday

WBA orders Tank Davis to face Rolly Romero

WBA orders Tank Davis to face Rolly Romero

Twitter Chatter: Shields-Marshall trash talk heats up

Twitter Chatter: Shields-Marshall trash talk heats up

European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor added to Feb. 11th show

European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor added to Feb. 11th show

Scottish heavyweight championship to return after 71-year vacancy

Scottish heavyweight championship to return after 71-year vacancy

Introducing Olympic champion Estelle Mossely of France

Introducing Olympic champion Estelle Mossely of France

Magsayo defeats one-armed Russell to win featherweight title

Magsayo defeats one-armed Russell to win featherweight title

Matias avenges loss to Ananyan

Matias avenges loss to Ananyan

Sakaria Lukas denied career-changing win by blown call

Sakaria Lukas denied career-changing win by blown call

Results from Tijuana: Picasso improves to 20-0

Results from Tijuana: Picasso improves to 20-0

Boxingtalk salutes Cristiano Ndombassy

Boxingtalk salutes Cristiano Ndombassy

Boxingtalk salutes Gary Russell, Jr. ahead of tonight's fight

Boxingtalk salutes Gary Russell, Jr. ahead of tonight's fight

Gary Cully lands shot at ex-champ Miguel Vazquez

Gary Cully lands shot at ex-champ Miguel Vazquez

Boxingtalk's weekend predictions

Boxingtalk's weekend predictions

WBC postpones Fury-Whyte purse bid again

WBC postpones Fury-Whyte purse bid again

Spotlight on Ananyan vs. Matias II

Spotlight on Ananyan vs. Matias II

Top Rank reveals Jan 29th undercard details

Top Rank reveals Jan 29th undercard details

Ray Robinson to end long layoff in February

Ray Robinson to end long layoff in February

Weigh-in report from Dearborn, Michigan

Weigh-in report from Dearborn, Michigan

Gary Russell needed extra time but makes featherweight

Gary Russell needed extra time but makes featherweight

Nyambayar vs. Lukas final presser quotes

Nyambayar vs. Lukas final presser quotes