Standing-8

Badou Jack vs. Marcus Browne International Media Conference Call Transcript & Audio Recording

Click HERE for Audio Recording

Leonard Ellerbe
All right, thank you everyone for joining the call today. Today’s call we are going to be talking with former two division world champion, Badou Jack and undefeated former 2012 U.S. Olympian Marcus Browne, which will be a very exciting matchup as the co-feature to Manny Pacquiao taking on Adrien Broner on January 19.

Representing SHOWTIME, we have on the call Chris DeBlasio. Chris, would you like to say a few words?

Chris DeBlasio
Thanks, Leonard. Happy New Year to everybody and thanks for being on the call today. On behalf of Stephen Espinoza, who couldn’t be with us, he’s traveling on other business, I want to say, from all of us at the network, we’re proud to present this event.

We have a four-fight pay-per-view telecast with each matchup up holding a unique, significance in its own right.

We have two world title fights on the pay-per-view. There’s also a 12 round featherweight bout that’s going to open up the show between Jhack Tepora and Hugo Ruiz. We have a main event that pits two of boxing’s biggest stars in Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner in a really important, 147-pound world title fight.

But the co-feature here, this is an interim title fight between Badou Jack and Marcus Browne. These are two fighters that have come of age on SHOWTIME.

Both began their careers, early in their careers were featured on ShoBox: The New Generation against very tough opponents and have fought on virtually every live boxing series that we have on the network.

This is Marcus Browne’s eighth fight with SHOWTIME and this will be Badou’s 13th fight with us. So we’re proud to have them back. They have a special place for all of us on the crew and on the team here at SHOWTIME Sports and for all of our viewers who seen him develop their careers to this important moment.

Both men have something to prove on January 19. The light heavyweight division is a division that is now wide open. There’s a lot of fresh talent and a lot of people vying for the top spot. Both men deserve this shot and this entire card is a really terrific way to kick off 2019. We’re excited.

Just a brief program reminder regarding this event, ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER will premiere this Friday at 10:30 p.m. on SHOWTIME. It’s a three-part series covering the main event fighters as they prepare for the big fight.

Episode two will premiere on Friday, January 11 at 9:30 p.m., and that’ll be followed by our first ShoBox telecast of the year. So with that, I’ll turn it back to you, Leonard, and we’ll get right to the fighters. Thanks for your time.

L. Ellerbe
Yes, thank you, Chris. Again, as Chris touched on, this – in my eyes, this is an outstanding bout. This is a bout that the fans have been talking about for a while.

These two have been going back and forth a little bit on social media. What an outstanding co-feature to a great main event and overall outstanding card.

Talking a little bit about Marcus Browne, he’s a very, very exciting young fighter, a former Olympian who’s going to be looking to make a statement against a former two-division world champion in Badou Jack.

And I think that, come fight night on January 19, Marcus is looking to, not only make a statement but open himself up to fighting anyone else that’s out there, any top guys in the light heavyweight division.

So, without further ado, I would like Marcus Browne, who comes to us with a 22 and 0 record with 16 big KOs from Staten Island, New York. Marcus, would you like to say a few words?

Marcus Browne
Happy New Year everybody. I’m honored. I’m ready. I’m working hard. I’ve worked hard my whole career for this point and Badou Jack, a respectable guy, two-time world champion, but come January 19, we’re bringing the whole kitchen sink and anything else with it.

I’m ready to take care of business. I know he knows what’s coming to him. And I really haven’t got too much to say. I’m going to let my hands do the talking.

I’m not huge braggadocios kind of guy. Neither is he, from what it looks like. It was one of the easiest fights to be made in the division and I appreciate you for signing the contract and being a man and stepping up.

Come January 19, you got hell coming. You’ve got fury. You’ve got everything coming to you. This ain’t no Anthony Dirrell. This ain’t no washed up George Groves that got beat up by Carl Froch twice.

This ain’t no old Adonis Stevenson. This ain’t no Nathan Cleverly. This is Marcus Browne, my brother. So make sure you’re ready because I know I’m ready.

L. Ellerbe
Well, thank you, Marcus. And moving on to the former two division world champion. I can’t say enough great things about Badou Jack. He’s the guy that’s always willing to take on the best that’s out there.

This is a fight that he asked for and it’s a fight that I think that Marcus Browne’s style will make for a very, very exciting fight. Badou is used to fighting any and every different style.

It’s a fight that he’s really, really looking forward to. So without further ado, former two-division world champion, none other than Badou Jack.

Badou Jack
Hey, how is everybody doing? You know, I’m excited for this fight. I’m always in the gym, always working hard. So I don’t have to say that I’m ready. I’m always ready.

It’s going to be good fight. The young hungry guys have got something to prove. I’ve been there, been battle tested because I fought the best.

I don’t have to brag about what I’ve done. This is the best guy available and we’re going to have some fun. It might look easy from the outside. Well, it’s a little different when you step up to world-class in the competition.

M Browne:
Trust me. I know it ain’t easy. And I’m working like I’ve never worked before in my life, so trust me, I know it ain’t easy. And you could say what you want from the outside. Come January 19, you’re going to see. You’re going to see. So, keep it up.

B, Jack
I let my hands do the talking. Everybody knows me.

M. Browne
Same here.

B. Jack
We’ll see fight night.

Q
Badou, I was just wondering if you could maybe talk about your experience level at the top level,
do you feel you’re more prepared for this type of fight than Marcus is because of the level of opposition that you fought?

B. Jack
To have experience against great fighters, of course, is going to play a major role in big fights but in boxing, anything can happen.

I’m very confident. I’m ready and I’ve been waiting. I haven’t fought since May. I’m definitely ready. I’m really hungry, so experience is a major key, of course.

Q
Marcus obviously has a very fast hands. He’s a strong guy. What you think of him just overall as a fighter?

B. Jack
The little that I’ve seen, he’s a good fighter. He’s definitely a good fighter.

Q
Marcus, what do you think of Badou Jack and maybe his level of experience against top guys?

M. Browne
Well, most of his fights have been at 168. Nathan Cleverly was washed and Adonis Stevenson is old. He’s a very strong minded, hungry and a great champion, of course, but come January 19, he’s going to see that he hasn’t fight anybody like me, plain and simple. I’m not James DeGale.

This is the light heavyweight division. He’s fighting a real light heavyweight and a young, strong, light heavyweight. So, we’ll see come January 19, like he said.

Q
Marcus, I’m not sure how closely you watched the fight but when he fought Adonis Stevenson back in May, who did you think won?

M. Browne
I didn’t watch it to see who won. And, honestly, I really don’t care who won, it didn’t matter to me, but it was a good fight.

He started off slow. Picked it up towards the end. Still couldn’t get him out of there. So, good fight.

Q
Thank you, Marcus. I have a question for both guys, as well. Obviously what happened to Adonis last month was a reminder of how brutal this business is.

I was just wondering, Badou, having shared the ring with him, what your thoughts are and what happened to Adonis and maybe how he’s recovered so far. And, Marcus, I know you didn’t fight him, but if also you could speak to that as well.

B. Jack
I was very emotional about it because I’ve been in that ring with him in my last fight. And he took a lot of punishment in that fight.

He was stumbling around in the hotel after the fight. Everybody said he really took a beating. So, it’s sad. But this is what we signed up for. I’ve been praying for him since this thing happened. I’m glad he woke up and hopefully he can recover. It’s the business. It’s nothing personal.

This is just business. We’re trying to feed our families. Hopefully you get back to normal so he can enjoy his family and his kids and everything. He just had a daughter before for the fight so, it’s sad but God willing, he’ll come back to normal.

M. Browne
It’s a sad and unfortunate situation but this is what we sign up for, what we sign on the dotted line for, getting in the ring. That’s the risk that we take at fighting.

I feel bad for him but hopefully he comes out of this with all of his faculties, so he could be able to enjoy his family like Badou said.

Most importantly, he’s older. He’s an older fighter. Father time caught up with him. I heard he was going through a lot of things outside of the ring so maybe that was part of the reason. But hopefully he will be all right.

Q
Badou are you now at the point where you kind of feel that you have to enter each fight with the objective of taking the judges out of the result so that there are no doubts that you are the clear winner?

B. Jack
Yes, you can’t really complain to the judges. In all those close fights I had, I landed more than 100 more punches than my opponents. And most of them – this is sad, but most of them were not the same fighter after. I just have to make a statement. They’re not going to do me any favors.

Q
This is for the interim WBA title and if you win, would you welcome a fight against the full world champion, Dmitry Bivol?

B. Jack
Yes that’s the fight that I really wanted but, right now, I’m focusing on Marcus Browne. That’s where all my focus is, so I can’t look past anyone. I know that as a fighter better than anybody else.

L. Ellerbe
I’ll speak on that. If Badou is victorious in this fight against Marcus Browne, he’s willing to fight any of the light heavyweight champions out there – any of them.

Q
Would you say that the winner of this fight can make the claim that they are the best light heavyweight in the world?

B. Jack
There are four champions better ahead of Marcus Browne. So just me beating him, that doesn’t really make me number one. I thought I would beat Stevenson and he was the lineal champion. But I don’t really focus on that. I’m focusing on winning my fight. All of the other stuff is just bonus.

Q
Badou do you feel that you will be able to get up the way you normally would for a fight being that Marcus isn’t one of the champions?

B. Jack
Yes, that comes with experience. It’s the ability be ready whenever. It doesn’t matter if it’s the champion or if it’s a contender or whatever. You’ve got to think that every fight is a world title fight or the toughest fight of your life. So, my motivation is never a problem.

Q
Leonard I heard you say that after this fight, if Badou is victorious, he’s willing to fight all of the champions. Is he able to go out and seek those champions on their respective networks?

L. Ellerbe
We’re willing to listen and entertain any offers that are out there. Obviously, Badou has a very tough fight ahead of him in Marcus Browne and he’s got to get by Marcus Browne first before considering anything else. But to answer your direct question, we’re willing to listen to any offers that are out there, if he’s able to get past Marcus Browne.

Q
Marcus, how badly did you have your mind set on Badou? Was this your only option?

M. Browne
Actually, well, couple months ago, all other guys were busy and he was the only guy who wasn’t, so it was one of the easiest fights to make. It really doesn’t matter to me who I fight. I’m tired of sitting around and not being active. I like to actually be in the ring.

Q
Is there anything that you see in Badou that’s giving you confidence that or is it frustration of not getting one of the champions?

M. Browne
No, no frustration, and I don’t see anything. He’s a tough, tough fighter. He’s not an easy fighter. He’s no walk over. Super tough. Super gritty. Super headstrong, so there’s nothing that I see. He was just a guy who wasn’t busy and I wasn’t busy.

We’re in the same weight division. He’s a light heavyweight. He’s a two-time world champion. He really didn’t lose the belt. He gave it up to fight for the belt to get a draw, so he’s still a champion basically.

All I see is a champion, the guy who’s ready and willing to fight and so on. This is a business.

Q
Do you feel that it would be easy for you to get a fight after this debut if you were able to beat Badou because of who he has and what he’s considered in the division?

M. Browne
I’m not overlooking him. I’ll be focused on him. I’m not worried about fighting no other champions. All I’m worried about is fighting Badou Jack on January 19. And after that, we can discuss whatever.

But until then, I’m only talking about fighting Badou Jack at MGM Grand on January 19 in Las Vegas. That’s about it.

Q
Leonard, quick question here. I hope you’re having a good New Year’s. Looking at the WBA and WBC ratings, Badou and Marcus were both one and two.

Is there a particular reason why you went with the WBA route for this fight in terms of the interim title?

Leonard Ellerbe
No, not necessarily. As you just mentioned, both of these guys are highly ranked across the board. It wasn’t difficult at all. And from the Badou perspective, he is always willing and ready and basically available to fight any of these guys.

He has a tough fight against Marcus Browne for the WBA interim title and we’ll move on from there.

Q
Badou, if you beat Marcus Browne, would be your preference to go directly into a Bivol fight or would you like to explore another possibility?

Badou Jack
There are a lot of big names out there. Sergey Kovalev and Eleider Alvarez fight two weeks after me, so let’s see what happens. I’m focusing on what’s in front of me.

But I’m willing to fight any one of the champions. I prefer the one that pays me the most. If they’ll pay me the same, probably Bivol. But like I said, Marcus Browne is first. That’s it.

Q
One more question for you, Badou. What did you think of Bivol’s last couple of performances where he went the distance with older veterans?

B. Jack
I think he is a good fighter. I think he’s a good boxer, athletic. Everybody says, oh, he’s going to knock this guy out. Yes, but this is boxing. Jean Pascal is a tough guy.

It’s not easy to knock everybody out. That’s the thing. It’s a different story when you fight veterans and tougher guys than when you fight prospect opponents that you’re supposed to knock out.

It’s a different story. My last fights have been against world champions. It’s a little harder to knock guys like that out. But Bivol, I think he won every round. Most of the rounds against him anyway. I think he’s a good fighter.

Q
Marcus, should you beat Badou Jack, is it your wish to go directly to Bivol or would you like to explore other possibilities?

M. Browne
This is prize fighting, so whoever’s got the biggest prize, that’s who I want to fight. But, yes, whatever makes the most dollars, makes the most sense to me at this point in my career.

That’s where I’m at with that. But I’m not looking past Badou Jack. He’s not a guy to be overlooked in his own right. I’m not going to feel and talk about ten months ahead when I’ve got the biggest fight of my life in 17 days.

Q
Marcus, just want to get your personal opinion. Leaving you out of it, who do you think is the best light heavyweight in the world out of those four?

M. Browne
Marcus Browne. I ain’t leaving me out of it because I don’t care who’s the best light heavyweight because you’re talking to one right now.

Q
Marcus, given how most of your fights, since 2015, the last three years, really ended pretty quickly, are you making any adjustments in having to ensure that you’re able to go a full 12 rounds against a guy like Badou Jack?

M. Browne
That’s for me to work on and for you to see on January 19. At the end of the day, I know the type of fighter he is. We know he’s a work horse of a fighter and we’re prepared for that. He’s got great form. On January 19, you’ll see that I’m in shape or not.

Q
Do you still kind of feel like you need that win over Badou Jack to sort of make a true statement to all the boxing fans out there that you do belong in that elite echelon of fighters at 175 pounds?

M. Browne
I need a win against every fighter that I step in the ring with. No fighter is going to define my legacy. At the end of the day, this is all part of God’s plan, it’s already written and I’m just following it. This is not my dream, it’s my destiny and I’m taking it one day and one step at a time, one fighter at a time.

Badou Jack is not going to define my legacy and determine whether or not I am a real player in the light heavyweight division. My performance in this fight will.

Q
Badou you said you wanted to make a statement. What advantage does your experience give you with a guy like Marcus Browne with all of his skills?

Also, when you say you want to make a statement, does that mean that you don’t want to leave it in the hands of the judges and that you do want to get a knockout?

B. Jack
Of course, I don’t want to leave it in the hands of the judges. If you’re a fighter, you should never go the distance.

Every fight is a different fight so you never know. But all I know is I’ve been there before. I know what it takes. I know I’ve been on a bunch of pay-per-view cards.

I know what it takes in front of those lights. When it’s really getting down to a 50-50 fight, when you’re in a tough fight, I know what it takes.

Q
Do you feel like, when you say you want to make a statement, do you feel like you want to get a stoppage? What are your thoughts on that?

B. Jack
I’m listening to my corner and following the game plan. Of course, I want to knock guys out. If they don’t come, they don’t come. I’ll show you January 19 what I’m about.

Q
Marcus, do you feel any pressure to get the knockout, win every single round and that way, make a statement and not leave it in the hands of the judges? In other words, are you concerned about winning this?

M. Browne
I’m not concerned about anything at all. At the end of the day, we know what we’re working for. If a knockout comes, it comes. But if not, we are winning every round and that’s that.

I’m not here to lose rounds and that’s about it. But I’m not concerned about what the judges are doing. We already know what type of time it is already.

We should know how we’re coming. I’m not looking for a knockout. I’m just looking to box and do what I do and implement the game plan and systematically break him down.

L. Ellerbe
We would like to thank everyone for joining the call. We’re 17 days away. Again, this is a great, great matchup. Outstanding co-feature to Manny Pacquiao taking on Adrien Broner on January 19.

I guarantee you, this fight here will be probably the best fight on the card. These guys will be looking to steal the show, and again, it’s a very outstanding matchup and we’re very excited. Thank you everyone for joining the call.

Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Defends Title Against Exciting Challenger Miguel Flores

Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Defends Title Against Exciting Challenger Miguel 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

Plus! Undefeated Former World Champion Omar Figueroa Takes on Hard-Hitting John Molina Jr. in Clash of High-Octane Styles Telecast Starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

Tickets on Sale Now!

LOS ANGELES (January 3, 2019) – Featherweight world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz will defend his WBA title against Houston’s Miguel Flores in a showdown that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features an exciting 12-round junior welterweight clash between unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa and hard-hitting John Molina Jr.

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

“Leo Santa Cruz is one of the most dynamic boxers in a deep division that features outstanding boxers,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Santa Cruz is never in a boring fight. His high volume punching is highlighted by its accuracy and efficiency, making him a master ring tactician. Miguel Flores always comes to battle and has caught a couple tough breaks. But a victory over Santa Cruz could reverse his ring fortunes. Omar Figueroa vs. John Molina Jr. Enough said. You know what they do.”

“Leo Santa Cruz and Miguel Flores were both born in Michoacán and they have the blood of the proud Aztec warriors flowing through them,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “Between them they have 61 fights and 58 wins! For them, February 16 is not just going to be another fight, for them it is about pride and country. The huge audience on FOX and FOX Deportes will be in for a treat and so will be the thousands in attendance at the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles. What a way to start the New Year!”

A three-division world champion fighting out of Los Angeles, Santa Cruz (35-1-1, 19 KOs) enters this fight after completing a second exciting duel against Abner Mares that again saw Santa Cruz edge his rival on the scorecards. The 30-year-old will make the third defense of his title after he claimed the 126-pound belt from Carl Frampton in 2017, avenging the defeat he suffered to Frampton the year before. Santa Cruz has competed in title bouts in 15 of his last 17 fights, while picking up belts at 118, 122 and 126-pounds.

“I trained really hard for this fight like I do all my fights and I’m really focused and determined to get the win, because I know that after this one, I want to clean up the division,” said Santa Cruz. “I’m not overlooking my opponent at all. The main thing is I have to get this win and look great against Miguel Flores. I want to beat Flores and continue to show the world that I’m one of the best. After defeating Flores, I’ll be ready to clean up the division. I just have to be smart and not be too wild because I want to get the knockout and look spectacular. I know if I can be calm, I can do what I have to do.”

Flores (23-2, 11 KOs) was born in Mexico, but was raised and fights out of Houston. The 26-year-old rose up the rankings with victories over Ryan Kielczweski, Ruben Tamayo and Mario Briones. After suffering a setback defeat to Dat Nguyen, Flores was ahead on the scorecards against Chris Avalos in a fight on FS1 when the contest was stopped due to a cut on Flores’ eyebrow that was controversially ruled to have come from a punch. Flores bounced back in his last fight to stop Raul Chirino in April.

“We’re taking this fight very seriously and we understand that we’re going against the top featherweight in the division,” said Flores. “We know he’s looking to unify, but he has to first worry about me on February 16. We have to stay focused and smart. We know Leo likes to have brawls and he likes to throw a lot of punches. We have to be smart and box when we want to box and fight when we want to fight. We have to stick to our game plan.”

Figueroa (27-0-1, 19 KOs) made a name for himself with his relentless style that led to him capturing a lightweight title against Nihito Arakawa in a memorable 2013 clash. Representing Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa went on to defend his title twice before defeating former multiple-division champion Ricky Burns in 2015. The 29-year-old followed that up with a victory over Antonio DeMarco and after an injury layoff, came back in 2017 to drop Robert Guerrero five times on his way to a stoppage victory on FOX.

“I’m approaching this fight as something huge, and as a catalyst to even bigger things,” said Figueroa. “This is like the last leg of my career considering I just turned 29 a few weeks ago. I know it’s cliché to say it’s a crossroads, career-defining fight, but it is. I’m using this as building my case to take over the boxing world. I don’t think there’s any secret to my strategy. We all know how I fight. I plan to steam roll over him and get him out of there as quickly as possible. The thing that kills my opponents is they know what’s coming and they can’t stop it.”

Molina (30-7, 24 KOs) has never backed down from a challenge and has been in the ring with some of the best boxers from lightweight to welterweight during his career. The 35-year-old from Covina, California beat a fierce Ruslan Provodnikov by unanimous decision in 2016. Another standout battle from Molina’s career saw him drop former welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse twice before losing on an 11th round knockout. In his last fight he scored a fourth round TKO victory over Ivan Redkach in a back-and-forth bout from last December on FS1.

“This fight has been a long time coming, I’ve personally asked for it for three or four years now and it’s finally here,” said Molina. “I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas day to open my gifts. I’m crazily excited to open this gift. I have to be myself and I believe it will be a victory for me. Omar is no slouch. It’s tough to beat a guy who doesn’t like to lose and doesn’t know how to lose. He’s got that zero on his record for a reason. It’s going to a very entertaining fight. I believe this is the fight of the night and we’re going to steal the show.”

DeGALE v EUBANK JR ANNOUNCED FOR 23 FEBRUARY

DeGALE v EUBANK JR ANNOUNCED FOR 23 FEBRUARY
FIRST MAJOR UK EVENT FOR ITV AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr will clash at London’s O2 on 23 February in the first major UK event of the new deal between ITV and Haymon Sports’ Premier Boxing Champions, it has been announced.

The Super Middleweight match, to be screened exclusively live on ITV Box Office, will take place against a backdrop of hostility between two fighters who have long made no secret of their mutual dislike and are relishing the prospect of settling their differences in the ring.

James DeGale has already fired off an opening shot in the direction of his opponent.

He said: “Really excited and looking forward to being back home to a fight of this magnitude.

“I believe Eubank doesn’t have the pedigree, the size and skill to beat me.

“Eubank is a decent fighter but every time he has stepped up he has been found out. He has called my name for a long time so now I’ve finally got my chance to zip his lips.”

Eubank Jr responded in kind, saying: “DeGale is going to get the schooling of his career. A good old-fashioned hiding.”

Poxon Sport is the promoter of DeGale v Eubank Jr, as the exclusive promoter of all UK PBC events on ITV.

The fighters faced off at the Hotel Café Royal, in London, today [Thursday 3 January]. Live streaming of the press conference was hosted by ITV’s Gabriel Clarke on the ITV Box Office Facebook page and Youtube channel.

Full details of the undercard and how to access this ITV Box Office PPV event across all platforms will be announced and made available in due course. For updated and further information, please go to http://www.itvboxoffice.com

Tickets for the fight go on sale on Friday 4 January at midday to O2 members and to the wider public at midday on Monday 7 January. Tickets available from http://www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from http://www.sportandmusic.co.uk.

News of the DeGale v Eubank Jr showdown follows the announcement at the end of December of two major world title fights to be shown free to air on ITV4 as part of the broad scope of the ITV and PBC deal. On Sunday, January 13, Jose Uzcategui defends his IBF Super Middleweight World Championship against unbeaten top challenger Caleb Plant. Coverage will come live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The following weekend, on 19 January, ITV4’s coverage will come live from Las Vegas where Manny Pacquiao will defend his WBA world welterweight title against Adrien Broner. The exclusive ITV4 coverage will also include the much-anticipated showdown between Badou Jack and Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight title.

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK.

The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK. The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivalled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US. PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States.

The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open.

Former World Champion Guillermo Rigondeaux Returns to the Ring Against Giovanni Delgado

Former World Champion Guillermo Rigondeaux Returns to the Ring Against Giovanni Delgado as Part of Jam-Packed Undercard Sunday, January 13 from Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

Premier Boxing Champions Prelims Live on FS1 & FOX Deportes Begin at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT. Also Featuring Hard-Hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado.

LOS ANGELES (January 2, 2019) – Former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux will return to action against Mexico’s Giovanni Delgado in a 10-round match on Premier Boxing Champions Prelims live on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

The Prelims show begins at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT with hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado (7-0, 7 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight fight. Also light heavyweight power-puncher Ahmed Elbiali (17-1, 14 KOs) takes on Oklahoma’s Allan Green (33-5, 22 KOs), which will be shown on the telecast if time allows.

Prelims precede 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.

In an anticipated rematch Ryan “Cowboy” Karl (15-2, 9 KOs) meets Kevin Watts (12-3, 5 KOs) for an eight-round super lightweight FS1 TV swing bout. Watts stopped Karl in the fifth round of their exciting April bout.

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.

Rigondeaux (17-1, 11 KOs) will step into the ring against Mexico’s Giovanni Delgado (16-8, 9 KOs) for a super bantamweight attraction as he seeks to show off the masterful technical skills that made him a unified world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. He will look to rebound from his defeat to Vasiliy Lomachenko last December when he competes on January 13 against the 27-year-old Delgado (16-8, 9 KOs).

A rising prospect from Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Lindolfo Delgado picked up five knockout wins in 2018, after turning pro in 2017 following the 2016 Olympics. The 23-year-old will fight in the U.S. for the second time when he makes his 2019 debut on January 13.

Born in Cairo, Egypt and now living and training in Miami, Elbiali bounced back from a loss to former champion Jean Pascal with a third-round knockout of Zoltan Sera in June. The 28-year-old scored knockouts in 13 of his first 16 pro bouts and will take on Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Green, who most recently defeated Edgar Perez this year.

DEVIN HANEY MEDIA DAY QUOTES AND PHOTOS

Undefeated top lightweight contender faces Xolisani Ndongeni in the Main Event of Shobox: The New Generation Friday, Jan. 11 Live on SHOWTIME®

devin haney mario serrano devin haney promotions

Credit- Mario Serrano/Devin Haney Promotions

LAS VEGAS (December 28, 2018) – Heralded undefeated lightweight contender Devin Haney worked out for the media Thursday at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas ahead of his ShoBox: The New Generation main-event bout Friday, Jan. 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME®.

The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, will headline on the popular up-and-coming prospect series ShoBox for the third time of his young career when he takes on fellow unbeaten Xolisani Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs) in a 10-round main event taking place at StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

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 Haney and his father and trainer Bill Haney had to say:

DEVIN HANEY

On his recent training camp:
“Training camp has been fantastic. I always start in Las Vegas for the first two weeks. I then went to the Bay Area to train at the SNAC facility with Victor Conte for four weeks. I did a lot of rounds of sparring with Mario Barrios among others at Virgil Hunter’s gym as well. Right now, I’m back in Las Vegas with my strength and conditioning coach Reggie. We are working hard, and I’ll be at my best when I step into the ring on Jan 11th.”

On facing South Africa’s undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni:
“I know fighters from Africa always come to fight. Xolisani Ndongeni is no different. He’s very experienced and undefeated. Ndongeni has gone 12 rounds many times in his career. These are the type of fights I need to win impressively. I’m always looking to improve. Beating the tough South African will get me one step closer to a world title shot.”

On making his third appearance on ShoBox:
“Fighting on SHOWTIME’s ShoBox series has been amazing for my career. This is my third appearance on the series. It feels great to have a home to showcase my talent. Ndongeni will bring out the best in me. I’m ready to graduate to SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.”

On when he thinks he’ll be ready for a world title:
“I’ve climbed the rankings with good wins against Mason Menard and Juan Carlos Burgos. I’m rated in the top 10 in the WBA, WBC, and IBF. I’m focused on Ndongeni and January 11th is my time to shine.”

BILL HANEY, Devin’s Father and Trainer

On the progression of his son Devin Haney:
“Devin always impresses me with his work ethic and commitment to the game plan. Every day in the gym he is working on the little things that makes a fighter great. Devin has come a long way since his pro debut. Once he started fighting on SHOWTIME, he’s really stepped up his game. He’s a natural born fighter and one hell of a good entertainer.”

On picking his opponents:
“We always look to step him up in competition. This is a big fight for us and we know what we are up against. These are the type of fights that are going to take him to the next level.”

On the landscape of the lightweight division:
“The lightweight division is stacked and is one of the best in boxing. [Vasiliy] Lomachenko and [Mikey] Garcia are considered pound-for-pound top 10. The young guys coming up are very talented as well and to hold the lightweight title at this time you got to be a bad boy. Devin is marching up the rankings and hopefully by the end of the year, we’ll get our shot, but first we must handle business against Xolisani Ndongeni.”

CALEB PLANT LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Unbeaten Super Middleweight Contender Plant Challenges IBF Champion Jose Uzcategui in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Sunday, January 13 from Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

LAS VEGAS (December 28, 2018) – Undefeated super middleweight contender Caleb “Sweethands” Plant hosted a media workout in Las Vegas Friday as he nears his first world title opportunity when he takes on IBF 168-pound champion Jose Uzcategui in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

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.

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.

Here is what Plant and his trainer Justin Gamber had to say Friday from City Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

CALEB PLANT

“This is a great matchup. I think this could be one of the best fights of the year. On paper at least, it already looks like that. He’s a rough rugged guy who comes forward and I know he’s coming to win.

“Any time that a pro fights for his first world title, it’s something that they’ve always dreamed of. This is something that I’ve always wanted. I’m excited to be here and be a part of this great night on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

“I really think that with our styles, this is going to be fireworks. I believe that on January 13 you will hear ‘and the new!’

“I’ve had the same team with me since the amateurs with only a couple new additions the last few years and we’re a close-knit family. It’s not just our job and our careers. I have a great corner. Everyone is calm, cool and collected and I feel we have a lot of knowledge. I’m excited for them to be on this journey with me and now we’re at the first stop.

“I’m going to bring excitement. Everyone who’s watched me sees my boxing skill, the speed, the footwork, but we have some new additions that we’ll throw in there for this fight. Everyone needs to tune in January 13 to see what it looks like.

“I’m so thankful for everyone, especially back in (Plant’s hometown) Nashville, Tennessee, who have been following me since the beginning. I’m not just doing this for me, I’m doing it for us. It’s going to be all of us in that ring on January 13.”

JUSTIN GAMBER, Plant’s Trainer

“This is what we’ve trained for since Caleb turned pro. This is the direction we’ve been headed the whole time and this is the biggest fight of our lives. We’ve put in as much work as we could. It’s been smart work, not only hard work.

“We’ve done everything we’ve had to in the gym, we’ve done our homework and we’ll be ready on fight night. This has been our best training camp by far. Everything Caleb has learned has led up to this point.

“Everything is coming together and Caleb is looking better than he ever has. He’s faster, stronger and he has more confidence than he’s ever had before.

“I love this matchup. Stylistically, Uzcategui comes forward, but he can do some different things. He’s a right-hander but he can fight southpaw. Uzcategui is good all around. He’s not great at any single thing, he’s just good everywhere.

“In this fight Uzcategui’s biggest assets will be his experience and his comfort level in the ring. But I think he’s tailor-made for Caleb and the hand speed and defense he brings. It’s definitely not going to be an easy fight, but it’s a fight that could play into Caleb’s hands stylistically. “

JERMALL CHARLO DEFENDS WBC INTERIM MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP WITH VICTORY OVER MATT KOROBOV

JERMALL CHARLO DEFENDS WBC INTERIM MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP WITH VICTORY OVER MATT KOROBOV IN MAIN EVENT OF PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON
FOX & FOX DEPORTES SATURDAY NIGHT FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

Tony Harrison Shocks Jermell Charlo to Win WBC Super Welterweight Championship by Unanimous Decision

Dominic Breazeale Scores Sensational Ninth-Round Knockout Over Carlos Negron In Heavyweight Duel

BROOKLYN (December 23, 2018) – WBC Interim Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo (28-0, 21 KOs) won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Matt Korobov (28-2, 13 KOs) to defend his title in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday night from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

“I had fun in there with a tough opponent like that,” said Charlo. “I got the win and that’s the main thing. I still feel I’m the best in the world. I just need to prove it to the rest of the world.”

Credit-Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

The southpaw Korobov had success early countering Charlo with straight left hands that landed cleanly, even if they didn’t deter Charlo from coming forward. Korobov was successful countering to the body as well and ended the fight with a 119 to 114 advantage in power punches landed according to CompuBox.

Credit- Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

Charlo stayed consistent with his jab however through the early rounds and began to break through later as Korobov’s right eye appeared to close during the middle rounds. Charlo out-jabbed Korobov by a 56 to 9 advantage in jabs landed, and also threw nearly 200 more punches throughout the fight per CompuBox.

In round 12 Charlo closed the show and nearly stopped Korobov, who used his experience to hold and move enough to survive the round. Charlo landed a clean left hook to the head early in the round that put Korobov on shaky legs, and he followed up with several strong punches that forced Korobov to try to survive.

“I used everything that happened tonight as motivation in the 12th round,” said Charlo. “I haven’t been that far in a fight in a couple of years. It felt good to be in there, get hit and bang with someone. He was an experienced guy who will make me better.”

After 12-rounds of action, Charlo won the unanimous decision by scores of 119-108 and 116-112, even after watching his twin brother lose a tough decision minutes prior to his fight starting.

Credit- Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

“I felt like Jermell made his fight harder than it was,” said Charlo. “I had a really tough opponent, but he wasn’t better than me. There was a lot on my mind in the ring.”

Korobov thought he had done enough to win the fight after he stepped in as a replacement opponent one week prior to fight night.

“I thought that I won the fight,” said Korobov. “It was definitely a fight that could have gone either way, but I believe the people know that I won. I’m the most avoided fighter in boxing and I showed why tonight. I hope this performance will get me another title fight.”

In a back-and-forth title showdown, Detroit’s Tony Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) pulled off the upset to win a narrow unanimous decision over Jermell Charlo (31-1, 15 KOs) and capture the WBC Super Welterweight Championship.

“I dictated the pace,” said Harrison. “That’s what champions do. He wound up for big shots and I kept my defense tight. All we worked on was defense. I kept my composure and I did what champions do.”

Credit-Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

Charlo expressed his disagreement with the judges’ decision after the fight. “They took that fight from me,” said Charlo. “I was pressing the action. He didn’t win that fight.”

Credit- Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

Harrison was effective with his jab as he attempted to keep the power-punching Charlo at bay. Harrison landed his biggest punch of the fight in round five when a straight left appeared to temporarily stun Charlo.

Credit-Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

Charlo was able to land several effective power punches throughout the 12 rounds, including an overhand right late in round five that wobbled Harrison. Round nine saw both men land significant shots, which lead to an exchange where Charlo urged Harrison to keep coming forward.

“I got back to my corner after every round and they told me to just keep doing what you’re doing,” said Harrison, “You’re dictating the pace they said. That’s what champions do. Champions don’t just try to knock people out. That’s all he wanted to do. I dictated it. I used my jab. I dictated the fight. That’s what champions do.”

Harrison was caught off balance in round 11 and again in round 12 by Charlo power punches, but was able to use his movement and hold at key times to survive both rounds. After 12 rounds of action the judges preferred Harrison’s jab, movement and counters to the forward-charging power punches of Charlo.

All three judges scored the fight for Harrison, by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 twice. Per CompuBox, Harrison connected on 34 percent of his punches throughout the fight to Charlo’s 29 percent clip, while Charlo out landed Harrison 160 to 128, plus a 108 to 71 advantage in power punches landed.

After the fight, Harrison indicated he would be willing to give Charlo a rematch while Charlo immediately stated his intention to get his belt back.

“Jermell – you gave me a shot – I’ll give you a rematch,” said Harrison.

“I’m going to get my belt back,” said Charlo. “I still want Jarrett Hurd. I know my brother knows I won that fight. I might have given away a few rounds, but I won that fight.”

In the opening bout of the telecast, top heavyweight contender Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (20-1, 18 KOs) delivered a once-punch knockout victory over Carlos Negron (20-2, 16 KOs) in the ninth-round of their heavyweight showdown.

“I knew the big shot was coming, it was just a matter of time,” said Breazeale. “I was setting up that right hand all night. Since the third round I noticed he dropped his left hand when he took a step to the left, and that’s what I got him with.”

Credits-Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

Breazeale started out slowly as Negron was able to score early with a lead left hook and an effective body attack. Breazeale stalked his opponent and threw power punches with some success before connecting on a huge right hand before the bell to end the fourth round.

“It’s been a long stretch since I’ve been in the ring,” said Breazeale. “I definitely worked off some ring rust, worked some great combinations and body shots, and finally got the knockout.”

The 2012 U.S. Olympian Breazeale had more success through the middle rounds, controlling the action with his jab and pressure that negated Negron’s offense. Midway through the ninth round, Breazeale caught Negron in the corner and connected on an overhand right that sent Negron crashing into the ropes.

Referee Arthur Mercante stopped the bout 1:37 into the ninth round. Breazeale, who is the mandatory challenger for heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, had a message for the champion, who was seated ringside.

“I’m next in line for Deontay Wilder and I’m coming for him,” said Breazeale. “I’ve been waiting for him and I did what I had to do tonight. I’m ready for him now.

“I know Wilder is here in the crowd. He came to watch. He knows I’m next. He better be holding on to that belt really tightly, because I’m coming. ‘Trouble’ is already here.”

KEITH THURMAN VS. JOSESITO LOPEZ, PLUS ADAM KOWNACKI PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

KEITH THURMAN VS. JOSESITO LOPEZ, PLUS ADAM KOWNACKI PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

Welterweight World Champion Thurman Defends Title Against Veteran Contender Josesito Lopez; Undefeated Adam Kownacki Battles Gerald Washington Saturday, January 26 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

BROOKLYN (December 22, 2018) – Unbeaten welterweight champion Keith Thurman and veteran welterweight Josesito Lopez, plus Brooklyn’s undefeated heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki, hosted a press conference Saturday night to discuss their fights on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes taking place Saturday, January 26 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see Kownacki battle former title challenger Gerald Washington in a 10-round contest and unbeaten featherweight contender Tugstgogt Nyambayar take on Claudio Marrero to open the telecast, all leading up to the Thurman vs, Lopez main event.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the fighters had to say Saturday before going face-to-face in the Barclays Center interview room, prior to the PBC on FOX fight night in Brooklyn:

KEITH THURMAN

Credit- Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

“I feel great physically. We’re working really hard and just getting back into everything we did before the injury. It feels tremendous and I’m so happy to be able to do this back in Brooklyn. January 26, you will see the return of the number one welterweight in the world.

“I need to come back and stay active and healthy. I’m going to remind everyone this year why I’m one of the baddest men on the planet. At the end of the day, I’m here to make a statement that ‘One Time’ is back.

“I have one belt, and I’m missing one belt. I’m going to re-establish my own accomplishments this year, then go from there. We’re taking it one fight at a time. Right now my eyes are set on Josesito Lopez.

“I’m a world-class fighter. I’ve fought through injuries my whole career. A real fighter ends up getting addicted to the game. There’s nothing better in this life than being under those lights and being part of the action.

“My legacy is not over. Unification against Danny Garcia was not enough for me. Ultimately, I’m just waiting to be presented with a man who is better than me. There might not be one, but I’m not afraid to let my ‘0’ go.

“I need fights like this against a guy like Josesito Lopez. He’s going to be there and give the fans a great fight. He’s coming to take me out. He looked like he was in shape a month ago when I first saw him.

“It’s been a long time and I’m truly honored to be back. It’s been hard for me to not be in the ring while I wait for the elbow to recover. I’m so happy to be back.”

JOSESITO LOPEZ

Credit- Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

“I’m really excited to be here tonight. Keith Thurman is a world-class, elite fighter and I’m going to make the most of this opportunity.

“I’ve been in this position before and I’ve never shied away from big battles. This is another big one and I’m going to be ready for it and become world champion.

“I’m sure Keith Thurman is as strong and skilled as anyone I’ve ever faced. He’s undefeated for a reason. I give him his respect for that. I’m preparing for him to be the best fighter I’ve ever faced.

“We’re both experienced fighters who have fought world class competition. I’ve faced my share of tough heavy punchers. I’ve pretty much seen it all. Come January 26, we’re going into deep waters and we’ll see how each of us reacts.

“No matter how active Thurman has been, the importance of this opportunity doesn’t change. If anything we might see a better and healthier Keith Thurman than we’ve seen in years. I’m expecting the best Keith Thurman there is.

“I’m going in against one of the toughest welterweights out there. I don’t need anyone to believe in me but myself. I’m going to give it my all to come out with that title.”

ADAM KOWNACKI

“January 26 is going to be a great night. Every time I fight, it’s very exciting. I throw a lot of punches and bring the pressure. Gerald Washington is going to be a tough test, but if I get through him, I’m even closer to a title shot. That’s the ultimate goal.

“It’s a little bit of a fairytale story. I was just a little kid from Brooklyn wearing the Golden Gloves and now I’m fighting at Barclays Center. It’s a whole new environment. Hopefully next year I’m the main event. That’s the goal and it’s going to be a dream come true. I have to keep working hard to achieve it.

“I think when I fought Iago Kiladze, he was also a runner who could box. I managed the ring very well with him so I’m looking to do the same with Washington and punish the body. The taller they are the harder they fall.

“Gerald Washington is a tough exam. He’s a former title challenger and I know he’s going to bringing his “A-game.” My goal is to become the heavyweight champion of the world and in order to do that I have to get by Washington. That’s what I plan on doing.”

Unified Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields Thankful for Big 2018 & Looks Forward to Making More History in 2019

Salita Promotions

Unified Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields Thankful for Big 2018 & Looks Forward to Making More History in 2019

Two-Division Champion Preparing for Undisputed Middleweight Championship Showdown Against Christina Hammer in 2019

FLINT, MI. (December 19, 2018) – Claressa Shields has had a banner career year in 2018 capped off by recently being named the Boxing Writers Association of America’s Female Fighter of the Year and ThePrizeFighters.com’s Fighter of the Year and Fight of the Year for her victory over Hanna Gabriels. In addition to her recently announced honors, Shields was also inducted into the USA Boxing Hall of Fame and was a Women’s Sports Foundation nominee for Sportswoman of the Year earlier this year.

“I’m happy with my progress and accomplishments in 2018 but I’m even happier about the tremendous advances of women’s boxing this year,” said Shields. “We will make even more history in 2019, including my fight with Hammer to crown the undisputed middleweight champion of world.”

This has been the pinnacle year for women’s prizefighting and for Shields, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and unified middleweight champion. Shields showed her deserved place among the top of the field by displaying her skills and grit in each one of her contests. She went 4-0 and beat opponents with a combined record of 49-4 including two world champions in Hanna Gabriels and Femke Hermans, plus one multi-time former world champion in Tori Nelson. Shields won three middleweight world title belts (WBC, WBA and IBF) in her second weight division and was the only fighter to fight major bouts on SHOWTIME, HBO and and new streaming service DAZN.

This monumental year will lead into what will be the biggest fight of her career, when she takes on middleweight world champion Christina Hammer for the undisputed middleweight championship in 2019.

“Claressa has had a meteoric rise this year with her impressive accomplishments inside and outside the ring,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita “This has been a breakout year in many ways for women’s boxing and Claressa has been on the forefront of this monumental progress. It’s great to see her work recognized with these highly respected awards and honors she is receiving for all her victories inside and outside the ring this year. We are looking forward to a great 2019.”

“I am incredibly proud of Claressa Shields as a champion of boxing, women’s sports, and gender equality,” said Mark Taffet, Shields’ manager. “Her accomplishments in 2018 continued to break the barriers and glass ceilings previously in place. On Claressa’s broad shoulders inside and outside the ring, we will continue to make history in 2019. I can’t wait for the Shields vs Hammer superfight and Claressa’s consideration for the top pound for pound list regardless of gender.”

Two-Time Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis Defends Title Against Three-Division Champion Abner Mares

Two-Time Super Featherweight Champion Gervonta Davis Defends Title Against Three-Division Champion Abner Mares in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Main Event
Saturday, February 9

Presented by Premier Boxing Champions from StubHub Center (Soon to be Dignity Health Sports Park) in Carson, Calif., & Live on SHOWTIME®

Tickets on Sale Saturday, December 22!

CARSON, CALIF. (December 19, 2018) – Two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis will defend his WBA title against three-division world champion Abner Mares on Saturday, February 9 live on SHOWTIME in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.

Davis vs. Mares promises fireworks and high-stakes action as both men bring their fan-friendly styles to the ring. Davis, an unbeaten southpaw who earned his nickname “Tank” by powering through opponents, has thunder in both fists with 19 of his 20 fights ending in knockout. Mares, who has engaged in many memorable fights throughout his storied career, will be moving up in weight and looking to capture a world title in a fourth weight class.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with Ringstar Sports, go on sale Saturday, December 22 and can be purchased at AXS.com.

“This matchup is sure to make for a crowd pleaser, as both guys are known for delivering action when they step into the ring,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Mares has an impressive resume and is determined to hand Davis his first loss. Davis has made a lot of noise in the sport at a young age and isn’t slowing down. He executes impressively and continues to prove that he will be the next big star in boxing.”

“Abner Mares is looking to join a select group of boxers by winning a title in his fourth different weight class and carrying that kind of motivation into the ring is the thing that can propel a boxer to greatness,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “We’ve already seen the kind of speed and explosive punching power that Gervonta Davis brings into the ring. I expect that Mares will push him to even higher levels and that is the kind of match that should excite all boxing fans.”

“This is an intriguing matchup for both men at crucial points of their careers,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, SHOWTIME Sports. “Abner Mares has never backed down from a challenge, quietly building one of the strongest resumes in all of boxing while consistently delivering fight-of-the-year performances. In his first fight in the super featherweight division, Abner will be facing Gervonta Davis, one of the strongest, most talented and most exciting young champions in all of boxing. Abner seeks another signature upset in a remarkable career, while Gervonta looks to continue his streak of 11 straight stoppages against the most experienced and accomplished opponent he has faced to date. With these two come-forward, all-action fighters, boxing fans can expect another thrilling Showtime Championship Boxing main event.”

Davis (20-0, 19 KOs) became the youngest reigning American world champion in 2017 when he delivered a star-making performance on SHOWTIME by knocking out Jose Pedraza for the IBF 130-pound title at just 22 years old. He became the youngest two-time world champion in April when he knocked out Jesus Cuellar in the third round of their WBA Super Featherweight Championship bout. The 24-year-old from Baltimore, Md., has earned the reputation as a power-punching menace as he has stopped all but one of his professional opponents.

“I’m very excited to be showcased in my first main event in the United States on February 9,” said Davis. “I want to make a statement in this fight by putting on a tremendous performance against an experienced world champion like Abner Mares. I plan on showing everyone why I belong in pound-for-pound discussions and why I’m the most exciting champion in boxing today. You don’t want to miss it!”

The 33-year-old Mares (31-3-1, 15 KOs) will be moving up to 130 pounds as he aims to become just the fourth fighter born in Mexico to win titles in four divisions, joining Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales and Jorge Arce. Mares, who was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco and now lives in Montebello, Calif., was a member of the Mexican Olympic boxing team in the 2004 Athens Olympics before going on to win world titles at bantamweight, super bantamweight and featherweight. His two battles for the featherweight world title against Leo Santa Cruz epitomized the kinds of high-volume clashes that have set Mares apart from many of his contemporaries in the same weight classes. He lost a unanimous decision to Santa Cruz in his last fight in June and aims to tackle another weight class on February 9.

“I wanted this fight and I want this challenge against Gervonta Davis,” said Mares. “I’m preparing well and I will add my fifth world title in my fourth weight class on February 9 on SHOWTIME.”

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