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Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Retains Title by Unanimous Decision Over Rafael Rivera

Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Retains Title by Unanimous Decision Over Rafael Rivera in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Photo Credits- Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

Former World Champion Omar Figueroa Remains Undefeated With Hard-Fought Decision Victory Against John Molina Jr.

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Sebastian Fundora Scores Third-Round Knockout of Donnie Marshall in Battle of Unbeatens

LOS ANGELES (February 16, 2019) – WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz (36-1-1, 19 KOs) retained his title in front of his hometown crowd by winning a unanimous decision over Rafael Rivera (26-3-2, 17 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

“I want to thank all the fans that came out tonight to support me,” said Santa Cruz. “I tried to do my best and do what I could to give them a great fight. I would have loved to have been even better, but he’s a really tough and solid opponent. I hit him hard to the body and head very well, but he didn’t go down.”

Santa Cruz got off to his usual fast start, throwing hard hooks to the body and mixing in uppercuts to try to keep his opponent at bay. When Rivera initiated the offense, Santa Cruz was able to counter with precision, snapping back the head of his opponent and oftentimes stopping in his tracks.

Rivera had some success with a counter left hook he threw as Santa Cruz threw his own, but was unable to put together enough offense to win early rounds. As the fight reached the middle rounds, Rivera began to try to smother Santa Cruz and negate his reach advantage, before trying to catch him with a big power shot. According to CompuBox, 252 of the combined 441 punches landed in the fight were done so in close range.

“I’m very happy with my performance and I thought I gave everyone a great fight,” said Rivera. “I was in there with one of the best fighters in the world and throwing punches and exchanging with him. More than anything, I’m very proud to have fought 12 rounds with a great world champion like Leo Santa Cruz.”

As Santa Cruz continued to control the pace of the fight, he began to use more of his boxing ability that his father and trainer, Jose Santa Cruz, who has been battling cancer, was encouraging him to exhibit.

“My father means the world to me,” said Santa Cruz. “When I step in the ring, I say that I don’t want to let my dad down. I want to keep him happy so he can keep fighting his cancer.”

Rivera continued to battle until the final bell, including a wild final 10 seconds of the final round that saw both men throwing an intense barrage of punches before the bout ended.

“People will know me better now and it was a great experience,” said Rivera. “I want to continue to push towards another world title opportunity. I want to be a world champion, but it didn’t happen tonight. I will continue to fight and show everyone what I can do.”

After 12 rounds, all three judges saw the fight in Santa Cruz’s favor by the score of 119-109. According to CompuBox, the 1,350 punches thrown by Santa Cruz were the second most of his career.

“I want to fight the best,” said Santa Cruz. “I want to fight any of the champions at featherweight or have a third fight with Carl Frampton. I want to be back this summer and fight three times this year against the best in the division.”

The co-main of the evening saw undefeated former champion Omar Figueroa (28-0-1, 19 KOs) earn a decision victory in a back and forth welterweight brawl against John Molina Jr. (30-8, 24 KOs) after 10 rounds of action.

“I thought it was a good fight,” said Figueroa. “We came out and did what we wanted to do. Unfortunately, I hurt my hand so I started to slow down a little bit after the third round. I know I could have hurt him if I really pressed the action, but I didn’t want to make the hand any worse.”

The action began early, with Figueroa showing his typical aggressive style, snapping sharp overhand rights and pushing Molina to the ropes. Molina was able to keep Figueroa at bay at times by using his jab to set up big power punches.

In round three Figueroa began to switch between southpaw and orthodox, landing several clean left hooks from the southpaw stance. But at the end of the round Molina landed perhaps the most significant punch of the fight, stopping Figueroa in his tracks with a clean overhand right.

Molina Figueroa undercard Santa Cruz Rivera Sean Michael Ham TGB Promotions Feb 16 19 2

Molina Figueroa undercard Santa Cruz Rivera Sean Michael Ham TGB Promotions Feb 16 19

The action continued into the second half of the fight, with Molina throwing more punches and Figueroa landing the higher percentage. After 10 rounds of action, the judges all gave the fight to Figueroa, with scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93.

“I thought I won comfortably and aside from some middle rounds I felt like I was in control,” said Figueroa. “He caught me with a wake up punch in the third round. I wanted to test his power because I had heard so much about it. He’s definitely strong and durable and when I hit him with hard shots, he withstood them.”

Molina threw 751 punches to 668 from Figueroa according to CompuBox, but it was Figueroa who ended up out landing Molina by a 241 to 159 punch margin. Figueroa also out landed Molina 10-4 and 11-1 in the final two rounds.

“I take my hat off to him,” said Molina. “He is a former world champion. I have been in there with a bunch of guys and he has a decent punch. I don’t want to say the weight was an excuse, but I know what it takes to be able to fight in a weight-based sport and work toward a certain goal.”

In the opening bout on FOX and FOX Deportes, six-foot-seven prospect Sebastian Fundora (12-0, 8 KOs) scored an impressive third-round knockout of previously undefeated Donnie Marshall (10-1, 6 KOs) in their super welterweight contest.

“I expected Marshall to go inside and attack the body, but he was trying to box,” said Fundora. “Once I figured out that he didn’t want to bring the fight, we brought it to him and it went our way.”

The southpaw Fundora began to break through in the second round, using a combination of straight left hands and uppercuts to stun his opponent. Marshall was able to land multiple strong straight right hands by countering the charging Fundora, but was not able to keep his opponent from coming forward.

Fundora Marshall undercard Santa Cruz Rivera Sean Michael Ham TGB Promotions Feb 16 19 2

Fundora Marshall undercard Santa Cruz Rivera Sean Michael Ham TGB Promotions Feb 16 19 4

Fundora Marshall undercard Santa Cruz Rivera Sean Michael Ham TGB Promotions Feb 16 19

“He was stronger than I thought he was and he’s a good boxer,” said Marshall. “I thought when I let my hands go I was doing pretty well, but he caught me with a couple good shots. His height wasn’t a problem because I was able to get inside and land, but he was able to land more than me.”

Early in round three, Fundora landed a sweeping left hook-uppercut combo that connected clean on Marshall and put him on the canvas. Marshall was able to get to his feet, but Fundora saw his opportunity and continued to land a barrage of uppercuts and straight lefts.

Referee Jerry Cantu jumped in to stop the bout at 1:08 of the third round. Fundora was the more effective and accurate puncher, landing 39 percent of his shots, to 26 percent from Marshall, according to CompuBox.

“I want to move up the rankings and get to the top five by the end of the year,” said Fundora. “Anything is possible though and maybe we’ll be fighting for a title by then. This division has a lot of excellent fighters. I’m going to be ready when the time is right.”

ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. MIKEY GARCIA LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

All Photos Credit- Frank Micelotta/FOX Sports

Unbeaten Welterweight World Champion Spence Battles Undefeated Four-Division World Champion Garcia In Historic Showdown On First Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View Event, Saturday, March 16 From AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Click HERE for FOX Sports Press Conference Video

LOS ANGELES (February 16, 2019) – Unbeaten welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr. and undefeated four-division champion Mikey Garcia previewed their upcoming showdown and faced-off live on FOX at a press conference in Los Angeles Saturday as they near their battle for pound-for-pound supremacy that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Spence and Garcia were joined on stage at the press conference by a living legend, Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, who won titles in five weight divisions and fought Sugar Ray Leonard in one of the most memorable welterweight fights in history.

The event also featured an interview via satellite with Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager Jerry Jones, who shared his thoughts on the electrifying event coming to AT&T Stadium, before Spence and Garcia were gifted personalize Cowboys jerseys by two Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.

Tickets for the March 16 event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Also in attendance at the press conference were undefeated former 168-pound champion David Benavidez and heavyweight fan-favorite Chris Arreola, who compete on the PBC on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View undercard as Benavidez battles veteran contender J’Leon Love, while Arreola matches up against unbeaten Jean Pierre Augustin.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Saturday from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“I train old school so I don’t worry about how Mikey is planning to get stronger at the weight. I’m not worried about it and I don’t think it will make a difference in the fight. I’m just going to focus on what I have to do to be at my best.

“Size always matters, but when you get in there, at the end of the day, it’s about skills and intelligence. I’m not going to rely on size. I’m going to focus on my talent. If I can roll through him, then I’ll show my killer instinct and try to get him out of there. I’m going to use my ability to break him down.

“At first I thought he was just chasing my name when he was calling me out. Once it became real, I saw how serious he was. At that point I was very confident it would happen.

“I’m not the bully here because Mikey really pushed for the fight. The other champions weren’t available at the time, plus Mikey is the only top fighter who called me out. I knew this was a fight I wanted.

“Mikey is undefeated, has a great skill set and has won a title at 140-pounds. I don’t see him as that small a fighter. He has a technical style that’s very traditional. He likes to use angles to set his opponent’s up.

“We’re focused on what I can do and what our game plan is. I always spar the same people no matter what because they get me into the condition I need to be in and they have me primed for any challenge.

“The welterweight division has always been one of the strongest divisions in the sport and it is like that now. We just need to fight each other. I’m ready to fight any of them. Whoever ends up on top from this group, will end being a Hall of Famer. That’s how you become an all-time great.

“This is something I’ve been waiting for my whole life. I’m focused and prepared for this challenge. It’s going to be all eyes on me and Mikey in that ring and I can’t wait.

“I’m happy that someone is challenging me. I’ve been looking for an opponent like him. He’s established himself in this sport. I’m happy to be able to take on this challenge. I’m looking for a skillful Mikey Garcia to bring the best out of me on March 16.

“My vision is that my hand will be raised in victory, whether it’s a knockout or a 12-round grueling fight, I’m preparing for the best Mikey Garcia skill wise, strength wise and as far as his ring intelligence.”

MIKEY GARCIA

Garcia Spence LA Press Conference Feb 16 2019 Frank Micelotta FOX Sports 7

Garcia Spence LA Press Conference Feb 16 2019 Frank Micelotta FOX Sports

“These are the kinds of challenges I want. I need someone like Errol Spence Jr., with his demeanor and style, to bring the best out of me. I want the world to finally see the full Mikey Garcia.

“The training that we did in the Bay Area definitely helped me. We are going up in weight and needed to do a different type of training. We wanted to make sure that we gained a little bit of mass so that I can be able to hold off Errol Spence’s weight and strength.

“The key to my strength training was that we didn’t want to lose my speed and explosiveness. I can see now that I’m back in sparring that I still have that speed while also gaining the muscle we had to.

“If people say Errol is bigger, that’s just obvious. But who’s faster? Who has better timing? There’s a lot more that goes into this sport and who’s going to win this particular fight.

“This has been one of the toughest camps I’ve ever had. We’re working on a lot of different methods and techniques to be at our very best. He’s going to be bigger than me on fight night, but that’s part of the challenge. I’ve know that since the beginning and that’s why we’ve trained the way we have.

“When I saw him fight Lamont Peterson I decided that Errol Spence Jr. was the fight I wanted one day. People tried to talk me out of it, but now they’re all on board. People have now started to see what I’m going to be capable of on March 16.

“I want the best Errol Spence Jr. I know he’s a great fighter with a lot of skills and talent. He hasn’t needed to use all of his skills, just like me. He does everything well, but nothing spectacular. I just feel like I’m the better fighter. I think I have the advantage everywhere except maybe power, but we’ll find out on fight night.

“This is history in the making. I’m trying to establish a great legacy. This is the kind of fight that I need. I know my fans are going to show up and give me a lot of support. This fight truly excites me and motivates.

“I’m not going to let this fight slip away. I’m going to establish myself as one of the best of the generation and eventually one of the best of all time.

“Even though some people believe I’m the underdog, I don’t see myself that way. I’m undefeated and I think Errol knows that I pose a challenge. It’s no easy task for either one of us. This is the fight that I need for my legacy.”

DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer

“This fight is all about the skillset, not the size. Size will come into play a little bit, but we’re going to show the skillset that we have to beat this guy. That’s what Errol is going to show.

“Mikey Garcia has a good technical style. But there’s always a method to take down a great fighter. I think that a day like today will inspire us even more to work even harder. We can see him right in front of us. Its real and we can’t wait.

“When I first saw Errol we were actually sparring each other. We started working together and I got to see him walk through guy after guy. We knew he was a great athlete, but it took time to build to where I started to realize he was something special.”

ROBERT GARCIA, Garcia’s Brother & Trainer

“This is a big challenge for us to go up in weight to fight the best welterweight in the world. But it’s not like its’ never been done before and I know Mikey has the skills and power to pull it off. That’s what we’re coming to Dallas to do.

“This is an opportunity for Mikey to continue building his legacy. He wants to be known as one of the greatest fighters of all time and a win over Errol Spence Jr. is a big step toward that.

“I don’t think they’ve overlooking Mikey. “They know the talent he has. They’re getting ready for a great fight like they’ve done before. I think they know that they’re in for a real fight.”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m back here in this stage and that’s all that matters. I’m living and learning. I can’t wait to be in position to again fight for the world title.

‘I actually sparred with J’Leon Love when I was 15-years-old. He’s a great fighter who’s a veteran. I’m not overlooking him. I’m training for this fight like it’s a world title fight. Whatever style he comes with, I’m going to be ready for it.

“I’m better than ever. Everything has been a lesson learned. I had to sit out while I lost my spot, so now I’m more motivated than ever. This year we’re leaving the past in the past and coming back stronger.”

CHRIS ARREOLA

“I’m excited to be back. It was a long layoff where I spent time with my son and watched him grow. I missed that feeling of being in front of fans and getting that nervous energy right before a fight.

“I’m anticipating and I’m hoping for a rowdy crowd on March 16. There will be a lot of Spence and Garcia fans and a whole lot of great fights. Us Mexicans, we love fights.

“I know that my opponent is a southpaw and he’s slick. He’s going to try to out box me. I know he’s not going to want to stay in my wheelhouse. I have to be in shape to go the distance and be ready for shots coming from different angles.”

JERRY JONES, Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager

On hosting Spence and Garcia at separate Cowboys home games last season:
“It was just good to rub elbows with champions. I want all that they have to rub off on me and the Dallas Cowboys.

“The fact that FOX is involved and their interest in this fight is amazing. We’ve had great events with FOX, including the Super Bowl. Our stadium was really built for boxing. These fighters will be standing 70 feet tall suspended above the ring on the video board. It’s an excellent way to feel like you’re so close you’re receiving the blows from these great fighters.

“We’re so excited for our Mexican-American fan base. This is a great area for boxing. We endear ourselves to be involved with an event like this in anyway the Cowboys can. Especially with two great fighters like Spence and Garcia.

“I think you’ll see a fight with outstanding champions involved on March 16. You don’t get to see the best against the best very often. At AT&T Stadium, you’ll see it in a way that can’t be matched at normal sports venues. The aura of having thousands of fans like at a football game is unmatched. It’s a grand experience and we’re proud to be a part of boxing.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“The winner of this fight will be pound-for-pound the best in the world. Everybody would agree both of these guys are near the top of that list, and I believe whoever wins will be number one. This is a coronation for who is today the king of the sport.

“Mikey Garcia is technically one of the best fighters in the world. Errol Spence Jr. is a strong, determined fighter who just wants to prove that he’s the best. This fight is a chance for both guys to prove they’re the best in the world.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is a true blockbuster event, worthy of this incredible press conference live on FOX. These two fighters are not only superstars of the sport, but the winner of this fight will be able to make the claim of being number one pound-for-pound.

“FOX and the Dallas Cowboys have given a tremendous amount of support to this event and we anticipate an unforgettable evening on March 16. Mikey Garcia is truly daring to be great against a fighter in Errol Spence Jr. who has established himself as the class of the 147-pound division.”

LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. RAFAEL RIVERA OFFICIAL WEIGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. RAFAEL RIVERA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. RAFAEL RIVERA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Headlined by Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Taking on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera This Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Feb 16 Santa Cruz Rivera Final Press COnfSean Michael Ham TGB Promotions 3

Feb 16 Santa Cruz Rivera Final Press COnfSean Michael Ham TGB Promotions 2

Feb 16 Santa Cruz Rivera Final Press COnfSean Michael Ham TGB Promotions

Photo Credits- Sean Michael Ham/TGB Promotions

LOS ANGELES (February 14, 0219) – There was no love lost on Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles as fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes exchanged words and went face-to-face at the final press conference before their respective showdowns this Saturday night at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live.

WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz will defend his title against Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event of the show. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature an exciting clash between contenders Omar Figueroa and John Molina Jr., plus unbeaten prospects Sebastian Fundora and Donnie Marshall going toe-to-toe.

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

The event also featured an appearance by former world champion and Southern California fan-favorite Fernando Vargas. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“We were getting ready for Miguel Flores, but in the gym you have to always be ready for any kind of style. We had been already been working with sparring partners who brawl, and that’s what we expect from Rafael Rivera.

“I knew immediately that Rivera was a good opponent. He’s young and hungry and that makes him dangerous. He can take punches, so we’re ready for 12 rounds. We’re going to be smart in this fight because we know what Rivera can do.

“Seeing my dad going through cancer treatment has been very tough. He motivates me to go to the gym and train hard, because I know if he sees me working hard, it will motivate him as well.

“I’m just looking to go out there, give a great fight and help my name continue to grow so that I can fight the best.

“I love fighting and training here in Los Angeles. It gives me a chance to be with my family more. When I have them here, it makes me train harder. I do all of this for them and their future.

“If I can get this win, we want to unify the belts or make the third fight against Carl Frampton. If not, we will go to 130 pounds and seek a title in a new weight class.”

RAFAEL RIVERA

“I’ve stepped in late before to a big fight. I’m always ready when it comes. Expect a surprise come Saturday night.

“I know that I have everything it takes to bring this title back to Tijuana. We’ve trained hard and had these last four weeks to focus in on breaking Leo down.

“I’m prepared for anything Leo brings into the ring. Everyone knows he’s very tough and throws a lot of punches, but I believe I am the faster fighter and I can hurt him with counters.

“This is the best opportunity I’ve had, going up against a great champion like Leo. I’m ready for fight and a great show for the fans.”

OMAR FIGUEROA

“Given our styles, there’s no way this is going to go the distance. I think this is going to be an early night and I’m planning on having my hand raised.

“The layoff didn’t affect me against Robert Guerrero, so I don’t see why it will affect me now. That’s why I keep my style consistent. The only difference is the character across from me in the ring. This fight will depend on how John wants it to go, because I’m coming to fight.

“I’m just looking to get in the ring and take advantage of this opportunity I’ve been given. I’ve made changes that have made my whole game so much easier. It’s a totally different mentality that I have now.

“Training camp went great. I’ve made a lot of changes in my lifestyle and I’m dedicated 100 percent to boxing. Things have never been better.”

JOHN MOLINA JR.

“It’s time to fight. The hard work is done and the time is now. Talk is cheap. On Saturday night, we’ll get down.

“I’ve been down this road before. I was never given lofty expectations. There’s no pressure here. I think Omar’s style will accommodate mine and make it a fun fight for the fans.

“Whenever I fight, it’s going to be exciting. You can say the same thing about Omar. I’m prepared for any version of Omar. Just like any other fight. I can’t wait until Saturday night to get in there and do what I do best.

“I’ve put everything into this camp, like I’m sure my opponent has. That’s what we owe to the fans and it’s going to come to fruition Saturday night.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I expect a good fight. He’s an undefeated fighter and I hope to give the fans a great show and walk away victorious.

“We’re totally focused on this fight. I just train and everything else is out of the way. I trained hard and I’m going to do my thing like always.

“I’m still growing as a fighter. We’re getting better with every camp and every fight. It’s good that we keep fighting quality opponents, because it helps accelerate that process.

“Hopefully we’re going to display a lot more boxing and technique in this fight. I think Marshall is going to come inside and attack the body. I think if I’m able to stop him, it will be from the boxing skills that I show.”

DONNIE MARSHALL

“I’m ready to dominate the fight like I always do. That’s the only thing on my mind. I don’t care about his height, record or anything else. I’m coming to dominate.

“I’ve never been concerned with the height of Fundora. We sparred with some good strong southpaws in Florida including Yamaguchi Falcao. Then we went to Las Vegas for the second half of training camp and worked with some top prospects. I’m more than prepared for anything.

“Every fight is a make or break fight. I’ve trained against top fighters and been all around the country in different gyms. I’ve only been pro two and a half years. I’m a young 30. I’m going to announce myself on Saturday in a big way.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports

“This weekend is another example why Los Angeles is such a great fight town. We’re going to have a fantastic crowd at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live on Saturday night. I think that speaks to the strength of this city as a boxing town, and the strength of this card. This is top to bottom one of the best cards I can remember here in Los Angeles.

“The tripleheader on FOX and FOX Deportes has three fights that want to steal the night. We will see which fight and which fighter everyone will be talking about after Saturday. There are definitely some fights on this card that have ‘Fight of the Year’ written all over them.

“We are committed to continuing to bring the best and biggest fights to the fans here in Los Angeles, because Los Angeles is the fight capital of the world again.”

Unbeaten Welterweight World Champion Errol Spence Jr. Battles Undefeated Four-Division World Champion Mikey Garcia In Historic Showdown

Unbeaten Welterweight World Champion Errol Spence Jr. Battles Undefeated Four-Division World Champion Mikey Garcia In Historic Showdown On First Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View Event, Saturday, March 16 From AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Tickets On Sale Now at SeatGeek.com

Blockbuster Event to Feature Unbeaten Former 168-Pound Champion David Benavidez, Undefeated Former Bantamweight Champion Luis Nery & Fan Favorite Chris Arreola In Separate Bouts on Four-Fight Pay-Per-View Card

ARLINGTON, TX. (February 14, 2019) – Unbeaten IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. defends his title against undefeated four-division champion Mikey Garcia in a highly anticipated and historic showdown for pound-for-pound supremacy that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The four-fight pay-per-view card will also see unbeaten former super middleweight world champion David Benavidez taking on veteran contender J’Leon Love in a 10-round showdown, undefeated former 118-pound champion Luis Nery battling former champion McJoe Arroyo in a 10-round attraction and fan-favorite Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola facing unbeaten Jean Pierre Augustin for 10-rounds of action.

Tickets for this showdown, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

Spence and Garcia will go face-to-face on Saturday, February 16 at a press conference in Los Angeles that will air live on FOX from the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT. The press conference is open to ticket holders for the Leo Santa Cruz vs. Rafael Rivera featherweight championship fight.

On Tuesday, February 19, Spence and Garcia will square off at a press conference from
AT&T Stadium where they will finally go toe-to-toe on March 16.

Garcia is stepping up two weight classes from his last fight to challenge Spence for the welterweight title in Spence’s backyard, not far from the Dallas suburb of DeSoto where Spence grew up a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan. Garcia will be fighting in Texas for the ninth time as a pro and figures to be buoyed by the large contingent of Mexican and Mexican-American fans that will be in attendance.

His task has historical parallels to the paths taken by great fighters like Shane Mosley, Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao, who all moved up multiple weight classes to challenge all-time great welterweights. Mosley and Pacquiao were both successful in moving up from lightweight to defeat Oscar De La Hoya, while Marquez’s rise to welterweight was halted in a decision loss to Floyd Mayweather.

Spence is a power-punching welterweight who has stopped his last 11 opponents heading into this intriguing matchup against the brilliant tactician that Garcia has established himself as. With a clash of two superb boxers in the prime of their careers and squarely in the top-five of the mythical pound-for-pound rankings, the winner can stake a claim as the best boxer in the sport today.

“Errol Spence Jr. vs. Mikey Garcia is a matchup of two highly-skilled and accomplished fighters in a true blockbuster showdown,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fans will get to see the hometown hero Spence against the Mexican-American superstar Garcia with huge contingents of fans uplifting them to put on a performance to match the moment. Combined with a jam-packed pay-per-view undercard of action fights, this has all the makings of a once-in-a-lifetime event.”

“Spence vs. Garcia is an event that transcends boxing and is a coronation that will crown the new ‘King of Boxing,'” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “In addition to the main event, fight fans will be treated to a spectacular night of boxing featuring three of the most exciting Mexican fighters in the sport in David Benavidez, Luis Nery and Chris Arreola. This is exactly what a pay-per-view card is and should be all about: entertainment and non-stop action from the first bell to the last!”

“We are proud to host a boxing match of this magnitude with Errol Spence Jr. and Mikey Garcia,” said Dallas Cowboys Owner, President and General Manager Jerry Jones. “AT&T Stadium was built to house the greatest sporting events on the planet, and we feel we have another incredible boxing event on the horizon with this matchup in our building on March 16.”

Spence (24-0, 21 KOs) is no stranger to big stadium events as he won the IBF title by traveling to England to take on then-champion Kell Brook at Bramhall Lane soccer stadium on May 27, 2017. In front of a raucous crowd of over 27,000 loyal Brook supporters, the 28-year-old Spence stopped Brook in round 11 to wrest away the title.

This will be Spence’s third defense of the title. After beating Brook, he successfully defended it with an eighth-round stoppage of two-division champion Lamont Peterson and then knocked out mandatory challenger Carlos Ocampo in the first round in his last fight at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, near his hometown of Desoto, Texas on June 16. Spence turned pro shortly after representing the U.S. at the 2012 London Olympics with much promise and rose to the championship ranks with wins over former champion Chris Algieri and veteran contenders Leonard Bundu, Alejandro Barrera and Chris van Heerden.

“I can’t wait for March 16th. It doesn’t get bigger than this,” said Spence. “Fighting at AT&T Stadium in my hometown is a dream come true. If I beat Mikey Garcia the way I plan on beating him, I will be the guy in the sport. This is my year and Mikey isn’t going to stop me. I am training like this is the biggest fight of my life and I want to put on a great show for the fans and win convincingly.”

Garcia (39-0, 30 KOs) is striving to put together a legendary career and is aggressively pursuing that goal. He has won world championships at featherweight, junior lightweight, lightweight and junior welterweight. He now eyes a welterweight title against the consensus class of the division in Spence. Fighting out of Moreno Valley, California, Garcia unified the IBF and WBC Lightweight World Championships in his last bout by scoring unanimous decision victory over Robert Easter, Jr. on July 28.

The 31-year-old first reached the championship ranks by blitzing through the featherweight and junior lightweight division, defeating Orlando Salido, Juan Manuel Lopez, Roman Martinez and Juan Carlos Burgos to establish himself as a star in the sport. Garcia has been on a fast track since ending a nearly 2-1/2-year hiatus with a knockout victory over Elios Rojas in 2016. After the victory over Rojas, Garcia scored a KO victory over Dejan Zlaticanin for the WBC lightweight championship in January 2017, before defeating four-division champion Adrien Broner in July and then captured a title at 140-pounds by dropping and defeating Sergey Lipinets last March.

“In my career I’ve always sought to fight the best in boxing and this fight against Errol Spence Jr. is just that,” said Garcia. “I want to be known as one of the all-time greats and what better way to do that than to win a welterweight title and become a five-division world champion. I have a tremendous amount of respect for Errol and what he’s accomplished, but I fully expect to leave the ring at AT&T Stadium with the welterweight world title. This is a match that I’ve been looking forward to for a long time and I plan on giving the fans a performance they’ll never forget.”

The 22-year-old Benavidez (20-0, 17 KOs) became the youngest fighter to ever win a super middleweight title in 2017 when he defeated Ronald Gavril at just 20-years-old. Fighting out of Phoenix, Benavidez’s older brother Jose is also a pro fighter who challenged Terrence Crawford last year. Benavidez most recently won a rematch against Gavril last February, and as WBC “Champion in Recess” he will look to reclaim his belt against the winner of the Anthony Dirrell vs. Avni Yildirim bout for the vacant title on February 23.

Born in Detroit but fighting out of Las Vegas, Love (24-2-1, 13 KOs) has long been amongst the top contenders at super middleweight and most recently lost a decision to Peter Quillin in August. The 31-year-old had been previously unbeaten in seven bouts heading into the contest against Quillin.

Currently riding a nine-fight knockout streak, Nery (28-0, 24 KOs) will look to get one step closer to a fight to regain a bantamweight title when he steps into the ring March 16. The 24-year-old from Tijuana, Mexico twice traveled to Japan and stopped Shinsuke Yamanaka in WBC title fights. In 2018 he stopped Jason Canoy and Renson Robles heading into his U.S. debut against Arroyo.

A 2008 Olympian for his home country of Puerto Rico, Arroyo (18-2. 8 KOs) captured a 115-pound championship with a technical decision over Arthur Villanueva in their 2015 clash. After dropping decisions against Rau’shee Warren and Jerwin Ancajas, the 33-year-old most recently defeated Sander Diaz last June.

An exciting brawler inside the ring, Arreola (37-5-1, 32 KOs) is well-known for challenging the best heavyweights in the sport throughout his career, and for becoming a popular attraction in and around his native Los Angeles for his fighting style and persona. The 37-year-old faced the likes of Vitali Klitschko, Tomasz Adamek, and Bermane Stiverne, before challenging Deontay Wilder for his title in 2016. After a brief retirement, Arreola returned to stop Maurenzo Smith last December.

Unbeaten and fighting out of Louisville, Augustin (17-0-1, 12 KOs) will face his toughest and most experienced test to date in Arreola. Born in Haiti, Augustin turned pro in 2014 and has steadily climbed up the heavyweight rankings.

For more information: visit http://www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and http://www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, http://www.facebook.com/foxsports & http://www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON FOX & FOX DEPORTES: LEO SANTA CRUZ VS. RAFAEL RIVERA MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

PBC on FOX & FOX Deportes Headlined by Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz Taking on Mexico’s Rafael Rivera This Saturday Night from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

Photos Credit- Luis Mejia/TGB Promotions

LOS ANGELES (February 13, 2019) – Fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event took part in a media workout Wednesday as they near their respective showdowns this Saturday night at Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

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

Wednesday’s workout featured Mexican contender Rafael Rivera, who will battle WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz in the main event.

Also working out Wednesday at City of Angels Boxing Club were unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa and hard-hitting John Molina Jr., who battle in super lightweight action, and unbeaten prospect Donnie Marshall, who faces fellow-unbeaten Sebastian Fundora in a super welterweight bout that kicks off televised coverage at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas was also in attendance, as he competes in a TV swing bout.

The fighters will go face-to-face at a press conference on Thursday that will feature former two-time world champion and Southern California favorite Fernando Vargas. Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

RAFAEL RIVERA

“When I got this opportunity, I didn’t think twice. I was training and ready and I wanted this challenge. I’m here to make the most of it.

“Like I always say to my fans, be ready for a great fight. I’m looking to make this very exciting and interesting. The belt is coming back with me to Tijuana.

“I never look for the knockout, but I’ve still been able to get them. I’m ready, so I hope he’s also ready to give the fans a great fight.

“This is a big challenge for me. I’m coming for that world title. I want to prove how good I am and become a world champion for my fans in Tijuana.

“I love to face the best fighters out there. Leo is a fighter who throws a lot of punches. We’ve seen it and we’ve studied it. But I don’t think he’s very fast. I’m faster than he is and I have to take advantage of that. I have to counter him when he comes in and do my job.”

OMAR FIGUEROA

“I’m looking to come back strong against Molina. My style is always to go in there for the knockout and give the fans a great show. The sooner we get him out of there, the better.

“We know that John Molina is a tough fighter. He’s been in there with some of the best in the world and he’s given them problems. We expect him to bring a great fight.

“We’ve seen Molina box before and make things difficult for certain fighters. I’m going to try to make the fight my style of fight and we’ll see if he obliges. Once he feels the power, he might choose to box.

“I don’t think this goes past six rounds. I’m confident about that. We’re going to be ready for anything Molina brings.

“I’ve been doing a lot of healing physically, mentally and spiritually. I’m looking to show on Saturday that I’ve got everything together.”

JOHN MOLINA JR.

“I feel excited and confident. Maybe overconfident, but I am ready. We did our job in the gym and now we are ready for the fight.

“I have to expect the best version of Omar Figueroa. He is a smart kid. I don’t know if he is trying to entice me into a war right away. I don’t know what his game plan is, but we will find out on Saturday.

“Fans need to tune in on FOX and FOX Deportes February 16. This is going to be a war and I believe we’re going to steal the show.

“This isn’t my first go around against a Joel Diaz-trained fighter. I did it before with Ruslan Provodnikov and now it is my job to beat Figueroa.

“I am not affected by being considered the underdog. Every one of my fights, fans make money. I think Provodnikov I was 11-1. When you become a veteran in the sport, you stop worrying about stuff like that. Talk is cheap.

“There is a lot at stake for me. I don’t feel pressure, but there is a lot at stake. Every fight of my career I have something to prove and Saturday is no different.”

DONNIE MARSHALL

“This is my first big opportunity and I’m ready to take full advantage. I’m going to show everybody where I’m at.

“I’m going to take it as it comes in the ring. We have a game plan, but I’m a creator in the ring. I create on the go. I’ll fit in where I can and go with the flow of the fight.

“The only challenge I see is his height. He’s obviously very tall at six-foot seven-inches. We know what we have to do to break him down. I don’t even really see the height as a challenge, because I spar with heavyweights all the time.

“I’m 10-0, but I only started boxing when I was 20, about 10 years ago. I don’t have the time like young prospects who want to play around, I want to fight any and everybody I can right now.”

KARLOS BALDERAS

“I feel excited and anxious to get back in the ring. I’m ready physically and mentally. I know that my opponent won’t be ready for the heat I’m going to throw at him.

“This year I’m looking to be busy. I want to be back in the ring in April if everything goes well on Saturday. After this fight I’m going to move to Los Angeles and add trainer Roberto Alcazar to my team. He’s had a lot of experience in big fights and I think he’s going to be a great help. I can really understand clearly what he’s trying to teach me.

“I’m going to show everyone that I’m the real deal once again. I’m going to prove why these fighters can’t make it through a fight with me. This year is all business for me.”

CLARESSA SHIELDS vs. CHRISTINA HAMMER UNDISPUTED WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SET FOR SATURDAY, APRIL 13

CLARESSA SHIELDS vs. CHRISTINA HAMMER UNDISPUTED WOMEN’S MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SET FOR SATURDAY, APRIL 13 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM BOARDWALK HALL IN ATLANTIC CITY

IBF, WBA And WBC Champion Shields To Meet WBO & WBC Champion In Recess Hammer In Arguably The Most Significant Women’s Boxing Event In History

Photo Credit: SHOWTIME

SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® Live At 9 p.m. ET/PT

NEW YORK – February 12, 2019 – Undefeated middleweight world champions Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer will meet on Saturday, April 13 live on SHOWTIME to crown the women’s undisputed 160-pound world champion. The blockbuster unification from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. will be the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION live at 9 p.m. ET/PT and is arguably the most significant women’s boxing event in history.

Shields vs. Hammer features two of the consensus top-10 pound-for-pound fighters in the world squaring off to crown only the second undisputed champion in female boxing history.The fight, originally scheduled for November 2018, was postponed due to a now-resolved medical issue suffered by Hammer.

The 23-year-old Shields (8-0, 2 KOs) is a two-division champion who holds the IBF, WBA and WBC 160-pound titles. The 28-year-old Hammer (24-0, 11 KOs) owns the WBO belt, is the WBC Champion in Recess, and has dominated the women’s middleweight division for more than eight years. Shields and Hammer fought on the same card last June on SHOWTIME, with both fighters winning impressively to set up the first undisputed showdown in the women’s 160-pound division.

The winner of Shields vs. Hammer will join Terrence Crawford, Jermain Taylor, Bernard Hopkins, Oleksandr Usyk and women’s welterweight Cecilia Braekhus as the only fighters to have unified all four major world titles in any weight class.

Shields vs. Hammer is promoted by Salita Promotions.Ticket prices and on-sale date will be announced next week by Boardwalk Hall.

“I always seek the biggest challenges and set the highest goals. I will be ready like never before and will defeat Christina Hammer on April 13,” said Shields. “Nothing will stop me from becoming undisputed champion and continuing my journey to carry women’s boxing to never-before-seen heights. I want to be the greatest of all time and change the game forever for all women in sports, and April 13 is an important step on that road to history.”

“I have waited a long time for this moment,” said Hammer. “I am bigger, stronger and more experienced than Claressa Shields. I am undefeated and have been a champion for over eight years. I can’t wait to show the world that I am the best and undisputed middleweight champion of the world.”

“SHOWTIME Sports has a long history of featuring the best in women’s combat sports, whether it was with Laila Ali and Christy Martin in boxing, or Gina Carano, Cris Cyborg and Ronda Rousey in MMA,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION. “More recently, since 2016 we have featured today’s elite with Claressa Shields, Christina Hammer, Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano appearing in an industry-leading 10 presentations of women’s boxing. Male or female, SHOWTIME has delivered the best fighters in their toughest matchups, and April 13 will be no different. We have two of the best pound-for-pound female fighters in the world facing each other with all four middleweight titles at stake. It doesn’t get much better than that.”

“The biggest women’s fight of all time is set to take place on April 13 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita.”Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer, both champions, both in their prime, are not only taking on the biggest challenge in their respective careers by meeting each other in the ring, but are breaking barriers for boxing and for women in sports. April 13 is destined to be an electric and historic night of boxing live on SHOWTIME.”

“Shields vs. Hammer is the biggest and most important fight in women’s boxing history – two undefeated unified champions in their prime battling for the undisputed middleweight championship of the world,” said Shields’ manager Mark Taffet. “Christina Hammer is indeed a very good fighter and champion, but Claressa Shields is once-in-a-lifetime. The same intense focus and determination that got Claressa through life, earned her two Olympic gold medals, and won her five world titles in eight pro fights will carry her to victory on April 13.”

“We are very excited to bring world-class championship boxing back to Atlantic City’s Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall,” said Matt Doherty, Executive Director of the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority. “This reinforces the CRDA’s commitment to attract world-class sporting events and increase visitors to our destination.”

Shields was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic gold medals. The Flint, Mich., native turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight. Shields moved down to middleweight for her June 22 headliner on SHOWTIME, defeating Hanna Gabriels to win the IBF and WBA titles and become a two-division champion in just her sixth professional contest. After Hammer was named WBC Champion in Recess due to her medical issue, Shields picked up the vacant WBC title last November with a unanimous decision over Hannah Rankin. She most recently defended all three titles in December against Femke Hermans.

Hammer, of Dortmund, Germany, has been the dominant force in the women’s middleweight division since winning the WBO title in 2010.Hammer became unified champion in 2016 with a unanimous decision over WBC titlist Kali Reis and made four defenses as unified champion. In her eight years as champion, Hammer has lost just a handful of rounds across 16 world title fights. Hammer, who also models professionally and was recently featured at Fashion Week in New York City, made her U.S. debut on June 22 after campaigning mostly in Germany since turning professional in 2009.After being forced to withdraw from the November unification due to the health issue, Hammer won a non-title fight via second round knockout last Saturday, February 9 in Germany.

The undercard for the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will be announced in the coming weeks.

Welterweight Champion Errol Spence Jr. & Four-Division Champion Mikey Garcia to Square Off at Unprecedented Live Press Conference on FOX

Welterweight Champion Errol Spence Jr. & Four-Division Champion Mikey Garcia to Square Off at Unprecedented Live Press Conference on FOX & FOX Deportes This Saturday, February 16 at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT from Microsoft Theater
at L.A. Live

Fighters to Preview Blockbuster Showdown During Nationally Televised Press Conference Leading up to Saturday, March 16 FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas

LOS ANGELES (February 11, 2019) – Unbeaten welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. and undefeated four-division champion Mikey Garcia will go face-to-face at a special FOX PBC PRESS CONFERENCE that will air live on FOX and FOX Deportes this Saturday, February 16 at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

“Errol Spence Jr. versus Mikey Garcia is one of the most intriguing fights of the year and having them face off before a live audience on network television is an unprecedented and unique way to build interest for this fight,” said Bill Wanger, EVP of Programming, Live Operations and Research, FOX Sports. “We’re excited to highlight these two undefeated fighters before they go toe-to-toe in the ring.”

“This is a historic occasion. I can’t recall the last time, if ever, in my 30 years in the sport when there has been a press conference live on broadcast television,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “It’s just further proof of the commitment that FOX has to the sport and the PBC boxers. It’s also a win for the fans who tune-in because they will get a sneak peek at what awaits when these two champions step into the ring at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on March 16.”

“Spence vs Garcia is a more than a fight. It is an event that will determine who is pound-for-pound the best fighter in the world,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “It is an event that transcends boxing. The legendary AT&T Stadium is the perfect host for this event, where two champions in the prime of their careers will put their records and their legacies on the line. On March 16, the world will be watching and witness one of the biggest events of our generation.”

The hour-long show on FOX will be hosted by Kate Abdo along with analysts Ray Mancini and newly crowned IBF World Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant. Kenny Albert hosts the press conference with fighters in the ring, while Jimmy Lennon Jr. introduces fighters. Heidi Androl serves as the reporter, adding interviews during the show. Spence and Garcia will preview their upcoming FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdown taking place Saturday, March 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Boxing fans can tune-in at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT for more PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes coverage as a three-fight broadcast kicks off from Microsoft Theater with WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz defending his title against Mexico’s Rafael Rivera in the main event.

Official Weights & Photos For Tomorrow Night’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Event – Gervonta Davis vs. Hugo Ruiz

Click Here For A Replay Of The Weigh-In

Photo Credits- Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. HUGO RUIZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

GERVONTA DAVIS VS. HUGO RUIZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

Super Featherweight Champion Davis Joined by Promoter Floyd Mayweather Ahead of Title Defense Against Former Champion Ruiz This Saturday Live on SHOWTIME®

From Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. and Presented By Premier Boxing Champions

Photo Credits-Dave Mandel/SHOWTIME

LOS ANGELES (February 7, 2019) – WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Gervonta Davis and former world champion Hugo Ruiz went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they go toe-to-toe this Saturday night in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, Calif. and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Also facing off on Thursday were fighters who will enter the ring live on SHOWTIME in televised undercard attractions. Undefeated super lightweight Mario Barrios will be facing Mexico’s Richard Zamora, while former world champion Javier Fortuna will step in against lightweight contender Sharif Bogere as part of live SHOWTIME action kicking off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing and tickets are sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Davis was joined on-stage by his promoter, legendary boxer and Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday at the Westin Los Angeles Airport before Saturday night’s event:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I’m so excited to come back strong in 2019. This is the year that could put me over the top and put me at the highest level.

“The opponent change didn’t really affect me. In the amateurs we fought four or five times a week so we always had different opponents. I had been sparring someone taller than me in training camp anyway. I think a fighter should be ready and able to adapt to anything that is in front of him in the ring. I’m ready and I hope Ruiz is too.

“Training camp has been great. I’m ready for Saturday night. We planned on fighting Abner Mares, but he had an injury and we hope to still get him down the line if everything is okay with his health.

“Hugo Ruiz is a great opponent. He’s going to come to fight on Saturday night. He’s been telling the media he’s going to knock me out, so I hope we get an action packed fight for the fans. I’m glad Ruiz is coming for the knockout. We owe it to the fans and I’m praying that he comes ready to give them a great show.

“I feel like I’m the fighter that can be the next big star. I’m working towards it. I’m just a kid soaking it all in right now. Saturday night, I hope everyone is ready, because it’s going to be action.

“Ruiz’s record speaks for itself. I’ve watched him and he has some pop. He’s accurate and I’m ready for it. I don’t think I’ll have any ring rust. I’ve worked with a lot of great fighters in the gym. I’m just excited to get back in the ring.

“I want to give my fans all over the world a great show. Everyone tuning in is going to see a great performance. Hopefully Hugo will live up to his word, because I’m going to live up to mine.”

HUGO RUIZ

“I’m very happy to have this opportunity. I’m going to leave everything in the ring. I have a lot of faith in my boxing skills. I trust and believe that there is going to be a new world champion on Saturday night.

“I’m in rhythm and in shape. I’ve been very active leading into and since my last fight. Davis is a tremendous champion, but he doesn’t intimidate me. I’ll be ready for him come Saturday night.

“This is a great opportunity to fight a southpaw, as I had originally been training for a lefty before my opponent changed in my last fight. I also fought a southpaw in November. I’ve been training with a lot of lefties for a while. I’m more than ready for this opportunity.

“Davis is a strong champion and I know this is a big opportunity for me to fight someone of his caliber. I’m ready mentally and physically for the greatest opportunity that has been given to me.

“At 130-pounds I feel more power than ever and I will demonstrate that on Saturday night. This is a big challenge for me. This is the opportunity that I’ve been waiting for throughout my 12-year career. I don’t plan on wasting it.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“This is a huge opportunity and I’m very excited for it. I’m looking forward to going out there and putting on a great show for the boxing fans.

“I’m ready and I’m prepared to take full advantage of this chance to make a statement on Saturday night. I want any one of the champions in this division, but I’m not looking past Zamora. I just know that the work that I put in will pay off.

“I have big things on the horizon and Zamora is in my way. I’m focused and ready to make this a great night. If he wants a war, I’ll give him a war.”

RICHARD ZAMORA

“I’m very happy and thankful to be in this fight. This is the opportunity I’ve been looking for. I’m ready to compete and I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by.

“This is definitely a big step for me in my U.S. debut. If I can get a win over Mario Barrios, then I would be able to reach a lot of dreams that I have.

“I come well prepared and I’m expecting a war. I’m going to be ready to go and battle until the end. You’ll see that I’m going to leave it all in the ring.”

JAVIER FORTUNA

“I’m going to give the best that I have in the ring. I’m going against a good boxer with a good record, but it doesn’t matter what obstacles are in front of me. I’m going to come through with a big win on Saturday night.

“We have a new team and a new trainer that is going to give the fans the best Javier Fortuna possible on Saturday.

“A victory against Sharif Bogere is very important for me and a stepping stone to where I want to get. It’s going to be a difficult fight, but I’m ready to make this a very tough night for him.”

SHARIF BOGERE

“We are going to make this a great fight on Saturday. Fortuna is a good fighter and tough guy. I expect him to bring a lot of fireworks. I’m prepared for it and I have the game plan to win.

“Every day is a tough test in life. This is going to be just another fight. I’m prepared and I have a great team behind me. I’m coming on Saturday night for what belongs to me.

“Fortuna has a big name and is a step up for me. This win will put me up there toward the top and I’ll be prepared for whatever challenge comes after that.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

“It’s great to be here with so many young talented fighters. I could remember 23 years ago when I was in that same position. When you’re in this position you have to take advantage of it. Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime. You must go out there and give it your all.

“I want to see these fighters become great and become stars. The records that I’ve set were made to be broken.

“I remember when Gervonta Davis first came to my gym. He worked hard and believed in himself. Sometimes we did two-a-days. If we didn’t think the job was done right, we’d come back and correct it. We continue to strive every day to be the best we possibly can be. Gervonta works extremely hard, but he can’t take anything for granted in this fight.

“I think Hugo Ruiz is more dangerous opponent than Abner Mares. Abner is a tremendous fighter, but Ruiz is very tough and he has good knockout power. This is a great matchup and the kind that people want to see. It’s all about putting on great shows and Saturday will be another blockbuster.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“We have a great event this Saturday night with great fights from top to bottom of this card. This is going to be a great night of boxing.

“Gervonta Davis has reached goals beyond just the boxing ring. I know the impact that Gervonta has on the youth all around the world. When it comes to excitement, explosiveness and knockout power, this is something new that the fans are getting a chance to witness.

“At the young age of 24, fans have come to know Gervonta for his punching power. But he’s also a very skilled boxer. This is one of the things that he’ll be able to showcase moving forward in a number of big fights he’s going to have.

“We know he has a tough challenge in front of him. Anytime you have a last minute replacement who’s an excellent fighter, it’s a big challenge. Ruiz is an aggressive fighter and we expect nothing but a great fight.

“Gervonta Davis has the full arsenal. In my opinion, he’s the most exciting fighter and the biggest puncher in the entire sport. It takes more than knockout power and I think you’ll see an array of his skillset.”

SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ, President of Sampson Boxing

“It really is an honor for me to be involved in this great show. These are going to be three great fights. Hugo Ruiz had been training for a southpaw before an opponent switch led to him fighting a right hander last fight. After a few more weeks leading into this fight, Ruiz is 100 percent ready for this challenge.

“Trust me, this is going to be a rough fight. I believe that Davis will have his hands full with Hugo Ruiz. Ruiz comes from a family of fighters and he is a true Mexican warrior who will leave it all in the ring on Saturday.”

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