Benavidez: "a win would put me in the same conversations as the greats" |
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Undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and unified WBA / WBO cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, himsel fa two-division champion, went face to face Thursday at the final press conference before they square off on a PBC pay-per-view event this Saturday, May 2nd at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The first Mexico vs. Mexico championship fight above 168 pounds, this cruiserweight clash presents Benavidez with the opportunity to become a three-division world champion, while Mexico’s first cruiserweight champion Ramirez can add a signature victory to his already impressive resume. The press conference also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including WBA super middleweight champion Armando “Toro” Resendiz and former junior middleweight champion Jaime Munguia, who square off in the co-feature.
Also appearing at the press event were junior welterweights Oscar Duarte and Angel “Tashiro” Fierro, who battle in a twelve-round attraction, unbeaten Mexicans Jorge Chavez and Jose “Tito” Sanchez, who face off in a ten-round super bantamweight tilt and undefeated Mexican Isaac “Puro México” Lucero who will battle Ismael Flores over ten junior middleweight rounds opening the show at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Prior to the pay-per-view, a three-fight First on Prime lineup will be headlined by super middleweight Daniel Blancas facing veteran Raul Salomon in a streaming presentation that begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT live and for free on Prime Video. Tickets are on sale now through AXS.com.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from MGM Grand in Las Vegas:
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“First of all, I want to give the thanks to God, because without him, none of this is possible. I want to give a big shout out to Zurdo Ramirez, Sampson Lewkowicz, Al Heymon, Luis DeCubas Jr., PBC and Golden Boy.
“I'm very excited for this. I've been training extremely hard. I got five months training in this training camp because I knew Zurdo Ramirez is a great fighter. He's a great champion. We did a lot of rounds with him back then, and I know he's gonna come to fight, you know, big respects to all these guys over here.
“With that being said, it's time to go to war. And when David Benavidez goes to war, he doesn't shy away from anything. When I see the fire, I put myself in the fire to get the best version out of myself, and I'm not scared of nobody.
“You guys will see what the Mexican Monster is made of this May 2. Thank you so much.”
Q: David, you're going into this fight, you just spoke about how you both have had experiences over the years. You helped get him ready for several fights. You talked about the legendary sparring sessions. Obviously, I'm sure you guys are both very different fighters from the moments you had those firing sessions, but is there anything that you take away from those sessions, going into this fight?
“Yes, I definitely took a lot away from those more sessions, you know? But, you know what? If that gets thrown out the window, I'm gonna be ready to deal with anything that comes my way. That's what comes with being a great champion. At the end of the day, it’s going to be a great fight, and everybody who's watching is going to get the money's worth.”
Q: This is a very special week, and you've talked about, you've wanted that mantle to be the face of boxing, and now you are headlining your first Cinco de Mayo weekend. Talk about how special is it, because we know in boxing's history books, how important this weekend is.
“It is definitely really important, and I think just both of us having a fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend is something that we've been both working for a long, long time for. We're both blessed, you know what I mean? We both knew we were gonna get this fight back then, and this is both of our first times fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend, so we both did our jobs. He captured titles and cruiserweight. I captured titles and light heavyweight and it was just perfect timing. I'm just very excited to be here. I'm very excited to headline, my first Cinco de Mayo with my friend Zurdo Ramirez.”
Q: David, how does becoming a three-division world champion feel? What would that mean to your legacy?
“That just catapults me into the same category as the greats. You know, it's very hard to become world champion. It's very hard to become world champion in two weight classes. So, three weight classes would put me in the same conversations as the greats. At the end of the day, um, I want to keep giving the fans what they want to see, the best fights, and keep winning world titles to solidify my legacy.”
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ
“I'm blessed to be here. Thank you, Team Benavidez. Thank you, Golden Boy. Don’t miss the fight. We will represent really well this weekend.”
Q: Benavidez is making this move up 25 pounds to go to the cruiserweight limit. Do you believe he is taking on more than he should be fighting you?
“No, I think he's ready for the division. That’s why he moved up.”
Q: Obviously, you're the champion. He's the one coming up in weight, but the odds show, you're the underdog. Do you feel a little disrespected by that, or what's your thoughts going into this fight where the odds have you as the underdog?
“I’m the champ. I don't feel disrespect. I just train hard to put a great show to prove myself and prepare to be still champion.”
Q: David has said he is going to test your body. He's going to test your chin, and he's gonna test your soul. How do you respond to that?
“He will try, and I will try, I will do it, too. Saturday, everyone will see us.”
ARMANDO RESENDIZ
“I want to thank my team, my coach, Manny Robles, my manager, Jesse Rodriguez and everybody that made it possible for me to be as prepared as I am for May 2, even through the tough training sessions, and tough sparring that I go through.
There's gonna be a war on May 2nd. I guarantee you that. It's gonna be a great show and, God willing, I'm gonna come out with a win as well.”
Q: Armando, you have said you have much respect for Mungia. Do you feel an obligation, with both of you being Mexicans from the Pacific Coast, to deliver a show here on Cinco de Mayo weekend?
“Absolutely it's a big responsibility, the commitment on my part, to be able to give the fans the kind of show that they deserve. And that's what's going to happen on Saturday night.”
Q: You obviously came away with one of the biggest upsets last year as the world champion with the huge upset, defeating former champion, Caleb Plant. How do you prove to everyone that wasn't just a one-night performance, and that you are here to stay at the top of the division?
“I know they think that. It’s about putting in the work. God willing, we're able to go out there, execute the game plan, and with that discipline, be able to come out with a win, simple as that.”
JAIME MUNGUIA
“Thank you for being here. I want to thank God for this opportunity, and I'm blessed to have the support of the Team Canelo, Eddie Reynoso and my father, who is also here.
“What I can tell you is that Tijuana is gonna have a new world champion this Saturday night, and it's gonna be an amazing fight.”
Q: Jaime, you are someone that has encountered adversity, and you came out the other end victorious. You bounced back from your loss to Bruno Sarace, and you rectified that last year with the decision. When you said yesterday that we're going to see a new Jaime Munguia.
“I've gotten over the hump. To be honest with you, when I had that rematch (with Sarace), I was nervous because it was the uncertainty of not knowing what could happen. But now I'm renewed. The toughest part is over, and I'm ready to show you this new facet of mine.”
Q: What challenges does Resendiz present to you?
“It's certainly a really big challenge against a young, hungry fighter just like me. And I respect that a lot. So, what I want is for us to be able to give the fans the fight that they deserve. And that's what I'm looking for.”
OSCAR DUARTE
“I'm so thankful to be here standing in front of all of you. I think this is gonna be possibly the card of the year, because it's that outstanding. The fans are gonna be the real winners of the night because we're all gonna put on a show.
“I couldn't help but think about how far I've come from the tough training sessions that I've had, the way that we train so well with Robert Garcia, having to cut weight, and everything we had to do in order to be in optimal condition for this fight. Now, it's just time to give the fans the show that they deserve, to be ready for May 2, and I'm blessed to do it.”
Q: Oscar, what is Fierro going to find out when he steps into the ring with you Saturday night?
“I'm pumped up, because Angel is someone that likes to brawl and is someone who represents a really good fight. I'm excited for that, but I'm only relying on myself, really, because I know I had a great preparation. In fact, this training camp was preceded by the one I had before, when the fight was postponed, so I couldn't be more ready. I'm ready to show who I am.”
ANGEL FIERRO
“Thank you so much for being here. I want to thank God for the opportunity. Also, thanks to PBC, my team, everybody that made it happen.
“What I can tell you is that I'm here to be better than ever and to come out with the win on Saturday, to clean up my name and put Tijuana's name on the very top. You're gonna see a show on Saturday night. Let's go Tijuana!”
Q: Angel, you have a tremendous opportunity in front of you, fighting Duarte. What do you need to do in order to be the man that has his hands raised in T Mobile Arena?
“It's just about being able to show that I'm up to the task. People have seen the good and the bad from me, so all I have to do is be able to make weight tomorrow, then go after it in the fight. God willing, I'm going to be able to bring the win back to Tijuana.”
JORGE CHAVEZ
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for this opportunity. I want to thank everybody who has put their dues into making this event happen. Golden Boy, PBC, DAZN, Prime Video. Thank you guys for having us here.
“Shout out to my team, Abraham Perez with SOA Boxing and my head coach, Hector Lopez, with TKO Boxing. I expect a great event. It's not very often that you guys get a stacked card of Mexicans, so expect war out there. Expect there to be fireworks. It's a blessing to be here on Cinco de Mayo weekend, Let's get it, mi gente!”
Q: Jorge, what’s it like to be a part of a card like this against Jose Sanchez?
“It means everything to me. I'm trying to level up and fight the best of the best in my division, and this is another little hill I need to go over, just to see what's on the other side for me.”
JOSE “TITO” SANCHEZ
“I want to thank my promoter, Golden Boy, and, of course, PBC for having me here. I feel ready to perform on May 2 and give you guys what you guys paid for. Of course, it'll be that Mexican-style war fight, and we're ready for anything.”
Q: Jose, both of you are unbeaten, what's gonna be the key difference in this fight to come out on top?
“I believe just the hard work I did at the gym, the preparation I did at training camp. All the extra miles we did, all that hard sparring we did with different opponents. And that's the key for this fight.”
ISAAC LUCERO
“I'm really blessed to be on such a great card with so many amazing champions. I can tell you this win is going to be mine.
“I want to thank Sampson Boxing, PBC, Bob Santos and everybody that was able to make this fight happen. So, let's do it!”
“Give me a shot to prove myself. Let me show you how much I've grown and how I deserve to be a part of these kinds of cards from now on. That's what I'm gonna do. That is the statement I want to make.”
ISMAEL FLORES
“I really appreciate this opportunity. This is a dream come true for me, something that I have envisioned for so long. So now I'm here to make the most of it and come out with a win on Saturday night. May 2 is going to be my night.”
Q: Ismail, you took this fight on short notice, and you are making your U.S. debut. Why did you want to jump at this opportunity against Isaac Lucero?
“The issue wasn't tough at all, because we knew that we had to come here for an opportunity that we just couldn't pass it up. We're gonna give it our all. We're gonna make our preparation worth it.
“This is the kind of opportunity that opens up a lot of doors for us. So hopefully, that's the case.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman & CEO of Golden Boy Promotions
“Golden Boy is so thankful to all partners involved, including Amazon, DAZN, Sampson Boxing, PBC and TGB. We worked really hard to put an amazing night of Mexico versus Mexico matchups that will keep fans entertained from the opening bell.
“We are very proud to be here in Las Vegas, once again, presenting an amazing card on such an amazing weekend for boxing. Cinco de Mayo: the tradition and its glory... what brings us all together is not only this special date, but these special fighters who are here on the podium, their willingness to fight each other and the willingness to really be the very best.
“You've heard me in the past saying all the time, the best must fight the very best, and this is the epitome of that. We feel that Cinco de Mayo weekend, a Mexico versus Mexico showdown will be an amazing, amazing event for everyone who wants to celebrate and just have a great time here in Las Vegas and in the U.S. celebrating Cinco de Mayo.
“Pride, heart and legacy. This is where boxing's biggest stage and Cinco de Mayo weekend come together. When Mexican and Mexican-American fighters step into the ring, they carry not just belts, but the weight of their culture and the generations before them.
“From Julio Caesar Chavez in the '90s, to myself, making it global, this weekend became sacred in boxing. And now, it continues with David Benavidez versus Zurdo Ramirez, a Mexico versus Mexican-American showdown, that's about more than a fight. It's history, it's identity.
“Zurdo is no stranger to making history. It's in his DNA. Today, he is a unified world champion, having stepped into enemy territory to secure his belts. Benavidez is fighting to become a three-division world champion.
“This will be a fight of the year candidate. This is a guaranteed war, mark by words.”
SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ, Sampson Boxing
“Cinco de Mayo, we have a history, like Julio Cesar Chavez, and the great Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar took this weekend over. Oscar did something spectacular to make this fight happen.
“Now we have Cinco de Mayo, MGM, T-Mobile, it will be spectacular, not only for that, because these two fighters fight everyone. They took the fight with no hesitation. They talked about this fight when they were young.
“I don’t want to mention names, but I have no choice. We're not trying to fight, fighters that will not win that night. Like, in this case, Cinco de Mayo, even though he was the last one, in Saudi Arabia, Canelo, I believe he lost, and he passed the torch to the winner of this Saturday. I guarantee you that this winner will be the new face of boxing and Canelo will be the end of the story, because he didn't fight the best. Thank you very much.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“This is such a great event. Fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend is every Mexican fighter’s desire.
“Boxing fans have come to always expect Cinco de Mayo weekend to give them the best and biggest fights of the year. At the opening press conference, Oscar touched a little bit on the history of fighting on this date, going back to the early '90s with Julio Cesar Chavez, and then we moved into the Golden Boy era, where Oscar really cemented the tradition and put this date as a staple on the boxing schedule.
“There hasn't been a Cinco de Mayo fight here since 2024, and we promoted that fight, but now, Cinco de Mayo weekend is back and is back bigger than ever. We have a star-studded lineup of Mexico versus Mexico showdowns.
“And then, of course, the main event, Benavidez versus Zurdo, Mexico versus Mexico. I believe that this is gonna be a fight of the year, and I say this with all due respect to Zurdo Ramirez, I believe David Benavidez is gonna have a spectacular win on Saturday night. I believe he'll take this date over for many years to come.”
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Benavidez: "a win would put me in the same conversations as the greats"
Undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and unified WBA / WBO cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, himsel fa two-division champion, went face to face Thursday at the final press conference before they square off on a PBC pay-per-view event this Saturday, May 2nd at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The first Mexico vs. Mexico championship fight above 168 pounds, this cruiserweight clash presents Benavidez with the opportunity to become a three-division world champion, while Mexico’s first cruiserweight champion Ramirez can add a signature victory to his already impressive resume. The press conference also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including WBA super middleweight champion Armando “Toro” Resendiz and former junior middleweight champion Jaime Munguia, who square off in the co-feature.
Also appearing at the press event were junior welterweights Oscar Duarte and Angel “Tashiro” Fierro, who battle in a twelve-round attraction, unbeaten Mexicans Jorge Chavez and Jose “Tito” Sanchez, who face off in a ten-round super bantamweight tilt and undefeated Mexican Isaac “Puro México” Lucero who will battle Ismael Flores over ten junior middleweight rounds opening the show at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Prior to the pay-per-view, a three-fight First on Prime lineup will be headlined by super middleweight Daniel Blancas facing veteran Raul Salomon in a streaming presentation that begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT live and for free on Prime Video. Tickets are on sale now through AXS.com.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from MGM Grand in Las Vegas:
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“First of all, I want to give the thanks to God, because without him, none of this is possible. I want to give a big shout out to Zurdo Ramirez, Sampson Lewkowicz, Al Heymon, Luis DeCubas Jr., PBC and Golden Boy.
“I'm very excited for this. I've been training extremely hard. I got five months training in this training camp because I knew Zurdo Ramirez is a great fighter. He's a great champion. We did a lot of rounds with him back then, and I know he's gonna come to fight, you know, big respects to all these guys over here.
“With that being said, it's time to go to war. And when David Benavidez goes to war, he doesn't shy away from anything. When I see the fire, I put myself in the fire to get the best version out of myself, and I'm not scared of nobody.
“You guys will see what the Mexican Monster is made of this May 2. Thank you so much.”
Q: David, you're going into this fight, you just spoke about how you both have had experiences over the years. You helped get him ready for several fights. You talked about the legendary sparring sessions. Obviously, I'm sure you guys are both very different fighters from the moments you had those firing sessions, but is there anything that you take away from those sessions, going into this fight?
“Yes, I definitely took a lot away from those more sessions, you know? But, you know what? If that gets thrown out the window, I'm gonna be ready to deal with anything that comes my way. That's what comes with being a great champion. At the end of the day, it’s going to be a great fight, and everybody who's watching is going to get the money's worth.”
Q: This is a very special week, and you've talked about, you've wanted that mantle to be the face of boxing, and now you are headlining your first Cinco de Mayo weekend. Talk about how special is it, because we know in boxing's history books, how important this weekend is.
“It is definitely really important, and I think just both of us having a fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend is something that we've been both working for a long, long time for. We're both blessed, you know what I mean? We both knew we were gonna get this fight back then, and this is both of our first times fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend, so we both did our jobs. He captured titles and cruiserweight. I captured titles and light heavyweight and it was just perfect timing. I'm just very excited to be here. I'm very excited to headline, my first Cinco de Mayo with my friend Zurdo Ramirez.”
Q: David, how does becoming a three-division world champion feel? What would that mean to your legacy?
“That just catapults me into the same category as the greats. You know, it's very hard to become world champion. It's very hard to become world champion in two weight classes. So, three weight classes would put me in the same conversations as the greats. At the end of the day, um, I want to keep giving the fans what they want to see, the best fights, and keep winning world titles to solidify my legacy.”
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ
“I'm blessed to be here. Thank you, Team Benavidez. Thank you, Golden Boy. Don’t miss the fight. We will represent really well this weekend.”
Q: Benavidez is making this move up 25 pounds to go to the cruiserweight limit. Do you believe he is taking on more than he should be fighting you?
“No, I think he's ready for the division. That’s why he moved up.”
Q: Obviously, you're the champion. He's the one coming up in weight, but the odds show, you're the underdog. Do you feel a little disrespected by that, or what's your thoughts going into this fight where the odds have you as the underdog?
“I’m the champ. I don't feel disrespect. I just train hard to put a great show to prove myself and prepare to be still champion.”
Q: David has said he is going to test your body. He's going to test your chin, and he's gonna test your soul. How do you respond to that?
“He will try, and I will try, I will do it, too. Saturday, everyone will see us.”
ARMANDO RESENDIZ
“I want to thank my team, my coach, Manny Robles, my manager, Jesse Rodriguez and everybody that made it possible for me to be as prepared as I am for May 2, even through the tough training sessions, and tough sparring that I go through.
There's gonna be a war on May 2nd. I guarantee you that. It's gonna be a great show and, God willing, I'm gonna come out with a win as well.”
Q: Armando, you have said you have much respect for Mungia. Do you feel an obligation, with both of you being Mexicans from the Pacific Coast, to deliver a show here on Cinco de Mayo weekend?
“Absolutely it's a big responsibility, the commitment on my part, to be able to give the fans the kind of show that they deserve. And that's what's going to happen on Saturday night.”
Q: You obviously came away with one of the biggest upsets last year as the world champion with the huge upset, defeating former champion, Caleb Plant. How do you prove to everyone that wasn't just a one-night performance, and that you are here to stay at the top of the division?
“I know they think that. It’s about putting in the work. God willing, we're able to go out there, execute the game plan, and with that discipline, be able to come out with a win, simple as that.”
JAIME MUNGUIA
“Thank you for being here. I want to thank God for this opportunity, and I'm blessed to have the support of the Team Canelo, Eddie Reynoso and my father, who is also here.
“What I can tell you is that Tijuana is gonna have a new world champion this Saturday night, and it's gonna be an amazing fight.”
Q: Jaime, you are someone that has encountered adversity, and you came out the other end victorious. You bounced back from your loss to Bruno Sarace, and you rectified that last year with the decision. When you said yesterday that we're going to see a new Jaime Munguia.
“I've gotten over the hump. To be honest with you, when I had that rematch (with Sarace), I was nervous because it was the uncertainty of not knowing what could happen. But now I'm renewed. The toughest part is over, and I'm ready to show you this new facet of mine.”
Q: What challenges does Resendiz present to you?
“It's certainly a really big challenge against a young, hungry fighter just like me. And I respect that a lot. So, what I want is for us to be able to give the fans the fight that they deserve. And that's what I'm looking for.”
OSCAR DUARTE
“I'm so thankful to be here standing in front of all of you. I think this is gonna be possibly the card of the year, because it's that outstanding. The fans are gonna be the real winners of the night because we're all gonna put on a show.
“I couldn't help but think about how far I've come from the tough training sessions that I've had, the way that we train so well with Robert Garcia, having to cut weight, and everything we had to do in order to be in optimal condition for this fight. Now, it's just time to give the fans the show that they deserve, to be ready for May 2, and I'm blessed to do it.”
Q: Oscar, what is Fierro going to find out when he steps into the ring with you Saturday night?
“I'm pumped up, because Angel is someone that likes to brawl and is someone who represents a really good fight. I'm excited for that, but I'm only relying on myself, really, because I know I had a great preparation. In fact, this training camp was preceded by the one I had before, when the fight was postponed, so I couldn't be more ready. I'm ready to show who I am.”
ANGEL FIERRO
“Thank you so much for being here. I want to thank God for the opportunity. Also, thanks to PBC, my team, everybody that made it happen.
“What I can tell you is that I'm here to be better than ever and to come out with the win on Saturday, to clean up my name and put Tijuana's name on the very top. You're gonna see a show on Saturday night. Let's go Tijuana!”
Q: Angel, you have a tremendous opportunity in front of you, fighting Duarte. What do you need to do in order to be the man that has his hands raised in T Mobile Arena?
“It's just about being able to show that I'm up to the task. People have seen the good and the bad from me, so all I have to do is be able to make weight tomorrow, then go after it in the fight. God willing, I'm going to be able to bring the win back to Tijuana.”
JORGE CHAVEZ
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for this opportunity. I want to thank everybody who has put their dues into making this event happen. Golden Boy, PBC, DAZN, Prime Video. Thank you guys for having us here.
“Shout out to my team, Abraham Perez with SOA Boxing and my head coach, Hector Lopez, with TKO Boxing. I expect a great event. It's not very often that you guys get a stacked card of Mexicans, so expect war out there. Expect there to be fireworks. It's a blessing to be here on Cinco de Mayo weekend, Let's get it, mi gente!”
Q: Jorge, what’s it like to be a part of a card like this against Jose Sanchez?
“It means everything to me. I'm trying to level up and fight the best of the best in my division, and this is another little hill I need to go over, just to see what's on the other side for me.”
JOSE “TITO” SANCHEZ
“I want to thank my promoter, Golden Boy, and, of course, PBC for having me here. I feel ready to perform on May 2 and give you guys what you guys paid for. Of course, it'll be that Mexican-style war fight, and we're ready for anything.”
Q: Jose, both of you are unbeaten, what's gonna be the key difference in this fight to come out on top?
“I believe just the hard work I did at the gym, the preparation I did at training camp. All the extra miles we did, all that hard sparring we did with different opponents. And that's the key for this fight.”
ISAAC LUCERO
“I'm really blessed to be on such a great card with so many amazing champions. I can tell you this win is going to be mine.
“I want to thank Sampson Boxing, PBC, Bob Santos and everybody that was able to make this fight happen. So, let's do it!”
“Give me a shot to prove myself. Let me show you how much I've grown and how I deserve to be a part of these kinds of cards from now on. That's what I'm gonna do. That is the statement I want to make.”
ISMAEL FLORES
“I really appreciate this opportunity. This is a dream come true for me, something that I have envisioned for so long. So now I'm here to make the most of it and come out with a win on Saturday night. May 2 is going to be my night.”
Q: Ismail, you took this fight on short notice, and you are making your U.S. debut. Why did you want to jump at this opportunity against Isaac Lucero?
“The issue wasn't tough at all, because we knew that we had to come here for an opportunity that we just couldn't pass it up. We're gonna give it our all. We're gonna make our preparation worth it.
“This is the kind of opportunity that opens up a lot of doors for us. So hopefully, that's the case.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman & CEO of Golden Boy Promotions
“Golden Boy is so thankful to all partners involved, including Amazon, DAZN, Sampson Boxing, PBC and TGB. We worked really hard to put an amazing night of Mexico versus Mexico matchups that will keep fans entertained from the opening bell.
“We are very proud to be here in Las Vegas, once again, presenting an amazing card on such an amazing weekend for boxing. Cinco de Mayo: the tradition and its glory... what brings us all together is not only this special date, but these special fighters who are here on the podium, their willingness to fight each other and the willingness to really be the very best.
“You've heard me in the past saying all the time, the best must fight the very best, and this is the epitome of that. We feel that Cinco de Mayo weekend, a Mexico versus Mexico showdown will be an amazing, amazing event for everyone who wants to celebrate and just have a great time here in Las Vegas and in the U.S. celebrating Cinco de Mayo.
“Pride, heart and legacy. This is where boxing's biggest stage and Cinco de Mayo weekend come together. When Mexican and Mexican-American fighters step into the ring, they carry not just belts, but the weight of their culture and the generations before them.
“From Julio Caesar Chavez in the '90s, to myself, making it global, this weekend became sacred in boxing. And now, it continues with David Benavidez versus Zurdo Ramirez, a Mexico versus Mexican-American showdown, that's about more than a fight. It's history, it's identity.
“Zurdo is no stranger to making history. It's in his DNA. Today, he is a unified world champion, having stepped into enemy territory to secure his belts. Benavidez is fighting to become a three-division world champion.
“This will be a fight of the year candidate. This is a guaranteed war, mark by words.”
SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ, Sampson Boxing
“Cinco de Mayo, we have a history, like Julio Cesar Chavez, and the great Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar took this weekend over. Oscar did something spectacular to make this fight happen.
“Now we have Cinco de Mayo, MGM, T-Mobile, it will be spectacular, not only for that, because these two fighters fight everyone. They took the fight with no hesitation. They talked about this fight when they were young.
“I don’t want to mention names, but I have no choice. We're not trying to fight, fighters that will not win that night. Like, in this case, Cinco de Mayo, even though he was the last one, in Saudi Arabia, Canelo, I believe he lost, and he passed the torch to the winner of this Saturday. I guarantee you that this winner will be the new face of boxing and Canelo will be the end of the story, because he didn't fight the best. Thank you very much.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“This is such a great event. Fighting on Cinco de Mayo weekend is every Mexican fighter’s desire.
“Boxing fans have come to always expect Cinco de Mayo weekend to give them the best and biggest fights of the year. At the opening press conference, Oscar touched a little bit on the history of fighting on this date, going back to the early '90s with Julio Cesar Chavez, and then we moved into the Golden Boy era, where Oscar really cemented the tradition and put this date as a staple on the boxing schedule.
“There hasn't been a Cinco de Mayo fight here since 2024, and we promoted that fight, but now, Cinco de Mayo weekend is back and is back bigger than ever. We have a star-studded lineup of Mexico versus Mexico showdowns.
“And then, of course, the main event, Benavidez versus Zurdo, Mexico versus Mexico. I believe that this is gonna be a fight of the year, and I say this with all due respect to Zurdo Ramirez, I believe David Benavidez is gonna have a spectacular win on Saturday night. I believe he'll take this date over for many years to come.”
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Biggest fight in Japanese history set for Saturday |
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You could hear a pin drop at the Tokyo Dome Hotel during the official press conference for the super fight titled “The Day.” Attended by 200 plus media representatives and various television networks, as undisputed world super bantamweight champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue and challenger Junto Nakatani, himself a three-division champion, stood toe to toe, face to face and head to head, ahead of their Epic Clash this Saturday. Both fighters displayed absolute cool confidence. “I am in my very best physical and mental condition; I will be victorious this Saturday,” each protagonist, declared, before the event, which has already posted a “Sold Out” sign for the Tokyo Dome, with a capacity of 55,000 spectators. Inoue enters this blockbuster as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. In 2014, he captured the WBC light flyweight title by knocking out Adrián Hernández and is now a four-division champion. After becoming the undisputed bantamweight champion in 2022 and repeating the feat at 122 pounds in 2023, to place himself in the elite, Inoue seeks to reaffirm his absolute dominance.
Nakatani represents by far the most serious threat in the “Monster’s” career path. Nakatani, a former flyweight and super flyweight champion, comes off an impressive run in the bantamweight division, where he captured the WBC title in February 2024 by knocking out Alexandro Santiago. After four successful defenses, Nakatani has vacated his crown to move up in weight and take on Inoue. Analysis among the international press, highlights and underlines the glaring contrast in styles: Inoue’s power and adjustment capabilities versus Nakatani’s advantages in height, and southpaw stance. it’s going to be a classic to remember for generations.
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Biggest fight in Japanese history set for Saturday
You could hear a pin drop at the Tokyo Dome Hotel during the official press conference for the super fight titled “The Day.” Attended by 200 plus media representatives and various television networks, as undisputed world super bantamweight champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue and challenger Junto Nakatani, himself a three-division champion, stood toe to toe, face to face and head to head, ahead of their Epic Clash this Saturday. Both fighters displayed absolute cool confidence. “I am in my very best physical and mental condition; I will be victorious this Saturday,” each protagonist, declared, before the event, which has already posted a “Sold Out” sign for the Tokyo Dome, with a capacity of 55,000 spectators. Inoue enters this blockbuster as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. In 2014, he captured the WBC light flyweight title by knocking out Adrián Hernández and is now a four-division champion. After becoming the undisputed bantamweight champion in 2022 and repeating the feat at 122 pounds in 2023, to place himself in the elite, Inoue seeks to reaffirm his absolute dominance.
Nakatani represents by far the most serious threat in the “Monster’s” career path. Nakatani, a former flyweight and super flyweight champion, comes off an impressive run in the bantamweight division, where he captured the WBC title in February 2024 by knocking out Alexandro Santiago. After four successful defenses, Nakatani has vacated his crown to move up in weight and take on Inoue. Analysis among the international press, highlights and underlines the glaring contrast in styles: Inoue’s power and adjustment capabilities versus Nakatani’s advantages in height, and southpaw stance. it’s going to be a classic to remember for generations.
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ProBox comes to Maryland on Friday |
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On Friday, May 1st, ProBox Promotions and NoXcuse Promotions will present a night of boxing featuring undefeated junior lightweight Tsendbaatar “Chinggis Khaan” Erdenebat (14-0, 6 KOs) of Mongolia taking on Cobia Breedy (18-1, 8 KOs) of nearby Largo, Maryland, in a ten-round main event from the Live! Casino Hotel in Hanover, Maryland. It will be broadcast live on ProBox TV (7:00 pm EDT/4:00 pm PDT). In the ten-round co-feature in the same weight class, fan favorite “The Franchise” Francois Scarboro Jr. (13-0, 9 KOs) of Cheverly, Maryland will look to defend home turf against Nicaragua’s Maxwel Montes (13-4-1, 7 KOs). And in a supporting bout, 21 year-old Washington, DC-based welterweight David “The Bodysnatcher” Whitmire (11-0, 8 KOs) takes on his toughest test to date against Albuquerque veteran Jose Luis “Guerro” Sanchez (14-6-2, 4 KOs). Watch it all free this Friday night on Amazon, Fubo, Tubi, or Pluto TV.
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ProBox comes to Maryland on Friday
On Friday, May 1st, ProBox Promotions and NoXcuse Promotions will present a night of boxing featuring undefeated junior lightweight Tsendbaatar “Chinggis Khaan” Erdenebat (14-0, 6 KOs) of Mongolia taking on Cobia Breedy (18-1, 8 KOs) of nearby Largo, Maryland, in a ten-round main event from the Live! Casino Hotel in Hanover, Maryland. It will be broadcast live on ProBox TV (7:00 pm EDT/4:00 pm PDT). In the ten-round co-feature in the same weight class, fan favorite “The Franchise” Francois Scarboro Jr. (13-0, 9 KOs) of Cheverly, Maryland will look to defend home turf against Nicaragua’s Maxwel Montes (13-4-1, 7 KOs). And in a supporting bout, 21 year-old Washington, DC-based welterweight David “The Bodysnatcher” Whitmire (11-0, 8 KOs) takes on his toughest test to date against Albuquerque veteran Jose Luis “Guerro” Sanchez (14-6-2, 4 KOs). Watch it all free this Friday night on Amazon, Fubo, Tubi, or Pluto TV.
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Billam-Smith to host Rozicki on June 6th |
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Zuffa Boxing will stage its first event in the UK on Saturday June 6th when ex-champ Chris Billam-Smith (pictured) returns to his hometown to take on dangerous Canadian Ryan Rozicki in a cruiserweight clash at the Bournemouth International Centre, live on Sky Sports. Billam-Smith, 21-2 (13), is one of the most decorated British fighters in recent memory, having captured British, Commonwealth and European honours before winning a WBO world title in 2023. He has fought in Bournemouth eight times, including three sold-out events at the Bournemouth International Centre where he beat Isaac Chamberlain in a 12-round thriller and dispatched Armend Xhoxhaj with a stunning finish. After losing to Gilberto Ramirez in Saudi Arabia he came back to beat Brandon Glanton at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last year.
"I'm coming home. This is a huge opportunity for me back in front of my amazing supporters. Sky Sports know just how incredible these fight nights are in Bournemouth and this one will be no different," Billam-Smith said. "Zuffa Boxing is all about proper fights under the lights and that's exactly what Rozicki brings to the table."
Rozicki is a dangerous puncher himself, as his 21-1-1 with 20 KOs record suggests. The fighter from Sydney Forks, Canada has actually never lost at cruiserweight. His lone defeat came against Oscar Rivas in a bridgerweight bout in 2021. Since then, he is unbeaten in nine fights with seven stoppage wins.
A pro since 2016, 19 of Rozicki's knockouts have come in three rounds or less.
"It's a tough fight, and that's exactly what I wanted when I signed with Zuffa Boxing," Rozicki said of Billam-Smith.
"I know what he brings, and I respect that. But he hasn't been in there with someone like me. I'm focused on my work, taking it day by day, and I'll be ready on fight night. The fans are going to get a real fight."
Fans are encouraged to register their interest early for the best chance to secure tickets via ZuffaBoxing.com. Tickets will go on sale at 10am BST on Friday, May 8th via BIC.co.uk while those who registered their interest early, will get access at 10am BST on Thursday, May 7th.
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Billam-Smith to host Rozicki on June 6th
Zuffa Boxing will stage its first event in the UK on Saturday June 6th when ex-champ Chris Billam-Smith (pictured) returns to his hometown to take on dangerous Canadian Ryan Rozicki in a cruiserweight clash at the Bournemouth International Centre, live on Sky Sports. Billam-Smith, 21-2 (13), is one of the most decorated British fighters in recent memory, having captured British, Commonwealth and European honours before winning a WBO world title in 2023. He has fought in Bournemouth eight times, including three sold-out events at the Bournemouth International Centre where he beat Isaac Chamberlain in a 12-round thriller and dispatched Armend Xhoxhaj with a stunning finish. After losing to Gilberto Ramirez in Saudi Arabia he came back to beat Brandon Glanton at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last year.
"I'm coming home. This is a huge opportunity for me back in front of my amazing supporters. Sky Sports know just how incredible these fight nights are in Bournemouth and this one will be no different," Billam-Smith said. "Zuffa Boxing is all about proper fights under the lights and that's exactly what Rozicki brings to the table."
Rozicki is a dangerous puncher himself, as his 21-1-1 with 20 KOs record suggests. The fighter from Sydney Forks, Canada has actually never lost at cruiserweight. His lone defeat came against Oscar Rivas in a bridgerweight bout in 2021. Since then, he is unbeaten in nine fights with seven stoppage wins.
A pro since 2016, 19 of Rozicki's knockouts have come in three rounds or less.
"It's a tough fight, and that's exactly what I wanted when I signed with Zuffa Boxing," Rozicki said of Billam-Smith.
"I know what he brings, and I respect that. But he hasn't been in there with someone like me. I'm focused on my work, taking it day by day, and I'll be ready on fight night. The fans are going to get a real fight."
Fans are encouraged to register their interest early for the best chance to secure tickets via ZuffaBoxing.com. Tickets will go on sale at 10am BST on Friday, May 8th via BIC.co.uk while those who registered their interest early, will get access at 10am BST on Thursday, May 7th.
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Jalolov to face Smakici next week on Wardley-Dubois undercard |
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Bakhodir Jalolov will make his U.K. debut on May 9th on the undercard of Fabio Wardley’s WBO heavyweight title defense against Daniel Dubois at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, live on DAZN. The 31 year-old Uzbek, a two-time Olympic champion will face Croatian southpaw Agron Smakici (21-4 including IBA pro bouts). A professional since 2018, Jalolov has hardly been tested, but his run in the paid code has been interrupted on numerous occasions to focus on the Olympics where he earned gold in both 2020 and 2024. In Tokyo five years ago, Jalolov overcame current contenders, Frazer Clarke and Richard Torrez to grab the top prize before resuming his pro career. Jalolov is listed as 16-0 as a pro, but 20-2 is the more accurate record because he fought paid bouts in the World Series of Boxing and IBA pro series.
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Jalolov to face Smakici next week on Wardley-Dubois undercard
Bakhodir Jalolov will make his U.K. debut on May 9th on the undercard of Fabio Wardley’s WBO heavyweight title defense against Daniel Dubois at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, live on DAZN. The 31 year-old Uzbek, a two-time Olympic champion will face Croatian southpaw Agron Smakici (21-4 including IBA pro bouts). A professional since 2018, Jalolov has hardly been tested, but his run in the paid code has been interrupted on numerous occasions to focus on the Olympics where he earned gold in both 2020 and 2024. In Tokyo five years ago, Jalolov overcame current contenders, Frazer Clarke and Richard Torrez to grab the top prize before resuming his pro career. Jalolov is listed as 16-0 as a pro, but 20-2 is the more accurate record because he fought paid bouts in the World Series of Boxing and IBA pro series.
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Zurdo Ramirez: "I’m the champion and I’m gonna keep the belts" |
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Unified WBA /WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (pictured) and undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez kicked off fight week with a media workout before they square off in a first-of-its-kind Mexico vs. Mexico showdown headlining a PBC pay-per-view event this Saturday, May 2nd, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The reigning WBC / WBA light heavyweight champion, Benavidez can become the first fighter in history to win full world titles at 168, 175 and 200 pounds with a victory on Saturday, while Ramirez aims to become the first to defeat Benavidez and add a crowning Cinco de Mayo weekend moment to his career.
The workout also featured fighters competing on a stacked pay-per-view undercard full of high-octane Mexico vs. Mexico matchups, including WBA super middleweight monarch Armando “Toro” Resendiz and all-action former champion Jaime Munguia, who square off in the co-feature. Also participating in the workout ahead of PPV undercard bouts were junior welterweights Oscar Duarte and Angel “Tashiro” Fierro, who battle in a twelve-round attraction, unbeaten Mexican super bantamweights Jorge Chavez and Jose “Tito” Sanchez, who face off in a ten-round tilt and undefeated Isaac “Puro México” Lucero, who faces hard-hitting Ismael Flores in the ten-round junior middleweight opening attraction at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Tickets are on sale now through AXS.com.
In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the pay-per-view via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets, as well as PPV.com. Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand in Las Vegas:
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ
“It’s an honor to be here and I’m super excited. This is Cinco de Mayo. This is for all my Mexican people.
“I always knew this would be the kind of fight that people were going to want to see. When it finally came around, I was ready to do it.
“Every fight is tough and every fight is different. The only thing I know, is that on May 2nd we’re gonna make history.
“I’m the best. Zurdo mejor. I’m the champion and I’m gonna keep the belt[s]. We’re going to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a big party!”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“A win on Saturday lets me know that I’m fulfilling my destiny. I know that I’m gonna be an all-time great when it’s all said and done. I’m just gonna continue showing everyone that I’m the best in the world.
I’ve worked extremely hard for this. Five months of training camp. The only thing I’ve seen in my vision is victory. I’m gonna make sure you get your money’s worth on May 2.
“I’m a different type of fighter than everyone else. I’ve been fighting the best in the world again and again.
“Camp has been amazing. I’m very excited and ready to showcase my skills on Saturday night in front of all those fans.
“I’ve been on weight since last week. I’m gonna come in with a tremendous energy. I really can’t wait.”
ARMANDO RESENDIZ
“It’s simple. I just have to go out there, listen to my corner and enjoy every single minute of it. We’re gonna put on a show and give everyone a great night.
“This could not be more exciting for me. I’m the champ and it feels amazing. I’m enjoying the moment. That’s all you can do. Enjoy this and go for the win on Saturday night.
“Every single fight on this card is outstanding, but I know that my fight is gonna be very entertaining. The only goal is to go home with the belt in my arms.”
JAIME MUNGUIA
“I’ve been here before, but now you’re gonna see a more mature Jaime Munguia. I’m hungry and ready to take the title. We’re gonna put on a show on May 2.
“When two Mexican fighters are inside the ring, you get a great fight. This is no exception. You’re gonna see two warriors out there.
“We’re gonna go in there and look for the knockout. We’re gonna make this a spectacle and get the win.
“I promise that you’re gonna see Jaime Munguia as a two-time world champion on Saturday night. I’m gonna come out on top.”
OSCAR DUARTE
“I’m really proud to be part of this. There’s a long storied history of Mexican fighters competing here in Las Vegas and this card is chock full of fighters prime to make history as well. I’m here to show my best and let everyone know what I’m capable of.
“Fierro is an aggressive fighter, and so am I. The only way to neutralize his aggressiveness is for me to come forward and show him what I’m all about.
“I promise that I’m gonna give everyone a great fight. I’m ready for it.
“I’m here to face the best. I want to go up against the best that the 140-pound division has to offer, and one fighter in particular, Pitbull Cruz.”
ANGEL FIERRO
“I’m gonna go out there and put on a show like I always do. I’m gonna leave my blood, sweat and tears inside the ring. I’m doing this for Tijuana!
“I love being the underdog. I’m here to spoil the party. I gave everyone an amazing fight with Pitbull Cruz and I’m gonna do that again against Duarte.
“I’m here to steal the show. It’s hard to do with all the names on this card. It’s a tall task, but we’re gonna delight the fans and I’m gonna come out with a win.
“This is gonna put me on the doorstep to even bigger fights. I’m talking about world title opportunities. But the first thing is Duarte on Saturday night.”
JORGE CHAVEZ
“Training camp has been great. We’re preparing for a war and excited to perform on this tremendous card.
“I was better than ever in my last fight and fans can expect the same thing on Saturday. I’m gonna be the best version of myself.
“When I win, I want Naoya Inoue. I want to face the best. That’s the bottom line, and that all starts on Saturday night.
“You can expect no less than a war. You know the Mexicans are prime to deliver that.”
JOSE “TITO” SANCHEZ
“I’m really excited to be on a big Mexican style card like this. I’m extremely glad to be in this position.
“I’ve just been staying in camp with Joel Diaz. I’m always locked in and ready. I can’t wait to perform on Saturday.
“I think Benavidez is getting a stoppage in the main event for sure.”
ISAAC LUCERO
“My aim is to keep improving and be in position to go after bigger and better goals, like a world title. I just want to get better day in and day out.
“I’m a warrior above all. But I’m also going to listen to my corner, because I trust them. What I do in the gym is what sets me up for success.
“You can expect a true Cinco de Mayo battle on Saturday. This is gonna be all-out war. You’re not gonna want to miss it.
“I’m just focused on getting the win. Flores has his own goals, but I’m just focused on what I need to do to come out with my hand raised.”
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Zurdo Ramirez: "I’m the champion and I’m gonna keep the belts"
Unified WBA /WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (pictured) and undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez kicked off fight week with a media workout before they square off in a first-of-its-kind Mexico vs. Mexico showdown headlining a PBC pay-per-view event this Saturday, May 2nd, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The reigning WBC / WBA light heavyweight champion, Benavidez can become the first fighter in history to win full world titles at 168, 175 and 200 pounds with a victory on Saturday, while Ramirez aims to become the first to defeat Benavidez and add a crowning Cinco de Mayo weekend moment to his career.
The workout also featured fighters competing on a stacked pay-per-view undercard full of high-octane Mexico vs. Mexico matchups, including WBA super middleweight monarch Armando “Toro” Resendiz and all-action former champion Jaime Munguia, who square off in the co-feature. Also participating in the workout ahead of PPV undercard bouts were junior welterweights Oscar Duarte and Angel “Tashiro” Fierro, who battle in a twelve-round attraction, unbeaten Mexican super bantamweights Jorge Chavez and Jose “Tito” Sanchez, who face off in a ten-round tilt and undefeated Isaac “Puro México” Lucero, who faces hard-hitting Ismael Flores in the ten-round junior middleweight opening attraction at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Tickets are on sale now through AXS.com.
In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the pay-per-view via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets, as well as PPV.com. Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand in Las Vegas:
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ
“It’s an honor to be here and I’m super excited. This is Cinco de Mayo. This is for all my Mexican people.
“I always knew this would be the kind of fight that people were going to want to see. When it finally came around, I was ready to do it.
“Every fight is tough and every fight is different. The only thing I know, is that on May 2nd we’re gonna make history.
“I’m the best. Zurdo mejor. I’m the champion and I’m gonna keep the belt[s]. We’re going to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a big party!”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“A win on Saturday lets me know that I’m fulfilling my destiny. I know that I’m gonna be an all-time great when it’s all said and done. I’m just gonna continue showing everyone that I’m the best in the world.
I’ve worked extremely hard for this. Five months of training camp. The only thing I’ve seen in my vision is victory. I’m gonna make sure you get your money’s worth on May 2.
“I’m a different type of fighter than everyone else. I’ve been fighting the best in the world again and again.
“Camp has been amazing. I’m very excited and ready to showcase my skills on Saturday night in front of all those fans.
“I’ve been on weight since last week. I’m gonna come in with a tremendous energy. I really can’t wait.”
ARMANDO RESENDIZ
“It’s simple. I just have to go out there, listen to my corner and enjoy every single minute of it. We’re gonna put on a show and give everyone a great night.
“This could not be more exciting for me. I’m the champ and it feels amazing. I’m enjoying the moment. That’s all you can do. Enjoy this and go for the win on Saturday night.
“Every single fight on this card is outstanding, but I know that my fight is gonna be very entertaining. The only goal is to go home with the belt in my arms.”
JAIME MUNGUIA
“I’ve been here before, but now you’re gonna see a more mature Jaime Munguia. I’m hungry and ready to take the title. We’re gonna put on a show on May 2.
“When two Mexican fighters are inside the ring, you get a great fight. This is no exception. You’re gonna see two warriors out there.
“We’re gonna go in there and look for the knockout. We’re gonna make this a spectacle and get the win.
“I promise that you’re gonna see Jaime Munguia as a two-time world champion on Saturday night. I’m gonna come out on top.”
OSCAR DUARTE
“I’m really proud to be part of this. There’s a long storied history of Mexican fighters competing here in Las Vegas and this card is chock full of fighters prime to make history as well. I’m here to show my best and let everyone know what I’m capable of.
“Fierro is an aggressive fighter, and so am I. The only way to neutralize his aggressiveness is for me to come forward and show him what I’m all about.
“I promise that I’m gonna give everyone a great fight. I’m ready for it.
“I’m here to face the best. I want to go up against the best that the 140-pound division has to offer, and one fighter in particular, Pitbull Cruz.”
ANGEL FIERRO
“I’m gonna go out there and put on a show like I always do. I’m gonna leave my blood, sweat and tears inside the ring. I’m doing this for Tijuana!
“I love being the underdog. I’m here to spoil the party. I gave everyone an amazing fight with Pitbull Cruz and I’m gonna do that again against Duarte.
“I’m here to steal the show. It’s hard to do with all the names on this card. It’s a tall task, but we’re gonna delight the fans and I’m gonna come out with a win.
“This is gonna put me on the doorstep to even bigger fights. I’m talking about world title opportunities. But the first thing is Duarte on Saturday night.”
JORGE CHAVEZ
“Training camp has been great. We’re preparing for a war and excited to perform on this tremendous card.
“I was better than ever in my last fight and fans can expect the same thing on Saturday. I’m gonna be the best version of myself.
“When I win, I want Naoya Inoue. I want to face the best. That’s the bottom line, and that all starts on Saturday night.
“You can expect no less than a war. You know the Mexicans are prime to deliver that.”
JOSE “TITO” SANCHEZ
“I’m really excited to be on a big Mexican style card like this. I’m extremely glad to be in this position.
“I’ve just been staying in camp with Joel Diaz. I’m always locked in and ready. I can’t wait to perform on Saturday.
“I think Benavidez is getting a stoppage in the main event for sure.”
ISAAC LUCERO
“My aim is to keep improving and be in position to go after bigger and better goals, like a world title. I just want to get better day in and day out.
“I’m a warrior above all. But I’m also going to listen to my corner, because I trust them. What I do in the gym is what sets me up for success.
“You can expect a true Cinco de Mayo battle on Saturday. This is gonna be all-out war. You’re not gonna want to miss it.
“I’m just focused on getting the win. Flores has his own goals, but I’m just focused on what I need to do to come out with my hand raised.”
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Purse bid results for Samake vs. Hadribeaj |
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The WBC announced that Arena Box Promotions has secured the rights to organize a WBC final junior middleweight eliminator bout between France’s Bakary Samake and Albania’s Ermal Hadribeaj. In a competitive bidding process, Arena Box Promotions submitted a winning bid of $339,817 USD, surpassing the proposal from Samake Promotions, which was for $281,800 USD. This bout was originally scheduled to be part of the Lawrence Okolie vs. Tony Yoka card. However, following the cancellation of that event last week [due to Okolie failing a drug test], the fight entered a new bidding process to guarantee its realization under the highest standards.
Samake (19-0) has proven to be one of the most solid and charismatic figures in European boxing. His dynamic style and undefeated record position him as a favorite among French fans. Hadribeaj (22-0-1) enters with the reputation of being a relentless fighter with a refined technique that has led him to rapidly climb the international rankings. The Albanian sees this eliminator as the perfect opportunity to establish himself among the elite of his wwight class.
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Purse bid results for Samake vs. Hadribeaj
The WBC announced that Arena Box Promotions has secured the rights to organize a WBC final junior middleweight eliminator bout between France’s Bakary Samake and Albania’s Ermal Hadribeaj. In a competitive bidding process, Arena Box Promotions submitted a winning bid of $339,817 USD, surpassing the proposal from Samake Promotions, which was for $281,800 USD. This bout was originally scheduled to be part of the Lawrence Okolie vs. Tony Yoka card. However, following the cancellation of that event last week [due to Okolie failing a drug test], the fight entered a new bidding process to guarantee its realization under the highest standards.
Samake (19-0) has proven to be one of the most solid and charismatic figures in European boxing. His dynamic style and undefeated record position him as a favorite among French fans. Hadribeaj (22-0-1) enters with the reputation of being a relentless fighter with a refined technique that has led him to rapidly climb the international rankings. The Albanian sees this eliminator as the perfect opportunity to establish himself among the elite of his wwight class.
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Results from WBA Fedelatin Convention in Chile |
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Josué Francisco Agüero W10 Ángel Daniel García... The April 25th card (night two) at the WBA Fedelatin Convention in Chile was highlighted by Josué Francisco Agüero capturing a win in the junior lightweight division, passing a tough test. Agüero scored a unanimous decision over Mexico’s Ángel Daniel García in a bout where the unbeaten winner’s precision proved decisive in neutralizing the visitor’s pressure. The judges turned in cards of 97-93 (twice) and 96-94, reflecting the nature of a fight that was ultimately decided by small margins in the championship rounds.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The most dramatic moment of the night for Chilean fans came with the fall of their hometown favorite. In a tightly contested tactical battle, Argentina’s Facundo García stunned the arena by upsetting Andrés Campos in a super flyweight contest. In a split decision that sparked debate ringside, scorecards of 94-93 (twice) and 94-95 favored García, who capitalized on close-range exchanges to edge out a razor-close victory, forcing Campos to reassess his path toward the elite at 115 pounds.
Meanwhile, a women’s boxing delivered a high-volume showcase Argentienan light flyweight Aldana Florencia López defeated Mexico’s seasoned Brenda Montserrat Alarcón via unanimous decision, using her youth and relentless punch output to neutralize the former champion’s experience. “La Avispa” López secured a clear verdict.
NIGHT ONE
José Núñez KO2 Erislandy Álvarez... Night one of last weekend's WBA Fedelatin Convention wrapped up with a boxing card on Chilean soil, leaving behind a trail of knockouts and a handful of surprising outcomes. In an evening where Cuban technique met South American grit inside the ring, the final tally produced new champions and unexpected setbacks that are sure to spark conversation. The biggest shock of the night came in the 140-pound division. Panama’s José Núñez delivered the upset of the convention, scoring a second-round knockout over Cuban Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez. Despite the Cuban controlling the early action, Núñez found the opening to land a clean, decisive shot that ended the unbeaten run of the gold medalist. The southpaw Nunez is now 18-0-2 with a recent loss changed to a no contest due to his opponent's positive drug test for a banned substance. Álvarez, age 25, won the gold medal for Cuba in the lightweight division at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
The standout performance of the night came from Cuban three-time Olympic medalist Lázaro Álvarez, who reaffirmed his smooth transition into the professional ranks with a win in the lightweight division. Álvarez scored a fourth-round technical knockout over Brazil’s Jackson Furtado, showcasing surgical precision that dismantled his opponent’s guard until the referee stepped in at the 0:40 mark of the round.
At 154 pounds, the action came in double measure. Italy’s Piergiulio Ruhe registered a fifth-round technical knockout over Winshaw Sungarov, imposing his physical strength from the opening bell. In a separate bout, Argentina’s Jonathan Wilson Sánchez secured a hard-fought majority decision victory over Cuba’s Yusnier Sorsano Ruiz, with scorecards reading 96-94 (twice) and 97-93 in a tightly contested tactical battle that was decided in the championship rounds.
Finally, France’s Sofiane Oumiha delivered a masterclass in ring generalship, defeating Venezuela’s Ángel Rodríguez by unanimous decision. Oumiha controlled range and tempo across ten junior lightweight rounds, reaffirming his status as one of the most technically gifted fighters in the sport today.
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Results from WBA Fedelatin Convention in Chile
Josué Francisco Agüero W10 Ángel Daniel García... The April 25th card (night two) at the WBA Fedelatin Convention in Chile was highlighted by Josué Francisco Agüero capturing a win in the junior lightweight division, passing a tough test. Agüero scored a unanimous decision over Mexico’s Ángel Daniel García in a bout where the unbeaten winner’s precision proved decisive in neutralizing the visitor’s pressure. The judges turned in cards of 97-93 (twice) and 96-94, reflecting the nature of a fight that was ultimately decided by small margins in the championship rounds.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The most dramatic moment of the night for Chilean fans came with the fall of their hometown favorite. In a tightly contested tactical battle, Argentina’s Facundo García stunned the arena by upsetting Andrés Campos in a super flyweight contest. In a split decision that sparked debate ringside, scorecards of 94-93 (twice) and 94-95 favored García, who capitalized on close-range exchanges to edge out a razor-close victory, forcing Campos to reassess his path toward the elite at 115 pounds.
Meanwhile, a women’s boxing delivered a high-volume showcase Argentienan light flyweight Aldana Florencia López defeated Mexico’s seasoned Brenda Montserrat Alarcón via unanimous decision, using her youth and relentless punch output to neutralize the former champion’s experience. “La Avispa” López secured a clear verdict.
NIGHT ONE
José Núñez KO2 Erislandy Álvarez... Night one of last weekend's WBA Fedelatin Convention wrapped up with a boxing card on Chilean soil, leaving behind a trail of knockouts and a handful of surprising outcomes. In an evening where Cuban technique met South American grit inside the ring, the final tally produced new champions and unexpected setbacks that are sure to spark conversation. The biggest shock of the night came in the 140-pound division. Panama’s José Núñez delivered the upset of the convention, scoring a second-round knockout over Cuban Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez. Despite the Cuban controlling the early action, Núñez found the opening to land a clean, decisive shot that ended the unbeaten run of the gold medalist. The southpaw Nunez is now 18-0-2 with a recent loss changed to a no contest due to his opponent's positive drug test for a banned substance. Álvarez, age 25, won the gold medal for Cuba in the lightweight division at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
The standout performance of the night came from Cuban three-time Olympic medalist Lázaro Álvarez, who reaffirmed his smooth transition into the professional ranks with a win in the lightweight division. Álvarez scored a fourth-round technical knockout over Brazil’s Jackson Furtado, showcasing surgical precision that dismantled his opponent’s guard until the referee stepped in at the 0:40 mark of the round.
At 154 pounds, the action came in double measure. Italy’s Piergiulio Ruhe registered a fifth-round technical knockout over Winshaw Sungarov, imposing his physical strength from the opening bell. In a separate bout, Argentina’s Jonathan Wilson Sánchez secured a hard-fought majority decision victory over Cuba’s Yusnier Sorsano Ruiz, with scorecards reading 96-94 (twice) and 97-93 in a tightly contested tactical battle that was decided in the championship rounds.
Finally, France’s Sofiane Oumiha delivered a masterclass in ring generalship, defeating Venezuela’s Ángel Rodríguez by unanimous decision. Oumiha controlled range and tempo across ten junior lightweight rounds, reaffirming his status as one of the most technically gifted fighters in the sport today.
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Angel Barrientes says he's ready for anyone at 122 |
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Angel Barrientes W8 Luis Espinoza... Super bantamweight Angel “AK-47” Barrientes (15-1, 9 KOs), delivered a winning performance on Saturday, earning a unanimous decision victory over Luis Espinoza (10-2, 4 KOs) at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The scheduled eight-round bout was broadcast live on DAZN. From the opening bell, Barrientes showcased sharp timing, superior footwork, and consistent pressure, controlling every aspect of the fight en route to a clean sweep on all three judges’ scorecards, each reading 80-72. Afterwards, Barrientes expressed confidence, saying, “I knew this was a big opportunity for me, fighting live on DAZN, and I wanted to make the most of it,” Barrientes said. “I stayed disciplined, stuck to the game plan, and showed that I can control a fight from start to finish. I’m ready for bigger stages and bigger challenges, I’m ready for anyone in the division.”
The 23-year-old Las Vegas native made it clear that his ambitions extend far beyond a single victory. “I’m here to take over the division,” Barrientes said. “There’s a lot of talent at super bantamweight, but I believe in my skills, my work ethic, and my mindset, is what separates me. I’m building toward something bigger, and every fight is a step closer to becoming one of the best in the world. This win means a lot for my career. I wanted to go out there and dominate every round. I’m improving, I’m learning, and I’m ready to step up. I want tougher opponents, I want the very best, because that’s how I’ll earn my title shot, I’m close.”
With confidence high following his performance, Barrientes is already looking ahead to his next appearance. “I want to get back in the ring as soon as possible,” Barrientes concluded. “I’m staying ready, staying sharp, and I want to keep building momentum. The more I fight, the better I get, and I’m hungry to keep marching toward a world title.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, believes Barrientes has the tools to become a major force in the division. “Angel Barrientes showed why he is one of the most promising young fighters in the division,” Piedra said. “What stands out is not just his talent, but his composure, his discipline, and his ability to execute a game plan at a high level. Performances like this demonstrate that he has the skill set to compete with, and beat, anyone in the super bantamweight division. We’ll be looking to put him in with someone in the top ten, he’s ready.”
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Angel Barrientes says he's ready for anyone at 122
Angel Barrientes W8 Luis Espinoza... Super bantamweight Angel “AK-47” Barrientes (15-1, 9 KOs), delivered a winning performance on Saturday, earning a unanimous decision victory over Luis Espinoza (10-2, 4 KOs) at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The scheduled eight-round bout was broadcast live on DAZN. From the opening bell, Barrientes showcased sharp timing, superior footwork, and consistent pressure, controlling every aspect of the fight en route to a clean sweep on all three judges’ scorecards, each reading 80-72. Afterwards, Barrientes expressed confidence, saying, “I knew this was a big opportunity for me, fighting live on DAZN, and I wanted to make the most of it,” Barrientes said. “I stayed disciplined, stuck to the game plan, and showed that I can control a fight from start to finish. I’m ready for bigger stages and bigger challenges, I’m ready for anyone in the division.”
The 23-year-old Las Vegas native made it clear that his ambitions extend far beyond a single victory. “I’m here to take over the division,” Barrientes said. “There’s a lot of talent at super bantamweight, but I believe in my skills, my work ethic, and my mindset, is what separates me. I’m building toward something bigger, and every fight is a step closer to becoming one of the best in the world. This win means a lot for my career. I wanted to go out there and dominate every round. I’m improving, I’m learning, and I’m ready to step up. I want tougher opponents, I want the very best, because that’s how I’ll earn my title shot, I’m close.”
With confidence high following his performance, Barrientes is already looking ahead to his next appearance. “I want to get back in the ring as soon as possible,” Barrientes concluded. “I’m staying ready, staying sharp, and I want to keep building momentum. The more I fight, the better I get, and I’m hungry to keep marching toward a world title.”
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, believes Barrientes has the tools to become a major force in the division. “Angel Barrientes showed why he is one of the most promising young fighters in the division,” Piedra said. “What stands out is not just his talent, but his composure, his discipline, and his ability to execute a game plan at a high level. Performances like this demonstrate that he has the skill set to compete with, and beat, anyone in the super bantamweight division. We’ll be looking to put him in with someone in the top ten, he’s ready.”
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Cyprus the site for solid show May 19th show headlined by Aliev |
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On May 19th, the island of Cyprus will host an international boxing event. The heavyweight division will take center stage with two significant bouts. In the main event, giant Frenchman Mourad Aliev (14-1) faces even-taller Nigeria's Ethasor Raphael Akpejiori (19-2). This fight is a clash of titans where Aliev’s technique will be tested against Akpejiori’s knockout power. Additionally, Ahmed Krnjic (7-1) will clash with Metin Turunc (14-1). The card also highlights junior welterweights Oussama Kebdani vs. Luis Vela and junior lightweights Muhamet Qamili vs. Alessangel David Mayora Romero.
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Cyprus the site for solid show May 19th show headlined by Aliev
On May 19th, the island of Cyprus will host an international boxing event. The heavyweight division will take center stage with two significant bouts. In the main event, giant Frenchman Mourad Aliev (14-1) faces even-taller Nigeria's Ethasor Raphael Akpejiori (19-2). This fight is a clash of titans where Aliev’s technique will be tested against Akpejiori’s knockout power. Additionally, Ahmed Krnjic (7-1) will clash with Metin Turunc (14-1). The card also highlights junior welterweights Oussama Kebdani vs. Luis Vela and junior lightweights Muhamet Qamili vs. Alessangel David Mayora Romero.
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Watch: Teremoana extends KO streak to 11 |
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Teremoana Teremoana KO1 Bowie Tupou... Australian heavyweight Teremoana Teremoana is now 11-0 with 11 KOs following a violent first-round knockout over domestic mainstay Bowie Tupou. When Topou put his back to the ropes, Teremoana quickly destroyed him with a six-piece combination. Teremoana represented Australia in the 2024 Olymoics, where he lost to eventual gold meadl winner Bakhodir Jalolov. Toupou is 43 years old, and with this, his second straight stoppage loss, his record now stands at 29-8.
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Watch: Teremoana extends KO streak to 11
Teremoana Teremoana KO1 Bowie Tupou... Australian heavyweight Teremoana Teremoana is now 11-0 with 11 KOs following a violent first-round knockout over domestic mainstay Bowie Tupou. When Topou put his back to the ropes, Teremoana quickly destroyed him with a six-piece combination. Teremoana represented Australia in the 2024 Olymoics, where he lost to eventual gold meadl winner Bakhodir Jalolov. Toupou is 43 years old, and with this, his second straight stoppage loss, his record now stands at 29-8.
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Skye Nicholson defeats Mariah Turner |
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Skye Nicolson W10 Mariah Turner... Australia's Skye Nicolson (16-1) kept her super bantamweight title hopes on track after a wide victory over Mariah Turner in Melbourne. The former BC featherweight title holder succeeded in the first defense of her WBC interim crown. Nicolson controlled the pace at Melbourne Pavilion throughout, taking a 100-89 unanimous decision over Turner, who is now 12-2. Tempers flared in a lively sixth where Nicolson appeared to stun Turner, before she seemingly tumbled into the ropes herself.
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Skye Nicholson defeats Mariah Turner
Skye Nicolson W10 Mariah Turner... Australia's Skye Nicolson (16-1) kept her super bantamweight title hopes on track after a wide victory over Mariah Turner in Melbourne. The former BC featherweight title holder succeeded in the first defense of her WBC interim crown. Nicolson controlled the pace at Melbourne Pavilion throughout, taking a 100-89 unanimous decision over Turner, who is now 12-2. Tempers flared in a lively sixth where Nicolson appeared to stun Turner, before she seemingly tumbled into the ropes herself.
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Blancas vs. Salomon to feature on Saturday's Prime freestream |
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Super middleweight Daniel “Ice Man” Blancas will battle hard-hitting Raul Salomon in the ten-round headlining bout of a three-fight streaming presentation live and for free on Prime Video on Saturday, May 2nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The streaming action begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT with a battle of undefeated Olympians as Colombia’s Juan Carrillo meets Ecuador’s Marlo Delgado in an eight-round light heavyweight match-up. The third bout features 17 year-old welterweight Dylan Capetillo, who steps in for his second pro fight in a four-round attraction. These match-ups lead into a five-fight PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT headlined by a first of its kind Mexico vs. Mexico duel between WBA / WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez and undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez.
The pay-per-view is highlighted by a slew of Mexico vs. Mexico matchups including WBA super middleweight champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz facing former 154-pound champion Jaime Munguía in an explosive clash. The lineup will also include Oscar Duarte against Angel Fierro in a junior welterweight bout, plus undefeated Isaac “Puro México” Lucero pitted against hard-hitting Ismael Flores. Super bantamweights Jorge Chavez and Jose “Tito” Sanchez open the action with a battle of unbeatens. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through www.AXS.com.
The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Sampson Boxing in association with TGB Promotions. In addition to the pay-per-view being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase it via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets, as well as PPV.com.
A stablemate of headliner David Benavidez, Daniel Blancas will put his undefeated record on the line against dangerous Mexican veteran Raul Salomon in a ten-round super middleweight affair. Originally from Milwaukee, Blancas (14-0 with 7 KOs) is unbeaten since turning pro in 2022 and will make his 2026 debut following a three-win campaign in 2025. The 24-year old opened last year with a dominant unanimous decision triumph over previously unbeaten Juan Barajas, before scoring a first-round knockout of Kwame Ritter in May. Most recently, Blancas stopped William Townsel in three rounds in December. “I’m honored to be headlining on Prime Video on May 2nd,” said Blancas. “This is an incredible card and I can’t wait to give the fans an exciting fight and show my skills. This is gonna be a great night Cinco de Mayo weekend.”
The 27 year-old Salomon (16-3-1, 14 KOs) is unbeaten in his last five outings, including his last bout that saw him stop Juan Carlos Perez Rojo in two rounds in February. A native of Ciudad Morelos, Baja California, Mexico, Salomon has never been stopped, with his three decision defeats coming to opponents with a combined record of 36-1-1 at the time he faced them. He racked up eight-straight stoppage wins after turning pro in October 2020 and has plenty of experience fighting stateside as he prepares for his ninth U.S. outing. “I’m very prepared for May 2nd,” said Salomon. “I really feel like I belong in this position and I’m eager to show everyone that this is just the beginning for me.”
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Blancas vs. Salomon to feature on Saturday's Prime freestream
Super middleweight Daniel “Ice Man” Blancas will battle hard-hitting Raul Salomon in the ten-round headlining bout of a three-fight streaming presentation live and for free on Prime Video on Saturday, May 2nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The streaming action begins at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT with a battle of undefeated Olympians as Colombia’s Juan Carrillo meets Ecuador’s Marlo Delgado in an eight-round light heavyweight match-up. The third bout features 17 year-old welterweight Dylan Capetillo, who steps in for his second pro fight in a four-round attraction. These match-ups lead into a five-fight PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT headlined by a first of its kind Mexico vs. Mexico duel between WBA / WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez and undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez.
The pay-per-view is highlighted by a slew of Mexico vs. Mexico matchups including WBA super middleweight champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz facing former 154-pound champion Jaime Munguía in an explosive clash. The lineup will also include Oscar Duarte against Angel Fierro in a junior welterweight bout, plus undefeated Isaac “Puro México” Lucero pitted against hard-hitting Ismael Flores. Super bantamweights Jorge Chavez and Jose “Tito” Sanchez open the action with a battle of unbeatens. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through www.AXS.com.
The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Sampson Boxing in association with TGB Promotions. In addition to the pay-per-view being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase it via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets, as well as PPV.com.
A stablemate of headliner David Benavidez, Daniel Blancas will put his undefeated record on the line against dangerous Mexican veteran Raul Salomon in a ten-round super middleweight affair. Originally from Milwaukee, Blancas (14-0 with 7 KOs) is unbeaten since turning pro in 2022 and will make his 2026 debut following a three-win campaign in 2025. The 24-year old opened last year with a dominant unanimous decision triumph over previously unbeaten Juan Barajas, before scoring a first-round knockout of Kwame Ritter in May. Most recently, Blancas stopped William Townsel in three rounds in December. “I’m honored to be headlining on Prime Video on May 2nd,” said Blancas. “This is an incredible card and I can’t wait to give the fans an exciting fight and show my skills. This is gonna be a great night Cinco de Mayo weekend.”
The 27 year-old Salomon (16-3-1, 14 KOs) is unbeaten in his last five outings, including his last bout that saw him stop Juan Carlos Perez Rojo in two rounds in February. A native of Ciudad Morelos, Baja California, Mexico, Salomon has never been stopped, with his three decision defeats coming to opponents with a combined record of 36-1-1 at the time he faced them. He racked up eight-straight stoppage wins after turning pro in October 2020 and has plenty of experience fighting stateside as he prepares for his ninth U.S. outing. “I’m very prepared for May 2nd,” said Salomon. “I really feel like I belong in this position and I’m eager to show everyone that this is just the beginning for me.”
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Late result: Jarrell Miller scores significant win |
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Jarrell Miller W12 Lenier Pero... Volume and relentless pressure once again proved to be the winning formula for Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller. In a physically punishing heavyweight clash, the Brooklyn native earned a unanimous decision over Cuba’s Lenier “El Justiciero” Peró on Saturday, April 25th at the BleauLive Theater inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas, securing his position as a top contender in the WBA rankings. The fight opened with Peró in control, as the Cuban southpaw relied on his Olympic pedigree and technical polish to keep Miller at bay through the first three rounds. Using fluid footwork and sharp hooks, Peró appeared to have the rhythm figured out, frustrating Miller’s early attempts to close the distance. However, beginning in the fourth round, Miller’s sheer mass and constant forward pressure—having tipped the scales at 305 pounds—began to shift the momentum.
The turning point came in the second half of the bout. True to his bully style, Miller forced Peró into close quarters, punishing the body and landing heavy uppercuts that gradually wore down the Cuban’s conditioning. By the eighth round, fatigue had clearly set in for Peró, who struggled to keep pace with Miller’s relentless work rate—an unusually high punch volume for the heavyweight division—as he was backed up against the ropes.
After twelve grueling rounds of physical warfare, the judges returned scores of 117-111 (twice) and 115-113, all in favor of Miller. With the victory, “Big Baby” (28-1-2, 22 KOs) not only hands Peró his first professional defeat, but also positions himself firmly on the brink of a world title opportunity [perhaps against WBA secondary champion Murat Gassiev]. Following the fight, Miller wasted no time calling out Deontay Wilder, targeting what he described as a definitive all-American heavyweight showdown for late 2026. Meanwhile, Peró (13-1) suffers his first setback as a pro, showing flashes of elite technique, but ultimately undone by the decisive factors of size, pressure, and punch volume on a demanding night in Las Vegas.
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Late result: Jarrell Miller scores significant win
Jarrell Miller W12 Lenier Pero... Volume and relentless pressure once again proved to be the winning formula for Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller. In a physically punishing heavyweight clash, the Brooklyn native earned a unanimous decision over Cuba’s Lenier “El Justiciero” Peró on Saturday, April 25th at the BleauLive Theater inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas, securing his position as a top contender in the WBA rankings. The fight opened with Peró in control, as the Cuban southpaw relied on his Olympic pedigree and technical polish to keep Miller at bay through the first three rounds. Using fluid footwork and sharp hooks, Peró appeared to have the rhythm figured out, frustrating Miller’s early attempts to close the distance. However, beginning in the fourth round, Miller’s sheer mass and constant forward pressure—having tipped the scales at 305 pounds—began to shift the momentum.
The turning point came in the second half of the bout. True to his bully style, Miller forced Peró into close quarters, punishing the body and landing heavy uppercuts that gradually wore down the Cuban’s conditioning. By the eighth round, fatigue had clearly set in for Peró, who struggled to keep pace with Miller’s relentless work rate—an unusually high punch volume for the heavyweight division—as he was backed up against the ropes.
After twelve grueling rounds of physical warfare, the judges returned scores of 117-111 (twice) and 115-113, all in favor of Miller. With the victory, “Big Baby” (28-1-2, 22 KOs) not only hands Peró his first professional defeat, but also positions himself firmly on the brink of a world title opportunity [perhaps against WBA secondary champion Murat Gassiev]. Following the fight, Miller wasted no time calling out Deontay Wilder, targeting what he described as a definitive all-American heavyweight showdown for late 2026. Meanwhile, Peró (13-1) suffers his first setback as a pro, showing flashes of elite technique, but ultimately undone by the decisive factors of size, pressure, and punch volume on a demanding night in Las Vegas.
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Watch: Olympic champion knocked out in Chile |
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José Núñez KO2 Erislandy Álvarez... Night one of last weekend's WBA Fedelatin Convention wrapped up with a boxing card on Chilean soil, leaving behind a trail of knockouts and a handful of surprising outcomes. In an evening where Cuban technique met South American grit inside the ring, the final tally produced new champions and unexpected setbacks that are sure to spark conversation. The biggest shock of the night came in the 140-pound division. Panama’s José Núñez delivered the upset of the convention, scoring a second-round knockout over Cuban Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez. Despite the Cuban controlling the early action, Núñez found the opening to land a clean, decisive shot that ended the unbeaten run of the gold medalist. The southpaw Nunez is now 18-0-2 with a recent loss changed to a no contest due to his opponent's positive drug test for a banned substance. Álvarez, age 25, won the gold medal for Cuba in the lightweight division at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The standout performance of the night came from Cuban three-time Olympic medalist Lázaro Álvarez, who reaffirmed his smooth transition into the professional ranks with a win in the lightweight division. Álvarez scored a fourth-round technical knockout over Brazil’s Jackson Furtado, showcasing surgical precision that dismantled his opponent’s guard until the referee stepped in at the 0:40 mark of the round.
At 154 pounds, the action came in double measure. Italy’s Piergiulio Ruhe registered a fifth-round technical knockout over Winshaw Sungarov, imposing his physical strength from the opening bell. In a separate bout, Argentina’s Jonathan Wilson Sánchez secured a hard-fought majority decision victory over Cuba’s Yusnier Sorsano Ruiz, with scorecards reading 96-94 (twice) and 97-93 in a tightly contested tactical battle that was decided in the championship rounds.
Finally, France’s Sofiane Oumiha delivered a masterclass in ring generalship, defeating Venezuela’s Ángel Rodríguez by unanimous decision. Oumiha controlled range and tempo across ten junior lightweight rounds, reaffirming his status as one of the most technically gifted fighters in the sport today.
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Watch: Olympic champion knocked out in Chile
José Núñez KO2 Erislandy Álvarez... Night one of last weekend's WBA Fedelatin Convention wrapped up with a boxing card on Chilean soil, leaving behind a trail of knockouts and a handful of surprising outcomes. In an evening where Cuban technique met South American grit inside the ring, the final tally produced new champions and unexpected setbacks that are sure to spark conversation. The biggest shock of the night came in the 140-pound division. Panama’s José Núñez delivered the upset of the convention, scoring a second-round knockout over Cuban Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez. Despite the Cuban controlling the early action, Núñez found the opening to land a clean, decisive shot that ended the unbeaten run of the gold medalist. The southpaw Nunez is now 18-0-2 with a recent loss changed to a no contest due to his opponent's positive drug test for a banned substance. Álvarez, age 25, won the gold medal for Cuba in the lightweight division at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The standout performance of the night came from Cuban three-time Olympic medalist Lázaro Álvarez, who reaffirmed his smooth transition into the professional ranks with a win in the lightweight division. Álvarez scored a fourth-round technical knockout over Brazil’s Jackson Furtado, showcasing surgical precision that dismantled his opponent’s guard until the referee stepped in at the 0:40 mark of the round.
At 154 pounds, the action came in double measure. Italy’s Piergiulio Ruhe registered a fifth-round technical knockout over Winshaw Sungarov, imposing his physical strength from the opening bell. In a separate bout, Argentina’s Jonathan Wilson Sánchez secured a hard-fought majority decision victory over Cuba’s Yusnier Sorsano Ruiz, with scorecards reading 96-94 (twice) and 97-93 in a tightly contested tactical battle that was decided in the championship rounds.
Finally, France’s Sofiane Oumiha delivered a masterclass in ring generalship, defeating Venezuela’s Ángel Rodríguez by unanimous decision. Oumiha controlled range and tempo across ten junior lightweight rounds, reaffirming his status as one of the most technically gifted fighters in the sport today.
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Does a win this weekend put Inoue in the discussion for greatest Asian boxer ever? |
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Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani will step into the ring this weekend on home soil for one of-- if not the-- biggest fight in Japanese boxing history. The pair top a May 2nd DAZN pay-per-view card at the Tokyo Dome, as the former defends his world super bantamweight crown against his domestic rival. For Nakatani, victory will see him become the first man to defeat Inoue, and although that honor can bolster his status within the sport, it appears that Inoue could be fighting for something more due to his deeper record and list of accomplishments. That’s not to say that Nakatani will not get to that point as his career continues to develop, but with Inoue being a world champion since 2014, a year before Nakatani turned professional, his stunning twelve-year run has made him a modern superstar and a guaranteed first-time entrant into the Boxing Hall of Fame. But at 33, and perhaps on the last lap of his career, is the title of Asia’s best ever fighter still in his sights with Manny Pacquiao so far in front?
Asia has provided boxing with many outstanding boxers, such as Fighting Harada, Nonito Donaire, and Khaosai Galaxy, but in the modern era, Pacquiao and Inoue have raised the bar significantly higher. After turning professional at the backend of 2012, Inoue became a two-weight world champion a couple of years later as he made light work of his lower weight peers. Moving to bantamweight in 2018, Inoue destroyed Jamie McDonnell in the opening session, and the following year competed in a classic bout against Donaire when he outpointed the Filipino legend. Against Paul Butler in 2022, Inoue became undisputed at bantamweight, and he achieved the same feat in the division above with incredible wins over Stephen Fulton and Marlon Tapales.
Inoue still sits on top at super-bantamweight, but Nakatani is expected to represent his most difficult task to date. To unseat Pacquiao, perhaps an impossible mission, Inoue not only has to overtake Asia’s best ever fighter, but also one of boxing’s greatest ever competitors.
Pacquiao's credentials have long been examined, but his stunning run as world champion that saw him bulldoze his way through eight weight classes was a journey that took an unknown Filipino youngster to one of the most recognisable individuals in sport. Whereas Inoue has earned his stripes destroying lower weight fighters mainly in his homeland, Pacquiao was making legendary boxers look average on some of boxing's biggest ever shows. Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, and Miguel Cotto all failed to hear the final bell against Pacquiao as he became a box office phenomenon by taking out some of the sport’s most high-profile fighters.
After seemingly walking away from boxing in 2021 after a loss to Yordenis Ugas, Pacquiao returned last year and almost became a champion again after securing a draw against Mario Barrios in a bout many believed he won.
For Inoue to gain that type of profile, a move through the weight classes, maybe all the way to lightweight, would be one way to make the argument between him and Pacquiao closer. Even then, more major names would be required on Inoue’s ledger to match the level of opposition taken on by Pacquiao. Nakatani is a solid step in the right direction and with Bam Rodriquez also lurking around super-bantamweight, that would also enhance Inoue’s standing.
After that, trips to America to perform on boxing’s grandest stage could close the gap, but who else is there to fatten Inoue’s record? Emanuel Navarrete? Abdullah Mason? Gervonta Davis? If Inoue’s American switch could see him overcome these names in a dominant manner, then he could have his backers when debating Asia’s best fighter.
Inoue has time on his side, and it all starts with Nakatani on May 2nd.
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Does a win this weekend put Inoue in the discussion for greatest Asian boxer ever?
Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani will step into the ring this weekend on home soil for one of-- if not the-- biggest fight in Japanese boxing history. The pair top a May 2nd DAZN pay-per-view card at the Tokyo Dome, as the former defends his world super bantamweight crown against his domestic rival. For Nakatani, victory will see him become the first man to defeat Inoue, and although that honor can bolster his status within the sport, it appears that Inoue could be fighting for something more due to his deeper record and list of accomplishments. That’s not to say that Nakatani will not get to that point as his career continues to develop, but with Inoue being a world champion since 2014, a year before Nakatani turned professional, his stunning twelve-year run has made him a modern superstar and a guaranteed first-time entrant into the Boxing Hall of Fame. But at 33, and perhaps on the last lap of his career, is the title of Asia’s best ever fighter still in his sights with Manny Pacquiao so far in front?
Asia has provided boxing with many outstanding boxers, such as Fighting Harada, Nonito Donaire, and Khaosai Galaxy, but in the modern era, Pacquiao and Inoue have raised the bar significantly higher. After turning professional at the backend of 2012, Inoue became a two-weight world champion a couple of years later as he made light work of his lower weight peers. Moving to bantamweight in 2018, Inoue destroyed Jamie McDonnell in the opening session, and the following year competed in a classic bout against Donaire when he outpointed the Filipino legend. Against Paul Butler in 2022, Inoue became undisputed at bantamweight, and he achieved the same feat in the division above with incredible wins over Stephen Fulton and Marlon Tapales.
Inoue still sits on top at super-bantamweight, but Nakatani is expected to represent his most difficult task to date. To unseat Pacquiao, perhaps an impossible mission, Inoue not only has to overtake Asia’s best ever fighter, but also one of boxing’s greatest ever competitors.
Pacquiao's credentials have long been examined, but his stunning run as world champion that saw him bulldoze his way through eight weight classes was a journey that took an unknown Filipino youngster to one of the most recognisable individuals in sport. Whereas Inoue has earned his stripes destroying lower weight fighters mainly in his homeland, Pacquiao was making legendary boxers look average on some of boxing's biggest ever shows. Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, and Miguel Cotto all failed to hear the final bell against Pacquiao as he became a box office phenomenon by taking out some of the sport’s most high-profile fighters.
After seemingly walking away from boxing in 2021 after a loss to Yordenis Ugas, Pacquiao returned last year and almost became a champion again after securing a draw against Mario Barrios in a bout many believed he won.
For Inoue to gain that type of profile, a move through the weight classes, maybe all the way to lightweight, would be one way to make the argument between him and Pacquiao closer. Even then, more major names would be required on Inoue’s ledger to match the level of opposition taken on by Pacquiao. Nakatani is a solid step in the right direction and with Bam Rodriquez also lurking around super-bantamweight, that would also enhance Inoue’s standing.
After that, trips to America to perform on boxing’s grandest stage could close the gap, but who else is there to fatten Inoue’s record? Emanuel Navarrete? Abdullah Mason? Gervonta Davis? If Inoue’s American switch could see him overcome these names in a dominant manner, then he could have his backers when debating Asia’s best fighter.
Inoue has time on his side, and it all starts with Nakatani on May 2nd.
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Benavidez bids to become three-division champ this week |
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Undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez will look to make history as he jumps up to the cruiserweight division to challenge unified WBA / WBO champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. That fight headlines a Cinco de Mayo weekend show on PBC pay-per-view this Saturday, May 2nd at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The 29 year-old Benavidez (pictured) can become the first fighter to win world titles at 168, 175 and 200 pounds [Badou Jack won a secondary title at 175, so he doesn't qualify] if he can grab the belts from Ramirez in a first-of-its-kind Mexico vs. Mexico matchup that will also serve as Benavidez’s first foray into the cruiserweight division.
"Continuing to move up and challenge world champions shows everyone that I'm serious about what I do, and that I believe in my skills 100%,” said Benavidez. “Making more history on May 2 would mean the world to me. At this point in my life, I just want to reach greatness. Winning these titles will definitely put me back in position to continue to push for more greatness. I'm just really happy with where I'm at in my career, and with all the risks I'm taking, because I believe it will all pay off when my career is all said and done.”
With this move up in weight, Benavidez plans to use the extra weight to his advantage, and combine newfound power with the speed and combination punching that’s made him so devastating at super middleweight and light heavyweight. "I feel like this weight is definitely gonna help me,” said Benavidez. “Once you get to this weight, the punches are bigger. When you combine that power with my speed, I bring something to the cruiserweight division that hasn't been seen since James Toney. My speed is superb and it's just on a different level. This is gonna be the best David Benavidez that you see.”
Trained in Miami and then Las Vegas leading into May, Benavidez also explained how he’ll be entering this fight with no concerns about making weight for the first time and detailed how that will help him be at his best on May 2nd. "My training camp hasn't really changed, but this is the most stress-free I've ever been,” said Benavidez. “Training is always gonna be hard, but I got to the weight a week ago already. I've never been in a position where I don't have to worry about the weight, and that's gonna make me more dangerous. When you cut weight you're running like seven miles every single day. Right now I don't have to run at all. I don't have to deplete myself, and I can use that extra energy in the fight.”
The reigning WBC and WBA champion at light heavyweight, Benavidez does believe that one day he’ll eventually try to make a run at a heavyweight title. However, that time is not now as his intent is still to go back to 175-pounds and unify all the titles. "A heavyweight title would be great for my legacy, but I'm not interested in that right now,” said Benavidez. “If I go up to heavyweight, that will be later in my career. I want to go back down to 175 and win all the rest of the belts and reign there for a little bit. I definitely think heavyweight is in my future, but not right now."
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Benavidez bids to become three-division champ this week
Undefeated two-division champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez will look to make history as he jumps up to the cruiserweight division to challenge unified WBA / WBO champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. That fight headlines a Cinco de Mayo weekend show on PBC pay-per-view this Saturday, May 2nd at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The 29 year-old Benavidez (pictured) can become the first fighter to win world titles at 168, 175 and 200 pounds [Badou Jack won a secondary title at 175, so he doesn't qualify] if he can grab the belts from Ramirez in a first-of-its-kind Mexico vs. Mexico matchup that will also serve as Benavidez’s first foray into the cruiserweight division.
"Continuing to move up and challenge world champions shows everyone that I'm serious about what I do, and that I believe in my skills 100%,” said Benavidez. “Making more history on May 2 would mean the world to me. At this point in my life, I just want to reach greatness. Winning these titles will definitely put me back in position to continue to push for more greatness. I'm just really happy with where I'm at in my career, and with all the risks I'm taking, because I believe it will all pay off when my career is all said and done.”
With this move up in weight, Benavidez plans to use the extra weight to his advantage, and combine newfound power with the speed and combination punching that’s made him so devastating at super middleweight and light heavyweight. "I feel like this weight is definitely gonna help me,” said Benavidez. “Once you get to this weight, the punches are bigger. When you combine that power with my speed, I bring something to the cruiserweight division that hasn't been seen since James Toney. My speed is superb and it's just on a different level. This is gonna be the best David Benavidez that you see.”
Trained in Miami and then Las Vegas leading into May, Benavidez also explained how he’ll be entering this fight with no concerns about making weight for the first time and detailed how that will help him be at his best on May 2nd. "My training camp hasn't really changed, but this is the most stress-free I've ever been,” said Benavidez. “Training is always gonna be hard, but I got to the weight a week ago already. I've never been in a position where I don't have to worry about the weight, and that's gonna make me more dangerous. When you cut weight you're running like seven miles every single day. Right now I don't have to run at all. I don't have to deplete myself, and I can use that extra energy in the fight.”
The reigning WBC and WBA champion at light heavyweight, Benavidez does believe that one day he’ll eventually try to make a run at a heavyweight title. However, that time is not now as his intent is still to go back to 175-pounds and unify all the titles. "A heavyweight title would be great for my legacy, but I'm not interested in that right now,” said Benavidez. “If I go up to heavyweight, that will be later in my career. I want to go back down to 175 and win all the rest of the belts and reign there for a little bit. I definitely think heavyweight is in my future, but not right now."
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Three Lions says it is still involved with Rozicki despite Zuffa signing |
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Three Lions Promotions confirms that Canadian cruiserweight Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (21-1-1, 20 KOs) has secured a multi-bout opportunity with Zuffa Boxing. Three Lions Promotions managing director Daniel Otter explained: “Three Lions Promotions will continue to play an active role in supporting Rozicki, who has been promoted by the Canadian-based promotional company since 2018, throughout the next phase of his career, working collaboratively to ensure Ryan is positioned for success at the highest level of the sport. Zuffa Boxing has been great to work with and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead.”
Known for his aggressive, crowd-pleasing style featuring incredible knockout power, Rozicki’s upcoming run of fights will have him competing against top-tier opponents as he continues his mission to become the first Canadian-born cruiserweight champion. His only loss was to Oscar Rivas (27-1, 19 KOs) in 2021, when Rozicki was outweighed by 20 pounds fighting at a higher weight for the WBA bridgerweight (224-pound) title.
“Three Lions Promotions has been with me from the beginning and is still an important part of my team as I take this next step,” Rozicki said. “Everything is now in place for me to succeed at the highest level. I’m already training and ready for my next opportunity. I can’t wait to get back in the ring.”
Between boxing politics and injuries, Rozicki has only fought twice in the past 2.5 years. Zuffa Boxing, though, also has a trio world-rated cruiserweights under contract -- Zuffa champion Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs), former WBO titleholder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (21-2, 13 KOs), and Brandon “Bulletproof” Glanton (21-4, 18 KOs) -- making a world-class fight much easier to make and considerably more lucrative for Rozicki than it’s ever been.
Sydney, Canada-native Rozicki, 30, last fought this past March 7th, knocking out Gerardo Mellado (12-4, 7 KOs) in round two. “We’ve built Ryan from the ground up and remain fully invested in his future,” Otter added. “This is just the beginning of what we firmly believe will be a life-changing chapter of Ryan’s boxing career and life.”
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Three Lions says it is still involved with Rozicki despite Zuffa signing
Three Lions Promotions confirms that Canadian cruiserweight Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (21-1-1, 20 KOs) has secured a multi-bout opportunity with Zuffa Boxing. Three Lions Promotions managing director Daniel Otter explained: “Three Lions Promotions will continue to play an active role in supporting Rozicki, who has been promoted by the Canadian-based promotional company since 2018, throughout the next phase of his career, working collaboratively to ensure Ryan is positioned for success at the highest level of the sport. Zuffa Boxing has been great to work with and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead.”
Known for his aggressive, crowd-pleasing style featuring incredible knockout power, Rozicki’s upcoming run of fights will have him competing against top-tier opponents as he continues his mission to become the first Canadian-born cruiserweight champion. His only loss was to Oscar Rivas (27-1, 19 KOs) in 2021, when Rozicki was outweighed by 20 pounds fighting at a higher weight for the WBA bridgerweight (224-pound) title.
“Three Lions Promotions has been with me from the beginning and is still an important part of my team as I take this next step,” Rozicki said. “Everything is now in place for me to succeed at the highest level. I’m already training and ready for my next opportunity. I can’t wait to get back in the ring.”
Between boxing politics and injuries, Rozicki has only fought twice in the past 2.5 years. Zuffa Boxing, though, also has a trio world-rated cruiserweights under contract -- Zuffa champion Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs), former WBO titleholder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (21-2, 13 KOs), and Brandon “Bulletproof” Glanton (21-4, 18 KOs) -- making a world-class fight much easier to make and considerably more lucrative for Rozicki than it’s ever been.
Sydney, Canada-native Rozicki, 30, last fought this past March 7th, knocking out Gerardo Mellado (12-4, 7 KOs) in round two. “We’ve built Ryan from the ground up and remain fully invested in his future,” Otter added. “This is just the beginning of what we firmly believe will be a life-changing chapter of Ryan’s boxing career and life.”
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Jared Anderson out of next week's fight |
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Queensberry Promotions reports that heavyweight contender Jared Anderson has been injured and won't fight next week. Here is the announcement: "Due to an injury sustained in camp, Jared Anderson is out of his scheduled bout with Solomion Dacres on the Don't Blimk card in Manchester, England on May 9th [headlined by Fabio Wardley's WBA heavyweight title defense against ex-IBF champ Daniel Dubois]. A replacement fight will be announced tomorrow and we lookj forward to Jarted making his Queensberry debut later this year."
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Jared Anderson out of next week's fight
Queensberry Promotions reports that heavyweight contender Jared Anderson has been injured and won't fight next week. Here is the announcement: "Due to an injury sustained in camp, Jared Anderson is out of his scheduled bout with Solomion Dacres on the Don't Blimk card in Manchester, England on May 9th [headlined by Fabio Wardley's WBA heavyweight title defense against ex-IBF champ Daniel Dubois]. A replacement fight will be announced tomorrow and we lookj forward to Jarted making his Queensberry debut later this year."
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Joshua facing Prenga with Fury fight being teased |
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His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudia Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, announced former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (pictured) will make his return to the ring on July 25th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia live worldwide on DAZN. The Olympic gold medallist and former two-time unified heavyweight world champion will headline a show at the Esports World Cup Festival, facing Kristian Prenga in a heavyweight showdown. Editor's note: Joshua-Prenga is expected to be a prelude to a much bigger bout later this year, Joshua vs. Tyson Fury, a battle of former heavyweight champions years in the making. Alalshikh, the most powerful man in boxing teased this possibility, tweeting, "To my friends in Great Britain - it’s happening. It’s signed."
Joshua enters the Prenga bout with a professional record of 28 wins and 4 losses, including 25 victories by knockout, with his most recent win coming by knockout against Jake Paul in December 2025. Joshua said: “It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back into the ring and today is the next step on that journey. I’m delighted to have agreed a multi-fight deal starting with July 25th in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I’m looking forward to competing and picking up where I left off. As I said, the landlord will collect his rent. That is certain.”
Over the past eight years, Joshua has been central to some of boxing’s biggest heavyweight events, capturing and unifying world titles with landmark wins over Wladimir Klitschko, Joseph Parker, Kubrat Pulev, and Andy Ruiz Jr.
He has also shared the ring in high-profile clashes against Oleksandr Usyk, Daniel Dubois, and Francis Ngannou, headlining several global stadium events including Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Standing in his way is Albanian heavyweight Prenga, who holds a record of 201-1 with 20 knockouts. The 35-year old, who turned professional in 2016, will be competing in the highest-profile bout of his career to date, marking his first appearance in a major international main event. Prenga said: “Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he made a terrible miscalculation in picking me as his opponent. This is the kind of fight that changes everything in my life and his. I know they have big plans ahead after this fight. I know they are overlooking me. I’m happy about that. I will derail their plans and shock the world this July in Saudi Arabia.”
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Joshua facing Prenga with Fury fight being teased
His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudia Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, announced former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (pictured) will make his return to the ring on July 25th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia live worldwide on DAZN. The Olympic gold medallist and former two-time unified heavyweight world champion will headline a show at the Esports World Cup Festival, facing Kristian Prenga in a heavyweight showdown. Editor's note: Joshua-Prenga is expected to be a prelude to a much bigger bout later this year, Joshua vs. Tyson Fury, a battle of former heavyweight champions years in the making. Alalshikh, the most powerful man in boxing teased this possibility, tweeting, "To my friends in Great Britain - it’s happening. It’s signed."
Joshua enters the Prenga bout with a professional record of 28 wins and 4 losses, including 25 victories by knockout, with his most recent win coming by knockout against Jake Paul in December 2025. Joshua said: “It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back into the ring and today is the next step on that journey. I’m delighted to have agreed a multi-fight deal starting with July 25th in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I’m looking forward to competing and picking up where I left off. As I said, the landlord will collect his rent. That is certain.”
Over the past eight years, Joshua has been central to some of boxing’s biggest heavyweight events, capturing and unifying world titles with landmark wins over Wladimir Klitschko, Joseph Parker, Kubrat Pulev, and Andy Ruiz Jr.
He has also shared the ring in high-profile clashes against Oleksandr Usyk, Daniel Dubois, and Francis Ngannou, headlining several global stadium events including Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Standing in his way is Albanian heavyweight Prenga, who holds a record of 201-1 with 20 knockouts. The 35-year old, who turned professional in 2016, will be competing in the highest-profile bout of his career to date, marking his first appearance in a major international main event. Prenga said: “Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he made a terrible miscalculation in picking me as his opponent. This is the kind of fight that changes everything in my life and his. I know they have big plans ahead after this fight. I know they are overlooking me. I’m happy about that. I will derail their plans and shock the world this July in Saudi Arabia.”
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Watch: Bank KO moves him up super middleweght ratings |
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Jacob Bank TKO5 Paulinus Ndjolonimu ... In Kolding, Denmark, Jacob Bank took a definitive step forward by dispatching Namibia’s Paulinus Ndjolonimu via knockout. Bank (19-0, 11 KOs) did not concede a single minute of action in front of his home crowd. The 25-year old dismantled Ndjolonimu (20-2, 18 KOs) from the opening bell. Bank’s technical superiority was solidified by a fifth-round body shot that left the African fighter without a response. Despite his experience, the 38 year-old Namibian was unable to beat referee Ali Oubaali’s count after being doubled over in the corner by the impact.
What's next for Bank? The bout "met all regulatory requirements as an official WBC eliminator" according to the WBC, but the sanctioning body was unclear whether this was a final eliminator and if so, for a shot at whom. In the wake of world super middleweight champion Terence Crawford's retirement, Christian Mbilli was recently elevated to WBC champion following his stint as interim titleholder. The WBC also recognizes Lest Martinez as interim champion, so Bank could wind up in line for either one of those two.
Following the win, Bank was forceful in his statements: “He has hands like a hammer, he can punch. But everybody knows I’m ready for the top. Give me the chance for a title fight. I’m ready.”
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Watch: Bank KO moves him up super middleweght ratings
Jacob Bank TKO5 Paulinus Ndjolonimu ... In Kolding, Denmark, Jacob Bank took a definitive step forward by dispatching Namibia’s Paulinus Ndjolonimu via knockout. Bank (19-0, 11 KOs) did not concede a single minute of action in front of his home crowd. The 25-year old dismantled Ndjolonimu (20-2, 18 KOs) from the opening bell. Bank’s technical superiority was solidified by a fifth-round body shot that left the African fighter without a response. Despite his experience, the 38 year-old Namibian was unable to beat referee Ali Oubaali’s count after being doubled over in the corner by the impact.
What's next for Bank? The bout "met all regulatory requirements as an official WBC eliminator" according to the WBC, but the sanctioning body was unclear whether this was a final eliminator and if so, for a shot at whom. In the wake of world super middleweight champion Terence Crawford's retirement, Christian Mbilli was recently elevated to WBC champion following his stint as interim titleholder. The WBC also recognizes Lest Martinez as interim champion, so Bank could wind up in line for either one of those two.
Following the win, Bank was forceful in his statements: “He has hands like a hammer, he can punch. But everybody knows I’m ready for the top. Give me the chance for a title fight. I’m ready.”
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Zayas extends deal with Top Rank |
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Puerto Rico's Xander Zayas, who began as a teenager and developed into a unified champion, is continuing his journey with the team that believed in him from the start. Zayas has signed a multi-year contract extension with Top Rank, keeping boxing’s youngest current two-belt titleholder with the promotional powerhouse as he enters the biggest fight of his career thus far. The 23-year old will defend his WBO/WBA junior middleweight titles against former unified welterweight champion Jaron Ennis on Saturday, June 27th in Brooklyn, New York LIVE on DAZN pay-per-view.
“We signed Xander at 16 and have watched him grow from a gifted teenager into a unified world champion,” said Top Rank president Todd duBoef. “He won his first world title at age 22, unified in his first defense, and is now preparing for the biggest fight of his career thus far. This successful partnership has grown his profile throughout the sports world and reinforces our confidence in Xander's future.”
“I'm blessed to continue representing Puerto Rico at the highest level of the sport with Top Rank,” said Zayas. “Thank you for all these years and for giving me the opportunity to grow and bring glory to my country and family. Now it's time to keep collecting victories and championships for many more years with the Top Rank family.”
“Xander’s path is a testament to Top Rank’s ability to develop talent the right way,” said Peter Kahn, Zayas’ manager. “We signed with them when he was just 16, and they’ve done a great job guiding him into a unified world champion. They also understand the Latino audience better than any promoter in boxing. Extending this partnership was the right strategic move as we now focus on more unifications, multiple divisions, global events, and defining Xander as one of the faces of the sport while building a lasting legacy at the highest level.”
In 2019, Zayas (23-0, 13 KOs) signed with Top Rank at age 16, becoming the youngest fighter ever added to the company’s roster. He steadily developed into one of the sport’s top young contenders, capturing regional titles in 2022 with victories over Elias Espadas and Alexis Salazar before rising to the #1 position in the WBO rankings. In July 2025, he defeated Jorge Garcia to capture the WBO world title less than two months shy of his 23rd birthday. In his first defense, he became the first Puerto Rican to unify world titles on the island by outpointing WBA champion Abass Baraou in January.
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Zayas extends deal with Top Rank
Puerto Rico's Xander Zayas, who began as a teenager and developed into a unified champion, is continuing his journey with the team that believed in him from the start. Zayas has signed a multi-year contract extension with Top Rank, keeping boxing’s youngest current two-belt titleholder with the promotional powerhouse as he enters the biggest fight of his career thus far. The 23-year old will defend his WBO/WBA junior middleweight titles against former unified welterweight champion Jaron Ennis on Saturday, June 27th in Brooklyn, New York LIVE on DAZN pay-per-view.
“We signed Xander at 16 and have watched him grow from a gifted teenager into a unified world champion,” said Top Rank president Todd duBoef. “He won his first world title at age 22, unified in his first defense, and is now preparing for the biggest fight of his career thus far. This successful partnership has grown his profile throughout the sports world and reinforces our confidence in Xander's future.”
“I'm blessed to continue representing Puerto Rico at the highest level of the sport with Top Rank,” said Zayas. “Thank you for all these years and for giving me the opportunity to grow and bring glory to my country and family. Now it's time to keep collecting victories and championships for many more years with the Top Rank family.”
“Xander’s path is a testament to Top Rank’s ability to develop talent the right way,” said Peter Kahn, Zayas’ manager. “We signed with them when he was just 16, and they’ve done a great job guiding him into a unified world champion. They also understand the Latino audience better than any promoter in boxing. Extending this partnership was the right strategic move as we now focus on more unifications, multiple divisions, global events, and defining Xander as one of the faces of the sport while building a lasting legacy at the highest level.”
In 2019, Zayas (23-0, 13 KOs) signed with Top Rank at age 16, becoming the youngest fighter ever added to the company’s roster. He steadily developed into one of the sport’s top young contenders, capturing regional titles in 2022 with victories over Elias Espadas and Alexis Salazar before rising to the #1 position in the WBO rankings. In July 2025, he defeated Jorge Garcia to capture the WBO world title less than two months shy of his 23rd birthday. In his first defense, he became the first Puerto Rican to unify world titles on the island by outpointing WBA champion Abass Baraou in January.
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Smith injury lifts Sandoval title defense to main event |
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Dalton Smith has been ruled out of his scheduled WBC junior welterweight title defense against Alberto Puello following an injury sustained during camp. The event on Saturday, June 6th at Sheffield, England's’s Utilita Arena – live worldwide on DAZN – will go ahead, however, headlined by a WBC / WBA World flyweight unification defense by champion Ricardo Sandoval (pictured) against Galal Yafai. Tickets are on sale now. Refunds, if required, are available via the original point of purchase.
Elsewhere on the stacked undercard, Josh Padley defends his EBU European 130-pound title against domestic rival, Aqib Fiaz... Undefeated teenage heavyweight Leo Atang fights in his native Yorkshire, with fellow unbeatens Adam Maca and Connor Mitchell are scheduled for separate bouts... Coventry middleweight Aaron Bowen takes on Troy Coleman... plus Ibraheem Sulaimaan battles Ibrahim Nadim for the English 130-pound title.
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Smith injury lifts Sandoval title defense to main event
Dalton Smith has been ruled out of his scheduled WBC junior welterweight title defense against Alberto Puello following an injury sustained during camp. The event on Saturday, June 6th at Sheffield, England's’s Utilita Arena – live worldwide on DAZN – will go ahead, however, headlined by a WBC / WBA World flyweight unification defense by champion Ricardo Sandoval (pictured) against Galal Yafai. Tickets are on sale now. Refunds, if required, are available via the original point of purchase.
Elsewhere on the stacked undercard, Josh Padley defends his EBU European 130-pound title against domestic rival, Aqib Fiaz... Undefeated teenage heavyweight Leo Atang fights in his native Yorkshire, with fellow unbeatens Adam Maca and Connor Mitchell are scheduled for separate bouts... Coventry middleweight Aaron Bowen takes on Troy Coleman... plus Ibraheem Sulaimaan battles Ibrahim Nadim for the English 130-pound title.
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BKFC results from Clearwater, FL |
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Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) hosted its third annual event in Clearwater, Florida on Friday at the sold-out OCC Roadhouse. An exciting new featherweight emerged as Quentin “QG” Gaskins of St. Petersburg, FL ran through Matt “The Silencer” Guymon in the 145-pound division [BKFC has different weight divisions compared to traditional boxing]. Gaskins sent Guymon to the canvas three times before their fight was stopped with just one second remaining in the second round. Gaskins is now 3-1 in BKFC action, with all of his wins coming by stoppage. “I’m one of the hardest hitting guys in this league, regardless of weight classes,” the fan-favorite Gaskins said in his post-fight interview. “I’m not coming out here just to win; I’m coming out here to walk a dog on that boy!” The Wichita, KS product Guymon is now 2-3 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
In the co-feature, “Royal” Ryan Reber rose to the occasion in his tenth BKFC fight, defeating Joshua “The Preacherman” Oxendine in a back-and-forth, five-round battle. Fighting in his hometown, Reber dropped Oxendine twice en route to the unanimous decision victory. Reber is now 8-2 in the squared circle, with four of those wins coming by stoppage. Reber entered fight night as the #2 contender in the BKFC bantamweight (135-pound) division and called out the winner of Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring's and Nate “Mayhem” Maness' battle for the vacant BKFC bantamweight title, which is scheduled for May 22nd in Palm Desert, California. Oxendine, who hails from Pembroke, NC, is now 4-4, 1 NC in his bare knuckle fighting career.
Denver’s Kat Paprocki improved to 2-1 under the BKFC banner by defeating Crystal “The Lovely” Van Wyk in a hard-fought, five-round battle. Two judges scored the strawweight bout 49-46 and one had it 50-45, all in favor of Paprocki. The South African-born Van Wyk is now 2-3 in her BKFC career.
Local man Tony “TMURPH” Murphy upped his record to 3-0 with a third straight stoppage victory over Skyler “The Phoenix” Mauller in the middleweight division. Murphy floored Mauller three times in the opening round, eventually leading to the standing-TKO finish 39 seconds into the second stanza. The New Lexington, Ohio product Mauller is now 1-3 in BKFC.
St. Petersburg, FL’s Mike Heckert sent Justin Walters to the canvas four times en route to the 78-second TKO victory in their welterweight matchup. Heckert is now 2-1 in the squared circle, with both of his wins coming by stoppage. Walters, who hails from Kentucky, is now 0-2 under the BKFC banner.
In his first fight in more than a year, St. Petersburg, FL’s Brandon “Superman” Allen reaffirmed his status as a contender in BKFC's featherweight division by cruising to 6-2 at the expense of Lukas “Clown” Jones. Allen scored a pair of knockdowns before the fight was called to a stop with two seconds left in the opening round. Allen is now 6-1 in his last seven fights, with all but one of those victories coming by stoppage. The Zephyrhills, FL fighter Jones was making his BKFC premiere.
Tampa, FL’s Frankie “Mr. Fundamentalz” Solomon Jr. was victorious in his BKFC debut, defeating Rickie “Crimson King” McConnico via unanimous decision. Two judges agreed on the 50-45 verdict while one scored it 49-46, all in favor of Solomon Jr. McConnico, who represents Birmingham, AL, was also making his BKFC debut.
Greensboro, NC’s Quintan “The Hitman” Foye earned his second BKFC victory with a unanimous decision over Jason “Spook” Dinunzio. Foye scored the lone knockdown of the night, leading to the nod from all three judges. Scores were 49-44 (twice) and 48-44. Foye is now 2-4 under the BKFC banner, while the Hudson, FL product Dinunzio is now 0-2.
Tampa, FL’s Terry “Neph” Williams won his BKFC debut by knocking out Bolo Carthon in the third round of their heavyweight fight. Time of the stoppage was 1:23 in the third stanza. Carthon, who hails from Atlanta, GA, is now 1-2 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
Clearwater’s Gabriel “The Wolfman” Hernandez also won his BKFC debut by knocking out Chachi Versace in the third round of their flyweight tilt. Hernandez logged a pair of knockdowns before the fight was stopped at 1:14 in the third frame. Versace, a product of Hudson, FL, is now 0-2-1 in BKFC.
Clearwater’s Anthony “God Given” Grubbs was victorious in his BKFC debut, knocking out Tommy “Showtime” Jungles 25 seconds into the third round of their lightweight fight in the opening matchup of the night. Jungles, who represents New Port Richey, FL, was also stepping into BKFC's squared circle for the first time.
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BKFC results from Clearwater, FL
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) hosted its third annual event in Clearwater, Florida on Friday at the sold-out OCC Roadhouse. An exciting new featherweight emerged as Quentin “QG” Gaskins of St. Petersburg, FL ran through Matt “The Silencer” Guymon in the 145-pound division [BKFC has different weight divisions compared to traditional boxing]. Gaskins sent Guymon to the canvas three times before their fight was stopped with just one second remaining in the second round. Gaskins is now 3-1 in BKFC action, with all of his wins coming by stoppage. “I’m one of the hardest hitting guys in this league, regardless of weight classes,” the fan-favorite Gaskins said in his post-fight interview. “I’m not coming out here just to win; I’m coming out here to walk a dog on that boy!” The Wichita, KS product Guymon is now 2-3 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
In the co-feature, “Royal” Ryan Reber rose to the occasion in his tenth BKFC fight, defeating Joshua “The Preacherman” Oxendine in a back-and-forth, five-round battle. Fighting in his hometown, Reber dropped Oxendine twice en route to the unanimous decision victory. Reber is now 8-2 in the squared circle, with four of those wins coming by stoppage. Reber entered fight night as the #2 contender in the BKFC bantamweight (135-pound) division and called out the winner of Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring's and Nate “Mayhem” Maness' battle for the vacant BKFC bantamweight title, which is scheduled for May 22nd in Palm Desert, California. Oxendine, who hails from Pembroke, NC, is now 4-4, 1 NC in his bare knuckle fighting career.
Denver’s Kat Paprocki improved to 2-1 under the BKFC banner by defeating Crystal “The Lovely” Van Wyk in a hard-fought, five-round battle. Two judges scored the strawweight bout 49-46 and one had it 50-45, all in favor of Paprocki. The South African-born Van Wyk is now 2-3 in her BKFC career.
Local man Tony “TMURPH” Murphy upped his record to 3-0 with a third straight stoppage victory over Skyler “The Phoenix” Mauller in the middleweight division. Murphy floored Mauller three times in the opening round, eventually leading to the standing-TKO finish 39 seconds into the second stanza. The New Lexington, Ohio product Mauller is now 1-3 in BKFC.
St. Petersburg, FL’s Mike Heckert sent Justin Walters to the canvas four times en route to the 78-second TKO victory in their welterweight matchup. Heckert is now 2-1 in the squared circle, with both of his wins coming by stoppage. Walters, who hails from Kentucky, is now 0-2 under the BKFC banner.
In his first fight in more than a year, St. Petersburg, FL’s Brandon “Superman” Allen reaffirmed his status as a contender in BKFC's featherweight division by cruising to 6-2 at the expense of Lukas “Clown” Jones. Allen scored a pair of knockdowns before the fight was called to a stop with two seconds left in the opening round. Allen is now 6-1 in his last seven fights, with all but one of those victories coming by stoppage. The Zephyrhills, FL fighter Jones was making his BKFC premiere.
Tampa, FL’s Frankie “Mr. Fundamentalz” Solomon Jr. was victorious in his BKFC debut, defeating Rickie “Crimson King” McConnico via unanimous decision. Two judges agreed on the 50-45 verdict while one scored it 49-46, all in favor of Solomon Jr. McConnico, who represents Birmingham, AL, was also making his BKFC debut.
Greensboro, NC’s Quintan “The Hitman” Foye earned his second BKFC victory with a unanimous decision over Jason “Spook” Dinunzio. Foye scored the lone knockdown of the night, leading to the nod from all three judges. Scores were 49-44 (twice) and 48-44. Foye is now 2-4 under the BKFC banner, while the Hudson, FL product Dinunzio is now 0-2.
Tampa, FL’s Terry “Neph” Williams won his BKFC debut by knocking out Bolo Carthon in the third round of their heavyweight fight. Time of the stoppage was 1:23 in the third stanza. Carthon, who hails from Atlanta, GA, is now 1-2 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
Clearwater’s Gabriel “The Wolfman” Hernandez also won his BKFC debut by knocking out Chachi Versace in the third round of their flyweight tilt. Hernandez logged a pair of knockdowns before the fight was stopped at 1:14 in the third frame. Versace, a product of Hudson, FL, is now 0-2-1 in BKFC.
Clearwater’s Anthony “God Given” Grubbs was victorious in his BKFC debut, knocking out Tommy “Showtime” Jungles 25 seconds into the third round of their lightweight fight in the opening matchup of the night. Jungles, who represents New Port Richey, FL, was also stepping into BKFC's squared circle for the first time.
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Philadelphia Art Museum premiers boxing exhibit |
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In a moment of reckoning and reimagining for monuments, why do millions of people from around the world visit the Rocky statue by the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art?Now through August 2nd, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is moving the Rocky statute inside the museum's four walls for an extended boxing exhibit called "Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments." The exhibit is organized by with collaboration from Monument Lab.
"Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments" traces more than two millennia of artists’ engagement with boxing and celebrity. Ancient sculptures, nineteenth-century European works, and images from the golden age of boxing in the United States, together with contemporary art, reveal how fighters have been shaped as public figures. More recently, artists including Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Glenn Ligon, Hank Willis Thomas, and Lisa Brice revisit this history through the lens of race, gender, and celebrity. These works illuminate what visitors project onto the Rocky statue: ideals of the underdog—perseverance, spirit, and grit—values shaped by the history of the sport and by lived struggle and aspiration.
Organized by guest curator Paul Farber, Director and Co-Founder of Monument Lab and host of the acclaimed podcast The Statue from NPR/WHYY, "Rising Up" will offer an art history of the Rocky statue, unpacking how this movie prop ultimately turned into a public art piece and site of global pilgrimage. The exhibition will showcase over 150 works by more than 50 artists. The accompanying publication, edited by Farber, includes contributions from celebrated Philadelphia artist Alex Da Corte, former Philadelphia Eagle and Super Bowl champion Malcolm Jenkins, and noted film critic Carrie Rickey.
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Philadelphia Art Museum premiers boxing exhibit
In a moment of reckoning and reimagining for monuments, why do millions of people from around the world visit the Rocky statue by the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art?Now through August 2nd, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is moving the Rocky statute inside the museum's four walls for an extended boxing exhibit called "Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments." The exhibit is organized by with collaboration from Monument Lab.
"Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments" traces more than two millennia of artists’ engagement with boxing and celebrity. Ancient sculptures, nineteenth-century European works, and images from the golden age of boxing in the United States, together with contemporary art, reveal how fighters have been shaped as public figures. More recently, artists including Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Glenn Ligon, Hank Willis Thomas, and Lisa Brice revisit this history through the lens of race, gender, and celebrity. These works illuminate what visitors project onto the Rocky statue: ideals of the underdog—perseverance, spirit, and grit—values shaped by the history of the sport and by lived struggle and aspiration.
Organized by guest curator Paul Farber, Director and Co-Founder of Monument Lab and host of the acclaimed podcast The Statue from NPR/WHYY, "Rising Up" will offer an art history of the Rocky statue, unpacking how this movie prop ultimately turned into a public art piece and site of global pilgrimage. The exhibition will showcase over 150 works by more than 50 artists. The accompanying publication, edited by Farber, includes contributions from celebrated Philadelphia artist Alex Da Corte, former Philadelphia Eagle and Super Bowl champion Malcolm Jenkins, and noted film critic Carrie Rickey.
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McKinson ventures into Nigeria this week |
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Michael ‘The Problem’ McKinson (27-2, 4 KOs) hopes to reestablish himself among Britain’s top welterweights when he faces unbeaten Algerian Mohammed Sahnoun (8-0, 6 KOs) on Friday, May 1st at the Balmoral Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria. The card is promoted by Amir Khan Promotions in association with Balmoral Group Promotions and will be televised live worldwide on DAZN. The bout marks McKinson’s long-awaited return following more than a year out of the ring, “It’s been a long road, but now we’ve got something positive to talk about,” said the Portsmouth southpaw a week before his fight. “This is my chance to remind people exactly where I belong.”
Across the ring from McKinson on Friday will be the Algerian-born, Spain-based Sahnoun, a 21-year-old prospect who has stopped 6 of his 8 opponents. “He’s looked good and he’s confident, but that comes from not putting a foot wrong yet,” said McKinson. “He’s been swimming with small fish. Now he’s stepping into deep water with a shark.”
Indeed, while Sahnoun fought all but one of his bouts in Spain against non-descript opposition, McKinson has been a globe trotter his whole career. Michael’s first four bouts took place in Belfast and he has been the away fighter in Gibraltar, Los Angeles, Texas, and Rome. Along the way, McKinson picked up five regional titles while facing the likes of world champion Vergil Ortiz and contenders including Chris Kongo, Alex Martin, and Luis Veron.
McKinson believes that the disparity in experience will be the difference on fight night. “I fought all over the world against every style: tall guys, young guys, confident guys,” explained McKinson. “Sahnoun hasn’t been through anything that prepares him for this. I’m going to take him to deep waters—and he’ll struggle to swim. There’s nothing he brings that I haven’t faced, but he’s never faced someone like me. I’ve been in those dark places in fights—I know what that feels like. He hasn’t.”
An elusive, highly skilled operator, McKinson has long been regarded as one of the most avoided fighters in the UK welterweight division. Despite his impressive résumé, ‘The Problem’ has often been overlooked in conversations alongside domestic names such as Conor Benn and Jack Catterall. “Every welterweight seems to get mentioned except me,” McKinson offered. “I’ve proven myself on the road time and time again, but I’ve had to sit back and watch the division move on without me.”
Frustrated but undeterred, McKinson remained active behind the scenes, traveling internationally for sparring and maintaining elite-level conditioning despite the layoff. His preparation for May 1 has included training camps in Rome and Scotland, along with the addition of a new strength and conditioning coach. “People think I’ve been inactive, but I’ve been in the gym,” he said. “I’ve stayed ready the whole time. When this opportunity came, the switch flipped straight away and increased our intensity.”
Now 32, McKinson believes he is entering his prime and is determined to make up for lost time. “I’m in my prime years—you don’t get these back,” he admitted. “After this, it’s full steam ahead. I want to be active and I want the big fights.”
A victory over the undefeated Sahnoun would position McKinson firmly back in the mix at both domestic and world level. “This fight gives me my voice back,” agreed McKinson. “I take care of business on Friday, and I’m right back in the conversation with all of them.”
Adding a personal anecdote to the bout, McKinson recently discovered Nigerian heritage through a family ancestry test, making his appearance in Lagos particularly meaningful. “My dad did an ancestry test last year, and it turns out he’s 25% Nigerian through his mother, who was born in Jamaica,” said McKinson. “Then I took the test, and lo and behold, I'm 13% Nigerian. Six months later, I get a fight in Nigeria. To find that out and then get this opportunity is wild. I’m looking forward to building a fan base there.”
Fans tuning in on DAZN can expect a composed but inspired performance from a fighter eager to prove he remains a major force in the division. “It’s been frustrating watching everything move while I’ve been inactive,” concluded McKinson. “But the fire’s still there. People didn’t mention my name and thought I was done—that’s all the motivation I need. I’m coming back to take this division by storm. This is where it starts.”
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McKinson ventures into Nigeria this week
Michael ‘The Problem’ McKinson (27-2, 4 KOs) hopes to reestablish himself among Britain’s top welterweights when he faces unbeaten Algerian Mohammed Sahnoun (8-0, 6 KOs) on Friday, May 1st at the Balmoral Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria. The card is promoted by Amir Khan Promotions in association with Balmoral Group Promotions and will be televised live worldwide on DAZN. The bout marks McKinson’s long-awaited return following more than a year out of the ring, “It’s been a long road, but now we’ve got something positive to talk about,” said the Portsmouth southpaw a week before his fight. “This is my chance to remind people exactly where I belong.”
Across the ring from McKinson on Friday will be the Algerian-born, Spain-based Sahnoun, a 21-year-old prospect who has stopped 6 of his 8 opponents. “He’s looked good and he’s confident, but that comes from not putting a foot wrong yet,” said McKinson. “He’s been swimming with small fish. Now he’s stepping into deep water with a shark.”
Indeed, while Sahnoun fought all but one of his bouts in Spain against non-descript opposition, McKinson has been a globe trotter his whole career. Michael’s first four bouts took place in Belfast and he has been the away fighter in Gibraltar, Los Angeles, Texas, and Rome. Along the way, McKinson picked up five regional titles while facing the likes of world champion Vergil Ortiz and contenders including Chris Kongo, Alex Martin, and Luis Veron.
McKinson believes that the disparity in experience will be the difference on fight night. “I fought all over the world against every style: tall guys, young guys, confident guys,” explained McKinson. “Sahnoun hasn’t been through anything that prepares him for this. I’m going to take him to deep waters—and he’ll struggle to swim. There’s nothing he brings that I haven’t faced, but he’s never faced someone like me. I’ve been in those dark places in fights—I know what that feels like. He hasn’t.”
An elusive, highly skilled operator, McKinson has long been regarded as one of the most avoided fighters in the UK welterweight division. Despite his impressive résumé, ‘The Problem’ has often been overlooked in conversations alongside domestic names such as Conor Benn and Jack Catterall. “Every welterweight seems to get mentioned except me,” McKinson offered. “I’ve proven myself on the road time and time again, but I’ve had to sit back and watch the division move on without me.”
Frustrated but undeterred, McKinson remained active behind the scenes, traveling internationally for sparring and maintaining elite-level conditioning despite the layoff. His preparation for May 1 has included training camps in Rome and Scotland, along with the addition of a new strength and conditioning coach. “People think I’ve been inactive, but I’ve been in the gym,” he said. “I’ve stayed ready the whole time. When this opportunity came, the switch flipped straight away and increased our intensity.”
Now 32, McKinson believes he is entering his prime and is determined to make up for lost time. “I’m in my prime years—you don’t get these back,” he admitted. “After this, it’s full steam ahead. I want to be active and I want the big fights.”
A victory over the undefeated Sahnoun would position McKinson firmly back in the mix at both domestic and world level. “This fight gives me my voice back,” agreed McKinson. “I take care of business on Friday, and I’m right back in the conversation with all of them.”
Adding a personal anecdote to the bout, McKinson recently discovered Nigerian heritage through a family ancestry test, making his appearance in Lagos particularly meaningful. “My dad did an ancestry test last year, and it turns out he’s 25% Nigerian through his mother, who was born in Jamaica,” said McKinson. “Then I took the test, and lo and behold, I'm 13% Nigerian. Six months later, I get a fight in Nigeria. To find that out and then get this opportunity is wild. I’m looking forward to building a fan base there.”
Fans tuning in on DAZN can expect a composed but inspired performance from a fighter eager to prove he remains a major force in the division. “It’s been frustrating watching everything move while I’ve been inactive,” concluded McKinson. “But the fire’s still there. People didn’t mention my name and thought I was done—that’s all the motivation I need. I’m coming back to take this division by storm. This is where it starts.”
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Magnesi vs. Garner eliminator lands in Southampton |
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In Southampton, England, the official press conference for the WBC junior lightweight eliminator was held at the iconic Southampton Stadium. The bout, scheduled for June 20th, will feature the WBC #1 contender Michael Magnesi, known as “LoneWolf,” against WBC #3 Ryan Garner, nicknamed “Piranha.” Throughout the event, both fighters displayed mutual respect and sportsmanship, fully aware that they are heading into a legitimate, demanding, and uncompromising battle. Magnesi’s trainer, Gesumino Aglioti, issued a stern statement to the international media: “We have waited for this title opportunity for a very long time. To get here, we had to endure sacrifices, difficult moments, and great resilience. Now it is Magnesi’s time, not yours. Yours will come, but not now.”
The press conference generated significant media coverage, attended by major networks such as the BBC, DAZN, and Queensberry Promotions, along with numerous British and international sports outlets. Promoter Alessandra Branco, together with the entire team and Magnesi himself, expressed their sincere gratitude to Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions for immediately accepting and organizing this pivotal fight. Magnesi was calm, focused, and confident. His preparation has reached its peak. On June 20th, it will be time for action.
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Magnesi vs. Garner eliminator lands in Southampton
In Southampton, England, the official press conference for the WBC junior lightweight eliminator was held at the iconic Southampton Stadium. The bout, scheduled for June 20th, will feature the WBC #1 contender Michael Magnesi, known as “LoneWolf,” against WBC #3 Ryan Garner, nicknamed “Piranha.” Throughout the event, both fighters displayed mutual respect and sportsmanship, fully aware that they are heading into a legitimate, demanding, and uncompromising battle. Magnesi’s trainer, Gesumino Aglioti, issued a stern statement to the international media: “We have waited for this title opportunity for a very long time. To get here, we had to endure sacrifices, difficult moments, and great resilience. Now it is Magnesi’s time, not yours. Yours will come, but not now.”
The press conference generated significant media coverage, attended by major networks such as the BBC, DAZN, and Queensberry Promotions, along with numerous British and international sports outlets. Promoter Alessandra Branco, together with the entire team and Magnesi himself, expressed their sincere gratitude to Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions for immediately accepting and organizing this pivotal fight. Magnesi was calm, focused, and confident. His preparation has reached its peak. On June 20th, it will be time for action.
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Subkhankulov scores four knockdowns to win in Ufa |
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Artur Subkhankulov TKO12 Bahodur Usmonov ... The main event in Ufa, Russia, saw local hero Artur Subkhankulov battle Tajikistan's Bahodur Usmonov to determine the mandatory challenger for the IBF lightweight title. Both men entered the ring with undefeated professional records and elite amateur pedigrees. The contest ignited instantly. Usmonov, boxing from a southpaw stance, sought to apply immediate pressure, forcing Subkhankulov to solve a complex tactical puzzle. While the early rounds were razor-thin, Subkhankulov’s left hand began to find its mark with a thudding force in the third, hurting Usmonov several times.
This adversity seemed to galvanize the Tajik boxer, who responded with an aggressive and accurate fourth round. Usmonov maintained a blistering tempo, but Subkhankulov continued to land heavy counters. For several rounds, the two traded momentum in a high-level chess match, setting traps and exchanging in entertaining fashion.
The decisive shift arrived in the tenth round when Subkhankulov sent Usmonov to the canvas twice during a fierce exchange. Sensing victory, Subkhankulov dropped him again at the start of the 11th and spent the remainder of the round in pursuit of the stoppage. The end came in the twelfth; Subkhankulov maintained his relentless momentum, scoring a fourth knockdown before the referee stepped in to wave the fight off. The TKO victory confirms Subkhankulov as a potential challenger for champion Raymond Muratalla.
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Subkhankulov scores four knockdowns to win in Ufa
Artur Subkhankulov TKO12 Bahodur Usmonov ... The main event in Ufa, Russia, saw local hero Artur Subkhankulov battle Tajikistan's Bahodur Usmonov to determine the mandatory challenger for the IBF lightweight title. Both men entered the ring with undefeated professional records and elite amateur pedigrees. The contest ignited instantly. Usmonov, boxing from a southpaw stance, sought to apply immediate pressure, forcing Subkhankulov to solve a complex tactical puzzle. While the early rounds were razor-thin, Subkhankulov’s left hand began to find its mark with a thudding force in the third, hurting Usmonov several times.
This adversity seemed to galvanize the Tajik boxer, who responded with an aggressive and accurate fourth round. Usmonov maintained a blistering tempo, but Subkhankulov continued to land heavy counters. For several rounds, the two traded momentum in a high-level chess match, setting traps and exchanging in entertaining fashion.
The decisive shift arrived in the tenth round when Subkhankulov sent Usmonov to the canvas twice during a fierce exchange. Sensing victory, Subkhankulov dropped him again at the start of the 11th and spent the remainder of the round in pursuit of the stoppage. The end came in the twelfth; Subkhankulov maintained his relentless momentum, scoring a fourth knockdown before the referee stepped in to wave the fight off. The TKO victory confirms Subkhankulov as a potential challenger for champion Raymond Muratalla.
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John Scully Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award |
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Jimmy Burchfield, the CEO of Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES), is a man who always shows respect to fighters, active or retired, and on Saturday night, he paid tribute to one of the biggest names in Connecticut boxing. Former light heavyweight title challenger “Iceman” John Scully was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from CES during a Hartford show that brought boxing back to the city for the first time in years. It was apropos that Scully was honored in the state’s capital, as he used to train out of Hartford, in numerous gyms, including Bellevue Square, the San Juan Center and the Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA). “I really appreciate this award very much,” said Scully, standing alongside Burchfield, Hartford-based attorney Jeffrey Dressler, and longtime friend Sammy Vega, one of a handful of fighters Scully closely mentored and led on the right path. Vega is the Chief Operating Officer of Dressler Law. A big boxing fan, as well as ring announcer in his spare time, Dressler used to make significant donations to the San Juan Center to pay for trips, building repairs and equipment for fighters, according to Scully.
In addition to his ring career, Scully was coaching kids while fighting and has become quite the pro trainer as well since hanging up the gloves. In fact, he was in Chad Dawson’s corner when Dawson upset the legendary Bernard Hopkins in April 2012. However, more than working corners of big fights, Scully has been a positive force across different gyms for decades, giving pointers, taking young boxers on trips to tournaments, advising healthy habits, you name it. He has literally impacted hundreds, if not thousands, of lives.
Pat Sullivan, CES’ director of operations, said at Saturday’s fight card, “John has shaped these fighters into not just better athletes but people…He’s always giving his time, his energy and his heart to the sport of boxing…so tonight we don’t just celebrate a career, we celebrate a legacy.”
Vega was a top notch amateur boxer in the 1990s, winning, among other titles, the 1997 National Junior Olympics at 95 pounds, as well as the 1998 National Silver Gloves at 106 pounds. “He’s the reason I’m here today,” Vega said of Scully. In addition to his law work, Vega is president of the Board of Directors for the CICD Hartford Puerto Rican Day Parade. There is also a belief Vega may run for mayor in the future.
“He’s the one that taught me how to be who I am today,” said Vega, “Not only as a boxer, but as a great mentor and father figure.” He described Scully’s honor as “well deserved.”
When Burchfield had a hand at the microphone, he noted what impresses him the most about Scully is “what you have done after your boxing career.” Besides his role as a trainer and mentor, Scully has also been raising funds for fighters in need for the better part of a decade now. Money raised goes directly to the families of former world champions Wilfredo Benitez, Gerald McClellan, as well as lesser known fighters in need of assistance.
When Scully, who had a career mark of 38-11 with 21 KOs, was asked to say a few words, he said he was impressed by the fight night turnout, adding, “When I was boxing, there were shows at the Hartford Civic Center every two months...Guys like Cuda Leeks, Troy Wortham, Papo Figueroa, Tyrone Booze and Maron Starling, these were the guys. There were 60 or 70 professional fighters just in Hartford.”
Scully, rather than merely accepting his award with standard thank you remarks, used his moment in center-ring to inform the crowd about his fundraising efforts, and to contact him if they’d like to assist. Sullivan noted that Scully “represents everything that this sport of boxing is supposed to stand for.”
Reflecting on his award, Scully told BoxingTalk.com, “It was a great honor to receive the plaque in front of all those Connecticut people and especially people like Sammy Vega, who played a major role in my coaching career.” He added, “When I first started boxing, I wanted to first be on big stages in Hartford, and then in Connecticut, and last night was kind of like me coming around full circle.”
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John Scully Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
Jimmy Burchfield, the CEO of Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES), is a man who always shows respect to fighters, active or retired, and on Saturday night, he paid tribute to one of the biggest names in Connecticut boxing. Former light heavyweight title challenger “Iceman” John Scully was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from CES during a Hartford show that brought boxing back to the city for the first time in years. It was apropos that Scully was honored in the state’s capital, as he used to train out of Hartford, in numerous gyms, including Bellevue Square, the San Juan Center and the Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA). “I really appreciate this award very much,” said Scully, standing alongside Burchfield, Hartford-based attorney Jeffrey Dressler, and longtime friend Sammy Vega, one of a handful of fighters Scully closely mentored and led on the right path. Vega is the Chief Operating Officer of Dressler Law. A big boxing fan, as well as ring announcer in his spare time, Dressler used to make significant donations to the San Juan Center to pay for trips, building repairs and equipment for fighters, according to Scully.
In addition to his ring career, Scully was coaching kids while fighting and has become quite the pro trainer as well since hanging up the gloves. In fact, he was in Chad Dawson’s corner when Dawson upset the legendary Bernard Hopkins in April 2012. However, more than working corners of big fights, Scully has been a positive force across different gyms for decades, giving pointers, taking young boxers on trips to tournaments, advising healthy habits, you name it. He has literally impacted hundreds, if not thousands, of lives.
Pat Sullivan, CES’ director of operations, said at Saturday’s fight card, “John has shaped these fighters into not just better athletes but people…He’s always giving his time, his energy and his heart to the sport of boxing…so tonight we don’t just celebrate a career, we celebrate a legacy.”
Vega was a top notch amateur boxer in the 1990s, winning, among other titles, the 1997 National Junior Olympics at 95 pounds, as well as the 1998 National Silver Gloves at 106 pounds. “He’s the reason I’m here today,” Vega said of Scully. In addition to his law work, Vega is president of the Board of Directors for the CICD Hartford Puerto Rican Day Parade. There is also a belief Vega may run for mayor in the future.
“He’s the one that taught me how to be who I am today,” said Vega, “Not only as a boxer, but as a great mentor and father figure.” He described Scully’s honor as “well deserved.”
When Burchfield had a hand at the microphone, he noted what impresses him the most about Scully is “what you have done after your boxing career.” Besides his role as a trainer and mentor, Scully has also been raising funds for fighters in need for the better part of a decade now. Money raised goes directly to the families of former world champions Wilfredo Benitez, Gerald McClellan, as well as lesser known fighters in need of assistance.
When Scully, who had a career mark of 38-11 with 21 KOs, was asked to say a few words, he said he was impressed by the fight night turnout, adding, “When I was boxing, there were shows at the Hartford Civic Center every two months...Guys like Cuda Leeks, Troy Wortham, Papo Figueroa, Tyrone Booze and Maron Starling, these were the guys. There were 60 or 70 professional fighters just in Hartford.”
Scully, rather than merely accepting his award with standard thank you remarks, used his moment in center-ring to inform the crowd about his fundraising efforts, and to contact him if they’d like to assist. Sullivan noted that Scully “represents everything that this sport of boxing is supposed to stand for.”
Reflecting on his award, Scully told BoxingTalk.com, “It was a great honor to receive the plaque in front of all those Connecticut people and especially people like Sammy Vega, who played a major role in my coaching career.” He added, “When I first started boxing, I wanted to first be on big stages in Hartford, and then in Connecticut, and last night was kind of like me coming around full circle.”
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Foster to defend vs. Ford in Houston |
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On Saturday, May 30th at the Fertitta Center in Houston, two-time champion O’Shaquie Foster (pictured) defends the WBC junior lightweight championship against former featherweight champ Raymond Ford. The fight will be broadcast on DAZN. Foster established himself as WBC champion by defeating Rey Vargas in an intense battle in 2023. In 2024, he lost the title to Robson Conceição, only to regain it later that year in a rematch. With refined technique and savvy ring IQ, Foster enters this bout with a record of 24-3, with 12 knockouts. Ford won the vacant WBA featherweight title in 2024, following an outstanding performance against Otabek Kholmatov, a twelfth-round stoppage. He lost the title to Nick Ball by split decision and then moved up in weight. With speed, precision, and offensive aggression, Ford has established himself as one of boxing’s underrated stars. He comes into this fight with a record of 18-1-1.
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Foster to defend vs. Ford in Houston
On Saturday, May 30th at the Fertitta Center in Houston, two-time champion O’Shaquie Foster (pictured) defends the WBC junior lightweight championship against former featherweight champ Raymond Ford. The fight will be broadcast on DAZN. Foster established himself as WBC champion by defeating Rey Vargas in an intense battle in 2023. In 2024, he lost the title to Robson Conceição, only to regain it later that year in a rematch. With refined technique and savvy ring IQ, Foster enters this bout with a record of 24-3, with 12 knockouts. Ford won the vacant WBA featherweight title in 2024, following an outstanding performance against Otabek Kholmatov, a twelfth-round stoppage. He lost the title to Nick Ball by split decision and then moved up in weight. With speed, precision, and offensive aggression, Ford has established himself as one of boxing’s underrated stars. He comes into this fight with a record of 18-1-1.
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Undercard results from Russia: Agrba wins |
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Khariton Agrba W10 Jerald Into... In Ufa, Russia, junior welterweight Khariton Agrba, the WBA #1 contender, defeated Jerald Into of the Philippines. Agrba made a measured start, allowing Into to work in the opening round while he gathered data. Into attacked willingly at different levels, though much of his offense was smothered by Agrba’s tight guard. The following two rounds were fought at a high tempo, featuring sharp, technical exchanges. Into continued to hunt for power shots, while Agrba utilised superior footwork, though a dominant lead remained elusive early on. By the fourth round, Agrba began to exert his will, backing his opponent up and piercing the guard with multi-level combinations. At the start of the sixth, Agrba landed several heavy shots that visibly shook Into, but the Filipino displayed immense resilience, refusing to buckle. Despite Into’s attempts to regain the initiative in the eighth and ninth, Agrba defended impeccably, staying compact and scoring heavily on the counter. All three judges eventually awarded the contest to Agrba by unanimous decision.
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ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Russia's Azalia Aminova faced Cynthia Ogunsemilore (NGR) for the WBA Asia title. Competing in a new weight category, the local favourite imposed herself from the opening bell, forcing her rhythm on the contest. While Ogunsemilore had moments of success, Aminova remained the more clinical and accurate operator. Aminova’s footwork was standout, as she varied the tempo and distance to keep her opponent off-balance. Throughout the eight rounds, she remained disciplined, picking Ogunsemilore off from range and refusing to be drawn into a stationary brawl. Aminova was awarded a clear unanimous decision.
The night opened with a bout between two Russian welterweights, Ilyas Naibkhanov and Karen Soloviev. Soloviev—a highly accomplished amateur, Russian Championships medallist, and International Master of Sport—took control almost immediately. From the opening bell, he applied relentless pressure, digging hard shots into both the head and body. Midway through the first round, Soloviev landed a precise right hand that sent Naibkhanov to the canvas for a heavy knockdown. Naibkhanov attempted to rally in the second round, surging forward to turn the tide, but Soloviev quickly neutralised the effort. Landing again with authority, Soloviev scored two further knockdowns; the latter proved final as Naibkhanov was unable to beat the count. With this clinical finish, Soloviev recorded the second knockout victory of his professional career.
The second contest featured Nathanael Kakololo (NAM) against the unbeaten Ruslan Selimyan (RUS). The bout began at close quarters, with both men trading power shots early on. While Kakololo pressed the action in the opening round, Selimyan adjusted well in the second, establishing a stiff jab that pushed his opponent back and allowed him to dictate the pace. The exchanges remained competitive, but Selimyan’s sharper use of the lead hand gradually gave him the edge. The fight came to an abrupt end in the fourth round when Kakololo slipped and injured his shoulder during the fall, leaving him unable to continue. Selimyan was awarded the victory, moving his professional record to 14–0.
A heavyweight clash followed between Teymuraz Surov (RUS) and local boxer Bekhan Israilov (RUS). Having met previously in the amateur ranks—where Surov was victorious—there was no need for a feeling-out process. Both men claimed the centre of the ring immediately, engaging in a sustained trade of heavy leather through a fairly even opening two rounds. Late in the second, however, Surov detonated a superb right hand that dropped Israilov. Although the local fighter managed to regain his feet, Surov sensed the finish and swarmed. Under increasing fire, Israilov’s corner was forced to throw in the towel, handing Surov a technical knockout victory.
Ufa’s own Danis Gabdrafikov (RUS) took on the unbeaten Rakhat Seitzhan (KAZ). Gabdrafikov started brightly, establishing an early advantage by controlling the distance, working effectively behind the jab, and finding a home for hard right hands to the body and overhand shots upstairs. Seitzhan adapted in the third and fourth rounds, closing the distance more effectively to frustrate the home fighter. However, from the fifth round onwards, Gabdrafikov regained his rhythm and began to dominate. His right overhand remained his most potent weapon; as the fight progressed, he doubled up his punches and varied his levels. Dictating the tempo through the later stages, Gabdrafikov won the clearer exchanges to earn a well-deserved unanimous decision.
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Undercard results from Russia: Agrba wins
Khariton Agrba W10 Jerald Into... In Ufa, Russia, junior welterweight Khariton Agrba, the WBA #1 contender, defeated Jerald Into of the Philippines. Agrba made a measured start, allowing Into to work in the opening round while he gathered data. Into attacked willingly at different levels, though much of his offense was smothered by Agrba’s tight guard. The following two rounds were fought at a high tempo, featuring sharp, technical exchanges. Into continued to hunt for power shots, while Agrba utilised superior footwork, though a dominant lead remained elusive early on. By the fourth round, Agrba began to exert his will, backing his opponent up and piercing the guard with multi-level combinations. At the start of the sixth, Agrba landed several heavy shots that visibly shook Into, but the Filipino displayed immense resilience, refusing to buckle. Despite Into’s attempts to regain the initiative in the eighth and ninth, Agrba defended impeccably, staying compact and scoring heavily on the counter. All three judges eventually awarded the contest to Agrba by unanimous decision.
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ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Russia's Azalia Aminova faced Cynthia Ogunsemilore (NGR) for the WBA Asia title. Competing in a new weight category, the local favourite imposed herself from the opening bell, forcing her rhythm on the contest. While Ogunsemilore had moments of success, Aminova remained the more clinical and accurate operator. Aminova’s footwork was standout, as she varied the tempo and distance to keep her opponent off-balance. Throughout the eight rounds, she remained disciplined, picking Ogunsemilore off from range and refusing to be drawn into a stationary brawl. Aminova was awarded a clear unanimous decision.
The night opened with a bout between two Russian welterweights, Ilyas Naibkhanov and Karen Soloviev. Soloviev—a highly accomplished amateur, Russian Championships medallist, and International Master of Sport—took control almost immediately. From the opening bell, he applied relentless pressure, digging hard shots into both the head and body. Midway through the first round, Soloviev landed a precise right hand that sent Naibkhanov to the canvas for a heavy knockdown. Naibkhanov attempted to rally in the second round, surging forward to turn the tide, but Soloviev quickly neutralised the effort. Landing again with authority, Soloviev scored two further knockdowns; the latter proved final as Naibkhanov was unable to beat the count. With this clinical finish, Soloviev recorded the second knockout victory of his professional career.
The second contest featured Nathanael Kakololo (NAM) against the unbeaten Ruslan Selimyan (RUS). The bout began at close quarters, with both men trading power shots early on. While Kakololo pressed the action in the opening round, Selimyan adjusted well in the second, establishing a stiff jab that pushed his opponent back and allowed him to dictate the pace. The exchanges remained competitive, but Selimyan’s sharper use of the lead hand gradually gave him the edge. The fight came to an abrupt end in the fourth round when Kakololo slipped and injured his shoulder during the fall, leaving him unable to continue. Selimyan was awarded the victory, moving his professional record to 14–0.
A heavyweight clash followed between Teymuraz Surov (RUS) and local boxer Bekhan Israilov (RUS). Having met previously in the amateur ranks—where Surov was victorious—there was no need for a feeling-out process. Both men claimed the centre of the ring immediately, engaging in a sustained trade of heavy leather through a fairly even opening two rounds. Late in the second, however, Surov detonated a superb right hand that dropped Israilov. Although the local fighter managed to regain his feet, Surov sensed the finish and swarmed. Under increasing fire, Israilov’s corner was forced to throw in the towel, handing Surov a technical knockout victory.
Ufa’s own Danis Gabdrafikov (RUS) took on the unbeaten Rakhat Seitzhan (KAZ). Gabdrafikov started brightly, establishing an early advantage by controlling the distance, working effectively behind the jab, and finding a home for hard right hands to the body and overhand shots upstairs. Seitzhan adapted in the third and fourth rounds, closing the distance more effectively to frustrate the home fighter. However, from the fifth round onwards, Gabdrafikov regained his rhythm and began to dominate. His right overhand remained his most potent weapon; as the fight progressed, he doubled up his punches and varied his levels. Dictating the tempo through the later stages, Gabdrafikov won the clearer exchanges to earn a well-deserved unanimous decision.
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Beloved publicist Bill Caplan passes away |
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The boxing world is mourning the death of old-school publicist Bill Caplan, a husband, father of five, grandfather of ten and a member of four hall of fames. Boxingtalk joins the chorus of the many who are sending their deepest sympathies to Caplan's friends and family. Here are just some of the tributes to him that have been pouring in over social media:
Boxing sportscaster Rich Marotta: "My friend, boxing publicist and hilarious story-teller Bill Caplan has passed away. Bill would kiss my bald head every time he saw me and always introduced me as the World's tallest Sicilian. Loved to sit with him in press room of big fights. Always knew I was in for laughs... [He was] one of boxing's real characters. [I've] known Bill more than 40 years, full of great stories, always good for laughs. Best friend of late famed sportswriter Alan Malamud, close pal and confidante of George Foreman. Will miss him."
Boxer-turned-promoter Dmitriy Salita: "Incredibly saddened by the passing of Bill Caplan — a Hall of Fame publicist and, more importantly, a real friend. A truly warm and generous person, he showed me great care from my pro debut through his final days. He will be greatly missed. He lived a remarkable life... An incredible human being and an exceptional professional. He showed me so much love and care from my early days as a 19-year-old fighting under the bright lights of Las Vegas. With Mr. Bill Caplan in my corner, I always felt secure and protected. A truly great man."
Promoter Lou DiBella: "Rest in peace, Bill. My condolences to all of Bill's family, good people and friends of many years. Uncle Bill Caplan was an old school sports publicist, the kind that aren't around anymore. He was a storyteller, and a historian, a loving father and grandfather, and a friend to so many in boxing and throughout sports, including me. [He had a] hall of fame career and life... [the] kinda guy I'm grateful to have known well."
Journalist Dan Rafael: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend Uncle Bill Caplan, the Hall of Fame publicist. We shared countless good times together over the past 25+ years. Condolences to his wonderful family and his many boxing friends."
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman: "I can’t believe the news about Bill Caplan passing away. Uncle Bill, my dearest friend, took me to Disneyland when I was 8 years old and had always been so close to me. God bless him forever and for eternity and to the family and so many friends worldwide, my sympathy and prayers."
Journalist Norm Frauenheim: "He was a publicist. But he was so much more. He was an Uncle with a gentle smile. He was a story teller, re-telling them to a writer under deadline with no time to listen. There was comfort in the stories. I wish I could hear one now from a friend like no other. RIP, Bill Caplan."
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Beloved publicist Bill Caplan passes away
The boxing world is mourning the death of old-school publicist Bill Caplan, a husband, father of five, grandfather of ten and a member of four hall of fames. Boxingtalk joins the chorus of the many who are sending their deepest sympathies to Caplan's friends and family. Here are just some of the tributes to him that have been pouring in over social media:
Boxing sportscaster Rich Marotta: "My friend, boxing publicist and hilarious story-teller Bill Caplan has passed away. Bill would kiss my bald head every time he saw me and always introduced me as the World's tallest Sicilian. Loved to sit with him in press room of big fights. Always knew I was in for laughs... [He was] one of boxing's real characters. [I've] known Bill more than 40 years, full of great stories, always good for laughs. Best friend of late famed sportswriter Alan Malamud, close pal and confidante of George Foreman. Will miss him."
Boxer-turned-promoter Dmitriy Salita: "Incredibly saddened by the passing of Bill Caplan — a Hall of Fame publicist and, more importantly, a real friend. A truly warm and generous person, he showed me great care from my pro debut through his final days. He will be greatly missed. He lived a remarkable life... An incredible human being and an exceptional professional. He showed me so much love and care from my early days as a 19-year-old fighting under the bright lights of Las Vegas. With Mr. Bill Caplan in my corner, I always felt secure and protected. A truly great man."
Promoter Lou DiBella: "Rest in peace, Bill. My condolences to all of Bill's family, good people and friends of many years. Uncle Bill Caplan was an old school sports publicist, the kind that aren't around anymore. He was a storyteller, and a historian, a loving father and grandfather, and a friend to so many in boxing and throughout sports, including me. [He had a] hall of fame career and life... [the] kinda guy I'm grateful to have known well."
Journalist Dan Rafael: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend Uncle Bill Caplan, the Hall of Fame publicist. We shared countless good times together over the past 25+ years. Condolences to his wonderful family and his many boxing friends."
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman: "I can’t believe the news about Bill Caplan passing away. Uncle Bill, my dearest friend, took me to Disneyland when I was 8 years old and had always been so close to me. God bless him forever and for eternity and to the family and so many friends worldwide, my sympathy and prayers."
Journalist Norm Frauenheim: "He was a publicist. But he was so much more. He was an Uncle with a gentle smile. He was a story teller, re-telling them to a writer under deadline with no time to listen. There was comfort in the stories. I wish I could hear one now from a friend like no other. RIP, Bill Caplan."
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Today: IBF lightweight eliminator streams on YouTube |
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On April 24th, Ufa, Russia will host an IBA professional show, headlined by an IBF lightweight eliminator between unbeaten contenders Artur Subkhankulov and Bahodur Usmonov. Thr winner will become the mandatory challenger and earn the right to fight unbeaten American Raymond Muratalla. Both men arrive with strong amateur pedigrees and serious ambitions. One of the key attractions on the card is the return of Khariton Agrba, one of the most notable Russian prospects in the professional game. This time, he faces Filipino puncher Jerald Into, who boasts 14 wins (11 by knockout) and only one defeat. Agrba enters the bout as the WBA #1 contender at 130 pounds. The event will begin at 12:30 CET (16:30 Ufa time) wit a live broadcast on the official IBA YouTube channel.
Special attention in Ufa will be on Azalia Aminova. For the local audience, hers is one of the most anticipated bouts of the evening, and there is little doubt she will enjoy strong support in the arena. The three-time Russian national amateur champion and BRICS Games winner will face Nigeria’s Cynthia Ogunsemilore. On one side is a local boxer with a proven amateur background and growing ambitions in the professional ranks; on the other is an unbeaten opponent with eight wins in eight contests. For Ufa, it should be one of the defining moments of the night.
The card also features another local boxer, Danis Gabdrafikov. A strong and experienced amateur, he is now building momentum in the professional ranks and currently holds a 5–0 record. Gabdrafikov is set to face Kazakhstan’s Rakhat Seitzhan, who is also unbeaten with 10 wins, six of them inside the distance.
5. Maria Karabanova brings a rare and fascinating coaching story
Another reason to watch the show is the presence of Maria Karabanova, trainer of one of the main event participants. A female trainer remains a rare figure in professional boxing, and in this case, she is far more than a symbolic presence in the corner. She is a coach doing serious work at a very high level. Karabanova has worked with Artur Subkhankulov from the very beginning, helping guide him to the position of world title contender. She also works with Danis Gabdrafikov, who is building a strong reputation of his own. Watching her in action is compelling; it is not only about preparing fighters for one particular night, but about seeing a coaching system and long-term development produce visible results.
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Today: IBF lightweight eliminator streams on YouTube
On April 24th, Ufa, Russia will host an IBA professional show, headlined by an IBF lightweight eliminator between unbeaten contenders Artur Subkhankulov and Bahodur Usmonov. Thr winner will become the mandatory challenger and earn the right to fight unbeaten American Raymond Muratalla. Both men arrive with strong amateur pedigrees and serious ambitions. One of the key attractions on the card is the return of Khariton Agrba, one of the most notable Russian prospects in the professional game. This time, he faces Filipino puncher Jerald Into, who boasts 14 wins (11 by knockout) and only one defeat. Agrba enters the bout as the WBA #1 contender at 130 pounds. The event will begin at 12:30 CET (16:30 Ufa time) wit a live broadcast on the official IBA YouTube channel.
Special attention in Ufa will be on Azalia Aminova. For the local audience, hers is one of the most anticipated bouts of the evening, and there is little doubt she will enjoy strong support in the arena. The three-time Russian national amateur champion and BRICS Games winner will face Nigeria’s Cynthia Ogunsemilore. On one side is a local boxer with a proven amateur background and growing ambitions in the professional ranks; on the other is an unbeaten opponent with eight wins in eight contests. For Ufa, it should be one of the defining moments of the night.
The card also features another local boxer, Danis Gabdrafikov. A strong and experienced amateur, he is now building momentum in the professional ranks and currently holds a 5–0 record. Gabdrafikov is set to face Kazakhstan’s Rakhat Seitzhan, who is also unbeaten with 10 wins, six of them inside the distance.
5. Maria Karabanova brings a rare and fascinating coaching story
Another reason to watch the show is the presence of Maria Karabanova, trainer of one of the main event participants. A female trainer remains a rare figure in professional boxing, and in this case, she is far more than a symbolic presence in the corner. She is a coach doing serious work at a very high level. Karabanova has worked with Artur Subkhankulov from the very beginning, helping guide him to the position of world title contender. She also works with Danis Gabdrafikov, who is building a strong reputation of his own. Watching her in action is compelling; it is not only about preparing fighters for one particular night, but about seeing a coaching system and long-term development produce visible results.
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MVP continues to sign the best women boxers |
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Most Valuable Promotions, the company owned by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, continued to expand its dominance over the sport of women's boxing. Weeks after announcing their broadcast deal with ESPN, MVP added yet another tranche of boxers to its roster. Here is MVP's tweet: "Welcome to the MVP family: Evelin Bermudez (22-1-1, 8 KOs) (unified 108-pound champion); Lourdes Juarez (39-4, 5 KOs) (108-pound champion); Irma Garcia (26-5-1, 6 KOs) (115-pound champion); Mayelli Flores (13-2-1, 4 KOs): Iyana Verduzco “Right Hook Roxy” (7-0, 1 KO); and
Brittany Sims 🇺🇸 (9-3, 5 KOs).
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MVP continues to sign the best women boxers
Most Valuable Promotions, the company owned by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, continued to expand its dominance over the sport of women's boxing. Weeks after announcing their broadcast deal with ESPN, MVP added yet another tranche of boxers to its roster. Here is MVP's tweet: "Welcome to the MVP family: Evelin Bermudez (22-1-1, 8 KOs) (unified 108-pound champion); Lourdes Juarez (39-4, 5 KOs) (108-pound champion); Irma Garcia (26-5-1, 6 KOs) (115-pound champion); Mayelli Flores (13-2-1, 4 KOs): Iyana Verduzco “Right Hook Roxy” (7-0, 1 KO); and
Brittany Sims 🇺🇸 (9-3, 5 KOs).
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Dalton Smith extends Matchroom contract |
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WBC junior welterweight champion Dalton Smith has signed a long-term contract extension with Matchroom Boxing. His next ring action will his first title defenbse, which will take place on home soil when he faces ex-title holder Alberto Puello at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena on Saturday, June 6th, live on DAZN. Smith follows in the footsteps of unified super flyweight champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez in putting pen to paper on a multi-fight agreement that exclusively ties him in with Eddie Heanr's Matchroom for years to come. “Matchroom Boxing backed me from day one. They allowed me to build at the right pace, to collect titles, to become a regular headliner in Sheffield and to focus on achieving my dream of becoming WBC world champion,” said Smith.
Smith continued, “I’m happy, I’m continuing to improve in the ring – and I know I’ve got the best team around me. There’s a lot of talk about loyalty these days, but my head hasn’t been turned. I’m delighted to commit my future to this winning team as we chase more success together. With Frank [Smith], Eddie and the wider Matchroom team, my advisor Sean O’Toole, and my whole training team led by my dad, we’ve got something special. This is the team that will take me to that next level. I will show everyone that I am the best 140lbs boxer in the world by collecting every belt in the division, and of course to box at Hillsborough along the way. First up is to deal with my WBC mandatory, Alberto Puello. With two WBC title fights on the bill, June 6 is going to be a massive night in Sheffield.”
Hearn, Matchroom's Sport Chairman, is thrilled to secure Smith’s signature and believes his stunning World Title win over Subriel Matias in the USA at the beginning of the year will prove to be the springboard to many more memorable nights for the Yorkshireman. “That night in Brooklyn ranks up there for me as one of the greatest away day wins from any British fighter,” said Hearn. “The celebrations were euphoric and the memories will live forever. But this young man is not only the fighting pride of Sheffield, he’s a future Hall of Famer for British boxing – and I believe there are many more special nights on the horizon for him, starting on June 6 at the Utilita Arena, live on DAZN. I’m so pleased that he has signed a long-term deal with us. We can begin to manuever a very exciting future ahead. The road to undisputed begins now.”
Former champion Skye Nicolson – who headlines in Australia next week in Melbourne against Mariah Turner on Wednesday, April 29th – is another star boxer who signed a long-term deal with Matchroom recently, along with British & Commonwealth middleweight holder George Liddard and English lightweight titlist Giorgio Visioli.
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Dalton Smith extends Matchroom contract
WBC junior welterweight champion Dalton Smith has signed a long-term contract extension with Matchroom Boxing. His next ring action will his first title defenbse, which will take place on home soil when he faces ex-title holder Alberto Puello at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena on Saturday, June 6th, live on DAZN. Smith follows in the footsteps of unified super flyweight champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez in putting pen to paper on a multi-fight agreement that exclusively ties him in with Eddie Heanr's Matchroom for years to come. “Matchroom Boxing backed me from day one. They allowed me to build at the right pace, to collect titles, to become a regular headliner in Sheffield and to focus on achieving my dream of becoming WBC world champion,” said Smith.
Smith continued, “I’m happy, I’m continuing to improve in the ring – and I know I’ve got the best team around me. There’s a lot of talk about loyalty these days, but my head hasn’t been turned. I’m delighted to commit my future to this winning team as we chase more success together. With Frank [Smith], Eddie and the wider Matchroom team, my advisor Sean O’Toole, and my whole training team led by my dad, we’ve got something special. This is the team that will take me to that next level. I will show everyone that I am the best 140lbs boxer in the world by collecting every belt in the division, and of course to box at Hillsborough along the way. First up is to deal with my WBC mandatory, Alberto Puello. With two WBC title fights on the bill, June 6 is going to be a massive night in Sheffield.”
Hearn, Matchroom's Sport Chairman, is thrilled to secure Smith’s signature and believes his stunning World Title win over Subriel Matias in the USA at the beginning of the year will prove to be the springboard to many more memorable nights for the Yorkshireman. “That night in Brooklyn ranks up there for me as one of the greatest away day wins from any British fighter,” said Hearn. “The celebrations were euphoric and the memories will live forever. But this young man is not only the fighting pride of Sheffield, he’s a future Hall of Famer for British boxing – and I believe there are many more special nights on the horizon for him, starting on June 6 at the Utilita Arena, live on DAZN. I’m so pleased that he has signed a long-term deal with us. We can begin to manuever a very exciting future ahead. The road to undisputed begins now.”
Former champion Skye Nicolson – who headlines in Australia next week in Melbourne against Mariah Turner on Wednesday, April 29th – is another star boxer who signed a long-term deal with Matchroom recently, along with British & Commonwealth middleweight holder George Liddard and English lightweight titlist Giorgio Visioli.
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Chavez Jr. fights this weekend |
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Former WBC middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr., now a 39 year-old cruiserweight, will return to action on April 25th when he faces Colombia's Jhon Caicedo in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Caicedo is 13-1, but last fought at light heavyweight, where he was KO'd early by Avni Yildirim in 2025. The son of the legendary champion Julio César Chávez, is aiming to regain relevance in the sport and this bout represents a key opportunity for the Mexican fighter, who became world champion in 2011. Chávez Jr. (55-7-1 with 35 KOs) was deported from the United States following a loss to Jake Paul last year.
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Chavez Jr. fights this weekend
Former WBC middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr., now a 39 year-old cruiserweight, will return to action on April 25th when he faces Colombia's Jhon Caicedo in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Caicedo is 13-1, but last fought at light heavyweight, where he was KO'd early by Avni Yildirim in 2025. The son of the legendary champion Julio César Chávez, is aiming to regain relevance in the sport and this bout represents a key opportunity for the Mexican fighter, who became world champion in 2011. Chávez Jr. (55-7-1 with 35 KOs) was deported from the United States following a loss to Jake Paul last year.
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Houston action set for Friday |
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BiYu Brawl 6 takes place this Friday night (April 24th) in Houston, Texas. The event will feature six bouts, highlighted by Gabriel Rodriguez (1-5-1) of Las Cruces, New Mexico taking on hometown big man Tyrone "Big Truck" Nash (3-0, 1 KO) in a heavyweight six rounder. Also on the show, Houston junior welterweight Ty "Trillest" Cassell (2-0, 1KO) puts his undefeated record on the line against Jarren Hayes of Bartlesville, Oklahoma who will be making his professional boxing debut in a four-round showdown. JoJo Hernandez and Hector "Macho" Camacho Jr will be commentating the live stream. The event will take place at the new state of the art BiYu Arena. For tickets, go to BiYuPromotions.com. The ring announcer will be Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt.
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Houston action set for Friday
BiYu Brawl 6 takes place this Friday night (April 24th) in Houston, Texas. The event will feature six bouts, highlighted by Gabriel Rodriguez (1-5-1) of Las Cruces, New Mexico taking on hometown big man Tyrone "Big Truck" Nash (3-0, 1 KO) in a heavyweight six rounder. Also on the show, Houston junior welterweight Ty "Trillest" Cassell (2-0, 1KO) puts his undefeated record on the line against Jarren Hayes of Bartlesville, Oklahoma who will be making his professional boxing debut in a four-round showdown. JoJo Hernandez and Hector "Macho" Camacho Jr will be commentating the live stream. The event will take place at the new state of the art BiYu Arena. For tickets, go to BiYuPromotions.com. The ring announcer will be Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt.
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Edinburg, TX to host eight-bout show on Saturday |
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GT Promotions is set to bring an exciting evening of professional boxing to Edinburg, Texas this Saturday night (April 25th). The event will feature eight bouts in total. The main event will be Roberto Almazan Monreal (13-27-1, 5 KOs) hoping to derail the progress of Fabian "The Unknown Warrior" Diaz (10-0-1, 4 KOs) in a four-round junior welterweight bout. The co-feature event pits "The Assassin" Eduardo Camacho (1-1) of San Benito, TX against local man Isaac "The Kid" Muniz (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four rounder in the middleweight division. There will also be pro debuts and undefeated fighters in action. GT Promotions' principals Raul "Tigre" Casarez and Hector "Los Brazos" Cavazos say that a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit a selected autism foundation. Bell time will be 7:30PM and it will take place at the Edinburg Activity Center located at 123 Mark S. Pena Drive. Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt will be the ring announcer.
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Edinburg, TX to host eight-bout show on Saturday
GT Promotions is set to bring an exciting evening of professional boxing to Edinburg, Texas this Saturday night (April 25th). The event will feature eight bouts in total. The main event will be Roberto Almazan Monreal (13-27-1, 5 KOs) hoping to derail the progress of Fabian "The Unknown Warrior" Diaz (10-0-1, 4 KOs) in a four-round junior welterweight bout. The co-feature event pits "The Assassin" Eduardo Camacho (1-1) of San Benito, TX against local man Isaac "The Kid" Muniz (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four rounder in the middleweight division. There will also be pro debuts and undefeated fighters in action. GT Promotions' principals Raul "Tigre" Casarez and Hector "Los Brazos" Cavazos say that a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit a selected autism foundation. Bell time will be 7:30PM and it will take place at the Edinburg Activity Center located at 123 Mark S. Pena Drive. Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt will be the ring announcer.
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Boxingtalk salutes the late Miguel Canto |
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Boxingtalk belatedly salutes Mexican boxing icon Miguel Canto Solís, who boxed under the name Miguel Canto and was nicknamed “El Maestro” and “The Little Master” due to his refined technical brilliance. Canto passed away at the age of 78 on April 16th in his hometown of Mérida in Mexico's Yucatán. While the exact cause has not been officially determined, medical reports point to a severe chronic neurodegenerative condition that had affected him in recent years. Canto reigned as WBC flyweight world champion from 1975 through 1979. During that stretch, he defended his title 15 times, winning his first 14 defenses before losing the crown by unanimous decision to South Korea’s Chang Hee Park. By then, Canto was 31 years old and had already spent a decade in the professional ranks, having debuted in 1969, with a third-round stoppage **loss** to Raúl Hernández — one of just nine defeats in a career that included 61 victories, 15 by knockout, and four draws.
Canto was the first boxer from Yucatán to reach the pinnacle of world championship boxing. To this day, he remains the only fighter from that Mexican state inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York. Other Yucatán-born champions include Gustavo “Guty” Espadas, Freddy Castillo and Lupe Madera — but none matched the technical artistry and global recognition of Canto.
Canto's early career was rocky: a knockout loss in his debut, followed by another defeat shortly thereafter. But under the guidance of his lifelong trainer Jesús “Cholain” Rivero — a university-trained philosopher who dedicated himself to boxing out of passion — Canto refined his style and corrected key technical flaws.
What emerged was one of the purest embodiments of boxing’s core principle: hit and don’t get hit. As he built his career, Canto developed into a master technician, combining footwork, timing, and defensive awareness to neutralize opponents. After a series of wins, draws, and setbacks, he earned his first shot at the WBC flyweight title on August 4, 1973, in Maracaibo, Venezuela against Betulio González. Fighting in hostile territory, he dropped a hard-fought fifteen-round decision.
His redemption came on January 8, 1975, in Sendai, Japan, where he defeated Shoji Oguma in a grueling battle to claim the world title. From there, Canto embarked on a dominant championship run, taking on all challengers across the globe. He successfully defended his title against a roster of top flyweights, including revenge vs. González, Jiro Takada, Ignacio Espinal, Susumu Hanagata, Orlando Javierto, Luis Reyes Arnal, Kimio Furesawa, Martín Vargas, and Oguma in a rematch, among others. His reign was defined not by knockout power, but by surgical precision and ring intelligence.
Canto finally lost his title to Chang Hee Park in South Korea in 1979 and later fought to a draw in their rematch. After a few more bouts, including wins and eventual losses as wear and tear took their toll, he retired in 1982 — closing the book on a remarkable career.
Canto is universally regarded by boxing historians as one of the ten greatest flyweights of all time. That elite list is often topped by Welsh legend Jimmy Wilde, “The Mighty Atom,” who dominated the division in the early 20th century. Alongside Canto and Wilde are names like Masao Ohba, Pone Kingpetch, Peter Kane, Benny Lynch, Pascual Pérez, Frankie Genaro, Pancho Villa, Midget Wolgast, Fidel La Barba, and Betulio González — a collection of fighters who defined excellence at 112 pounds.
Miguel Canto may not have been a knockout artist, but he was something rarer: a master craftsman inside the ring. Boxingtalk joins the WBA, the WBC and the entire boxing community in saluting the great Maestro and sending our deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Miguel Canto.
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Boxingtalk salutes the late Miguel Canto
Boxingtalk belatedly salutes Mexican boxing icon Miguel Canto Solís, who boxed under the name Miguel Canto and was nicknamed “El Maestro” and “The Little Master” due to his refined technical brilliance. Canto passed away at the age of 78 on April 16th in his hometown of Mérida in Mexico's Yucatán. While the exact cause has not been officially determined, medical reports point to a severe chronic neurodegenerative condition that had affected him in recent years. Canto reigned as WBC flyweight world champion from 1975 through 1979. During that stretch, he defended his title 15 times, winning his first 14 defenses before losing the crown by unanimous decision to South Korea’s Chang Hee Park. By then, Canto was 31 years old and had already spent a decade in the professional ranks, having debuted in 1969, with a third-round stoppage **loss** to Raúl Hernández — one of just nine defeats in a career that included 61 victories, 15 by knockout, and four draws.
Canto was the first boxer from Yucatán to reach the pinnacle of world championship boxing. To this day, he remains the only fighter from that Mexican state inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York. Other Yucatán-born champions include Gustavo “Guty” Espadas, Freddy Castillo and Lupe Madera — but none matched the technical artistry and global recognition of Canto.
Canto's early career was rocky: a knockout loss in his debut, followed by another defeat shortly thereafter. But under the guidance of his lifelong trainer Jesús “Cholain” Rivero — a university-trained philosopher who dedicated himself to boxing out of passion — Canto refined his style and corrected key technical flaws.
What emerged was one of the purest embodiments of boxing’s core principle: hit and don’t get hit. As he built his career, Canto developed into a master technician, combining footwork, timing, and defensive awareness to neutralize opponents. After a series of wins, draws, and setbacks, he earned his first shot at the WBC flyweight title on August 4, 1973, in Maracaibo, Venezuela against Betulio González. Fighting in hostile territory, he dropped a hard-fought fifteen-round decision.
His redemption came on January 8, 1975, in Sendai, Japan, where he defeated Shoji Oguma in a grueling battle to claim the world title. From there, Canto embarked on a dominant championship run, taking on all challengers across the globe. He successfully defended his title against a roster of top flyweights, including revenge vs. González, Jiro Takada, Ignacio Espinal, Susumu Hanagata, Orlando Javierto, Luis Reyes Arnal, Kimio Furesawa, Martín Vargas, and Oguma in a rematch, among others. His reign was defined not by knockout power, but by surgical precision and ring intelligence.
Canto finally lost his title to Chang Hee Park in South Korea in 1979 and later fought to a draw in their rematch. After a few more bouts, including wins and eventual losses as wear and tear took their toll, he retired in 1982 — closing the book on a remarkable career.
Canto is universally regarded by boxing historians as one of the ten greatest flyweights of all time. That elite list is often topped by Welsh legend Jimmy Wilde, “The Mighty Atom,” who dominated the division in the early 20th century. Alongside Canto and Wilde are names like Masao Ohba, Pone Kingpetch, Peter Kane, Benny Lynch, Pascual Pérez, Frankie Genaro, Pancho Villa, Midget Wolgast, Fidel La Barba, and Betulio González — a collection of fighters who defined excellence at 112 pounds.
Miguel Canto may not have been a knockout artist, but he was something rarer: a master craftsman inside the ring. Boxingtalk joins the WBA, the WBC and the entire boxing community in saluting the great Maestro and sending our deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Miguel Canto.
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Warren "gutted" about canceled show after Okolie positive doping test |
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In the wake of heavyweight Lawrence Okolie failing a doping test, promoter Frank Warren (pictured) issued the following statement on behalf of Queensberry, the promoter of this week's now-canceled Paris show: "[I am] completely gutted to have to cancel the show in Paris this weekend. Ourselves and the DAZN team in France worked incredibly hard to try to keep the show alive but ultimately it wasn’t possible. It’s a real shame for the fighters who worked hard in camp, the fans that bought tickets and our broadcast partner DAZN, but sadly it’s a situation none of us could have predicted. The French supporters have been marvellous and there’s clearly a real passion for boxing so we hope to have news for them soon."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
APRIL 21, 2026: Queensberry Promotions has just revealed that "the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) has informed Queensberry that heavyweight Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following ant anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris [scheduled for] this Saturday. A further update regarding the event will be made in due course." A few hours later, Queensberry announced that "Due to circumstances outside of our control, Queensberry and DAZN have regrettably made the decision to cancel this Saturday's scheduled event in Paris. For refunds, please contact your ticket [vendor]." Okolie, who has held world titles at cruiserweight and bridgerweight, was set to fight former Olympic champion Tony Yoka in Yoka's hometown this weekend.
Okolie posted the following statement on his Instagram account: "Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp. I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails. I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name. I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon."
Completely gutted to have to cancel the show in Paris this weekend.
Ourselves and the DAZN team in France worked incredibly hard to try to keep the show alive but ultimately it wasn’t possible.
It’s a real shame for the fighters who worked hard in camp, the fans that bought tickets and our broadcast partner DAZN, but sadly it’s a situation none of us could have predicted.
The French supporters have been marvellous and there’s clearly a real passion for boxing so we hope to have news for them soon.
With the spotlight set for Atlanta on May 9th, Ra’eese Aleem is entering the biggest fight of his career with momentum, determination, and one clear objective—to leave as the new IBF featherweight world champion.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
APRIL 21, 2026: Queensberry Promotions has just revealed that "the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) has informed Queensberry that heavyweight Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following ant anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris [scheduled for] this Saturday. A further update regarding the event will be made in due course." A few hours later, Queensberry announced that "Due to circumstances outside of our control, Queensberry and DAZN have regrettably made the decision to cancel this Saturday's scheduled event in Paris. For refunds, please contact your ticket [vendor]." Okolie, who has held world titles at cruiserweight and bridgerweight, was set to fight former Olympic champion Tony Yoka in Yoka's hometown this weekend.
Okolie posted the following statement on his Instagram account: "Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp. I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails. I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name. I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon."
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Warren "gutted" about canceled show after Okolie positive doping test
In the wake of heavyweight Lawrence Okolie failing a doping test, promoter Frank Warren (pictured) issued the following statement on behalf of Queensberry, the promoter of this week's now-canceled Paris show: "[I am] completely gutted to have to cancel the show in Paris this weekend. Ourselves and the DAZN team in France worked incredibly hard to try to keep the show alive but ultimately it wasn’t possible. It’s a real shame for the fighters who worked hard in camp, the fans that bought tickets and our broadcast partner DAZN, but sadly it’s a situation none of us could have predicted. The French supporters have been marvellous and there’s clearly a real passion for boxing so we hope to have news for them soon."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
APRIL 21, 2026: Queensberry Promotions has just revealed that "the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) has informed Queensberry that heavyweight Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following ant anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris [scheduled for] this Saturday. A further update regarding the event will be made in due course." A few hours later, Queensberry announced that "Due to circumstances outside of our control, Queensberry and DAZN have regrettably made the decision to cancel this Saturday's scheduled event in Paris. For refunds, please contact your ticket [vendor]." Okolie, who has held world titles at cruiserweight and bridgerweight, was set to fight former Olympic champion Tony Yoka in Yoka's hometown this weekend.
Okolie posted the following statement on his Instagram account: "Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp. I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails. I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name. I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon."
Completely gutted to have to cancel the show in Paris this weekend.
Ourselves and the DAZN team in France worked incredibly hard to try to keep the show alive but ultimately it wasn’t possible.
It’s a real shame for the fighters who worked hard in camp, the fans that bought tickets and our broadcast partner DAZN, but sadly it’s a situation none of us could have predicted.
The French supporters have been marvellous and there’s clearly a real passion for boxing so we hope to have news for them soon.
With the spotlight set for Atlanta on May 9th, Ra’eese Aleem is entering the biggest fight of his career with momentum, determination, and one clear objective—to leave as the new IBF featherweight world champion.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
APRIL 21, 2026: Queensberry Promotions has just revealed that "the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) has informed Queensberry that heavyweight Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following ant anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris [scheduled for] this Saturday. A further update regarding the event will be made in due course." A few hours later, Queensberry announced that "Due to circumstances outside of our control, Queensberry and DAZN have regrettably made the decision to cancel this Saturday's scheduled event in Paris. For refunds, please contact your ticket [vendor]." Okolie, who has held world titles at cruiserweight and bridgerweight, was set to fight former Olympic champion Tony Yoka in Yoka's hometown this weekend.
Okolie posted the following statement on his Instagram account: "Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp. I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails. I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name. I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon."
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