Tyson Fury surfaces in Istanbul, teases comeback |
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A host of the biggest names in boxing descended on Istanbul, Türkiye for a special presentation on behalf of the IBA. The presentation coincided with an IBA professional boxing event. IBA president Umar Kremlev was joined on stage by former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and pound-for-pound superstar Terence Crawford. Kremlev laid out his upcoming plans for ‘The Golden Era’ of the IBA, unveiling his intention to build a powerful ecosystem to support fighters from all backgrounds in the amateur, professional and bareknuckle field.
When it was his turn to speak, Fury gave a speech about the importance of investment into the grass roots, praising Kremlev and the IBA for their staunch commitment to bringing through the next generation of boxers.
‘Big shoutout to Umar Kremlev for bringing me over here to be part of this day.’
‘I’ve travelled the world with boxing, but we travel for money. We fight for the biggest purse — and the investment Umar is putting into amateur boxing is amazing. When I was an amateur, I didn’t get paid anything. I had no support. Now you’ve got all these talented youngsters coming through and Umar is supporting them, it’s fantastic.’
With ‘The Gypsy King’ still teasing a potential return to the ring after his latest retirement, it was left to popular heavyweight Derek Chisora to play the role of matchmaker as he asked Fury about a potential bout with British rival Anthony Joshua for the IBA Pro Heavyweight title.
‘Of course. 100%,’ Fury confirmed.
‘Show me the money, Umar [Kremlev]! I haven’t got an IBA pro belt, but I’m available — I’m young, free, single and ready to mingle!’
Crawford, just two months out from his mega-fight with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, took time out from his busy schedule to attend the conference in support of IBA and Kremlev. ‘It’s great, what IBA are doing for amateur and professional boxing,’ said the American boxing legend.
‘There are a lot of talented kids out there that don’t have the finances to go to certain tournaments because they can’t afford it, or they don’t have the right boxing equipment. IBA has committed to supporting those people and gives them a fighting chance.’
Ahead of his bout with ‘Canelo’ in September, Crawford insisted he is fully prepared for the task at hand, even managing to fit in a workout ahead of the glitzy event.
‘I feel great, I’ve been working hard. I just finished running before the press conference. Everything is good and I’m looking forward to becoming a three-weight undisputed champion on September 13th.’
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Tyson Fury surfaces in Istanbul, teases comeback
A host of the biggest names in boxing descended on Istanbul, Türkiye for a special presentation on behalf of the IBA. The presentation coincided with an IBA professional boxing event. IBA president Umar Kremlev was joined on stage by former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and pound-for-pound superstar Terence Crawford. Kremlev laid out his upcoming plans for ‘The Golden Era’ of the IBA, unveiling his intention to build a powerful ecosystem to support fighters from all backgrounds in the amateur, professional and bareknuckle field.
When it was his turn to speak, Fury gave a speech about the importance of investment into the grass roots, praising Kremlev and the IBA for their staunch commitment to bringing through the next generation of boxers.
‘Big shoutout to Umar Kremlev for bringing me over here to be part of this day.’
‘I’ve travelled the world with boxing, but we travel for money. We fight for the biggest purse — and the investment Umar is putting into amateur boxing is amazing. When I was an amateur, I didn’t get paid anything. I had no support. Now you’ve got all these talented youngsters coming through and Umar is supporting them, it’s fantastic.’
With ‘The Gypsy King’ still teasing a potential return to the ring after his latest retirement, it was left to popular heavyweight Derek Chisora to play the role of matchmaker as he asked Fury about a potential bout with British rival Anthony Joshua for the IBA Pro Heavyweight title.
‘Of course. 100%,’ Fury confirmed.
‘Show me the money, Umar [Kremlev]! I haven’t got an IBA pro belt, but I’m available — I’m young, free, single and ready to mingle!’
Crawford, just two months out from his mega-fight with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, took time out from his busy schedule to attend the conference in support of IBA and Kremlev. ‘It’s great, what IBA are doing for amateur and professional boxing,’ said the American boxing legend.
‘There are a lot of talented kids out there that don’t have the finances to go to certain tournaments because they can’t afford it, or they don’t have the right boxing equipment. IBA has committed to supporting those people and gives them a fighting chance.’
Ahead of his bout with ‘Canelo’ in September, Crawford insisted he is fully prepared for the task at hand, even managing to fit in a workout ahead of the glitzy event.
‘I feel great, I’ve been working hard. I just finished running before the press conference. Everything is good and I’m looking forward to becoming a three-weight undisputed champion on September 13th.’
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Mexico confirms Chavez Jr. is a wanted man |
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On Thursday, The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained "prominent Mexican boxer and criminal illegal alien" Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., and is processing him for expedited removal from the United States. Sauturday's New York Times ran a story in which Mexican president Claudia Scheinbaum confirmed that the younger Chavez was indeed a wanted man in Mexico. The story credited Scheinbaum with saying that Mexican prosecutors had begun investigating the boxer in 2019 and had issued an arrest warrant in March 2023. She said Mexico had been unable to detain Mr. Chávez because “he lived most of the time in the United States.” Chavez, a former champion over a decade ago, had remained out of the spotlight until last week's high-profile loss to social media superstar Jake Paul. Here is the official United States government press release from July 3rd: Chavez is a Mexican citizen who has an active arrest warrant in Mexico for his involvement in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives. In August 2023, he entered the country legally with a B2 tourist visa that was valid until February 2024. Chavez is also believed to be an affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. ICE arrested Chavez in Studio City, California on July 2nd.
On April 2, 2024, Chavez filed application for Lawful Permanent Resident status. Chavez’s application was based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen, who is connected to the Sinaloa Cartel through a prior relationship with the now-deceased son of the infamous cartel leader Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. On December 17, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services made a referral to ICE that Chavez is an egregious public safety threat. However, an entry in a DHS law enforcement system under the Biden administration indicated Chavez was not an immigration enforcement priority. On January 4, 2025, the Biden administration allowed Chavez to reenter the country and paroled him into the country at the San Ysidro port of entry. Following multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a Lawful Permanent Resident, he was determined to be in the country illegally and removable on June 27, 2025.
“This Sinaloa Cartel affiliate with an active arrest warrant for trafficking guns, ammunition, and explosives was arrested by ICE. It is shocking the previous administration flagged this criminal illegal alien as a public safety threat, but chose to not prioritize his removal and let him leave and COME BACK into our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Under President Trump, no one is above the law—including world-famous athletes. Our message to any cartel affiliates in the U.S. is clear: We will find you and you will face consequences. The days of unchecked cartel violence are over.”
[Chavez's] rap sheet is below:
On January 22, 2012, California Highway Patrol arrested Chavez and charged him with DUI alcohol/drugs and Driving Without a License.
On June 23, 2012, the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, convicted Chavez for the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol and sentenced him to 13 days in jail and 36 months’ probation.
On January 14, 2023, a District Judge issued an arrest warrant for Chavez, for the offense of organized crime for the purpose of committing crimes of weapons trafficking and manufacturing crimes, in the modality of those who participate in clandestinely bringing weapons, ammunition, cartridges, explosives into the country; and those who manufacture weapons, ammunition, cartridges, and explosives without the corresponding permit.
On January 7, 2024, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested Chavez and charged him with Illegal Possession of Any Assault Weapon and Manufacture or Import Short Barreled Rifle. The court convicted Chavez of these charges.
On his first day in office, President Donald J. Trump designated the Sinaloa Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The Sinaloa Cartel targeted and viciously murdered U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Nicholas Quets, and has kidnapped, tortured and killed many other Americans. The Sinaloa Cartel has also played a major role in the trafficking of fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexico border. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow vicious cartels to operate on American soil.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE JUNE 29, 2025... In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul got in ten rounds of good work but was never seriously challenged by Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul won nearly every round but failed to hurt Chavez, a former champion from 2011-2012 who hasn't taken boxing seriously for years. Paul tired over the last two rounds, allowing Chavez to save some face after a generally dismal performance. Still, Paul won a deserved lopsided unanimous decision by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is likely to enter the world rankings of at least one of the major sanctioning bodies. Compubox credited Paul with a 141-60 edge in punches landed. For the first three rounds, Chavez's offense was virtually nonexistent. With the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. screamimng from ringside in frustration, his son finally landed a punch just before the end of round three. Things heated up a bit in the fourth as Chavez began to come forward a little more, but Paul still won the round. Chavez simply would not let his hands go with any regularity, and the couple of times that he did when he was in punching range, Paul wisely tied Chavez up.The packed, pro-Mexican crowd tried to will Chavez forward over the second half of the fight, but Chavez lacked the energy to throw extended combinations. It should be remembered that Chavez is 39 years old and as a former middleweight champion now fighting at cruiserweight, he is 40 pounds over his best weight. The momentum turned in round nine as Paul tired and Chavez landed several good blows. The tenth round featured the best exchanges of the contest, as a tired Paul fought back against a surging, suddenly aggressive Chavez. The late rally was not enough to overcome the first eight rounds.
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Mexico confirms Chavez Jr. is a wanted man
On Thursday, The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained "prominent Mexican boxer and criminal illegal alien" Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., and is processing him for expedited removal from the United States. Sauturday's New York Times ran a story in which Mexican president Claudia Scheinbaum confirmed that the younger Chavez was indeed a wanted man in Mexico. The story credited Scheinbaum with saying that Mexican prosecutors had begun investigating the boxer in 2019 and had issued an arrest warrant in March 2023. She said Mexico had been unable to detain Mr. Chávez because “he lived most of the time in the United States.” Chavez, a former champion over a decade ago, had remained out of the spotlight until last week's high-profile loss to social media superstar Jake Paul. Here is the official United States government press release from July 3rd: Chavez is a Mexican citizen who has an active arrest warrant in Mexico for his involvement in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives. In August 2023, he entered the country legally with a B2 tourist visa that was valid until February 2024. Chavez is also believed to be an affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. ICE arrested Chavez in Studio City, California on July 2nd.
On April 2, 2024, Chavez filed application for Lawful Permanent Resident status. Chavez’s application was based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen, who is connected to the Sinaloa Cartel through a prior relationship with the now-deceased son of the infamous cartel leader Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. On December 17, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services made a referral to ICE that Chavez is an egregious public safety threat. However, an entry in a DHS law enforcement system under the Biden administration indicated Chavez was not an immigration enforcement priority. On January 4, 2025, the Biden administration allowed Chavez to reenter the country and paroled him into the country at the San Ysidro port of entry. Following multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a Lawful Permanent Resident, he was determined to be in the country illegally and removable on June 27, 2025.
“This Sinaloa Cartel affiliate with an active arrest warrant for trafficking guns, ammunition, and explosives was arrested by ICE. It is shocking the previous administration flagged this criminal illegal alien as a public safety threat, but chose to not prioritize his removal and let him leave and COME BACK into our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Under President Trump, no one is above the law—including world-famous athletes. Our message to any cartel affiliates in the U.S. is clear: We will find you and you will face consequences. The days of unchecked cartel violence are over.”
[Chavez's] rap sheet is below:
On January 22, 2012, California Highway Patrol arrested Chavez and charged him with DUI alcohol/drugs and Driving Without a License.
On June 23, 2012, the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, convicted Chavez for the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol and sentenced him to 13 days in jail and 36 months’ probation.
On January 14, 2023, a District Judge issued an arrest warrant for Chavez, for the offense of organized crime for the purpose of committing crimes of weapons trafficking and manufacturing crimes, in the modality of those who participate in clandestinely bringing weapons, ammunition, cartridges, explosives into the country; and those who manufacture weapons, ammunition, cartridges, and explosives without the corresponding permit.
On January 7, 2024, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested Chavez and charged him with Illegal Possession of Any Assault Weapon and Manufacture or Import Short Barreled Rifle. The court convicted Chavez of these charges.
On his first day in office, President Donald J. Trump designated the Sinaloa Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The Sinaloa Cartel targeted and viciously murdered U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Nicholas Quets, and has kidnapped, tortured and killed many other Americans. The Sinaloa Cartel has also played a major role in the trafficking of fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexico border. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow vicious cartels to operate on American soil.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE JUNE 29, 2025... In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul got in ten rounds of good work but was never seriously challenged by Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul won nearly every round but failed to hurt Chavez, a former champion from 2011-2012 who hasn't taken boxing seriously for years. Paul tired over the last two rounds, allowing Chavez to save some face after a generally dismal performance. Still, Paul won a deserved lopsided unanimous decision by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is likely to enter the world rankings of at least one of the major sanctioning bodies. Compubox credited Paul with a 141-60 edge in punches landed. For the first three rounds, Chavez's offense was virtually nonexistent. With the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. screamimng from ringside in frustration, his son finally landed a punch just before the end of round three. Things heated up a bit in the fourth as Chavez began to come forward a little more, but Paul still won the round. Chavez simply would not let his hands go with any regularity, and the couple of times that he did when he was in punching range, Paul wisely tied Chavez up.The packed, pro-Mexican crowd tried to will Chavez forward over the second half of the fight, but Chavez lacked the energy to throw extended combinations. It should be remembered that Chavez is 39 years old and as a former middleweight champion now fighting at cruiserweight, he is 40 pounds over his best weight. The momentum turned in round nine as Paul tired and Chavez landed several good blows. The tenth round featured the best exchanges of the contest, as a tired Paul fought back against a surging, suddenly aggressive Chavez. The late rally was not enough to overcome the first eight rounds.
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Salita Promotions signs hw Sardius Simmons |
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Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions announced the following news on social media: "Grateful to announce the signing of Sardius Simmons, 2025 National Heavyweight Champion and one of the most decorated amateur heavyweights in the country. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, a city with a deep boxing legacy, Sardius represents the next generation of American heavyweights—talented, driven, and ready to make a global impact. Our commitment is clear: to discover, develop, and deliver the future champions of the heavyweight division—right here in the United States. Watch his development live on DAZN." Salita's biggest client is Claressa "GWOAT" Shields, the multi-division champion, who also comes from Flint.
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Salita Promotions signs hw Sardius Simmons
Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions announced the following news on social media: "Grateful to announce the signing of Sardius Simmons, 2025 National Heavyweight Champion and one of the most decorated amateur heavyweights in the country. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, a city with a deep boxing legacy, Sardius represents the next generation of American heavyweights—talented, driven, and ready to make a global impact. Our commitment is clear: to discover, develop, and deliver the future champions of the heavyweight division—right here in the United States. Watch his development live on DAZN." Salita's biggest client is Claressa "GWOAT" Shields, the multi-division champion, who also comes from Flint.
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Junior lightweight title overview |
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Here is a look at the recent lineage of the four major championships in the junior lightweight (130-pound) weight class. The current champions are Emanuel Navarrete (WBO), O'Shaquie Foster (WBC), Eduardo Nunez (IBF) and Lamont Roach (WBA). Boxingtalk will be updating and expanding this recent history of the junior lightweight division from time to time.
WBA INTERIM / JULY 2, 2025: In an upset, British veteran James “Jazza” Dickens (36-5, 15 KOs) handed 2021 Olympic champion Albert Batyrgaziev (14-1 including IBA pro fights) his first professional loss with a stunning knockout victory to claim the WBA interim junior lightweight world title. The bout headlined Wednesday night’s IBA card at the Rixos Tersane in Istanbul. The finish was as dramatic as it was decisive. Dickens, age 34 and a former IBO featherweight titleholder, timed a perfect combination in the fourth round that left Russian Batyrgaziev unable to respond, forcing his corner to throw in the towel after two knockdowns. Up until that moment, the fight had been tightly contested. Batyrgaziev showcased his usual precision and range control, while Dickens pressed forward, banking on pressure and attrition. But in the fourth, the Liverpool native found the moment he was looking for. A sharp left hook followed by a straight right hand that sent Batyrgaziev to the canvas for the first time in his professional career.
IBF / MAY 28, 2025: In Yokohama, Japan, Eduardo Nunez of Mexico beat Masanori Rikiishi to claim the vacant IBF junior lightweight title over twelve rounds. Nunez picked up the unanimous decision win with the scorecards reading 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111. Nunez is now 28-1 with 27 KOs, meaning this was the first fight he won by decision. The title was vacated by Anthony Cacace, who chose to fight former featherweight titlist Leigh Wood rather than Nunez. It has been a good week for Mexican boxing, as Willibaldo Garcia won a 155-pound title a few days ago,
WBO / MAY 10, 2025: Emanuel Navarrete controversially retained his WBO junior lightweight world title Saturday evening with an eighth-round technical decision over Filipino contender Charly Suarez. The fight was halted early due to a cut over Navarrete’s left eye, which referee Edward Collantes ruled was caused by an accidental headbutt. However, instant replay showed Suarez landed a punch just before Suarez's follow through caused a very slight clash of heads. It was difficult to tell whether the punch or the head caused the cut, and the California State Athletic Commission conducted an instant replay review. Boxingtalk is of the opinion that the punch caused the cut, which would have given Suarez the championship by TKO. It was a very difficult decision to make, and Suarez deserves a rematch. The headbutt ruling meant that the winner wouldbe determined on the scorecards. Navarrete prevailed by scores of 77-76 (twice) and 78-75.
IBO / MAY 10, 2025: Ex-IBF junior lightweight champion Anthony Cacace has seemingly brought an end to Leigh Wood's career after stopping the former WBA featherweight champion in round nine in Nottingham, England. The end came with Wood runing away from Cacace and the towel flying in from Wood's corner. Cacace (24-1) retained his IBO junior lightweight title, and now has dispatched Joe Cordina, Josh Warrington and Wood in his last three outings. Wood is now 28-4.
WBA / MARCH 23, 2025: In front of a sold-out crowd at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, amateur rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont “The Reaper” Roach engaged in an exciting lightweight brawl over twelve competitive rounds that ended was scored a draw. The outcome of the fight was swayed by a missed knockdown call when Davis took a knee. It was a slow-paced fight early on, but built to a crescendo by the end, as Roach withstood Davis' power and fearlessly battled back in the exchanges, sometimes getting the better of them. As usual, the southpaw Davis’ punch output was measured at first then increased round by round, whether planting straight lefts to the body or letting Roach lead so he could launch a powerful counter attack. Roach, who remains the reigning WBA junior lightweight champion, earned the respect of fans and pundits alike.
IBF / FEB 1, 2025: Anthony Cacace has vacated the IBF 130-pound title to avoid facing his mandatory contender, Mexico's Eduardo Nunez. Here is how Cacace defended the move: "Becoming a world champion was an absolute dream and incredibly proud moment for me. However, at this stage of my career, I only want the biggest fights possible, regardless of the belt on the line. I’m a prize fighter, and my aim is now to secure mine and families future, and to create a legacy for myself in boxing by being involved in massive fights that fans will remember. I look forward to announcing my next fight very soon."
WBO / DEC. 8, 2024: In Phoenix, Emanuel Navarrete stopped Oscar Valdez in round six with a left hook to the body, retaining his WBO junior lightweight world title. Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) had already bested Valdez (32-3, 24 KOs) once, by decision in August 2023, but this time, the fighting pride of Nogales, Mexico, did not see the final bell. Navarrete knocked down Valdez three times, including at the end of the opening round. While Valdez succeeded in small pockets, the three-division champion landed the harder, more telling blows. It was a return to form for Navarrete, who bounced back from May's decision loss to Denys Berinchyk for the WBO lightweight title. He came back to the junior lightweight ranks and used his awkward style and looping punches to once again blunt Valdez's aggression.
WBC / NOV. 3, 2024: O'Shaquie Foster (23-3, 12 KOs) is now a two-time junior lightweight champion. Foster regained the WBC world title with a split decision victory over Robson Conceição (19-3-1, 9 KOs) on Saturday evening at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Two judges scored it 115-113 for Foster, while one scored it 115-113 for Conceição. Conceição dethroned Foster with a hard-fought verdict in July, prompting the rematch less than four months later. By the seventh, Foster began to wear down Conceição. The Brazilian fired back, but Foster consistently defended against Conceição’s right hand, countering sharply with a right of his own. In the tenth, Foster buzzed Conceição with a one-two, but Conceição survived before trading blows in the championship rounds.
WBC / JULY 26, 2024: The WBC Board of Governors has ordered a direct rematch between WBC 130-pound champion Robson Conceciao and the man he controversially beat for the title last month, former champ O'Shaquie Foster. On July 6th, Conceicao upset Foster by split decision to win the WBC title in a tactical affair. Conceicao fell short in world title bids three times before but this time, the judges though he did just enough to win. The verdict that sparked immediate debate. Conceicao (19-2-1, 9 KOs) prevailed by scores of 116-112 and 115-113, while Foster held a 116-112 edge on the third card. Boxingtalk reviewed the fight and scored it 115-113 for Foster.
IBF / MAY 19, 2024: Anthony Cacace (22-1, 8 KOs) is now the IBF champion after stopping Wales' Joe Cordina (17-1, 9 KOs) in round eight in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia. Cacace, from Belfast, Northern Ireland, became a world champion at the advanced age of 35. Punchstats credited Cacace with outlanding Cordina, 282 punches to 113. Cacace was breaking down Cordina against the ropes when the referee delcared the bout over and Cacace the new champion.
WBO / MAY 19, 2024: He tried moving up to 135 pounds, but Emanuel Navarrete (38-2-1, 31 KOs) failed in his attempt to become a four-division champion.On the same day Oleksandr Usyk captured the undisputed world heavyweight championsip, Usyk's 2012 Olympic temmate, Denys Berinchyk defeated Navarrete by split decision to win the vacant WBO lightweight world title in San Diego. Berinchyk prevailed by scores of 116-112 and 115-113, while Navarrete won the third card, 116-112. Navarrete remains the WBO 130-pound champion.
WBA / NOV. 26, 2023: In Las Vegas, Lamont Roach wrested away Héctor García’s WBA super featherweight title in his second attempt at a belt. Roach dropped García in the twelfth round and wound up winning a split decision by scores of 116-111, 114-113 and 113-114 in a technical and strategic fight. [The result is controversial as Roach appeared to knock Garcia down with an improper blow to the back of the head]. The knockdown caused the WBA title to change hands as it allowed Roach to avoid a split-draw. The punch in question was a the left hook that landed with 1:20 left in the fight and drove García into the canvas for the second time in his career. In 2019, Roach came up short in his first title shot against Jamel Herring, also a southpaw
WBO / NOV. 16, 2023... Robson Conceicao of Brazil showed incredible heart, battling through two knockdowns and an apparent broken nose to get a draw against WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete. Conceicao, age 35, is a three-time Olympian, gold medal winner and three time world title challenger. After a legitimate loss to Shakur Stevenson and a controversial one to Oscar Valdez in prior title fights, Conceicao was all smiles after the bruising stalemate. Official scores were 113-113 (twice) and 114-112 (Navarrete). With the draw, Navarrete retains his title.
IBF / NOV. 4, 2023: The IBF 130-pound title remained with Joe Cordina of Wales who edged Edward Vazquez of Texas via a debatable majority decision. After twelve exciting and very competitive rounds in Monte Carlo, the three neutral judges scored it 114-114 and 116-112 (twice) for Cordina. Now 19-2 including the World Series of Boxing, Cordina is regarded as one of the best British fighters today and is a two-time champion. Cordina's first reign ended due to injury, and both of his losses date back to the Word Series of Boxing. Vazquez returns to Texas at 15-2, with both losses being controversial. Most feel Vazquez was robbed against Raymond Ford in 2022.
WBC / OCT. 29, 2023: O'Shaquie Foster was in position to lose by split decision before gaining a thrilling twelfth-round technical knockout victory over Eduardo Hernandez on Saturday. Fighting a Mexican in Cancun, Mexico, Foster and Hernandez went to war in round eleven. Foster was then three minutes away from losing his title to some very bad judging, as he entered the final round trailing on two of the official scorecards by 110-99 and 107-102. Foster led on the third scorecard by 106-103 but that would not have been enought to save his title. So he came out aggressively and kept his WBC super featherweight championship by knocking Hernandez down and then stopping him. It was dramatic stuff from the Houston resident, who is now 21-2 on ths his career. Boxingtalk salutes Hernandez, who is now 34-2, as well as Foster.
WBO / AUG. 12, 2023: Emanuel Navarrete defeated former two-division champion Oscar Valdez in a classic Mexican war held in Glendale, Arizona. Navarrete, a three-division champion, retained the WBO junior lightweight championship by unanimous decision. The official scores were 116-112, 118-110 and 119-109. Navarrete threw 1038 punches according to Compubox, outlanding Valdez 216-140. Valdez finished with swelling plus a deep bruise under his right eye. Valdez has now failed in his last two title fights, vs. Shakur Stevenson and now Navarrete.
IBF/ APRIL 24, 2023: Joe Cordina became a two-time IBF 130-pound champion, winning a unanimous decision over Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov in a thriller of a bout held in Cordina's native Wales. The two men both entered the fight undefeated, as Cordina briefly held the title last year but had to give it up due to injury. The vacant belt was then won by Rakhimov last November, setting up Saturday's match
WBC / FEB. 12, 2023: With the words “ice water” and “shock the world” etched on his trunks, O’Shaquie Foster produced the fight of his life, coolly and methodically outboxing two-division champion Rey Vargas to capture the vacant WBC junior lightweight championship in his first title shot at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. Foster, who normally switches to southpaw in his fights, fought orthodox for the entire twelve rounds with the objective of befuddling Vargas. He won by scores of 116-112, 117-111 and 119-109 in a dominant, albeit very competitive win. “I can’t put it into words (what this means),” Foster said in the ring afterward. “I know my mom, my uncle, my grandpa, they are all looking down on me.” Vargas was returning to the Alamodome after winning the WBC featherweight championship in his last bout with a decision victory over Mark Magsayo at the same venue last July. He still holds that title, so a return to 126 pounds may be in the cards for Vargas.
WBO / FEB. 4, 2023: In Glendale, Arizona, Mexico's Emanuel Navarrete (37-1) survived a knockdown and stopped Australia's Liam Wilson (11-2) in a thriller to earn the vacant WBO 130-pound championship. By claiming the title recently vacated by Shakur Stevenson, Navarrete become a three-division champion. Though Wilson lost, he established himself as a skillful and exciting boxer, and earned a return invitiation to the world stage. In round four, Navarrete was knocked down for the first time in his career. As Navarrete lunged forward with a punch, Wilson caught him with a combination that floored and hurt Navarrete. Luckily for him, Navarrete got critical extra seconds of recovery time as his mouth piece needed to be replaced, and Navarrete struggled to put in correctly. Round seven saw Navarrete swing the momentum his way, as blood began to flow freely from Wilson's nose. In round eight, Wilson appeared to be fighting the wrong kind of fight, looking for one big shot while Navarrete landed multiple blows upstairs and downstairs. Navarrete's body work paid off in round nine, as he knocked down Wilson in the first minute with a one-two combination. Wilson got up, but was clearly drained. He absorbed a lot of hard punches, stumbled badly in the middle of the ring, and seemed unable to tie up Navarrete up. When Navarrete trapped Wilson against the rope and began raining in punches, the referee had no choice but to stop the bout.
WBA / JAN. 8, 2023: In Washington D.C., Gervonta Davis defeated WBA 130-pound champion Hector Luis Garcia in a 135-pound bout in which Garcia's title was not at stake. Davis' feared punching power did not produce the knockout the fans were looking for, but it nonetheless proved to be Garcia's undoing. After seven competitive rounds, Davis began consistently landing power punches in round eight. Garcia was staggered but survived until the end of the round. Garcia was guided back to his corner in clear distress and told trainer Bob Santos he could not see. Garcia did not come out for round ten, and Davis was the winner by technical knockout. Davis remains the WBA regular title holder in the lightweight division, while the battered Garcia also retains the WBA junior lightweight title, which was not on the line because this was a lightweight bout. Davis led the cards at the time of the stoppage, 78-74 (twice) and 79-73. Punchstats gave Davis the lead in punches landed, 99-55.
IBF / NOV 6, 2022: In Abu Dhabi, Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov won the vacant IBF 130-pound title after the IBF stripped Joe Cordina for having hand surgery. Rakhimov defeated Zelfa Barrett by ninth-round technical knockout. The new champ is from Tajikistan and boasts a pro record of 16-0-1 with the draw coming in a prior IBF title shot vs. Joseph "JoJo" Diaz last year. Barrett was doing well in the fight as a whole, even knocking Rakhimov down with a huge uppercut early in the contest. But according to DAZN, something happened in the ninth round and Barrett's leg appeared to be injured. It looked like Barrett couldn't put full weight on his right leg, and Rakhimov took advantage with a flurry of hard shots to knock Barrett down twice. At the point the fight was stopped, the referee did not administer a count, although Barrett's corner was ready to throw in the towel. The British Barrett is now 28-2.
IBF / OCT. 5, 2022: Joe Cordina had this to say about getting stripped by the IBF of his 130-pound championship because he had hand surgery (he posted a picture on social media to prove it): "Absolutely gutted. Worked my whole life to become a world champion and I haven’t even had the chance to defend the title Feel like I’ve been robbed !!" Zelfa Barrett will face Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov for the vacant IBF 130-pound championship on a Matchroom show at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Saturday November 5th. Rakhimov (16-0-1, 13 KOs) gets a second opportunity to fight for the 130-pound crown following his draw with an overweight Joseph Diaz last year.
WBC & WBO / SEPT. 23, 2022: At Thursday's weigh-in in Newark, New Jersey, hometown hero Shakur Stevenson could not get below 131.6 pounds, and therefore lost the WBO and WBC 130-pound championships on the scale. His ESPN main event vs. Robson Conceição is still on, with the Brazilian challenger still eligible to win the titles. If Stevenson wins the twelve-round bout, the two titles become vacant. Conceição made weight with a bit to spare at 129.6. [Stevenson won the fight, so the titles remained vacant until February 2023 when O'Shaquie Foster defeated Rey Vargas for the WBC and Emanuel Navarrete stopped Liam WIlson for the WBO].
WBA / AUG. 21, 2022: Hector Luis Garcia of the Dominican Republic dethroned Roger Gutierrez for the WBA 130-pound championship. From San Juan de la Maguana, Garcia (16-0) proved that his dominant win against Chris Colbert in February wasn’t a fluke. Garcia, a former Olympian, dictated the action and survived a late rally to wrest the WBA title from Gutierrez via unanimous decision. Scores were 117-111 (twice) and 118-110.
IBF / JUNE 4, 2022: Wales has a new world champion as Joe Cordina had a dream-come-true moment in Cardiff. Fightng in front of a passionate hometown crowd, Cordina claimed the IBF 130-pound championship from Japan's Kenichi Ogawa with a turn-out-the-lights right hand. The one-punch, knockout-of-the-year candidate came in round two and saw Ogawa struggling to stand up, only to fall back down as the referee reched the ten count. Cordina was outboxed in the first round, but he made it all irrelevant with one punch a round later. He's been credited as the 13th world champion from Wales. Cordina is listed as 15-0, but Boxingtalk recognizes the World Series of Boxing as professional, so we report him as 17-1. Ogawa, a former drug cheat in 2017, is now 26-2-1.
WBC & WBO / MAY 21, 2022: WBO junior lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson unified two titles when he outboxed WBC champion Oscar Valdez via unanimous decision on Saturday in front of 10,102 fans in Las Vegas. After twelve rounds, the judges declared Newark, New Jersey's Stevenson the winner by scores of 118-109 (twice) and 117-110. Stevenson (20-0 including the World Series of Boxing) established the southpaw jab in the early going, and Valdez (30-1, 23 KOs) could not get his offense going outside of pockets of success in the third round. In the sixth, Stevenson spun Valdez into the ropes and knocked him down with a right hand. It was all Stevenson in the second half of the fight, who built an insurmountable lead on the cards. Valdez won the final round on all three judges' cards, but it was too little, too late.
IBF / NOV. 21, 2021... In the Madison Square Garden co-feature, Japan's Kenichi Ogawa became the new IBF super featherweight champion, dropping South Africa's Azinga Fuzile three times on the way to a unanimous decision. Official scores were 115-110 (twice) and 114-111 for Ogawa to claim the vacant title. A former drug cheat, Ogawa is now 26-1-1 but also has a no contest after testing positive in a fight vs. Tevin Farmer in 2017. Fuzile is now 15-2. The title became vacant ealier this year when JoJo Diaz failed to make the 130-pound limit for a fight.
WBO / OCT. 24, 2021: In Atlanta, Shakur Stevenson stopped Jamel Herring (23-3, 11 KOs) on cuts in round ten to become the new WBO junior lightweight champion. There were no knockdowns, but Herring was well behind on the cards and a cut over his left eye was rapidly worsening from Stevenson's punches. Although he was not badly hurt, Herring did not complain much about referee Mark Nelson's stoppage. The undefeated Stevenson is now a two-division title holder (as well as an Olympic silver medalist), having previously won a featherweight title before moving up in weight. As soon as the fight ended, talk began about Stevenson's next foe. The top name on his list is the WBC champion at 130 pounds, Mexico's Oscar Valdez.
WBC / SEPT. 11, 2021: In Tucson, Arizona, WBC 130-pound champion Oscar Valdez started slow but got some home cooking to help him remain a champion. Robson Conceicao was fighting the fight of his life, likely winning the first five rounds although not getting credit from the judges for it. The champion then turned it around. Valdez retained his title Friday evening with a unanimous decision over 2016 Brazilian Olympian gold medalist Conceicao. Official scores were 115-112 (twice) and a corrupt or incompetent 117-110. [Punchstat numbers favored Conceicao widely, 141 punches landed to 83. Valdez's face was completely marked up from the punches he absorbed. The referee did his part to assist Valdez by making a ridiculous and unjustified point deduction againt the challenger for a minor tap to the back of the head. Not even a warning for Conceicao but Valdez did the same thing and suffered no penalty. Valdez probably should not have even been allowed to fight, as he tested positive for a VADA-banned substance last week.
WBO / APRIL 23, 2021: Jamel Herring stops and retires the respected Carl Frampton a former two-division champion. With the win, Herring retained his WBO championship.
WBC / FEB. 20, 2021: In Las Vegas, Oscar Valdez and Miguel Berchelt promised an all-Mexican clash for the ages. They delivered. Valdez knocked out Berchelt with a left hook at the end of the tenth round to win the WBC super featherweight title from Berchelt, who was making his seventh title defense. The hook crumpled Berchelt, who fell face-first to the canvas, and referee Russell Mora immediately waved off the fight. Valdez, a former WBO featherweight champion, is now a two-division champion and a major star in boxing. Berchelt (38-2, 34 KOs) had been badly hurt and knocked down in the fourth, but steadied himself and continued to pressure Valdez (29-0, 23 KOs) throughout the middle rounds. Valdez turned the tide once again in the ninth with a knockdown, and with the tenth round in hand, he lowered the boom.
WBA / JAN. 2, 2021: Venezuela's Roger Gutierrez defeated Nicaragua's Rene Alvarado by an extremely narrow unanimous decision in Dallas on Saturday. Gutierrez, who had a prior loss to Alvarado in 2017, scored three knockdowns this time around and needed every one of them to capture the three scorecards by 113-112. It was a very close fight that had Alvarez ahead but things were still up for grabs going into the final round. A twelfth-round left hook from Gutierrez sent Alvarado to the canvas for the third time and proved to be the difference on the scorecards. With the win, Gutierrez acquires the WBA regular junior lightweight title in a situation hopelessly mucked up by the WBA. Right now Gervonta Davis holds the WBA super championship in this division and also the WBA regular championship at lightweight, but under the WBA rules, a super championship in at 130 pounds should never have been issued. So Gutierrez has a stronger claim to being the WBA 130-pound champion than Davis.
WBA / NOV. 24, 2019: A confrontation between veterans ended with a technical knockout in favor of Nicaragua's Rene Alvarado, who defeated California's Andrew Cancio to become the WBA junior lightweight champion. Alvarado (32-8), never considered true world-class material, surprised the fans in Indio, California by dominating Cancio for seven rounds. As soon as round seven ended, referee Raul Caiz, Sr. made a wise decision and stopped the bout. Alvarado broke down in tears in his corner. At one point, Alvarado was 24-8 but has now reeled off eight straight wins. Alvarado's twin brother is Felix Alvarado, the IBF 108-pound champion, meaning they have duplicated the Charlo brothers' feat as simultaneous twin champions.
WBA / JUNE 22, 2019: A boxing Cinderella story continued in true Arturo Gatti fashion on Friday in Indio, California. In an immediate rematch, Andrew Cancio fought through a bad cut to knock out Alberto Machado and retain his WBA regular 130-pound championship. Cancio, who is not hard to hit, suffered a cut forhead in round two, but he immediately began walking Machado down, landing hard body punches that quickly took all the steam out of Machado. Cutman Carlos Vargas did a phenomenal job stopping the bleeding, and Cancio picked up right where he left off to start round three. A nasty Cancio left hook to the side put his opponent down on one knee, and the deflated Machado got up an instant after the referee reached the ten count. No controversy. The result is similar to their first fight, in which Cancio's body attack stopped Machado in four rounds. Cancio is an unlikely champion: he retired from boxing in 2016 and remains a full-time employee of California Gas & Electric. Cancio (20-4-2) holds a title that it listed by the WBA as secondary to Gervonta Davis' super championship, but Cancio's title is no less legitimate than Davis', as Cancio beat a reigning title holder (Machado) to get his belt while Davis beat a non-champion who had lost his prior fight (Jesus Cuellar) to acquire the super championship
WBO / MAY 26, 2019: Marine Corps veteran Jamel Herring completed his Hollywood story, upsetting WBO junior lightweight champion Masayuki Ito via unanimous decision Saturday evening at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida. It was a highly active yet largely tactical match-up between Ito (25-2-1, 13 KOs) and Herring (20-2, 10 KOs). With Herring’s stamina fading slightly down the stretch, Ito’s best rounds came in the final quarter of the fight, however it was too little too late as Herring won a unanimous decision by scores of 116-112 and 118-110 (twice). Herring accomplished his championship dream on Memorial Day weekend in front of a host of active and reserve U.S. Marines.
WBO / JULY 29, 2018: Masayuki Ito traveled halfway around the world but he will return home with the WBO 130-pound championship. Ito, from Tokyo, defeated Puerto Rico's Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz via unanimous decision (116-111, 117-110, 118-109) on Saturday evening at the Kissimmee (Florida) Civic Center. Ito claimed the title that had been vacated by Vasyl Lomachenko. Ito (24-1-1, 12 KOs) knocked down Diaz (23-1, 15 KOs) in the fourth round and controlled the tempo of the fight. Ito, who was fighting for the first time outside of Japan, was not fazed by the pro-Diaz crowd
WBC / JAN 29, 2017: The WBC 130-pound title now belongs to Miguel Berchelt, who punished Francisco Vargas in Indio, California. The HBO Boxing After Dark fight went on a couple of rounds too long as Berchelt turned Vargas’ face into a bloody wreck. The ringside physician declined two opportunities to stop the fight, and when it was over, the cut above Vargas’ left eye was longer than the eye itself. Berchelt is now 30-1, with lone loss coming in 2014 to non-contender Luis Eduardo Florez. Bechelt’s first defense could be against former WBC champion Takashi Miura, who won an eliminator on the undercard. Another possibility is Orlando Salido, a former featherweight champion who recently drew with Vargas. Meanwhile, Vargas is now 23-1-1, and showed some effects from back-to-back wars vs. Miura and Salido.
IBF / JAN. 14, 2017: Baltimore's Gervonta "Tank" Davis (17-0 with 16 KOs) punished and stopped Jose Pedraza (22-1 with 12 KOs) to claim the IBF 130-pound championship. Just 22 years old, Davis is built like Mike Tyson. He certainly fought in a Tysonesque manner, bulling forward to take the Puerto Rican Pedraza's title in round seven. Davis started aggressively and landed some hard shots in the opening round. Davis continued to show he meant business, hitting Pedraza when Pedraza was down on a slip in round two and engaging in rabbit punches in round three. In the fourth round, Pedraza made some adjustments, landing enough to make Davis shake his head no, trying to indicate he wasn't hurt. In the fifth, Pedraza controlled the action for most of the round until both men put on a display of machismo, thrilling the crowd by trading punches with their hands down. Davis hurt Pedraza badly with a left hook to the ribs, forcing Pedraza to fight the remainder of the round with his right hand down to cover the rib. Davis punished the one-handed Pedraza accordingly, and it looked as though the fight might be stopped by the ringside doctor between rounds. The seventh round eventually got started, and the weakened Pedraza could no nothing but absorb punishment against the ropes. A hard combination punctuated by a right decked Pedraza. The Puerto Rican beat the count but the referee wisely ended the bout immediately.
WBO / JUNE 11, 2016: Ukrainian Vasiliy Lomachenko defeated Roman "Rocky" Martinez in a fifth-round knockout at Madison Square Garden to become the WBO junior lightweight champion. Lomachenko, a two-time Olympic champion, is now a two-division professional champion. Lomachenko made a successful debut at 130 pounds with a spectacular, fifth-round knockout of Martinez. WBC / JUNE 6, 2016: Francisco Vargas and Orlando Salido fight to a draw, allowing Vargas to retain his WBC title. WBC / NOV. 21, 2015: In Las Vegas, Francisco Vargas and Takashi Miura gave boxing fans an instant classic. The Mexican Vargas (23-0-1) took the WBC 130-pound championship from Japan's Takashi Miura (29-3-2). In round one, Vargas nearly knocked Takashi down with a looping right hand. Despite doing his best to make it an early night, Vargas was unable to finish Miura off. Soon, Miura began to time his left hand and he dropped Vargas with a straight right hand at the end of round four. After being cut under his right eye by an accidental clash of heads in the earlier rounds, Miura opened a cut on top of Vargas' eye turning his face into a bloody mask. Rounds 5-8 were all Miura, as the soon-to-be-ex champ landed the cleaner, harder shots for the majority of those frames. But Vargas was not to be denied. He came out blazing in the ninth and dropped Miura with a series of heavy shots. After flopping around on the canvas, Miura made it to his feet and his found his balance. After not punching back for nearly 30 seconds, referee Tony Weeks appeared to stop the bout just when it seemed Miura was getting his feet back under him. IBF / JUNE 14, 2015: In the opening bout of the Showtime doubleheader from Birmingham, Alabama, Jose Pedraza (20-0, 12 KOs) dominated Andrey Klimov (20-1, 9 KOs) from the opening bell to claim the vacant IBF junior lightweight title with a unanimous decision victory. The Puerto Rican Pedraza, making his 2015 debut, triumphed by the scores of 120-108 (twice) and 119-109. The IBF title was last held by Cuba's Rances Barthelemy. WBO/ APRIL 11, 2015: Score one for Puerto Rico in its boxing rivalry vs. Mexico. In San Juan, Roman "Rocky" Martinez won the WBO 130-pound championship by unanimous decision over Mexico's Orlando Salido. Martinez knocked Salido down in the third and fifth rounds, and Salido was also penalized for low blows in the eleventh. Martinez carried the scorecards by tallies of 115-110, 114-111 and 116-109. Salido previously had great success over Puerto Rican rivals, including Juan Manuel Lopez, but having turned pro at age 15, the now 34 year-old Salido has absorbed a lot of punishment over his career. He was taken to the hospital after the fight. Salido is now 42-13-2 with 1 no contest in a long and honorable career. Martinez (29-2-2) now begins his third reign as the WBO 130-pound champion. Both times, his title was taken from him under dubious circumstances (vs. Ricky Burns in 2010 and Mikey Garcia in 2013). WBO / OCT. 17, 2014: Orlando Salido has earned his warrior stripes many times over, but this week, he got a free pass to a paper championship. The WBO handed Salido a title belt in the 130-pound weight class. Salido, who held featherweight titles on multiple occasions, was handed the title because the prior titlist, Mikey Garcia, is embroiled in a lawsuit with Top Rank over his promotional rights, and Garcia intends to move up to 140 pounds anyway. Garcia has not fought since January and has no fight on the horizon. Garcia beat Salido controversially at 126 pounds in 2013 when Garcia, ahead on points, quit on his stool after eight rounds. The bout was allowed to go to the scorecards when it appeared that Salido, although losing most rounds, should have won by technical knockout because the injury to Garcia was caused by a punch. In any event, Garcia moved up to 130 and took the WBO title from Roman Martinez. Last month, with Garcia on the sideline due to the lawsuit, Salido defeated Terdsak Kokietgym of Thailand for an interim title. That title has now been updated from interim to full.
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Junior lightweight title overview
Here is a look at the recent lineage of the four major championships in the junior lightweight (130-pound) weight class. The current champions are Emanuel Navarrete (WBO), O'Shaquie Foster (WBC), Eduardo Nunez (IBF) and Lamont Roach (WBA). Boxingtalk will be updating and expanding this recent history of the junior lightweight division from time to time.
WBA INTERIM / JULY 2, 2025: In an upset, British veteran James “Jazza” Dickens (36-5, 15 KOs) handed 2021 Olympic champion Albert Batyrgaziev (14-1 including IBA pro fights) his first professional loss with a stunning knockout victory to claim the WBA interim junior lightweight world title. The bout headlined Wednesday night’s IBA card at the Rixos Tersane in Istanbul. The finish was as dramatic as it was decisive. Dickens, age 34 and a former IBO featherweight titleholder, timed a perfect combination in the fourth round that left Russian Batyrgaziev unable to respond, forcing his corner to throw in the towel after two knockdowns. Up until that moment, the fight had been tightly contested. Batyrgaziev showcased his usual precision and range control, while Dickens pressed forward, banking on pressure and attrition. But in the fourth, the Liverpool native found the moment he was looking for. A sharp left hook followed by a straight right hand that sent Batyrgaziev to the canvas for the first time in his professional career.
IBF / MAY 28, 2025: In Yokohama, Japan, Eduardo Nunez of Mexico beat Masanori Rikiishi to claim the vacant IBF junior lightweight title over twelve rounds. Nunez picked up the unanimous decision win with the scorecards reading 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111. Nunez is now 28-1 with 27 KOs, meaning this was the first fight he won by decision. The title was vacated by Anthony Cacace, who chose to fight former featherweight titlist Leigh Wood rather than Nunez. It has been a good week for Mexican boxing, as Willibaldo Garcia won a 155-pound title a few days ago,
WBO / MAY 10, 2025: Emanuel Navarrete controversially retained his WBO junior lightweight world title Saturday evening with an eighth-round technical decision over Filipino contender Charly Suarez. The fight was halted early due to a cut over Navarrete’s left eye, which referee Edward Collantes ruled was caused by an accidental headbutt. However, instant replay showed Suarez landed a punch just before Suarez's follow through caused a very slight clash of heads. It was difficult to tell whether the punch or the head caused the cut, and the California State Athletic Commission conducted an instant replay review. Boxingtalk is of the opinion that the punch caused the cut, which would have given Suarez the championship by TKO. It was a very difficult decision to make, and Suarez deserves a rematch. The headbutt ruling meant that the winner wouldbe determined on the scorecards. Navarrete prevailed by scores of 77-76 (twice) and 78-75.
IBO / MAY 10, 2025: Ex-IBF junior lightweight champion Anthony Cacace has seemingly brought an end to Leigh Wood's career after stopping the former WBA featherweight champion in round nine in Nottingham, England. The end came with Wood runing away from Cacace and the towel flying in from Wood's corner. Cacace (24-1) retained his IBO junior lightweight title, and now has dispatched Joe Cordina, Josh Warrington and Wood in his last three outings. Wood is now 28-4.
WBA / MARCH 23, 2025: In front of a sold-out crowd at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, amateur rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Lamont “The Reaper” Roach engaged in an exciting lightweight brawl over twelve competitive rounds that ended was scored a draw. The outcome of the fight was swayed by a missed knockdown call when Davis took a knee. It was a slow-paced fight early on, but built to a crescendo by the end, as Roach withstood Davis' power and fearlessly battled back in the exchanges, sometimes getting the better of them. As usual, the southpaw Davis’ punch output was measured at first then increased round by round, whether planting straight lefts to the body or letting Roach lead so he could launch a powerful counter attack. Roach, who remains the reigning WBA junior lightweight champion, earned the respect of fans and pundits alike.
IBF / FEB 1, 2025: Anthony Cacace has vacated the IBF 130-pound title to avoid facing his mandatory contender, Mexico's Eduardo Nunez. Here is how Cacace defended the move: "Becoming a world champion was an absolute dream and incredibly proud moment for me. However, at this stage of my career, I only want the biggest fights possible, regardless of the belt on the line. I’m a prize fighter, and my aim is now to secure mine and families future, and to create a legacy for myself in boxing by being involved in massive fights that fans will remember. I look forward to announcing my next fight very soon."
WBO / DEC. 8, 2024: In Phoenix, Emanuel Navarrete stopped Oscar Valdez in round six with a left hook to the body, retaining his WBO junior lightweight world title. Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) had already bested Valdez (32-3, 24 KOs) once, by decision in August 2023, but this time, the fighting pride of Nogales, Mexico, did not see the final bell. Navarrete knocked down Valdez three times, including at the end of the opening round. While Valdez succeeded in small pockets, the three-division champion landed the harder, more telling blows. It was a return to form for Navarrete, who bounced back from May's decision loss to Denys Berinchyk for the WBO lightweight title. He came back to the junior lightweight ranks and used his awkward style and looping punches to once again blunt Valdez's aggression.
WBC / NOV. 3, 2024: O'Shaquie Foster (23-3, 12 KOs) is now a two-time junior lightweight champion. Foster regained the WBC world title with a split decision victory over Robson Conceição (19-3-1, 9 KOs) on Saturday evening at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Two judges scored it 115-113 for Foster, while one scored it 115-113 for Conceição. Conceição dethroned Foster with a hard-fought verdict in July, prompting the rematch less than four months later. By the seventh, Foster began to wear down Conceição. The Brazilian fired back, but Foster consistently defended against Conceição’s right hand, countering sharply with a right of his own. In the tenth, Foster buzzed Conceição with a one-two, but Conceição survived before trading blows in the championship rounds.
WBC / JULY 26, 2024: The WBC Board of Governors has ordered a direct rematch between WBC 130-pound champion Robson Conceciao and the man he controversially beat for the title last month, former champ O'Shaquie Foster. On July 6th, Conceicao upset Foster by split decision to win the WBC title in a tactical affair. Conceicao fell short in world title bids three times before but this time, the judges though he did just enough to win. The verdict that sparked immediate debate. Conceicao (19-2-1, 9 KOs) prevailed by scores of 116-112 and 115-113, while Foster held a 116-112 edge on the third card. Boxingtalk reviewed the fight and scored it 115-113 for Foster.
IBF / MAY 19, 2024: Anthony Cacace (22-1, 8 KOs) is now the IBF champion after stopping Wales' Joe Cordina (17-1, 9 KOs) in round eight in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia. Cacace, from Belfast, Northern Ireland, became a world champion at the advanced age of 35. Punchstats credited Cacace with outlanding Cordina, 282 punches to 113. Cacace was breaking down Cordina against the ropes when the referee delcared the bout over and Cacace the new champion.
WBO / MAY 19, 2024: He tried moving up to 135 pounds, but Emanuel Navarrete (38-2-1, 31 KOs) failed in his attempt to become a four-division champion.On the same day Oleksandr Usyk captured the undisputed world heavyweight championsip, Usyk's 2012 Olympic temmate, Denys Berinchyk defeated Navarrete by split decision to win the vacant WBO lightweight world title in San Diego. Berinchyk prevailed by scores of 116-112 and 115-113, while Navarrete won the third card, 116-112. Navarrete remains the WBO 130-pound champion.
WBA / NOV. 26, 2023: In Las Vegas, Lamont Roach wrested away Héctor García’s WBA super featherweight title in his second attempt at a belt. Roach dropped García in the twelfth round and wound up winning a split decision by scores of 116-111, 114-113 and 113-114 in a technical and strategic fight. [The result is controversial as Roach appeared to knock Garcia down with an improper blow to the back of the head]. The knockdown caused the WBA title to change hands as it allowed Roach to avoid a split-draw. The punch in question was a the left hook that landed with 1:20 left in the fight and drove García into the canvas for the second time in his career. In 2019, Roach came up short in his first title shot against Jamel Herring, also a southpaw
WBO / NOV. 16, 2023... Robson Conceicao of Brazil showed incredible heart, battling through two knockdowns and an apparent broken nose to get a draw against WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete. Conceicao, age 35, is a three-time Olympian, gold medal winner and three time world title challenger. After a legitimate loss to Shakur Stevenson and a controversial one to Oscar Valdez in prior title fights, Conceicao was all smiles after the bruising stalemate. Official scores were 113-113 (twice) and 114-112 (Navarrete). With the draw, Navarrete retains his title.
IBF / NOV. 4, 2023: The IBF 130-pound title remained with Joe Cordina of Wales who edged Edward Vazquez of Texas via a debatable majority decision. After twelve exciting and very competitive rounds in Monte Carlo, the three neutral judges scored it 114-114 and 116-112 (twice) for Cordina. Now 19-2 including the World Series of Boxing, Cordina is regarded as one of the best British fighters today and is a two-time champion. Cordina's first reign ended due to injury, and both of his losses date back to the Word Series of Boxing. Vazquez returns to Texas at 15-2, with both losses being controversial. Most feel Vazquez was robbed against Raymond Ford in 2022.
WBC / OCT. 29, 2023: O'Shaquie Foster was in position to lose by split decision before gaining a thrilling twelfth-round technical knockout victory over Eduardo Hernandez on Saturday. Fighting a Mexican in Cancun, Mexico, Foster and Hernandez went to war in round eleven. Foster was then three minutes away from losing his title to some very bad judging, as he entered the final round trailing on two of the official scorecards by 110-99 and 107-102. Foster led on the third scorecard by 106-103 but that would not have been enought to save his title. So he came out aggressively and kept his WBC super featherweight championship by knocking Hernandez down and then stopping him. It was dramatic stuff from the Houston resident, who is now 21-2 on ths his career. Boxingtalk salutes Hernandez, who is now 34-2, as well as Foster.
WBO / AUG. 12, 2023: Emanuel Navarrete defeated former two-division champion Oscar Valdez in a classic Mexican war held in Glendale, Arizona. Navarrete, a three-division champion, retained the WBO junior lightweight championship by unanimous decision. The official scores were 116-112, 118-110 and 119-109. Navarrete threw 1038 punches according to Compubox, outlanding Valdez 216-140. Valdez finished with swelling plus a deep bruise under his right eye. Valdez has now failed in his last two title fights, vs. Shakur Stevenson and now Navarrete.
IBF/ APRIL 24, 2023: Joe Cordina became a two-time IBF 130-pound champion, winning a unanimous decision over Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov in a thriller of a bout held in Cordina's native Wales. The two men both entered the fight undefeated, as Cordina briefly held the title last year but had to give it up due to injury. The vacant belt was then won by Rakhimov last November, setting up Saturday's match
WBC / FEB. 12, 2023: With the words “ice water” and “shock the world” etched on his trunks, O’Shaquie Foster produced the fight of his life, coolly and methodically outboxing two-division champion Rey Vargas to capture the vacant WBC junior lightweight championship in his first title shot at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. Foster, who normally switches to southpaw in his fights, fought orthodox for the entire twelve rounds with the objective of befuddling Vargas. He won by scores of 116-112, 117-111 and 119-109 in a dominant, albeit very competitive win. “I can’t put it into words (what this means),” Foster said in the ring afterward. “I know my mom, my uncle, my grandpa, they are all looking down on me.” Vargas was returning to the Alamodome after winning the WBC featherweight championship in his last bout with a decision victory over Mark Magsayo at the same venue last July. He still holds that title, so a return to 126 pounds may be in the cards for Vargas.
WBO / FEB. 4, 2023: In Glendale, Arizona, Mexico's Emanuel Navarrete (37-1) survived a knockdown and stopped Australia's Liam Wilson (11-2) in a thriller to earn the vacant WBO 130-pound championship. By claiming the title recently vacated by Shakur Stevenson, Navarrete become a three-division champion. Though Wilson lost, he established himself as a skillful and exciting boxer, and earned a return invitiation to the world stage. In round four, Navarrete was knocked down for the first time in his career. As Navarrete lunged forward with a punch, Wilson caught him with a combination that floored and hurt Navarrete. Luckily for him, Navarrete got critical extra seconds of recovery time as his mouth piece needed to be replaced, and Navarrete struggled to put in correctly. Round seven saw Navarrete swing the momentum his way, as blood began to flow freely from Wilson's nose. In round eight, Wilson appeared to be fighting the wrong kind of fight, looking for one big shot while Navarrete landed multiple blows upstairs and downstairs. Navarrete's body work paid off in round nine, as he knocked down Wilson in the first minute with a one-two combination. Wilson got up, but was clearly drained. He absorbed a lot of hard punches, stumbled badly in the middle of the ring, and seemed unable to tie up Navarrete up. When Navarrete trapped Wilson against the rope and began raining in punches, the referee had no choice but to stop the bout.
WBA / JAN. 8, 2023: In Washington D.C., Gervonta Davis defeated WBA 130-pound champion Hector Luis Garcia in a 135-pound bout in which Garcia's title was not at stake. Davis' feared punching power did not produce the knockout the fans were looking for, but it nonetheless proved to be Garcia's undoing. After seven competitive rounds, Davis began consistently landing power punches in round eight. Garcia was staggered but survived until the end of the round. Garcia was guided back to his corner in clear distress and told trainer Bob Santos he could not see. Garcia did not come out for round ten, and Davis was the winner by technical knockout. Davis remains the WBA regular title holder in the lightweight division, while the battered Garcia also retains the WBA junior lightweight title, which was not on the line because this was a lightweight bout. Davis led the cards at the time of the stoppage, 78-74 (twice) and 79-73. Punchstats gave Davis the lead in punches landed, 99-55.
IBF / NOV 6, 2022: In Abu Dhabi, Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov won the vacant IBF 130-pound title after the IBF stripped Joe Cordina for having hand surgery. Rakhimov defeated Zelfa Barrett by ninth-round technical knockout. The new champ is from Tajikistan and boasts a pro record of 16-0-1 with the draw coming in a prior IBF title shot vs. Joseph "JoJo" Diaz last year. Barrett was doing well in the fight as a whole, even knocking Rakhimov down with a huge uppercut early in the contest. But according to DAZN, something happened in the ninth round and Barrett's leg appeared to be injured. It looked like Barrett couldn't put full weight on his right leg, and Rakhimov took advantage with a flurry of hard shots to knock Barrett down twice. At the point the fight was stopped, the referee did not administer a count, although Barrett's corner was ready to throw in the towel. The British Barrett is now 28-2.
IBF / OCT. 5, 2022: Joe Cordina had this to say about getting stripped by the IBF of his 130-pound championship because he had hand surgery (he posted a picture on social media to prove it): "Absolutely gutted. Worked my whole life to become a world champion and I haven’t even had the chance to defend the title Feel like I’ve been robbed !!" Zelfa Barrett will face Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov for the vacant IBF 130-pound championship on a Matchroom show at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Saturday November 5th. Rakhimov (16-0-1, 13 KOs) gets a second opportunity to fight for the 130-pound crown following his draw with an overweight Joseph Diaz last year.
WBC & WBO / SEPT. 23, 2022: At Thursday's weigh-in in Newark, New Jersey, hometown hero Shakur Stevenson could not get below 131.6 pounds, and therefore lost the WBO and WBC 130-pound championships on the scale. His ESPN main event vs. Robson Conceição is still on, with the Brazilian challenger still eligible to win the titles. If Stevenson wins the twelve-round bout, the two titles become vacant. Conceição made weight with a bit to spare at 129.6. [Stevenson won the fight, so the titles remained vacant until February 2023 when O'Shaquie Foster defeated Rey Vargas for the WBC and Emanuel Navarrete stopped Liam WIlson for the WBO].
WBA / AUG. 21, 2022: Hector Luis Garcia of the Dominican Republic dethroned Roger Gutierrez for the WBA 130-pound championship. From San Juan de la Maguana, Garcia (16-0) proved that his dominant win against Chris Colbert in February wasn’t a fluke. Garcia, a former Olympian, dictated the action and survived a late rally to wrest the WBA title from Gutierrez via unanimous decision. Scores were 117-111 (twice) and 118-110.
IBF / JUNE 4, 2022: Wales has a new world champion as Joe Cordina had a dream-come-true moment in Cardiff. Fightng in front of a passionate hometown crowd, Cordina claimed the IBF 130-pound championship from Japan's Kenichi Ogawa with a turn-out-the-lights right hand. The one-punch, knockout-of-the-year candidate came in round two and saw Ogawa struggling to stand up, only to fall back down as the referee reched the ten count. Cordina was outboxed in the first round, but he made it all irrelevant with one punch a round later. He's been credited as the 13th world champion from Wales. Cordina is listed as 15-0, but Boxingtalk recognizes the World Series of Boxing as professional, so we report him as 17-1. Ogawa, a former drug cheat in 2017, is now 26-2-1.
WBC & WBO / MAY 21, 2022: WBO junior lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson unified two titles when he outboxed WBC champion Oscar Valdez via unanimous decision on Saturday in front of 10,102 fans in Las Vegas. After twelve rounds, the judges declared Newark, New Jersey's Stevenson the winner by scores of 118-109 (twice) and 117-110. Stevenson (20-0 including the World Series of Boxing) established the southpaw jab in the early going, and Valdez (30-1, 23 KOs) could not get his offense going outside of pockets of success in the third round. In the sixth, Stevenson spun Valdez into the ropes and knocked him down with a right hand. It was all Stevenson in the second half of the fight, who built an insurmountable lead on the cards. Valdez won the final round on all three judges' cards, but it was too little, too late.
IBF / NOV. 21, 2021... In the Madison Square Garden co-feature, Japan's Kenichi Ogawa became the new IBF super featherweight champion, dropping South Africa's Azinga Fuzile three times on the way to a unanimous decision. Official scores were 115-110 (twice) and 114-111 for Ogawa to claim the vacant title. A former drug cheat, Ogawa is now 26-1-1 but also has a no contest after testing positive in a fight vs. Tevin Farmer in 2017. Fuzile is now 15-2. The title became vacant ealier this year when JoJo Diaz failed to make the 130-pound limit for a fight.
WBO / OCT. 24, 2021: In Atlanta, Shakur Stevenson stopped Jamel Herring (23-3, 11 KOs) on cuts in round ten to become the new WBO junior lightweight champion. There were no knockdowns, but Herring was well behind on the cards and a cut over his left eye was rapidly worsening from Stevenson's punches. Although he was not badly hurt, Herring did not complain much about referee Mark Nelson's stoppage. The undefeated Stevenson is now a two-division title holder (as well as an Olympic silver medalist), having previously won a featherweight title before moving up in weight. As soon as the fight ended, talk began about Stevenson's next foe. The top name on his list is the WBC champion at 130 pounds, Mexico's Oscar Valdez.
WBC / SEPT. 11, 2021: In Tucson, Arizona, WBC 130-pound champion Oscar Valdez started slow but got some home cooking to help him remain a champion. Robson Conceicao was fighting the fight of his life, likely winning the first five rounds although not getting credit from the judges for it. The champion then turned it around. Valdez retained his title Friday evening with a unanimous decision over 2016 Brazilian Olympian gold medalist Conceicao. Official scores were 115-112 (twice) and a corrupt or incompetent 117-110. [Punchstat numbers favored Conceicao widely, 141 punches landed to 83. Valdez's face was completely marked up from the punches he absorbed. The referee did his part to assist Valdez by making a ridiculous and unjustified point deduction againt the challenger for a minor tap to the back of the head. Not even a warning for Conceicao but Valdez did the same thing and suffered no penalty. Valdez probably should not have even been allowed to fight, as he tested positive for a VADA-banned substance last week.
WBO / APRIL 23, 2021: Jamel Herring stops and retires the respected Carl Frampton a former two-division champion. With the win, Herring retained his WBO championship.
WBC / FEB. 20, 2021: In Las Vegas, Oscar Valdez and Miguel Berchelt promised an all-Mexican clash for the ages. They delivered. Valdez knocked out Berchelt with a left hook at the end of the tenth round to win the WBC super featherweight title from Berchelt, who was making his seventh title defense. The hook crumpled Berchelt, who fell face-first to the canvas, and referee Russell Mora immediately waved off the fight. Valdez, a former WBO featherweight champion, is now a two-division champion and a major star in boxing. Berchelt (38-2, 34 KOs) had been badly hurt and knocked down in the fourth, but steadied himself and continued to pressure Valdez (29-0, 23 KOs) throughout the middle rounds. Valdez turned the tide once again in the ninth with a knockdown, and with the tenth round in hand, he lowered the boom.
WBA / JAN. 2, 2021: Venezuela's Roger Gutierrez defeated Nicaragua's Rene Alvarado by an extremely narrow unanimous decision in Dallas on Saturday. Gutierrez, who had a prior loss to Alvarado in 2017, scored three knockdowns this time around and needed every one of them to capture the three scorecards by 113-112. It was a very close fight that had Alvarez ahead but things were still up for grabs going into the final round. A twelfth-round left hook from Gutierrez sent Alvarado to the canvas for the third time and proved to be the difference on the scorecards. With the win, Gutierrez acquires the WBA regular junior lightweight title in a situation hopelessly mucked up by the WBA. Right now Gervonta Davis holds the WBA super championship in this division and also the WBA regular championship at lightweight, but under the WBA rules, a super championship in at 130 pounds should never have been issued. So Gutierrez has a stronger claim to being the WBA 130-pound champion than Davis.
WBA / NOV. 24, 2019: A confrontation between veterans ended with a technical knockout in favor of Nicaragua's Rene Alvarado, who defeated California's Andrew Cancio to become the WBA junior lightweight champion. Alvarado (32-8), never considered true world-class material, surprised the fans in Indio, California by dominating Cancio for seven rounds. As soon as round seven ended, referee Raul Caiz, Sr. made a wise decision and stopped the bout. Alvarado broke down in tears in his corner. At one point, Alvarado was 24-8 but has now reeled off eight straight wins. Alvarado's twin brother is Felix Alvarado, the IBF 108-pound champion, meaning they have duplicated the Charlo brothers' feat as simultaneous twin champions.
WBA / JUNE 22, 2019: A boxing Cinderella story continued in true Arturo Gatti fashion on Friday in Indio, California. In an immediate rematch, Andrew Cancio fought through a bad cut to knock out Alberto Machado and retain his WBA regular 130-pound championship. Cancio, who is not hard to hit, suffered a cut forhead in round two, but he immediately began walking Machado down, landing hard body punches that quickly took all the steam out of Machado. Cutman Carlos Vargas did a phenomenal job stopping the bleeding, and Cancio picked up right where he left off to start round three. A nasty Cancio left hook to the side put his opponent down on one knee, and the deflated Machado got up an instant after the referee reached the ten count. No controversy. The result is similar to their first fight, in which Cancio's body attack stopped Machado in four rounds. Cancio is an unlikely champion: he retired from boxing in 2016 and remains a full-time employee of California Gas & Electric. Cancio (20-4-2) holds a title that it listed by the WBA as secondary to Gervonta Davis' super championship, but Cancio's title is no less legitimate than Davis', as Cancio beat a reigning title holder (Machado) to get his belt while Davis beat a non-champion who had lost his prior fight (Jesus Cuellar) to acquire the super championship
WBO / MAY 26, 2019: Marine Corps veteran Jamel Herring completed his Hollywood story, upsetting WBO junior lightweight champion Masayuki Ito via unanimous decision Saturday evening at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida. It was a highly active yet largely tactical match-up between Ito (25-2-1, 13 KOs) and Herring (20-2, 10 KOs). With Herring’s stamina fading slightly down the stretch, Ito’s best rounds came in the final quarter of the fight, however it was too little too late as Herring won a unanimous decision by scores of 116-112 and 118-110 (twice). Herring accomplished his championship dream on Memorial Day weekend in front of a host of active and reserve U.S. Marines.
WBO / JULY 29, 2018: Masayuki Ito traveled halfway around the world but he will return home with the WBO 130-pound championship. Ito, from Tokyo, defeated Puerto Rico's Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz via unanimous decision (116-111, 117-110, 118-109) on Saturday evening at the Kissimmee (Florida) Civic Center. Ito claimed the title that had been vacated by Vasyl Lomachenko. Ito (24-1-1, 12 KOs) knocked down Diaz (23-1, 15 KOs) in the fourth round and controlled the tempo of the fight. Ito, who was fighting for the first time outside of Japan, was not fazed by the pro-Diaz crowd
WBC / JAN 29, 2017: The WBC 130-pound title now belongs to Miguel Berchelt, who punished Francisco Vargas in Indio, California. The HBO Boxing After Dark fight went on a couple of rounds too long as Berchelt turned Vargas’ face into a bloody wreck. The ringside physician declined two opportunities to stop the fight, and when it was over, the cut above Vargas’ left eye was longer than the eye itself. Berchelt is now 30-1, with lone loss coming in 2014 to non-contender Luis Eduardo Florez. Bechelt’s first defense could be against former WBC champion Takashi Miura, who won an eliminator on the undercard. Another possibility is Orlando Salido, a former featherweight champion who recently drew with Vargas. Meanwhile, Vargas is now 23-1-1, and showed some effects from back-to-back wars vs. Miura and Salido.
IBF / JAN. 14, 2017: Baltimore's Gervonta "Tank" Davis (17-0 with 16 KOs) punished and stopped Jose Pedraza (22-1 with 12 KOs) to claim the IBF 130-pound championship. Just 22 years old, Davis is built like Mike Tyson. He certainly fought in a Tysonesque manner, bulling forward to take the Puerto Rican Pedraza's title in round seven. Davis started aggressively and landed some hard shots in the opening round. Davis continued to show he meant business, hitting Pedraza when Pedraza was down on a slip in round two and engaging in rabbit punches in round three. In the fourth round, Pedraza made some adjustments, landing enough to make Davis shake his head no, trying to indicate he wasn't hurt. In the fifth, Pedraza controlled the action for most of the round until both men put on a display of machismo, thrilling the crowd by trading punches with their hands down. Davis hurt Pedraza badly with a left hook to the ribs, forcing Pedraza to fight the remainder of the round with his right hand down to cover the rib. Davis punished the one-handed Pedraza accordingly, and it looked as though the fight might be stopped by the ringside doctor between rounds. The seventh round eventually got started, and the weakened Pedraza could no nothing but absorb punishment against the ropes. A hard combination punctuated by a right decked Pedraza. The Puerto Rican beat the count but the referee wisely ended the bout immediately.
WBO / JUNE 11, 2016: Ukrainian Vasiliy Lomachenko defeated Roman "Rocky" Martinez in a fifth-round knockout at Madison Square Garden to become the WBO junior lightweight champion. Lomachenko, a two-time Olympic champion, is now a two-division professional champion. Lomachenko made a successful debut at 130 pounds with a spectacular, fifth-round knockout of Martinez. WBC / JUNE 6, 2016: Francisco Vargas and Orlando Salido fight to a draw, allowing Vargas to retain his WBC title. WBC / NOV. 21, 2015: In Las Vegas, Francisco Vargas and Takashi Miura gave boxing fans an instant classic. The Mexican Vargas (23-0-1) took the WBC 130-pound championship from Japan's Takashi Miura (29-3-2). In round one, Vargas nearly knocked Takashi down with a looping right hand. Despite doing his best to make it an early night, Vargas was unable to finish Miura off. Soon, Miura began to time his left hand and he dropped Vargas with a straight right hand at the end of round four. After being cut under his right eye by an accidental clash of heads in the earlier rounds, Miura opened a cut on top of Vargas' eye turning his face into a bloody mask. Rounds 5-8 were all Miura, as the soon-to-be-ex champ landed the cleaner, harder shots for the majority of those frames. But Vargas was not to be denied. He came out blazing in the ninth and dropped Miura with a series of heavy shots. After flopping around on the canvas, Miura made it to his feet and his found his balance. After not punching back for nearly 30 seconds, referee Tony Weeks appeared to stop the bout just when it seemed Miura was getting his feet back under him. IBF / JUNE 14, 2015: In the opening bout of the Showtime doubleheader from Birmingham, Alabama, Jose Pedraza (20-0, 12 KOs) dominated Andrey Klimov (20-1, 9 KOs) from the opening bell to claim the vacant IBF junior lightweight title with a unanimous decision victory. The Puerto Rican Pedraza, making his 2015 debut, triumphed by the scores of 120-108 (twice) and 119-109. The IBF title was last held by Cuba's Rances Barthelemy. WBO/ APRIL 11, 2015: Score one for Puerto Rico in its boxing rivalry vs. Mexico. In San Juan, Roman "Rocky" Martinez won the WBO 130-pound championship by unanimous decision over Mexico's Orlando Salido. Martinez knocked Salido down in the third and fifth rounds, and Salido was also penalized for low blows in the eleventh. Martinez carried the scorecards by tallies of 115-110, 114-111 and 116-109. Salido previously had great success over Puerto Rican rivals, including Juan Manuel Lopez, but having turned pro at age 15, the now 34 year-old Salido has absorbed a lot of punishment over his career. He was taken to the hospital after the fight. Salido is now 42-13-2 with 1 no contest in a long and honorable career. Martinez (29-2-2) now begins his third reign as the WBO 130-pound champion. Both times, his title was taken from him under dubious circumstances (vs. Ricky Burns in 2010 and Mikey Garcia in 2013). WBO / OCT. 17, 2014: Orlando Salido has earned his warrior stripes many times over, but this week, he got a free pass to a paper championship. The WBO handed Salido a title belt in the 130-pound weight class. Salido, who held featherweight titles on multiple occasions, was handed the title because the prior titlist, Mikey Garcia, is embroiled in a lawsuit with Top Rank over his promotional rights, and Garcia intends to move up to 140 pounds anyway. Garcia has not fought since January and has no fight on the horizon. Garcia beat Salido controversially at 126 pounds in 2013 when Garcia, ahead on points, quit on his stool after eight rounds. The bout was allowed to go to the scorecards when it appeared that Salido, although losing most rounds, should have won by technical knockout because the injury to Garcia was caused by a punch. In any event, Garcia moved up to 130 and took the WBO title from Roman Martinez. Last month, with Garcia on the sideline due to the lawsuit, Salido defeated Terdsak Kokietgym of Thailand for an interim title. That title has now been updated from interim to full.
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Late results: Jason Sanchez resurrects career with road win |
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Jason Sanchez scored a ten-round split decision over previously undefeated Julian Gonzalez... Veteran junior lightweight Jason Sanchez scored a ten-round split decision over previously undefeated Julian Gonzalez last Friday night at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The show was promoted by King's Promotions. Sanchez pressured Gonzalez throughout the fight. Gonzalez did well by countering off the ropes over the first several rounds. In round four, Gonzalez started getting through with combinations that seemed to bother Gonzalez. In round five, a perfect left to the body sent Gonzalez to his knees for a knockdown. Sanchez continued his pressure tactics with Gonzalez trying to work himself back into the fight in the late rounds. It was too little, too late as Sanchez got the decision on the road. Sanchez of Albuquerque, NM, challenged Oscar Valdez for a featherweight title in 2019, is now 17-6. Gonzalez of Reading, PA is 16-1-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Shannel Butler stopped veteran Cara Mclaughlin in round three of their sox-round featherweight bout. Butler dominated and in round three, she set off a big flurry of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 1:12. Butler of Philadelphia is now 3-0 with two knockouts. Mclaughlin of New York via Derry, UK is 2-13.
Brendan O'Callaghan pounded out a four-round unanimous decision over Travis Floyd in a middleweight bout. Scores were 39-37 on all cards for O'Callaghan of Philadelphia who is now 7-4-1. Floyd of Douglasville, GA is 4-15-2.
Alexandre Dokvadze got his pro career off to a good start by stopping Mike Diorio in the opening round of their four-round cruiserweight bout. Dokvadze of the Georgia Republic is 1-0 with one knockout. Diorio of Cortland, NY is 1-14-2.
Daetwon Young Garret stropped tough-as-nails Carlos Avelar in the fourth and final round of their welterweight bout. Young hit Avelar with everything over the first two rounds and the debutant did not budge. Finally a knockdown in round three and more flush punches stopped the bout at 47 seconds of the final stanza. Young Garret of York, PA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Avelar of Watertown, CT is 0-1.
Ali Ellis remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Lemir Isom Riley in a heavyweight bout. Ellis of Philadelphia won by scores of 59-55 (twice) and 58-56 and is now 7-0-1. Riley of New Cumberland, PA is 4-6.
Sadarius Simmons made a successful pro debut with a first-round stoppage over Michael Shaw in a four-round heavyweight bout. Simmons of Flint, MI is 1-0. Shaw of Atlanta is 0-4.
Emmanuel Chance stopped Gorwar Karyah in the opening round of their four-round bantamweight fight. Chance of East Orange, NJ is 2-0 with one knockout.. Karyah of Philadelphia is 2-6.
King's Promotions is back on Saturday, July 12th at The County Coliseum in El Paso, Texas. Then on September 5th, King's Promotions will be back at the Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA with an outstanding card the will be streamed live DAZN
, is one of the most anticipated bouts in the 108-pound divisi
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Late results: Jason Sanchez resurrects career with road win
Jason Sanchez scored a ten-round split decision over previously undefeated Julian Gonzalez... Veteran junior lightweight Jason Sanchez scored a ten-round split decision over previously undefeated Julian Gonzalez last Friday night at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The show was promoted by King's Promotions. Sanchez pressured Gonzalez throughout the fight. Gonzalez did well by countering off the ropes over the first several rounds. In round four, Gonzalez started getting through with combinations that seemed to bother Gonzalez. In round five, a perfect left to the body sent Gonzalez to his knees for a knockdown. Sanchez continued his pressure tactics with Gonzalez trying to work himself back into the fight in the late rounds. It was too little, too late as Sanchez got the decision on the road. Sanchez of Albuquerque, NM, challenged Oscar Valdez for a featherweight title in 2019, is now 17-6. Gonzalez of Reading, PA is 16-1-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Shannel Butler stopped veteran Cara Mclaughlin in round three of their sox-round featherweight bout. Butler dominated and in round three, she set off a big flurry of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 1:12. Butler of Philadelphia is now 3-0 with two knockouts. Mclaughlin of New York via Derry, UK is 2-13.
Brendan O'Callaghan pounded out a four-round unanimous decision over Travis Floyd in a middleweight bout. Scores were 39-37 on all cards for O'Callaghan of Philadelphia who is now 7-4-1. Floyd of Douglasville, GA is 4-15-2.
Alexandre Dokvadze got his pro career off to a good start by stopping Mike Diorio in the opening round of their four-round cruiserweight bout. Dokvadze of the Georgia Republic is 1-0 with one knockout. Diorio of Cortland, NY is 1-14-2.
Daetwon Young Garret stropped tough-as-nails Carlos Avelar in the fourth and final round of their welterweight bout. Young hit Avelar with everything over the first two rounds and the debutant did not budge. Finally a knockdown in round three and more flush punches stopped the bout at 47 seconds of the final stanza. Young Garret of York, PA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Avelar of Watertown, CT is 0-1.
Ali Ellis remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Lemir Isom Riley in a heavyweight bout. Ellis of Philadelphia won by scores of 59-55 (twice) and 58-56 and is now 7-0-1. Riley of New Cumberland, PA is 4-6.
Sadarius Simmons made a successful pro debut with a first-round stoppage over Michael Shaw in a four-round heavyweight bout. Simmons of Flint, MI is 1-0. Shaw of Atlanta is 0-4.
Emmanuel Chance stopped Gorwar Karyah in the opening round of their four-round bantamweight fight. Chance of East Orange, NJ is 2-0 with one knockout.. Karyah of Philadelphia is 2-6.
King's Promotions is back on Saturday, July 12th at The County Coliseum in El Paso, Texas. Then on September 5th, King's Promotions will be back at the Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA with an outstanding card the will be streamed live DAZN
, is one of the most anticipated bouts in the 108-pound divisi
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Why It's Time to Rank and Respect Jake Paul |
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As someone who has followed boxing for years and worked across its business and promotional sides, I never expected to find myself defending Jake Paul. But I also can't deny what I see. Jake Paul has done more to revive interest in boxing-especially among younger fans and women - than most fighters with twice the experience. And whether traditionalists like it or not, he's earned a place in the sport's present-and likely its future.
In boxing, the term "rankings" once meant a sacred shortlist reserved for the sport's most battle-tested warriors. But as the sport evolves - economically, culturally, and digitally - so too must its metrics of recognition. Jake Paul, who just a few years ago was dismissed as a YouTuber dabbling in boxing, now finds himself ranked #14 by the World Boxing Association (WBA) in the cruiserweight division. And the backlash has been swift.
But here's the uncomfortable truth for boxing purists: the WBA got it right. And if any sanctioning body wants to remain relevant in a changing landscape, Jake Paul should not only be ranked-he should be taken seriously.
Jake Paul vs. Badou Jack: A Fight That Ends the Debate
If there's a single fight that would silence doubters and make Jake Paul's status in the sport undeniable, it's this: Jake Paul vs. Badou Jack, the current WBC cruiserweight champion and one of the most respected, battle-proven veterans in the game. Jack, who is closely aligned with Turki Alalshikh [chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority and the most influential figure in global boxing today] is seen as a throwback to traditional boxing values: discipline, longevity, grit.
Paul, by contrast, is viewed by some as a social media disruptor with a camera and gloves. But here's the irony: Paul has fought higher-caliber opposition than most prospects with the similar experfience levels. Paul is competitive, athletic, and improving. A bout between the two wouldn't be a circus, it would be a crossroads fight. If Paul truly wants to put the debate to rest, challenging Badou Jack is the way to do it. It forces the hand of the critics, particularly those in Alalshikh's circle, who have vocally dismissed Paul as unworthy of sanctioning body recognition.
What better way to prove your legitimacy than by taking on the champion favored by the most powerful man in modern boxing? Even if Paul doesn't win, a competitive and respectable performance against a world champion like Jack would validate his standing and silence many of the remaining critics. In boxing, it's not always about the win - it's about how you perform when the lights are brightest. And Jake Paul has shown time and again that he delivers when the stakes are high.
Responding to the Critics: Boxing's Old Guard vs. the New Era
Jake Paul's critics are loud, passionate, and rooted in tradition. They argue that he hasn't paid his dues, that he hasn't faced a ranked opponent, or that his rise is more spectacle than sport. But here's what they're missing: Jake Paul has done more to spark conversation, sell tickets, and bring global attention to boxing in his short career than most fighters do in their entire lifetimes. Critics conveniently forget that boxing has always been about more than just the number of fights. It's about who can command attention, create demand, and deliver when the lights are on. From Jack Johnson to Mike Tyson, from Floyd Mayweather to Tyson Fury - controversial, charismatic figures have always moved the sport forward. Jake Paul is simply the modern version of that formula, and boxing should embrace the energy, not resist it.
The reality is that boxing has become a niche sport, dominated for years by an aging audience and often ignored by the mainstream. Jake Paul has disrupted that pattern. He's brought in a younger demographic, attracted casual fans, and, perhaps most meaningfully, he has done more to elevate women's boxing than anyone else. This simply can't be ignored. Look no further than his role in promoting Amanda Serrano. Through his platform and business acumen, Serrano and Katie Taylor headlined Madison Square Garden in one of the most significant women's fights in boxing history. And unlike many promoters of the past, Paul pushed for fairer purses and legitimate spotlight. Serrano, who once fought for world titles for pennies, is now earning what champions deserve. That's because of Jake Paul.
So when critics argue that Paul is in it for himself, the facts say otherwise. He's put his platform behind other fighters-especially women-and used his reach to push the sport forward, not just his own narrative.
The WBA Took a Risk and Got It Right
The WBA is taking heat for ranking Jake Paul at #14, but let's be clear: their decision is not just defensible, it's visionary. Jake Paul is arguably more talked about, more marketable, and more influential than 95% of ranked fighters in any weight class. That matters. Rankings are not - and never have been - solely about resumes. They are about relevance, activity, fan interest, and growth potential.
In an era when boxing is struggling to capture mainstream attention outside of its diehards, the WBA chose to embrace the future, not protect the past. They recognized that Paul's presence in the rankings doesn't cheapen the sport, it invites millions of new fans to care about it. That kind of reach and engagement is something the sport desperately needs to survive and thrive.
Fighters Ranked Early with Limited Fights - The Precedent Exists (Even Ali Didn't Command This Much Attention At First)
Jake Paul has 11 professional fights, and while critics question his ranking, many boxers have been ranked or even handed title shots with the same or fewer: Vasyl Lomachenko fought for a world title in just his second pro fight [eight if you count the World Series of Boxing] and won one in his third. Guillermo Rigondeaux was ranked and won a world title in his seventh fight. Shakur Stevenson and Naoya Inoue were fast-tracked into world rankings before reaching double-digit bouts.
What sets Paul apart? None of those fighters drew even a fraction of the attention, digital reach, or pay-per-view sales that Paul generates. They were ranked on potential. Jake Paul has proven both potential and marketability in the ring. And when we look back through boxing history, it is nearly impossible to find a fighter with only 11 bouts who has commanded the kind of global attention, financial power, and cultural impact that Jake Paul has. He is not just another prospect, he is a once-in-a-generation disruptor forcing the sport to reckon with its own outdated models.
Even when compared to the sport's greatest legends, Jake Paul's reach is extraordinary. Take Muhammad Ali, for instance. By his 11th professional fight in 1961, Ali (then known as Cassius Clay) was respected as an Olympic gold medalist and a fast-rising contender, but he had yet to become a household name globally. There was no social media, pay-per-view system, or instant global audience. His fame grew steadily, rooted in performance and charisma, but not amplified by algorithms, digital campaigns, or viral buzz.
Jake Paul, by contrast, has generated more attention, media coverage, and fan engagement in his first 11 fights than any boxer in history at the same stage-including Ali. That is not a knock on
Ali's greatness-it's a recognition of how powerful the modern media ecosystem can be when combined with calculated ambition and performance.
The Turki Alalshikh Paradox: Why One Disruptor Is Celebrated, and the Other Dismissed
Turki Alalshikh is now the most powerful man in boxing. Yet, just two years ago, he was a relative unknown in the sport, with no in-ring experience. Since then, he has transformed boxing, staged landmark fights, and reshaped the business model. The boxing world didn't question whether he "earned" his influence. They embraced his vision and results. So why does Jake Paul face a different standard?
Like Turki, Jake Paul entered the sport as an outsider. But he too has invested, committed, and delivered. He trains, promotes, competes, and pulls in global audiences. If boxing can celebrate Turki's rise as a visionary, it should at least acknowledge Paul's legitimacy as a fighter. If Turki can be boxing's kingmaker without ever throwing a punch, Jake Paul deserves the dignity of a ranking for stepping between the ropes and fighting.
From Influencer to Disruptor: The Jake Paul Arc
From my own life experience, I recognize a rare psychological trait in Jake Paul, one I've seen in only a few people, and it's what makes him truly dangerous in the ring. The more he's doubted, the harder he works. The more critics say he doesn't belong, the more he pours fuel on the fire. There's a psychological compulsion in him to prove people wrong-not just once, but over and over again. And as he gains more experience, that belief in himself doesn't just grow, it multiplies. It's the kind of mindset that can't be taught. You either have it or you don't. Jake Paul has it. And that
relentless drive-fueled not by entitlement but by rejection-is exactly what makes him a serious threat to anyone who underestimates him.
Skeptics say Paul doesn't belong in boxing. But history says otherwise. Just look at how often the world gets disruptors wrong at first glance. Jeff Bezos was mocked for selling books online. Mark Zuckerberg was dismissed as a college dropout running a glorified social directory. Even Elon Musk was ridiculed for betting on electric cars and rockets. These figures weren't respected until they forced the world to take notice-not with legacy credentials, but with results. Jake Paul is following that same pattern in boxing. He may not come from the amateur ranks, but he's already disrupted the game-and the metrics that matter show he's here to stay.
Just look at the pattern across sports. Venus and Serena Williams were dismissed as sideshows coached by an overbearing father—until they dominated tennis and changed it forever. Tiger Woods was mocked for being too robotic and too different—and then won the Masters by twelve strokes, shattering the sport’s racial and generational barriers. Ronda Rousey was called a gimmick before becoming the face of women’s MMA. Tom Brady was drafted 199th overall and told he’d never start in the NFL. Now he’s the greatest quarterback of all time. Stephen Curry was doubted because he wasn’t big or athletic. Now he’s changed how basketball is played. Conor McGregor was laughed at for being brash and broke, collecting welfare in Dublin—until he took over the fight world. Jake Paul is walking a path that’s been walked before. And like those before him, he may be doubted now, but the smart money’s on him becoming undeniable.
Conclusion: Legacy Is Earned, Not Given but Jake Paul Is Earning It
Jake Paul doesn't need to convince everyone-but he's convinced enough people that he's no longer a gimmick. If he's willing to challenge a fighter like Badou Jack, the world must pay attention. And if the sanctioning bodies want to stay relevant in the streaming era of boxing, Jake Paul's ascent is not just acceptable, it's necessary. Because in the end, boxing isn't just about who you beat, it's about who's watching when you do. And Jake Paul has the world watching.
Editor's note: Charles Muniz is a respected boxing insider who has spent decades in the sport as an advisor and manager.
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Why It's Time to Rank and Respect Jake Paul
As someone who has followed boxing for years and worked across its business and promotional sides, I never expected to find myself defending Jake Paul. But I also can't deny what I see. Jake Paul has done more to revive interest in boxing-especially among younger fans and women - than most fighters with twice the experience. And whether traditionalists like it or not, he's earned a place in the sport's present-and likely its future.
In boxing, the term "rankings" once meant a sacred shortlist reserved for the sport's most battle-tested warriors. But as the sport evolves - economically, culturally, and digitally - so too must its metrics of recognition. Jake Paul, who just a few years ago was dismissed as a YouTuber dabbling in boxing, now finds himself ranked #14 by the World Boxing Association (WBA) in the cruiserweight division. And the backlash has been swift.
But here's the uncomfortable truth for boxing purists: the WBA got it right. And if any sanctioning body wants to remain relevant in a changing landscape, Jake Paul should not only be ranked-he should be taken seriously.
Jake Paul vs. Badou Jack: A Fight That Ends the Debate
If there's a single fight that would silence doubters and make Jake Paul's status in the sport undeniable, it's this: Jake Paul vs. Badou Jack, the current WBC cruiserweight champion and one of the most respected, battle-proven veterans in the game. Jack, who is closely aligned with Turki Alalshikh [chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority and the most influential figure in global boxing today] is seen as a throwback to traditional boxing values: discipline, longevity, grit.
Paul, by contrast, is viewed by some as a social media disruptor with a camera and gloves. But here's the irony: Paul has fought higher-caliber opposition than most prospects with the similar experfience levels. Paul is competitive, athletic, and improving. A bout between the two wouldn't be a circus, it would be a crossroads fight. If Paul truly wants to put the debate to rest, challenging Badou Jack is the way to do it. It forces the hand of the critics, particularly those in Alalshikh's circle, who have vocally dismissed Paul as unworthy of sanctioning body recognition.
What better way to prove your legitimacy than by taking on the champion favored by the most powerful man in modern boxing? Even if Paul doesn't win, a competitive and respectable performance against a world champion like Jack would validate his standing and silence many of the remaining critics. In boxing, it's not always about the win - it's about how you perform when the lights are brightest. And Jake Paul has shown time and again that he delivers when the stakes are high.
Responding to the Critics: Boxing's Old Guard vs. the New Era
Jake Paul's critics are loud, passionate, and rooted in tradition. They argue that he hasn't paid his dues, that he hasn't faced a ranked opponent, or that his rise is more spectacle than sport. But here's what they're missing: Jake Paul has done more to spark conversation, sell tickets, and bring global attention to boxing in his short career than most fighters do in their entire lifetimes. Critics conveniently forget that boxing has always been about more than just the number of fights. It's about who can command attention, create demand, and deliver when the lights are on. From Jack Johnson to Mike Tyson, from Floyd Mayweather to Tyson Fury - controversial, charismatic figures have always moved the sport forward. Jake Paul is simply the modern version of that formula, and boxing should embrace the energy, not resist it.
The reality is that boxing has become a niche sport, dominated for years by an aging audience and often ignored by the mainstream. Jake Paul has disrupted that pattern. He's brought in a younger demographic, attracted casual fans, and, perhaps most meaningfully, he has done more to elevate women's boxing than anyone else. This simply can't be ignored. Look no further than his role in promoting Amanda Serrano. Through his platform and business acumen, Serrano and Katie Taylor headlined Madison Square Garden in one of the most significant women's fights in boxing history. And unlike many promoters of the past, Paul pushed for fairer purses and legitimate spotlight. Serrano, who once fought for world titles for pennies, is now earning what champions deserve. That's because of Jake Paul.
So when critics argue that Paul is in it for himself, the facts say otherwise. He's put his platform behind other fighters-especially women-and used his reach to push the sport forward, not just his own narrative.
The WBA Took a Risk and Got It Right
The WBA is taking heat for ranking Jake Paul at #14, but let's be clear: their decision is not just defensible, it's visionary. Jake Paul is arguably more talked about, more marketable, and more influential than 95% of ranked fighters in any weight class. That matters. Rankings are not - and never have been - solely about resumes. They are about relevance, activity, fan interest, and growth potential.
In an era when boxing is struggling to capture mainstream attention outside of its diehards, the WBA chose to embrace the future, not protect the past. They recognized that Paul's presence in the rankings doesn't cheapen the sport, it invites millions of new fans to care about it. That kind of reach and engagement is something the sport desperately needs to survive and thrive.
Fighters Ranked Early with Limited Fights - The Precedent Exists (Even Ali Didn't Command This Much Attention At First)
Jake Paul has 11 professional fights, and while critics question his ranking, many boxers have been ranked or even handed title shots with the same or fewer: Vasyl Lomachenko fought for a world title in just his second pro fight [eight if you count the World Series of Boxing] and won one in his third. Guillermo Rigondeaux was ranked and won a world title in his seventh fight. Shakur Stevenson and Naoya Inoue were fast-tracked into world rankings before reaching double-digit bouts.
What sets Paul apart? None of those fighters drew even a fraction of the attention, digital reach, or pay-per-view sales that Paul generates. They were ranked on potential. Jake Paul has proven both potential and marketability in the ring. And when we look back through boxing history, it is nearly impossible to find a fighter with only 11 bouts who has commanded the kind of global attention, financial power, and cultural impact that Jake Paul has. He is not just another prospect, he is a once-in-a-generation disruptor forcing the sport to reckon with its own outdated models.
Even when compared to the sport's greatest legends, Jake Paul's reach is extraordinary. Take Muhammad Ali, for instance. By his 11th professional fight in 1961, Ali (then known as Cassius Clay) was respected as an Olympic gold medalist and a fast-rising contender, but he had yet to become a household name globally. There was no social media, pay-per-view system, or instant global audience. His fame grew steadily, rooted in performance and charisma, but not amplified by algorithms, digital campaigns, or viral buzz.
Jake Paul, by contrast, has generated more attention, media coverage, and fan engagement in his first 11 fights than any boxer in history at the same stage-including Ali. That is not a knock on
Ali's greatness-it's a recognition of how powerful the modern media ecosystem can be when combined with calculated ambition and performance.
The Turki Alalshikh Paradox: Why One Disruptor Is Celebrated, and the Other Dismissed
Turki Alalshikh is now the most powerful man in boxing. Yet, just two years ago, he was a relative unknown in the sport, with no in-ring experience. Since then, he has transformed boxing, staged landmark fights, and reshaped the business model. The boxing world didn't question whether he "earned" his influence. They embraced his vision and results. So why does Jake Paul face a different standard?
Like Turki, Jake Paul entered the sport as an outsider. But he too has invested, committed, and delivered. He trains, promotes, competes, and pulls in global audiences. If boxing can celebrate Turki's rise as a visionary, it should at least acknowledge Paul's legitimacy as a fighter. If Turki can be boxing's kingmaker without ever throwing a punch, Jake Paul deserves the dignity of a ranking for stepping between the ropes and fighting.
From Influencer to Disruptor: The Jake Paul Arc
From my own life experience, I recognize a rare psychological trait in Jake Paul, one I've seen in only a few people, and it's what makes him truly dangerous in the ring. The more he's doubted, the harder he works. The more critics say he doesn't belong, the more he pours fuel on the fire. There's a psychological compulsion in him to prove people wrong-not just once, but over and over again. And as he gains more experience, that belief in himself doesn't just grow, it multiplies. It's the kind of mindset that can't be taught. You either have it or you don't. Jake Paul has it. And that
relentless drive-fueled not by entitlement but by rejection-is exactly what makes him a serious threat to anyone who underestimates him.
Skeptics say Paul doesn't belong in boxing. But history says otherwise. Just look at how often the world gets disruptors wrong at first glance. Jeff Bezos was mocked for selling books online. Mark Zuckerberg was dismissed as a college dropout running a glorified social directory. Even Elon Musk was ridiculed for betting on electric cars and rockets. These figures weren't respected until they forced the world to take notice-not with legacy credentials, but with results. Jake Paul is following that same pattern in boxing. He may not come from the amateur ranks, but he's already disrupted the game-and the metrics that matter show he's here to stay.
Just look at the pattern across sports. Venus and Serena Williams were dismissed as sideshows coached by an overbearing father—until they dominated tennis and changed it forever. Tiger Woods was mocked for being too robotic and too different—and then won the Masters by twelve strokes, shattering the sport’s racial and generational barriers. Ronda Rousey was called a gimmick before becoming the face of women’s MMA. Tom Brady was drafted 199th overall and told he’d never start in the NFL. Now he’s the greatest quarterback of all time. Stephen Curry was doubted because he wasn’t big or athletic. Now he’s changed how basketball is played. Conor McGregor was laughed at for being brash and broke, collecting welfare in Dublin—until he took over the fight world. Jake Paul is walking a path that’s been walked before. And like those before him, he may be doubted now, but the smart money’s on him becoming undeniable.
Conclusion: Legacy Is Earned, Not Given but Jake Paul Is Earning It
Jake Paul doesn't need to convince everyone-but he's convinced enough people that he's no longer a gimmick. If he's willing to challenge a fighter like Badou Jack, the world must pay attention. And if the sanctioning bodies want to stay relevant in the streaming era of boxing, Jake Paul's ascent is not just acceptable, it's necessary. Because in the end, boxing isn't just about who you beat, it's about who's watching when you do. And Jake Paul has the world watching.
Editor's note: Charles Muniz is a respected boxing insider who has spent decades in the sport as an advisor and manager.
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Alalshikh says Mason will fight Noakes for vacant lightweight title |
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Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, posted on Twitter that Abdullah Mason will collide with Sam Noakes for the vacant WBO lightweight title, as part of the Riyadh Season event being planned for November. The WBO title was recently stripped from Keyshawn Davis for failing to make weight. Alalshikh (pictured) added that Mason -Noakes will be "a battle of undefeated fighters for the world title!" Earlier in the day, Alalshikh tweeted that, on the same show, David Benavidez will defend his WBC light heavyweight world title against Great Britain's Anthony Yarde. At 30-0, Benavidez is a three-time champion who lost his prior two titles outside the ring. His last fight was a career-best performance, a thrilling defeat of David Morrell in February. Yarde is 27-3 and has failed in title bids against Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev. In Yarde's last fight, he avenged his only other loss, defeating Lyndon Arthur by decision in April.
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Alalshikh says Mason will fight Noakes for vacant lightweight title
Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, posted on Twitter that Abdullah Mason will collide with Sam Noakes for the vacant WBO lightweight title, as part of the Riyadh Season event being planned for November. The WBO title was recently stripped from Keyshawn Davis for failing to make weight. Alalshikh (pictured) added that Mason -Noakes will be "a battle of undefeated fighters for the world title!" Earlier in the day, Alalshikh tweeted that, on the same show, David Benavidez will defend his WBC light heavyweight world title against Great Britain's Anthony Yarde. At 30-0, Benavidez is a three-time champion who lost his prior two titles outside the ring. His last fight was a career-best performance, a thrilling defeat of David Morrell in February. Yarde is 27-3 and has failed in title bids against Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev. In Yarde's last fight, he avenged his only other loss, defeating Lyndon Arthur by decision in April.
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CES signs four boxers ahead of July 19th show |
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As the summer heats up, so does CES Boxing with the signing of four sizzling young boxers just in time for 'Summer Heat 2025' on July 19th at Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut. Joining the CES Boxing roster are junior welterweight Jacob "Lefty"Marrero (9-0, 7 KOs) from Bridgeport, CT; lightweight Gianni Liguori (2-0-1, 2 KOs) from Branford, CT; junior middleweight Tyler Macari of Cranston, Rhode Island; and light heavyweight Ayowole Tom Jones of Providence, RI. The signings highlight CES Boxing’s continued commitment to developing the future global stars from New England.
The fast and explosive Marrero faces his toughest opponent yet on July 19th in Hartford-based Puerto Rican Alberto Mercado (17-7-1, 4 KOs). Marrero returned to the ring in 2024 after a five year hiatus, and has scored four knockouts over the course of five straight wins.
The charismatic Liguori looks to stay unbeaten against the tough-as-nails Anthony Mora (6-3-1, 4 KOs) of New Britain, CT. The event also marks the professional debut of two rising stars: Jones in a light heavyweight clash against Jhony Dos Santos (0-2)of Winchester, Massachusetts, and Macari in a junior middleweight contest against Arizona's Kevin Spraags (2-5).
“These are the kinds of young men who represent the future of CES Boxing,” said its Founder and President, Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. “They are hungry, fearless, and proud to represent their communities every time they step into the ring. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the CES family and can’t wait to showcase their talent on July 19th at one of the best arenas in the world.”
Tickets for 'Summer Heat 2025' at Mohegan Sun Arena on July 19 are available for purchase at cesfights.com, Ticketmaster and the Mohegan Sun Box Office.
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CES signs four boxers ahead of July 19th show
As the summer heats up, so does CES Boxing with the signing of four sizzling young boxers just in time for 'Summer Heat 2025' on July 19th at Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut. Joining the CES Boxing roster are junior welterweight Jacob "Lefty"Marrero (9-0, 7 KOs) from Bridgeport, CT; lightweight Gianni Liguori (2-0-1, 2 KOs) from Branford, CT; junior middleweight Tyler Macari of Cranston, Rhode Island; and light heavyweight Ayowole Tom Jones of Providence, RI. The signings highlight CES Boxing’s continued commitment to developing the future global stars from New England.
The fast and explosive Marrero faces his toughest opponent yet on July 19th in Hartford-based Puerto Rican Alberto Mercado (17-7-1, 4 KOs). Marrero returned to the ring in 2024 after a five year hiatus, and has scored four knockouts over the course of five straight wins.
The charismatic Liguori looks to stay unbeaten against the tough-as-nails Anthony Mora (6-3-1, 4 KOs) of New Britain, CT. The event also marks the professional debut of two rising stars: Jones in a light heavyweight clash against Jhony Dos Santos (0-2)of Winchester, Massachusetts, and Macari in a junior middleweight contest against Arizona's Kevin Spraags (2-5).
“These are the kinds of young men who represent the future of CES Boxing,” said its Founder and President, Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. “They are hungry, fearless, and proud to represent their communities every time they step into the ring. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the CES family and can’t wait to showcase their talent on July 19th at one of the best arenas in the world.”
Tickets for 'Summer Heat 2025' at Mohegan Sun Arena on July 19 are available for purchase at cesfights.com, Ticketmaster and the Mohegan Sun Box Office.
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BKFC holding open tryouts in Indiana |
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Do you think you have what it takes to fight in the Squared Circle? BKFC is hosting tryouts in Merrillville, Indiana on Saturday July 19th starting at noon and ending at 3:00 PM. The tryouts will be held at Team Colon Mixed Martial Arts located at 8215 Taney Pl. Unit D. Heavyweight 'Big' Ben Rothwell will be in attendance helping to scout the hopefuls. All interested parties should sign up ahead of time at https://www.bkfc.com/tryouts to receive a BKFC T-shirt and let BKFC know you are coming
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BKFC holding open tryouts in Indiana
Do you think you have what it takes to fight in the Squared Circle? BKFC is hosting tryouts in Merrillville, Indiana on Saturday July 19th starting at noon and ending at 3:00 PM. The tryouts will be held at Team Colon Mixed Martial Arts located at 8215 Taney Pl. Unit D. Heavyweight 'Big' Ben Rothwell will be in attendance helping to scout the hopefuls. All interested parties should sign up ahead of time at https://www.bkfc.com/tryouts to receive a BKFC T-shirt and let BKFC know you are coming
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Chavez Jr. arrested by ICE; deportation planned |
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The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained "prominent Mexican boxer and criminal illegal alien" Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., and is processing him for expedited removal from the United States. Chavez, a former champion over a decade ago, has remained out of the spotlight until last week's high-profile loss to social media superstar Jake Paul. Here is the official government press release: Chavez is a Mexican citizen who has an active arrest warrant in Mexico for his involvement in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives. In August 2023, he entered the country legally with a B2 tourist visa that was valid until February 2024. Chavez is also believed to be an affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. ICE arrested Chavez in Studio City, California on July 2nd.
On April 2, 2024, Chavez filed application for Lawful Permanent Resident status. Chavez’s application was based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen, who is connected to the Sinaloa Cartel through a prior relationship with the now-deceased son of the infamous cartel leader Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. On December 17, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services made a referral to ICE that Chavez is an egregious public safety threat. However, an entry in a DHS law enforcement system under the Biden administration indicated Chavez was not an immigration enforcement priority. On January 4, 2025, the Biden administration allowed Chavez to reenter the country and paroled him into the country at the San Ysidro port of entry. Following multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a Lawful Permanent Resident, he was determined to be in the country illegally and removable on June 27, 2025.
“This Sinaloa Cartel affiliate with an active arrest warrant for trafficking guns, ammunition, and explosives was arrested by ICE. It is shocking the previous administration flagged this criminal illegal alien as a public safety threat, but chose to not prioritize his removal and let him leave and COME BACK into our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Under President Trump, no one is above the law—including world-famous athletes. Our message to any cartel affiliates in the U.S. is clear: We will find you and you will face consequences. The days of unchecked cartel violence are over.”
[Chavez's] rap sheet is below:
On January 22, 2012, California Highway Patrol arrested Chavez and charged him with DUI alcohol/drugs and Driving Without a License.
On June 23, 2012, the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, convicted Chavez for the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol and sentenced him to 13 days in jail and 36 months’ probation.
On January 14, 2023, a District Judge issued an arrest warrant for Chavez, for the offense of organized crime for the purpose of committing crimes of weapons trafficking and manufacturing crimes, in the modality of those who participate in clandestinely bringing weapons, ammunition, cartridges, explosives into the country; and those who manufacture weapons, ammunition, cartridges, and explosives without the corresponding permit.
On January 7, 2024, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested Chavez and charged him with Illegal Possession of Any Assault Weapon and Manufacture or Import Short Barreled Rifle. The court convicted Chavez of these charges.
On his first day in office, President Donald J. Trump designated the Sinaloa Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The Sinaloa Cartel targeted and viciously murdered U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Nicholas Quets, and has kidnapped, tortured and killed many other Americans. The Sinaloa Cartel has also played a major role in the trafficking of fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexico border. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow vicious cartels to operate on American soil.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE JUNE 29, 2025... In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul got in ten rounds of good work but was never seriously challenged by Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul won nearly every round but failed to hurt Chavez, a former champion from 2011-2012 who hasn't taken boxing seriously for years. Paul tired over the last two rounds, allowing Chavez to save some face after a generally dismal performance. Still, Paul won a deserved lopsided unanimous decision by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is likely to enter the world rankings of at least one of the major sanctioning bodies. Compubox credited Paul with a 141-60 edge in punches landed. For the first three rounds, Chavez's offense was virtually nonexistent. With the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. screamimng from ringside in frustration, his son finally landed a punch just before the end of round three. Things heated up a bit in the fourth as Chavez began to come forward a little more, but Paul still won the round. Chavez simply would not let his hands go with any regularity, and the couple of times that he did when he was in punching range, Paul wisely tied Chavez up.The packed, pro-Mexican crowd tried to will Chavez forward over the second half of the fight, but Chavez lacked the energy to throw extended combinations. It should be remembered that Chavez is 39 years old and as a former middleweight champion now fighting at cruiserweight, he is 40 pounds over his best weight. The momentum turned in round nine as Paul tired and Chavez landed several good blows. The tenth round featured the best exchanges of the contest, as a tired Paul fought back against a surging, suddenly aggressive Chavez. The late rally was not enough to overcome the first eight rounds.
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Chavez Jr. arrested by ICE; deportation planned
The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained "prominent Mexican boxer and criminal illegal alien" Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., and is processing him for expedited removal from the United States. Chavez, a former champion over a decade ago, has remained out of the spotlight until last week's high-profile loss to social media superstar Jake Paul. Here is the official government press release: Chavez is a Mexican citizen who has an active arrest warrant in Mexico for his involvement in organized crime and trafficking firearms, ammunition, and explosives. In August 2023, he entered the country legally with a B2 tourist visa that was valid until February 2024. Chavez is also believed to be an affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. ICE arrested Chavez in Studio City, California on July 2nd.
On April 2, 2024, Chavez filed application for Lawful Permanent Resident status. Chavez’s application was based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen, who is connected to the Sinaloa Cartel through a prior relationship with the now-deceased son of the infamous cartel leader Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. On December 17, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services made a referral to ICE that Chavez is an egregious public safety threat. However, an entry in a DHS law enforcement system under the Biden administration indicated Chavez was not an immigration enforcement priority. On January 4, 2025, the Biden administration allowed Chavez to reenter the country and paroled him into the country at the San Ysidro port of entry. Following multiple fraudulent statements on his application to become a Lawful Permanent Resident, he was determined to be in the country illegally and removable on June 27, 2025.
“This Sinaloa Cartel affiliate with an active arrest warrant for trafficking guns, ammunition, and explosives was arrested by ICE. It is shocking the previous administration flagged this criminal illegal alien as a public safety threat, but chose to not prioritize his removal and let him leave and COME BACK into our country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Under President Trump, no one is above the law—including world-famous athletes. Our message to any cartel affiliates in the U.S. is clear: We will find you and you will face consequences. The days of unchecked cartel violence are over.”
[Chavez's] rap sheet is below:
On January 22, 2012, California Highway Patrol arrested Chavez and charged him with DUI alcohol/drugs and Driving Without a License.
On June 23, 2012, the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, convicted Chavez for the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol and sentenced him to 13 days in jail and 36 months’ probation.
On January 14, 2023, a District Judge issued an arrest warrant for Chavez, for the offense of organized crime for the purpose of committing crimes of weapons trafficking and manufacturing crimes, in the modality of those who participate in clandestinely bringing weapons, ammunition, cartridges, explosives into the country; and those who manufacture weapons, ammunition, cartridges, and explosives without the corresponding permit.
On January 7, 2024, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested Chavez and charged him with Illegal Possession of Any Assault Weapon and Manufacture or Import Short Barreled Rifle. The court convicted Chavez of these charges.
On his first day in office, President Donald J. Trump designated the Sinaloa Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The Sinaloa Cartel targeted and viciously murdered U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Nicholas Quets, and has kidnapped, tortured and killed many other Americans. The Sinaloa Cartel has also played a major role in the trafficking of fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexico border. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow vicious cartels to operate on American soil.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE JUNE 29, 2025... In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul got in ten rounds of good work but was never seriously challenged by Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul won nearly every round but failed to hurt Chavez, a former champion from 2011-2012 who hasn't taken boxing seriously for years. Paul tired over the last two rounds, allowing Chavez to save some face after a generally dismal performance. Still, Paul won a deserved lopsided unanimous decision by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is likely to enter the world rankings of at least one of the major sanctioning bodies. Compubox credited Paul with a 141-60 edge in punches landed. For the first three rounds, Chavez's offense was virtually nonexistent. With the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. screamimng from ringside in frustration, his son finally landed a punch just before the end of round three. Things heated up a bit in the fourth as Chavez began to come forward a little more, but Paul still won the round. Chavez simply would not let his hands go with any regularity, and the couple of times that he did when he was in punching range, Paul wisely tied Chavez up.The packed, pro-Mexican crowd tried to will Chavez forward over the second half of the fight, but Chavez lacked the energy to throw extended combinations. It should be remembered that Chavez is 39 years old and as a former middleweight champion now fighting at cruiserweight, he is 40 pounds over his best weight. The momentum turned in round nine as Paul tired and Chavez landed several good blows. The tenth round featured the best exchanges of the contest, as a tired Paul fought back against a surging, suddenly aggressive Chavez. The late rally was not enough to overcome the first eight rounds.
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Report: Benavidez to face Yarde in November |
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Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, posted on Twitter that David Benavidez (pictured) will defend his WBC light heavyweight world title against Great Britain's Anthony Yarde as he makes his Riyadh Season debut in November. At 30-0, Benavidez is a three-time champion who lost his prior two titles outside the ring. His last fight was a career-best performance, a thrilling defeat of David Morrell in February. Yarde is 27-3 and has failed in title bids against Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev. In Yarde's last fight, he avenged his only other loss, defeating Lyndon Arthur by decision in April.
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Report: Benavidez to face Yarde in November
Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, posted on Twitter that David Benavidez (pictured) will defend his WBC light heavyweight world title against Great Britain's Anthony Yarde as he makes his Riyadh Season debut in November. At 30-0, Benavidez is a three-time champion who lost his prior two titles outside the ring. His last fight was a career-best performance, a thrilling defeat of David Morrell in February. Yarde is 27-3 and has failed in title bids against Sergey Kovalev and Artur Beterbiev. In Yarde's last fight, he avenged his only other loss, defeating Lyndon Arthur by decision in April.
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Watch: Dickens upsets Batyrgaziev to claim interim title |
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James Dickens TKO4 Albert Batyrgaziev... In an upset, British veteran James “Jazza” Dickens (36-5, 15 KOs) handed 2021 Olympic champion Albert Batyrgaziev (14-1 including IBA pro fights) his first professional loss with a stunning knockout victory to claim the WBA interim junior lightweight world title. The bout headlined Wednesday night’s IBA card at the Rixos Tersane in Istanbul. The finish was as dramatic as it was decisive. Dickens, age 34 and a former IBO featherweight titleholder, timed a perfect combination in the fourth round that left Russian Batyrgaziev unable to respond, forcing his corner to throw in the towel after two knockdowns. Up until that moment, the fight had been tightly contested. Batyrgaziev showcased his usual precision and range control, while Dickens pressed forward, banking on pressure and attrition. But in the fourth, the Liverpool native found the moment he was looking for. A sharp left hook followed by a straight right hand that sent Batyrgaziev to the canvas for the first time in his professional career.
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Watch: Dickens upsets Batyrgaziev to claim interim title
James Dickens TKO4 Albert Batyrgaziev... In an upset, British veteran James “Jazza” Dickens (36-5, 15 KOs) handed 2021 Olympic champion Albert Batyrgaziev (14-1 including IBA pro fights) his first professional loss with a stunning knockout victory to claim the WBA interim junior lightweight world title. The bout headlined Wednesday night’s IBA card at the Rixos Tersane in Istanbul. The finish was as dramatic as it was decisive. Dickens, age 34 and a former IBO featherweight titleholder, timed a perfect combination in the fourth round that left Russian Batyrgaziev unable to respond, forcing his corner to throw in the towel after two knockdowns. Up until that moment, the fight had been tightly contested. Batyrgaziev showcased his usual precision and range control, while Dickens pressed forward, banking on pressure and attrition. But in the fourth, the Liverpool native found the moment he was looking for. A sharp left hook followed by a straight right hand that sent Batyrgaziev to the canvas for the first time in his professional career.
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Gary Russell coming back as a lightweight |
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A three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup will see the return of two former champions and a battle of super bantamweight contenders leading up to a pay-per-view event headlined by Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his WBC welterweight title against Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao on Saturday, July 19th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Topping the streaming presentation is the return of former longtime featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr. as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a ten-round lightweight showdown. The action also includes undefeated super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso dueling Japan's Kyonosuke Kameda in a ten-round affair, plus Filipino power-puncher and former champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo battling Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in a ten-round super featherweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
These fights lead into a pay-per-view broadcast that, besides Barrios-Pacquiao, features WBC 1544-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora aagainst former champion Tim Tszyu in a rmeatch of 2024’s bloodiest fight, “Pitbull” Cruz meeting fwllow Mexican Angel Fierro for a second time in a twelve-round 140-pound duel, while former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a ten-round featherweight showdown. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
Returning to action for the first time since his nearly seven-year title run ended in a fight where he injured his shoulder, Russell will look to show off the skills that made him boxing’s then longest reigning male champion as he makes his lightweight debut in a 10-round fight against veteran Hugo Castañeda. Russell (31-2, 18 KOs) has stayed close to the sport since last fighting, keeping his late father Gary Sr.’s legacy going by training his younger brothers, WBA 140-pound champ Gary Antuanne and contender Gary Antonio. The Capitol Heights, Md., native first captured the WBC featherweight championship in March 2015 by stopping former multiple division champion Jhonny Gonzalez, and held it until losing a majority decision to Magsayo in January 2022. His run as champion included a stoppage of former world champion Kiko Martinez, and a dominant unanimous decision over former world champion Joseph Diaz Jr., both of whom went on to win championships after losing to Russell.
“I’m so glad to be back on this great event on July 19th in Las Vegas,” said Russell. “I’m ready to shake off the dust and entertain by doing what I love. Make sure you tune in to see me do my thing.”
Originally from Reynoso, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Castañeda (15-2-1, 11 KOs) has ended each of his last three victories by knockout, including an upset over the previously unbeaten Felix Garcia in April 2024. Most recently, Castañeda came up short in an April clash against undefeated Demler Zamora. Now fighting out of Alamo, Texas, the 23-year-old will step into the ring stateside for the sixth time as a professional, where he’s amassed a 3-2 record. Castañeda turned pro in 2021, racking up wins in his first 12 bouts.
"This is a huge opportunity for me and I'm coming to take full advantage of it," said Castañeda. "I know that I'm facing a great fighter who's accomplished a lot, but I have everything it takes to get the victory. I'm training hard to be at my best and show everyone what I can do on July 19th."
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Gary Russell coming back as a lightweight
A three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup will see the return of two former champions and a battle of super bantamweight contenders leading up to a pay-per-view event headlined by Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his WBC welterweight title against Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao on Saturday, July 19th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Topping the streaming presentation is the return of former longtime featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr. as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a ten-round lightweight showdown. The action also includes undefeated super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso dueling Japan's Kyonosuke Kameda in a ten-round affair, plus Filipino power-puncher and former champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo battling Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in a ten-round super featherweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
These fights lead into a pay-per-view broadcast that, besides Barrios-Pacquiao, features WBC 1544-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora aagainst former champion Tim Tszyu in a rmeatch of 2024’s bloodiest fight, “Pitbull” Cruz meeting fwllow Mexican Angel Fierro for a second time in a twelve-round 140-pound duel, while former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a ten-round featherweight showdown. In addition to being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
Returning to action for the first time since his nearly seven-year title run ended in a fight where he injured his shoulder, Russell will look to show off the skills that made him boxing’s then longest reigning male champion as he makes his lightweight debut in a 10-round fight against veteran Hugo Castañeda. Russell (31-2, 18 KOs) has stayed close to the sport since last fighting, keeping his late father Gary Sr.’s legacy going by training his younger brothers, WBA 140-pound champ Gary Antuanne and contender Gary Antonio. The Capitol Heights, Md., native first captured the WBC featherweight championship in March 2015 by stopping former multiple division champion Jhonny Gonzalez, and held it until losing a majority decision to Magsayo in January 2022. His run as champion included a stoppage of former world champion Kiko Martinez, and a dominant unanimous decision over former world champion Joseph Diaz Jr., both of whom went on to win championships after losing to Russell.
“I’m so glad to be back on this great event on July 19th in Las Vegas,” said Russell. “I’m ready to shake off the dust and entertain by doing what I love. Make sure you tune in to see me do my thing.”
Originally from Reynoso, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Castañeda (15-2-1, 11 KOs) has ended each of his last three victories by knockout, including an upset over the previously unbeaten Felix Garcia in April 2024. Most recently, Castañeda came up short in an April clash against undefeated Demler Zamora. Now fighting out of Alamo, Texas, the 23-year-old will step into the ring stateside for the sixth time as a professional, where he’s amassed a 3-2 record. Castañeda turned pro in 2021, racking up wins in his first 12 bouts.
"This is a huge opportunity for me and I'm coming to take full advantage of it," said Castañeda. "I know that I'm facing a great fighter who's accomplished a lot, but I have everything it takes to get the victory. I'm training hard to be at my best and show everyone what I can do on July 19th."
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Rafferty to risk British title vs. Chamberlain |
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A British title fight is coming to the Altrincham Ice Dome on Saturday August 23rd, live on DAZN worldwide as domestic junior welterweight champion Jack Rafferty will defend against Mark Chamberlain. Also the Comonwealth champion, Rafferty (26-0, 17 KOs) secured his British champion status with a stoppage victory over Henry Turner in October of last year in Liverpool, before making a successful defense against Reece McMillan. He's since defended the Commonwealth crown against Cory O’Regan in Manchester, wining both via stoppage. Chamberlain (17-1, 12 KOs) was on the cusp of challenging for a lightweight title before he suffered a defeat to Josh Padley at Wembley Stadium last September. He returned to winning ways at junior welterweight with a decision victory over Miguel Angel Scaringi in April.
“Jack Rafferty going up against Mark Chamberlain is an absolute humdinger of a fight,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Two all-action big punchers going at it for the British title with all the ingredients there for a thriller. It is a fight I am delighted to get done for the fans and I know it will deliver the goods. We are at a new venue for us in Altrincham and Jack’s army of fans will be sure to pack the place out. The winner will be in prime position to crack on to world level contention.”
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Rafferty to risk British title vs. Chamberlain
A British title fight is coming to the Altrincham Ice Dome on Saturday August 23rd, live on DAZN worldwide as domestic junior welterweight champion Jack Rafferty will defend against Mark Chamberlain. Also the Comonwealth champion, Rafferty (26-0, 17 KOs) secured his British champion status with a stoppage victory over Henry Turner in October of last year in Liverpool, before making a successful defense against Reece McMillan. He's since defended the Commonwealth crown against Cory O’Regan in Manchester, wining both via stoppage. Chamberlain (17-1, 12 KOs) was on the cusp of challenging for a lightweight title before he suffered a defeat to Josh Padley at Wembley Stadium last September. He returned to winning ways at junior welterweight with a decision victory over Miguel Angel Scaringi in April.
“Jack Rafferty going up against Mark Chamberlain is an absolute humdinger of a fight,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Two all-action big punchers going at it for the British title with all the ingredients there for a thriller. It is a fight I am delighted to get done for the fans and I know it will deliver the goods. We are at a new venue for us in Altrincham and Jack’s army of fans will be sure to pack the place out. The winner will be in prime position to crack on to world level contention.”
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Undefeated bantamweights to clash in Texas |
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On July 19th at The Star in Frisco, Texas, Mexico's Arturo Cardenas a/k/a Arturo Popoca will face Dominique Crowder of the United States in a bantamweight contest. The Mexican has already had success at super bantamweight with a run of three quality wins in 2024. This will be a battle of unbeatens as Cardenas has a record of 16-0-1 with 9 KOs while Crowder has a record of 18 wins and 0 losses with 11 wins by KO.
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Undefeated bantamweights to clash in Texas
On July 19th at The Star in Frisco, Texas, Mexico's Arturo Cardenas a/k/a Arturo Popoca will face Dominique Crowder of the United States in a bantamweight contest. The Mexican has already had success at super bantamweight with a run of three quality wins in 2024. This will be a battle of unbeatens as Cardenas has a record of 16-0-1 with 9 KOs while Crowder has a record of 18 wins and 0 losses with 11 wins by KO.
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Teraji to defend flyweight titles this month |
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WBC/WBA flyweight champion Kenshiro “Amazing Boy” Teraji will return to the ring on July 30th to defend his titles against American Ricardo Sandoval. The bout will take place at Yokohama Buntai in Yokohama, Japan. Teraji has a record of 22-1, 14 KOs and is a two-division champion who enjoyed two reigns at junior flyweight during 2017-2024. Sandoval has earned this chance after stringing together important victories on the international stage. With a record of 23-2 with 16 KOs, the Californian is on a six-fight win streak that includes former 108-pound title holder Angel Acosta. This fight is organized by Teiken Promotions.
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Teraji to defend flyweight titles this month
WBC/WBA flyweight champion Kenshiro “Amazing Boy” Teraji will return to the ring on July 30th to defend his titles against American Ricardo Sandoval. The bout will take place at Yokohama Buntai in Yokohama, Japan. Teraji has a record of 22-1, 14 KOs and is a two-division champion who enjoyed two reigns at junior flyweight during 2017-2024. Sandoval has earned this chance after stringing together important victories on the international stage. With a record of 23-2 with 16 KOs, the Californian is on a six-fight win streak that includes former 108-pound title holder Angel Acosta. This fight is organized by Teiken Promotions.
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Angel Fierro training camp report |
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Mexican lightweight Angel “Tashiro” Fierro sent a direct message to his compatriot and rival Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz during a tense face-to-face at the Los Angeles press conference in June to announce their rematch, and has continued to express his ire toward Cruz as their July 19th showdown approached. The two Mexicans will do battle as part of a PBC pay-per-view event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. “When I say something to him, like I did at that press conference, I follow through,” said Fierro. “I promised I would show him that I’m elite and this fight will be more of the same. I have no respect for ‘Pitbull’ Cruz. He doesn’t intimidate me and he’s an ordinary fighter. He’s a human and he gets tired too. I stayed true to myself when I told him I’m coming for war.”
The biggest change for Fierro since losing the first showdown is the addition of famed trainer Robert Garcia, who has led his training camp and will do the same for his corner on July 19th. By joining forces with Garcia, Fierro believes he’s unlocked a better version of himself that he’ll display in the rematch. “It’s been a tough camp,” said Fierro. “I’ve never trained with this much intensity before. Robert Garcia and the whole team has been excellent. We’ve made changes to my sparring sessions and I believe we’re going to deliver a great result. I’ve gone through changes physically, mentally and nutritionally. It’s going to make me formidable. I’m in the best shape of my life and my diet is on point. I’m not worried about making weight and that’s how an elite fighter should come into a fight.”
The Tijuana-native’s first fight against Cruz was a tale of two halves, as Cruz controlled the early rounds before Fierro appeared to turn the tide, out landing his opponent 132 to 106 across the final five frames. While he believes he’ll be even better on July 19th, Fierro is confident that he proved his elite status in the first fight, even if Cruz doesn’t. “I’ve worked on myself and correcting the mistakes I made in the first fight that would have changed the outcome,” said Fierro. “Robert Garcia is very experienced and I watched the fight with him to work on what I need to do to win this time. I didn’t keep my hands up 100% of the time like I needed to. That was the main mistake at the time. ‘Pitbull’ underestimated me – and still does- but I already showed him that I’m not middling fighter. I proved I’m elite and now I’m working twice as hard.”
In addition to showing Cruz his level, Fierro believes that he took advantage of the big stage in February on the undercard of David Benavidez vs. David Morrell Jr. to show the Mexican people that he was a true contender. With that extra motivation, he’s promised to show that he will be the next big star to take off from the boxing-rich country.
“At the beginning of the fight, people looked at me like I was a nobody,” said Fierro. “But by the halfway point, I felt a shift, and people were already seeing me as a big-time fighter. I felt like Rocky in Russia! I proved that I’m not just a talker. I’m a true Mexican…We’re two Mexicans with pride on the line and looking to show who the next great Mexican boxing star will be. I’m fighting to bring honor to my country.”
Having already delivered a fight that’s garnering early Fight of the Year consideration, Fierro has promised to deliver even more action the second time around, and perhaps bring back memories of Fierro’s personal favorite all-Mexican rematch Marco Antonio Barrera vs. Erik Morales II.
“You’re going to see a different ‘Tashiro’ and it’s going to be an even better war than the first one,” said Fierro. “The fans will be on their feet from the very first round. I will beat ‘Pitbull’ – no matter what. He better prepare well and I think he will, because deep down he knows what he’s up against.”
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Angel Fierro training camp report
Mexican lightweight Angel “Tashiro” Fierro sent a direct message to his compatriot and rival Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz during a tense face-to-face at the Los Angeles press conference in June to announce their rematch, and has continued to express his ire toward Cruz as their July 19th showdown approached. The two Mexicans will do battle as part of a PBC pay-per-view event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. “When I say something to him, like I did at that press conference, I follow through,” said Fierro. “I promised I would show him that I’m elite and this fight will be more of the same. I have no respect for ‘Pitbull’ Cruz. He doesn’t intimidate me and he’s an ordinary fighter. He’s a human and he gets tired too. I stayed true to myself when I told him I’m coming for war.”
The biggest change for Fierro since losing the first showdown is the addition of famed trainer Robert Garcia, who has led his training camp and will do the same for his corner on July 19th. By joining forces with Garcia, Fierro believes he’s unlocked a better version of himself that he’ll display in the rematch. “It’s been a tough camp,” said Fierro. “I’ve never trained with this much intensity before. Robert Garcia and the whole team has been excellent. We’ve made changes to my sparring sessions and I believe we’re going to deliver a great result. I’ve gone through changes physically, mentally and nutritionally. It’s going to make me formidable. I’m in the best shape of my life and my diet is on point. I’m not worried about making weight and that’s how an elite fighter should come into a fight.”
The Tijuana-native’s first fight against Cruz was a tale of two halves, as Cruz controlled the early rounds before Fierro appeared to turn the tide, out landing his opponent 132 to 106 across the final five frames. While he believes he’ll be even better on July 19th, Fierro is confident that he proved his elite status in the first fight, even if Cruz doesn’t. “I’ve worked on myself and correcting the mistakes I made in the first fight that would have changed the outcome,” said Fierro. “Robert Garcia is very experienced and I watched the fight with him to work on what I need to do to win this time. I didn’t keep my hands up 100% of the time like I needed to. That was the main mistake at the time. ‘Pitbull’ underestimated me – and still does- but I already showed him that I’m not middling fighter. I proved I’m elite and now I’m working twice as hard.”
In addition to showing Cruz his level, Fierro believes that he took advantage of the big stage in February on the undercard of David Benavidez vs. David Morrell Jr. to show the Mexican people that he was a true contender. With that extra motivation, he’s promised to show that he will be the next big star to take off from the boxing-rich country.
“At the beginning of the fight, people looked at me like I was a nobody,” said Fierro. “But by the halfway point, I felt a shift, and people were already seeing me as a big-time fighter. I felt like Rocky in Russia! I proved that I’m not just a talker. I’m a true Mexican…We’re two Mexicans with pride on the line and looking to show who the next great Mexican boxing star will be. I’m fighting to bring honor to my country.”
Having already delivered a fight that’s garnering early Fight of the Year consideration, Fierro has promised to deliver even more action the second time around, and perhaps bring back memories of Fierro’s personal favorite all-Mexican rematch Marco Antonio Barrera vs. Erik Morales II.
“You’re going to see a different ‘Tashiro’ and it’s going to be an even better war than the first one,” said Fierro. “The fans will be on their feet from the very first round. I will beat ‘Pitbull’ – no matter what. He better prepare well and I think he will, because deep down he knows what he’s up against.”
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The Fight Life returns to ESPN next week |
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The ESPN Original Series, The Fight Life, returns for its second season on Monday, July 7th. New episodes will be available to watch on demand on ESPN+, beginning July 7th. After each episode’s debut, The Fight Life will also air across ESPN’s linear platforms (check local listings). Season two will chronicle a year in the world of Top Rank through the journey of six boxers: Keyshawn Davis, Mikaela Mayer, Jared Anderson, Jaime Munguia, Abdullah Mason and Emiliano Vargas. The series follows each fighter as they prepare for career-defining fights while navigating the pressures and immeasurable rewards that come with The Fight Life. The Fight Life is produced by ESPN in association with Words + Pictures and Top Rank.
Episode Descriptions
Episode 1 - Keyshawn Davis: Legacy Begins (July 7th): Undefeated lightweight Keyshawn Davis faces the most pivotal fight of his young career when he battles Gustavo Lemos. A victory will all but guarantee Davis a world title shot, but on the eve of the fight, the bout’s status is called into question.
Episode 2 - Mikaela Mayer: Road to Redemption (July 8th): After suffering defeats in her last two title fights, Mikaela Mayer faces what could be her final shot at a belt against reigning WBO welterweight champion Sandy Ryan. Tensions rise as personal feuds play out, and a pre-fight incident brings the drama to a boiling point. With her career clock ticking, Mayer must prove she still has what it takes.
Episode 3 - Jared Anderson: The Weight of Greatness (July 9th): Jared Anderson was once considered the next great American heavyweight and the heir to Tyson Fury’s throne. A series of driving arrests and a knockout loss have left his future in doubt. When Anderson finds himself at the bottom of a fight card, his lackluster performance leaves many wondering if he will ever fulfill his potential.
Episode 4 - Jaime Munguia: Tijuana Warrior (July 10th): Many experts considered Jaime Munguia to be Tijuana’s next great champion. However, the wear and tear of an already long career has left some wondering if the Mexican star’s best days are behind him. Munguia returns home for a stadium homecoming against massive underdog Bruno Surace intent on making a statement.
Episode 5 - Mason & Vargas: Next in Line (July 11th): 21-year-olds Emiliano Vargas and Abdullah Mason are on the precipice of stardom. Vargas, an unbeaten junior welterweight, fights to defend the Vargas family boxing legacy established by his world champion father, Fernando. Mason, a flashy lightweight from Cleveland, Ohio, hopes to become the next face of the sport.
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The Fight Life returns to ESPN next week
The ESPN Original Series, The Fight Life, returns for its second season on Monday, July 7th. New episodes will be available to watch on demand on ESPN+, beginning July 7th. After each episode’s debut, The Fight Life will also air across ESPN’s linear platforms (check local listings). Season two will chronicle a year in the world of Top Rank through the journey of six boxers: Keyshawn Davis, Mikaela Mayer, Jared Anderson, Jaime Munguia, Abdullah Mason and Emiliano Vargas. The series follows each fighter as they prepare for career-defining fights while navigating the pressures and immeasurable rewards that come with The Fight Life. The Fight Life is produced by ESPN in association with Words + Pictures and Top Rank.
Episode Descriptions
Episode 1 - Keyshawn Davis: Legacy Begins (July 7th): Undefeated lightweight Keyshawn Davis faces the most pivotal fight of his young career when he battles Gustavo Lemos. A victory will all but guarantee Davis a world title shot, but on the eve of the fight, the bout’s status is called into question.
Episode 2 - Mikaela Mayer: Road to Redemption (July 8th): After suffering defeats in her last two title fights, Mikaela Mayer faces what could be her final shot at a belt against reigning WBO welterweight champion Sandy Ryan. Tensions rise as personal feuds play out, and a pre-fight incident brings the drama to a boiling point. With her career clock ticking, Mayer must prove she still has what it takes.
Episode 3 - Jared Anderson: The Weight of Greatness (July 9th): Jared Anderson was once considered the next great American heavyweight and the heir to Tyson Fury’s throne. A series of driving arrests and a knockout loss have left his future in doubt. When Anderson finds himself at the bottom of a fight card, his lackluster performance leaves many wondering if he will ever fulfill his potential.
Episode 4 - Jaime Munguia: Tijuana Warrior (July 10th): Many experts considered Jaime Munguia to be Tijuana’s next great champion. However, the wear and tear of an already long career has left some wondering if the Mexican star’s best days are behind him. Munguia returns home for a stadium homecoming against massive underdog Bruno Surace intent on making a statement.
Episode 5 - Mason & Vargas: Next in Line (July 11th): 21-year-olds Emiliano Vargas and Abdullah Mason are on the precipice of stardom. Vargas, an unbeaten junior welterweight, fights to defend the Vargas family boxing legacy established by his world champion father, Fernando. Mason, a flashy lightweight from Cleveland, Ohio, hopes to become the next face of the sport.
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Matchroom unveils new logo |
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Matchroom Boxing has unveiled its new, remastered brand identity (pictured)that will propel the company into a new era. Spanning four decades, the world’s leading Boxing promotion has been at the forefront of the sport since it was established by Matchroom Sport President, Barry Hearn OBE. Since its inception, Matchroom Boxing has promoted some of the sport’s most iconic names – from British greats Frank Bruno, Lennox Lewis, Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank in the 1990s through to modern day heroes Anthony Joshua, Katie Taylor, and undisputed light heavyweight king Dmitry Bivol. Over the course of that time, Matchroom Boxing has forged a reputation as a powerhouse on the world stage playing a pivotal role in transforming Boxing into a mainstream spectacle, by developing world champions and producing some of the most memorable events in modern boxing history spanning the UK, USA, Mexico, Australia, Japan, and the Middle East, as part of its historic association with broadcast partners DAZN.
And today Chairman Eddie Hearn is thrilled to present a striking new identity to further accelerate the leading Boxing brand’s global growth and ignite the “I was there” moments for fans across the world as it gears towards its upcoming, unmissable event schedule. “Matchroom Boxing has been at the forefront of the most iconic nights in the modern history of the sport and this reimagined brand identity represents our move into a new frontier,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn.
“In what is becoming an ever increasingly competitive market, as all major brands must do, we have to move forward with the times to appeal to fresh audiences whilst enhancing our product for our current fanbase both with the commitment of delivering unmissable events, steered by our elite stable of world champions and world class fighters. “The future starts now. This represents our continued growth and determination to deliver the very best events, with the best fighters, across the world.”
Matchroom Boxing’s rebrand, developed in collaboration with award-winning data driven sports marketing agency Two Circles, draws inspiration in duality from a brand that is both rooted in tradition and ready for the future with bold design aimed at resonating with a digital-first audience.
George Foster, Managing Director, EMEA, at Two Circles, said: “Partnering with Matchroom Boxing was a natural alignment for us. With 12 years of expertise in understanding sports fans better than anyone, Two Circles was uniquely positioned to help bring Matchroom’s brand vision to life. “By taking a data-led approach, we first evaluated how boxing fans engage with them and how it feels to be in the Matchroom Boxing family, before co-creating a new vision and set of values for the future. This gave our Creative teams everything they needed to build a bold, dynamic and future-ready brand identity. We can’t wait to see how this new brand identity helps Matchroom Boxing amplify their impact in the sports world.”
The refreshed identity also reflects Matchroom Boxing’s commitment to community, excellence and ushering in the next generation of the sport’s stars – such as heavyweight Leo Atang, who joined boxing legends Frank Bruno and Anthony Joshua for a special Q&A.
And as the sport continues to reach new audiences across the world and cross cultural borders, Matchroom Boxing’s remastered brand marks a commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovation, fan engagement, and fight-night spectacle.
Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith said: “Matchroom Boxing isn’t just keeping up with the evolution of the sport – we’re leading it. Our remastered identity is a reflection of our core values, our future, and our promise to our fighters and fans to keep pushing the boundaries of what this incredible sport can be.”
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Matchroom unveils new logo
Matchroom Boxing has unveiled its new, remastered brand identity (pictured)that will propel the company into a new era. Spanning four decades, the world’s leading Boxing promotion has been at the forefront of the sport since it was established by Matchroom Sport President, Barry Hearn OBE. Since its inception, Matchroom Boxing has promoted some of the sport’s most iconic names – from British greats Frank Bruno, Lennox Lewis, Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank in the 1990s through to modern day heroes Anthony Joshua, Katie Taylor, and undisputed light heavyweight king Dmitry Bivol. Over the course of that time, Matchroom Boxing has forged a reputation as a powerhouse on the world stage playing a pivotal role in transforming Boxing into a mainstream spectacle, by developing world champions and producing some of the most memorable events in modern boxing history spanning the UK, USA, Mexico, Australia, Japan, and the Middle East, as part of its historic association with broadcast partners DAZN.
And today Chairman Eddie Hearn is thrilled to present a striking new identity to further accelerate the leading Boxing brand’s global growth and ignite the “I was there” moments for fans across the world as it gears towards its upcoming, unmissable event schedule. “Matchroom Boxing has been at the forefront of the most iconic nights in the modern history of the sport and this reimagined brand identity represents our move into a new frontier,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn.
“In what is becoming an ever increasingly competitive market, as all major brands must do, we have to move forward with the times to appeal to fresh audiences whilst enhancing our product for our current fanbase both with the commitment of delivering unmissable events, steered by our elite stable of world champions and world class fighters. “The future starts now. This represents our continued growth and determination to deliver the very best events, with the best fighters, across the world.”
Matchroom Boxing’s rebrand, developed in collaboration with award-winning data driven sports marketing agency Two Circles, draws inspiration in duality from a brand that is both rooted in tradition and ready for the future with bold design aimed at resonating with a digital-first audience.
George Foster, Managing Director, EMEA, at Two Circles, said: “Partnering with Matchroom Boxing was a natural alignment for us. With 12 years of expertise in understanding sports fans better than anyone, Two Circles was uniquely positioned to help bring Matchroom’s brand vision to life. “By taking a data-led approach, we first evaluated how boxing fans engage with them and how it feels to be in the Matchroom Boxing family, before co-creating a new vision and set of values for the future. This gave our Creative teams everything they needed to build a bold, dynamic and future-ready brand identity. We can’t wait to see how this new brand identity helps Matchroom Boxing amplify their impact in the sports world.”
The refreshed identity also reflects Matchroom Boxing’s commitment to community, excellence and ushering in the next generation of the sport’s stars – such as heavyweight Leo Atang, who joined boxing legends Frank Bruno and Anthony Joshua for a special Q&A.
And as the sport continues to reach new audiences across the world and cross cultural borders, Matchroom Boxing’s remastered brand marks a commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovation, fan engagement, and fight-night spectacle.
Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith said: “Matchroom Boxing isn’t just keeping up with the evolution of the sport – we’re leading it. Our remastered identity is a reflection of our core values, our future, and our promise to our fighters and fans to keep pushing the boundaries of what this incredible sport can be.”
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Watch: big KO win for NJ amateur Malachi Georges |
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Heavyweight Malachi Georges got a huge win on Monday at the World Boxing Cup tournament in Astana, Kazakhstan 2025. Georges landed a two-punch combination that knocked out Abbes Mouhiidine of Italy in round one. This was a big win, as Mouhididine was a silver medal winner at the 2021 world amateur championship. Georges, from New Jersey, is coming off a silver medal performance at the World Boxing Challenge Grand Prix at Usti Nad Labem (Czech Republic). Competing in the 203-pound category, he now needs only one more win to earn a bronze medal and three for his first international gold medal.
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Watch: big KO win for NJ amateur Malachi Georges
Heavyweight Malachi Georges got a huge win on Monday at the World Boxing Cup tournament in Astana, Kazakhstan 2025. Georges landed a two-punch combination that knocked out Abbes Mouhiidine of Italy in round one. This was a big win, as Mouhididine was a silver medal winner at the 2021 world amateur championship. Georges, from New Jersey, is coming off a silver medal performance at the World Boxing Challenge Grand Prix at Usti Nad Labem (Czech Republic). Competing in the 203-pound category, he now needs only one more win to earn a bronze medal and three for his first international gold medal.
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Boxers continue to debate Jake Paul |
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One day after Vergil Ortiz criticized Jake Paul (pictured) for his "circus fight," boxer / social media star Ryan Garcia came to Paul's defense. Here is what Garcia tweeted: "You can’t say Jake’s fights are rigged. It’s getting ridiculous. He’s just winning. May not be against the people you want or are qualified to give him a challenge but it’s just because he’s popular. He has eleven pro fights. He’s on a similar path as most pros."
Vergil Ortiz (pictured), holder of the WBC interim junior middleweight title tweeted the following in the wake of Jake Paul's victory over a very unaggressive Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr.: "Jake Paul is scamming the entire world with his circus fights selling them as real fights but the entire world continues to eat it all up and then have the nerve to be disappointed because the circus fights they pay to watch aren’t real fights. He is single handedly destroying the sport and everyone else is enabling it. You guys are going to continue covering and watching the circuses hoping for the umpeenth time that this circus will be real. What is it called again when you keep doing the same thing expecting different results? You have to applaud Jake Paul for keeping up the charade this long and for having everyone else still believe it."
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Boxers continue to debate Jake Paul
One day after Vergil Ortiz criticized Jake Paul (pictured) for his "circus fight," boxer / social media star Ryan Garcia came to Paul's defense. Here is what Garcia tweeted: "You can’t say Jake’s fights are rigged. It’s getting ridiculous. He’s just winning. May not be against the people you want or are qualified to give him a challenge but it’s just because he’s popular. He has eleven pro fights. He’s on a similar path as most pros."
Vergil Ortiz (pictured), holder of the WBC interim junior middleweight title tweeted the following in the wake of Jake Paul's victory over a very unaggressive Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr.: "Jake Paul is scamming the entire world with his circus fights selling them as real fights but the entire world continues to eat it all up and then have the nerve to be disappointed because the circus fights they pay to watch aren’t real fights. He is single handedly destroying the sport and everyone else is enabling it. You guys are going to continue covering and watching the circuses hoping for the umpeenth time that this circus will be real. What is it called again when you keep doing the same thing expecting different results? You have to applaud Jake Paul for keeping up the charade this long and for having everyone else still believe it."
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Atlantic City show announced for July 25th |
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Boxing Insider delivers a summer night of boxing at the Tropicana in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Friday, July 25th at 7 PM, showcasing a junior flyweight bout between Andy Dominguez and Byron Rojas, and a heavyweight fight bwtween Roney Hines and Devin Rodriguez. The show will streamed live on DAZN. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster. The Bronx-born, Las Vegas-trained Dominguez (12-1, 6 KOs) takes on Rojas (24-4-3, 12 KOs). Domingues is coming off a victory against Angel Geovanny Meza Morales in December 2024. In the heavyweight bout, Hines (14-0-1, 8 KOs), who stands 6’6” with an 80-inch reach, meets Vargas, a former Olympian in an eight-round bout presented in association with DiBella Entertainment. “We’re thrilled to return to Tropicana Atlantic City, the best venue in town for boxing, slots, and restaurants, with a stacked summer fight night down the shore, featuring Andy Dominguez vs. Byron Rojas andd some of my favorites including Jacob Solis, Bruce Seldon, and Daiyaan Butt,” said Larry Goldberg, Boxing Insider Promoter.
In a third bout, Julio Sanchez III (1-1) of Pleasantville, New Jersey faces veteran Alexander Stone (1-5-1). Sanchez turned pro in March.
“We’re thrilled to return to Tropicana Atlantic City, the best venue in town for boxing, slots, and restaurants, with a stacked summer fight night down the shore, featuring Andy Dominguez vs. Byron Rojas for a WBC title and some of my favorites including Jacob Solis, Bruce Seldon, and Daiyaan Butt” said Larry Goldberg, Boxing Insider Promoter.
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Atlantic City show announced for July 25th
Boxing Insider delivers a summer night of boxing at the Tropicana in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Friday, July 25th at 7 PM, showcasing a junior flyweight bout between Andy Dominguez and Byron Rojas, and a heavyweight fight bwtween Roney Hines and Devin Rodriguez. The show will streamed live on DAZN. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster. The Bronx-born, Las Vegas-trained Dominguez (12-1, 6 KOs) takes on Rojas (24-4-3, 12 KOs). Domingues is coming off a victory against Angel Geovanny Meza Morales in December 2024. In the heavyweight bout, Hines (14-0-1, 8 KOs), who stands 6’6” with an 80-inch reach, meets Vargas, a former Olympian in an eight-round bout presented in association with DiBella Entertainment. “We’re thrilled to return to Tropicana Atlantic City, the best venue in town for boxing, slots, and restaurants, with a stacked summer fight night down the shore, featuring Andy Dominguez vs. Byron Rojas andd some of my favorites including Jacob Solis, Bruce Seldon, and Daiyaan Butt,” said Larry Goldberg, Boxing Insider Promoter.
In a third bout, Julio Sanchez III (1-1) of Pleasantville, New Jersey faces veteran Alexander Stone (1-5-1). Sanchez turned pro in March.
“We’re thrilled to return to Tropicana Atlantic City, the best venue in town for boxing, slots, and restaurants, with a stacked summer fight night down the shore, featuring Andy Dominguez vs. Byron Rojas for a WBC title and some of my favorites including Jacob Solis, Bruce Seldon, and Daiyaan Butt” said Larry Goldberg, Boxing Insider Promoter.
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Tevin Farmer keeps it real after loss |
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Former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer gave his thoughts on getting stopped in the first round by up-and-coming Floyd "Kid Austin" Schofield, Jr. on Saturday. Here is what Farmer posted on Facebook: "Boxing is a brutal sport, anything can happen on any given night. That’s the reality of this game, and that’s why it’s called boxing. I felt the referee stepped in way too early. As a champion and an elite fighter, I deserved the chance to fight through it, to show what I had. But it is what it is. I’m healthy, I’m standing tall, and I’ll always keep it real. The odds have always been stacked against me. I’ve never had a clear path. But no one man is bigger than the sport. I knew what I was up against, the politics, the setups. I’ve seen it all. The ref made his decision. But if it had to be anybody across from me that night, I’m glad it was Kid Austin. [He's] a talented young Man and a great kid. I got nothing but respect. At the end of the day, I already won. I won at life.
I’m a stand-up man who overachieved when nobody expected me to. I’m Tevin Farmer and I’ll be remembered, regardless. Love you all."
On Saturday, Schofield got a career-best win in Anaheim, California, destroying former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer in the first round of their lightweight contest. Schofield knocked down Farmer twice and was on the verge of the third knockdown when the referee intervened to save Farmer from further punishment. Schofield shed some tears afterwards. Just 22 years old, Schofield has been tormented on social media for pulling out of a world title shot after initially agreeing to challenge Shakur Stevenson for the WBA title. Schofield also said he was good friends with Farmer. Schofield is now 19-0 and deserves to zoom up the lightweight rankings after looking not-so-great in his last fight, a decision win over Rene Tellez Giron. Farmer (33-9-1) has now lost four in a row, but the last two were very competitive twelve-round fights vs. WBC interim titlist William Zepeda, with Farmer narrowly losing both on the scorecards.
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Tevin Farmer keeps it real after loss
Former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer gave his thoughts on getting stopped in the first round by up-and-coming Floyd "Kid Austin" Schofield, Jr. on Saturday. Here is what Farmer posted on Facebook: "Boxing is a brutal sport, anything can happen on any given night. That’s the reality of this game, and that’s why it’s called boxing. I felt the referee stepped in way too early. As a champion and an elite fighter, I deserved the chance to fight through it, to show what I had. But it is what it is. I’m healthy, I’m standing tall, and I’ll always keep it real. The odds have always been stacked against me. I’ve never had a clear path. But no one man is bigger than the sport. I knew what I was up against, the politics, the setups. I’ve seen it all. The ref made his decision. But if it had to be anybody across from me that night, I’m glad it was Kid Austin. [He's] a talented young Man and a great kid. I got nothing but respect. At the end of the day, I already won. I won at life.
I’m a stand-up man who overachieved when nobody expected me to. I’m Tevin Farmer and I’ll be remembered, regardless. Love you all."
On Saturday, Schofield got a career-best win in Anaheim, California, destroying former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer in the first round of their lightweight contest. Schofield knocked down Farmer twice and was on the verge of the third knockdown when the referee intervened to save Farmer from further punishment. Schofield shed some tears afterwards. Just 22 years old, Schofield has been tormented on social media for pulling out of a world title shot after initially agreeing to challenge Shakur Stevenson for the WBA title. Schofield also said he was good friends with Farmer. Schofield is now 19-0 and deserves to zoom up the lightweight rankings after looking not-so-great in his last fight, a decision win over Rene Tellez Giron. Farmer (33-9-1) has now lost four in a row, but the last two were very competitive twelve-round fights vs. WBC interim titlist William Zepeda, with Farmer narrowly losing both on the scorecards.
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Poland's Cieslak stops Pascal for WBC interim title |
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Michal Cieslak TKO4 Jean Pascal. ... Poland's Michal Cieslak was crowned WBC interim cruiserweight champion with a resounding victory over former world light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal. Cieslak showed power, precision, and determination from the outset of the fight. At the end of the second round, Cieslak landed a combination that sent Pascal to the canvas for the first time. In the third round, the European’s blows to the face began to break down the Haitian, who fell twice more after a solid hooks to the face. Cieslak’s superiority was evident, and Pascal’s corner, seeking to protect their fighter, stopped the fight in the fourth round. With this victory, Cieslak takes a significant step forward in his career and positions himself as a real threat in the cruiserweight division. The interim belt puts Cieslak in line for a fight against WBC champion Badou Jack [but it seems doubtful the WBC will enforce that fight].
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 4, 2025: Timing is critical in boxing, in and out of the ring, and hard-luck Canadian cruiserweight contender Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1-1, 19 KOs) has been on the untimely side of issues the past few years. Rozicki reachedthe WBC #1 mandatory challenger position the past two years only to have two world title fights fall out, first against then-WBC champion Noel Mikaelyan (who was named champion in recess) and then against Badou “The Ripper” Jack, who replaced Mikaelian as WBC champion. The third time was supposed to be the charm for Rozicki, who was set to challenge Jack on May 3rd in his first world title fight. However, Rozicki suffered a torn bicep during training camp that required surgery, forcing him to withdraw from the title fight only four weeks out. Mikaelyan replaced Rozicki in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, losing a disputed majority decision to Jack.
Rozicki and his promoter, Dan Otter (Three Lions Promotions), are preparing to send the WBC a medical certificate and injury update that will allow the WBC to determine Rozicki's title status (see below). “My arm feels great,” Rozicki said, “I would get in the ring tomorrow, but the doctors have advised that I wait a couple more months. I have waited for more than two years for this belt. I am focused more than ever. It’s only a matter of time.”
“Ryan is already back in the gym, and he will be ready to fight before the end of this September,” Otter added. “He wants that green belt (WBC) and we are confident that he will win it against whoever it is.”
JUNE 3, 2025: The WBC is sorting out its convoluted cruiserweight title situation. The sanctioning body announced that its Board of Governors has issued the following ruling: First, it has granted the appeal presented by Don King Productions and is ordering a direct rematch between WBC champion Badou Jack and former champion Noel Mikaelyan. The free negotiations has commenced and if there is no agreement a purse bid will take place on July 1st. Second, former world light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal will fight Michal Cieslak for the interim title on June 28th. Third, the winner of Pascal vs. Cieslak must fight Yamil Peralta next. Fourth, the WBC has ordered a medical update on the condition of Ryan Rozicki injury to evaluate his status.
In May, Jack retained his title against Mikaelian in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In doing so, Jack, who lives in the Middle East, seemingly got some favorable treatment from the judges. He was awarded a majority decision in what was a very close bout that leaned towards Mikaelian. The official scores were 114-114 and 115-113 (twice) for Jack. Compubox's Punchtats showed Mikaeljan threw 670 punches to Jack's 369, and outlanded Jack, 153 punches to 122. Each fighter entered the bout with some disadvantages. Mikaelian (27-3) stepped in as a somewhat late replacement, getting about three weeks notice to replace the injured Rozicki.
Jack (29-3-3) is 41 years old and hadn't fought in two years, since he captured the crown on February 26, 2023. He was demoted to champion-in-recess, but then had his championship status revived when Mikaelian was demoted from champion to champion in recess due to promotional issues with Don King.
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Poland's Cieslak stops Pascal for WBC interim title
Michal Cieslak TKO4 Jean Pascal. ... Poland's Michal Cieslak was crowned WBC interim cruiserweight champion with a resounding victory over former world light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal. Cieslak showed power, precision, and determination from the outset of the fight. At the end of the second round, Cieslak landed a combination that sent Pascal to the canvas for the first time. In the third round, the European’s blows to the face began to break down the Haitian, who fell twice more after a solid hooks to the face. Cieslak’s superiority was evident, and Pascal’s corner, seeking to protect their fighter, stopped the fight in the fourth round. With this victory, Cieslak takes a significant step forward in his career and positions himself as a real threat in the cruiserweight division. The interim belt puts Cieslak in line for a fight against WBC champion Badou Jack [but it seems doubtful the WBC will enforce that fight].
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 4, 2025: Timing is critical in boxing, in and out of the ring, and hard-luck Canadian cruiserweight contender Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1-1, 19 KOs) has been on the untimely side of issues the past few years. Rozicki reachedthe WBC #1 mandatory challenger position the past two years only to have two world title fights fall out, first against then-WBC champion Noel Mikaelyan (who was named champion in recess) and then against Badou “The Ripper” Jack, who replaced Mikaelian as WBC champion. The third time was supposed to be the charm for Rozicki, who was set to challenge Jack on May 3rd in his first world title fight. However, Rozicki suffered a torn bicep during training camp that required surgery, forcing him to withdraw from the title fight only four weeks out. Mikaelyan replaced Rozicki in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, losing a disputed majority decision to Jack.
Rozicki and his promoter, Dan Otter (Three Lions Promotions), are preparing to send the WBC a medical certificate and injury update that will allow the WBC to determine Rozicki's title status (see below). “My arm feels great,” Rozicki said, “I would get in the ring tomorrow, but the doctors have advised that I wait a couple more months. I have waited for more than two years for this belt. I am focused more than ever. It’s only a matter of time.”
“Ryan is already back in the gym, and he will be ready to fight before the end of this September,” Otter added. “He wants that green belt (WBC) and we are confident that he will win it against whoever it is.”
JUNE 3, 2025: The WBC is sorting out its convoluted cruiserweight title situation. The sanctioning body announced that its Board of Governors has issued the following ruling: First, it has granted the appeal presented by Don King Productions and is ordering a direct rematch between WBC champion Badou Jack and former champion Noel Mikaelyan. The free negotiations has commenced and if there is no agreement a purse bid will take place on July 1st. Second, former world light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal will fight Michal Cieslak for the interim title on June 28th. Third, the winner of Pascal vs. Cieslak must fight Yamil Peralta next. Fourth, the WBC has ordered a medical update on the condition of Ryan Rozicki injury to evaluate his status.
In May, Jack retained his title against Mikaelian in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In doing so, Jack, who lives in the Middle East, seemingly got some favorable treatment from the judges. He was awarded a majority decision in what was a very close bout that leaned towards Mikaelian. The official scores were 114-114 and 115-113 (twice) for Jack. Compubox's Punchtats showed Mikaeljan threw 670 punches to Jack's 369, and outlanded Jack, 153 punches to 122. Each fighter entered the bout with some disadvantages. Mikaelian (27-3) stepped in as a somewhat late replacement, getting about three weeks notice to replace the injured Rozicki.
Jack (29-3-3) is 41 years old and hadn't fought in two years, since he captured the crown on February 26, 2023. He was demoted to champion-in-recess, but then had his championship status revived when Mikaelian was demoted from champion to champion in recess due to promotional issues with Don King.
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Mario Barrios training camp report |
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WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios held a media workout in Las Vegas on Saturday as he prepares for a challenge from International Boxing Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao on a pay-per-view show on Prime Video, set for Saturday, July 19th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs) stamped his place among the welterweight elite in September 2023 as he dropped former champion Yordenis Ugas twice to capture the WBC interim belt by unanimous decision. Barrios followed that up by sending Fabian Maidana to the canvas as well on his way to another dominant decision victory, and was elevated to WBC champion following the bout. His first defense of the title featured Barrios going toe-to-toe with Abel Ramos in one of 2024’s best fights in action that saw both men score knockdowns and that ultimately ended in a split-draw and Barrios retaining the belt.
Here is what Barrios, along with his trainer Bob Santos, had to say Saturday from Pound 4 Pound Gym in Las Vegas:
MARIO BARRIOS
“It’s all smiles between us right now, but when that bell rings, we’re going in there with bad intentions. He’s trying to take my title and I have to do whatever it takes to make sure he doesn’t.
“This has been a tremendous camp. It’s very rare to have a camp this smooth. The sparring has been perfect and I’m very happy with how everything has gone. The hard work has already been put in.
“I’m looking to go out there and showcase my skill and use any advantage I have to get my hand raised at the end of the night.
“During training camp I haven’t really been working with the mentality that I’m facing a legend. At the end of the day, he’s another man who’s trying to fight for my title. I respect what he’s done in the sport and the person he is, but come fight night, that respect won’t be there.
“When the fight was first brought to me I wasn’t sure whether to take it as respect or disrespect, because he wanted me. But regardless, I’m the champion for a reason and I’m gonna show why I’m holding the WBC belt.
“Manny’s movement and hand speed is looking on point right now. That’s what has always made him a great fighter. He doesn’t have an easy style to replicate and that can make sparring tricky. That’s one of the reasons he’s been so successful and why he’s in the position that he is.
“I have a great team behind me. I’ve been fortunate to be with some of the best in the business from the beginning. I’ve just stayed focused and stayed in the gym and that’s why I’ve gotten these opportunities. I give it 100% every time.
“I’ve always trained for every fight like it’s a world title fight, so this is no different. I know who I’m going against and I know the threat he is inside of the ring. But with my team and everything we’re working on in the gym, I just have to go out and execute and we’ll be victorious.
“I’ll definitely be showcasing my indigenous roots for my walkout. That’s something I love to feel as I’m entering the ring. We’ve got something special planned.
“Having my sister Selina in my camp has been really important. We started this boxing journey together when I was six and she was eight. We’ve always been in each other’s corner since the very beginning. Nobody knows me better in and out of the ring than her.”
BOB SANTOS, Barrios’ Trainer
“It’s an honor for me to work with Mario Barrios. From day one, I knew that Barrios was Pitbull. He was reserved and quiet, but you could see in his pro debut that we had something on our hands here.
“This camp has been fantastic. Everyone has been doing a great job with their piece. In the end, Mario has put in the work and he will be victorious on July 19. Take it to the bank.
“You don’t become a world champion in two weight classes by accident. Not too many people have done that and Mario deserves his credit.
“Manny Pacquiao is an icon. There’s nobody more worthy of this opportunity. Look at what he’s given to the sport. Also, inactivity can work in different ways. With an older guy, that time off can be something that helps him. It’s gonna be a great fight for everyone to watch, but ‘El Azteca’ will come out with the win.”
“It’s an honor for me to work with Mario Barrios. From day one, I knew that Barrios was Pitbull. He was reserved and quiet, but you could see in his pro debut that we had something on our hands here.
“This camp has been fantastic. Everyone has been doing a great job with their piece. In the end, Mario has put in the work and he will be victorious on July 19. Take it to the bank.
“You don’t become a world champion in two weight classes by accident. Not too many people have done that and Mario deserves his credit.
“Manny Pacquiao is an icon. There’s nobody more worthy of this opportunity. Look at what he’s given to the sport. Also, inactivity can work in different ways. With an older guy, that time off can be something that helps him. It’s gonna be a great fight for everyone to watch, but ‘El Azteca’ will come out with the win.”
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Mario Barrios training camp report
WBC welterweight champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios held a media workout in Las Vegas on Saturday as he prepares for a challenge from International Boxing Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao on a pay-per-view show on Prime Video, set for Saturday, July 19th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs) stamped his place among the welterweight elite in September 2023 as he dropped former champion Yordenis Ugas twice to capture the WBC interim belt by unanimous decision. Barrios followed that up by sending Fabian Maidana to the canvas as well on his way to another dominant decision victory, and was elevated to WBC champion following the bout. His first defense of the title featured Barrios going toe-to-toe with Abel Ramos in one of 2024’s best fights in action that saw both men score knockdowns and that ultimately ended in a split-draw and Barrios retaining the belt.
Here is what Barrios, along with his trainer Bob Santos, had to say Saturday from Pound 4 Pound Gym in Las Vegas:
MARIO BARRIOS
“It’s all smiles between us right now, but when that bell rings, we’re going in there with bad intentions. He’s trying to take my title and I have to do whatever it takes to make sure he doesn’t.
“This has been a tremendous camp. It’s very rare to have a camp this smooth. The sparring has been perfect and I’m very happy with how everything has gone. The hard work has already been put in.
“I’m looking to go out there and showcase my skill and use any advantage I have to get my hand raised at the end of the night.
“During training camp I haven’t really been working with the mentality that I’m facing a legend. At the end of the day, he’s another man who’s trying to fight for my title. I respect what he’s done in the sport and the person he is, but come fight night, that respect won’t be there.
“When the fight was first brought to me I wasn’t sure whether to take it as respect or disrespect, because he wanted me. But regardless, I’m the champion for a reason and I’m gonna show why I’m holding the WBC belt.
“Manny’s movement and hand speed is looking on point right now. That’s what has always made him a great fighter. He doesn’t have an easy style to replicate and that can make sparring tricky. That’s one of the reasons he’s been so successful and why he’s in the position that he is.
“I have a great team behind me. I’ve been fortunate to be with some of the best in the business from the beginning. I’ve just stayed focused and stayed in the gym and that’s why I’ve gotten these opportunities. I give it 100% every time.
“I’ve always trained for every fight like it’s a world title fight, so this is no different. I know who I’m going against and I know the threat he is inside of the ring. But with my team and everything we’re working on in the gym, I just have to go out and execute and we’ll be victorious.
“I’ll definitely be showcasing my indigenous roots for my walkout. That’s something I love to feel as I’m entering the ring. We’ve got something special planned.
“Having my sister Selina in my camp has been really important. We started this boxing journey together when I was six and she was eight. We’ve always been in each other’s corner since the very beginning. Nobody knows me better in and out of the ring than her.”
BOB SANTOS, Barrios’ Trainer
“It’s an honor for me to work with Mario Barrios. From day one, I knew that Barrios was Pitbull. He was reserved and quiet, but you could see in his pro debut that we had something on our hands here.
“This camp has been fantastic. Everyone has been doing a great job with their piece. In the end, Mario has put in the work and he will be victorious on July 19. Take it to the bank.
“You don’t become a world champion in two weight classes by accident. Not too many people have done that and Mario deserves his credit.
“Manny Pacquiao is an icon. There’s nobody more worthy of this opportunity. Look at what he’s given to the sport. Also, inactivity can work in different ways. With an older guy, that time off can be something that helps him. It’s gonna be a great fight for everyone to watch, but ‘El Azteca’ will come out with the win.”
“It’s an honor for me to work with Mario Barrios. From day one, I knew that Barrios was Pitbull. He was reserved and quiet, but you could see in his pro debut that we had something on our hands here.
“This camp has been fantastic. Everyone has been doing a great job with their piece. In the end, Mario has put in the work and he will be victorious on July 19. Take it to the bank.
“You don’t become a world champion in two weight classes by accident. Not too many people have done that and Mario deserves his credit.
“Manny Pacquiao is an icon. There’s nobody more worthy of this opportunity. Look at what he’s given to the sport. Also, inactivity can work in different ways. With an older guy, that time off can be something that helps him. It’s gonna be a great fight for everyone to watch, but ‘El Azteca’ will come out with the win.”
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BKFC results from Birmingham, England |
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In Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) action in Birmingham, England, Connor “Brum Town Bomber” Tierney defeated Danny “The Bastard” Christie via TKO at BKFC 77. Christie’s corner stopped the fight 14 seconds into the fourth round. Tierney is now 9-2 on the strength of back-to-back victories, while the Carlisle, England product Christie’s record falls to 5-3 in defeat Saturday’s event aired LIVE worldwide on The BKFC App. This fight took place in BKFC's welterweight (165-pound) division.
Johannesburg light heavyweight Chas “Bad News” Wasserman smashed his way to 2-2 in the squared circle with a second-round KO at the expense of professional gloved boxing standout Jamie Cox. The fight was called to a stop 40 seconds into the second frame after Wasserman logged the first knockdown of the fight. Cox, who hails from Swindon, England, brought a 26-2 professional gloved boxing record into Saturday’s BKFC debut.
Stoke-On-Trent, England’s Matt “The Mechanic” Wiwczaryk climbed to 2-1 in his bare knuckle career by defeating Marley “The Tank” Churcher in a hard-fought, unanimous decision. All three judges agreed on the 49-46 verdict. The Thatcham, England product Churcher is now 3-4 in bare knuckle action.
James “Lights Out” Lilley improved his overall record to 9-3-1 with a TKO over Madrid’s Fran “Mi Vida Loca” Suarez in lightweight action after Suarez failed to answer the bell at the onset of the third frame. The Swansea, Wales fighter is now 2-2 in the BKFC Squared Circle. Suarez is now 2-2 in bare knuckle.
Burnley, England’s “One Smack” Jack Dugdale lived up to his nickname in his BKFC premiere, stopping “Bonzai” Frankie Gavin of Birmingham by KO just 52 seconds into the opening round of their welterweight showdown. Dugdale is now 4-1 in his bare knuckle career; Gavin, who boasts a professional gloved boxing record of 26-4, was making his debut in the sport.
West Bromwich, England’s Tom Stokes picked himself up off the canvas and rallied for a come-from-behind, second-round KO victory over Ryan “The Tank” Aston of Dudley, England in welterweight action. The bout was called to a stop with just one second left in the second stanza.
Black Country, England’s Dawid “Macho” Chylinski needed just 46 seconds to knock out Jimmy Wallhead of Loughborough, England in their lightning-fast, light-heavyweight matchup. Chylinski logged two knockdowns in the fight and upped his overall record to 4-2 in the process. Wallhead was making his BKFC debut.
Bristol, England’s Mario Soo was victorious in his BKFC premiere, sending Ricky “The Birmingham Bull” Nelder to the canvas three times before their cruiserweight bout was stopped at 1:22 in the third frame. Nelder is now 5-5 in his bare knuckle career.
Debuting Tilburg Noord, Netherlands featherweight Jelle “Barbarius” Zeegers recorded two knockdowns en route to a stoppage victory over Torquay, England’s Toby “The War Dog” Bindon. The fight was called to a stop via TKO at 1:54 of the second round. Bindon was also making his BKFC premiere. Bindon is now 2-4 in bare knuckle.
Ramsgate, England’s Mac "Attack" Bygraves climbed to 2-0 in the squared circle and 3-0 in his overall bare knuckle career, earning the decision victory over “Gorgeous” George Thorpe of Birmingham in middleweight action. All three judges agreed on the winner (50-45, 48-47, 49-47). Thorpe falls to 2-1 in bare knuckle action.
Coventry, England heavyweight Krzysztof “Big Man” Wisniewski turned heads in his BKFC premiere, recording the second-round KO over Thai Tetley of Nottingham, England. Time of the stoppage was 1:49 in the second frame. Wisniewski’s overall bare knuckle record is 2-0; Tetley was making his debut in the sport.
Birmingham’s Kris Trezise edged out Paul “The One Man Army” O’Sullivan of Burton On Trent, England for the decision win in their back-and-forth middleweight showdown. Two judges scored the fight 48-45 while one had it 47-46, all in favor of Trezise, who upped his bare knuckle record to 5-2 with the win. O’Sullivan is now 1-2 in his bare knuckle career.
Birmingham’s Liam “The Ginge from Shard End” Smyth was victorious in his BKFC premiere as the social media star stopped Rafal “The Assassin” Witkoski of Coventry, England in the fourth round of their heavyweight matchup. The KO put a stop to the fight with just four seconds remaining in the fourth frame. Witkoski was also making his BKFC debut.
BKFC 77 Results
(C) Connor Tierney def. Danny Christie via TKO in Round 4 (0:14)
Defends BKFC UK Welterweight Title
Matthew Wiwczaryk def. Marley Churcher via Unanimous Decision (49-46x3)
James Lilley def. Fran Suarez via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)
Jack Dugdale def. Frankie Gavin via KO in Round 1 (0:52)
Tom Stokes def. Ryan Aston via KO in Round 2 (1:59)
Dawid Chylinski def. Jimmy Wallhead via KO in Round 1 (0:46)
Mario Soo def. Ricky Nelder via TKO in Round 3 (1:22)
Jelle Zeegers def. Toby Bindon via TKO in Round 2 (1:54)
Mac Bygraves def. George Thorpe via Unanimous Decision (50-45, 48-47, 49-47).
Krzysztof Wisniewski def. Thai Tetley via KO in Round 2 (1:49)
Kris Trezise def. Paul O’Sullivan via Unanimous Decision (48-45x2, 47-46)
Liam Smyth def. Rafal Witkoski via KO in Round 4 (1:56)
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BKFC results from Birmingham, England
In Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) action in Birmingham, England, Connor “Brum Town Bomber” Tierney defeated Danny “The Bastard” Christie via TKO at BKFC 77. Christie’s corner stopped the fight 14 seconds into the fourth round. Tierney is now 9-2 on the strength of back-to-back victories, while the Carlisle, England product Christie’s record falls to 5-3 in defeat Saturday’s event aired LIVE worldwide on The BKFC App. This fight took place in BKFC's welterweight (165-pound) division.
Johannesburg light heavyweight Chas “Bad News” Wasserman smashed his way to 2-2 in the squared circle with a second-round KO at the expense of professional gloved boxing standout Jamie Cox. The fight was called to a stop 40 seconds into the second frame after Wasserman logged the first knockdown of the fight. Cox, who hails from Swindon, England, brought a 26-2 professional gloved boxing record into Saturday’s BKFC debut.
Stoke-On-Trent, England’s Matt “The Mechanic” Wiwczaryk climbed to 2-1 in his bare knuckle career by defeating Marley “The Tank” Churcher in a hard-fought, unanimous decision. All three judges agreed on the 49-46 verdict. The Thatcham, England product Churcher is now 3-4 in bare knuckle action.
James “Lights Out” Lilley improved his overall record to 9-3-1 with a TKO over Madrid’s Fran “Mi Vida Loca” Suarez in lightweight action after Suarez failed to answer the bell at the onset of the third frame. The Swansea, Wales fighter is now 2-2 in the BKFC Squared Circle. Suarez is now 2-2 in bare knuckle.
Burnley, England’s “One Smack” Jack Dugdale lived up to his nickname in his BKFC premiere, stopping “Bonzai” Frankie Gavin of Birmingham by KO just 52 seconds into the opening round of their welterweight showdown. Dugdale is now 4-1 in his bare knuckle career; Gavin, who boasts a professional gloved boxing record of 26-4, was making his debut in the sport.
West Bromwich, England’s Tom Stokes picked himself up off the canvas and rallied for a come-from-behind, second-round KO victory over Ryan “The Tank” Aston of Dudley, England in welterweight action. The bout was called to a stop with just one second left in the second stanza.
Black Country, England’s Dawid “Macho” Chylinski needed just 46 seconds to knock out Jimmy Wallhead of Loughborough, England in their lightning-fast, light-heavyweight matchup. Chylinski logged two knockdowns in the fight and upped his overall record to 4-2 in the process. Wallhead was making his BKFC debut.
Bristol, England’s Mario Soo was victorious in his BKFC premiere, sending Ricky “The Birmingham Bull” Nelder to the canvas three times before their cruiserweight bout was stopped at 1:22 in the third frame. Nelder is now 5-5 in his bare knuckle career.
Debuting Tilburg Noord, Netherlands featherweight Jelle “Barbarius” Zeegers recorded two knockdowns en route to a stoppage victory over Torquay, England’s Toby “The War Dog” Bindon. The fight was called to a stop via TKO at 1:54 of the second round. Bindon was also making his BKFC premiere. Bindon is now 2-4 in bare knuckle.
Ramsgate, England’s Mac "Attack" Bygraves climbed to 2-0 in the squared circle and 3-0 in his overall bare knuckle career, earning the decision victory over “Gorgeous” George Thorpe of Birmingham in middleweight action. All three judges agreed on the winner (50-45, 48-47, 49-47). Thorpe falls to 2-1 in bare knuckle action.
Coventry, England heavyweight Krzysztof “Big Man” Wisniewski turned heads in his BKFC premiere, recording the second-round KO over Thai Tetley of Nottingham, England. Time of the stoppage was 1:49 in the second frame. Wisniewski’s overall bare knuckle record is 2-0; Tetley was making his debut in the sport.
Birmingham’s Kris Trezise edged out Paul “The One Man Army” O’Sullivan of Burton On Trent, England for the decision win in their back-and-forth middleweight showdown. Two judges scored the fight 48-45 while one had it 47-46, all in favor of Trezise, who upped his bare knuckle record to 5-2 with the win. O’Sullivan is now 1-2 in his bare knuckle career.
Birmingham’s Liam “The Ginge from Shard End” Smyth was victorious in his BKFC premiere as the social media star stopped Rafal “The Assassin” Witkoski of Coventry, England in the fourth round of their heavyweight matchup. The KO put a stop to the fight with just four seconds remaining in the fourth frame. Witkoski was also making his BKFC debut.
BKFC 77 Results
(C) Connor Tierney def. Danny Christie via TKO in Round 4 (0:14)
Defends BKFC UK Welterweight Title
Matthew Wiwczaryk def. Marley Churcher via Unanimous Decision (49-46x3)
James Lilley def. Fran Suarez via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)
Jack Dugdale def. Frankie Gavin via KO in Round 1 (0:52)
Tom Stokes def. Ryan Aston via KO in Round 2 (1:59)
Dawid Chylinski def. Jimmy Wallhead via KO in Round 1 (0:46)
Mario Soo def. Ricky Nelder via TKO in Round 3 (1:22)
Jelle Zeegers def. Toby Bindon via TKO in Round 2 (1:54)
Mac Bygraves def. George Thorpe via Unanimous Decision (50-45, 48-47, 49-47).
Krzysztof Wisniewski def. Thai Tetley via KO in Round 2 (1:49)
Kris Trezise def. Paul O’Sullivan via Unanimous Decision (48-45x2, 47-46)
Liam Smyth def. Rafal Witkoski via KO in Round 4 (1:56)
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Brandon Figueroa training camp report |
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Former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa will look to set himself back onto a championship path, this time with a new trainer in Manny Robles at the helm, as he takes on Joet Gonzalez as part of the PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, July 19th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Following a loss in his last outing, a WBC featherweight championship bout and rematch against Stephen Fulton Jr., Figueroa discussed the thought process of joining forces with the highly-renowned Robles. “I talked to my dad about wanting to get to the next level and said I wanted to get with the right team and grow as a fighter,” said Figueroa. “I’ve been here with Manny ever since and I’m really happy with it and can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on…The chemistry with Manny has been great and I trust him. We’re just going to keep getting better and better. If this is what it takes to get to that next level, I’m gonna put in 110 percent.”
After a narrow defeat in their 2021 super bantamweight unification clash, Figueroa gotthe Fulton rematch and lost his WBC 126-pound crown in February via decision. With his new team in tow, Figueroa believes that the changes in training will help him bounce back from the loss. “I worked my butt off for my last fight, but I’ve been going harder now,” said Figueroa. “You need a great team, and it’s not that I didn’t have a great team before, but I needed something new. I don’t have my family here with me and that’s a sacrifice I had to make. I really love boxing and everything this sport represents and how everything is on you. That’s the mentality that I’m bringing into the ring.”
Although he clocks in at a tall for the weight class five-foot-nine, Figueroa stated that his aim is to regain his featherweight world championship before moving up in weight to a third division and beyond. “My goal is to become a featherweight world champion again before moving up in weight again,” said Figueroa. “We’ve been on a mission to keep conquering weight classes. Right now featherweight is where we’re at and I can’t wait until fight night.”
Despite coming in off a loss, Figueroa has taken no easy touch in his return to action, as he’s set to square off against a veteran contender at 126-pounds in Joet Gonzalez (27-4, 15 KOs). All of Gonzalez’s defeats have come at the hands of world champions, and he most recently turned away fellow contender Arnold Khegai by decision in March. On top of his accomplishments, Figueroa believes that Gonzalez’s style makes him a formidable opponent who should deliver compelling action for fans.
“From what I’ve seen watching his fights, Joet is a come-forward boxer and a pressure fighter,” said Figueroa. “He’s got great work rate and great pace. He fits perfectly for my style, because I won’t have to chase him or figure him out.
“I’m very comfortable fighting on the inside. If you fight me on the inside, it’s gonna be a tough night for you. We’re two good inside fighters and we’ll see who’s better and who can capitalize on each other’s mistakes. I know he’s gonna come hungry and ready on a big card. Neither of us wants to lose on this stage. I’m gonna go out there and give it my all.”
Adding to his motivation heading into July 19th is Figueroa’s excitement to be opening up the card for the Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao. While discussing sharing the stage with a boxing legend, Figueroa recalled his fondness for Pacquiao’s battles with the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera and Antonio Margarito, and detailed the extra onus he feels to be setting the table for Pacquiao.
“I could never have imagined when I started my career that I’d be fighting on Manny Pacquiao’s undercard,” said Figueroa, whose pro debut came one week after the famed Floyd Mayweather vs. Pacquiao mega-event. “He fought at MGM Grand in 1998 and I was 2-years-old. That’s the first year I ever put gloves on. He’ll always be everyone’s favorite fighter at heart. He’s the people’s champ. It’s a blessing that I get to do this and be around great champions.
“The energy is just different in this fight. Everyone wants to perform with a great legend like Manny coming back. It’s historic. It’s my job to open up this card in great fashion. We’re trying to make this Fight of the Night and maybe Fight of the Year.”
To close out his feelings on stepping into the ring July 19, Figueroa believes that the whole card, littered with champions and surefire action fights, will be a celebration of the sport.
“It’s gonna be a great night of boxing,” said Figueroa. “I think this card is gonna show why we love boxing, and it’s gonna start with me. I just can’t wait.”
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Brandon Figueroa training camp report
Former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa will look to set himself back onto a championship path, this time with a new trainer in Manny Robles at the helm, as he takes on Joet Gonzalez as part of the PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, July 19th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Following a loss in his last outing, a WBC featherweight championship bout and rematch against Stephen Fulton Jr., Figueroa discussed the thought process of joining forces with the highly-renowned Robles. “I talked to my dad about wanting to get to the next level and said I wanted to get with the right team and grow as a fighter,” said Figueroa. “I’ve been here with Manny ever since and I’m really happy with it and can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on…The chemistry with Manny has been great and I trust him. We’re just going to keep getting better and better. If this is what it takes to get to that next level, I’m gonna put in 110 percent.”
After a narrow defeat in their 2021 super bantamweight unification clash, Figueroa gotthe Fulton rematch and lost his WBC 126-pound crown in February via decision. With his new team in tow, Figueroa believes that the changes in training will help him bounce back from the loss. “I worked my butt off for my last fight, but I’ve been going harder now,” said Figueroa. “You need a great team, and it’s not that I didn’t have a great team before, but I needed something new. I don’t have my family here with me and that’s a sacrifice I had to make. I really love boxing and everything this sport represents and how everything is on you. That’s the mentality that I’m bringing into the ring.”
Although he clocks in at a tall for the weight class five-foot-nine, Figueroa stated that his aim is to regain his featherweight world championship before moving up in weight to a third division and beyond. “My goal is to become a featherweight world champion again before moving up in weight again,” said Figueroa. “We’ve been on a mission to keep conquering weight classes. Right now featherweight is where we’re at and I can’t wait until fight night.”
Despite coming in off a loss, Figueroa has taken no easy touch in his return to action, as he’s set to square off against a veteran contender at 126-pounds in Joet Gonzalez (27-4, 15 KOs). All of Gonzalez’s defeats have come at the hands of world champions, and he most recently turned away fellow contender Arnold Khegai by decision in March. On top of his accomplishments, Figueroa believes that Gonzalez’s style makes him a formidable opponent who should deliver compelling action for fans.
“From what I’ve seen watching his fights, Joet is a come-forward boxer and a pressure fighter,” said Figueroa. “He’s got great work rate and great pace. He fits perfectly for my style, because I won’t have to chase him or figure him out.
“I’m very comfortable fighting on the inside. If you fight me on the inside, it’s gonna be a tough night for you. We’re two good inside fighters and we’ll see who’s better and who can capitalize on each other’s mistakes. I know he’s gonna come hungry and ready on a big card. Neither of us wants to lose on this stage. I’m gonna go out there and give it my all.”
Adding to his motivation heading into July 19th is Figueroa’s excitement to be opening up the card for the Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao. While discussing sharing the stage with a boxing legend, Figueroa recalled his fondness for Pacquiao’s battles with the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera and Antonio Margarito, and detailed the extra onus he feels to be setting the table for Pacquiao.
“I could never have imagined when I started my career that I’d be fighting on Manny Pacquiao’s undercard,” said Figueroa, whose pro debut came one week after the famed Floyd Mayweather vs. Pacquiao mega-event. “He fought at MGM Grand in 1998 and I was 2-years-old. That’s the first year I ever put gloves on. He’ll always be everyone’s favorite fighter at heart. He’s the people’s champ. It’s a blessing that I get to do this and be around great champions.
“The energy is just different in this fight. Everyone wants to perform with a great legend like Manny coming back. It’s historic. It’s my job to open up this card in great fashion. We’re trying to make this Fight of the Night and maybe Fight of the Year.”
To close out his feelings on stepping into the ring July 19, Figueroa believes that the whole card, littered with champions and surefire action fights, will be a celebration of the sport.
“It’s gonna be a great night of boxing,” said Figueroa. “I think this card is gonna show why we love boxing, and it’s gonna start with me. I just can’t wait.”
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Haney poised to challenge Norman for welterweight title |
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Turki Alalshikh, Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, informally announced on social media that WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman will be defending his title vs. Devin Haney (pictured) in a battle on undefeated boxers, with Haney attempting to become a three-division champion. Alalshikh tweeted, "Thank you to [promoter] Bob Arum and [his company] Top Rank for working with us and Riyadh Season to deliver their [WBO welterweight] champion, Brian Norman, in a title defense vs. Devin Haney in November. More to come with Top Rank."
Haney, a former two-division champion, won his last fight vs. Jose Carlos Ramirez but fought very reluctantly and has received criticism for his safety-first style in that bout. Haney's strategy was very understandable in light his prior fight, in which he took a lot of punishment from an illegally enhanced Ryan Garcia. That fight was declared a no contest after Garcia tested positive for perfomrance enhancing substances. While the loss came off Haney's record, the punishment to his body did not. Haney's record as a pro is 32-0 with the one no contest vs. Garcia.
In his last fight, Norman defended his title with a concussive fifth-round knockout of hometown challenger Jin Sasaki at Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This marked the second successful defense for the 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), an Atlanta native and boxing's youngest male world champion. Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) saw his nine-fight unbeaten streak end at the hands of Norman, who unleashed a powerful left hook that left him on the canvas for several minutes. “It was a wonderful fight. I had a great opponent in front of me. You all seen he got heart. That boy is not a slouch at all. I give nothing but props to him. I love ya’ll over here in Japan. I’d gladly come back," Norman said. “I knew whatever he was bringing to the table, I’m a champion for a reason. As you saw, I showed that.”
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Haney poised to challenge Norman for welterweight title
Turki Alalshikh, Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, informally announced on social media that WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman will be defending his title vs. Devin Haney (pictured) in a battle on undefeated boxers, with Haney attempting to become a three-division champion. Alalshikh tweeted, "Thank you to [promoter] Bob Arum and [his company] Top Rank for working with us and Riyadh Season to deliver their [WBO welterweight] champion, Brian Norman, in a title defense vs. Devin Haney in November. More to come with Top Rank."
Haney, a former two-division champion, won his last fight vs. Jose Carlos Ramirez but fought very reluctantly and has received criticism for his safety-first style in that bout. Haney's strategy was very understandable in light his prior fight, in which he took a lot of punishment from an illegally enhanced Ryan Garcia. That fight was declared a no contest after Garcia tested positive for perfomrance enhancing substances. While the loss came off Haney's record, the punishment to his body did not. Haney's record as a pro is 32-0 with the one no contest vs. Garcia.
In his last fight, Norman defended his title with a concussive fifth-round knockout of hometown challenger Jin Sasaki at Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This marked the second successful defense for the 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), an Atlanta native and boxing's youngest male world champion. Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) saw his nine-fight unbeaten streak end at the hands of Norman, who unleashed a powerful left hook that left him on the canvas for several minutes. “It was a wonderful fight. I had a great opponent in front of me. You all seen he got heart. That boy is not a slouch at all. I give nothing but props to him. I love ya’ll over here in Japan. I’d gladly come back," Norman said. “I knew whatever he was bringing to the table, I’m a champion for a reason. As you saw, I showed that.”
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Vergil Ortiz rips Jake Paul "circus" |
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Vergil Ortiz (pictured), holder of the WBC interim junior middleweight title tweeted the following in the wake of Jake Paul's victory over a very unaggressive Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr.: "Jake Paul is scamming the entire world with his circus fights selling them as real fights but the entire world continues to eat it all up and then have the nerve to be disappointed because the circus fights they pay to watch aren’t real fights. He is single handedly destroying the sport and everyone else is enabling it. You guys are going to continue covering and watching the circuses hoping for the umpeenth time that this circus will be real. What is it called again when you keep doing the same thing expecting different results? You have to applaud Jake Paul for keeping up the charade this long and for having everyone else still believe it."
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Vergil Ortiz rips Jake Paul "circus"
Vergil Ortiz (pictured), holder of the WBC interim junior middleweight title tweeted the following in the wake of Jake Paul's victory over a very unaggressive Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr.: "Jake Paul is scamming the entire world with his circus fights selling them as real fights but the entire world continues to eat it all up and then have the nerve to be disappointed because the circus fights they pay to watch aren’t real fights. He is single handedly destroying the sport and everyone else is enabling it. You guys are going to continue covering and watching the circuses hoping for the umpeenth time that this circus will be real. What is it called again when you keep doing the same thing expecting different results? You have to applaud Jake Paul for keeping up the charade this long and for having everyone else still believe it."
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Mercado prepping for July unification bout vs. Scotney |
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Hailing from Ciudad Cuauhtémoc in Chihuahua, Mexico, Yamileth "Yeimi" Mercado (pictured) has held the WBC super bantamweight world title since November 2019, when she dethroned Kenya’s Fatuma Zarika. Since then, she’s racked up seven successful title defenses, highlighted by her most recent win, a unanimous decision in June 2024 over Ramla Ali. With a professional record of 24 wins, 3 losses and 5 KOs, Mercado has solidified her position as a force in Mexican women’s boxing. Her aggressive yet technical style, coupled with her unwavering discipline, has been honed under the tutelage of Zanfer Boxing, one of Latin America’s premier promoters.
“Yeimi’s” story also underscores her sheer determination: due to limited amateur activity in her region, she turned professional at just 16 years old after a brief but impactful stint in amateur boxing. Mercado also pursued a nursing degree, juggling her training sessions with hospital rotations. She even woke up at 3 AM to train before heading to the hospital, allowing her to hit the books and throw punches simultaneously.
Mercado, is now bracing for the biggest challenge of her career: a unification bout against the UK’s Ellie Scotney, the IBF and WBO champion. The fight is slated for Friday, July 11th 2025, at New York’s legendary Madison Square Garden. It will be a featured bout on the highly anticipated Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III card.
The clash with Scotney, who is undefeated fighter in ten fights, presents a historic opportunity for Mercado to become a unified champion and pave the way for an eventual undisputed championship in a division where Mexico has maintained a strong foothold. [The WBA champion is Mayelli Flores Rosquero of Mexico]. The event, promoted by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) in association with Matchroom Boxing and Zanfer Boxing, is shaping up to be the year’s most significant date for women’s boxing.
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Mercado prepping for July unification bout vs. Scotney
Hailing from Ciudad Cuauhtémoc in Chihuahua, Mexico, Yamileth "Yeimi" Mercado (pictured) has held the WBC super bantamweight world title since November 2019, when she dethroned Kenya’s Fatuma Zarika. Since then, she’s racked up seven successful title defenses, highlighted by her most recent win, a unanimous decision in June 2024 over Ramla Ali. With a professional record of 24 wins, 3 losses and 5 KOs, Mercado has solidified her position as a force in Mexican women’s boxing. Her aggressive yet technical style, coupled with her unwavering discipline, has been honed under the tutelage of Zanfer Boxing, one of Latin America’s premier promoters.
“Yeimi’s” story also underscores her sheer determination: due to limited amateur activity in her region, she turned professional at just 16 years old after a brief but impactful stint in amateur boxing. Mercado also pursued a nursing degree, juggling her training sessions with hospital rotations. She even woke up at 3 AM to train before heading to the hospital, allowing her to hit the books and throw punches simultaneously.
Mercado, is now bracing for the biggest challenge of her career: a unification bout against the UK’s Ellie Scotney, the IBF and WBO champion. The fight is slated for Friday, July 11th 2025, at New York’s legendary Madison Square Garden. It will be a featured bout on the highly anticipated Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III card.
The clash with Scotney, who is undefeated fighter in ten fights, presents a historic opportunity for Mercado to become a unified champion and pave the way for an eventual undisputed championship in a division where Mexico has maintained a strong foothold. [The WBA champion is Mayelli Flores Rosquero of Mexico]. The event, promoted by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) in association with Matchroom Boxing and Zanfer Boxing, is shaping up to be the year’s most significant date for women’s boxing.
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Turkiye vs. Colombia bouts result in 1-1 split |
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Avni Yildirim KO3 Jhon Caicedo... On Thursday at the Sinan Erdem Sports Complex in Istanbul, Avni Yildirim (27-5) defeated Jhon Caicedo in a light heavyweight bout. The previously unbeaten Caicedo was beating the Turk on the scorecards in the first round, but by the second, Caicedo (13-1) no longer had the strength to maintain the advantage. Yildirim, best known for being easy pickings against Canelo Alvarez, quickly turned the fight around by knocking Caicedo out. The Colombian fell twice in the second round and once in the third.
Juan Diego Ortiz TKO2 Serhat Guler... In the main event, another Colombian, Juan Diego Ortiz, defeated local favorite Serhat Guler in a middleweight contest. The fight lasted only two rounds because Ortiz knocked the Guler down twice, with the second one being enough for the referee to stop the fight. Ortiz returns home 10-1, while Guler drops to 8-2.
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Turkiye vs. Colombia bouts result in 1-1 split
Avni Yildirim KO3 Jhon Caicedo... On Thursday at the Sinan Erdem Sports Complex in Istanbul, Avni Yildirim (27-5) defeated Jhon Caicedo in a light heavyweight bout. The previously unbeaten Caicedo was beating the Turk on the scorecards in the first round, but by the second, Caicedo (13-1) no longer had the strength to maintain the advantage. Yildirim, best known for being easy pickings against Canelo Alvarez, quickly turned the fight around by knocking Caicedo out. The Colombian fell twice in the second round and once in the third.
Juan Diego Ortiz TKO2 Serhat Guler... In the main event, another Colombian, Juan Diego Ortiz, defeated local favorite Serhat Guler in a middleweight contest. The fight lasted only two rounds because Ortiz knocked the Guler down twice, with the second one being enough for the referee to stop the fight. Ortiz returns home 10-1, while Guler drops to 8-2.
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South African boxing update |
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Akani Sambu W10 Sabelo Cebekhulu... On Friday in Thohoyandou, South Africa, Akani Sambu fended off the challenge of compatriot Sabelo Cebekhulu, winning a controversial split decision. The 118-pound contest headlined “Survival of the Fittest”, a card promoted by Mama Rocks Boxing Promotions at the Khoroni Hotel Casino. Sambu started strongly, flooring Cebekhulu in round two with a left hook, but it was an even fight midway through and when Cebekhulu took over in the second half and scored a knockdown of his own in round seven, it looked like the decision could go either way. Judge Phumeza Zinakile scored it 95-93 for the challenger, but he was overruled by judges Mike Phiri and Gezani Hlungwane, who had it 95-93 and a much too wide 97-91 for Sambu. Sambu improved his pro record to 7-1-1 with 3 KOs. Cebekhulu falls to 7-2 with 3. KOs.
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South African boxing update
Akani Sambu W10 Sabelo Cebekhulu... On Friday in Thohoyandou, South Africa, Akani Sambu fended off the challenge of compatriot Sabelo Cebekhulu, winning a controversial split decision. The 118-pound contest headlined “Survival of the Fittest”, a card promoted by Mama Rocks Boxing Promotions at the Khoroni Hotel Casino. Sambu started strongly, flooring Cebekhulu in round two with a left hook, but it was an even fight midway through and when Cebekhulu took over in the second half and scored a knockdown of his own in round seven, it looked like the decision could go either way. Judge Phumeza Zinakile scored it 95-93 for the challenger, but he was overruled by judges Mike Phiri and Gezani Hlungwane, who had it 95-93 and a much too wide 97-91 for Sambu. Sambu improved his pro record to 7-1-1 with 3 KOs. Cebekhulu falls to 7-2 with 3. KOs.
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Paul wins by decision over a reluctant Chavez Jr. |
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Jake Paul W10 Julio Cesar Chavez Jr... In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul got in ten rounds of good work but was never seriously challenged by Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul won nearly every round but failed to hurt Chavez, a former champion from 2011-2012 who hasn't taken boxing seriously for years. Paul tired over the last two rounds, allowing Chavez to save some face after a generally dismal performance. Still, Paul won a deserved lopsided unanimous decision by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is likely to enter the world rankings of at least one of the major sanctioning bodies. Compubox credited Paul with a 141-60 edge in punches landed. For the first three rounds, Chavez's offense was virtually nonexistent. With the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. screamimng from ringside in frustration, his son finally landed a punch just before the end of round three. Things heated up a bit in the fourth as Chavez began to come forward a little more, but Paul still won the round. Chavez simply would not let his hands go with any regularity, and the couple of times that he did when he was in punching range, Paul wisely tied Chavez up.The packed, pro-Mexican crowd tried to will Chavez forward over the second half of the fight, but Chavez lacked the energy to throw extended combinations. It should be remembered that Chavez is 39 years old and as a former middleweight champion now fighting at cruiserweight, he is 40 pounds over his best weight. The momentum turned in round nine as Paul tired and Chavez landed several good blows. The tenth round featured the best exchanges of the contest, as a tired Paul fought back against a surging, suddenly aggressive Chavez. The late rally was not enough to overcome the first eight rounds.
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Paul wins by decision over a reluctant Chavez Jr.
Jake Paul W10 Julio Cesar Chavez Jr... In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul got in ten rounds of good work but was never seriously challenged by Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Paul won nearly every round but failed to hurt Chavez, a former champion from 2011-2012 who hasn't taken boxing seriously for years. Paul tired over the last two rounds, allowing Chavez to save some face after a generally dismal performance. Still, Paul won a deserved lopsided unanimous decision by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is likely to enter the world rankings of at least one of the major sanctioning bodies. Compubox credited Paul with a 141-60 edge in punches landed. For the first three rounds, Chavez's offense was virtually nonexistent. With the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. screamimng from ringside in frustration, his son finally landed a punch just before the end of round three. Things heated up a bit in the fourth as Chavez began to come forward a little more, but Paul still won the round. Chavez simply would not let his hands go with any regularity, and the couple of times that he did when he was in punching range, Paul wisely tied Chavez up.The packed, pro-Mexican crowd tried to will Chavez forward over the second half of the fight, but Chavez lacked the energy to throw extended combinations. It should be remembered that Chavez is 39 years old and as a former middleweight champion now fighting at cruiserweight, he is 40 pounds over his best weight. The momentum turned in round nine as Paul tired and Chavez landed several good blows. The tenth round featured the best exchanges of the contest, as a tired Paul fought back against a surging, suddenly aggressive Chavez. The late rally was not enough to overcome the first eight rounds.
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Ramirez rallies to defeat Dorticos |
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Gilberto Ramirez W12 Yuniel Dorticos... Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez started slowly but worked his way back into the fight, and wound up retaining his WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles by unanimous decision over Yuniel Dorticos in Anaheim, California on Saturday. Official scores were 115-112 (twice) and 117-110 for Ramirez. Doticos, a former champion from Cuba, was penalized a point for repeated low blows. The 39 year-old Dorticos (27-3) lost a lot of steam over the second half of the fight. Ramirez (48-1), who is also a former super middleweight champ, said he hopes his next fight will be a three-belt unification contest vs. IBF cruiserweight champ Jai Opetaia of Australia.
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Ramirez rallies to defeat Dorticos
Gilberto Ramirez W12 Yuniel Dorticos... Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez started slowly but worked his way back into the fight, and wound up retaining his WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles by unanimous decision over Yuniel Dorticos in Anaheim, California on Saturday. Official scores were 115-112 (twice) and 117-110 for Ramirez. Doticos, a former champion from Cuba, was penalized a point for repeated low blows. The 39 year-old Dorticos (27-3) lost a lot of steam over the second half of the fight. Ramirez (48-1), who is also a former super middleweight champ, said he hopes his next fight will be a three-belt unification contest vs. IBF cruiserweight champ Jai Opetaia of Australia.
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Schofield destroys Farmer in one round |
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Floyd Schofield Jr. TKO1 Tevin Farmer.... Floyd Schofield Jr. got a career-best win in Anaheim, California, destroying former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer in the first round of their lightweight contest. Schofield knocked down Farmer twice and was on the verge of the third knockdown when the referee intervened to save Farmer from further punishment. Schofield shed some tears afterwards. Just 22 years old, Schofield has been tormented on social media for pulling out of a world title shot after initially agreeing to challenge Shakur Stevenson for the WBA title. Schofield also said he was good friends with Farmer. Schofield is now 19-0 and deserves to zoom up the lightweight rankings after looking not-so-great in his last fight, a decision win over Rene Tellez Giron. Farmer (33-9-1) has now lost four in a row, but the last two were very competitive twelve-round fights vs. WBC interim titlist William Zepeda, with Farmer narrowly losing both on the scorecards.
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Schofield destroys Farmer in one round
Floyd Schofield Jr. TKO1 Tevin Farmer.... Floyd Schofield Jr. got a career-best win in Anaheim, California, destroying former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer in the first round of their lightweight contest. Schofield knocked down Farmer twice and was on the verge of the third knockdown when the referee intervened to save Farmer from further punishment. Schofield shed some tears afterwards. Just 22 years old, Schofield has been tormented on social media for pulling out of a world title shot after initially agreeing to challenge Shakur Stevenson for the WBA title. Schofield also said he was good friends with Farmer. Schofield is now 19-0 and deserves to zoom up the lightweight rankings after looking not-so-great in his last fight, a decision win over Rene Tellez Giron. Farmer (33-9-1) has now lost four in a row, but the last two were very competitive twelve-round fights vs. WBC interim titlist William Zepeda, with Farmer narrowly losing both on the scorecards.
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DAZN undercard results from Anaheim, CA |
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Julian Rodriguez KO10 Avious Griffin... New Jersey welterweight Julian Rodriguez dramatically resurrected his career by knocking out previously undefeated Avious Griffin just a few seconds before the final bell was about to sound. Rodriguez did well in the first half of the fight but had to come back from a seventh-round knockdown. Rodriguez did well in round eight but, according to the DAZN broadcast, two of the official judges had it scored even (85-85) after nine rounds. That meant the fight was up for grabs in round ten, when a big left hook blasted Griffin, putting him on jelly legs with roughly twenty seconds left. A few punches later and Griffin (17-1) was down for the first time in his career. He tried hard to beat the count, but he crumbled back to the canvas at the count of nine. Rodriguez had a great amateur background and a strong start to his pro career, but his career lacked momentum for the last four years after losing to former two-division champ Jose Pedraza.
Raul Curiel TKO4 Victor Rodriguez ... Raul Curiel defeated Victor Rodriguez via fourth-round technical knockout. With Rodriguez's nose appearing to be broken, a crunching uppercut from Curiel sent him crashing to the canvas. A barrage of punches later and the referee stepped in to stop the action. Curiel, from Mexico, is now 16-0 with 14 KOs and seems to be a growing force at welterweight. Rodriguez heads back to Uruguay with a record of 16-1-1. This was his first fight outside of South America, and the difference in his prior low-level of opposition there showed.
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DAZN undercard results from Anaheim, CA
Julian Rodriguez KO10 Avious Griffin... New Jersey welterweight Julian Rodriguez dramatically resurrected his career by knocking out previously undefeated Avious Griffin just a few seconds before the final bell was about to sound. Rodriguez did well in the first half of the fight but had to come back from a seventh-round knockdown. Rodriguez did well in round eight but, according to the DAZN broadcast, two of the official judges had it scored even (85-85) after nine rounds. That meant the fight was up for grabs in round ten, when a big left hook blasted Griffin, putting him on jelly legs with roughly twenty seconds left. A few punches later and Griffin (17-1) was down for the first time in his career. He tried hard to beat the count, but he crumbled back to the canvas at the count of nine. Rodriguez had a great amateur background and a strong start to his pro career, but his career lacked momentum for the last four years after losing to former two-division champ Jose Pedraza.
Raul Curiel TKO4 Victor Rodriguez ... Raul Curiel defeated Victor Rodriguez via fourth-round technical knockout. With Rodriguez's nose appearing to be broken, a crunching uppercut from Curiel sent him crashing to the canvas. A barrage of punches later and the referee stepped in to stop the action. Curiel, from Mexico, is now 16-0 with 14 KOs and seems to be a growing force at welterweight. Rodriguez heads back to Uruguay with a record of 16-1-1. This was his first fight outside of South America, and the difference in his prior low-level of opposition there showed.
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PPV.com back with Barrios vs. Pacquiao |
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PPV.com, which does not require a subscription, returns in the U.S. and Canada for the historic battle between International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao (pictured), boxing's only eight-division champion and reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario "El Azteca" Barrios. In a career made up of firsts, Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs) from the Philippines, will attempt to become the first IBHOF inductee to end his retirement and win a world title inside the ring, something even the great Sugar Ray Leonard attempted, albeit unsuccessfully. It will be a tall order, literally, inasmuch as Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs) from San Antonio, Texas, has a 6 1/2-inch height advantage. The Barrios-Pacquiao rumble will headline a pay-per-view card, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 19th beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. It will be priced at $79.99.
"Manny Pacquiao will likely be the heavy underdog in his July title challenge against Mario Barrios. Four years off and fighting a much younger champion. But, if anyone can go back to the well and pull off one more spectacular performance, it’s the Pac Man! You can never truly count out Manny Pacquiao," said former WBO junior welterweight champion and one-time Pacquiao world title fight opponent Chris Algieri, who will co-host the exclusive and popular viewer chat, in real time, throughout the PPV.com HD live stream.
Joining Chris on the live viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio. Chris, Lance, and Dan will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.com's website and social platforms.
The Pacquiao vs. Barrios pay-per-view live stream undercard will feature three exciting bouts, including a rematch between WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian "Towering Inferno" Fundora (22-1-1, 14 KOs), from Coachella, California, in a title defense against former champion Tim Tszyu (25-2, 18 KOs), from Australia, and former WBA 140-pound champion Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz (27-3-1, 18 KOs), from Mexico, against Angel Fierro (23-3-2, 18 KOs), a Mexican native fighting out of Lakeside, California, in a twelve-round redo of their February battle. The PPV.com live stream will open with a ten-round featherweight rumble between former two-division champion Brandon "The Heartbreaker" Figueroa (25-2-1, 19 KOs), from Weslaco, Texas, and Joet Gonzalez (27-4, 15 KOs), from Los Angeles.
PPV.com, which does not require a subscription, will offer Pacquiao vs. Barrios for $79.99 in the U.S. and Canada. iNDemand, the parent company of PPV.com, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.
The popular podcast, Inside Boxing Live, hosted by Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri, can be found at PPV.com, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats. For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.com, click here Inside Boxing Live - YouTube.
Lance Pugmire is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America's highest honor. He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic. Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.
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PPV.com back with Barrios vs. Pacquiao
PPV.com, which does not require a subscription, returns in the U.S. and Canada for the historic battle between International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao (pictured), boxing's only eight-division champion and reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario "El Azteca" Barrios. In a career made up of firsts, Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs) from the Philippines, will attempt to become the first IBHOF inductee to end his retirement and win a world title inside the ring, something even the great Sugar Ray Leonard attempted, albeit unsuccessfully. It will be a tall order, literally, inasmuch as Barrios (29-2-1, 18 KOs) from San Antonio, Texas, has a 6 1/2-inch height advantage. The Barrios-Pacquiao rumble will headline a pay-per-view card, live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 19th beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT. It will be priced at $79.99.
"Manny Pacquiao will likely be the heavy underdog in his July title challenge against Mario Barrios. Four years off and fighting a much younger champion. But, if anyone can go back to the well and pull off one more spectacular performance, it’s the Pac Man! You can never truly count out Manny Pacquiao," said former WBO junior welterweight champion and one-time Pacquiao world title fight opponent Chris Algieri, who will co-host the exclusive and popular viewer chat, in real time, throughout the PPV.com HD live stream.
Joining Chris on the live viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio. Chris, Lance, and Dan will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.com's website and social platforms.
The Pacquiao vs. Barrios pay-per-view live stream undercard will feature three exciting bouts, including a rematch between WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian "Towering Inferno" Fundora (22-1-1, 14 KOs), from Coachella, California, in a title defense against former champion Tim Tszyu (25-2, 18 KOs), from Australia, and former WBA 140-pound champion Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz (27-3-1, 18 KOs), from Mexico, against Angel Fierro (23-3-2, 18 KOs), a Mexican native fighting out of Lakeside, California, in a twelve-round redo of their February battle. The PPV.com live stream will open with a ten-round featherweight rumble between former two-division champion Brandon "The Heartbreaker" Figueroa (25-2-1, 19 KOs), from Weslaco, Texas, and Joet Gonzalez (27-4, 15 KOs), from Los Angeles.
PPV.com, which does not require a subscription, will offer Pacquiao vs. Barrios for $79.99 in the U.S. and Canada. iNDemand, the parent company of PPV.com, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.
The popular podcast, Inside Boxing Live, hosted by Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri, can be found at PPV.com, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats. For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.com, click here Inside Boxing Live - YouTube.
Lance Pugmire is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America's highest honor. He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic. Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.
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Weigh-in report for tonight's PPV from Anaheim, CA |
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Jake Paul returns to the ring tonight (Saturday) when he clashes with ex-middleweight title holder Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, live on DAZN pay-per-view. Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) did not get a stoppage win over Mike Tyson in November but did defeat the legend on points. Chavez Jr. (54-6-1 with 1 no contest, 34 KOs) [has not competed diligently for years but] last produced a unanimous decision win over Uriah Hall last July. The undercard also sees a superb contest as Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez and ex-champ Yuniel Dorticos clash, with Zurdo's unified cruiserweight titles on the line. Also on the bill Holly Holm and Yolanda Vega meet, and Floyd Schofield and Tevin Farmer go at it.
Here are the boxers' weights for the featured fights:
WBC / WBO cruiserweight championship
Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez 199.8 pounds vs. Yuniel Dorticos 198.6;
Main event - ten rounds
Jake Paul - 199.4 vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr - 198.4;
Floyd Schofield Jr. 134.8 vs. Tevin Farmer 135; and
Raul Curiel 146.4 vs. Victor Rodriguez 145.2.
FROM DAZN: Paul's rise through boxing's landscape from showman novelty to potential contender speaks arguably more to his broad appeal beyond the sport's usual fanbase. But he has frequently proven he can talk the talk, even though his choice of opponents are yet to represent higher-tier tests. His win over a 58 year-old Tyson, regardless of format, is something he will be able to carry with him across the rest of his career, no matter how long it lives on beyond this.
Chavez, who has fought the likes of Canelo Alvarez, Daniel Jacobs, Brian Vera, Sergio Martinez, Andy Lee and Marco Antonio Rubio, does not see any kind of situation that will have him watching Paul’s hand be raised in victory following 10 rounds of action. So much so that Chavez Jr does not even foresee Paul being able to land his vaunted overhand right. “I don’t think he could catch me with the right hand,” Chavez Jr. said bluntly.
The battle-tested fighter realizes that Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) could land on the WBA and WBC cruiserweight rankings with a convincing win and subsequently chase a world title shot — and he wants to derail those plans, showing ‘The Problem Child’ that there are indeed levels to sweet science mastery. That said, upsetting Paul’s plans is still a lofty ambition.
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Weigh-in report for tonight's PPV from Anaheim, CA
Jake Paul returns to the ring tonight (Saturday) when he clashes with ex-middleweight title holder Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, live on DAZN pay-per-view. Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) did not get a stoppage win over Mike Tyson in November but did defeat the legend on points. Chavez Jr. (54-6-1 with 1 no contest, 34 KOs) [has not competed diligently for years but] last produced a unanimous decision win over Uriah Hall last July. The undercard also sees a superb contest as Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez and ex-champ Yuniel Dorticos clash, with Zurdo's unified cruiserweight titles on the line. Also on the bill Holly Holm and Yolanda Vega meet, and Floyd Schofield and Tevin Farmer go at it.
Here are the boxers' weights for the featured fights:
WBC / WBO cruiserweight championship
Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez 199.8 pounds vs. Yuniel Dorticos 198.6;
Main event - ten rounds
Jake Paul - 199.4 vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr - 198.4;
Floyd Schofield Jr. 134.8 vs. Tevin Farmer 135; and
Raul Curiel 146.4 vs. Victor Rodriguez 145.2.
FROM DAZN: Paul's rise through boxing's landscape from showman novelty to potential contender speaks arguably more to his broad appeal beyond the sport's usual fanbase. But he has frequently proven he can talk the talk, even though his choice of opponents are yet to represent higher-tier tests. His win over a 58 year-old Tyson, regardless of format, is something he will be able to carry with him across the rest of his career, no matter how long it lives on beyond this.
Chavez, who has fought the likes of Canelo Alvarez, Daniel Jacobs, Brian Vera, Sergio Martinez, Andy Lee and Marco Antonio Rubio, does not see any kind of situation that will have him watching Paul’s hand be raised in victory following 10 rounds of action. So much so that Chavez Jr does not even foresee Paul being able to land his vaunted overhand right. “I don’t think he could catch me with the right hand,” Chavez Jr. said bluntly.
The battle-tested fighter realizes that Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) could land on the WBA and WBC cruiserweight rankings with a convincing win and subsequently chase a world title shot — and he wants to derail those plans, showing ‘The Problem Child’ that there are indeed levels to sweet science mastery. That said, upsetting Paul’s plans is still a lofty ambition.
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Mbilli may be the world's best super middleweight |
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Christian Mbilli TKO1 Maciej Sulecki ... Montreal-based powerhouse Christian Mbilli captured the WBC interim super middleweight title on Friday with a first-round technical knockout against Poland's Maciej Sulecki at Videotron Centre in Quebec City. Mbilli (32-0 including the World Series of Boxing) marched forward from the opening bell, backing up Sulecki (33-4, 13 KOs) with short jabs to the head and body. Ninety seconds in, he caught Sulecki with a pair of counter rights. Mbilli pinned him to the ropes again, landing a right and left hook to the body. Sulecki tried to smother him, but Mbilli created space with his lead forearm before a right uppercut sent him to the canvas. Referee Michael Griffin waved it off at 2:28 as Sulecki rose on shaky legs.
Mbilli said, “I feel great. I feel very satisfied with my victory. The emotions are still settling, but I’m very happy. I was expecting everything. I told myself that with every opportunity, he would pay for it. I knew that every time he’d leave an opening, I’d take advantage of it. I’m going home to sit down with my team, and we’ll see what happens next. I think there will be some negotiations for an upcoming fight, but in any case, I’m ready for anyone.”
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Mbilli may be the world's best super middleweight
Christian Mbilli TKO1 Maciej Sulecki ... Montreal-based powerhouse Christian Mbilli captured the WBC interim super middleweight title on Friday with a first-round technical knockout against Poland's Maciej Sulecki at Videotron Centre in Quebec City. Mbilli (32-0 including the World Series of Boxing) marched forward from the opening bell, backing up Sulecki (33-4, 13 KOs) with short jabs to the head and body. Ninety seconds in, he caught Sulecki with a pair of counter rights. Mbilli pinned him to the ropes again, landing a right and left hook to the body. Sulecki tried to smother him, but Mbilli created space with his lead forearm before a right uppercut sent him to the canvas. Referee Michael Griffin waved it off at 2:28 as Sulecki rose on shaky legs.
Mbilli said, “I feel great. I feel very satisfied with my victory. The emotions are still settling, but I’m very happy. I was expecting everything. I told myself that with every opportunity, he would pay for it. I knew that every time he’d leave an opening, I’d take advantage of it. I’m going home to sit down with my team, and we’ll see what happens next. I think there will be some negotiations for an upcoming fight, but in any case, I’m ready for anyone.”
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Wilder needs seven rounds to stop Herndon |
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Deontay Wilder TKO7 Tyrrell Herndon... Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder made a winning comeback in Wichita, Kansas on Friday against a low-level opponent, Tyrrell Herndon. Wilder was fighting for the first time since getting knocked about by Zhilei Zhang a little more than a year ago. Wilder scored a second-round knockdown, although Herndon got up quickly and did not appear to be seriously hurt. In the seventh round, Wilder landed a big punch that moved Herndon backwards. The referee quickly stepped in with Herndon protesting the stoppage immediately.
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Wilder needs seven rounds to stop Herndon
Deontay Wilder TKO7 Tyrrell Herndon... Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder made a winning comeback in Wichita, Kansas on Friday against a low-level opponent, Tyrrell Herndon. Wilder was fighting for the first time since getting knocked about by Zhilei Zhang a little more than a year ago. Wilder scored a second-round knockdown, although Herndon got up quickly and did not appear to be seriously hurt. In the seventh round, Wilder landed a big punch that moved Herndon backwards. The referee quickly stepped in with Herndon protesting the stoppage immediately.
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