Month: June 2017

Lightweight World Champion Robert Easter Retains Title with Hard Fought Victory over Top Contender Denis Shafikov

Lightweight World Champion Robert Easter Retains Title with Hard Fought Victory over Top Contender Denis Shafikov in Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce Main Event Friday Night from the Huntington
Center in Toledo, Ohio

 

Super Welterweight Contender Julian Williams Stops Joshua Conley in Round Seven

&

Jamontay Clark Gets Decision Over Ivan Golub in Showdown of Welterweight Prospects

 

Click
HERE
for Photos from Heather Nearhoof/Premier Boxing Champions – (Photos to be added shortly)

 

TOLEDO, OH.
(July 1, 2017) – Unbeaten lightweight world champion
Robert Easter (20-0, 14 KOs) successfully defended his title for the second time Friday night with a victory over top contender
Denis Shafikov (38-3, 20 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions
on Bounce from the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio.

 

“I’m thankful for my team preparing me for this victory,” said Easter. “I give my performance a B- tonight. I could have done a lot better. I fought on the inside more at the beginning of the fight
but my team wanted me to box so I was able to do that late and get the win.”

 

The 12-rounds of action were defined by both men having success when imposing their differing styles on each other. Easter had a height and reach advantage that allowed him to jab from the outside
in addition to the consistent success he had following up with right hands to Shafikov’s head.  

 

“I know a lot of guys’ weakness is their gas tank so I wanted to go after him and test him early,” said Easter. “Shafikov proved that’s he’s a tough opponent but we were able to get the job done.”

 

Shafikov was never deterred as he continued to press forward and as the fight went on he was able to increasingly frustrate Easter and land looping shots from awkward angles. He was especially fond
of a chopping right hand that was able to land while jockeying for position on the inside with Easter.

 

The fight ebbed and flowed for 12-rounds, with both men gaining control for moments before being forced to deal with adversity. Easter was given the unanimous decision and retained his belt, although
the judges scores of 120-108 twice and 116-112 did not capture the competitive nature of the contest.

 

“I thought that’d I’d be the first guy to be able to break Shafikov down,” said Easter. “I was able to get the win and I’m going to be ready for everybody out there.”

 

Additional televised action saw super welterweight contender
Julian Williams (23-1-1, 15 KOs) return to the ring with a seventh-round stoppage of
Joshua Conley (14-2-1, 9 KOs).

 

Williams was dominant from the start in his first outing since losing a world title fight against unbeaten Jermall Charlo in December. The Philadelphia-native pushed Conely to the ropes from the
start and began mixing in left hooks and uppercuts that damaged Conley.

 

Conley was able to land occasional power punches, but was never able to slow the attack from Williams. Early in round seven a left to the eye forced Conley to take a knee and try to recover.

 

Williams sensed his opportunity and quickly pounced on Conley, teeing off with power punches until Conley’s corner threw in the towel and forced the referee to stop the fight 58 second into the
round.

 

In the televised opener, welterweight prospects
Jamontay Clark (12-0, 7 KOs) and Ivan Golub (13-1, 11 KOs) battled for eight hard rounds before Clark emerged with a unanimous decision victory.

 

Clark came out early trying to use his height and reach advantage by jabbing and staying away from Golub, while also mixing in left hands. Golub started out slow in the first two rounds, trying
to establish a body attack while taking several hard punches from Clark.

 

Golub and Clark increasingly began to exchange power shots throughout the third and fourth rounds before Golub landed a powerful right hand that clearly shook Clark up late in the fourth. The Cincinnati-native
was able to recover and stay on his feet however and return to his corner without being knocked down.  

 

Golub continued to keep the pressure on as Clark regained his composure while spending most of the fifth round moving laterally away from Golub. The final rounds saw Clark returning to his boxing
fundamentals as he tried to keep the aggressive Golub at a distance with his jab. After eight rounds of action, the judges ringside saw the fight for Clark by the scores of 77-75 twice and 79-73.

PBC Summer Schedule


Premier Boxing Champions Puts the Sizzle in Summer

 

Five Shows Feature Hotly Contested Battles at

126, 140, 147, 154, 160 & 175 Pounds, Plus Heavyweights Battles to Highlight Action-Packed July Schedule

 

Adrien Broner and Mikey Garcia Clash in 140-pound

Showdown; Jermall Charlo Makes 160-pound Debut

And Victor Ortiz Returns To The Ring

 

LAS VEGAS (June 29, 2017) – Fast on the heels of an exhilarating slate of shows in June,
Premier Boxing Champions roars into July with five shows that feature action-packed matches in some of the hottest divisions in boxing.

 

“July isn’t typically one of the busiest months for boxing, but Premier Boxing Champions is challenging that notion with a fully loaded schedule of big time matches during the month,” said Tim Smith, Vice President of Communications
for Haymon Boxing. “Adrien Broner versus Mikey Garcia, Jermall Charlo making his debut at 160 pounds against Jorge Sebastian Heiland and the return of Victor Ortiz offers some intrigue to the run of shows during the month.”

 

Kicking off the slate of shows is an all-action card that features
Omar Figueroa versus Robert Guerrero in a 147-pound clash of former champions;
Marcus Browne taking on Seanie Monaghan in a battle of unbeaten light heavyweights and
Artur Szpilka against Adam Kownacki in an all-Polish heavyweight showdown at NYCB LIVE at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island, New York on July 15 in primetime on FOX and FOX Deportes starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

 

On the same night and from the same location Jamal James takes on
Jo Jo Dan in a 147-pound match and Brandon Figueroa meets Eliecer Aquino in a 118-pound match on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT from Long Island.

 

Three days later featherweight prospect Miguel Flores looks to bounce back from the first loss of his professional career when he meets former title challenger
Chris Avalos in a 10-round, 126-pound match from Rapides Parish Coliseum in Alexandria, Louisiana on
TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes on July 18 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-feature a pair of 175-pound prospects clash when
Ahmed Elbiali meets Leo Hall in a 10-round contest.

 

In what has all the earmarks of an instant classic, lightweight world champion and unbeaten three-division champion
Mikey Garcia jumps up to 140-pounds to take on four-division champion Adrien Broner in a main event showdown presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York and live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, July 29. In the co-feature,
former 154-pound champion Jermall Charlo meets Jorge Sebastian Heiland in a 12-round, 160-pound title elimination bout.  Additional action will see highlights of former heavyweight title challenger
Gerald Washington battling Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller in a 10-round heavyweight showdown.

 

The next night former 147-pound world champion
Victor Ortiz returns to the ring to take on Saul Corral in a 10-round welterweight bout from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California in a special Sunday edition of PBC on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on Sunday, July 30.
In the co-feature, 154-pound contender Justin DeLoach clashes with Fernando Guerrero. Also on the card is 2016 Olympian
Karlos Balderas in his second pro fight.

Welterweight Jamal James Battles Former Title Challenger Jo Jo Dan 

Welterweight Jamal James Battles Former Title Challenger Jo Jo Dan in Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Action Saturday, July 15 from NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
on Long Island

 

Plus! Unbeaten Prospect Brandon Figueroa Faces Eliezer Aquino in Bantamweight Matchup

 

Coverage Begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT Following

PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Telecast

 

LONG ISLAND, NY (June 29, 2017) – Once-beaten welterweight Jamal James (20-1,
9 KOs) will meet former title challenger Jo Jo Dan (36-4, 19 KOs) in a 10-round showdown featured on Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, July 15 at the newly-renovated NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans
Memorial Coliseum.

 

Televised coverage on FS1 begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, immediately following the PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes show headlined by a welterweight brawl between former world champions Omar Figueroa
and Robert Guerrero.

 

The FS1 show will also see unbeaten prospect Brandon Figueroa (12-0, 8 KOs) competing on his older brother Omar’s undercard as he takes on Eliezer Aquino (19-2-1, 13 KOs) in an eight-round
bantamweight attraction.

 

“I’m excited to be able to get back in the ring on July 15,” said James. “I’m grateful to have the team that I have so that I could fight on this great card in Long Island on FS1 and FOX Deportes.
I’ve been training hard and I’m hungry and anxious to get back in the ring and show off my skills.”

 

“I am back at welterweight for my fight on July 15 and I plan on putting on a good performance so that I can get back in the mix for a world title shot,” said Dan. “I am having a great training
camp at the Grant brothers’ gym in Montreal and I’ll be in top shape on fight night. My team and I are thrilled to be part of this event that brings big-time boxing back to Long Island.”

 

Televised coverage on FOX and FOX Deportes begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten light heavyweights
Marcus Browne and Seanie Monaghan in a 10-round bout and a showdown between Polish heavyweights
Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees) and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting
www.ticketmaster.com,
www.nycblive.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the Ticketmaster Box Office at NYCB LIVE.
Group discounts are available by calling 516-231-4848.

 

A tall welterweight at 6’2″, James looks to bounce back after a decision loss to Yordenis Ugas last August in which the 28-year-old accepted the fight on less than a week’s notice. Fighting out
of Minneapolis, Minnesota, James was unbeaten in his first 20 fights as a pro including impressive victories over Javier Molina and Wale Omotoso that began his 2016 campaign.

 

Born in Romania, Dan fights out of Quebec, Canada and has picked up victories in two of his three stateside fights. A pro since 2004, Dan was unbeaten in his first 26 professional starts. He owns
two impressive victories over Canadian rival Kevin Bizier and challenged Kell Brook for his welterweight title in 2015. Dan fought twice at 154-pounds, including a challenge of now world champion Jarrett Hurd, before moving back down in weight and scoring
a fifth-round stoppage of Jesus Gurrola in March.

 

The 20-year-old Brandon Figueroa turned pro in May of 2015 by defeating Hector Gutierrez and followed that up by stopping Ricardo Mena, Ramiro Ruiz and Francisco Muro to close out the year. The
Weslaco-native stayed busy in 2016, picking up six victories, including five by way of stoppage before starting 2017 with a fourth-round stoppage of Raul Chirino in February and an eight-round decision of Luis Saavedra in May. On July 15 he will fight on the
undercard of his brother Omar for the third time.

 

Fighting out of Higuey, Dominican Republic, Aquino has fought professionally since 2007 and was unbeaten in his first 18 pro bouts. The 30-year-old has previously fought twice in the U.S. heading
into this showdown on July 15. Aquino enters this bout having won his last two bouts by way of stoppage.

Former World Champion Victor Ortiz Returns to Battle Mexico’s Saul Corral 

Former World Champion Victor Ortiz Returns to Battle Mexico’s Saul Corral in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Sunday, July 30 from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield,
California

 

Plus! Super Welterweight Contender Justin DeLoach Faces

Former Title Challenger Fernando Guerrero

&

2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas in Televised Action

Beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

 

Tickets on Sale Friday, June 30!

 

BAKERSFIELD, CALIF.
(June 28, 2017) – Exciting former world champion
Victor Ortiz (31-6-2, 24 KOs)will meet Mexico’s Saul Corral (24-9, 15 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight matchup onSunday, July 30 that headlines
Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes live from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California.

 

Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will feature super welterweight contender
Justin DeLoach (17-1, 9 KOs) taking on former title challenger Fernando Guerrero
(28-4, 20 KOs) in a 10-round showdown and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas
(1-0, 1 KO) in his second pro fight.

 

“This is a great opportunity for me to get back in the ring, shake off the ring rust and put on a show for the fans,” said Ortiz. “I’ve been really focused on training and getting myself back physically
and mentally to where I need to be. This is my first time fighting since my son was born and it’s given me a whole new purpose in life. I’m thankful to everyone who has helped me get to this point and I can’t wait to go do what I do best and entertain everyone
in the arena and watching on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”

 

“I am excited to test myself against another great former champion in Victor Ortiz,” said Corral. “Everyone who has seen me fight knows I will give it my all every time I step into the ring. I plan
on being aggressive and making Ortiz very uncomfortable in the ring. He has had problems overcoming adversity in the ring and I am going to test him and give him everything I have.”

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports, are priced at $80, $45 and $30 and are on sale Friday, June 30 for purchase online at AXS.com.

 

“Every time Victor Ortiz gets into the ring, you know that it is going to be an electric night and I expect another action-packed show on July 30,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar
Sports. “Fans here in California and watching on FS1 and FOX Deportes will get to see the former world champion against the always tough Saul Corral as he works his way back towards the top of the welterweight division. This great show will also feature a
strong matchup between a rising contender in Justin DeLoach and the veteran Fernando Guerrero, plus Ringstar’s own Karlos Balderas, a 2016 U.S. Olympian who loves put on a show in the ring and will continue to prove that he has the skills to fulfill his tremendous
potential.”

 

An action fighter who never shies away from an exchange, Ortiz returns to the ring having picked up victories over the likes of Andre Berto, Vivian Harris, and Nate Campbell while also facing the
top fighters in the sport including Floyd Mayweather, Marcos Maidana and Lamont Peterson. The Kansas-native has spent time in recent years to film roles in movies such as “Southpaw” and “The Expendables 3” but is now fully focused on a return to the pinnacle
of the welterweight division.

 

Representing Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, Corralis the winner of 10 of his last thirteen bouts including a hard-fought defeat in his last outing against former champion Josesito Lopez. The 30-year-old
has fought professionally since 2006 and went the distance in a 10-round decision loss to U.S. Olympian Sadam Ali last September. He won a Mexican title in July 2016 with a fifth-round stoppage of Francisco Medel and also challenged former champion Mike Alvarado
amongst his 33 career bouts.

 

The 23-year-old DeLoach is one of the fastest rising contenders in the 154-pound division as he enters this bout the winner of his last seven contests, including three wins over previously unbeaten
fighters Domonique Dolton, Junior Castillo and Dillon Cook. His most recent outing saw him deliver a second-round knockout of then once-beaten Christopher Pearson. The fighter from Augusta, Georgia turned pro in 2013 and won his first 10 fights before suffering
a defeat in early 2015.

 

The 30-year-old Guerrero lives and trains out of Los Angeles but grew up in Maryland after being born in the Dominican Republic. The veteran owns victories over Ishe Smith, Abraham Han, Derrick
Findley and Gabriel Rosado plus a defeat in a world title bout against Peter Quillin. A pro since 2007, Guerrero most recently challenged 154-pound contender Tony Harrison last March.  

 

Fighting out of Santa Maria, California, the 20-year-old Balderas is the son of Mexican parents who immigrated to the United States to give their children a better life. Balderas had an impressive
amateur career that included a 2014 Youth National Championship, four National PAL championships and an impressive run in the World Series of Boxing. His amateur career culminated in a trip to the 2016 Olympic Games where he represented the U.S. and defeated
fighters from Kazakhstan and Japan before a decision loss in the quarterfinals. He made his pro debut back in April, forcing Michael Thomas to retire after one round

Robert Easter vs. Denis Shafikov Final Press Conference Quotes & Photos

Robert Easter vs. Denis Shafikov Final Press Conference 

Quotes & Photos

 

Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce this Friday, June 30 from Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio – 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

 

Click
HERE for Photos from De’Aris Ferguson/About Billions

 

TOLEDO, OH.
(June 28, 2017) – Unbeaten lightweight world champion
Robert Easter and top contender Denis Shafikov discussed their world title showdown with media Wednesday in advance of their bout that headlines
Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce this Friday, June 30 from the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio.

 

Televised coverage on Bounce begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features super welterweight contender
Julian Williams taking on once-beaten Joshua Conley. Both fighters were also in attendance Wednesday to discuss their 154-pound matchup.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions in association with Warriors Boxing, are priced at $225 $125, $100, $75, $55 and $35, and are on sale now. Tickets can be
purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. 

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Huntingon Center:

 

ROBERT EASTER

 

“We’ve had a real tough camp. Every day I’ve been pushed by team and I thank them for that. They put me in the position that I need to be in.

 

“I understand that Shafikov is a really tough fighter. They’ve always said the guy in front of me is tough. I’m not here to talk about all the close fights he’s almost won. I will be the first man
to stop him.

 

“Where I come from, we don’t play games. Especially when it comes to somebody taking something from us. We’re not going to let that happen.

 

“I’m thankful for everyone that came out here and everyone who helped put this great card together. I’m just excited to get there in the ring and stand next to him.

 

“I have an advantage in reach, but Shafikov is a tough opponent who’s coming to fight. I’m going to show-off my skills and be the first to stop him.

 

“I just have to be me. If you’ve ever seen me fight, you can see that I always stay composed. You’ll see the same thing in the ring on Friday.

 

“When you get in that ring, it’s only me and him. These great fans can’t help me, only my fists. I’m focused on taking control of the fight. I know how to adjust and be a professional in there if
I have to.

 

“It’s been eight tough weeks of training camp and I can’t wait to have this beautiful city behind me. On June 30, it’ll be man down!”

 

DENIS SHAFIKOV

 

“I believe that this is my time. It’s my third title fight and this will be the time that I take home the belt and reach my dream.

 

“I give 100 percent every time I step into the ring. I know that this will be an exciting fight but I also know that I have to do whatever it takes to win the title.

 

“I’ve been able to bounce back after my last two title defeats and make myself a better fighter each time. You will see that on Friday night and I will be victorious.”

 

JULIAN WILLIAMS

 

“I appreciate everyone coming out to support the fight. This is really a great card. I watch Robert a lot on television and I can see that the fans here are really supporting him. I’m looking forward
to an excited crowd.

 

“Joshua Conley and myself will put on a really good fight, and I expect to come out on top and get back in that win column.

 

“I’m ready to challenge anybody in the division and I’m going to show that I’m back on the right track this Friday night.”

 

JOSHUA CONLEY

 

“I’ve put in the hard work during camp to get a big victory and put myself on the map in the 154-pound division.

 

“I know that I’m fighting a really good fighter. This is my opportunity and if I knock Julian Williams out, I’ll be right in the mix with the best super welterweights in the world

Featherweight Prospect Miguel Flores Takes On Former Title Challenger Chris Avalos

Featherweight Prospect Miguel Flores Takes On Former Title Challenger Chris Avalos in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions
TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes July 18 from Rapides Parish Coliseum in Alexandria, Louisiana

 

Plus! Unbeaten Ahmed Elbiali Battles Leo Hall in Showdown of Light Heavyweight Prospects

 

Tickets on Sale Now!

 

ALEXANDRIA, LA.
(June 28, 2017) – Featherweight prospect
Miguel Flores (21-1, 9 KOs) will return to the ring to face former title challenger
Chris Avalos (26-5, 19 KOs) in a 10-round showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions
TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes July 18 from Rapides Parish Coliseum in Alexandria, Louisiana.

 

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features undefeated
Ahmed Elbiali (15-0, 12 KOs) in a 10-round showdown against light heavyweight prospect
Leo Hall (8-2, 7 KOs).

 

“I’m very excited to be fighting back on FS1 and FOX Deportes,” said Flores. “I’ve learned a lot since suffering my first defeat but now it’s time to get back in
the win column. I’m up against a very tough fighter in Carlos Avalos.  I’m just ready to let my hands go and provide the fans with some great action.  This will be a classic Mexican war that the fans will enjoy.”

 

“I’m excited to get in the ring and show that I’m still very dangerous every time I’m in there,” said Avalos. “Flores hasn’t faced somebody like me and if he thinks this will be an easy comeback fight
for him, he’s in for a rough night. I’m going to leave it all in the ring and give the fans watching an action-packed fight. I know I have what it takes to walk out of there with a win.”

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing in association with Keep Punching Entertainment, are priced at $150, $80, $50, $30 and $22, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased
through Ticketmaster at ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000 or at the Rapides Parish Coliseum Box Office.

 

 “Miguel Flores is anxious to bounce back from the first loss of his career and going up against Chris Avalos is the perfect
opportunity for Miguel to show what he’s made of,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “The fans at the beautiful, newly renovated Rapides Parish Coliseum are in for a treat and the show fits in nicely with the Premier Boxing Champions shows
that are always televised on FS1 Toe-to-Toe Tuesdays.”

 

Originally from Michoacan, Mexico, but fighting out of Houston, Flores will look to bounce back from his first pro defeat in February to veteran contender Dat Nguyen.
The 24-year-old had a big 2015 beginning in May with a victory over German Meraz and followed up by wins against Juan Ruiz, Carlos Padilla and Alfred Tetteh. He started 2016 with a headlining win over Mario Briones in January before dominating Ruben Tamayo
over 10 rounds in May and scoring a decision over previously once-beaten Ryan Kielczweski in August.

 

The 27-year-old Avalos enters the ring with a wealth of experience, including a world title challenge against Carl Frampton and a battle with current champion Oscar
Valdez. The fighter out of Lancaster, California earned his world title shot with victories over Yasutaka Ishimoto, Rolly Lunas and Drian Francisco. Avals has also been triumphant over previously unbeaten fighters Yenifel Vicente and Khabir Suleymanov.

 

A native of Cairo, Egypt now residing in Miami, the 26-year-old Elbiali had success in four TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAY appearances over the last two years. Those three contests saw him score a first round
knockout of Fabiano Pena and eight-round unanimous decisions over Mariano Hilario and Andrew Hernandez. Most recently he delivered a first round stoppage of Jackson Junior in March in a fight broadcast on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

 

Leo Hall steps back into the ring looking to rebound from decision defeats to top prospects Earl Newman and Christopher Brooker. Fighting out of Detroit, Hall turned in 2014 and won his first eight
pro fights. The 22-year-old has won seven of his eight bouts by way of knockout since his pro debut

Unbeaten Prospect Miguel Cruz Drops Alex Martin Twice On His Way to Unanimous Decision

Unbeaten Prospect Miguel Cruz Drops Alex Martin Twice On His Way to Unanimous Decision in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions
TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes Tuesday Night From Sands Bethlehem Events Center in Bethlehem, Pa.

 

Clarence Booth Scores Fourth Round TKO Over Anthony Mercado

in Welterweight Battle

 

Click
HERE for Photos Kenyon Sessoms/

Premier Boxing Champions

(Photos to be added shortly)

 

BETHLEHEM, PA.
(June 28, 2017) –
Miguel Cruz (16-0, 11 KOs) earned a unanimous decision to defeat Alex Martin
(13-2, 5 KOs) and remained unbeaten in a welterweight rematch that headlined
Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES
on FOX Deportes Tuesday night from Sands Bethlehem Events Center in Bethlehem, Pa.

 

After winning a split-decision against Martin in their January showdown, Cruz kept his perfect record intact by scoring two knockdowns before getting the decision in their 10-round matchup.

 

“I honestly didn’t feel great in our first fight and when I re-watched it, I thought Martin won,” said Cruz. “That made me train ever harder than ever to prove that I have the skills and power to
compete at the world class level, and I think I did that tonight.”

 

Cruz got off to a fast start by landing a huge left hook that caught Martin and dropped him late in the first round. Martin was able to get to his feet and recover just before the bell sounded to
end the round.

 

Martin kept trying to work on the inside but Cruz was determined to push back and consistently landed with big power shots. Another left hook in round four sent Martin to the mat again, although he
appeared less effected than during the first knockdown.

 

“I was fighting his fight tonight,” said Martin. “I just didn’t put on my best performance. The first knockdown was a real knockdown but the second knockdown he hit me in the back of the head.”

 

Round five saw Martin begin to box more effectively, landing several right hands before a left hook landed low, sending Cruz to the canvas and causing referee Gary Rosato to halt the bout while Cruz
recovered.

 

When the action resumed Martin continued to turn the tide of the fight. His movement was very effective and his success with the left hand was consistent throughout rounds five through eight.

 

“Martin was super tough,” said Cruz. “I didn’t think he would make it out of the second round but he definitely gave me problems. I was trying to stop him.”

 

Down on the scorecards because of the early knockdowns, Martin’s comeback effort came up short as Cruz was able to hold Martin off in the final two rounds on his way to earning the decision in the
eyes of all three judges by the score of 96-92.

 

“I knew I was getting back into the fight but I’m not making any excuses tonight,” said Martin. “He won the fight fair and square, congratulations to him.”

 

“I trained for Martin like he was the champion of the world and that’s how I’m going to train for every fight of my career,” said Cruz. “It was a tremendous fight, I’m glad I got the victory. I just
want to go back to Puerto Rico and celebrate my birthday tomorrow.”

 

Additional televised action saw
Clarence Booth (15-3, 8 KOs) stop Puerto Rico’s Anthony Mercado (10-3, 9 KOs) in the fourth round of their welterweight contest.

 

The taller Mercado had success early in the fight while Booth tried to work his way inside and attack the body. Mercado landed a pair of clean right hands in each of the first two rounds that appeared
to daze Booth.

 

“He was a tough fighter,” said Booth. “I needed to get loose for the first couple rounds. I was tense in the beginning.”

 

Fighting out of St. Petersburg, Florida, Booth was able to weather the storm in the first two rounds and began to turn the tide in round three with a clean right hand that staggered Mercado.

 

Booth kept the momentum going and quickly put Mercado on the canvas with a pair of right hands in the fourth round. Mercado was able to get to his feet but eventually Booth broke through again and
stunned Mercado with more right hands. The final flurry prompted referee Eric Dali to call a halt to the bout 1:30 into the fourth frame.

 

“I had a couple of tough losses, but now I am on a major comeback,” said Booth. “I’m so happy to have this opportunity on television and I made the best of it. My
promoter Marshall Kauffman and King’s Promotions will get me great opportunities in the future.”

 

“He hit me with a good shot,” said Mercado. “He jabbed and came with a right hand that I didn’t see coming. I will be back even better

Unbeaten Former World Champion Jermall Charlo Meets Middleweight Contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland in World Title Eliminator 

Unbeaten Former World Champion Jermall Charlo Meets Middleweight Contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland in World Title Eliminator Presented by Premier Boxing Champions on

Saturday, July 29 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn

 

Charlo vs. Heiland Featured on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Live on SHOWTIME®

 

Plus! Heavyweight Attraction Pits Former Title Challenger Gerald Washington Against Unbeaten Jarrell Miller in Undercard Showdown

 

BROOKLYN (June 27, 2017) – Unbeaten former world champion
Jermall Charlo returns to face Argentina’s Jorge Sebastian Heiland in a middleweight world title eliminator featured on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Charlo vs. Heiland is presented by
Premier Boxing Champions live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

 

Televised coverage is headlined by a 12-round super lightweight showdown between four-division world champion
Adrien Broner and unbeaten three-division champion Mikey Garcia.  Additional undercard action will see former title challenger
Gerald Washington (18-1-1, 12 KOs) take on unbeaten Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller
(18-0-1, 16 KOs) in a 10-round heavyweight matchup. Highlights from Washington vs. Miller will be featured on the SHOWTIME telecast.

 

Charlo (25-0, 19 KOs) and Heiland (29-4-2, 16 KOs) will meet in a 12-round eliminator to become the mandatory challenger for the WBC 160-pound championship. Charlo will make his middleweight debut after successfully
defending his 154-pound belt three times, including a highlight reel knockout of then unbeaten Julian Williams last December on SHOWTIME.


“I’ve been training since end of January to prepare myself for the move up to middleweight,” said Charlo. “I’m feeling stronger, I’m feeling smarter and overall, I’m feeling better. Heiland is a tough fighter and I know he plans on bringing his A-game on July
29. He’s just as hungry as me. We both want to be in a place to fight the best in the division, but I never overlook the opponent in front of me. It’s been a great camp so far and I’m ready for this fight. It’s time to make my mark so I can become a two-division
world champion. I plan to take care of business at 160 just like I did at 154.”

 

“I’m thrilled to be facing a great fighter like Jermall Charlo,” said Heiland. “I’ve waited a long time for a chance like this, so I will give it my all. I am fearless and I promise that this
bout will be an all-out war because my career and livelihood are on the line.”

 

Tickets to the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $950, $750, $350, $300, $250, $150, $75, and $50 (not including applicable fees), are on sale now, and
can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Charlo vs. Heiland bout is
promoted in association with TGB Promotions.

 

“The Charlo vs. Heiland and Washington vs. Miller matchups are fantastic additions to night of action that is already eagerly anticipated by boxing fans,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Jermall
Charlo is a star on the rise, but he’ll have a stiff challenge against Jorge Sebastian Heiland as he seeks a path to becoming a two-division world champion. The heavyweight matchup is a very intriguing showdown with Gerald Washington hoping to prove that he
deserves another opportunity at the belt and Jarrell Miller fighting in his hometown and looking to earn his first world title shot. You’re not going to want to miss this night of fights at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and on SHOWTIME.”

 

“This is a great opportunity for SHOWTIME viewers to witness Jermall Charlo’s ascent in the middleweight division in an ordered title elimination bout,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella
Entertainment. “Huge fights could be ahead for him.  Washington and Miller is a significant heavyweight match up. SHOWTIME viewers will see highlights of someone establishing themselves as an immediate player.  Fans at Barclays Center are in-store for a terrific
tripleheader.”

 

“Jermall Charlo was a powerful force as a 154-pound world champion and everyone is curious to see if he can bring the same ferocity to the middleweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions.
“Heiland has been waiting for his chance at a middleweight world title and now he’s one step closer, but Charlo is standing in his way. This will be two fearless boxers, with something to prove and everything to gain, going at each other. The fact that it’s
on the card with one of the best matchups in boxing this year – Broner versus Garcia – makes for a terrific night of boxing at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and on SHOWTIME on July 29.”

 

The twin brother of unbeaten 154-pound champion Jermell, the Charlos became the first twins to hold world titles in the same weight class simultaneously when Jermell won his title in May 2016 while Jermall defended
his belt the same night with a victory over Austin Trout. The 27-year-old will move up in weight as he seeks to become a two-division world champion after delivering a Knockout of the Year candidate against Williams in December. Fighting out of Houston and
training with Ronnie Shields, Charlo won his title in 2015 by stopping Cornelius Bundrage before making his three defenses.

 

Fighting out of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Heiland enters this bout on an eight-fight winning streak including seven by knockout. The 30-year-old turned pro in 2007 with 16 straight victories before challenging
for an interim title in 2010. Heiland’s current winning streak included a knockout victory in Ireland over Irish star Matthew Macklin in 2014. Heiland will be fighting in the U.S. for the second time as a professional after making his U.S. debut last September
with a stoppage of Angel Hernandez.

 

Washington, a U.S. Navy veteran who also played tight end and defensive end at the University of Southern California, returns to the ring after challenging heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder
in February in a bout that was nearly even on the scorecards before Wilder earned the stoppage victory. Fighting out of Vallejo, California, Washington had previously picked up victories over veterans such as Ray Austin, Eddie Chambers Nagy Aguilera and Jason
Gavern on the way to his world title opportunity.

 

Unbeaten since turning pro in 2009, Brooklyn’s Miller will make his Barclays Center debut on July 29 when he enters the ring. The 28-year-old picked up three stoppage victories in 2016, including his most recent
triumph over Fred Kassi on ShoBox: The New Generation that saw him retire the veteran in round three. Miller has won his last seven bouts by knockout and he will look to continue that streak when he steps in against his toughest pro opponent to date

Lightweight World Champion Robert Easter’s World Title Defense Against Top Contender Denis Shafikov to be Live Streamed on Bounce’s New Subscription Service ‘Brown Sugar’ This Friday, June 30 Starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Lightweight World Champion Robert Easter’s World Title Defense Against Top Contender Denis Shafikov to be Live Streamed on

Bounce’s New Subscription Service
Brown Sugar

 

Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce This Friday, June 30 from the Huntington Event Center in Toledo, Ohio Beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

 

TOLEDO, OH.
(June 27, 2017) – An exciting night of
Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce action, headlined by unbeaten world champion
Robert Easter battling top challenger Denis Shafkov, will be available to be streamed live by fans this Friday, June 30 via Bounce’s new subscription-video-on-demand service
Brown Sugar.

 

Brown Sugar features an
extensive and one-of-a-kind library
of iconic black movies as well as
Bounce original programming and series. It
is available for mobile phones and tablets in the Google Play Store and iTunes App Store as well as for
Amazon Kindle Fire tablets in the Amazon Appstore and for computers at
www.BrownSugar.com.
There is a free initial trial period for subscribers with a retail price of
$3.99/month thereafter. Brown Sugar has Google Chromecast capabilities
which allow video to play on televisions directly from mobile devices
available for consumers with Android and iOS devices.

 

Bounce
and Brown Sugar coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature
super welterweight contender
Julian “J-Rock” Williams matching up against once-beaten Joshua Conley
plus a battle between unbeaten welterweight prospects Jamontay Clark and
Ivan Golub.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions in association with Warriors Boxing from the Huntington Event Center in Toledo, Ohio, are priced at $225 $125, $100, $75,
$55 and $35, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting
www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. 

 

Omar Figueroa Training Camp Quotes & Photos – Former World Champion Battles Robert Guerrero in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Main Event Saturday, July 15

HEAT, INTENSITY AND FOCUS: OMAR FIGUEROA TRAINING CAMP NOTES FROM INDIO, CA

Former World Champion Figueroa and Renowned Trainer Joel Diaz Set a Course to July 15 Showdown Against Robert Guerrero


Figueroa Finds Renewed Focus Amidst 118-Degree Desert Heat

 

Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes

 live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT Saturday, July 15 from

NYCB LIVE’s Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island

 

Click
HERE for Photos from Ryan Greene/Premier Boxing Champions

 

Indio, CA (June 26, 2017) – South Texas’s Omar “El Panterita” Figueroa, a former lightweight world champion, heads into training camp on a balmy 118-degree day in Indio, CA, home to his trainer Joel Diaz and his new boxing home-base since January.
Figueroa re-enters the boxing ring on Saturday, July 15 when he takes on former multiple-division world champion
Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero in the 147-pound main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
in the first boxing event at the newly-renovated
NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.  

 

The break that Figueroa took saw him embracing his Weslaco, Texas home, which sits right on the border to Mexico. It was a reset that had been coming for a fighter who fought in both Mexico and the U.S. as an amateur before turning pro after his first semester
in college.

 

“Boxing is a very jealous sport. You do it 100% or you don’t do it at all,” said Figueroa explaining his 18-month break from the ring. “After my last fight I felt that I needed a break – time to be a father, a son, a brother and a friend. I needed the time
to heal my body, mind and soul. I fought with broken hands, I fought world-class athletes; having fought since I was 6, I wanted to take a break and just be human. So I took a year off to heal from the injuries, be with my family and friends, be a father and
just be me.”  

 

It’s a break that Diaz, who Figueroa first trained with three years ago, agrees with. The two made a plan during his break to have the young fighter come from his Weslaco, TX home to California for an extended training period in preparation for his next fight,
as well as set up his camp.

 

“It’s necessary to take time off,” said Diaz. “Sometimes fighters work too hard in training or in the action that they bring to the fights. Omar is the type of fighter that brings a lot of action to his fights and it takes a toll on his body. He’s an all-out
fighter so he needs that time off to recuperate and restart himself. This break in his body and mind helped him recover from that strain so that he could come back and start fresh again. ”

 

Figueroa faces a tough opponent in Robert Guerrero when he steps back in the ring. Not only is Figueroa fighting above his normal weight-class, but he’s also fighting a former world champion across multiple weight-classes known to be a tough and cunning opponent.

 

“Guerrero is one of the toughest challenges for any boxer. He is a tough fighter, he doesn’t back down and he doesn’t quit,” said Figueroa. “You have to go into the fight knowing it’ll go the full 12 rounds and there won’t be any easy moment in the fight. But
I’m prepared for that, it’s what I’ve been training for and it’s who I am.

 

“I’m excited and grateful to be part of bringing boxing back to the Nassau Veterans Coliseum and I plan to set a high standard. When you have fights in this arena, you know they are going be memorable,” added Figueroa.

 

See below for additional quotes from Figueroa and Diaz:

 

Omar Figueroa quotes:

 

On changing camp to Indio, CA and working with Joel Diaz:

“January 1 I was back in the boxing mode. Training, running, focusing on diet and getting ready and into camp. The break has given me more focus and the opportunity to change my camp up.

 

“I am back training with Joel Diaz in Indio, CA and have been going back to Texas to see my family. My dad will always be my father and a big part of my career, but I felt that when I ended my break, I wanted to change my program and go back to Joel. This is
our first fight back and I’m looking forward to it in many ways.”

 

On training camp:

“My health and the time training have been great. I’m getting more and more excited for the fight as I’m getting prepared for it. It’s on my mind.

 

“I’m older, I’m wiser, I have been through this before and know what not to do. It’s the wisdom that comes with experience.”

 

On taking time off:

“It bought me the tranquility and peace of mind that I’m good, I’m healthy, I’m ready for this. This is what I want. I was missing this. I’ve never been more mentally ready for a fight than now.”

 

On his future:

“I don’t plan ahead; I don’t look to next fights. I look at the now and think about future fights after this one. I want to make sure I’m healthy.

 

“I don’t get ahead of myself with boxing. I am a boxer, a former world champion, I love and believe in the power of this sport, but I don’t let it rule my life.”

 

On training with his brother, Brandon Figueroa, in Indio:

“It helps me, we push each other. My family is very competitive so it helps to have someone like that training with me. It helps to have Brandon here as well as my cousins; we push each other to the limits.  We live together, we train together, and we make
sure we are the best we can be.”

 

On fighting for the first time in New York and his expectations:

“This is my first time fighting in New York, I expect the New York crowd to be ready for a good fight, because that’s what they’ll see from me.

 

“I want to be known for good shows. It’s what we get paid to do as fighters. I showcase the technical side of boxing and add a lot of entertainment behind how I fight, so that’s what the fans get.”

 

The role that Mexico, Texas and California play in his career;

“I feel like I get the best of all the worlds. I love Mexico – I go there all the time; I plan to go there after the fight. I love California, it’s taught me a lot, the people, the culture, the boxing here is phenomenal; and obviously Texas is where I grew
up and it’s made me who I am.  I love the opportunities that I get and the things I get to do, who I get to do it with and where I get to do it. ”

 

Joel Diaz, Figueroa’s Trainer:

 

On Training Camp:

“Training camp has been going great, we’ve had no problems like we have had in previous camps with injuries. His hands are healthy, his weight is good and overall he’s healthy. I think the layoff he took helped him a lot, he wants to get back in it and you
can tell he’s motivated. It’s a great camp, great atmosphere and that’s what matters.”

 

On what he’s focusing on:

“Omar Figueroa is a fighter. He’s never going to change. My job is not to change him but make him better. He has a unique style that shows to everyone he’s a very effective puncher and it’s my job to get him in the right condition so he gets hit less, because
he’s a risk taker. You wont see much change on the style, you’ll see the same action Omar that people want to see.”

 

On training both brothers

“They push each other; Omar being the oldest really pushes his brother. They train in two different weight classes and it’s good that they see the work they do amongst each other. They push each other in conditioning and in the ring. It’s good having them together.”

 

On his role as trainer:

“I’m in this sport for the fighters, my pride and my work. I take a lot of pride in what I do and I am not trying to fight for a trophy nor am I in it for myself. I’m in it for my fighters. This is work and I’m here to take full responsibility for the fighters
in my program. I’m here to make my fighters champions in life, not just the ring.

 

“It took me years of hard work and effort, and now that I’m here I have to work harder, keep my same values and work to stay there.”