DEVIN “THE DREAM ” HANEY “I’M READY TO RULE THE SPORT”

DH                     Lightweight sensation ready for DAZN debut in Maryland on Saturday

LAS VEGAS, NV (May 21, 2019) – Devin Haney is ready to step-up his goal of dominating the sport as he prepares to face Antonio Moran in his DAZN debut in the US at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on Saturday May 25, also live on Sky Sports in the UK.

Haney (21-0 13 KOs) is straight into action at the top of the bill having penned a co-promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing USA – and the unbeaten Lightweight sensation is planning to put on a devastating display to underline his World title credentials.

‘The Dream’ will have his hands full against Moran (24-3 17 KOs) who was edged out by former World ruler Jose Pedraza in June and returned to winning ways in December with a second round KO in Mexico – but Haney will not let his journey be derailed before he’s hit the heights he believes his talent can take him.

“There’s nothing to stop me from getting to number one, it’s just time,” said Haney. “Timing is everything and my time is going to come. I am only 20 years old, the other Lightweights out there better catch me now because I am only going to get stronger and faster so the top guys need to fight me now.

“Boxing is something that I love so it doesn’t feel like a job to me, but the job is not done, I want to be a multi-weight champion and I want to rule the sport as a pound-for-pound star. When I am the face of boxing down the line, who knows what will happen, but right now those big goals are keeping me motivated.

“Getting the fights I want has been a challenge, a lot of guys have turned me down, saying there’s no point or not making enough money, so that’s been a real challenge. It’s me versus me, when I am in the gym I am so far ahead of a lot of guys that it’s me challenging myself, pushing myself, seeing how far I can go rather than seeing how far I can outrun another guy – how fast can I push myself?

“The landscape is very interesting right now. A World title is very important to me, over money and anything else, being World champion is the ultimate goal. To be a World ruler at 20 would be history, the youngest in the game. My ring IQ at my age is crazy, I’m able to adapt and adjust, I’ve been in there with so many great fighters like Floyd Mayweather, Shawn Porter, Amir Khan, and I’m able to adjust.

“When I first met Eddie and the Matchroom Boxing team it felt like the perfect fit. Me and my team spoke with Eddie about what we wanted and we were able to make it fit. Eddie recognizes me as a promoter, they are willing to work with me and build my brand and company at the same time.

“A lot of other promoters didn’t recognize me as a promoter, they just wanted to give me money and buy me out. Matchroom Boxing see me as a top fighter that they want to get behind, I would be important elsewhere, but Eddie made it clear that they are going to push me and get behind me.”

Haney’s clash with Moran is part of a huge night of action in Maryland where rising Heavyweight Croatian talent Filip Hrgovic taking on Gregory Corbin on his US debut, more Heavyweight interest as Michael Hunter tackles Gregory Corbin and WBA World Super-Lightweight champion Jessica McCaskill looks to unify the division against WBA champion Anahi Sanchez.

Tickets are priced at $40, $80, $150 and $250 (plus fees) and are on sale now at this link:https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/15005688E0B851B0

DEONTAY WILDER THRILLS BARCLAYS CENTER CROWD WITH SCINTILLATING FIRST ROUND KNOCKOUT OF DOMINIC BREAZEALE

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DEONTAY WILDER THRILLS BARCLAYS CENTER CROWD WITH SCINTILLATING FIRST ROUND KNOCKOUT OF DOMINIC BREAZEALE SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME® TO ENTER RARIFIED AIR OF HEAVYWEIGHT BOXING CHAMPIONS

Gary Russell Jr. Retains Featherweight Title with TKO Over Kiko Martinez

Juan Heraldez and Argenis Mendez Fight to Majority Draw In Telecast Opener
Live from Brooklyn

Watch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 P.M. ET/PT On
SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

BROOKLYN (May 19, 2019) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder delivered the 40th knockout of his career in devastating fashion Saturday night, sending mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale flat on his back with a trademark right hand in front of a raucous crowd at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Successfully defending his belt for the ninth time, Wilder joins illustrious company alongside Hall of Famers Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and more and becomes the 10th fighter in history to make nine or more consecutive successful heavyweight title defenses. Watch HERE: https://s.sho.com/2Hp0AEh

In the buildup to tonight’s world championship bout, Wilder (41-0-1, 40 KOs) repeatedly promised that the fight would not last long. The towering Tuscaloosa, Ala. native kept his word, scoring the 20th first round knockout of his career and his 15th knockdown as heavyweight world champion. Breazeale (20-2, 18 KOs) was able to withstand Wilder’s first early onslaught, but could not beat referee Harvey Dock’s 10-count when Wilder connected flush with the most dangerous right hand in boxing later in the opening round.

“Everything just came out of me tonight”, said Wilder. “I know it’s been a big buildup, there’s been a lot of animosity and a lot of words that were said and it just came out of me tonight. That’s what makes boxing so great.

“I just told Breazeale I love him and of course I want to see him go home to his family. I know we say some things, but when you can fight a man and then you can hug him and kiss him, I wish the world was like that. We shake hands and we live to see another day and that’s what it’s all about.”

As the attention of the heavyweight division turns to what’s next, Wilder insists that a fight with Tyson Fury, the only man he has faced and not defeated, or Anthony Joshua remains on the table and in the works.

“I understand what Fury did,” said Wilder. “When you get dropped on the canvas like that I understand you have to get yourself back together. But the rematch will happen, like all these other fights will happen. The great thing is all these fights rare in discussion. The big fights will happen. I just want you to have patience.”

Breazeale, whose only two defeats have now come against both Wilder and Joshua, was disappointed he wasn’t allowed to continue the fight.

 

 

“I think the ref stopped it a little early because I could hear him saying seven and eight, but that’s boxing,” said Breazeale. “He did his job and kept us safe for our next fight.

“I got on my feet and had my legs under me. It’s the heavyweight division so there’s going to big shots from guys with power. This was a situation where he landed the big right hand before I did. I thought I was going to come on in the later rounds. I’ll be back and go for the heavyweight title again.”

In the co-feature, WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. (30-1, 18 KOs) put on yet another professional display to defend his belt for the fourth time against a valiant Kiko Martinez (39-9-2, 28 KOs). Due to a gash that opened up over Martinez’s left eye, referee Ricky Gonzalez stopped the fight in the fifth round upon the advice of the ringside physician, resulting in a technical knockout.

Russell, who was fighting for the first time in a year, showed no signs of ring rust and displayed his full skillset including his trademark lightning quick hands. The 30-year-old Capitol Heights, Md. native was dominant from the opening bell and landed on a remarkable 40% of his power punches. In an all-action fight with little downtime, Martinez did more than enough to play his part. The Spaniard constantly came forward but Russell continued to target the cut that opened up over his eye after a right hook in the second round. The ringside official called for the stoppage of the fight at 2:52 of round number five.

“I did pretty good,” said the 2008 U.S. Olympian Russell to SHOWTIME ringside reporter Jim Gray. “We stayed behind the jab and he couldn’t get past it. We knew that intellect over athleticism would get it done.

 

“We want [WBA Featherweight Champion] Leo Santa Cruz,” Russell continued while wearing a shirt that read ‘Leo Next’. “We want to make this fight happen. The fire is all the way hot on this side of the field. You will get burned. I would love for that fight to happen this year. Let’s make it happen.”

“It was a good stoppage for a very tough fight,” said the former world champion Martinez. “I’m definitely a visual fighter so the cut made it tough. Gary was in great physical condition and it was a very hard fight.

“I’m going to rest a little bit now, but I’ll be back. I thought I had some good moments and had a good division. I think I’ll drop back down to 122-pounds to win a world title there.”

In the telecast opener, undefeated prospect Juan Heraldez (16-0-1, 10 KOs) and former world champion Argenis Mendez (25-5-2, 12 KOs) fought to a highly competitive majority draw. Two judges scored the fight 95-95, while a third had Mendez winning 97-93.

Fighting in front of his mentor Floyd Mayweather, Las Vegas’ Heraldez controlled many of the early rounds by setting the pace and establishing his jab. Heraldez outlanded Mendez 126-108 in total punches and 70-30 in jabs throughout the 10 rounds. Falling behind early, Mendez, a seasoned veteran and 2004 Dominican Republic Olympian, used his experience to grow back into the fight. The tempo picked up in the fifth round, as both fighters landed several heavy blows but the momentum shifted towards Mendez. The 32-year-old Mendez, who has fought seven current or former champions, closed out the fight exceptionally strong, winning the final round on all three judges’ scorecards. Without doing so, Mendez would have lost the fight.

“I thought I won the fight,” said a disappointed Mendez. “He didn’t do anything to me. How did he win the fight? If I have to prove I beat him in a rematch, I’ll be ready. I won’t leave it up to the judges.

 

 

“My speed and my power made it difficult for him. I thought my counterpunching was really good. He tired toward the later rounds and that let me get a little closer to him to get my offense going.”

Similarly, Heraldez thought he did enough to win the fight which he viewed as a potential coming out party.

“I thought I won a close decision,” Heraldez said. “I didn’t think it was a draw. He didn’t do anything that hurt me at any point.

“He wasn’t really engaging with me. He was just trying to move around and pick his shots, but it wasn’t anything I wasn’t ready for. I’ll either take the rematch with Mendez or move forward toward my goal of a world title.”

Preceding the telecast, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN featured three undercard attractions streamed live on the SHOWTIME Sports social platforms. A battle between heavyweights Robert Alfonso (18-0-1, 8 KOs) and Iago Kiladze (26-4-1, 18 KOs) ended in a split-draw after eight rounds of action. While one judge scored the fight 77-75 for Alfonso, another had it 77-75 for Kiladze, with the third judge scoring it 76-76, resulting in the draw.

Also entering the ring was 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (9-0, 9 KOs), the younger brother of the featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr., who dropped Marcos Mojica (16-4-2, 12 KOs) twice to earn a stoppage 2:13 into the third round. Rounding out the action was Brooklyn-native and 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins (9-0, 5 KOs), who scored a TKO of Alejandro Munera (4-2-3, 4 KOs) after Munera was knocked down in round three and unable to continue despite making it to the final bell of the round.

DEONTAY WILDER VS. DOMINIC BREAZEALE OFFICIAL WEIGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

Wilder Breazele Bout Sheet

 

Photo Credits- Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

DEONTAY WILDER VS. DOMINIC BREAZEALE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

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DEONTAY WILDER VS. DOMINIC BREAZEALE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

“The closest Breazeale is going to get to this belt, is in his dreams,” Wilder

“I’m going to beat Deontay so bad that he’s not going to ever want to lace up the gloves again,” Breazeale

Wilder vs. Breazeale Heavyweight World Championship Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Tripleheader This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

All Photo credits- Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

BROOKLYN (May 16, 2019) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale continued their war of words and further escalated their longstanding feud at the final press conference Thursday ahead of their showdown this Saturday live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Also featured at the final press conference were WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. and former world champion Kiko Martinez, who meet in a 12-round bout for Russell’s world title, and unbeaten Juan Heraldez and former world champion Argenis Mendez, who compete in a 10-round super lightweight fight. Those two bouts will be part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME, while three undercard fights will stream live on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN.

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.comand barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

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

DEONTAY WILDER

“These fighters always get into great shape and think they have the game plan to beat me. They think they’re going to catch me. It’s not going to work. Nothing this guy has prepared for is going to work.

“I hope he brings the best he can bring. This is more than just a boxing match. I’m passionate about what I do. This has been a long time coming for me and Dominic. He asked for this, and he shall receive.

 

“It’s going to be an amazing night for me, and a sad night for him. Being heavyweight champion is a big responsibility. Not everyone is made to be a champion. It’s more than being glamorous or carrying around this prestigious belt.

“I’ve trained harder than I’ve ever trained. He’s got me inspired like I was against Bermane Stiverne. I want to hurt Breazeale so bad. I’m going to keep my composure until that time comes Saturday night.

“I don’t believe Breazeale when he speaks. I’ve been in this game for a very long time. Someone like him is not going to beat me. The closest he’s going to get to this belt is in his dreams.

“My whole team has been with me since day one. We started together and we’re going to go all the way together. It’s been an amazing run for me. I started my career at the very bottom and worked all the way to this point.

“We never rushed anything. Even in the Olympics, I was still learning on the job. We trained to be a long term champion, not a short term champion, and we accomplished that. I’m appreciative for how far I’ve come and for everything that’s come with it. Hard work pays off.

“My actions are going to speak louder than my words. I am the best. I am the chosen one. He can say what he wants. It’s going to be a great fight for as long as it lasts. I’m going to bring the pain. Saturday night, everyone is in for a treat.”

DOMINIC BREAZEALE

“I’m super excited for this fight. Virgil Hunter and myself had a great camp. It was truly one of the best of my life. I’m mentally focused and physically right.

“I’m excited to be back and get another knockout win. Getting that WBC belt is everything to me. This is my Super Bowl.

“Victory for me on Saturday is everything. Wilder doesn’t know what he’s getting himself into. He’s in for a fight. He better be confident in his abilities, because Saturday night, he’s going to be in the toughest fight of his life.

“I’m going to beat Deontay so bad that he’s not going to ever want to lace up the gloves again. Sports are 80% mental. When I’m done with him, the mental aspect is going to be beat out of him.

 

“I’m going to put on another explosive performance. I’ve been dreaming for the last year about hearing ‘and the new.’ It’s a beautiful thing and I can’t wait to make it come true and have my hand raised.

“Wilder hasn’t developed at all during his career. He looks the same as he did in the amateurs. He needs to talk himself up to make himself feel confident.

“I’m too mentally in-tune to be focused on what someone says. When I go into a fight I don’t worry about what my opponent can do, but about what I want to do and how I can execute.

“None of Deontay’s words affect me at all. He’s going to keep barking and I’m just going to keep waiting. I’m going to quiet him down on Saturday night.”

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“I’m hungry and ready. Anyone that I step in the ring with is standing in the way of my goals. Anyone trying to stop me, is in a dangerous position.

“We’re going to try to control the pace of the fight with my jab. I don’t think he’s going to get past the jab. He’s going to try to get rough and physical. My plan is to make the adjustments that I need to get this win.

“It’s always a family affair with the Russells. We move as a unit and we excel as a unit. My family is where I pull all my energy from. It’s never a distraction. They give me the fuel I need.

 

“In boxing you need to have full trust and belief in your coach. I couldn’t imagine a better fit than having my dad. Even if he gives instructions that might not be 100% right in my eyes, I know that it’s going to be the best thing for me.

“No one in this division wants to step in the ring with me. They know the speed and power and abilities that I bring every time I step into the ring.

“Deontay and I were on the same Olympic team, plus Dominic and my little brother Gary Antuanne Russell were also U.S. Olympians. It makes for an amazing card on Saturday night.”

KIKO MARTINEZ

“I come to fight and get that title. I had a very smooth training camp and feel 100 percent physically.

“I think my experience is superior. He thinks I’m only a pressure fighter, but he hasn’t seen me box the way I’m going to box him on Saturday.

 

“This is the biggest opportunity of my life. To be on this platform and be able to fight for the championship is very special. I’m going to make the most of it.

“I hope that Russell doesn’t take me lightly because I still have a lot of abilities left. It’s going to be a great fight for as long as it lasts.”

JUAN HERALDEZ

“Camp went great and I can’t wait to put on a show. I’m going to let everyone in this division know that I’m coming for them. I’m going to seize the moment and take full advantage of it.

“I feel strong and I’m ready to fight. I’m just counting down the minutes until I can step into the ring. It’s a lot of excitement and I’m going to let it all out Saturday.

“I plan to win in spectacular fashion on Saturday. I’m going to show everyone that I’m a player at 140-pounds and I’m ready for anyone they can put in front of me.

“I’m not planning to get hit. I’m going to out box him and stick and move. He’s not going to be able to touch me. If the opportunity for a knockout comes, I’ll take it.”

 

ARGENIS MENDEZ

“I’m very excited for this opportunity. I had a great training camp and on Saturday night you’re going to see a show at Barclays Center.

“I love boxing and I love this opportunity that I have on Saturday night. I’m going to show my passion for the sport during this fight. I feel great physically and just cannot wait to get into the ring.

“A win on Saturday night opens the door for me. People are going to start seeing me as one of the best fighters from the Dominican Republic.

“It’s going to be a good fight. I have the speed and skills to out box him. We’re both very smart fighters. I believe I’m the better fighter and it will show on Saturday night.”

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

“The heavyweight division is exciting again and a lot of that has to do with Deontay Wilder. It’s also been helped by SHOWTIME and our commitment to the division. No other network has been more committed or invested more in the heavyweights than SHOWTIME has and we’re proud of that.

“We’re also proud that several of the fighters on this card have fought frequently on SHOWTIME. Deontay will make his 12th appearance and Gary will make his 11th. Wilder, Russell and Dominic all launched their careers on ShoBox, like so many other great fighters.

Wilder Breazele Final Press Conf. Amanda Westcott SHOWTIME Russel Jr. Kiko Martinez1
“When you get two guys together for a long-awaited grudge match, there’s not a lot that needs to be said. Deontay is the longest-reigning heavyweight champion in the sport. This would be the ninth defense for him, which is something that only nine other heavyweights have done in boxing history.

“Deontay had two of the most exciting heavyweight fights in recent history last year. As for Dominic, he’s a big strong experienced guy who’s been on the world stage before. He has fought for a world title and he’s coming off of three consecutive wins. He has plenty of power and we saw that in his last fight against Carlos Negron that he can change the fight in one punch.”

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of BSE Global

“The heavyweight division has been the talk of the sports world for months, and it’s fitting that the world champion will defend his title right here in Brooklyn in one of the biggest fights in the sport this year.

“Deontay, I’ve said for a long time that this is your home away from home and we can’t wait to have you back. You have a big opponent this week in Dominic Breazeale. Dominic you’ve already made two appearances in our ring and we know the fans are looking forward to another great show.”

PHOTOS: HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER RINGS THE CLOSING BELL AT THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE

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PHOTOS: HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER RINGS THE CLOSING BELL AT THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE

Wilder Breaks The Gavel In Closing Ceremony Three Days Before WBC Title Defense This Saturday Live On SHOWTIME® From Barclays Center In Brooklyn

 

Wilder Vs Breazeale…Wilder - NYSE Credit Amanda Westcott Showtime 8

                                                                  Photo Credit: NYSE

NEW YORK – May 15, 2019 – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder rang The Closing Bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Wednesday just three days before he defends his title against mandatory challenger Dominic Breazeale this Saturday on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn. VIDEO: https://twitter.com/NYSE/status/1128751798993412096

Wilder’s debut on Wall Street was as resounding as his performances in the ring. The American champion with a 95 percent knockout ratio broke the gavel during Wednesday’s ceremony to signal the end of the trading session on the NYSE. After a supportive cheer from traders on the floor, Wilder was assured that breaking the wooden gavel is considered a sign of good luck.

“This was a great experience ringing The Closing Bell and bringing the gavel down to close The New York Stock Exchange,” Wilder said. “It’s not every day you get to do that. It’s not every day that someone breaks the gavel at The Closing Bell. But I’m the heavyweight champion of the world and when I hit something it breaks. So that gavel was just like my opponents. Once I hit them right, they break and they’re never the same.”

Also in attendance at Wednesday’s ceremony was Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks, Chris Taylor, Vice President, NYSE Listings and Services, and Keith Sheldon, Executive Vice President, Programming and Development, BSE Global.

 

In the main event of Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader, Wilder will make the ninth defense of his title in a matchup of 6-foot-7 heavyweights with a combined 90 percent knockout ratio. America’s only heavyweight champion, Wilder seeks to join elite company alongside Hall of Famers Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and more as just the 10th fighter in history to make nine or more consecutive successful heavyweight title defenses.

In the co-featured bout, WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. defends his title against former world champion Kiko Martínez and unbeaten super lightweight contender Juan Heráldez faces former world champion Argenis Méndez in a 10-round attraction that opens the telecast.

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

DOMINIC BREAZEALE, GARY RUSSELL JR. & MORE FIGHT WEEK MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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DOMINIC BREAZEALE, GARY RUSSELL JR. & MORE FIGHT WEEK MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Wilder vs. Breazeale Heavyweight Championship Showdown Headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Tripleheader This Saturday Night Live on SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions. 

                                          Photo Credits-Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

BROOKLYN (May 15, 2019) – Fighters competing in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING action headlined by the Deontay Wilder vs. Dominic Breazeale heavyweight world title showdown this Saturday night showed off their skills at a media workout Wednesday prior to stepping into the ring at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Top rated heavyweight contender Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale and WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. were among the fighters taking part in the workout at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn. Also at Wednesday’s event and competing in action live on SHOWTIME beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT were former world champion Kiko Martinez, who challenges Russell for his title, and super lightweight contender Juan Heraldez, who faces Argenis Mendez in a 10-round attraction.

Rounding out the participants Wednesday was unbeaten prospect and Brooklyn-native Richardson Hitchins, who meets Colombia’s Alejandro Munero in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN action beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT, in a presentation that will stream live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP. The Heraldez vs. Mendez fight is co-promoted with Mayweather Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

DOMINIC BREAZEALE

“You’re going to see a different Dominic Breazeale for this fight. I’m something that the heavyweight division needs and you all are going to be surprised on Saturday night.

“Come Saturday night, it’s man versus man. You have to do what you’ve been saying you’re going to do. His talking won’t help him then.

“There’s no way this fight goes the distance. I know for sure it’s going to be fireworks from the opening bell and there’s going to be a fantastic finish.

“Losing to Anthony Joshua in 2016 was a huge stepping stone for my career. I learned so much about what I had been doing wrong. I didn’t do enough to get the win that night. I analyzed punch after punch and learned more from that loss than any win I had.

“I don’t give Deontay much credit for his title defenses. People talk about his big right hand, but this is heavyweight boxing. I have a big right hand too. I’ve put many individuals down on the canvas. All Wilder does is talk. We’ll see who lands that right hand first on Saturday.

“I’ve been training like a caged-dog during camp and it’s nice to be here now and see people’s reactions to the work I put in. I’m confident in what I can do and what I bring to the table on Saturday night. It’s going to be fun.”

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“My opponent knows who he’s getting in the ring with. Anybody who has an extended amount of time to prepare for no one else but you, is a dangerous opponent. We don’t underestimate anybody, but I don’t think his best is going to be good enough.

“Martinez has no other way to fight than to come forward. We’ll control him with our jab and he won’t be able to get past it. I don’t see this fight going the distance.

“When it comes to game plans, you have to have the ability to be versatile. You have to be able to make adjustments. Having one game plan doesn’t necessarily work.

“It’s always about getting your hand raised, regardless of the situation. My dad said a long time ago, ‘if you’re better than somebody, be better than them.’ I’m not going to fight down to my competition. If he’s good enough to stay in there for the whole fight, then he’ll get beat up for 12 rounds.

“I know he’s a strong puncher, but I never watch too much footage of my opponents. Maybe a round or so. I prepare myself to the best of my abilities, regardless of the opponent.

“The ultimate goal is to focus on getting the win. I don’t worry about how big the stage is because that’s only going to take away from your performance.”

KIKO MARTINEZ

“I’m very happy to have this fight here in New York. I’m very thankful to everyone who got me in this position. I’m going to make the most of it.

“I’ve been training for the last few months for this fight and I’ve prepared well for Gary Russell Jr. There are no excuses for this fight.

“I feel like I’m better than Gary Russell Jr. I think that I have everything in me to beat him and become world champion again.

“I think that Russell is the best featherweight in the world. After Saturday, that’s going to be my spot in the division.

“My experience will be very important in this fight. All of my fights have prepared me for this one and have given me what I need to accomplish my goals on Saturday.”

JUAN HERALDEZ

“We’re going to show a lot of smart boxing, power and defense. I’m going to be too much for Mendez. I don’t think it’s going the distance.

“I know I’m facing a former world champion who’s moved up to 140. I’ve been at this weight my whole career though. I’m the new dog on the block and I have to make my presence known.

“I’ve been making this weight for 15 years and still growing stronger and stronger. Floyd Mayweather and Mayweather Promotions have given me the opportunity to get to this point to eventually realize my dream and become a world champion. I have to seize the opportunity.

“I’ve gotten a lot of great work this training camp at the Mayweather Boxing Club. My coach Otis Pimpleton has elevated my training and every part of my game.

“I just want to win on Saturday and the sky is the limit for where I can go. I know my career is in good hands and I just need to do my part.”

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

“I’m ready to go in there and do what I do. It’s another day in the gym and another chance to show off my skills. I’m more than just a prospect. I feel like I can compete with anyone and it’s up to me to prove it.

“I’m going to keep taking these guys out until the competition steps up. I’m going to take care of everyone they put in front of me. I know my opponent Saturday is going to come to fight. I’m going to have the smarts to win the fight.

“I had camp in Las Vegas and got a lot of rounds in with great fighters like Heraldez and Devin Haney. I’m just ready to keep showing everyone more in each fight.

“I never look for the knockout. If it comes, it comes. I don’t think he’s going to be able to take the heat I bring. My goal is to show that I’m ready to step it up to a much higher level of competition.”

DEONTAY WILDER MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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DEONTAY WILDER MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Unbeaten WBC Heavyweight World Champion Wilder Defends Title Against Mandatory Challenger Dominic Breazeale This Saturday Night Live on SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

BROOKLYN (May 14, 2019) – Unbeaten WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder kicked off fight week Tuesday night with a media workout at world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn before he defends his title this Saturday night against mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Wilder will look to defend his title for the ninth time in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. It will be Wilder’s fourth time defending his belt at Barclays Center, having scored knockouts in his three previous fights in Brooklyn.

Tickets for this BombZquad event can be purchased at ticketmaster.comand barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what Wilder had to say Tuesday in Brooklyn:

DEONTAY WILDER

“Dominic Breazeale is going to get knocked out in dramatic fashion on Saturday. I can’t wait. He’s like a fly in my ear. I’m going to get him out of there in a fashion no one has ever seen.

“I love coming to Brooklyn. The people here have adopted me. I’ve had some of my most dramatic knockouts here at Barclays Center. I’m looking forward to adding another one to my resume Saturday night.

“Dominic Breazeale asked for this. I didn’t seek him out. He came for me. This isn’t a gentleman’s sport. We have bad blood and it’ll be in the ring Saturday night.

“I learned from the Tyson Fury fight to stay patient. It was my moment and my time. I wanted to put on a great show and deliver the knockout. I rushed but Fury had to be perfect for 12 rounds, I just had to be perfect for two seconds.

“I’m a person who’s passionate about what I say and passionate about what I do. I’m the realest champion in the business. I show love everywhere I go. Love is the key to the world.”

 

Photo Credits- Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Premier Boxing Champions Announce Launch of The PBC Podcast

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                   Premier Boxing Champions Announce Launch of The PBC Podcast

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                                Deontay Wilder is Featured Guest on This Week’s Episode

Premier Boxing Champions is excited to announce the launch of The PBC Podcast, a weekly boxing show featuring timely analysis and interviews with the sport’s biggest figures.

The PBC Podcast is published every Tuesday on iTunes, Spotify, Soundcloud, Stitcher, Spreaker and other outlets. Alternatively, listeners can visit the PBC website at http://www.premierboxingchampions.com/podcast and press play on the episode you would like to listen to.

Joining hosts Kenneth Bouhairie and Michael Rosenthal for this week’s episode, which is available now, was WBC Heavyweight World Champion, Deontay Wilder (40-0-1, 39 KOs). “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder puts his title on the line for the ninth time when he steps into the ring against hard-hitting mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (20-1, 18 KOs) this Saturday, May 18, live on SHOWTIME (9:00p.m. ET/6:00p.m. PT) and presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Regarding Saturday’s showdown versus Breazeale, Wilder said, “He picked the wrong time to mess with me. I cannot wait to showcase my talent to the thousands in attendance and the millions that’ll be watching. This is going to be an amazing card and an amazing show.”

Wilder also touched on his new training regimen, an increase in weight and what his catchphrase, “Till This Day,” truly means.

Other highlights from this week’s episode include:
• Analysis and predictions for Wilder vs. Breazeale
• A look back at Julian Williams’ upset victory over Jarrett Hurd
• Our hot take on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Keith Thurman July 20 PBC on FOX Sports PPV
• Answers to questions from listeners … and more!
Subscribe now to The PBC Podcast for a weekly dose of boxing news from around the world, with a focus on PBC, including analysis of upcoming cards and interviews with PBC boxers.

Kenneth Bouhairie is the Editorial Director at Premier Boxing Champions. Prior to joining PBC, Kenneth covered boxing for Sporting News. He was an award-winning, long-time writer for the British-based Boxing News magazine, where his work was recognized by the BWAA, of which he is a voting member. Kenneth is also the founder of BoxingAfrica.com, a website devoted to boxing news on the continent of Africa.

Michael Rosenthal is a Los Angeles-based boxing writer and former Editor-in-Chief of The Ring Magazine. He covered the sport for the Los Angeles Daily News and San Diego Union-Tribune before moving on to The Ring, where he worked from 2008 to 2017. He also was the 2018 winner of the BWAA’s Nat Fleischer Award for excellence in boxing journalism.

For more information: visit http://www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.

Unbeaten Heavyweight Onoriode Ehwarieme Set to Battle Rodney Hernandez in Premier Boxing Champions on FS1

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Unbeaten Heavyweight Onoriode Ehwarieme Set to Battle Rodney Hernandez in Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Action Saturday, June 1 from Soboba Casino Resort in San Jacinto, California – Live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Unbeaten Contender Jhack Tepora Takes on Jose Luis Gallegos & Former World Champion Marlon Tapales Squares Off Against Roberto Castaneda in PBC Prelims on FS2 & FOX Deportes at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT

SAN JACINTO, CA. (May 14, 2019) – Unbeaten heavyweight Onoriode Ehwarieme will now face Rodney Hernandez in an eight-round attraction as part of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Saturday, June 1 from Soboba Casino Resort in San Jacinto, California.

The telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by former two-division world champion Devon Alexander “The Great” taking on exciting Ivan “El Terrible” Redkach in a 10-round battle.

PBC Prelims on FS2 and FOX Deportes begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated featherweight contender Jhack Tepora in a 10-round showdown against Jose Luis Gallegos. Plus, former world champion Marlon Tapales squares off against Roberto Castaneda in a 10-round super bantamweight fight. With Tepora and Tapales, the Prelims telecast will see two rising contenders from the Philippines. Tepora ia closing in on a world title opportunity, while Tapales is seeking a title in a second division.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Soboba Box and Soboba.com.

Representing his home of Sapele, Nigeria, Ehwarieme (17-0, 16 KOs) was a 2008 Olympian who is unbeaten since turning pro in 2010. The 31-year-old has a 16-fight knockout streak heading into his U.S. debut, as he continues to seek a path to becoming the first Nigerian heavyweight champion since Samuel Peter. He will be opposed by San Jose, California’s Hernandez (12-7-2, 3 KOs), who defeated Nick Jones and then unbeaten LaRon Mitchell in 2018. The 30-year-old has battled heavyweight standouts Adam Kownacki, Michael Hunter and Efe Ajagba in a career dating back to 2011.

The 24-year-old Tepora (22-0, 17 KOs) most recently stopped Edivaldo Ortega in the ninth-round last July as he continued his climb up the featherweight ranks. Fighting out of Cebu City, Philippines, he is unbeaten since turning pro in 2012 and will make his U.S. debut on June 1. He takes on the 24-year-old Gallegos (16-6, 12 KOs), who was born in Chicago but now lives in Bakersfield, California. Gallegos had an 11-fight winning streak until losses in his last two bouts.

Representing Tubod, Lanao del Norte, Philippines, Tapales (32-2, 15 KOs) captured a bantamweight world title by knocking out Panya Uthok in the 11th round of a back and forth championship bout. The 27-year-old has since moved up in weight and most recently stopped Fernando Vargas Parra in his U.S. debut in February. He will face Castaneda (23-11-2, 16 KOs), who hails from Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. The 27-year-old Castaneda is coming off a majority draw against Tyler McCreary in his last fight in March.

In non-televised action a pair of unbeaten prospects in Santa Maria, California’s Jose Balderas and Julio Garcia of Madison, Wisconsin square off in a bantamweight bout. Anthony Chavez of Redlands, California takes on Milwaukee’s Mike Fowler in a four-round super featherweight fight. Justin Cardona of Salinas, California meets Liberia’s Archie Weah in a four-round super lightweight bout. Undefeated Mexican featherweight Francisco Ochoa battles Phoenix, Arizona’s Jesus Aguinaga in an eight-round bout. Unbeaten Filipino featherweight John Leo Dato appears in a six-round bout and Garden City, California’s Jose Perez clashes with Los Angeles-native Mario Ayala in an eight-round featherweight bout.

Also in action, unbeaten Ukrainian super featherweight Viktor Slavinskyi meets Mexico’s Ernest Guerrero. Santa Maria, California’s Aaron Morales clashes with Mexico’s Robert Pucheta in a six-round bantamweight bout. San Antonio, Texas’ Robert Rodriguez battles Jose Rodriguez of Markesan, Wisconsin in a four-round bantamweight bout and Denver’s Shon Mondragon takes on Mexico’s Jose Fabian Naranjo in a six-round super bantamweight bout.

Salita Promotions Sign Russian Super Middleweight Dynamo Vladimir Shishkin to a Promotional Contract

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Salita Promotions Sign Russian Super Middleweight Dynamo Vladimir Shishkin to a Promotional Contract

Promoter Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of highly rated super middleweight contender Vladimir Shishkin.

Shishkin, from Serpukhov, Russia, is just 8-0, 5 KOs, but is already rated WBA #15, WBC #11 and IBF #11 and is the current WBA Continental Super Middleweight Champion. The 27-year-old won the title with a KO 5 over Gasan Gasanov last July and then defended it against former world title challenger and world-rated contender Nadjib Mohammedi via TKO 10 in October of last year. He also won the WBA Asia Super Middleweight Title last May with a TKO 7 over solid Belarussian veteran Sergey Khomitskiy.

As an amateur, Shishkin is a former national junior champion. Big for the weight class, Shishkin stands 6′ 1″ and is extremely strong. He boxes with power behind a world-class jab and has excellent defense.

Signing with Salita, says Shishkin, is a chance to bring his name and talents to North America.

“I am happy to sign with Salita Promotions as I know it will lead to new exciting opportunities for my career,” he said. “I feel that I am the best super middleweight in the world and will continue to prove that fact by climbing up the ladder to the world title.”

Salita, who has quickly become boxing’s top cultivator of Soviet iron men, says audiences not yet familiar with his new fighter are going to love what they see.

“I am excited to work with one of the best contenders in the super middleweight division in Vladimir Shishkin. In only eight fights, he has already beaten some impressive names in the division, and he is just getting started. Vladimir’s exciting style, size and desire to be the best will very quickly make him a fan favorite. In due time, he is going to be world champion.”

Salita says Shishkin will make his US Debut in summer.