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Undisputed Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields and Former Champion Ivana Habazin Meet for WBO Junior Middleweight Title Saturday, October 5 Live On SHOWTIME® From Flint, Mich.

2019-10-04T17:55:00.000-04:00

Undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields participated in a media workout in Miami on Tuesday in preparation for her upcoming showdown with Ivana Habazin next Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME from Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Flint, Michigan.

Shields will look to become the fastest fighter in history, male or female, to win world titles in three divisions when she faces Habazin for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION in her hometown of Flint.

Also participating in Tuesday’s workout was IBO Super Welterweight Champion Hannah Rankin, who competes in a non-televised undercard attraction next Saturday.

Shields vs. Habazin is promoted by Salita Promotions. Tickets for the live event can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office.

In the televised co-feature on October 5, undefeated welterweight sensation Jaron Ennis will return to national television against once-beaten Demian Daniel Fernandez in a 10-round bout. In the SHOWTIME opener, undefeated heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin will face once-beaten Pavel Šour less than an hour from his hometown of Saginaw, Mich.

Here’s what the fighters had to say on Tuesday from the famed 5^th Street Gym in Miami Beach:

CLARESSA SHIELDS, Undisputed Middleweight World Champion

“I love boxing and I love that I’m one of the women who is carrying the sport, making it bigger and more well known. We’re getting more respect.

“There are fighters out there who believe that they can beat me and that really motivates me. That’s why I train and put in the time that I do.

“I want to show everybody that I’m a truly great fighter. I can beat Vasiliy Lomachenko’s record of winning titles in three divisions in 10 fights instead of 12. Plus, I’m going backwards, not going up in weight, where there are better challenges for me.

“My performances will lead to bigger fights and bigger purses for me and my opponents. I’m just going to keep building my name and building my brand.

“With this fight against Habazin, I’m definitely going in looking for the knockout. If I get it in spectacular fashion, that will go viral and help push my career forward.

“It means everything to have this fight back in my hometown. I want to be the good news for Flint and make people smile. I’m happy to be bringing a fight back home while I’m still on top. I feel like Flint will be uplifted by that.

“Everyone back home is really excited for this event. It’s going to be a huge homecoming for me on October 5.

“Muhammad Ali has trained here at 5^th Street Gym and every time I train here I feel like I’m in his presence. It makes me want to be even greater. He’s the GOAT and I’m going to be the GWOAT.

“Being here in Florida is great for the weight cut. I’ve been down here for nine weeks and it’s hot every day. I’m sweating and working hard and the pounds are just coming off.”

HANNAH RANKIN, IBO Super Welterweight Champion

“It’s fantastic to be in Florida training for this fight. Everything has been perfect and I’m feeling great.

“I’m really looking forward to October 5. Me and my opponent are going to put on a great show for fans for six rounds or as long as it lasts. I want to show them what women’s boxing is about.

“There are lots of exciting things in the cards for me after this fight. I’m ready to take on the top fighters and pursue world titles at 154-pounds. I can’t wait to show everyone what I can do.”

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights! and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment & Sports and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

THE RISE: Claressa Shields | Part 1 | Shields vs. Habazin | Oct. 5 on SHOWTIME

2019-10-04T04:12:00.000-04:00

THE RISE: CLARESSA SHIELDS Part 1:  First Of Three-Part Series Featuring Undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields Available Now https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhy4OAnRQPk&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR2lUCH0kK4_UMdk6pwFveR0jNqr4FDIOv6mPelAuhbRUMMEFp3GsGkmfKI

Shields will aim to make history as the fastest fighter in boxing, male or female, to become a three-division world champion when she takes on former world champion Ivana Habazin for the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight Title on Saturday, October 5 on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Flint, Mich.

SHOWTIME Sports has released the latest installment of the digital franchise THE RISE which profiles boxing’s stars as they grind their way to the top. This installment features 24-year-old undisputed middleweight world champion Claressa Shields as she prepares to make history in her sixth headlining appearance on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 5 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

THE RISE is part of a collection of digital offerings from SHOWTIME Sports that delivers exclusive access to the personalities, training camps and fight nights of boxing’s best fighters and future stars. Other original, digital-exclusive franchises from SHOWTIME Sports include DAY IN CAMP, FIGHT NIGHT, THE APPROACH and RING RESUME, an all-encompassing lineup of content available on SHOWTIME Sports online platforms and tailored specifically for a digital audience.

In part one of the series, viewers are taken back to Shields’ hometown of Flint, Mich. Shields opens up about the struggles of her youth and how she found solace in boxing to overcome seemingly insurmountable trauma. Shields discusses how she went on to win back-to-back Olympic Gold Medals and became the first woman to headline a main event on premium television.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP UNIFICATION IBF Champion Errol Spence Jr. battles WBC Champion Shawn Porter for the unified welterweight championship of the world.

2019-09-28T23:30:00.000-04:00

The stakes are high this Saturday on FOX Sports PPV as Errol Spence and Shawn Porter engage in a welterweight world title unification and Anthony Dirrell put his 168-pound strap on the line versus David Benavidez.

Welterweight stars collide in Los Angeles when IBF Champion Errol "The Truth'' Spence Jr. clashes with WBC Champ "Showtime'' Shawn Porter in a massive 147-pound title unification match on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View at Staples Center.

BOXING SUPERSTAR CLARESSA SHIELDS, SALITA PROMOTIONS AND CORPORATE SPONSOR IRONROAD JOIN FORCES TO HONOR FLINT AREA YOUTH GROUPS AT SHIELDS' HERSTORIC HOMECOMING FIGHT SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 IN FLINT, MICH.

2019-09-27T22:18:00.000-04:00

Undisputed middleweight world champion and hometown hero Claressa Shields is joining forces with corporate sponsor IronRoad and her promoter, Salita Promotions, to honor representatives from several area youth groups at her upcoming world-championship fight on October 5 at the Dort Federal Event Center in Flint, Mich.

Nearly 300 youth and chaperones from six different groups including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flint and Genesee County, YMCA of Greater Flint, Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Flint in partnership with "SHE IS" Youth Empowerment Group, GENYOUth and the Claressa Shields Community Program will be introduced to the crowd in attendance and recognized by the community during Shields historic 10-round "Homecoming for Herstory," showdown with former world champion Ivana Habazin for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Championship.

In her first professional fight in her hometown of Flint, 24-year-old Shields (9-0, 2 KOs) will be looking to become the fastest fighter in boxing, male or female, to become a three-division world champion by defeating #1-ranked Habazin (20-3, 7 KOs), of Zagreb, Croatia.

The fight will headline a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT) telecast that will also feature undefeated Saginaw, Mich., heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin (19-0, 13 KOs) facing Czech Republic's once-beaten Pavel Sour (11-1, 6 KOs) and unbeaten welterweight prospect Jaron "Boots" Ennis (23-0, 21 KOs) taking on Argentina's Demian Daniel Fernandez (12-1, 5 KOs).

"The youth are the future of Flint. I want them to know that being born in Flint is not a bad thing, that we can still be successful," said Shields. "It wouldn't be a homecoming without involving the kids. I love Flint and want to show the kids that no matter what is thrown at us, we are fighters and we are winners!"

"I want to thank IronRoad for their vision and support which allowed us to honor the Youth Groups of Flint at this historic event," said Dmitriy Salita. "The presence of three-hundred youth will make an historic event even more special and memorable."

"There's nothing more important to Claressa than including the youth of Flint in the October 5 homecoming event," said Shields' manager, Mark Taffet. "I thank IronRoad and Salita Promotions for their support which will enable us to honor Flint youth and recognize the leaders of the Flint youth groups for their dedication."

IronRoad ( ironroad.us ) is a corporation which provides human resources services and support to companies across the US and is a regular supporter of causes which give back to communities and particularly support the development of the youth of America.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flint and Genesee County ( www.bbbsflint.org ) makes a difference by creating professionally supported one-to-one matches for kids who want to realize their full potential. They are located at 410 E. Second Street in Flint. For more information, call (810) 235-0617 or email info@bbbsflint.org .

YMCA of Greater Flint ( flintymca.com ) focuses on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the nation's health and well-being, and provides opportunities to give back and support neighbors. They are located at Downtown Branch: 411 E. 3rd St. in Flint, call (810) 232-9622 and Pierson Road Branch: 5219 W. Pierson Road in Flushing, Mich., call (810) 732-9622.

The Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village's ( sbev.org ) mission is to cultivate leadership capacity. They serve all people in a dignified manner regardless of gender, race, or religion, and work to empower the youth in Flint and their communities to give them a voice in the world. They are located at 4119 N Saginaw St in Flint. For more information, please call (810) 893-6098 or email info@sbev.org .

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Flint ( www.bgclubflint.org ) gives children an opportunity to elevate themselves in the community. The building-centered effort provides a safe haven for them. Programs and services are designed to benefit children socially, physically, economically, and educationally. They are located at Averill Unit - Main: 3701 N. Averill Ave. in Flint, call (810) 249-3413 and Peak Site: 1205 W. Bristol Rd. in Flint, call (810) 213-8788.

GENYOUth ( www.genyouthnow.org ) convenes diverse stakeholders, generates dialogue and insights and collaborates with public and private partners to channel resources to bolster healthy, high-achieving students, schools and communities nationwide. They are headquartered at 515 Madison Avenue (26th Floor) in New York, NY, call (212) 225-8420.

Claressa Shields Community Project/Summer Camp ( www.facebook.com/CSCP2019 ) will empower families and provide meaningful activities for young people and is committed to making their community a greater place today and every day. They are located at 1505 N. Chevrolet Ave. in Flint. For more information, email claressashieldsproject@gmail.com

"Homecoming for Herstory" is promoted by Salita Promotions. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office.

2 DAYS TO THE SIN CITY SHOWDOWN THIS FRIDAY 💥 GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

2019-09-19T05:21:00.000-04:00

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDERS LIONELL THOMPSON & SCOTT SIGMON TALK TRAINING CAMP IN ADVANCE OF THEIR SIN CITY SHOWDOWN BOUT THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 FROM THE CLUB INSIDE THE CANNERY HOTEL IN LAS VEGAS

Battle-tested light heavyweight contender, Lionell “Lonnie B” Thompson 20-5 (11 KO’s) and Bedford, Virginia’s Scott “Cujo” Sigmon 34-13-1 (17 KO’s), spoke about their respective training camps and upcoming matchup before they enter the ring on Saturday, September 20 from The Club at the Cannery Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Coverage on Facebook Live begins at 5:30 p.m. PT/8:30 p.m. ET and also features talented prospects including Cameron Krael, Andres Cortes, Maurice Lee, Sanjarbek Rakhmanov, Lanell Bellows, and more all in separate bouts.

Lionell “Lonnie B” Thompson was introduced to the sweet science at the age of 16, a passion that would later mold him into a decorated amateur, Golden Gloves champion, participant of the 2008 Olympic boxing team, and a skilled professional fighter. Confident in his talent and skills, Thompson will be returning to the ring for the first time after a year lay-off, stronger and more focused than ever before with the help of longtime trainer Donald Patterson and Chris Ben-Tchavtchavadze.

Bedford, Virginia native, Scott “Cujo” Sigmon has added multiple notable names on his growing resume, including Thompson’s stablemates. Thirty-two-year-old Sigmon began his boxing career at the age of 17 as an escape outlet to his troubled childhood. He trains with Jeff Austin at his personal boxing gym that he has owned and operated for the last 10 years, The Hurt Factory Boxing & Fitness. Sigmon’s recent bout ended in a unanimous decision victory over Ronnie Glass on April 13, 2019. Sigmon is no stranger to Las Vegas and is looking to make his return to the city after 3 years, when he faces Thompson.

Here is what the fighters had to share ahead of their matchup:

Thompson: “He’s tough, I know that he’s never been stopped before. He’s also been in the ring with some good quality guys. Every opponent poses a threat to you because they have hands and one punch can change everything. The best you can do is to plan and train, but you can never plan what’s going to happen. I’m taking this fight extremely serious, as if I’m fighting for a world title.”

Sigmon: “Thompson is quick-footed, and I know he is going to box and stay away from me the whole fight.”

How has training camp been going? Have you made any recent adjustments to your camp?

Thompson: “The layoff has been great for me because I used the time to learn my body, learn how to eat right, and reprogram my whole body. I’m always in shape or doing my best to be in shape. The only adjustment I’ve made is dieting the right way, eating the right things, and learning the nutritional part of boxing. I’ve been working on it for the past year along with getting a good amount of rest and learning how to recover properly. I’m also working on throwing a lot more punches and picking the pace up more each round.”

Sigmon: “I had a great 8-week camp for a fight on September 1^st, which was derailed by a slight shoulder injury I had. I’ve been training around it and doing my rehab. I have not lost any conditioning during this time and expect to parlay that work into September 20^th.”

How do you expect this fight to look? What is your fight prediction?

Thompson: “I am 1,000% sure that I am going to be victorious, but I am just focused on getting the knockout and seeing how my energy level is. I’m always looking for the stoppage. I’m looking to be extremely impressive and dominant from the opening bell until the fight is over.”

Sigmon: “I am going to come forward and cut the ring off and Thompson is going to move and stay away, this is definitely a contrast in styles.”

On what a win from this fight will do for their career:

Thompson: “I’m praying that this win will get me a big fight, someone in the top 10 or a title fight. I think I deserve it because I’ve paid my dues in boxing and I’ve done everything that someone with 5 losses can do. At 168, I think that a win should give me a big fight. I feel that I can beat any champion in the super middleweight division and any top 10 fighters in the division.”

Sigmon: “A win over Lionell Thompson would be a step in the right direction to a bigger payday for me.”

Who would you like to go after next with a win on September 20?

Thompson: “Anybody, I can go for Peter Quillin, winner of Dirrell vs. Benavidez, Caleb Plant, and so many guys at 168. I feel like I am an uncrowned champion. I’m keeping my faith in god and doing my part in working hard and I truly believe that I didn’t make it this far for this to be it. One day I will be the super middleweight champion of the world.”

Sigmon: “I am not new to the business so my first option would be to make another fight with Mayweather Promotions. I would like a rematch with Love or Bellows, but of course I want to land the big fish Badou Jack! I’ll take it one step at a time.”

# # #

Fans can live stream the fights on Mayweather Promotions’ Facebook beginning at 5:30 p.m. PT/8:30 p.m. ET. Bring a minimum of 5 food items to receive a complimentary general admission ticket (limit 1 ticket per person while they last). List of accepted items includes: mac & cheese, cornbread, green beans, cake mix, cake icing, and mashed potatoes. Tickets for the live event start at $15 and are on sale now.

Casimero retains crown with Ramirez KO!

2019-09-09T04:18:00.000-04:00

MANILA, Philippines – Johnriel Casimero softened up Cesar Ramirez with body shots before finishing the Mexican off with a left uppercut and right hook in the 10th round to retain the World Boxing Organization interim bantamweight crown Saturday night, August 24 at San Andres Sports Complex.

As Ramirez’s mouthpiece flew out and he fell flat on his back, referee Ramon Pena did not even bother to count. The end of the slugfest came at the 2:23 mark.

True to his word, the Mexican gave Casimero a tough fight, even causing some anxiety as the pride of Ormoc City got winded starting the 5th round.

Drawing from his inner reserve, Casimero poured it all as the Mexican’s legs gave way with a torrent of body blows and posted his 28th win against 4 losses, 19 by knockout.

Ramirez recorded some bright moments in the 4th and 6th rounds as Casimero, after spending energy throwing head punches and chasing him, got tagged by a few solid shots.

Clearly, however, Casimero packs more power, with Ramirez also given standing 8 counts in the 3rd, 5th and 7th, when a left straight bloodied the nose of the Mexican who dropped his mouthpiece.

“Halos ubos na ako, kaya binigay ko na rin lahat (I’m almost spent so I gave all),” said Casimero, who is being groomed by MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons to challenge WBO bantamweight champion Zolani Tete on his next bout.

Ramirez fell to 18-4 with 11 knockouts.

Among those in attendance were Casimero’s benefactor Sen. Manny Pacquiao, who staged the fight card for free with the support of ABS-CBN.

According to Nonoy Neri, who supervised Casimero’s final stage of preparations at MP Boxing Stable in Davao City, bared that the three-division world champion was really intent on knocking out Ramirez.

That it came a little bit late and with a lot of struggle, hardly posed a concern for Neri.

He knew Casimero would keep his word.

Earlier former national amateur standout Criztian Laurente needed just 32 seconds to stop Christian Gabayeron in a lightweight bout and raised his record to 3-0, all by knockout.

Rio de Janeiro Olympian Charly Suarez put down Virgil Puton with body shots in the 1st round of a special lightweight tussle for his third straight KO victory in as many fights. – Rappler.com

Caleb Plant vs Mike Lee Sat July 20 at 4 PM · MGM Grand, Las Vegas · Las Vegas, Nevada

2019-07-12T01:25:00.000-04:00

IBF Super Middleweight World Champ Caleb Plant faces unbeaten Mike Lee July 20 on FOX

IBF 168-pound title fight at MGM Grand in Las Vegas precedes the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View fight between eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao and unbeaten WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman.

Undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb "Sweethands" Plant will make the first defense of his title against unbeaten contender Mike Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, July 20 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will precede the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event that also takes place at MGM Grand and is headlined by eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao facing WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman.

"Caleb Plant put the boxing world on notice with his exciting title-winning performance in January and will look to build on that showing against an unbeaten contender in Mike Lee on July 20," said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. "His first defense of the title will put Plant in primetime on FOX and FOX Deportes in Las Vegas and building up to the Pacquiao vs. Thurman pay-per-view event. With two undefeated fighters going toe-to-toe in this first main event of the evening, fans are in for a memorable night of action."

Tickets for the event, which is presented by TGB Promotions and Sweethands Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Plant vs. Lee will see two hungry unbeaten fighters square off, as Plant looks to defend his title and cement himself as the class of the 168-pound ranks, while Lee will look to join the super middleweight elite as a world champion for the first time.

To win the title, Plant (18-0, 10 KOs) turned the tables on the hard-hitting Venezuelan slugger Jose Uzcategui in their IBF championship fight in January on FS1. Going into the match the consensus was that Uzcategui was the harder puncher and that Plant would have to withstand his power to walk away with the belt. It was the 26-year-old Plant, however, who stunned Uzcategui by dropping him to the canvas twice on the way to a convincing unanimous decision. It was an emotional night for Plant, who is from Ashland City, Tenn. and now lives in Las Vegas. He had dedicated his career-best victory to the memory of his late daughter Alia, who suffered from a rare disorder that caused seizures.

"I'm more than ready to return to the ring on July 20 as the main event on FOX at MGM Grand in Las Vegas," said Plant. "I'll be defending my IBF world title in tremendous fashion and this is one fight you guys will not want to miss. I'm taking this fight just as seriously as my last opponent.

"This guy is undefeated and looking to stay that way, but unfortunately for him, he took on the wrong challenge against the wrong guy. Come July 20, he'll realize he's in deeper water than he's ever been in. My last fight was for Alia, but this fight I'm dedicating to my beautiful mother Beth Ann. May you Rest in Peace, Love you Momma."

The 31-year-old Lee (21-0, 11 KOs) graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in business, but decided to pursue his boxing dreams rather than take a job on Wall Street. A native of Wheaton, Illinois who now lives in Chicago, Lee has made a steady climb up the ladder and has been campaigning at light heavyweight. He will be moving down to super middleweight to challenge for his first world championship. Lee is coming off an impressive unanimous decision victory over Jose Hernandez on last June 8.

"I've have dreamt of the opportunity to fight for a world title for years," said Lee. "All the years of hard work, pain and sacrifice have led me to this moment. On July 20 I will be victorious and prove everyone wrong that didn't believe I was good enough to even get here.

"When I spent almost two years in and out of hospitals battling an autoimmune disease there were moments I never thought I could get back to this level and there were doctors who told me my fighting days were done. But I have won every fight since and I plan to prove that anything is possible if you want it bad enough. I could not have done this without my Dad, my advisor Mike Borao and my trainers Jamal Abdullah and Julian Chua."

GERVONTA DAVIS BALTIMORE PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS Two-Time Super Featherweight World Champion Davis Joined by Baltimore Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young Wednesday Ahead of Baltimore Homecoming Against Mandatory Challenger Ricardo Núñez Saturday, July 27Live on SHOWTIME® from Royal Farms Arena

2019-07-05T02:36:00.000-04:00

Baltimore-native and two-time super featherweight world champion Gervonta "Tank' Davis greeted fans in his hometown Wednesday at an open to the public press conference at the Mondawmin Mall as he previewed his upcoming title defense against Ricardo Núñez Saturday, July 27 live on SHOWTIME from Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore, Maryland.

Davis, who was joined at Wednesday's event by Baltimore MayorBernard C. "Jack" Young, returns to defend his title in front of a hometown crowd and will be the first world champion from Baltimore to make a homecoming defense in nearly 80 years. Davis will be making the second defense of his WBA Super Featherweight World Championship.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or at the Royal Farms Box Office Monday through Fridayfrom 10 a.m. ET to 5 p.m. ET.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from the Mondawmin Mall Center Court in Baltimore:

GERVONTA DAVIS

"I want to thank the whole city of Baltimore for backing me. Not just for this fight, but I believe that Baltimore's been backing me for a long time. I used to come up to this mall a lot, and just to have a press conference here means a lot to me.

"I'm coming home to fight in front of my people. Everyone showed out in Brooklyn when I fought for my first world title, and they did it again the second time I won a title there. So I'm pretty sure it's going to be a huge sold out event.

"I can't wait to put on a great show for everybody in my city. I'm really grateful for the opportunity that I have and I'm going to take full advantage of it.

"I definitely feel like a role model whether I like it or not. I'm the main one that made it out of the gym, other than the people I came up with. The people I came up with are dead. They all got killed. The two people that I look up to in the gym, just got killed like two weeks ago. It's overwhelming, but then again I'm strong and I hold my own and I'm staying strong.

"I never thought of me actually fighting in Baltimore city, fighting in a big arena like this. I've always watched it on TV, people coming back to their home town to fight. I'm the type of person that I always adapt to the place I'm in at the moment.

"I'm training every day. Twice a day. Even on Saturdays and Sundays. I'm working out trying to stay sharp. You have to work harder. There are so many people that are coming for you, I've always had that mindset that you're going to have to kill me to beat me. I beat a lot of people mentally first and I've always been that type of person since I was young.

"I know that my opponent only lost twice and he's got good power. I actually watched him running and sparing the other day too. He has good power and speed. Hopefully we will put on a great show July 27.

"I remember when Aquille Carr use to play basketball here they called him the 'Crimestopper' because it was like they shut down the whole city to watch him. You can call me the 'Crimestopper' July 27 because everyone's going to be there."

BALTIMORE MAYOR BERNARD C. "JACK" YOUNG

"I'm very excited for this championship fight next month, both as the Mayor of this city and as a fan of the sweet science. This is huge for this city and for a generation of people who will be able experience this type of event in their hometown.

"I want to thank Gervonta and Leonard Ellerbe and their team for making this dream a reality. Gervonta will be the first world champion from Baltimore to make a homecoming defense in almost 80 years and that is incredible for this city. Our great city has produced eight world champions and I'm excited that their legacy lives on with Gervonta.

"Make sure you get those tickets because it's going to be a sell out and you don't want to be left out. Come out and support our own world champion July 27 at Royal Farms Arena."

CALVIN FORD, Davis' Trainer

"Everyone knows I'm a very emotional coach, and I just want to say, Baltimore let's put on a show. The world has a chance to look at this city. We have had great champions here and we're not finished. There's a lot coming behind Gervonta Davis. He's opening up the door for everyone to do their thing.

"On July 27, let's show the world that we can put on a world class show. Everyone come out and support this man. We have so much raw talent in this city it's unreal. I'm witnessing it. I love you Baltimore, we're going to show the world how we do it here."

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

"Mayweather Promotions is excited to bring this event to an iconic city. We're thrilled to bring you Baltimore's own two-time world champion, Gervonta 'Tank' Davis. He's fought overseas, he's fought opponent's in their hometowns, and the results have all been the same. Win after win. That's all he knows how to do.

"Now it's time for Gervonta to come back home and bring you a very exciting fight on July 27. He'll be defending his super featherweight title on a great night of boxing. Gervonta has quickly become one of the biggest rising stars in the entire sport and we're proud that he's a part of Mayweather Promotions.

"I promise you that Gervonta Davis will eventually become the biggest star in the entire sport. You want to get your tickets now if you haven't got them, because it's going to be a sold out, star-studded event. This is a must-see fight."

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

"Together, SHOWTIME and Mayweather Promotions have done the biggest events that sports have ever seen. From Mayweather vs. Pacquiao to Mayweather vs. McGregor, and now we have a new project in this young man, Gervonta Davis.

"I remember I first heard Gervonta's name in 2014. Floyd Mayweather called me during his fight week and he asked me, 'how many times have I ever called you about a fighter?' I said 'none', and he told me to remember the name Gervonta Davis. I'm proud to be standing here today, five years later, and bringing 'Tank' home to Baltimore.

"This is SHOWTIME's first event ever in the city of Baltimore. As your Mayor has noted, Baltimore has a great history in boxing, going back to the very first African American world champion in the sport. There's a lot of boxing history in Baltimore here, but not a lot lately. That is about to change.

"Gervonta is America's youngest world champion and one of the most exciting fighters in boxing. He'll be appearing on SHOWTIME for the seventh time. The first six times have delivered six knockouts, and that's why we love Gervonta Davis. It's going to be a historic and exciting night in Baltimore on July 27."

Pacquiao vs. Thurman Saturday, July 20 in a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View Event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

2019-05-26T04:27:00.000-04:00

Eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao and unbeaten welterweight world champion Keith Thurman, plus unbeaten super middleweight champion Caleb Plant and unbeaten Mike Lee went face-to-face Tuesday in New York at a press conference to preview their respective showdowns on Saturday July 20 and presented by Premier Boxing Champions and FOX Sports from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao and Thurman will square-off in a welterweight world title attraction that headlines a PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Plant will make the first defense of his title against the unbeaten Lee in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes preceding the Pay-Per-View and beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I’ve never been scared of a challenge. I’m so excited for this fight against an undefeated champion. He’s the kind of fighter that you can’t underestimate. His record and successe gives me more motivation to work hard.

“I will make sure that I’m 100 percent and ready for this fight. We’ll find out what happens on July 20, but it’s going to be exciting. I like being the underdog for this fight because that gives me more focus in training.

“I’ve been careless and over confident in some fights, but this time around it’s different. Keith Thurman is a good fighter and we’re going to make sure the fans are happy on July 20.

“It’s a great honor for me to be fighting back in Las Vegas and on the FOX Sports pay-per-view. I’m going to take advantage of the opportunity.

“I chose Keith Thurman because he’s undefeated and I want to prove that at age 40 I can still beat a great fighter like Keith.

“My time is not yet over. My journey is continuing. I’m going to prove that and more on July 20 against Keith Thurman.

“I’m the kind of fighter that I don’t talk too much. I do my talking in the ring. I can do a lot of things in that ring. He can prove his words in the ring. I’m going to be a warrior on July 20 and show Keith Thurman what it’s like to be in the ring with me.

“I will work hard for this fight. I haven’t felt this motivated and excited since the Oscar De La Hoya fight. I feel like I’m back against the best fighters in the world.

“Our focus in every fight is on the speed and footwork, because those are advantages for me. We’re going to work on avoiding Keith’s offense.

“Fans should watch this fight because it’s a once in a lifetime showdown. We’re going to bring action and I’m confident I will be victorious.”

KEITH THURMAN

“We’re ready. This is a blessing to be here and a dream come true. I started boxing at the age of seven. I worked hard to be a champion and I’ve always wanted to fight the greatest names in the sport.

“Pacquiao wants a challenge and I’m very grateful to be sharing a ring with a legend. If you understand boxing history, you know that times change. I believe boxing is in a new era. Come July 20, Pacquiao will disappear. He’ll always be remembered in the sport, but I’m doing to Manny Pacquiao, what he did to Oscar De La Hoya.

“This is a big fight. I’ve waited 22 months to get back in the game. We had our ups and downs, but Keith Thurman is back on the rise. I’m going to make a big statement.

“This training camp is going to start this Saturday. Once I get home, it’s grind time and on July 20, it’s going to be my time.

“July 20 is 23 years in the making. I’ve dedicated myself to this beautiful sport of boxing for so long and my first trainer Ben Getty told me that I had what it takes to be a great champion. I’m truly looking forward to having another chance to show it.

“We definitely had a stretch with a lack of activity. Not everyone knows who Keith Thurman is today. You could see that I wasn’t at my best in January. But on July 20, ‘One Time’ is back. I’m getting ready to have one of my best training camps for this fight.

“I had the knockdown in my last fight that was a reminder of what ‘One Time’ is all about. We brushed the dust off and we’re taking that momentum into this fight.

“I’m excited to be the guy who shows Manny Pacquiao where the exit is. He’s a legend who’s done great things. But I’ve never lost to a fighter who’s lost seven times. I have no intention of losing this fight and I don’t see him winning in any shape or form.

“Speed, power and overall ring IQ will be the difference. I’m one of the smartest fighters in the sport. I always find a way to win. I know Pacquiao comes in shape, but he’s going to fall short of that finish line.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’ve been boxing my whole life. They say it takes 10,000 hours of work to become a true success at something. Come July 20, I’ll have been doing this for 18-years straight. No breaks and no Plan B. I’ve just been boxing, day in and day out.

“Mike Lee may have a financial degree, but in boxing, I have a Ph.D. That’s something he doesn’t know anything about. I came from very rock bottom, where nobody makes it out. If he thinks I’m going to let him mess this up for me, he’s not half as educated as I thought he was.

“I have everything to lose. Every night from now until July 20, I hope Lee and his team are envisioning the worlds ‘and still’. Because that’s all anyone is going to hear on fight night.

“It’s exciting to be on this primetime card. Everyone who wants to take it to the top of the sport wants to be a main event at MGM Grand. At the same time, where we fight is not most important to me. We can fight in the parking lot, because it’s about legacy to me.

“Anytime that someone steps into the ring and wins their first world title in fashion, it’s going to be a confidence booster. But I did tell everyone what was going to happen. There’s a season for everything and right now is mine.

“He may come into the ring bigger and heavier than me, but boxing skills are what wins fights. Years of repetition with boxing teachers, are what wins fights. You’ll see all of that on July 20.

“I don’t look at myself as the favorite in any fight. I’m the one who’s not supposed to be here. Put everyone through what I’ve been through, and see if they would make it here.”

MIKE LEE

“This has been a culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Most importantly, I’ve gotten somewhere no one thought I would get. I’m fine being the underdog. I have nothing to lose.

“I’m coming out with everything I have. This is everything I’ve ever wanted. I respect Caleb Plant, but on July 20, I plan on making it my moment.

“I’ve headlined cards in Chicago and at Notre Dame before so the bright lights are nothing new to me. I’m very excited and working hard. On July 20, I’m going to keep proving people wrong.

“The whole reason I got into this sport is to do it on big stages. Everyone wants to prove it on the biggest stage possible and there’s no bigger stage than at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. It’s a dream come true and it’s the reason I’ve worked so hard.

“Moving down in weight is an advantage. I’ve got a great team working with me to make the weight easily and rehydrate the right way. I’m going to be the bigger and stronger guy in the ring.

“I’ve had people that never thought I’d get here and I love it. It takes a different kind of person to step into that ring in front of so many people. You have to be ready to go out there and risk it all. I fight who they put in front of me and keep winning. That’s what I plan to do on July 20.”

Devin Haney vs Antonio Moran in the main event live from the MGM National Harbor, Oxon Maryland

2019-05-25T19:53:00.000-04:00

Premier Boxing Champions: Trout Vs Gausha

2019-05-25T19:14:00.003-04:00

Former Super Welterweight World Champion Austin Trout returns to the ring TONIGHT vs former 154-LB title challenger Terrell Gausha on FS1 & FOX Deportes at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT.

WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony "Superbad'' Harrison and former world champion Jermell on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas

2019-05-25T18:58:00.002-04:00

WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony "Superbad'' Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo exchanged words at a heated Los Angeles press conference Wednesday ahead of their world championship rematch that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).

Harrison and Charlo’s first encounter took place live on FOX in December as Harrison earned the decision and upset Charlo to earn the title. The close nature of the bout helped warrant an immediate rematch that promises to be just as highly charged and dramatic as before.

The drama from their first bout poured over into Wednesday’s press conference, as the fighters went forehead to forehead while facing off for media, neither looking to cede any ground in the build up to their rematch. Here is what the press conference participants had to say from The Conga Room in L.A. Live:

TONY HARRISON

“I’ve never been this motivated in my life to win a fight like how I am right now. At the end of the day, if my career would end, I would be cool stopping after this win.

“This fight is personal for me. What I’ve been through has made me into who I am. I’m not a pretender. When I come out here and put my life out on the line and you put your life out on the line, respect me as a man. I’m going to earn it again on June 23.

“Not everybody gets a chance to redeem their losses. But the fact that I took this should show how confident I am in beating Jermell again. I don’t need anyone to co-sign me because I’m confident in what I can do as a man and as a fighter.

“He’s really sparked me and got me motivated for this fight. The worst thing you can do is spark a guy from Detroit. He’s not the only one with a chip on his shoulder.

“Fighting is the toughest sport in the world. You have to sacrifice so much for it. You’ll go crazy if you don’t take time to do something else that you love to do. So that’s why every day I take time to do something that I love to do to take my mind off the physical strain and mental focus I put myself through.

“Growing up, I had a lot of guys I looked up to. If I didn’t have those guys to look up to, who motivated me and who believed in me and my talents, then I wouldn’t have been pushed into being something. It’s not about money. I’ll do it for free because I love the grind and the sacrifice.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“I’m coming to this rematch with a whole different mindset and a much better game plan. I took this loss like a wake up and reminded myself why I’ve been doing this for all these years.

“I have respect for Tony and his father, but I think he knows that he didn’t do enough to win that fight. It was a robbery, but that just means I have the opportunity for redemption.

“I feel like I’m the people’s champ for fans all around the world. My popularity is still growing despite the robbery. I’m going to step into the ring and channel everything into a great performance.

“I want to start fast, but not necessarily faster than last time. He might come out and charge me and I’ll have to be on my counters. I’ll be ready to knock him out that way too.

“Overcoming the loss was easier than I thought. I enjoyed my little time off. I went back and learned some different things. I’m going to do some things way better on June 23.

“Tony knows exactly what happened in our fight. He knows he can’t beat me. I’m here to prove it again and leave no doubt.

“I’m dominating this fight. If he does make it to the 12^th round, he’s going to be bruised and beat down.

“I’m leaving it all in the ring in this fight. I’ve got no distractions and everything is smooth heading into this one. I’m giving 110 percent. It’s going to be ruthless.”

ALI SALAAM, Harrison’s Father & Trainer

“We just want to defend our title and show the world that this was not an accident what happened in December.

“I believe that Tony is the best fighter in the division and on June 23, we’re going to prove it to the world again.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“These guys are both great champions and we believe that this is a perfect situation for us to come back and reclaim our title.

“This is all business for us. I want to see Jermell get the title back. Tony and his team are great people, but at the same time, I know what I want and what Jermell deserves to have.

“Jermell is going to be WBC Super Welterweight World Champion again. That’s what we want and that’s what we’re going to go out and get.”

BRITTANY GOOSSEN BROWN, VP of TGB Promotions

“We’re excited to be promoting this fight alongside Lions Only Promotions and Mayweather Promotions. The first fight closed out 2018 with a bang and we can’t wait to see what happens on June 23 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“This fight right here, I guarantee you, will be nothing but fireworks. The last fight was a fight that many thought was very, very close. But the beauty of this, come June 23, is that we get to see these guys do it all over again.

“In Tony's case, coming in as the current champion, he knows he has got to be even better than he was the first time around to hold on to his title. He worked too hard and too long his entire life. He has the whole city of Detroit on his back and he is coming to defend what's his.

“In Jermell's case, he knows that it was a highly disputed loss and his mindset has been thinking of nothing else but Tony Harrison, day in and day out. I can imagine now and when he walks into that ring, he is going to be thinking about payback.

“What I love about both of these guys is that they do so much for their respective communities. They do a lot for kids and don't want to let anyone or themselves down. This fight right here will be highly competitive and come June 23, the best man will come out on top.”

ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO 2
Harrison vs. Charlo 2 will see WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony "Superbad" Harrison take on former world champion Jermell Charlo in a highly anticipated rematch that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Sunday, June 23 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champion Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux taking on exciting Mexican contender Julio Ceja in a WBC Super Bantamweight world title eliminator.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights! and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016-19, All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment & Sports and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

CANELO VS. JACOBS FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

2019-05-04T06:39:00.000-04:00

WBC, WBA, Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (50-1-2, 34 KOs) and IBF Middleweight World Champion Daniel "Miracle Man" Jacobs (35-2, 29 KOs) hosted their final press conference today ahead of their 12-round unification fight. The event will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Below is what the fighters and their teams had to say at today's final press conference:

Canelo Alvarez, WBC, WBA, Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion

"Look, we're just ready for Saturday. I'll repeat to you - I'm ready, I'm ready to continue writing history like I always have."

"I'm a fighter that's fought all the styles. What he brings on Saturday night is going to bring the reaction out of me to counter whatever he brings."

"In boxing, anything can happen. That's including the knockout. If it's there, trust me, I'm going to go for the knockout. I don't care if he's bigger, stronger, it's never bothered me. I have the capability. I have the experience to overcome that and more."

Daniel Jacobs, IBF Middleweight World Champion

"I just feel as if the thirst for this fight is at an all-time high. We are only three days away from a mega fight and it's such a privilege to be here right before this mega showdown. This is the opportunity of a lifetime for me and I'm mostly excited to get in there to show the world that I am the best middleweight of my generation. I finally have an opportunity to prove it, to go against Canelo Alvarez. You guys are going to see fireworks, masterful boxing, skills, dedication, persistence, and grit, most importantly."

"I'm gonna talk inside the ring and let my fighting speak for itself. To Canelo - let's put on a good show my brother."

What has been tougher - preparing for this fight against Canelo or his fight against GGG? "I think mentally, Golovkin started out as the most devastating power puncher and boogeyman of the division. So mentally, he was tougher. Physically, this is much harder preparation because Canelo is very agile, he's very fast, his offensive onslaught is at an all-time high. It's a drastic difference. I thought I won the GGG fight and I assure you I will win this fight without controversy."

"What will take the win will simply be me being the best version of myself. My physical advantages in itself can win me the fight, but I also have the mental capacity.I'm in my prime. I'm the only fighter Canelo has faced since Floyd Mayweather to be in his prime. I'm super confident and I'm going in there with the ability as well."

Eddy Reynoso, Co-Trainer and Manager to Canelo Alvarez

"Saturday night we have a great fight in a division that's given boxing historically great fights, and without a doubt Saturday night you're going to have one of the greatest fights between two of the best fighters, two great champions. Ever since we began our career in boxing with Canelo, we always knew we'd have to take these types of risks in fights. These are the types of fights that catapult you to the top, to the elite level."

"We have a tremendous challenge in front of us, a tremendous champion in Daniel Jacobs. But this year, our goal is to sweep the middleweight division and win all four belts, and Daniel Jacobs will not obtain that goal."

Jose "Chepo" Reynoso, Co-Trainer and Manager to Canelo Alvarez

"I would like to give you a little bit of what happened in camp, all the hard work, all the intense work, the long hours of training. Because intensity is what we expect in the fight. And all this hard work is just what gives us the tranquility and the peace of mind that come Saturday night, when his hand is raised, it will reconfirm to everyone that he is the best middleweight on the planet."

Andre Rozier, Trainer to Daniel Jacobs

"We had a fantastic camp. I'm just happy that Danny has finally reached his pinnacle. This is the point that he has strived to get to since he first began boxing. And, he is ready. I thank Canelo for accepting the challenge. I expect a fantastic battle but as it was just told - it is my birthday, and my son is going to present me with the best birthday present I could ever get by having his hands raised in victory."

Keith Connolly, Manager to Daniel Jacobs

"A bunch of people have asked me if I'm excited for the fight. I'm most excited to see how this all turns out - the Daniel Jacobs story. I've known him for about 15 years since he was a teenager and it's been an honor to see him grow from the boy that I first met to the man that he is now. This fight is happening at exactly at the right time. He's physically mature but more importantly, he's mentally mature. I expect him to embrace everything Saturday night and come out victorious."

Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy

"This Saturday the #1 and #2 best middleweights on the planet will put everything on the line for one simple reason - to see who is the best. That is boxing a its finest. Indeed, this is the biggest fight in boxing featuring the biggest star in boxing in the biggest place for boxing on the biggest platform for boxing."

"In life there are challenges that strengthen a person's character and determine how this person will be remembered. Boxing is no different. The men we have before us today have faced tough challenges that few on the earth can relate too. Outside of the ring these men have already proven what they are made of, but this Saturday, these men will also determine who will be remembered as the best middleweight of their time the only way they know how - with their fists."

"We are excited to be at the forefront of this new era of boxing with DAZN and look forward to continuing to make boxing more accessible and affordable for fans."

"Saturday night we expect fireworks, we expect a war, we expect an amazing fight, with two gentlemen who have done an amazing job getting to this point."

Bernard Hopkins, Golden Boy Partner and Future Hall of Famer

"To Danny Jacobs, I'd like to say this is a historical moment for your team. This is real special. It doesn't happen in any division but I'm glad it's happening now. To Canelo, Jacobs, well done. Now let's take care of business."

Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Boxing

"We just want three simple things. We want to make sure Daniel Jacobs is victorious on Saturday night and we truly believe from the bottom of our hearts that he will be. We want to make sure we spread the gospel that great fights can be made. You can take risks. It's fun. It's called sport. That's what we have to remember. Why these young men started was about greatness. It was how many belts they could gather. Could they reach the Hall of Fame? Could they create a legacy? And, I want the message of Daniel Jacobs to be spread worldwide. The illness and disease of cancer touches all of us. With Daniel Jacobs, you have a message of complete hope to anybody in suffering. Daniel Jacobs was paralyzed. He was told he may never walk again, and certainly never fight again. Right now, I want this story to be spread worldwide to look at this fine young man and realize there is hope. If he can do it, you can do it. And on Saturday. I believe he'll become victorious and become the unified champion of the world."

"I know right now that this side has a feeling of excitement and nerves going into this weekend because this is a wonderful fight between two great champions and this is what the sport of boxing is all about."

On the judges for Saturday: "I believe we have four outstanding officials across this fight who are going to give Daniel Jacobs and Canelo Alvarez a complete blank canvas and mutual respect."

Joseph Markowski, Executive Vice President of DAZN North America

"To be clear, this fight would be on pay-per-view on any other platform - 80, 90, maybe even 100 bucks. But instead of offering this fight for $100, we'll offer you an entire year of fights for $100 with our annual pass - incredible value in the next couple of months: Canelo vs. Jacobs on May 4, the World Boxing Super Series on May 18, Oleksandr Usyk's heavyweight debut on May 25, Anthony Joshua's U.S. debut on June 1, Gennady Golovkin's return on June 8, and premium Bellator MMA. And that's on top of the rest of our 100+ fight nights a year, including the fact that both Canelo and GGG will be back fighting on DAZN in the fall."

"This weekend is massive for the middleweight division, a truly electrifying fight. It's also massive for the DAZN business but most importantly for fight fans. On Sunday morning, instead of fans waking up to a $100 bill, those fight fans will have an entire year of content to look forward to. It's a transformational moment."

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. is a 10-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, "THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING" and Hennessy "Never Stop. Never Settle." The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Wilder vs. Breazeale – World Boxing Council World Heavyweight Title Fight ! Saturday, May 18th at the Barclays Center

2019-05-03T03:24:00.000-04:00

SHOWTIME Sports^® To Live Stream Wilder vs. Breazeale Undercard Bouts Saturday, May 18 Featuring the BombZquad’s Deon Nicholson And Robert Alfonso; Plus, Fellow-Unbeaten Prospect Richardson Hitchins Competes From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN Streams Live at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page Leading up to the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONHIP BOXING^® Live Telecast

SHOWTIME Sports will provide live streaming coverage of three Wilder vs. Breazeale undercard bouts on the network’s social media platforms as part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, May 18 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Unbeaten cruiserweight Deon Nicholson will take on Brian Howard in a 10-round fight and undefeated heavyweight and former Cuban Olympian Robert Alfonso will face Iago Kiladze in a 10-round showdown as two of the BombZquad’s rising prospects take center stage. The streaming coverage also includes Brooklyn native and 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins returning for his eighth fight at Barclays Center in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN streams live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page leading up to the evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^®event. The three-fight SHOWTIME telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder as he makes the ninth defense of his title against mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale.

The undercard action at Barclays Center includes unbeaten rising contender Antonio Russell (13-0, 11 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight fight and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (8-0, 8 KOs) stepping in for an eight-round super lightweight attraction. Additionally, 20-year-old Dylan Price (7-0, 5 KOs) competes in a six-round super flyweight matchup and Staten Island’s Kenny Robles (5-1, 2 KOs) enters the ring for a six-round 140-pound attraction.

Representing Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the same hometown as heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, Nicholson (11-0, 11 KOs) will look to keep his 100-percent knockout ratio intact when he steps in on May 18. The 28-year-old has fought professionally since 2016 and defeated then once-beaten fighters Shamarian Snider and Charles Dale by knockout in his two most recent fights. He will be opposed by Atlanta’s Howard (14-2, 11 KOs), who most recently knocked out Garrett Wilson on March 1.

Originally from Havana, Cuba and currently residing in Orlando, Florida, Alfonso (18-0, 8 KOs) was a highly-decorated Cuban amateur who represented Cuba in the 2008 Olympics in addition to capturing a gold medal in the Cuban National Championships. The 32-year-old owns amateur victories over heavyweight contenders Luis Ortiz, Oscar Rivas, Andy Ruiz Jr. and Michael Hunter. Alfonso was victorious three times in 2018 before defeating Ray Austin in his 2019 debut in February. He will take on the 33-year-old Kiladze (26-4, 18 KOs), who is originally from Georgia but now lives in Los Angeles. Kiladze will look to rebound from his last outing, a loss to rising heavyweight Joe Joyce.

At just 21-years-old, Hitchins (8-0, 4 KOs) has quickly become a BROOKLYN BOXING staple, competing in seven of his first eight bouts at his hometown arena. The 2016 Haitian Olympian most recently stopped David Morales after three rounds at Barclays Center in March and will look to pick up his third victory of 2019 when he steps in on May 18.

ROBERT EASTER JR. VS. RANCES BARTHELEMY FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE

2019-04-26T01:32:00.001-04:00

ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France's Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

“This fight is going to be a lot of action and I don’t think it’s going to make it to the final bell,” - Easter

“I’m going to make him dance to the rhythm of the ‘Cuban Salsa’ on Saturday night,” - Barthelemy

#RobertEasterJr. vs. #RancesBarthelemy for #WBA Lightweight Title This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME® From The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Presented by #PremierBoxingChampions

Former lightweight champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight title this Saturday live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. PT /7 p.m. ET) from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Also squaring off Thursday were former champion Viktor Postol and France’s Mohamed Mimoune, who battle in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, plus rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba and Germany’s Michael Wallisch, who meet in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:

ROBERT EASTER JR.

“I’m not here to talk about any past or future fights. Right now I’m focused on this fight against Rances. Come Saturday you’re going to see what I’ve put myself through during this camp.

“Not only have I learned a lesson from fighting Mikey Garcia, but I also learn something new after every fight. I went back home to Toledo for this one and got back to basics with my dad and Mike Stafford. We put in the hard work and you’ll see it on display Saturday.

“This fight is going to be a lot of action and I don’t think it’s going to make it to the final bell.

“I’m highly confident right now coming off of the hard work in training camp. The connection with my dad is so great and all the time we spent in camp is going to pay off Saturday.

“We had a tremendous camp. I’m hungrier than ever right now to get back in the ring and show everyone that I deserve to be at the top. The only dance I’m going to be doing on Saturday night, is to the bank.”

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I’m excited for this new opportunity that I have in front of me and I’m not going to let it go to waste. I’m taking that belt with me on Saturday night.

“I always have good fortune fighting here at The Cosmopolitan and I believe I’m going to take home the victory Saturday night.

“I take nothing away from Robert Easter Jr., because he’s a great champion. But I can do everything. I can fight on the inside, on the outside, I have power and I’ve fought against great opposition.

“I never dreamed of making it this far, especially coming from where I did. The dream of professional boxing didn’t exist. To be in this position already, it makes me want to keep chasing bigger fights and leave behind a big legacy.

“I have a very competitive fight in front of me. I’ve worked with Joel Casamayor, who has great experience combined with mine. We have great chemistry and I’m ready for everything to come together on Saturday night.

“I thank Robert Easter Jr. for taking the challenge, but I’m going to make him dance to the rhythm of the ‘Cuban Salsa’ on Saturday night. It’s going to get caliente.”

VIKTOR POSTOL

“My team and I had a great camp and I’m excited to be here and see what my opponent is going to bring for Saturday’s fight. I’m ready for a great fight.

“I trained hard like I always do. I have the experience against top fighters and I’m ready to prove that I’m still one of the best.

“I want to become world champion again. I’ve fought much better opponents than Mimoune and it will show on Saturday. My plan is to box, break him down and if the knockout comes, I’ll take it.”

MOHAMED MIMOUNE

“I’m very excited to fight here in Las Vegas and I want to tell the American fans that I guarantee a great fight on Saturday night. I’m coming to win.

“It was a very good camp, and it fully prepared me for war on Saturday night. I’ve worked hard to be in the best shape of my career.

“Every fighter is different, so we’ll see if he’s my toughest opponent once I’m in there. I respect him and I know that he’s a good boxer, but he doesn’t have anything I can’t handle.

“I’ve studied Postol closely and I’m ready to fight. I have the strategy and game plan prepared to get the win. I’m focused 100 percent on getting this win.”

EFE AJAGBA

“This is my first time in Las Vegas and I’m very excited to be here. I’ve been studying my opponent and I know he’s a good fighter. I can’t wait to get in there on Saturday and show off my skills.

“Every time I fight I go back to Texas and start training again. I’m facing a good fighter, but I’ve been preparing for him. I have a powerful jab that I’m looking forward to showing off.

“In one year, or maybe two. I think I’ll be fighting against top guys. We’re going to keep stepping up. This is my first time fighting on SHOWTIME so I’m looking forward to that step.

“It’s up to my opponent how long the fight lasts. I never say I’m going in to knock him out. I have to feel it and find the moment and see what he gives me.”

MICHAEL WALLISCH

“I come from Germany to bring a show to the fans. I love this city already and I want to win so I can come back again. I’m fighting a tough guy on Saturday, but I’m also very tough. May the best man win.

“I had a little less than a month’s notice for the fight but I had already been training and sparring very well. I think that I’m going to bring that great work into the ring on Saturday.

“I think for sure I’m the toughest opponent of Ajagba’s career. I will be the first rock that he has to climb. At heavyweight, everybody has power. We will see on Saturday what he has.

“I trained very hard with Alexander Dimitrenko, who is another tall fighter. It prepared me well and I think we’re going to go toe-to-toe for as long as it lasts.”

ROBERT EASTER SR, Easter’s Trainer

“We were really focused for this camp. We stuck with what we know and went right back to how we started in this sport. Robert loved the camp.

“Robert is hungry. He’s always been a hungry fighter. The loss was a huge lesson for him. He treats every fight like it’s the last fight. I see the fight going our way.”

JOEL CASAMAYOR, Barthelemy’s Trainer and Former World Champion

“I’m very happy to be working with Rances. He’s a great fighter and we’ve been working together to perfect his boxing style. His improvement in a short time has been outstanding.

“We are going to give the fans a surprise. We are winning by knockout. It’s going to be ‘Easter Dinner’ on Saturday night. He better be ready. Rances is bringing the knockout.”

ROY JONES JR. (on working with Mohamed Mimoune leading up to the fight)

“I like a lot of things about Mohamed. He’s a high-energy fighter and because of that, he can do anything that he wants to do. I’ve explained to him that he needs to go out there and be who he is, and not let Viktor Postol be who he wants to be.

“Mohamed needs to take control of the fight and keep control. If he gives control back to Postol, he’s going to feel like he can dominate. You have to hold on to that momentum.

“It’s a very good matchup stylistically. Both guys are tall and long. I think Mohamed beats him in the end because he’s smarter and hungrier. He hasn’t been beat in a long time, and if he dictates the pace, he’s going to win.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, Ajagba’s Trainer

“Ajagba wants to learn everything in the gym. He wants to be the best heavyweight out there. He just turned 25 on Monday, so right now we’re just picking our spots and letting him develop. We’re not trying to force anything. Slowly but surely he’s moving along.

“He’s still young in the game, but I think he could compete with a lot of the top guys right now. It’s a learning process. He needs to take those steps one at a time. We’re at a good pace right now that we’re both happy with. Within another year, he’s going to make some noise.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“What a terrific card we have this weekend from top to bottom. It’s exciting to see young fighters on the rise, former world champions and more making up this great card.

“It’s not too often you get fights like these, with former world champions still in their prime. I’ve seen Robert Easter Jr. mature through the ranks and fight on the big platforms. He came up short in his last bout against another great champion in Mikey Garcia, but I think he took invaluable experience from that fight.

“Anytime you fight on that stage and come up short, you know going forward that you have everything to lose. Robert has a chip on his shoulder and he’s coming to prove that he’s still the man in the division.

“I can’t say enough about Rances Barthelemy. He’s already a two-division world champion with eyes on eventually winning a title in a third division. He knows on Saturday night he has his hands full. These two young guys are fighting for the same thing. They’re both world class fighters coming to show who the better man is.”

#AndNew WBO interim Bantamweight Champion John Riel Reponte Casimero via 12th round stoppage!

2019-04-22T03:27:00.001-04:00

"He Rose" AND NEW!!!! John Riel Reponte Casimero
scores a 12th round KNOCKOUT vs Ricardo Espinoza Franco.

He claims the #WBO Interim Bantamweight Title. #boxing #boxeo #sports👊🇵🇭

About John Riel Reponte Casimero
On August 23, 2008, just a year after turning pro, Casimero defeated #RodelQuilaton for the then vacant #PhilippinesBoxingFederation (#PBF) Flyweight title, winning a unanimous decision (UD) through ten rounds. Following the bout, Casimero moved down one division, to light flyweight, defeating #LiempetchSorVeerapol of #Thailand by technical knockout (TKO) in the fifth round to claim the then vacant #WBOAsiaPacific Light Flyweight title. Casimero successfully defended that title two bouts later against #ArdinDiale, until he got the biggest break of his career.

On December 19, 2009, in Managua, Nicaragua, Casimero won the then vacant interim #WBO light flyweight title, by defeating former interim #WBALight Flyweight champion #CésarCanchila of #Colombia. Canchila had a record of 28–2 coming into the bout, with his last loss coming from current #WBA Light Flyweight World Champion #GiovanniSegura, whom he previously defeated for the interim title. Casimero gave a spectacular performance, the fight being his first outside his home country. He was able to knockdown Canchila multiple times until the referee finally stopped the bout in the 11th round of the scheduled 12 round interim title fight

This win can give Casimero a title shot against Iván Calderón of Puerto Rico, who previously defeated Filipino boxer Rodel Mayol. Casimero fought #RamónGarcíaHirales on July 3, 2010, for his first defense of the interim #WBO light flyweight title but lost by split decision.

On February 11, 2012, Casimero, and members of his team were kicked and assaulted when fans in Mar Del Plata hurled chairs and stormed the ring following his 10th-round knockout of local Argentine fighter #LuisAlbertoLazarte for the IBF junior flyweight championship.

After the riot, police escorted Casimero and his team to their hotel and provided protection for them. #AlbertoLazarte later visited to apologize.

The #Philippines has filed a diplomatic protest to the Argentine government after Argentine fans attacked John Riel Casimero, a #Filipino fighter, in the ring after winning the title bout.

Philippine Foreign Affairs spokesman #RaulHernandez stated that his country's embassy filed a protest with Argentina's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is awaiting an explanation. #Boxer #AlbertoLazarte was banned by #IBFfor threat, sparking a ring riot.

On July 19, 2012, Casimero was declared as the regular IBFJunior#Flyweight World Champion because of the inability of Ulises Solis to defend his title on or before October 30.

On his first defense of the IBF junior flyweight title, Casimero faced #PedroGuevarra of Mexico on August 4, 2012. He scored a knockdown in the opening round and fought to a split decision victory.

He successfully made a second defense of his title against #WBCLatino light flyweight champion #LuisAlbertoRios on March 16, 2013. His third defense was against #FelipeSalguero on October 26, 2013 and he won by eleventh-round knockout.

Flyweight Division
Casimero got his first shot at a world title when he challenged Moruti Mthalane of South Africa for the IBF flyweight title on March 26, 2011.[12] He was, however, stopped by the South African in five rounds, therefore marking his second career loss.

Following his win against #MauricioFuentes and #ArmandoSantos, Casimero moved back up to the flyweight division. On June 27, 2015, Casimero lost his return to flyweight bout via unanimous decision against #IBFflyweight champion #AmnatRuenroeng in a controversial match. On May 25, 2016, #Casimero challenged #Ruenroeng again for the #IBF flyweight title and knocked him out with a vicious body shot in the 4th round.

Former Two-Division World Champion Barthelemy Takes on Robert Easter Jr. for WBA Lightweight Title Saturday, April 27 Live on SHOWTIME® from The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

2019-04-21T13:39:00.000-04:00

Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions,

Former Two-Division World Champion Faces Former Champion Robert Easter Jr. for WBA Lightweight Title Saturday, April 27 Live on SHOWTIME® from The Chelsea Inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

2019-04-17T01:18:00.000-04:00

Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemydiscussed changes to his training camp as he nears a vacant WBA Lightweight Title showdown with former lightweight champion Robert Easter Jr. taking place Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagbalooks to remain undefeated against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

After losing for the first time in his pro career in a 140-pound title fight against Kiryl Relikh last March, Barthelemy rebounded to stop Robert Frankel in December as he prepared to return to the lightweight division to face Easter. Since the loss to Relikh, Barthelemy made fellow Cuban and former world champion Joel Casamayor head trainer as he looks to return to the championship ranks.

Here is what Barthelemy had to say from training camp at Prince Ranch Bones Adams Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

How has training camp gone so far?

“Everything has been going well under the guidance of Joel Casamayor and the assistance of my brother Yan Barthelemy and Oscar Vasquez. We have been training twice a day and sparring three to four times a week against solid guys like former world champion and ex-opponent Mickey Bey. Like they say, ‘iron sharpens iron’ and the quality of sparring has been tremendous help in getting me ready for April 27. I feel better prepared both mentally and physically than I did in my most recent fights.”

What do you make of Robert Easter Jr. and what do you know about him?

“I have seen various Robert Easter Jr fights and have been studying him very closely. He’s a great boxer who likes to use his height and reach to his advantage. He’s an ex-world champion who has fought quality opponents. He deserves all of my respect but we are very confident that we will be victorious against him.”

Do you feel you have been able to rebound from your first career defeat?

“Most definitely, I have been able to move on and use that defeat as a lesson in my career. They say sometimes we learn more in defeat than we do in victories and that was the case in that fight.

“Sometimes we do not see clearly when we are winning. Bad habits or little details that need correction are overlooked when you are winning. Sometimes we do not even see them. I feel rejuvenated and we have made many important changes that were necessary for my career. You will see on April 27 that there is still much more left from Team Barthelemy.”

What would it mean to become a champion again on April 27?

“We have no doubt that we’ll become champion again for a third time on April 27. This will bring my name back at the top of the sport with many potential big fights to be made. It will mean so much more to me because Cuban boxing has currently gone through a rough patch and this victory will allow Cuba to have a champion once again.”

Any final message to your fans before your fight?

“Please make sure to tune in on April 27. This fight will be very competitive, with two evenly-skilled former world champions looking to reclaim their status at the top of the sport. Fights like this are what make boxing great. Cuba will have a champion once again on April 27!”

DANIEL 'MIRACLE MAN' JACOBS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES CANELO VS JACOBS SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019 AT T-MOBILE ARENA AND STREAMED LIVE EXCLUSIVELY ON DAZN

2019-04-16T04:03:00.003-04:00

IBF Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs (35-2, 29KOs) of Brooklyn, N.Y. hosted a media workout today at CEA Fitness in Long Island, N.Y. ahead of his 12-round unification fight against Canelo Alvarez (50-1-2, 34 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico. Andre Rozier, his trainer, also attended the workout. The event will take place Saturday, May 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

DANIEL JACOBS, IBF MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

"I don't necessarily think Canelo can bully me. I think that it's going to be really hard for him being the smaller guy to dictate that. I'm a rough guy when it comes to being in the ring. From the outside looking in, it might look different. But in the ring, I'm a physically big guy with speed and power, so it's more about the tactics that I choose to use to be victorious."

"All I see is my hand being raised. I've envisioned KOs, decisions, all the positive things. As far as controversy or negativity, him being able to take my punches or push me back, that's not entered my mind. We only think positively before going into the ring, we're ready for every possibility, but ultimately, we are on a positive path to victory."

"Victory would truly show the fans that whether you think I beat Golovkin or not. I am the best Middleweight in the world. I've always said that I am the best, and I've also always been vocal that the win over Golovkin was taken from me. So, a win over Canelo puts a new idea in the fans' minds that this guy is the best as he's proven it against a guy that bean Golovkin - and then I can give Golovkin the rematch and prove that I am better than him."

"I've switched up the sparring partners a lot and we've worked a lot on footwork. I've been the come-forward aggressor in my previous fights, the power-puncher; Canelo takes a good shot and he's very elusive with his upper body, so we wanted to make sure we're faster on our feet, with our hands and with our combinations than in previous fights."

"I give Canelo all the respect in the world. He's definitely top-ten, pound for pound. There are some controversial fights that he's had that where I thought he lost, including both Golovkin fights. But I respect any man that has the courage to fight as this is a kill or be killed sport, but that's where the respect ends. As far as getting in the ring with him goes, I want to be the victor. I want to take his head off and prove that I am the best gladiator in the world. That's my true intentions so there's no respect when it comes to that. But we're both gentlemen and in my opinion, we're great ambassadors for the sport. But take that away, and it's going to be a blood sport in the ring."

"It's a little annoying to have to keep talking about the judges and Canelo getting favoritism, but it's also a fact in most people's mind so that's why it comes up so much. I don't mind answering the questions, but it can be annoying as I don't want the mindset to be going in there to fight Canelo and the judges. I don't need any more stress in this fight as Canelo is a force in himself and it's going to take a lot to figure him out."

"I study all the fights, and the ones I believed he lost as those are the fighters that showed his bad habits and the opponents were able to exploit them. Canelo has great upper body and head movement, but his legs and his knees don't hold up well. He doesn't cut the ring off well like Sergey Derevyanchenko or Golovkin. We look at things like that. I'm one of the longest fighters that he's faced too, and I'm so fast, so I think I can use all that to my advantage."

"Sometimes in boxing you have to prove yourself. If you don't have the name, the power and the brand to really be marketed to the world, you have to work harder to get recognition. I think that with the win over Canelo, I would be given everything I rightfully deserve. The pound-for-pound list doesn't worry me as that's for the fans. They can pick and choose who they see fit and who they like. That's a favoritism thing anyway, so if I'm not the fans favorite after this fight, I've got a lot more work to do. I need to not worry about that but concentrate on winning the fight in the ring and the rest will come."

"Controversy sells but that's not who I am. That's not where I came from. I'm not sure if that's why I am not a household name, but I can't concentrate on that. I stay true to who I am and how I was raised. I'll always keep that integrity and try to be a stand-up guy. Also, by having a son, I know he watches everything that I do, and I can't be acting up and being goofy to get more ratings. Boxing is my job, I have to stay professional and disciplined to get the job done."

"I never look past any fighter, but it's absurd that Golovkin and his team would always say that people are fearful of facing them and that they were in it for the love of the sport and to fight the best. Me getting the win over Canelo, you would think that they would want the rematch, but we heard it out of their own mouths that they still wouldn't want the rematch if I win. They would rather fight Canelo. So, we see from that that boxing is a business. It's a compliment for sure that he thinks that way. Golovkin knows he lost the fight against me. I saw it in his eyes when they gave me the decision, and he's never been vocal about giving me the rematch. It's either been small talk or just swept under the rug. So, for me, I just want to make sure that I not only fight Golovkin again and prove the naysayers wrong, but show him that he knows that I am better than he is."

"I love energy. Regardless of the fans rooting for Canelo or booing me, I take it and use it as fuel. I want people to chant, roar, raise the roof, it doesn't matter if it's for me or against me, I just want that energy in the arena to feed off, and that's what I am expecting on May 4."

"I haven't done anything majorly different than in any other training camp. We've had a lot of guys who spar similar to Canelo's style, and I've kept my camp here in New York. We have everything we need here at Competitive Edge Athletics. I've been here for six years and this is the biggest fight I've ever had. I wanted to be at home and feel that energy from where it all started. I wanted feel the vibes and then go to Las Vegas for the victory."

"We leave tomorrow, so I'm going to go to Brownsville before I go to get some love to take with me that I was raised from and go out and conquer the world. It's Brooklyn versus everyone where I'm from. This is the opportunity and my one shot to achieve my dreams. It's hard to explain the feeling you get of being from Brooklyn, so to go back and feel the love before I go to Vegas is important."

ANDRE ROZIER, TRAINER OF DANIEL JACOBS:

"This is what we've groomed Danny for since he was 13 years old. Now is his time. It's the biggest fight of his life and one of the biggest and best fights in boxing, and Danny will be the victor on May 4. This is not something that's just fallen into Danny's lap as a gift. This is many years of hard work and dedication and now his moment is here."

"You train fighters to be ready for everything and anything you might get. You never know what Canelo might bring into the ring. He could show something new. So, we're not training for Canelo the counter-puncher or Canelo the boxer-mover; we're ready for everything, and there's no particular way to prepare for that. We just have to stay sharp and smart, and we should be ready for anything."

"He's my baby, my boy. Danny showed early that he was elite and special. When he was afflicted with cancer, we thought we were going to lose him. God put his hand on him, kept him with us, and he started coming to the gym. Then, he had this huge brace on and he'd walk down the steps one and a time and the kids would help him. He'd do a little bit of shadow boxing and then a bit on the bag, and every day he would improve until he became a world champion. That's why I believe that he's still improving and will unify the titles."

"Canelo and Golden Boy have been completely professional and great to work with from day one - but now it's fight time. I know that they are getting ready and we're getting ready. Danny has never let me down and in Las Vegas he becomes unified middleweight champion of the world. We did the ten pounds to win the IBF title against Sergey, so it won't be a problem, he'll make it easily."

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Tecate, "THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING" and Hennessy "Never Stop. Never Settle."The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Coyle vs. Burwell Ireland vs. Italy Apr. 25th RJJ Boxing on UFC Fight Pass event at Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall in Las Vegas, Nevada

2019-04-16T03:30:00.001-04:00

Coyle vs. Burwell Ireland vs. Italy Apr. 25th RJJ Boxing on UFC Fight Pass event at Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall in Las Vegas, Nevada

Former Two-Division Champion Garcia Battles All-Action Granados on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes on Saturday, April 20 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California

2019-04-15T04:22:00.000-04:00

DANNY GARCIA

“I’ve been training hard. I’ve seen Granados fight a few times and I know what he can do. I’m excited to be back in Los Angeles, because this is where the stars fight. This is another fight that can get me to where I want to go in my career.

“My mentality is that I have to stop Granados. Nobody has stopped him and I have to do that to make a statement. He’s never fought a counter puncher like me and I’m definitely the hardest puncher he’s faced. I’m going to showcase everything to get the stoppage.

“This is another fight for my legacy. There have been a lot of great fights in my career and this is another important one for me. I know he’s coming to fight, but I’m looking to make this one of my easiest wins.

“He’s a tough and aggressive fighter who likes to throw a lot of punches. He’s hungry, and that’s the type of guy that you have to watch out for. I’ve got to handle my business against Granados before I look to any bigger fights.

“This is a big platform for me to perform on. I’m going to show the world why I’m one of the best fighters in the world.

“I plan on winning with style. I’m going to bring a lot of skill, a lot of will, a lot of power and I’m going to entertain my fans. April 20 will be the ‘Danny Garcia Show.’”

ADRIAN GRANADOS

“This is going to be a great fight. We’re two fighters who bring it. I’m coming for a victory in dominating fashion. This is the fight that I’ve wanted for a while now.

“I haven’t had the easiest road and that’s why I’m looking to get my respect in this fight. I’m looking forward to this. It’s going to be a barnburner. May the best man win.

“If he’s underestimating me it will definitely be a big mistake on his part. I don’t think he will though. I think he realizes now he’s in for a fight. If he didn’t know me before, he does now. I’m going to give him a piece of my mind April 20.

“I was never taken care of coming up. I always had to work harder to get to where I’m at. Danny and I basically had the same accolades in the amateurs, and I always gave him kudos for what he’s done in his whole career, but he doesn’t know what I’ve gotten through to get here.

“I’m coming to get my respect in this fight. I’m going to make Danny fight and see what he’s made of. I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder but being able to take out a fighter like Danny is motivating me to another level.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Premier Boxing Champions has made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and biggest fights to Southern California. We started with the Wilder vs. Fury heavyweight title fight downtown in December and we’re back again in April at the Dignity Health Sports Park. This is the premier outdoor boxing venue in the United States and we have a great show there on April 20.

“Danny Garcia is a throwback fighter. A first-ballot Hall of Famer in my opinion. At 140-pounds he took on the best in the division and never backed down from a challenge. Danny was a 2-1 underdog when he fought Lucas Matthysse, and we knew what happened after, he proved the doubters wrong. I’m so excited to have him back in California on this great card.

“Adrian Granados could arguably be sitting up here with a record of 27-1, since all but one of his losses have been by split or majority decision, and usually it’s in his opponent’s backyard. He’s a battle-tested veteran who’s made a name for himself bringing action-packed fights to the fans. When we announced all the PBC on FOX fights, this is the one that I circled.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of President of Mayweather Promotions

“This is going to be a terrific fight. I’ve really been looking forward to this fight because I’ve known these guys for a long time. Styles make fights and in this particular matchup, we have two fighters who are all action.

“Danny has shown that he’s an elite fighter, because he’s beaten a number of great world champions. Adrian Granados always comes to fight. He’s never ever in a boring fight. The styles mesh so well, with Danny being a world class counter-puncher and also being a superb boxer. Granados is going to force Danny to fight on the inside a lot more than usual.

“I think this fight is going to bring the best out of both Danny and Adrian. They’ve both fought a number of very good fighters and been in involved in numerous debatable decisions. They’re going to have to leave it all in the ring come April 20.”

MANO-A-MANO: CANELO VS. JACOBS TO DEBUT TODAY, THURSDAY, APRIL 11 AT 10:00 P.M. ET/7:00 P.M. PT FOUR-PART SERIES TO STREAM LIVE ON FACEBOOK WATCH VIA GOLDEN BOY FIGHT NIGHT PAGE

2019-04-12T03:46:00.001-04:00

MANO-A-MANO: CANELO VS. JACOBS TO DEBUT

TODAY, THURSDAY, APRIL 11 AT 10:00 P.M. ET/7:00 P.M. PT

FOUR-PART SERIES TO STREAM LIVE ON FACEBOOK WATCH

VIA GOLDEN BOY FIGHT NIGHT PAGE

The Golden Boy production of Mano-A-Mano: Canelo vs. Jacobs will premiere today, Thursday, April 11 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT on Facebook Watch as part of the lead up to Canelo vs. Jacobs. The four-part series will deliver an in-depth look into biggest fight of the year, which will take place Saturday, May 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN. Fans can watch the series by clicking here. https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=660248181075120

"Golden Boy has always been interested in sharing stories about our fighters," said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. "We aren't just promoting a fight. We are also telling a story about two great men who will put everything on the line to cement their legacy as fierce warriors. Both men have their own touching stories to tell, and we as a leading media and entertainment brand have the responsibility of sharing them. In that way, we ensure that fans on May 4 understand the magnitude of this event and connect with the fighters on a deeper level."

Mano-A-Mano is an original production of Golden Boy, where Oscar De La Hoya serves as Executive Producer. The series has evolved from a television show developed for ESPN to a four-part series that is tailor-made for the Facebook Watch platform. The series will have a full story arc covered in four eight-minute chapters that each have their own unique title. Mano-A-Mano will feature exclusive interviews with fighters, trainers and promoters, along with exclusive footage from both fighters' training camps.

This four-part event will take place every Thursday leading up to Canelo vs. Jacobs at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT on the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Episode 1: Adversity streams Thursday, April 11
Episode 2: Family streams Thursday, April 18
Episode 3: Legacy streams Thursday, April 25
Episode 4: Rivalry streams Thursday, May 2

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. Lemieux vs. Ryder is a 12-round super middleweight battle presented by Golden Boy in association with Eye of the Tiger Management and Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Tecate, "THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING" and Hennessy "Never Stop. Never Settle." The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

DANIEL 'MIRACLE MAN' JACOBS DISCUSSES HIS MENTAL PREPARATION AHEAD OF HIS FIGHT AGAINST CANELO ALVAREZ

2019-04-12T03:38:00.001-04:00

DANIEL 'MIRACLE MAN' JACOBS DISCUSSES HIS MENTAL PREPARATION AHEAD OF HIS FIGHT AGAINST CANELO ALVAREZ

CANELO VS. JACOBS TAKES PLACE SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019 AT T-MOBILE

ARENA AND STREAMED LIVE EXCLUSIVELY ON DAZN

Daniel "Miracle Man" Jacobs (35-2, 29 KOs), IBF Middleweight World Champion, talked about his mental preparation ahead of his unification fight against WBC, WBA, Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion. Canelo Alvarez (50-1-2, 34 KOs). The 12-round fight will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas Saturday, May 4 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Jacobs, 32, feels he has the mental advantage after having overcome a tough battle with cancer. The native of Brooklyn, New York also noted that he has a strategic advantage over Canelo because he has studied him for his entire career and because of his unique blend of abilities.

Below is what Daniel Jacobs had to say after a recent workout:

"This is my opportunity to prove what I have been saying, that I am the best middleweight in the world. Doing the impossible is not new to me. Ten years ago, I was in a wheelchair in the hospital. Fast forward to now and I'm fighting for middleweight supremacy. You can't make this story up, and I feel like this is my destiny."

"I've looked death in the eyes. It happened when I was in the hospital bed with my back to the wall after doctors told me that I had cancer and would never box again. I've been through the toughest of all mental battles. I see it and feel it. Canelo hasn't faced and beaten an opponent like cancer, but I have, so to me I am already a victor."

"Canelo is a true champion with superstar status who has fought so many great fighters, so to step in the ring with him is an honor for me. But aside from that, my legacy is on the line here. I have so much to gain from this fight, and I look forward to doing that and giving the fans a great show. I want to be a Hall of Famer one day, and you only achieve that by fighting the best like Canelo."

"I was surprised in a way when the fight was getting close, and I was still worried until the contracts were signed. I didn't believe that I would get the fight even when we were negotiating because anything can happen in boxing. Sometimes you hear things. You hear people say that Canelo doesn't want to fight the best guys out there. But I was confident in my team getting it done, and I take my hat off to Canelo and his team for taking the fight. Now it's time to put on something great for the fans."

"Canelo wanted to make history against Rocky [Fielding], and I respect that. It was an easy fight, but he'd had two hard fights with GGG before that, and they were tough and great matches. He's a champion; you know he's going to bring it and that just brings the best out of me."

"To prepare for a fight, you have to study film and look at flaws and things you can exploit, but I've been studying Canelo for all of my career as I was a fan of him and still am. I know his style and I don't need to watch his fights with Golovkin and compare them to my fight with Golovkin as every fighter is different and every fight is different. For me, it's all about adjusting on the night because I can plan for the Canelo that fought GGG and he can be a completely different style on the night. GGG is not as fast as me and I'm bigger. I'm sharper."

"Every fighter has a flaw or makes mistakes that you can exploit. I'm a longer fighter. I'm just as fast, I'm stronger and I have skills, too. I am not like the recent opponents that just come forward. I can go back and side-to-side and I can switch stances. I can do a bit of everything in the ring, so it's going to be a challenging fight for him and I really believe my hand will be raised that night."

"Andre Rozier is one of the greatest trainers of our generation, and I trust him 100 percent. We're going to be in great shape and totally prepped. I just have to be the best me as I have all the weapons and components to beat him and prove I am the number one Middleweight out there."

"My life and my story resonate with a lot of people all around the world, so I am not worried about becoming a bigger star, that's not my focus. In my opinion, I am already a great person outside the ring and I set a great example for people that follow in my footsteps, especially from my neighborhood. I'm doing my job in that aspect."

"We don't need to talk trash. That's not what I am about, and I don't think he is either. I've done it before with some opposition because if it's in them and if you want to be about it, I can be about it. Trust me. But truly I am a person who likes to show respect and I want the fans to see that because as fighters, we can have negative things placed on us from the past. I want to be a stand-up guy that represents the sport because that's what we are doing; we are ambassadors for boxing and at the elite level."

Canelo vs. Jacobs is a 12-round fight for the WBC, WBA, Lineal, Ring Magazine and IBF Middleweight World Titles presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Tecate, "THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING" and Hennessy "Never Stop. Never Settle." The event will take place Saturday, May 4, 2019 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Terence Crawford vs. Amir Khan, Live on PPV, April 20th

2019-04-11T03:58:00.000-04:00

Terence Crawford vs Amir Khan - Official PPV Live Stream: ✓ Top Rank Boxing ✓ Boxing, Events ✓ LIVE Apr 20, 9PM ET/6PM PT

DEONTAY WILDER VS. DOMINIC BREAZEALE NEW YORK PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

2019-04-09T01:51:00.002-04:00

“Every man I’ve faced; they’ve landed on the canvas. I’m going to continue to do that on May 18,” - Wilder

“I’m sick of seeing this guy walking around with his belt. I’m going to put him down,” - Breazeale

WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder

Defends His Title Against Mandatory

Challenger Dominic Breazeale on Saturday, May 18

Live on SHOWTIME^® From Barclays Center in Brooklyn

WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale went face-to-face Tuesday at a heated press conference to officially announce their heavyweight title showdown taking place Saturday, May 18 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from Barclays Center:

DEONTAY WILDER

“It’s a pleasure to be back here in Brooklyn. Barclays Center is very close to my heart. I’ve been here so many times and I have a real connection to this arena. I’ve had some of my most memorable moments in the ring here.

“It’s always great to get a mandatory out of the way. They’re like flies buzzing in my ear. I just want to get them out of the way so I can do great things for the heavyweight division. I want one champion, one face, one name, but you need a lot of cooperation to make that happen.

“I want to prove to the world that I’m the best. That’s what I believe in my heart. Until someone proves me wrong, I will continue to believe that. Breazeale is the next man in line. I can’t wait for this one.

“I’m just going to show everyone on May 18. The way I feel right now, the fight could be this week. The champion must always be ready for whatever a challenger can bring.

“I hope he’s training his hardest. I’m glad he has Virgil Hunter on his side to show him something new. Every man I’ve faced; they’ve landed on the canvas. I’m going to continue to do that on May 18.

“No man who gets in the ring will be able to defeat Deontay Wilder. I hold the keys to the heavyweight division. No fighter is doing what I’m doing. I’m trying to give the fans something they’ve never seen before.

“Enjoy this one, because it’s going to be a massacre. May 18 will be a beautiful day for me and a beautiful day to see what I’m planning to do for the sport of boxing.”

DOMINIC BREAZEALE

“I’m super excited for this. I’ve been waiting over a year and a half for a shot at this title. I’ve got three knockouts here at Barclays Center and I can’t wait for another.

“I’m a great fighter but there are always things to be learned. I’ve learned a lot already with Virgil Hunter. I bring something that everyone wants to see from heavyweights, and that’s trouble. I’m going to bring pressure and action.

“I’m sick of seeing this guy walking around with his belt. I’m going to put him down. People are going to be rising to their feet when I knock him down.

“I’m so excited to get this fight. I’ve been on Deontay’s undercards and I steal the show every time. Deontay does nothing right in the ring. He looks like a circus-act. All he does is talk. But there’s nothing he can say on May 18.

“Deontay loves to hear his own voice. All he does is talk and talk. It’s time to get in the ring. Nobody can get in there and save him. It’s just me and him. Leather on leather. We’ll see who lands first. Hopefully he gets off the canvas.”

VIRGIL HUNTER, Breazeale’s Trainer

“It’s a pleasure to be here at Barclays Center for a heavyweight championship fight. We have a monumental task to try to overcome. Dominic and I connected last month and after a few workouts, we saw we had a good fit and an understanding of what needs to be done.

“Dominic works hard, he’s very determined and he knows that this is his opportunity and he can’t let it slip away from him. He also knows the risk at hand. We’re looking forward to May 18.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“We are thrilled to be bringing you Deontay Wilder vs. Dominic Breazeale on SHOWTIME. It would be an understatement to say that there has been a lot of speculation regarding Deontay’s future. We’re proud to have him on SHOWTIME. It was critical for Deontay, for the sport and his fans, that this fight be available not on pay-per-view, but on SHOWTIME. Because of his insistence, that’s the primary reason we’re standing here today.

“SHOWTIME is where this fight belongs. We’re the home of the biggest fights and best talents, month in and month out. This is where a heavyweight title fight belongs. This will be Deontay’s 12^th appearance on SHOWTIME and or SHOWTIME PPV and we’ve built something special.

“Recently ESPN named its World Fame 100, which lists the most talked about athletes in the world. Deontay is ranked 34, two slots behind Tom Brady and higher than any other active boxer in the sport. He’s a bonafide superstar, there is no question.

“Dominic Breazeale is big, strong, experienced and powerful. Above all, he’s motivated. It’s no secret that there is a personal rivalry between these two fighters. This will not be a friendly promotion. There is genuine animosity. This is a premium fight and this is the heavyweight championship on May 18 live on SHOWTIME.”