Press Release – Page 11

CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. CHRISTINA HAMMER NEW YORK MEDIA LUNCHEON QUOTES & PHOTOS

CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. CHRISTINA HAMMER NEW YORK MEDIA LUNCHEON QUOTES & PHOTOS

Photo Credits- Stephanie Trapp-Showtime

“Hammer signed up for something she shouldn’t have signed up for. She’s going to get hurt on Saturday,” – Shields

“She can say whatever she wants here, because I’m going to show it in the ring on Saturday,” – Hammer

Middleweight Champions Shields and Hammer Battle for Undisputed Women’s Middleweight World Championship This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME® from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City

NEW YORK (April 10, 2019) – Undefeated middleweight champions Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer went face-to-face in New York on Wednesday just three days before arguably the most significant event in women’s boxing history this Saturday live on SHOWTIME from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

IBF, WBC and WBA Champion Shields (8-0, 2 KOs) will unify with WBO Champion Hammer (24-0, 11 KOs) for the undisputed middleweight world championship. The winner will become only the second undisputed champion in women’s boxing history and only the sixth fighter – male or female – to unify all four recognized world titles.

Joining Shields and Hammer at Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan was unbeaten heavyweight contender Otto Wallin, who takes on Nick Kisner as part of the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader beginning at 9:10 p.m. ET/PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster and at boardwalkhall.com.

Shields and Hammer spoke with media and had a tense face-off as they near Saturday’s showdown. Here is what the participants had to say Wednesday:

CLARESSA SHIELDS

“Hammer signed up for something she shouldn’t have signed up for. She’s going to get hurt on Saturday. I love that she has an accomplished record. People say I don’t have power or this and that but on paper I’ve been an underdog in most of my fights and I’ve beat all those women.

“When I beat Christina Hammer on Saturday, I want everyone’s headline to say ‘Shields nails the Hammer’. It’s not a game to me. It’s going to be bad for her.

“I’m happy that everyone came out for this event and has supported it. This isn’t as big as women’s boxing can get, but it’s the beginning of something great.

“This is the hardest I’ve ever trained for a fight. Not because I don’t think that I can beat her, but because of the spotlight, I don’t want to let my fans down. I don’t want to let the women who came before me down. They never got to have a fight as big as this one. I don’t want anyone to say it’s all hype. I want to put on a show.

“I’m just being myself. I can’t put all the pressure on me to be something I’m not. I love talking trash, that comes natural. There’s a bit of truth in there too. When it gets to times like this, I’m not afraid to say how I feel.

“The reason why I’m here is because I’ve taken on the biggest challenges and fought the best fighters. It feels good. I know that I’m going to beat her and take all of these belts home.

“I think she’s shook. She doesn’t want to say anything after all the social media talking she was doing. This is her time to say it to my face.

“Women’s boxing is becoming bigger and with ‘All-Access’ you can see that I train hard, spar against men and go hard for three minutes for 12 rounds. We’ve been around for a long time and we haven’t gotten our just do yet. We’re getting more and we’re getting to the point where one day it can all be equal.

“I’m glad Hammer is here and we’re really going to fight. She’s tough, but I’ve beat girls way stronger, faster and taller than her over and over again. I can’t wait to do it again on Saturday.”

CHRISTINA HAMMER

“I’m so happy to be here and have this great opportunity. I can’t wait to get in the ring on Saturday and get all of these belts. I’m ready.

“I’m very confident and I can’t wait to show everyone why I’m 24-0 and been a champion for as long as I’ve been.

“She can say whatever she wants here, because I’m going to show it in the ring. I don’t like to talk too much. I’m here to show my skills in the ring and get all these belts.

“I’m emotionless in the ring, because it’s my job. None of her talk will affect me. When you’re emotional in the ring, you make mistakes.

“I know that it’s a risk to come from Germany to the U.S. to fight Shields. But I have done everything to bring it to her and break her down round-by-round. I want to show the people who the real champion is. A real champion fights everyone, all over the world.

“I’m very focused. I know that this is a historic fight. There is only one champion who can take these belts and that will be me. I’ve given everything for that goal. I sacrificed day after day in camp to achieve that.

“I want to show that I’m the undisputed champion. I’m the longtime champion and I’m going to let the people see that women’s boxing is exciting just like the men. This is a great match to show that.

“We’re both undefeated and in our primes. People wanted to see this fight and they got this fight. All of the talk is over. Now it’s time to fight.”

OTTO WALLIN

“I come from a small town in Sweden and started boxing in a basement. I could never dream of making it here. I read about it, but it wasn’t attainable. Now I’m here and I’m ready to make a statement on Saturday.

“It’s very important to make an impression. This is a very big opportunity for me to be fighting on SHOWTIME in my first fight on the U.S. A lot of people will be watching and I want to put on a good performance. Most important is to get the win and take care of business.

“My opponent is smaller than me and I think that suits me well. He likes to be a little cute in the ring and I think he’ll try to be tricky early on. I want to establish my jab and my body work, because I know he won’t like those body shots. I’m going to break him down.

“I have a good plan and a really good trainer. He’s prepared me well with good sparring. I think I’ll know what to do to stay focus. I’ve always been able to do that and focus on what’s best for me in the ring.

“It’s very nice to be here. I’m very happy to be on this show. It’s great for women’s boxing that the two best fighters are facing each other.”

DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions

“This promotion has lived up to the expectations. This is the biggest fight in women’s boxing history. It feels very big today and I’m sure in a month a day or a year after this fight, we will know that it was a historic event.

“SHOWTIME’s support for this fight has raised the awareness of women’s boxing for the fans in the U.S and around the world. I think women everywhere have benefited from the lead up to this fight.

“in the opener on SHOWTIME, world ranked heavyweight Otto Wallin will make his U.S. debut. Otto is an example of hard work and dreams coming true. He grew up in a small town in Sweden and had a dream to become world champion. He’s been training in New York Joey Gamache and we can’t wait for his fight Saturday.

“For a great fight to happen it takes two to tango. Hammer is a longtime world champion and a dominant force in the middleweight division. You have seen how prepared she is for this fight. It takes championship character to fly to another country to put it all on the line and she deserves respect for that.

“Claressa Shields has passed every test ever put in front of her. She has been dominant as a pro, winning a world title in her fourth fight a second division title in her sixth fight. April 13 will be her toughest test. This is a fight that she is taking very seriously and I’m excited to see her in the ring Saturday.”

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

“I want to acknowledge Claressa and Christina, because it’s easy to forget that this is a fight. That may sound strange, but it’s because there is so much discussion about the meaning and symbolism of this fight. You still have to remember, that beyond all that, these are two athletes preparing for a fight. They each want to win.

“Each of them has taken on the challenge of representing women’s boxing and that should not be overlooked. It would be very easy as a competitor to say that you’re not going to get into that extra stuff. That would be the easier thing to do. But what Claressa and Christina have done is accept that mantle and that challenge. They’ve taken on those discussions. Not just promoting their fight, but engaging in discussions about the future of women’s boxing.

“I’m sure they’re tired of talking at this point and just want to fight. That challenge is something that makes the process more difficult and something they’re doing for selfless reasons. It’s really for the advancement of the sport as a whole. Both women deserve a lot of credit for that.

“This fight is already a success. I know there’s one big piece that still remains, and I’m very excited to see the fight take place. I know they’re anxious to get in the ring. But what this promotion has done is advance the conversation and advance the dialogue. It’s all of our hopes that this will persist beyond this event and lead to a new era of women’s boxing.”

ADRIAN GRANADOS & ANDY RUIZ JR. LOS ANGELES MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

ADRIAN GRANADOS & ANDY RUIZ JR. LOS ANGELES MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Veteran Contender Adrian Granados & Heavyweight Contender Andy Ruiz Jr. Prepare for Respective Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Matchups Saturday, April 20 From Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California

Granados (Granados Garcia April 2019 Mayweather Promotions1

Granados (Granados Garcia April 2019 Mayweather Promotions

Andy Ruiz (Granados Garcia April 2019 Mayweather Promotions1

Andy Ruiz (Granados Garcia April 2019 Mayweather Promotions

Photo Credits- Mayweather Promotions

LOS ANGELES (April 4, 2019) – All-action welterweight Adrian Granados and heavyweight contender Andy Ruiz Jr. continued preparation for their respective showdowns at a media workout in Los Angeles Thursday before they step in the ring Saturday, April 20 as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Granados will face former two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia in a 12-round welterweight bout that headlines action, while the Southern California-native Ruiz takes on Alexander Dimitrenko in heavyweight action as part of the broadcast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to not miss any of the televised action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, in association with DSG Promotions, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or at the Dignity Health Sports Park box office from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Here is what the workout participants had to say Thursday from Fortune Gym in Los Angeles:

ADRIAN GRANADOS

“I feel great. I’m starting to peak and everything is clicking. I had a great camp and I’m just excited for this fight.

“This is a great style matchup. Danny is a strong puncher and a great counter puncher. I’m going to be right there. I’m going to come with it. I also have a lot of intangibles that people don’t see. I’m not one-dimensional and I have a few tricks up my sleeve.

“I think I have more dog in me than Danny does. He complains a lot and also gets away with a lot. He does what he has to do to win. I’ve never been given anything and I think I have a lot more to prove than he does.

“My fights against Shawn Porter and Adrien Broner were good preparation for this. I think against Broner I should have gotten the decision, but I didn’t. Against Porter, I fought the wrong fight and missed the chance I did have. I’ve got a chip on my shoulder from both experiences.

“This is my chance to show the boxing world that I’m elite and get my title shot. I’ve always wanted to become a world champion, and I haven’t got my opportunity at 140 where I beat the number-one contender. I’m not afraid to fight anyone so I’m here to get a big win.

“I think I need a stoppage or a dominating win. It has to be one-sided. I have enough controversial losses that I know that I can’t leave it up to the judges. I’m training hard to dominate the fight.

“I’m kind of a ‘young vet’ because I’m only 29-years-old but I’m battle-tested. I was never promoted until the last three or four years. I’ve had to do what I had to coming up. I took the tough fights that most prospects wouldn’t.

“I always knew I had the talent to be at this level and I’m glad that I’m respected and recognized now, but it’s time for me to get a big win. I’m going to show that I really belong and I’m an elite fighter.”

ANDY RUIZ JR.

“All the hard work in the gym has been paying off and I feel prepared for April 20. I’m facing an experienced guy who’s tall, but I think my pressure and my speed will make it difficult for him.

“We’ve looked at Dimitrenko’s past fights and put together a game plan. We’re going to stick to it and execute. We’re going to attack the body and I think with my speed and combinations I’m going to get him out of there.

“I’m coming back from a layoff but it’s over and right now my goal is to make a statement and let everyone know that I’m back in action. I’m ready to take one of the spots at the top of the division.

“There are a lot of big fights I want, but my mind is totally focused on April 20. I’ve never been this motivated. I’m going to be fighting more often and I’m glad to have the opportunity.

“Fighting for the Mexican fans gives me more motivation now than ever. I want to be the first Mexican heavyweight champion of the world and hopefully this year or next year I will accomplish those dreams.

“I have everything I need now to get to where I want to go. This is just the beginning. The more fights I have, the better I’m going to be looking.

“It feels great to be fighting in Southern California and I know there will be a lot of Mexicans out there on April 20. It’s always a great atmosphere and my game plan is to steal the show. I’m going to give it all I got for the fans.

“I think Dimitrenko is going to use his jab and move around. He’s tall, but he can’t run away forever. At some point you have to be there toe-to-toe. We’ve worked on our head movement and we’re going to be ready for anything he brings.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Andy Ruiz Jr. is exactly where he should be right now. He’s re-dedicated himself to the sport of boxing and when he does, there might not be a better heavyweight out there. He traveled to New Zealand and took on Joseph Parker in his backyard and lost a majority decision. He’s tasted it and he’s hungry for it again.

“Arguably Adrian Granados could have a record of 27-1 and he’s ready for his moment to shine. I like where he’s at mentally as far as taking charge and winning these fights so he can move on and become a champion, which has been his goal since he got into the game.”

UNIFIED MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION CLARESSA SHIELDS MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES AND PHOTOS

“Christina doesn’t know what’s coming for her. I’m going to break that Hammer in half,” – Shields

WBC, WBA & IBF Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields Prepares for Undisputed Middleweight Championship Showdown Against Christina Hammer Saturday, April 13 Live on SHOWTIME® from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City

Photo Credit-Jose Pineiro/SHOWTIME

MIAMI (April 4, 2019) – WBA, WBC and IBF Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields hosted a media workout at 5th Street Gym in Miami Thursday as she nears her showdown against WBO Middleweight World Champion Christina Hammer for the undisputed middleweight world championship Saturday April 13 live on SHOWTIME from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

The two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Shields and unbeaten Hammer will look to become the sixth fighter in history to unify all four major world titles in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (9 p.m. ET/PT).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster and at boardwalkhall.com.

Shields has been training in Florida for the last week with her trainer John David Jackson, after spending the previous five weeks at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado. Here is what Shields had to say Thursday:

CLARESSA SHIELDS

“Christina doesn’t know what’s coming for her. I’m going to break that Hammer in half.

“When we’re in there, it’s about who punches harder. This is a real fight. Just because she has height, doesn’t mean she’s going to dictate what happens. She’s going to have to do a lot to keep me off of her.

“I have two Olympic Gold Medals, three belts and more coming. I’ll have all the titles at the end of the night on April 13.

“I work hard, really hard. If I was a man, I would probably be one of the most famous boxers out there. There is a gender gap. We all know it. I’m working towards changing that. We work hard, we get less money and less recognition, but the world is changing. We are changing it.

“Hammer has been talking smack but I’m not worried about her. I’m just ready for a fight. She talks about a lot of stuff that has nothing to do with boxing. I’m waiting for her to say she’s going to hit me with an uppercut or something, but it’s more of the same.

“Being here in Florida to finish up camp has really been ideal. I’ve still been working extremely hard, but here I have a little extra space and sunshine. It was time for some new scenery in camp and I think this was the perfect move to take me into fight week.

“I’ve been working on my ‘Ali shuffle,’ this gym inspired me. Don’t be surprised if you see me break it out during the fight. I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve. At the press conference there will be some surprises too – I have an outfit picked that is going to steal the show.

“This fight is long overdue and I’m just glad I’m going to get my chance to show her what a real champion is. Someone is going down on April 13 and I promise it’s not going to be me.

“People can say they’re not paying attention to you and not studying you, but they’re lying. I’m glad she’s looking at me closely though. Hammer flew one of my friends out there to be a sparring partner, not even knowing that she hasn’t sparred me in years and knows nothing about me. It makes me know I’m on her mind. She can spar with Ann Wolfe and she still isn’t going to beat me.”

QUOTES, PHOTOS & VIDEO FROM FORMER CHAMPION CALEB TRUAX CHARITY EVENT IN MINNEAPOLIS

QUOTES, PHOTOS & VIDEO FROM FORMER CHAMPION CALEB TRUAX CHARITY EVENT IN MINNEAPOLIS

(Photo Credit: Team Truax)

Minnesota-Native Truax Serves Up Meals for House of Charity Ahead of Showdown Against Former Champion Peter Quillin Saturday, April 13 in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes from The Armory in Minneapolis

Click HERE for Video Recap from Team Truax

MINNEAPOLIS (April 3, 2019) – Minnesota-native and former world champion Caleb “Golden” Truax gave back to his community Tuesday as he teamed up with The Armory to serve meals at House of Charity, a cafeteria and shelter just blocks from The Armory, where he will face Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin on Saturday, April 13 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

Truax was moved by the experience and related the struggles of the people he was helping to his own experience growing up and trying to make a career in boxing.

“It’s humbling to hear other people’s stories because I didn’t have the easiest childhood and my career has often been a struggle,” said Truax. “Nothing has been handed to me, but compared to some of these people, I’ve faced nothing.”

The Food Centre, where Truax served meals Tuesday, feeds more than 350 people each day. House of Charity has served the community in Minneapolis for over 60 years.

“It’s our responsibility as a community to feed these people and to have Caleb and The Armory come out here shows that this whole community has a commitment to making sure people are fed,” said Deb Moses, Executive Director for House of Charity. “It was great having the champ here lending a hand.”

As part of this event and Truax’s “Cut No Corners” campaign, The Armory Foundation will be donating $100 to House of Charity for each of the 19 knockouts that Truax has racked up throughout his career.

“This is really big for me to show that we are all together and we are all people,” said Truax. “We have to serve and care for each other. This shows that people out here in Minneapolis are working hard to solve the problems that we have.”

(Photo Credit: Team Truax)

Tickets for the April 13 event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now, and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

UNBEATEN RISING HEAVYWEIGHTS JERMAINE FRANKLIN & OTTO WALLIN TALK UPCOMING BOUTS & ROAD TO HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Franklin Battles Rydell Booker while Wallin faces Nick Kisner Live on SHOWTIME® Saturday, April 13 Leading Up to Claressa Shields vs. Christina Hammer Main Event from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (April 3, 2019) – Unbeaten rising heavyweight contenders Jermaine Franklin and Otto Wallin will be looking to make a splash and announce themselves in the heavyweight division when they step in for separate bouts live on SHOWTIME Saturday, April 13 from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader will air beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT and is headlined by Claressa Shields battling Christina Hammer for the undisputed women’s middleweight championship.

Franklin will face Rydell Booker while Wallin takes on Nick Kisner in a pair of 10-round attractions leading up to the main event. For both Franklin and Wallin, they see April 13 as a step towards their larger goals.

“Booker is in the way of where I’m eventually trying to be,” said Franklin. “I’m part of that next generation of heavyweights and I’m working hard to end up as the heavyweight champion when the dust settles. I always find a way to win and I’m going to show it on April 13.”

“Coming to the U.S. for the second part of my career is very exciting,” said Wallin. “I’ve accomplished a lot in my career in Europe but this is a new beginning. This is the moment I’ve been dreaming of since I first laced up mitts and I can’t wait to introduce myself to the fans here.”

A 25-year-old from Saginaw, Michigan, Franklin hopes to show that he’s primed to become the next American heavyweight champion, and is ready to take the mantle from current WBC titlist Deontay Wilder and the long line of American heavyweight champions that came before him.

“I’m going to raise the competition amongst the heavyweights,” said Franklin. “The division is definitely back on the map and I’m planning on having a hand in making it must-watch TV once again. America needs another face in the heavyweight division and that’s going to be me.

“I already believe that I am the best heavyweight in the world. There are a lot of big, strong heavyweights, but I’m a balanced athlete, which makes me different. I’m strong, fast, athletic and getting better with each fight.”

Although his native Sweden is not known for boxing, Wallin’s home country has previously produced a heavyweight champion in Ingemar Johansson, who famously stopped Floyd Patterson in their first fight at Yankee Stadium in 1959. After defeating fellow Swedish heavyweight Adrian Granat in his last fight, Wallin decided it was time to fight in the U.S., following previous training camps in New York with trainer Joey Gamache.

“Training here in New York brings me a great energy and it shows in my performance,” said Wallin. “It’s the center of the world, and while I’m fully focused on training, I feed off the energy of the city.

“Ingemar Johansson is of course a big inspiration for me. When he came to the U.S. and beat Floyd Patterson, he was the baddest man on the planet. I’m looking to take that mantle and become a hero for young Swedish boxers, just like he has been for me.”

In addition to being Wallin’s U.S. debut, the unbeaten heavyweights will make their first appearances on SHOWTIME and it will be Franklin’s first time fighting in the northeast. They each hope to show off their respective talents and are prepared for what comes with the increased platform.

“This is a great chance for me to showcase my skills, but I still treat it like just another fight,” said Franklin. “I’m going to adapt to my opponent and expose his weaknesses. I’m always improving because once you think you know it all, that’s when you find out you know nothing.”

“I’m just a kid from a small town in Sweden and I’ve worked hard to get to this point,” said Wallin. “Training here in the U.S. and fighting here is going to help me put on the best performance of my career. The fun begins on April 13 and I’m not stopping until I am champion.”

Both recently signed with Dmitriy Salita’s Salita Promotions and on April 13 will begin a year that could leave each fighter on the precipice of a title shot.

“On April 13 two of the best heavyweight in the world, one from the U.S., one from Sweden, will both have a chance to make a claim that they are ready to challenge for the heavyweight title,” said Salita.

“Jermaine Franklin is by far the best American heavyweight prospect who is soon to be a contender and a champion. He will have a great opportunity to showcase his skills and worth against the experienced, hungry and accomplished Rydell Booker.

“Boxing is a sport of individual stories and Otto Wallin is a great example of that. A top-rated heavyweight from a small town in Sweden, he is showing that dreams, combined with hard work, can come true. He is one of the best heavyweight contenders from Europe and on April 13 he will show that he belongs with the elite in the U.S.”

With this opportunity to announce themselves in the resurgent heavyweight division, Franklin and Wallin are keyed for eye-opening performances next Saturday.

“My ultimate goal is to become world champion and I believe right now I’m on the right path,” said Wallin, who is ranked No. 5 by the IBF and WBA. “I had good years fighting in Europe, but now is the time for me to go to the next level. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m all about and give the fans great fights.”

“I’m planning to be a major force in the heavyweight division by the end of the year,” said Franklin. “It’s my coming out party. I feel like my dreams are going to come true. I’m going to show everyone who I am: the best new heavyweight in the world.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster and at boardwalkhall.com.

CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. CHRISTINA HAMMER NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD TO FEATURE WOMEN’S FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT, UNBEATEN PROSPECTS & MORE!

CLARESSA SHIELDS VS. CHRISTINA HAMMER NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD TO FEATURE WOMEN’S FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT, UNBEATEN PROSPECTS
& MORE!

Saturday, April 13 from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City Headlined by Shields vs. Hammer Battle for Undisputed Middleweight Championship Live on SHOWTIME®

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (March 26, 2019) – Undercard action on Saturday, April 13 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City will feature an exciting lineup, including a women’s featherweight world title matchup and unbeaten prospects stepping in the ring, leading up to the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader headlined by the Claressa Shields vs. Christina Hammer showdown for the undisputed 160-pound world championship.

The undercard lineup is highlighted by unbeaten Russian Elena Gradinar (9-0, 2 KOs) vying for her first world title when she takes on former two-time title challenger Brenda Karen Carabajal (15-4-1, 9 KOs) for the vacant IBF Featherweight World Championship.

“Women’s boxing is experiencing monumental growth throughout the world and as part of this historic night, we wanted to showcase top talent in significant fights,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “I am delighted to feature two top contenders fighting for the vacant IBF Featherweight World Title as highly-regarded and unbeaten Russian fighter Elena Gradinar and longtime Argentinian contender Karen Carbajal will battle to become champion. Top to bottom, April 13 will be a memorable night for boxing fans around the world.”

In super flyweight action, 23-year-old Detroit-native Ja’Rico O’Quinn (11-0, 8 KOs) looks to remain unbeaten in an eight-round fight against Northfield, Minnesota’s Vicente Alfaro Martinez (9-4, 3 KOs).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster and at boardwalkhall.com.

The action will also include former heavyweight title challenger Samuel Peter (37-6, 30 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Mario Heredia (15-6-1, 13 KOs) in an eight-round matchup and Jesse Angel Hernandez (12-2, 7 KOs) of Fort Worth, Texas stepping in for an eight round super bantamweight contest against New Jersey’s Edgar Joe Cortes (6-4-1). Flint, Michigan-native Darrion Lawson will look for his second pro win in as many fights when he faces Saul Almeida in a super middleweight bout.

Former World Boxing Champ Caleb Truax, of Osseo, To Serve Up Meals for House of Charity

Former World Boxing Champ Caleb Truax, of Osseo, To Serve Up Meals for House of Charity
Motivated by his own Childhood Truax Launches #CutNoCorners Campaign to connect with life’s real Fighters
MEDIA EVENT AT A GLANCE
• Who: Caleb Truax, professional boxer, serves meals and dishes up a light work-out
• Where: House of Charity/Food Centre – 714 Park Ave South Minneapolis
• When: Tues April 2nd 11am to Noon – PHOTO OPP
• Why: Truax delivers message and #CutNoCorners campaign
Donations: go to https://secure.qgiv.com/for/caltru

Minneapolis, MN (March 29, 2019) — Minnesota boxer Caleb Truax is hungry for a world title shot and he can satisfy that craving with a win over fellow former champion Peter Quillin this April 13 at the Minneapolis Armory and live on FS1 and FOX Deportes. But first, the Osseo native will do his part to knock out a different kind of hunger.

On Tuesday April 2, Truax will give back to his community as a guest food server for House of Charity, a cafeteria and shelter home mere blocks from the historic Armory in downtown Minneapolis.

In doing so, the boxer will serve some real fighters who know what it’s like to live on the streets.

Truax is a former world super middleweight champion, but he hasn’t forgotten his humble roots. On the contrary, the Twin Cities native has vivid childhood memories of being raised by a single mom with his twin sister and younger brother.

“When we were growing up we didn’t have a lot of money and we were on welfare and had to go to the food shelf once in a while to get some food,” said Truax, who added that he knows what it’s like to wonder where your next meal is coming from.

Deb Moses, executive director of House of Charity, appreciates Truax’s desire to pay it forward. “When high-profile community members like Truax pitch in for events like these, it reduces the stigma of hunger and homelessness,” she said.

“That is really the big thing. To show that we are all together, we are all people. We are all serving and caring for each other. It gives us visibility that we are serving our community; that people out here in Minneapolis are working hard to solve the problems we have.”

The House of Charity event comes as Truax launches his Cut No Corners campaign, which celebrates people like Truax, who worked hard and did things the right way on their journey to success.

“I didn’t have anything handed to me. I never had the luxury of taking the easy way — or cutting corners — and I appreciate when other people work hard and have to take the same path that I have taken to get where I am at in my career,” Truax said.

Another crack at boxing’s biggest prize is at stake as Truax takes on Brooklyn’s Peter Quillin (34-1-1) in a highly anticipated April 13 bout that will headline a nationally televised night of boxing at the historic Minneapolis Armory.

Both boxers are former world champions. The Truax-Quillin showdown is an IBF eliminator fight, which means the winner will get another world title opportunity.
Truax said he intends to get his title belt back, but he’s not looking past Quillin.

“He’s a great fighter. He’s one of the better fighters I’ve ever fought in my career, but I feel really confident going into the fight because it’s a guy that I’ve sparred with before,” Truax said.

“I’m the type of fighter that if I’ve been in the ring with you, if I felt you out, it’s to my advantage. He’s a power puncher, he’s kind of a counterpuncher, and I think that my style matches up really well with his. So I’m really confident going forward,” Truax added.

The Armory Foundation will be in Caleb’s corner for the House of Charity initiative. The foundation is donating $100 for each of the 19 knockouts scored by Truax during a ring career that began in 2007.

About House of Charity
House of Charity’s mission is to feed those in need, house those experiencing homelessness, and empower individuals to achieve independence. Right from the start, in the early 1950s, House of Charity has been about transforming lives. House of Charity moved to its current location at 510 South 8th Street in 1976. Once a hotel, the building now houses 116 men and women who have experienced homelessness. The Food Centre, at 714 Park Avenue, feeds more than 350 people each day. For more information https://www.houseofcharity.org/ or to donate https://secure.qgiv.com/for/caltru

CLARESSA SHIELDS TRANSITIONS TRAINING CAMP TO FLORIDA

CLARESSA SHIELDS TRANSITIONS TRAINING CAMP TO FLORIDA

Unified Middleweight Champion Shields Gives Training Camp Update Ahead of Undisputed Middleweight Championship Showdown Against Christina Hammer Saturday, April 13 Live on SHOWTIME® from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City

“I don’t want these belts handed to me. I’m coming to win every round on April 13,” – Shields

MIAMI, Fla. – March 28, 2019 – WBC, IBF and WBA Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields arrived in Miami yesterday to hold the final portion of her training camp at the Fifth Street Gym as she prepares to take on WBO Middleweight World Champion Christina Hammer in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader Saturday, April 13 live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT) from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.

Shields spent the last five weeks training at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., following a two-week pre-camp in her hometown of Flint, Mich.

“We’ve been going twice a day every day except Sunday for five-straight weeks,” said Shields. “We put in lots of rounds sparring, tons of sprinting, pad work, push-ups, crunches and drills to help with my head movement.

“I’ve put my body through so much on this camp, and now it’s time to start cutting it down a bit. I’m in great shape and my weight is on point. I’m also in a great place mentally and very happy with this camp overall.”

In Florida, Shields is looking to prime herself for her showdown for the undisputed middleweight women’s world championship, in what is considered by many as the biggest fight in women’s boxing history.

“My main focus now is trying to relieve my body while keeping my conditioning,” said Shields. “I’m making sure that I go into fight week with no injuries or soreness. I’ve been in Colorado for over a month and it was time for some new scenery.

“I’m still going to be training very hard in Florida. I just need a little more sunshine and the additional space that’s provided for me down here. We did what we had to do in Colorado. Florida is just an ideal environment all-around and a happy place for me to be these last couple weeks.”

As Shields and trainer John David Jackson near fight night, the two-time Olympic Gold Medalist has a message for her fellow unbeaten opponent. “I know what I can and will do on April 13,” said Shields. “I already told Christina I’m going to beat her and mess her up. I’m taking this fight 100 percent seriously. I’m going to go out there and dominate her.

“I don’t want these belts handed to me. I’m coming to win every round on April 13. I’m a different kind of animal and Christina is going to see that on fight night. I’m ready. That’s it.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are priced at $150, $100, $55 and $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster and at boardwalkhall.com.

Hard-Hitting Jeison Rosario Clashes with Mexico’s Jorge Cota In Middleweight Showdown on PBC FIGHT NIGHT

Hard-Hitting Jeison Rosario Clashes with Mexico’s Jorge Cota In Middleweight Showdown on PBC FIGHT NIGHT – EXTRA on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Saturday, April 20 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California

Also in Action! Veteran Brawler Alfredo Angulo, 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas & Sensational Lightweight Prospect Omar Juarez Competing in Separate Televised Bouts Beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT Following PBC on FOX Broadcast

CARSON, CALIF. (March 27, 2019) – Hard-hitting contender Jeison Rosario takes on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in a 10-round middleweight fight that headlines PBC FIGHT NIGHT – EXTRA on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 20 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

Battle-hardened veteran Alfredo “El Perro” Angulo will fight in the co-main event of the telecast, while exciting lightweight prospect and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas takes on Pedro Vicente in a six or eight round bout and highly-decorated lightweight prospect Omar Juarez clashes with Mexico’s Luis Gerardo Perez Salas in a four-round match to open the telecast at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

PBC FIGHT NIGHT – EXTRA will follow the PBC on FOX primetime show headlined by former two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia battling rugged veteran Adrian Granados in a 12-round welterweight bout.

Heavyweight contender Andy Ruiz takes on Alexander Dimitrenko in a 10-round bout in the co-feature and unbeaten contender Brandon Figueroa battles Venezuela’s Yonfrez Parejo in a 12-round match for the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title that opens the primetime FOX broadcast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The non-stop block of boxing promises wall-to-wall action for fans who tune into FOX, FOX Deportes and FS1.

Rosario (18-1-1, 13 KOs) was busy last year, scoring victories in three of four fights in 2018, including wins over then-unbeaten Jamontay Clark and contender Justin DeLoach. He is coming off a stoppage victory over Marcos Hernandez in February on FS1, which avenged a split draw the two boxers fought to in 2018. The 23-year-old from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic who now lives in Miami, Florida, will have his hands full against the hard-hitting Cota (28-2, 25 KOs). The 31-year-old Cota from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico has scored three straight knockout victories since losing to Erickson Lubin in 2017. He’s coming off a TKO victory over Euri Gonzalez in November

Balderas (7-0, 6 KOs) scored three stoppage victories in his fights last year and continues to progress up the lightweight ladder. The 23-year-old Balderas of Santa Maria, California, was a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic boxing team and most recently stopped Jose Cen Torres in February. Vicente (6-2, 2 KOs) is looking to build on the momentum from his unanimous decision victory over Luis Miguel Ortiz in his last fight in January.

The 19-year-old Juarez (2-0, 1 KOs), who is from Brownsville, Texas, will be climbing back into the ring quickly after scoring a knockout victory over Phillip Percy in February. Salas (5-2, 1 KOs) is looking to rebound from back-to-back losses when he steps in against Juarez.

In other non-televised action, Los Angeles bantamweight Daniel Guzman (2-1-1, 1 KO) takes on Monterrey, Mexico’s Hugo Rodriguez (0-3) in a four-round bout, unbeaten Alhambra, Cal., welterweight Emmanuel Medina (16-0, 9 KOs) battles Japan’s Gaku Takahashi (16-9-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round match and Colorado Springs’ Ricky Lopez (20-4, 6 KOs) faces Joe Perez (14-3-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round super featherweight bout. Round out the card is Fontana, California’s Raymond Murattala (6-0, 4 KOs) meeting Mexico’s Eduardo Reyes (9-15, 6 KOs) in a six-round lightweight bout and Edinburg, Texas’ Nelson Hampton (4-2, 4 KOs) fighting in a four-round lightweight special attraction.

Unbeaten Rising Prospect Chris Colbert Takes on Mexico’s Mario Briones, Plus Super Lightweight Jose Miguel Borrego Steps into the Ring

Unbeaten Rising Prospect Chris Colbert Takes on Mexico’s Mario Briones, Plus Super Lightweight Jose Miguel Borrego Steps into the Ring as Part of Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS2 & FOX Deportes Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis – 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Sensational Prospect Joey Spencer Competes in PBC on FS1 Main Card Beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT & Headlined by Super Middleweight Title Eliminator Between Former Champions Peter Quillin & Caleb Truax

MINNEAPOLIS (March 26, 2019) – Unbeaten rising prospect Chris Colbert will take on Mexico’s Mario Briones in a 10-round lightweight showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions Prelims on FS2 and FOX Deportes Saturday, April 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

Prelims begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see super lightweight Jose Miguel Borrego (14-2, 13 KOs) in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now, and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Sensational undefeated prospect Joey Spencer (6-0, 6 KOs) will step into the ring for a six-round super welterweight bout that will kick off the PBC on FS1 main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The event is headlined by former world champions Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin and Minnesota-native Caleb “Golden” Truax battling in a 12-round IBF super middleweight title eliminator, and also features top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko taking on Jack Culcay in a 12-round IBF title eliminator.

Non-televised action will see unbeaten Darwin Price (13-0, 6 KOs) facing Los Angeles-native Yakubu Amidu (21-9-2, 19 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight attraction, Minneapolis-native VeShawn Owens (9-2, 9 KOs) taking on Texas’ Alexis Gaytan (5-2, 2 KOs) for eight rounds of welterweight action and undefeated bantamweight Shawn Simpson (9-0, 3 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight showdown against Mexico’s Gilberto Mendoza (12-7-2, 4 KOs).

Rounding out the card is unbeaten St. Petersburg, Florida-native Mycheal Teal in a four-round middleweight contest against Antonio Louis Hernandez and undefeated Uriel Lara out of Coon, Rapids, Minnesota facing Jeremiah De Los Santos for four-rounds of welterweight action.

Representing his hometown of Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (10-0, 3 KOs) has begun to make a name for himself showing off tremendous skills across his first 10 pro victories. The 22-year-old most recently dominated Josh Hernandez on FS1 in January and he will return to fight at The Armory for the second time after defeating then unbeaten Austin Dulay on FS1 last April. 33-year-old Briones (29-8-2, 21 KOs) fights out of Aguascalientes, Mexico and most recently fought former champion Scott Quigg in October.

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