Standing-8

‘LIGHTNING’ LEE SELBY RETURNS TO ACTION AT THE O2

Welsh star’s highly awaited comeback on DeGale v Eubank Jr, live on
ITV Box Office

An audacious 2019 plan to become Wales’ first ever two-weight World Champion

London (14 January 2019) Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby will make his big return to the ring on Saturday 23rd February at The O2, London, on the blockbuster James DeGale-Chris Eubank Jr. show, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

Selby kicks off 2019 with new and fresh ambitions as he makes a daring move up two weight classes to campaign in the talent-packed Lightweight division and has targeted a second world title belt before the end of the year.

The Welsh star will face hard-hitting American Omar Douglas with a championship title on the line to be confirmed shortly that will support the mouth-watering showdown between bitter rivals DeGale and Eubank Jr in the UK debut event for Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) promoted by Poxon Sports.

The 31-year-old can’t wait to return to The O2 and he see’s it as his lucky omen where he is unbeaten in the five fights he’s had there, including his sensational win over Evgeny Gradovich to win the IBF World title in May 2015.

This will be Selby’s first fight since a shock loss of his title to Josh Warrington last May that he put down to trouble making the 126 pound weight limit and realising that he should have made the move up in weight a lot sooner.

A loss has certainly not dented Selby’s confidence and the time away has made him reflect and refocus on his career and he is now relishing the challenges of fighting in a division that holds some of the elite names in world boxing and being crowned a two-time World Champion.

Making history is very much in Selby’s sights as he aims to become Wales’ first ever recognised two-weight World Champion. The Barry man is looking to carve his name alongside those of other Welsh sporting legends like Joe Calzaghe, JPR Williams, Gareth Bale and Geraint Thomas as he moves in to the next phase of his already glittering career.

Selby said, “I’m looking forward to the challenge of becoming a two weight world champion. The move up in weight was long overdue so that’s why we’ve chosen to jump up two weight classes to the Lightweight division,”

“There are so many fights to look forward to with big domestic fights like Campbell, Crolla and Burns along with some of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world like Vasyl Lomachenko and Mikey García,”

“The Featherweight division was one of the toughest weight classes and I reached the top as IBF world champion. It’s the same mission now at Lightweight and I can’t wait to get back to business on February 23. The O2 London has been a special venue for me where I won my world title so it’s great to be back there on a massive night for British boxing.”

Douglas, from Wilmington, Delaware, had a decorated amateur career, winning five state Golden Gloves titles and is under the PBC banner. The 27-year-old comes in with a top record of 13 knockouts in 19 wins from 21 fights, with two highly controversial points losses, and is a former NABA Super-Featherweight Champion.

He said, “I am very grateful for this opportunity to come to London and fight on the show and the UK fans get to see me in action. Lee Selby is a solid fighter, but I know in my heart that I’m an undefeated fighter and that will make me very dangerous and I will show it on February 23. I will show I’m a major player at junior lightweight. Although this fight is at 135 pounds I want the world to see that I’m one of the top guys at 130 and put the champions on notice.”

Promoter Richard Poxon of Poxon Sports is thrilled to welcome a fighter of Selby’s calibre to the action-packed card and expects him to shine at lightweight.

Poxon said, “I always felt Lee would be a dominant champion at Featherweight and would have fancied him against anyone. I was as surprised as anyone when he lost to Josh Warrington, but it was no secret Lee had had his problems making weight,”

“I’m really looking forward to watching Lee in this fight. To jump up two weights is some leap and it will be very interesting to see how he fits in the Lightweight division,”

“Douglas isn’t a joke for anyone and has only lost to the ‘top tier’ boxers. Edner Cherry is a proven operator and Fortuna is top drawer. He’ll be coming to win, that’s for sure,”

“If Lee carries the weight well, then I’d expect him to be a serious threat to any of the champions at 135lbs. There are some great domestic fights out there for him as well as on the international stage.”

Tickets available from http://www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from http://www.sportandmusic.co.uk.

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to http://www.itvboxoffice.com

JOSE UZCATEGUI vs. CALEB PLANT FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

JOSE UZCATEGUI vs. CALEB PLANT FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS
Photo Credits- Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions

Super Middleweight World Champion Uzcategui Takes on Undefeated Plant Sunday, January 13 in Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Main Event from Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (January 11, 2019) – Just two days before their long-anticipated clash, IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui and unbeaten top contender Caleb Plant went face-to-face at the final press conference before they headline Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes action Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Also in attendance Friday and competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa and former title challenger Moises Flores, who meet in a 12-round super bantamweight clash, and sensational prospect Joey Spencer, who enters the ring against Brandon Harder in a four-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

The night of fights will also include PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT and featuring the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Friday from the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in Los Angeles:

JOSE UZCATEGUI

“I’m looking forward to this fight a lot and I’m really excited for Sunday. I can’t wait to show off my talent against a great fighter like Caleb Plant. You can say whatever you want outside of the ring, but we still have to get inside of the ring, and that’s when I do my best talking.

“My motivation is my family. I get up every morning to train and I’m away from my family, which is difficult. But on Sunday I can show that all the hard work paid off and I am the best.

“This is a big fight for me to continue to prove that I’m the best super middleweight in the world. I want all the other champions, but I know that I have a tough fighter to get through first. Caleb Plant will be a good test on my way to what I want to accomplish.

“I’m going to give a great fight for all of my fans in Mexico and the U.S. and everyone watching. They’re going to have a great show on Sunday night.”

CALEB PLANT

“For those who know me and know my story, they know I’ve been through things that break people. I’ve taken many defeats throughout my life, but never once have I been defeated. I always come out the other side. Sunday, January 13, I’m going to come out the other side with that belt.

“Everyone considers Uzcategui the bogeyman of the division, but I’m ready for him. I hope he’s ready. I’m going to take his belt and his spot in the division.

“This is a lifelong dream of mine. Fighting for the world title means everything, but it’s also just the first step. We’ve been in the studio cooking up something hot and the drop date is January 13.

“I think with our styles, this has the makings of a great, memorable fight. Everyone knows I have the skills and speed to hear ‘and the new’ on Sunday night.

“We were supposed to fight in August. I broke my hand in July and we had to move it back, but this fight has been set since June. Even when he fought in September and he said he had a down performance because he was ‘trying to trick’ someone into fighting him, I was waiting for this fight and I hope he’s not taking me as an easy task. Because he has another thing coming.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“This is going to be a tough fight. Moises Flores only has one loss and I know he’s training hard to bounce back. But I’m going to be ready for anything he brings.

“I’m 110 percent focused and ready for this moment. I’m back and ready to work this Sunday. I hope everyone comes out and supports all the hard work these fighters have put in for this show.

“Flores comes prepared. He’s been fighting tough contenders, but I’ve seen the fights he’s had and I don’t think people have really hit him to the body. My game plan is to break him down and try to catch him and knock him out if I can.

“My father has been the backbone of my career and him, along with the rest of my family and supporters in Mexico and all over the world, have helped me get to this moment. I’m close to reaching my goal and I know that means I have to win this fight on Sunday.”

MOISES FLORES

“I know that I’m facing a tough undefeated opponent, but I’ve fought the tougher competition and experienced more difficult fights. That’s going to help me in the ring on Sunday.

“I was derailed in my last fight, but I’ve made the proper corrections and I’m back and ready now. I’m 100 percent now and I’m going to show everyone who Moises Flores is.

“I’d like to thank my team, my family and even my dog and my cat. I’m happy to be back in the ring so I can show everyone what I have in me.”

JOEY SPENCER

“I’m thankful to everyone for coming out and supporting this event. I couldn’t be happier with how my career is going at this point. I’m looking forward to putting on a show on Sunday and turning everyone who hasn’t seen me into a believer.

“This year I’m looking to have even more of a breakout year than last year. I really want to get ready to enter that contender space and get ready to start looking at some titles.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a lot of good shows this year and performing for the fans. I’m excited to get it all started on Sunday night on FS1.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is going to be a sensational show on Sunday night at the Microsoft Theater. PBC and FOX Sports got off to a great start last month in Brooklyn kicking off the new PBC on FOX series and we’re excited to be here to launch the first FS1 show on Sunday night.

“PBC has made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and biggest fights to Southern California. It started off in December with the Wilder vs. Fury fight, continues on Sunday with this great fight and continues in February with Gervonta Davis vs. Abner Mares and Leo Santa Cruz vs. Miguel Flores cards.

“We believe that downtown Los Angeles can be a major hub for the sport of boxing. Come out and support this show on Sunday and get started on a terrific year.”

Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner Media Conference Call Transcript & Audio Recording

Click HERE for Audio Recording

Kelly Swanson
Thanks everyone for calling in for the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner media conference call for their fight on January 19 live on SHOWTIME PPV® from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

I’m more than happy to introduce Leonard Ellerbe, Chief Executive Officer of Mayweather Promotions to begin our call. Leonard?

Leonard Ellerbe
Thank you Kelly. I would like to thank everyone for joining the call today. We’re nine days away from what I consider to be the biggest fight of 2019. These fighters are fresh off of two outstanding media day workouts yesterday in California. Both guys seem very focused. They are both in great shape.

We have an unbelievable fight coming next Saturday night. We’re really looking forward to it.

K. Swanson
At this time, I would like to introduce Stephen Espinoza, President of Sports and Event Programming for Showtime Networks Inc. Stephen?

Stephen Espinoza
Thanks Kelly and thanks Leonard. Look, all of you guys are very well-acquainted with Manny and Adrien, you’ve covered them for years. They’re two of the biggest names in the sport so I don’t need to tell you anything more about them.

What I will do is give you some brief programming updates. Episode 2 of “ALL ACCESS” premieres this Friday 9:30 ET/PT on SHOWTIME. That is immediately before ShoBox, which is a three-fight card headlined by Devin Haney.

Then, once we get into fight week — as has become our hallmark — we will be distributing a whole variety of premium content across social media platforms, on SHOWTIME and elsewhere.

We’ve got the four installments of “ALL ACCESS DAILY.” That’s a daily digital series throughout fight week on YouTube and Facebook. We’ve got a daily series created specifically for Snapchat that is going to start even earlier than Fight Week.

We’ll also have livestream coverage of the Wednesday press conference, the Thursday press conference, the Friday weigh-in, as well as the Countdown Live pre-fight show.

So, as we get into these last nine days before the event, there is a variety of content available to satisfy every boxing fan’s need.

Both SHOWTIME subscribers and non-subscribers alike can purchase and live stream this event directly through the SHOWTIME app on a variety of platforms — plus, of course on traditional pay-per-view distributors — making this event available virtually everywhere and anywhere sports fans want to consume their content.

K. Swanson
Now we’re going to hear from Manny Pacquiao and to introduce Manny Pacquiao we have Fred Sternburg. Fred?

Fred Sternburg
Thanks Kelly. Well, I think Stephen said it best, “No introduction needed for boxing’s only eight-division World Champion and the reigning Fighter of the Decade.” So, let me present to you Manny Pacquiao.

Manny Pacquiao
Hello everyone. Good morning. I feel so happy and excited for the fight on January 19 and we’re ready – it’s all set.

Q
Manny, you’ve been now a professional for 24 years and I wonder, as all the big fights that you’ve had, what it is that still motivates you to keep boxing?

M. Pacquiao
I’m still passionate about the sport of boxing and boxing is my passion and that’s why I’m still here continuing fighting. I really love boxing and that’s why I’m always excited and preparing for my fight to be settled on January 19.

Q
Are there any things particular that you still want to accomplish?

M. Pacquiao
Talking about accomplishments, I really have accomplished what I want to accomplish in life. What I want to do is to maintain and stay at this level.

Q
Manny, are there any concessions or changes that you’ve had to make due to your age?

M. Pacquiao
The routine of my training is the same. Jog in the morning and train in the afternoon. But we have a couple of adjustments in training specifically for recovery.

Because sometimes we push ourselves heavy in training in the day and then I we’ll see if overnight I can recover, and then we’ll push again.

But if I cannot recover then I let my body rest so that the following day it can push again and work hard.

Q
What was it that lead you to take fights away from the Unites States?

M. Pacquiao
I think it just happened that some promotors and some people are most of the people they wanted me to fight there to see me live in-person. So, that’s an opportunity for them that they can see my fight.

Q
I just got off the phone with Freddie Roach and he said he thinks that you have the old killer instinct back. Is there indeed the return of a killer instinct and do you have more of a mindset of going for the knockout in this fight?

M. Pacquiao
That’s true I still have that killer instinct and the fire in my eyes is still there. That aggressiveness, the interest in this career is still there 100%. The speed, the power are still there. I’m so thankful to God.

I’m not saying I’m going to predict for this fight. I will do my best and I look forward to this the same as the last fight. But no prediction, I will do my best with what we did in training camp.

Q
Would you tell us what you said to Floyd Mayweather when you saw him at the basketball game the other day?

M. Pacquiao
Surprisingly, I didn’t know that he was there at the game. I was invited on that Filipino Heritage Night at the Clippers’ game. I didn’t know that he was there and then when they were throwing t-shirts to the crowds I saw him. And then I just say, “Hello.” That’s it.
Q
Regarding the Floyd Mayweather fight whether or not it’s going to happen. Has it gotten to a point where you kind of feel a little annoyed with the question?

M. Pacquiao
You cannot avoid the people that will ask if there’s a rematch with Floyd Mayweather because I think they have a big question mark in their mind and also in their heart about that what happened in that fight.

I’m just answering them that I don’t have a plan yet. I’m very focused on this fight January 19 against Adrien Broner because Broner is a former champion and he’s the kind of fighter that you cannot underestimate or take him lightly.

Q
What did it feel like having Freddie Roach back in your corner helping you prepare for a fight?

M. Pacquiao
Freddie’s never out of Team Pacquiao it just happened that I wanted Buboy to experience being a head trainer in one fight.

But it’s a good thing that we’re working here again and I like to be back here in Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles and back again in Las Vegas for a fight. I think that it’s good for us to be united and focused for this coming fight next week.

Q
Was the talent at welterweight a bit of a motivating factor to sign with PBC and potentially get those types of dream matches and turning them into a reality?

M. Pacquiao
I think after this fight it’s easy to talk about my next opponent. That’s very easy but right now my plan is one at a time, because — as they said — I am 40 years old.

I’m focused for this fight against Adrien Broner. One at a time. After the fight on January 19 that night then we can talk about my next fight.

Q
Could you rank your top five opponents as far as preparing for the fight and degree of difficulty?

M. Pacquiao
I think my top opponents are Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Miguel Cotto, Floyd Mayweather, Erik Morales and Ricky Hatton.

Q
What challenge does Adrien pose?

M. Pacquiao
We know already about his counter-punching. I know that he will wait for me and counter like Marquez did. I’m prepared for that and it will not happen again. I learned in the past and I have to correct my mistake.

Q
Can you talk a little bit about what you felt when you saw Mayweather fight on New Year’s Eve and is there any comparison between Adrien Broner and Floyd Mayweather?

M. Pacquiao
Adrien Broner is not a tune up fight. He’s a former champion. He’s fast, he moves fast and he’s a good boxer. And that’s why I don’t want to talk about my next fight until we finish this. I finish this business against Adrien Broner on January 19.

And about the exhibition of Floyd Mayweather in Japan, it’s my first time to see an exhibition that you knock your opponent out. Supposedly an exhibition is just to entertain people and nothing serious for three rounds. That’s what I understand about exhibitions.

Q
Do you have the desire to once again to be the undisputed Welterweight Champion?

M. Pacquiao
Let me take care of this January 19 and then I have to worry about who is my opponent next. I have no problem to fight anybody as long as there’s not a problem about negotiation. But my plan is just one at a time.

Q
What do you think of Adrien Broner as an opponent and as a person heading into January 19?

M. Pacquiao
It’s unfair to him that people are thinking that he’s not a serious challenge for me. No, Adrien Broner is a good boxer, he’s a high-caliber boxer. He’s a former champion and he’s the kind of fighter that you cannot underestimate or take him lightly.

K. Swanson
Thank you so much Manny, for answering those questions, we appreciate it. We’re so happy you’re back fighting in the United States for all of us to be able to come and watch you.

M. Pacquiao
Thank you, guys. Nice to be back here in the United States. Thank you, God bless.

K. Swanson
Thanks, Fred. Okay, now we’re going to transition over to Adrien Broner. I’d like to introduce Ravone Littlejohn. He’s the CEO of About Billions Promotion and he will make the introduction of Adrien Broner. Ravone?

Ravone Littlejohn
At About Billions Promotions we’re happy to be promoting this fight as the premier event that we’ve had in our infancy as a company. Adrien has trained very well and very hard. He’s more than ready for his opportunity. We’d like to thank all the promotional entities who are involved in this fight. And at this time I’ll go ahead and pass it over to Adrien.

Adrien Broner
What’s up with everyone? What’s good? Training camp’s been great. I’m training my ass off. I’ve been focused and I’m just ready to go out there and prove all the naysayers wrong.

Q
Adrien are you motivated by being am underdog in this fight?

A. Broner
It’s real motivating, but I don’t worry about it. I just don’t let it get to me. I just can’t wait for the bell to ring January 19.

Q
If you beat Manny Pacquiao how much would that erase any bad feelings or negativity associated with your losses?

A. Broner
It definitely would. In life they say you’re only as good as your last performance, so it’s definitely going to sweep a lot of things under the rug.

Q
What would it mean to you then to get that caliber of a victory? How big in the scheme of things would that be for you?

A. Broner
It’s going to be huge and I’m taking full advantage of it. I’m well-prepared and I’m just ready to go out there and perform.

Q
There’s there’s been some news reports about some of your legal issues. Has that in any way impacted your training or focus on this fight?

A. Broner
No, that’s just something I’ll take care of after the fight. Right now I’m 100% focused on this fight and I’m just ready to come to the ring January 19 and get a victory.

Q
My question is for Stephen Espinoza. Hey, Stephen, how are you? Just briefly, this event is a SHOWTIME PPV event on January 19. Do you have any comments on specifically Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya saying that PPV is dead in boxing?

And furthermore, do you think on a microeconomic level that PPV and American professional sports is dead?

S. Espinoza
Sure, I’m happy to. Look, on the concept of PPV we’ve consistently said that it’s a useful tool when it’s necessary, when you have a premium event. If you’ve got a filet mignon event, you’re going to have filet mignon prices. You don’t get filet mignon at the price of ground beef.

I think a lot of the blowback and the negativity around PPV comes when networks are trying to sell people PPVs that don’t belong there.

I didn’t hear too many people saying that Wilder versus Fury was not a premium event, a special event, a Heavyweight Title fight, an International Worldwide Title fight that deserved to be PPV

Likewise, on January 19 you have two of the biggest stars in the sport. Manny has a long history on PPV and the way this event was able to happen was through that tool. So these two events, plus Mayweather and McGregor, are the only PPVs we’ve done in the last three years.

So, I understand what Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya are saying. It’s a great marketing ploy and that’s really all it is is just a catchphrase because both of those guys rely on PPV and have relied on it as an integral part of their business in the past.

Eddie on one hand will say that they’re are terrible thing and they’re dead, but if we look at his U.K. business it’s basically all built on PPV.

Oscar himself while he’s saying that boxing PPVs are dead is simultaneously selling an MMA PPV. So, the reality is, it’s a useful tool. It rewards the fighters for taking tough fights and it allows some fights to happen that wouldn’t otherwise happen without that tool. But it should be used sparingly.

Q
Adrien, has that been frustrating for you that some people may not be taking you seriously?

A. Broner
No disrespect but I don’t care at all about Mayweather and Pacquiao or any other fights people are talking about. I’m focused on Adrien Broner and Pacquiao. I’m focused on getting this victory. And then I’m going to go to the drawing board with my team and make bigger moves.

Q
Did you get a chance to see Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse? And if so, what do you think of Pacquiao and how his skills have sort of translated now being 40?

A. Broner
Pacquiao’s a legend. He’ll always go down as one of the best in the boxing business. But I just feel like it’s my time to take over this sport and I’m coming to take the throne from Pacquiao.

Q
I just asked Manny on the previous call what his top five fights were in terms of preparation and degree of difficulty. He listed about six or seven and the top one was Oscar De La Hoya. You weren’t on the list. What do you think that says about him and do you think he’s in for a rude awakening?

A. Broner
I’m just focusing. I’m just ready to go in there and have a hell of a night and start a new chapter in my career.

Q
Do you think that your counter-punching ability is the antidote to his style of speed, jumping in, being aggressive?

A. Broner
It’ll definitely play a big part but we’ve got more in store to beat Pacquiao and I will show that January 19.

Q
What is the difference between the Adrien Broner who lost three fights and the one who is going into this fight?

A. Broner
My dedication to the sport. People who have seen me would 100% vouch for me. I know what’s at stake. A win over Pacquiao could take my career somewhere that I can only dream of. So I’ve got to take it seriously and I just really feel like it’s my time.

Q
What are the things you’re looking at in camp that gives you the confidence that you can knock Manny out?

A. Broner
The knockout is good but I’m definitely just going for the win. I just want to win, pointblank, period. Everybody goes into a fight wanting to knockout. Who doesn’t want to knock someone out? But, you know, things will unravel on January 19.

Q
Do you think that this is a must-win fight for you?

A. Broner
At the end of the day, if you’re a boxer, every fight is a must-win fight. You don’t ever want to go to a fight trying to lose.

As a competitor, as an athlete, when I prepare, I go in to win. I’m trying to win. It’s always a must-win situation.

Q
I’m wondering what you perceive the stakes to be when you ponder this and say to yourself, “Okay, I’m going to beat Manny Pacquiao.”

A. Broner
I don’t look at that. Boxing is a sport where you’ve got to go a fight at a time. So, I’m focused on Manny Pacquiao and after that we’ll look at other things and other avenues.

Q
Can you speak to the fact that you say this fight is for the ‘hood and how important it is to you to come out victorious?

A. Broner
Where I come from, man, we barely have seen someone to come out and be at the top level where I am today. So that’s why I’m doing this for the ‘hood to give back hope and show the young kids that they can follow their dreams.

That motivates me to just go in there and do my best. We’re going to go in there and get the victory.

DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS

DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Twenty-Year-Old Las Vegas Resident Takes On Former South African Champion In Battle Of Unbeatens Live at 10 p.m. ET/PT

Photo Credit-Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

SHREVEPORT – January 10, 2019 – Unbeaten lightweight and rising star Devin Haney and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni both made weight just a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event headlines a tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The precocious Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion who turned pro at age 17, headlines onShoBox for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s 28-year-old Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), who like Haney is unbeaten and spent four months training at the Mayweather Gym in Las Vegas in 2017.

The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at http://www.akafights.com.

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, Calif., will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) of Colombia in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez (10-0, 8 KOs) of Cuba and former college football player Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) of Indianapolis, Ind., squaring off in another eight-round bout.

All the fighters weighed at Paradise Theatre located inside Margaritaville Resort Casino.

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Lightweight 10-Round Bout
Devin Haney – 134 ½ lbs.
Xolisani Ndongeni – 134 ¾ lbs.
Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

Featherweight 8-Round Bout
Ruben Villa – 126 ¾ lbs.
Ruben Cervera – 126 ½ lbs.
(Contracted weight is 128 pounds)
Referee: Laurence Cole (Dallas); Judges: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

Heavyweight 8-Round Bout
Frank Sanchez – 216 ¼ lbs.
Willie Jake Jr. – 239 ½ lbs.
Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

FINAL QUOTES:

DEVIN HANEY:
“This is a 10-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International belts, so it’s a big deal. This is a true step up for me.

“It’s important for me build a name in different areas of the country. I’ve fought in Southern California and Philadelphia, and now I’m fighting in Louisiana. This fight I will show who Devin Haney is. In this fight I’ll showcase my skills and I’ll show my full arsenal.

“My style is not a style that people want to fight. I will fight whoever is out there. We haven’t been getting a lot call backs. I’ve had other offers from all the top promotion companies, but I want to remain independent and make my own decisions.

“My opponent has an awkward style. I know he has a lot of confidence and he thinks he can beat me. That’s great for him, but he hasn’t faced anyone with my combination of speed and power.

“At the end of my career I think it would be great if the world continued to say, ‘I don’t know if he can take a punch.’ That would be the goal.”

XOLISANI NDONGENI:
“I’ve trained and sparred with guys at Mayweather’s gym in Las Vegas for four months in 2017. I learned a lot got some great experience.

“I see a young, good prospect in Devin Haney. I just have to keep to my game plan. He doesn’t realize how fast I am. I’ll show some different looks, and know what he’s planning to do. Whatever Haney brings, I’ll adjust.

“I’ve been in some deep waters and I have more rounds than Haney. That experience will pay off for me.

“I’ve been knocked down once in my career. It was early and I came back to knock him down five times and won the fight.

“Haney wants to be called a contender. I’ve been a contender and I know what it takes to be at the top level of the sport. I’ve never taken a fight I wasn’t prepared for or thought that I couldn’t win.”

RUBEN VILLA
“This is exciting and what we’ve been working toward. The contracted weight is 128 for this fight, but I’m a natural featherweight at 126. I’m a southpaw but a natural righty. I throw a lot of jabs, that’s my style.

“I’m representing Salinas and want to be a world champion someday. I’m only 21 years old, and to already be fighting on ShoBoxis a dream come true.

“People say I don’t have the knockouts, but it’s in my mind and they will come. The power and knockouts will come.

“I once beat Devin [Haney] by unanimous decision in the amateurs. I was 15, and it was in the finals of the Junior Olympics. Devin’s real slick and aggressive and he moves well. That’s how you beat him.

RUBEN CERVERA
“I’ve never been to the U.S., and I love it here. The press conference and the amount of attention this fight is getting is amazing. I’m used to watching this kind of stuff on T.V. But my mind is totally focused on this fight.

“I have power in all my punches. I’m a strong fighter who has to take a step up in my career. I’m young, only 20 years old, so I’m anxious to get my career going.

“I know Villa is a southpaw. I’ve fought lefties several times in my career and have had no problem with it.

“There is a lot of talent in Colombia, but there aren’t the resources there to have a good career. You have to sacrifice a lot and that’s what I’ve done.”

FRANK SANCHEZ
“I’m 6-foot-4 and use my height to my advantage. I defected from Cuba in 2016 and my family is still in Cuba. My brother is the only one here in the States with me.

“I’m living in Miami now and training there. That will be my home base now.
“I’d love to fight [Deontay] Wilder. I want to be world champion so maybe someday I will. His technique is a little bit wild.

“I had great amateur experience and am a former member of the Cuban national amateur team. I know that will help me. I know there’s never been a heavyweight champion from Cuba, and I plan to be the first one.”

WILLIE JAKE JR.
“Indianapolis is a tough town to be a boxer because there’s not a lot going on there.

“I played college football [for Pasadena City College] but I hurt my wrist and decided to go into the military.

“[Frank] is a little fellow. He needs some maturing. I know they do things differently there in Cuba, but we both are fighting for our families. I’m going to let him know he needs to be a cruiserweight.”

MANNY PACQUIAO & ADRIEN BRONER LOS ANGELES MEDIA DAY QUOTES & PHOTOS

(Photo Credits-Esther Lin/SHOWTIME)

Pacquiao vs. Broner Headlines SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19 From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

LOS ANGELES (January 10, 2019) – – Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion, and former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted media days in Los Angeles Wednesday as they near their SHOWTIME PPV® clash taking place Saturday, January 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against Broner. Along with co-trainer Buboy Fernandez and longtime trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao spoke to media and worked out for the cameras at Wild Card Boxing Club.

Broner traveled to Los Angeles from his current training camp in Las Vegas to talk to media along with his trainer Kevin Cunningham at Ten Goose Boxing Gym, after spending most of training in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Here is what the media day participants had to say from the split-site media day Wednesday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“My journey in this sport is still continuing. I’ve accomplished everything I’ve wanted to, but I also want to continue to keep my name at the top. Even at 40-years-old, I can still show the best of Manny Pacquiao. I’m going to give the fans the speed and power that they’re used to seeing.

“I’m sure that Broner is focused on this fight. They are working hard and I expect him to be in great condition. We know how his trainer pushes him and has been pushing him in their training camp.

“I’m not taking this fight lightly. I don’t listen to any gossip about Adrien Broner, I just focus on my training. I want to be in 100 percent condition and ready for the fight on January 19.

“Adrien Broner is fast with his hands and he’s overall a good boxer. This is a big challenge that I’m excited for.

“Me, Freddie and Buboy know each other well and we have a great coaching staff right now. I’m happy with how everything has gone in training for this fight.

“Rest and recovery is definitely a key part of training. Sometimes when I work hard in the gym, my body can’t fully recover by the next day, so I’ve had to work more rest into the schedule. But as soon as I can, I’m back in the gym working hard.

“On January 19 I’m going to do my best. I can’t say a prediction, but I’m going to do the same thing I did for my last fight. My trainers know how hard I’ve worked in this camp for this win.

“My plan is to take it one fight at a time. I can’t talk about future fights until I do what I have to on January 19. You can ask me again after this one.

“This fight means a lot. It’s my first fight at the age of 40 so I’m excited to give my best and show the world what I can still do. Boxing is my passion, and public service is my mission. I love to bring honor to my country.”

ADRIEN BRONER

“Growing up and seeing Pacquiao fight, of course I always wanted to fight him. I’m a competitor. One day I want to be the best, and to be the best you have to beat the best. It starts here.

“This is my first PPV but I was always supposed to be here. God doesn’t make mistakes. After this victory, I will be taking over the sport of boxing. This is just the beginning.

“His last fight he did stop Matthysse, so I’m pretty sure he still has power. But I’m going to be ready, I’m going to be ready for whatever he brings to the table. We’re in shape to get it done, I can tell you that.

“This win makes me an icon. It makes me what I always wanted to be, and what everybody always thought I would be. A win here and I’m a legend overnight.

“It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I just can’t wait till round one. Everybody I fight says they are going to knock me out. That should be the objective of every fighter, but that’s not going to happen.

“The sky is the limit for me, but in boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. You can’t overlook anybody in this sport. My main focus is Manny Pacquiao and I will be ready.

“A win would mean a lot. It turns a new page in my book. It’s another beginning. I’m already a star in boxing, but a win here and I’m taking over the sport. This is just the beginning.

“It’s not a mystery – he’s been knocked out before. Not once, not twice, but three times. And he’s been put down a lot, too. There are many blueprints to beat Manny. I think I have all the tools to beat him. I will show all the tools in my arsenal and show all the weaknesses in his.”

BUBOY FERNANDEZ, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

“I think it’s going to be a knockout. If Broner opens the door, we’re going to get it early. I’ve seen from previous fights that he’s a slow starter. So we need to get inside and go first.

“We know that Broner is a good counter-puncher with a strong right uppercut. Broner is a real fighter and a smart fighter in the ring.

“I’m happy that Manny has shown that he moves as well as ever, even at 40-years-old. He’s learning even more now. I told the team that I think he’s already prepared for this fight.

“We just want him to maintain this shape and energy level. Manny is 110 percent ready. I don’t think there’s a fighter who can keep up with what Manny brings.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

“I can’t wait for this fight. Camp has been great and he’s been training very well. Everything is back to normal and he’s looked amazing.

“Manny and I have been together 15 years, so I had no reason to ever be mad at Manny. Everything has worked out really well and we’re working together as a team right now.

“I’m working on the game plan for how to fight Broner. He’s a counterpuncher who doesn’t like to come forward too much. Manny will have to be the aggressor in this fight and use his feints to trap this guy into making it more of a fight.

“I feel we’re going to see an aggressive Manny Pacquiao. There’s a rumor that Manny has been telling people he’s looking for a knockout. I love that attitude. I think his knockout of Lucas Matthysse was so satisfying and he saw that that’s what the fans really want. I think that’s going to carry over to this fight.

“Pacquiao and I have a deal. Once his work ethic drops, I’m going to tell him and he’s agreed he’ll retire. His work ethic is unbelievable right now. He hasn’t slowed down at all. He hit me with a shot in the chest two or three days ago, and I’ve never been hit harder in my life.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer

“Everything went tremendous in Florida. I’ve never seen Adrien this focused and I’ve been around him for years. He came to camp with a look on his face like this is the one he’s got to have. He prepared for nine hard weeks and we didn’t miss a beat. Everting was on point.

“He’s ready. He’s focused. We had tremendous sparring. Everything went great. We didn’t have any hiccups, any injuries or setbacks. He’s ready to go and he’s going to look spectacular on January 19.

“Manny fights with a high punch volume and he’s aggressive with it. But sometimes he’s reckless with it. Adrien is a sharp counter-puncher. He gets off first and last. If Adrien comes to the ring mentally sharp like I know he will, because physically he’s as sharp as ever, as long as his mind is on point, I think it’s going to be a long night for Manny and it’s the wrong fight for Manny.

“There’s a lot there to exploit. I know Manny throws a lot of punches and Adrien doesn’t throw a lot, but this fight is not about matching Manny’s punch count. This fight is about throwing the right shots at the right time.

“There’s a big difference in Adrien from the last camp. He didn’t take Jessie Vargas as seriously as he’s taking this legendary eight-time world champion in Manny Pacquiao. There were some things that went on that showed he wasn’t as focused as he is for a fight like this. He’s just been on point. He’s not screwing around. He’s not looking for days off to go have a good time. He’s just locked in on Manny Pacquiao.”

BADOU JACK LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

(All Photos- Credit Sean Michael Ham/Mayweather Promotions)

Former Two-Division World Champion Jack Takes On Unbeaten Marcus Browne for WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® Event From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

LAS VEGAS (January 10, 2019) – Former two-division world champion Badou Jack hosted a media workout at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas Thursday as he prepares to take on unbeaten top contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on the Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

A resident of Las Vegas, Jack is preparing to fight in his adopted home city for the 11th time as a pro on January 19. He will be making his third appearance on SHOWTIME PPV, having won a light heavyweight crown against Nathan Cleverly in August 2017 on the Mayweather vs. McGregor event.

Here is what Jack, his trainer Lou Del Valle and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe had to say Thursday:

BADOU JACK

“I feel young and like I’m still improving. I take care of my body every day. Age won’t be a problem for me, it’ll be an advantage.

“I’m a confident fighter. I don’t need to talk and brag about everything. I’m just comfortable; inside and outside of the ring.

“I’m battle-tested. I’ve been in there in tough fights. He hasn’t been tested like that, so we’ll have to see what he’s capable of when the pressure is on.

“Marcus Browne is an athletic and skilled fighter. But it’s a little different to fight on the prospect and contender level versus on this world class level.

“One of my biggest strengths in the ring is my ability to adjust. My trainer, Lou Del Valle, has really helped in that regard. He’s been in there as a world champion like me on the big stage. He knows so much about boxing.

“This is nothing new to me. I’ve been on a lot of big cards, so this is a regular day on the job. It’s exciting as always and I can’t wait to put on a good show.

“I feel like it’s my duty to give back outside of the ring. With this platform that I have, why wouldn’t I? We should use this platform for something deeper than boxing.”

On the Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV main event:

“It’s a really good fight. Pacquiao looked pretty good in his last fight, but Broner is very talented. Anything can happen in boxing, especially because Broner has a good chin and can fight. He just has to stay focused.”

LOU DEL VALLE, Jack’s Trainer

“Camp has been amazing. Every camp has just been better and better. He has improved on his weaknesses each time we work together. It’s incredible that a guy who’s 35-years-old can keep performing the way he is and still be getting better.

“We know that we have to be careful because Marcus is a good fighter. Everyone we fight at this level is quality. We’re only fighting champions and guys with the top pedigree. The better the fighter, the better we get.

“I don’t think that Marcus Browne wants to go the distance with Badou Jack. If you notice in previous fights, guys who fight Badou are not the same after. He takes a lot out of them and I think it’s going to happen again. Marcus is going to go for the early knockout, but we’re ready.

“The experience gap is a big difference. I had only fought one 10-rounder when I first fought for the title, but I still thought that I could beat him. The experience that Virgil Hill had over me was really difficult to overcome and I think you’ll see something similar play out in this fight.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“I think that this is going to be a very competitive fight. You have two guys in this fight that are very hungry. There are a lot of options in the light heavyweight division, and it’s all about timing. This fight gives both guys a chance to prove that they want to be the best and make a great statement.

“This fight has a very good chance of stealing the show. I like the fact that Marcus is very confident. If you’re in a big fight, you have to be. Badou is even-keeled, and he comes with his workman-like approach to every fight.

“Experience is everything in big fights. It’s a big deal when you’re under those lights. Going the distance with top guys, and knowing how to break guys down, it all plays a big role in fights like this.”

DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI
FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

Undefeated Top Lightweight Contender Haney Faces Fellow Unbeaten Ndongeni In The Main Event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, January 11 Live on SHOWTIME
®

All Photos Credit- Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

SHREVEPORT, La. (January 9, 2019) – One of boxing’s most promising rising stars, unbeaten lightweight Devin Haney, and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni, kicked off fight week with a final press conference Wednesday at Paradise Theatre in Margaritaville Resort Casino ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation main event bout this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, headlines the popular prospect-oriented series for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), an unbeaten 28-year-old who once held the IBO’s belt at 135 pounds.

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say:

DEVIN HANEY

Credit- Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

“After this fight I want the whole world to know I’m no longer a prospect. I’m a contender.

“I feel I have something to prove. I’m not just going for the win on Friday night, I want to make a statement. I want to look good. I want to show the world what I’m capable of.

“I think that with a win against a fighter like Ndongeni, the sky is the limit. This fight is going to take me to the next level.”

XOLISANI NDONGENI

Credit- Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME

“Come Friday night, it’s going to be show time. Because, with all due respect, I’m no pushover and I didn’t come here to lose.

“I’ve been in the game for a long time. I have fought many styles and I’ve seen it all. I’m not scared.

“We are not looking for anything less than a win. I’m not leaving here without one.”

RUBEN VILLA
“I know my opponent is a really good fighter but I don’t feel any additional pressure. This is what we trained for – a tough fight. I’m excited for Friday night. I’m eager to perform.

“Being able to fight on TV is going to finally put me on the map. After Friday night, people are going to be talking about me. They are going to see what I’m made of.”

RUBEN CERVERA
“I’m originally from Colombia and traveling all the way here has not been easy, but we came ready. We had a very successful camp. We did everything we wanted to do and more.

“I’m excited to fight on national television in the United States. I want to showcase what Colombian fighters are made off.

“I know my opponent is good, and undefeated, but only the best man will win, and that is going to be me.”

Willie Jake Jr.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity. This is an important fight for me. During training camp, I took one day at a time, step by step. I’m prepared for the challenge.

“I don’t underestimate my opponent, I will listen to my corner and I will put up a great fight.”

Exciting Super Bantamweight Contender Fernando Garcia Leads Stacked Non-Televised Undercard on Sunday, January 13

Exciting Super Bantamweight Contender Fernando Garcia Leads Stacked Non-Televised Undercard on Sunday, January 13 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

IBF Super Middleweight Champion Jose Uzcategui Defends His Title Against Undefeated Caleb Plant in the Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Event.

LOS ANGELES (January 7, 2019) – Exciting contender Fernando Garcia will take on Isao G. Carranza in an eight-round super bantamweight clash as part of a stacked undercard on Sunday, January 13 at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The 30-year-old Garcia (10-0, 5 KOs) has moved up the ladder in the division with three wins in 2018 and wants to make a statement against Mexico’s Carranza (15-13-1, 9 KOs). Garcia was born in Mexico but now lives and trains in Dallas, Texas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Also in action are two unbeaten prospects as Indio, California’s Ruben Rodriguez (3-0, 1 KO) takes on Daniel Perales (10-14-2, 5 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight contest, while featherweight Victor Slvansky (7-0, 4 KOs) clashes with Mexico’s Angel Monrreal (10-11-1, 3 KOs).

Plus, Philippines’ Michael A. Plania (17-1, 10 KOs) will meet Mexico’s Ramiro Robles (15-8-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight match. Rounding out the slate of non-televised fights is Desoto, Texas-welterweight Amon Rashidi battling Evincii Dixon in a four-round match.

The jam-packed undercard is part of a Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes show that features IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui taking on unbeaten Caleb Plant in the main event. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa take on Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.

The undercard will also see PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT) featuring the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Also light heavyweight power-puncher Ahmed Elbiali battles Oklahoma’s Allan Green on the Prelims telecast, if time allows. Plus, Ryan “Cowboy” Karl and Kevin Watts meet in an eight-round rematch after Watts stopped Karl in round five of their exciting April bout that serves as an FS1 TV swing bout

Welterweight Jayar Inson & Flyweight Genisis Libranza Take the Big Stage on Undercard of Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner

Welterweight Jayar Inson & Flyweight Genisis Libranza Take the Big Stage on Undercard of Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner Event on Saturday, January 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Trio of Unbeaten Prospects Also in Action as George Kambosos, Jr., Desmond Jarmon & Destyne Butler All Enter the Ring

LAS VEGAS (January 7, 2019) – Welterweight Jayar Inson and flyweight Genisis Libranza make their U.S. debuts on the big stage as part of the non-televised undercard headlined their fellow Filipino countryman Manny Pacquiao on Saturday, January 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Inson (18-1, 12 KOs) will battle in an eight-round welterweight match, while Libranza (17-1, 10 KOs) takes on Nicaragua’s Carlos Buitrago (30-4-1, 17 KOs) in an eight-round flyweight match as the two fighters from Davao City, Philippines look to continue their respective win streaks.

In the main event, Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion, will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner on SHOWTIME PPV®.

Three unbeaten prospects will also do battle in non-televised action as Australia’s George Kambosos, Jr. (15-0, 9 KOs) takes on Rolando Chinea (15-2-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight match, Cincinnati’s Desmond Jarmon (7-0, 4 KOs) clashes with St. Louis-native Canton Miller (3-1-1, 1 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight bout and Chicago’s Destyne Butler (4-0, 3 KOs) fights in a four-round welterweight match.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased on line through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

The pay-per-view undercard will see two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title and former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic matchup that was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten Jhack Tepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.

Leo Santa Cruz vs. Miguel Flores & John Molina Jr. Los Angeles Press Conference Quotes & Photos

Santa Cruz Defends Featherweight World Title Against Exciting Challenger Flores Saturday, February 16 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Main Event Live from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Hard-Hitting Molina Jr. Takes on Undefeated Former World Champion Omar Figueroa on Telecast Beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

LOS ANGELES (January 3, 2019) – Featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz and exciting challenger Miguel Flores went face-to-face Thursday at a press conference in Los Angeles ahead of their world title showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Also in attendance at Thursday’s press conference was hard-hitting John Molina Jr., who faces unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa in a 12-round junior welterweight clash as part of televised coverage beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports are on sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“He may think I’m underestimating him, but I’ve never underestimated any fighter I’ve faced. Media and fans may think differently, but I don’t think I’m superior to anyone else, I just do my work.

“I get all of my confidence from my training. I learn everything in the gym. I work hard and train like I’m the challenger. I want to go and give the fans a great fight and continue to grow my name.

“When I retire I want to be known as a great Mexican fighter, so I’ve trained very hard with my dad. Even though he’s sick, he still is in the gym pushing me and telling me what to do. It’s a huge motivation to see him there supporting me. I know that if he sees me pushing myself, it’s going to motivate him too.

“When I say that I want to unify the featherweight division, I’m not looking past Miguel Flores. I have to be positive and always look toward the future. I’m not looking back. I’m just training hard to get that win and become the best at 126-pounds. First that means beating Miguel Flores.

“This is going to be a great fight. Miguel Flores is a tough fighter who throws a lot of punches and comes forward. He’s got a big right hand and he works the body well. He’s a fighter who leaves everything in the ring.

“I want to unify against any of the champions. I want any of the champions in 2019 and I want to become the featherweight king.”

MIGUEL FLORES

“It’s been a long road for me. I’m going to put on a good show on February 16. Leo and his father are professionals and they’ll work hard in the gym, but I have a feeling they’re overlooking me.

“I know all the hard work I’ve put in the gym and I know that I deserve this opportunity and I’m going to prove it by making the most of it.

“This is a great night of fights and I’m thankful to everyone that made it possible. My trainer, Aaron Navarro, has been with me and is really a father figure for me. The support from back home has been amazing.

“I’m excited to be starting off the year with this great opportunity. I’m going to give the writers an easy task, because on February 16 I’m going to give them the Upset of the Year and the Fight of the Year on the same night.

“People are going to be in for a treat on February 16. We have two Mexican fighters going toe-to-toe. You’re going to want to show up to see this one.”

JOHN MOLINA JR.

“February 16, there is going to be a war. It’s a great night of fighting. This is a fight that I specifically asked for. I believe stylistically it’s going to be all-action.

“I saw Figueroa say that he’s not going to see me get out of the fourth round. Well he’s not going to see that, because he’s going to be asleep.

“Talk is cheap, like I always say. I could talk until I’m blue in the face about how I’m going to hurt this kid. But it’ll sound naïve until I show you on February 16.

“I like Figueroa’s confidence. It’s going to make for a great fight. I don’t ever want to face a guy who’s going to come to lose. I know he’s coming to win. I’m glad to share the ring with great fighters like Leo, Miguel and Omar for this special night.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Premier Boxing Champions have made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and biggest fights to Southern California.

“L.A. has always been regarded as one of the best fight cities in the world and home to some of the greatest fights in boxing. We believe that Los Angeles, including right here downtown, can become a major hub for the sport of boxing.

“Southern California has long been a hotbed of slugfests between great Mexican-American fighters, and with Leo Santa Cruz and Miguel Flores, plus Omar Figueroa vs. John Molina Jr., we have the makings of another all-out war on February 16. This is going to be a great night.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“Los Angeles is once again the fight capital of the world. There are some great matchups coming here for the passionate Southern California fight fans.

“The Microsoft Theatre is a fantastic venue for boxing and it hosts signature events throughout the year, and on February 16 it will host a great doubleheader. They say that styles make fights, and I don’t think there are better matchups than these two fights.

“These fighters are warriors. No one on this card is ever in a boring fight. It’s like throwing oil in the fire. This is going to be a night you don’t want to miss and a great crowd watching these fights.”

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