Tag: Featured

TWO WORLD TITLE FIGHTS INCLUDING AMERICA’SYOUNGEST WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS FACING FRANCISCO FONSECA ANNOUNCED FOR MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD

TWO WORLD TITLE FIGHTS INCLUDING AMERICA’S

YOUNGEST WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS FACING FRANCISCO FONSECA ANNOUNCED FOR MAYWEATHER vs. McGREGOR SHOWTIME PPV® UNDERCARD

 

Badou Jack Challenges 175-Pound Champ Nathan Cleverly & Undefeated Andrew Tabiti Takes on Two-Time World Champion Steve Cunningham In Trio Of High-Stakes Matchups Preceding

Mayweather vs. McGregor Main Event

 

Saturday, Aug. 26 Live on SHOWTIME PPV at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

From T-Mobile Arena In Las Vegas

 

LAS VEGAS (August 10, 2017) – Two world championship fights including a title defense by America’s youngest world champion are part of the trio
of high stakes matchups on the Mayweather vs. McGregor SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, Aug. 26 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Mayweather Promotions.

 

The four-fight SHOWTIME PPV event, beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, is headlined by the unprecedented super welterweight matchup between boxing’s undefeated all-time great Floyd Mayweather and UFC superstar
Conor McGregor.  In the co-featured bout, undefeated rising star Gervonta “Tank” Davis
will make the second defense of his IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship against undefeated challenger
Francisco Fonseca as the 22-year-old looks to continue his reign as the youngest current champion from the U.S.

 

WBA Light Heavyweight Titlist
Nathan Cleverly will defend his title against former 168-pound world champion
Badou Jack “The Ripper”, who is stepping up in weight and into this world title tilt.

 

The pay-per-view telecast will open with undefeated rising cruiserweight contender
Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti taking ontwo-time world champion Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham
in a 10-round bout for the USBA cruiserweight title.

 

“What a night this will be for fight fans,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Not only will they witness a first of its kind main event, but they will also
see two incredible world title fights, as Mayweather Promotions’ very own current and former world champions go head-to-head in separate bouts. Gervonta Davis is nothing short of pure boxing talent with dynamite power.  Former super middleweight world champion
Badou Jack is making his light heavyweight debut, and looking to take the title away from a tough and experienced Nathan Cleverly.  But first, Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti will open the pay-per-view telecast with what I expect to be a magnificent performance.
 This diverse card is an epic, international affair stacked with talent.  Make sure you don’t miss the biggest event the sport has ever seen.”

 

“This undercard includes three meaningful matches featuring fighters we’ve seen develop over the years on SHOWTIME,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports.  “Gervonta
Davis has fast-tracked himself to stardom on this network, we’ve seen Badou Jack develop from prospect to champion, and we’re now witnessing similar growth with Andrew Tabiti.  We’re excited to watch them compete in tough, competitive matchups on this global
stage.”

Gervonta Davis vs. Francisco Fonseca – IBF Junior Lightweight World Championship

 

One of the fastest-rising young stars in
the sport, Davis (18-0, 17 KOs) became the youngest reigning champion from the U.S. when he knocked out Jose Pedraza in January to capture the IBF 130-pound crown. The 22-year-old made his first title
defense in style when he went to London and stopped Liam Walsh in May. Both bouts aired live on SHOWTIME.  Representing Baltimore, Davis won the 2012 National Golden Gloves championship and scored knockouts in his first eight fights after turning pro in 2013.
He enters this matchup on a streak of nine-straight fights that have ended with a knockout victory.

 

“I’m really excited to fight as the co-main event on the biggest card in combat sports history,” said Davis. “I plan to put on a great show for everyone in attendance in Las Vegas and for those who purchase
the PPV. I want to thank my team for this incredible opportunity. I’m ready for Floyd Mayweather to pass his torch to me. To my fans, I appreciate all of you. Support me and I’ll fight for you!”

 

Fighting out of San Ramon, Costa Rica, Fonseca (19-0-1, 13 KOs) has won 19 straight fights after turning pro with a majority draw in 2013. Fonseca quickly established himself as one of the top fighters from
his country with victory after victory, including a fourth-round knockout of Luis Gonzlaez to capture a regional 130-pound belt last August. The 23-year-old will make his U.S. debut when he faces Davis and he enters this contest having won his last five bouts
inside of the distance. Fonseca began his 2017 with a third round knockout of Eliecer Lanzas in March and is trained by two-time world champion Ivan Calderon.

 

“I am super grateful for this great opportunity,” said Fonseca. “The dream of every young boxer is to fight for the world title and this opportunity comes at the best moment
of my career and in the biggest in the history of this sport. I will beat Gervonta Davis and I will shock the world that night.” 

 

Nathan Cleverly vs. Badou Jack – WBA Light Heavyweight World Championship

 

A two-time world champion at light heavyweight, Cleverly (30-3, 16 KOs) bounced back from a defeat to Andrzej Fonfara in a 2015 Fight of the Year contender to defeat hometown champ Juergen Braehmer last October
to pick up his WBA title. Cleverly’s previous title reign saw him take down the likes of Tony Bellew, Nadjib Mohammedi, Shawn Hawk and Tommy Karpency before dropping a contest to Sergey Kovalev. The Wales resident will make his fourth start in the U.S., having
won two of his first three contests stateside.

 


“This is a fight I have wanted ever since Badou Jack moved to light heavyweight and I’m delighted to fight in Vegas on an event like this,” said Cleverly. “I’ve trained long
and hard for this fight and I’m ready to be let off the leash. This is the biggest fight of my career so far and I’m going to do a number on Badou Jack on August 26.”

 

Now fighting in the 175-pound division, Jack’s final fight at 168 pounds came in a title unification on SHOWTIME in January against James DeGale.  Jack (21-1-2, 12 KOs) shook off an early knockdown to floor
DeGale in the final round in a close majority draw in which both fighters retained their belts. The 2008 Olympian from Gambia won his world title in 2015 by defeating then unbeaten Anthony Dirrell and defended the belt against current champion George Groves
and former champion Lucian Bute. The 33-year-old is unbeaten in his last six bouts as he seeks a world title in a second weight class.

 

“I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m excited about getting another shot at a world title,” said Jack. “To be a part of this event and fighting on this card is historic. Nothing
beats it. I’m excited to get back in the ring. I’m getting ready to take that belt, and win a title in my second weight class. The biggest difference between past training camps and preparing for this fight is the fact that I was training to get the weight
down, now I’m training to build muscle and perfect my boxing strategy. This will be a tough fight, but I don’t see any issues getting through it. I feel confident and fans can expect a win by knockout or decision. He’s not leaving with that belt. It’s staying
right here in Las Vegas.”

 

Andrew Tabiti vs. Steve Cunningham – 10 Round Cruiserweight Bout

 

Originally from Chicago but fighting out of Las Vegas, Tabiti (14-0, 12 KOs) recorded victories against previously unbeaten fighters Keith Tapia and Quantis Graves in his last two outings – both on
ShoBox: The New Generation – as he works to solidify himself as a contender in the red hot cruiserweight division. The 27-year-old turned pro in 2013 after amassing a solid 32-6 amateur record and scored knockout victories in his first 10 fights. He’ll
battle his most experienced opponent to date when he faces the multiple-time champion Cunningham.

 

“I’ve always been dedicated when it comes to training and this camp has been no different,” said Tabiti. “I know I am fighting a veteran who has a lot of experience, so I can’t slack on my conditioning
and training. He’s tough and he’s only been stopped once and that was when he moved up in weight to heavyweight, so it would be a big statement for me to stop him. This fight is a test for me. Anytime you get in the ring you never really know how things will
pan out, but I have a great team. To the fans, expect a victory and a great fight on August 26th because I am going to make sure I come out on top.”

 

Representing the great fight city of Philadelphia, Cunningham
(29-8-1, 13 KOs) returned to action in March with a victory over Felipe Romero after an exciting challenge of cruiserweight champion Krzysztof
Glowacki in April 2016. Twice a world champion as a cruiserweight, he defeated Krzysztof Wlodarczyk in 2006 to capture his belt before successfully defending his title against Marco Huck via a twelfth-round TKO. He became a world champion again in 2010 when
he stopped Troy Ross in the fifth round. The experienced veteran also owns victories over previously unbeaten fighters Amir Mansour and Natu Visinia and scored a knockdown of Tyson Fury in a losing effort during their 2013 bout.

 

“This is one of the biggest cards of the decade and its mind blowing to be a part of it,” said Cunningham. “I have to top it off with a victory. Taking on a good, undefeated young prospect is a challenge in itself,
but a victory will prove age is just a number. Hard work is a part of my everyday life.”

Curtain Call- Microsoft Theater Showing of “Lomachenko” Is A Smash Hit

On Saturday night from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, Vasyl Lomachenko (9-1 7 KO) once again systematically broke down another opponent en route to retaining his WBO Junior Lightweight title. That’s three Hi-Tech adversaries in a row that have chosen to remain on their stool during the fight rather than to re-enter The Matrix.

This time around it was the tough as nails Miguel Marriaga (25-3 21 KO) who did not answer the bell. We can’t blame Marriaga, round after round he was subjected to the Ukrainian’s brilliance.

Lomachenko opened Round One studying the challenger but as usual, there was the beautiful footwork muscle memoried from years of dance lessons. Lomachenko landed a blistering left -right combination which would set the tone for the rest of the fight. The speed was going to be too much.

In the second, the champion began to land to the body while activating his jab like a piston in an engine. Marriaga did land a few solid punches in this round but that’s about all you will land because when you swing again, the target is gone.

The third was actually a closer round until Lomachenko dropped Marriaga in the last-minute. As Marriaga was moving back in retreat, Lomachenko landed a straight left dropping him; however, as it happens when a southpaw fights a conventional fighter, the entanglement of their feet may have contributed to the fall.

After Marriaga got up, Lomacheno purposely backed himself into the neutral corner and motioned Marriaga to come forward. Marriaga obliged Lomachenko and caught a few shots but also landed a few. Lomachenko did a bit of a dance then landed a few more punches as the round ended.

In the fourth, Lomachenko’s footwork was on full display with his trademark step over move. The effortless movement is the key to all that he does. He only need focus on landing his textbook variety of punches with head movement to dodge return fire as his feet subconsciously do the rest.

 

Later in the round, a clash of heads cuts the champion over the left eye. It bothers Lomachenko temporarily but between rounds his corner does a masterful job in making the wound a non-issue.

In watching Lomachenko’s fights, it appears that his game plan is to dissect the bout into thirds with each third more brutal than the last. He adds a new wrinkle in each segment if needed and is relentless in his attack.

Over the next three rounds Marriaga was systematically broken down. Lomachenko a scientist, setting up everything behind the jab, working the body, landing blistering combinations, and controlling it all with his movement.

In the seventh, Lomachenko landed a barrage of lethal hooks to the head and body resulting in another knockdown. Marriaga made it out of the round but his corner had seen enough and ended things with no argument from the Columbian.

After the fight, Lomachenko’s face, more so than Marriaga’s, showed the signs of battle. In his defense, the Marriaga head butt did most of the damage on the left eye but the challenger did hit him with some clean shots which created the welt by his right eye.

After the fight, Lomachenko knew that going forward he must tighten up his defense saying, “It was an interesting fight, I have more experience. I need training on my defense”.

Let’s face it, Lomachenko can win these fights without taking visible punishment if he chooses to do so. He can use his exceptional skills to score points, bank rounds and win a one-sided decision. There is nothing wrong with that for the purist of the bunch but for those who want the brutality of the sport this is not going to sit well. Lomachenko is aware of this and aims to please both groups which is evident by his performances.

Thing is, he’s willing to take a shot to give seven. He’s willing to engage his opponents in combat and has a mean streak that appears when it is needed.

Arguably the greatest amateur of all time, he still is only ten fights into his pro career. He’s already in the top pound for pound conversation and has been for a few fights now.

All you need to know about Lomachenko is that he has a desire to be the best and break from the conventional wisdom that a top P4P fighter only fights a few times a year.

Said Lomachenko in an ESPN interview “I’m ready to get in the ring every two to three months and fight the finest boxers in the world. I want my name to be evoked anytime the topic of boxing is brought up, for my name to be synonymous with boxing”

There’s been plenty of talk about a matchup with Guillermo Rigondeaux. Rest assured they’ll knuckleup soon enough. That said, I’d rather see Rigondeaux first face an opponent that Lomachenko has already defeated and that is Mr. Gary Russell Jr.  If Rigondeaux gets past Russell Jr. then start the talks…thing is, I’m not sure he gets by Russell Jr.

Mikey Garcia or Tank Davis? Great matchups and we’ll no doubt see an even better Lomachenko than we have seen already. Yes, that is possible, he’s only ten fight into his pro career and while he’s already been amazing he surely has not peaked.

It is unlikely that as the competition increases we will continue to see more versions of “no mas” but one thing’s for sure, when Lomachenko foes enter The Matrix, they only have two choices.

“You take the blue pill, the story ends. You wake up in  your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red  pill, you stay in wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole  goes.“―The Matrix

 

 

 

 

 

Malignaggi Leaves McGregor Camp 

After these photos hit social media of Paulie Malignaggi and Conor McGregor sparring, Malignaggi is leaving McGregor’s camp and will no longer assist in his preparation for Floyd Mayweather. Following the pictures is Malignaggi’s statement. 



Closed Circuit Tickets Available Now for Floyd Mayweather vs.Conor McGregor Showdown Saturday, Aug. 26

Closed Circuit Tickets Available Now for Floyd Mayweather vs.

Conor McGregor Showdown Saturday, Aug. 26

 

Closed Circuit Locations Available at MGM Resorts International Properties Along The Strip

 

LAS VEGAS (August 2, 2017) – Closed circuit tickets for the blockbuster summer matchup between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor are available ahead of the Saturday, Aug. 26 SHOWTIME PPV® event taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

 

Tickets for the Mayweather vs. McGregor closed circuit telecast at ARIA Resort & Casino, Bellagio Resort & Casino, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino,
The Mirage Hotel & Casino, Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Luxor Hotel and Casino and Excalibur Hotel & Casino are priced at $150, not including applicable fees and are now on sale. Party Packages including food & beverage options also are available at select viewing locations beginning at $99. To purchase closed circuit package tickets at ARIA, Bellagio and MGM Grand call 855-329-2260.
Tickets for all other locations may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, in-person at any MGM Resorts International Box Office or by phone with a major credit card at 1-800-745-3000.

Former World Champion Victor Ortiz Returns with Fourth Round TKO 

Former World Champion Victor Ortiz Returns with Fourth Round TKO Win Over Saul Corral in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions
on FS1 & FOX Deportes Sunday Afternoon 

from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California

 

Nathaniel Gallimore Drops Justin DeLoach Twice & 

Earns a TKO Victory After Five Rounds in Battle of 

Once-Beaten Super Welterweights

&

2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas Scores Sensational First Round Knockout of Mexico’s Eder Amaro Fajardo

 

Click
HERE for Photos from Ryan Hafey/

Premier Boxing Champions

 

BAKERSFIELD, CA.
(July 30, 2017) – Former world champion
Victor Ortiz (32-6-2, 25 KOs) made his ring return in style with a fourth round stoppage of
Saul Corral (23-10, 14 KOs) in their welterweight battle that headlined
Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Sunday afternoon from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California.

 

Fighting for the first time since April of last year, Ortiz was sharp from the start and attacked Corral with straight left hands and hooks. Corral was game and fired back uppercuts, but was too
often on the short end of their exchanges.

 

“Corral is a great fighter who hits hard and I definitely felt it,” said Ortiz. “Top of the line boxers like myself, we hang in there and we perform to the best of our abilities. It was my first
time back in a while and it’s just the beginning.”

 

Ortiz had success stalking Corral towards the ropes and unloading, focusing on delivering those powerful straight lefts and hooks. Corral tried to keep Ortiz at bay too often by holding onto his
left arm, and after multiple warnings from referee Jack Reiss, he was deducted a point in round three.

 

“There’s nothing easy about going up against a guy like Saul Corral,” said Ortiz. “We were better tonight. We worked hard and I’m thankful to my team for getting me ready.”

 

The southpaw Ortiz was again able to trap Corral against the ropes and midway through the fourth round he connected with the decisive left hand that sent Corral into a heap on the canvas. Corral
was able to get to his feet and briefly continue, but Ortiz quickly pounced and forced the referee to stop the bout 1:26 into the round.

 

“There are a lot of names out there in the welterweight division,” said Ortiz. “At this point I’m going to let my team guide me, because I’ll always be ready for anybody.”

 

Additional action featured once-beaten
Nathaniel Gallimore (19-1-1, 16 KOs) defeating Justin DeLoach (17-2, 9 KOs) by TKO after five rounds of super welterweight action.

 

Both men looked to implement their game plan in round one, with DeLoach throwing combinations off his jab, while Gallimore looked to close the distance and attack the body. Late in the first round,
Gallimore drew DeLoach in and got the better of an exchange of left hooks that sent DeLoach crashing to the canvas.

 

While DeLoach was able to hold on and survive the round, he was sent to the mat again late in round two from a series of powerful hooks. DeLoach was able to stop an oncoming Gallimore in his tracks
with a left hook right before the bell, but it was one of his last significant moments in the fight.

 

Gallimore continued to close off the distance and blasted DeLoach consistently with strong uppercuts, while DeLoach tried to stay busy, but simply lacked the power on his punches to slow Gallimore
down.

 

Late in round five, Gallimore connected with an overhand right that staggered DeLoach and followed it up with more effective uppercuts. DeLoach was again able to make it to the bell, but had endured
too much punishment and the bout was officially stopped after five rounds at the advice of the ringside physician.

 

The opening bout of the telecast saw 2016 U.S. Olympian
Karlos Balderas (2-0, 2 KOs) deliver a devastating knockout of Eder Amaro Fajardo
(3-4, 2 KOs) via a vicious body shot in the first round of their lightweight bout.

 

Balderas controlled the action, ripping right hooks to the body off of a strong jab as Fajardo attempted to return fire against the slick prospect. Balderas followed up a series of left hooks to
the head with a left to the liver that put Fajardo on the canvas for good at 1:36 into the first round

MIKEY GARCIA OUTPOINTS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENTSATURDAY 


MIKEY GARCIA OUTPOINTS ADRIEN BRONER BY UNANIMOUS DECISION IN SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT MAIN EVENT
SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

Jermall Charlo KO’s Jorge Sebastian Heiland in Four Rounds In SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Co-Feature

Catch The Replay Monday At 10:30 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME® 

Click HERE for
Photos; Credit Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

Click HERE for Photos: Credit Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

BROOKLYN (July 30, 2017) – Three-division world champion Mikey Garcia kept his undefeated record intact with a dominant 12-round performance against four division world champion Adrien Broner in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Saturday
on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

In what could be considered one of the best performances of his career, Garcia (37-0, 30 KO’s) won a unanimous decision by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice.

“We trained for 10 weeks, we had a great training camp and great sparring, we knew it was going to be a tough fight,” Garcia said.

Garcia took the lead early on, showcasing fundamentally sound technique and backing Broner into the ropes midway through the second frame. A flurry of body shots put Broner in trouble in the second round. While Broner was able to stay on his feet, Garcia emerged with another round in his favor.

“I think I controlled the fight in the early rounds and I kept the activity up,” Garcia said. “Broner is a great fighter and he has great skills but I was the superior fighter tonight.”

Garcia showed a combination of jabs, power punches and body shots all night long. He cornered Broner on the ropes with a huge left hook halfway through the third frame, and backed him in to the ropes again with 39 seconds remaining in the round.  While Broner showed some movement in the fourth round and hit Garcia with a succession of 1-2 combinations, Garcia’s bodywork kept Broner at bay.

“It was part of the strategy to be a little busier in this fight than in the fights I have previously had,” Garcia said.

Broner (33-3, 24 KOs) looked to get back in the fight as he started the eighth round with a succession of sharp combinations, however his lack of consistency couldn’t withstand Garcia’s phenomenal body shots and overall punch output. Through eight rounds, Garcia had thrown a total of 500 punches, while Broner had just thrown 291.

“It was a good fight at the end of the day, I come to fight I come to win and I put my heart on the line,” Broner said. “But
it was Tom & Jerry; I had to catch the mouse.”

Although Garcia had amassed an early lead from the first three-quarters of the fight, Broner continued to walk through heavy fire from Garcia in an attempt to connect with a big punch and change the tide of the fight. While he was able to ignite the crowd and land several big punches over the final three rounds, none of it proved to be enough to slow down Garcia.

“It was my timing, I’ve always said I have very good timing,” said Garcia. “It is underestimated when you are outside the ring but once you get inside the ring with me, I’m a step ahead.”

Undefeated Jermall Charlo (26-0, 20 KOs) made his debut at 160-pounds with a stoppage of Argentine contender
Jorge Sebastian Heiland (29-5-2, 16 KOs) in the co-featured event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. The stoppage came at 2:13 of the fourth round after Charlo delivered a devastating left hook followed by a big right to end the fight.

Charlo, of Houston, Texas, dominated the pace from the beginning. He landed the sharper and more accurate punches throughout the fight, especially in the first round where he landed 50 percent
of his power shots to Heiland’s 13 percent. Charlo’s straight right was his power weapon throughout the contest.

“I felt good at this weight. I was in good shape all camp,” said Charlo. “I just had to keep my composure in the ring. That’s always something I have to work on and I was able to do it.

“After I dropped him the first time they said he fell on top of his ankle. That’s just part of the boxing game. I had to just stay consistent and get the work done.”

Heiland, of Buenos Aires, Argentina, had issues with his left leg after injuring his knee in the first round. His discomfort was clear in his awkward footwork and lack of power behind his punches. Referee Benjy Esteves had the doctor examine him twice throughout the fight, once before the third round and then again before the fourth.

“I turned my left knee in the first round, but I did not want to give up,” said Heiland. “I tried to give it my all, but it was not my night. I had bad luck but I am going to work harder than ever to get back and get another opportunity to achieve my dream and win a world title.” 

Charlo stayed focused on his game plan despite seeing his opponent injured. “Sometimes the injury can be a decoy, you never want to just jump in and think it’s part of his game plan,” Charlo said.
“My coach told me to stay behind my jab like I did; continue to work and it’s going to come.”

With this win, Charlo becomes a mandatory challenger for the WBC Middleweight World Championship.

“I’m ready for anyone. I’m ready for whoever wants to fight me,” Charlo added. “Bring on the biggest names at 160. I’m the real Tommy Hearns. I feel it’s my turn and I’m going to go get it.”

Headlining the “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims,” heavyweight Jarrell Miller (19-0-1, 17 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y., stopped former world title challenger Gerald Washington (18-2-1, 12 KOs) after eight-rounds.

Miller used his significant size advantage and effective power-punching to break down the former collegiate football player. Washington had some success early with his jab and body attack, but was not able to stay out of punching range of Miller

Washington surged in the sixth round with a series of power shots that staggered Miller, however the Brooklynite countered and further broke down Washington, who landed just 20% of his jabs overall.

Miller, who landed almost half of his power punches, continued the onslaught in the seventh and eight rounds, and while Washington was able to stay on his feet, he took enough punishment that his corner called the fight after the eighth round.

“I definitely felt the ring rust,” said Miller, who was making his third appearance on SHOWTIME. “Gerald was very tough. It was a very good fight that had me thinking. My power was there, but
I couldn’t put it together the way I wanted to today.

“I took the hard way back coming in off of a layoff. Gerald definitely pushed me and motivated me. I had to rely on my brain and my power.

“I knew there would be a give and take in this fight. It’s one thing to fight when you have stamina, it’s another to fight when you’re tired. I was trying to outthink him.”

In the opening bout of “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” on Facebook Live, Irish sensation Katie Taylor (6-0, 4 KOs) stopped Jasmine Clarkson (4-9) after three rounds of action in the latter fighter’s U.S. debut.

The Olympic Gold medalist was dominant from the outset, stalking her opponent around the ring and consistently trapping her in the corner. Taylor was effective with both hands and did most of her work to the head of Clarkson. After three rounds of damage, Clarkson’s corner stopped the bout and gave Taylor her first stateside win as a pro.

“It was a fantastic experience being my first time competing here in the U.S,” said Taylor. “There were definitely some nerves before the fight. It was great to go in there and get a stoppage.

“I hope that I made some fans tonight. I loved hearing the Irish fans in the crowd. I hope that there will be even more next time I fight here. The more fights I have here in the U.S. the better.

“I thought I performed pretty well. I definitely got caught with a few silly shots. I could have been cleaner but overall it was a good performance. I felt good and strong. I’ll be ready to get back in there as soon as possible.”

Additional action saw former world champion Rau’shee Warren (15-2, 4 KOs) earn a unanimous decision victory over former champion McJoe Arroyo (17-2, 8 KOs) and became the mandatory challenger for the IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title.

Warren attacked the body throughout the bout and landed the cleaner, more effective punches over the 12-round contest. The judges concurred and gave him the decision by scores of 118-10 and 117-111 twice.

“I would give myself a B+ for that performance,” said Warren. “I wanted to make sure to use my jab and I felt like it really helped me win the fight. 

“I feel really good at this weight. Now it’s time for me to go get a strap. I haven’t been at this weight since the Olympics. I want to get these titles and then go down to 112 pounds for another title. First I want to take care of Jerwin Ancajas.” 

Saturday’s fights will replay on Sunday, July 30 at 8:35 a.m. ET on SHOWTIME and on Monday, July 31 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and SHOWTIME
ANYTIME®

Intriguing Matchups, Rising Stars, Debuts and Returns, All On Tap This Weekend

I am intrigued………

Mikey Garcia v. Adrien Broner

This will be Garcia’s (36-0 30 KO) first fight at 140 but I’m more intrigued by the matchup than his debut. Broner is a four-time world champion in four different weight classes, Garcia a three-time world champion in three weight classes.

Garcia and Broner (33-2 24 KO) should be boxing at its best. Two highly skilled warriors in a chess match, one looking for the other to make a mistake. I favor Broner’s speed and boxing here; however, he can be countered and that is the one area that Garcia will look to exploit.

In their last fights, Garcia dispatched the highly regarded Dejan Zlaticanin in three rounds, while an injured Broner (Hand injury in Round 1) won a split decision over the tough as nails Adrian Granados.

Broner had issues at 147 and has never lost at 140. Both men have good chins and can box or punch. If Broner comes in “About Boxing” and not “About Billions”, he can do the things that he does to control the fight. If not, Garcia will exploit his weaknesses to capture the win.

Prediction  I’ve liked what I have seen from Broner in his training and the build up, thus a very slight edge to Broner in this one.

 

Jarrell Miller v. Gerald Washington

Miller

Jarrell Miller- Photo Credit-Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

An interesting one here in the bigs. Miller (18-0-1 16 KO) is a tank but will give up the height and reach to the gargantuan Washington (18-1-1 12 KO). I favor Miller’s skill set and believe he can chop down the tree but he can be hit as evident in his matchup with the undersized Donovan Dennis.

The question is, can Washington, who was stopped by Deontay Wilder in February, exploit his advantages? Against Wilder, Washington won a few rounds and did some good work before being stopped but couldn’t sustain his effort. If he can stay committed to popping his jab in Miller’s face to set up some power, he can be successful. If he continues to make Miller reset his attack, he can decrease the chances of being caught by the charging Miller.

We know what we will get from the pugilist with the oxymoronic nickname (Big Baby). Miller will look to move forward at all times and knock Washington’s block off. He’ll need to navigate Washington’s length to be successful.

Prediction As the adage goes, a good big man beats a good little man; however, in this instance, Miller isn’t exactly little. I’ve not seen enough from Washington in his fights to be convinced here. Miller by stoppage.

Rising Stars- 

Katie Taylor  v. Jasmine Clarkson 

Taylor

Katie Taylor- Photo Credit- Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Taylor (5-0 3 KO) has plenty of intrigue surrounding her, will be fighting for the first time as a professional across the pond thus making her US debut, but we like her best as a rising star.

Taylor will face Clarkson (4-8) as she continues her rise in the sport. Taylor’s skill set is exceptional. She is a relentless come forward fighter who throws tight combinations, works the body, and has power in both hands.

We’re excited for women’s boxing and Taylor is a big reason why.

Prediction- Taylor by UD

 

Debut-

Jermall Charlo v. Jorge Sebastian Heiland 

Charlo

Jermall Charlo- Photo Credit-Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

Charlo (25-0 19 KO) moves up and makes his debut at 160 against Heiland (29-4-2 16 KO). Heiland does have a KO over Matthew Macklin on his resume and has stopped seven of eight opponents since 2013 but Charlo is unlike any opponent he has faced.

The Texas native is a relentless fighter with bad intentions. A junk yard dog that will hurt you if you make a mistake. If you chose to stay away from his assault, he will out box you while still looking for the fight ending blow.

Prediction- Charlo by stoppage.

Returns- 

Carl Frampton v. Andres Gutierrez

The Jackal is back and this time he is facing a Jaguar. After splitting fights with Leo Santa Cruz, Frampton (23-1 14 KO) is back to face Gutierrez (35-1-1 25 KO).

Gutierrez is no gimme, this kid can box and he can punch. Frampton excels when working on the inside which will be key here if Frampton looks to offset Gutierrez’s 5″ reach.

It will be interesting to see how Frampton will respond entering the ring his first time coming off of a loss. He will surely be energized by fighting again in his beloved Ireland, his first time fighting there since 2015.

Prediction- Gutierrez is going to give Frampton hell and may even drop him but the battle tested warrior will win a hard-fought decision. Frampton by MD.

Victor Ortiz v. Saul Corral 

ortiz

Victor Ortiz- Photo Credit Andre Turner II/Ringstar Sports

We’ve been here before with Oritz. He says all the right things, he’s learned, he’s back, he’s committed this time, etc… Again for this fight he has done the same. We’ll find out on Sunday.

Corral (25-9 16 KO) has been very active in 2017 as he was in 2016. This will be Corral’s tenth fight since the begining of 2016. He is 6-3 in those fights, losing to very good competition in Josesito Lopez, Sadam Ali, and Mike Alvarado.

On the other end of the spectrum is Ortiz. Issues outside of the ring and a desire to continue in the sport have seen Ortiz only fight seven times in six years. His was stopped in his last fight by Andre Berto in April of 2016.

Prediction-  There is a lot to be said about activity and inactivity in the ring. All the signs point to Ortiz here but we’ll go with the upset . Although Corral has lost when he steps up in competition, time looks to be different.

 

Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia Undercard Workout

Quotes & Photos

 

Premier Boxing Champions Event Headlined by

Broner vs. Garcia Saturday, July 29 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn & Live on SHOWTIME

 

Click
HERE for Photos from Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIME

 

Click
HERE for Photos from Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment

 

BROOKLYN (July 26, 2017) – Fighters competing on the Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia undercard this Saturday, July 29 at Barclays Center held an open-to-the-public media workout Wednesday at Modell’s Sporting Goods in Brooklyn before they enter the ring this weekend.

 

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast is headlined by a showdown between four-division world champion Adrien Broner and three-division world champion Mikey Garcia. Participating in Wednesday’s workout and kicking off televised action at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT are unbeaten former champion Jermall Charlo and top contender Jorge Sebastian Heiland, who meet in a middleweight world title eliminator.

 

Tickets to the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, start at $50 (not including applicable fees), are on sale now, 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.

 

Also in attendance Wednesday and competing in “SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Prelims” on Saturday are heavyweight contenders Gerald Washington and Jarrell Miller, plus Irish sensation Katie Taylor. These two fights will stream live on the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel beginning at 7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT.

 

Rounding out the group of fighters participating in the workout Wednesday and competing in undercard action Saturday night are unbeaten prospects
Noel Murphy from Ireland, 2016 Haitian Olympian Richardson Hitchins
and heavyweight George Arias.

 

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

 

JERMALL CHARLO

 

“I know that Jorge is a come forward kind of fighter. He’s going to try to put a lot of pressure on me. It’s my debut at 160 pounds so I get a chance to go up against someone who’s never been knocked out before and who has knocked out known fighters. I’m preparing for the best of him.

 

“I want to continue to move up to the bigger names, like I’ve been doing. Hopefully my performance in this fight will get me more notice from those big names and get me those fights.

 

“This is a new Jermall Charlo who’s better, bigger, faster and stronger. It’s my job to show everyone that on Saturday night.

 

“There are a lot of big fights at 160 pounds for me. I paid my dues at 154 pounds. I stuck around there so that I could climb up the ranks. The timing is perfect.

 

“My job is to go in there and do what I know how to do. Hopefully I can corner one of those big names soon. I’m not running from anyone. I’m here to fight the best in the world.

 

“The weight naturally comes off during camp, but now that I don’t have to stress as much for it, it feels like the way it always should have been.

 

“Me and my brother both have been through adversity and our time is now. I want to be one of the best fighters in the world and my job is to take care of this step right here.

 

“I love being here in New York. This is one of those dreams come true moments. I’ve always wanted to fight in New York.”

 

JORGE SEBASTIAN HEILAND

 

“I am so thankful for this opportunity to be on such a big card. I’m really happy with how welcoming everyone in New York has been. I couldn’t be happier or more focused on this fight. This is a crucial fight for me and I can’t wait until Saturday.

 

“The key for Jermall will be his speed. He’s a fast boxer but he’s jumping up a division. I’ve been at this weight almost my whole career. I know he will be prepared, so I have to be too. Without a doubt, it will be a battle.

 

“I’ve tried different methods of training to improve my punching power and I think it’s worked. The training has given me more strength and power in my punches.”

 

JARRELL MILLER

 

“I can’t wait to get in the ring in my hometown. There’s going to be great energy and great excitement on Saturday. I’m in killer mode right now but inside I’m jumping for joy.

 

“Gerald Washington is a good opponent for me coming back from a layoff. Most people wouldn’t go right into a fight so challenging. I’m warrior-built. I’ve been doing this for a long time.

 

“My main thing is to go in there and knock him out. However the knockout comes, it comes. This is boxing so anything can happen in there. Deontay Wilder is different than me. I’m going to show that on Saturday.

 

“I hope that I can get a fight with Deontay Wilder after this one. If he’ll come to New York, then even better. I think my progression is ahead of where he was. We’re going to keep fighting, getting knockouts and eventually a world title fight.

 

GERALD WASHINGTON

 

“I had a great training camp. We put in all the work and pushed ourselves. I stepped out of my comfort zone for this one. We’re ready to rock.

 

“I did a training camp with Wladimir Klitschko, which was amazing. I learned so much from watching him train. The focus that he has and the dedication that he shows is inspiring. It was a great experience to be there and soak it all up.

 

“I’m just looking to keep focused on Saturday. I’m going to fight hard from bell to bell to get the win.

 

“Miller is a big tough guy. We expect that from him. We’re in his backyard so I know he’s going to come in 100 percent. We’re here to handle business. All I’m thinking about is Jarrell Miller and taking him
out.”

 

KATIE TAYLOR

 

“We prepare for every fight like it’s a world title fight so I’m feeling fantastic heading into this one. It’s great to be on such a big card as well. I’m very excited for Saturday night.

 

“I’ve been based in Connecticut since my pro career started so I’ve settled in well and I’m feeling ready for the fight. It’s great to finally have an opportunity like this stateside.

 

“Since the fight was announced I’ve gotten a great reaction from the public. I think a lot of Irish people will be there for both me and Noel Murphy. It’s going to be a great crowd.

 

“I can be quite aggressive in the ring at times. I think my style is exciting. I’ve also been working on a few new things that I hope people will be impressed by as well. I’m looking forward to showcasing women’s boxing.

 

“Women’s boxing is on a high at the moment. There have been so many great pros recently and so many big fights being made. It’s only going to get bigger and bigger. I truly believe the best is yet to come for
women’s boxing.”

 

NOEL MURPHY

 

“I had another great training camp and I’m in excellent shape heading into the fight. This is my third fight at Barclays Center and they just get bigger and bigger each time. I can’t wait to get another win.

 

“I try to be clever with my work, while also being aggressive. I want to throw a lot of punches. I also have the ability to box and not get hit. Anyone who is seeing me for the first time will see an exciting style and enjoy the fight.

 

“It’s an honor to be on this card with Katie Taylor. She’s probably the greatest Irish athlete ever. Male or female. She’s the reason women’s boxing is in the Olympics. She’s a star in Ireland and I’m thrilled to be on the same card as her.

 

“I’m very thankful to the fans who have supported me and I’m going to make sure they enjoy Saturday night.”

 

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

 

“I’m preparing to put on a show on Saturday night. I always prepare to be at my best and treat every fight like a title fight.

 

“It feels great to have the support of my promoter Floyd Mayweather. I just want him to live up to his word and I’ll live up to mine. I’ve always believed that I’m going to be a world champion one day, and he’s going to help me make it happen. I believe I’m going to be a special star in boxing.

 

“I’m trying to build experience and step up as I go. I’ll step up when my team is ready. Whenever it is, I’ll be ready to go.”

 

GEORGE ARIAS

 

“I’m a fan-friendly fighter. I like putting on pressure and punching non-stop. I can switch it up to movement and boxing if I have to. You can see my past fights are very entertaining.

 

“I’m really excited for Saturday night. Training was really tough, as it should be. We did everything you’d want to get ready. It should be harder than the fight and it was. I had to train hard for the intensity of my style.

 

“I’m preparing for my opponent to be ready and hit hard. You always want to prepare for the best opponent possible. I’ll be ready for him.

 

“Fighting at home is going to be really great. It will probably be the biggest crowd I’ve ever fought in front of and I’m looking forward to celebrating with them after I win

Victor Ortiz Media Workout Quotes & Photos – Former World Champion Battles Mexico’s Saul Corral 

Victor Ortiz Media Workout Quotes & Photos

 

Former World Champion Battles Mexico’s Saul Corral in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 & FOX Deportes Sunday, July 30 from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California

 

Click HERE
for Photos from Andre Turner II/Ringstar Sports

 

VENTURA, CA.
(July 25, 2017) – Former world champion
Victor Ortiz held a media workout in Ventura, Calif. Wednesday as he prepares to return to the ring and battle Mexico’s
Saul Corral in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes Sunday, July 30 live from Rabobank Theater in Bakersfield, California.

 

Televised coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will feature super welterweight contender Justin DeLoach taking on once-beaten Nathaniel Gallimore in a 10-round showdown and 2016 U.S. Olympian
Karlos Balderas in his second pro fight.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports, are priced at $80, $45 and $30 and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.

 

Here is what Ortiz had to say Wednesday from the Knuckleheadz Boxing Gym:

 

VICTOR ORTIZ

 

“The hunger is definitely still there inside of me. When I became world champion, it was a short-lived experience. I had reached a high pinnacle and lost it in a fashion that I was never satisfied with. I’m blessed to be healthy enough to come back.

 

“Having my son be born (Victor Royal Ortiz) is probably part of the reason that this hunger grew inside of me and motivated me to get back in the ring. I have goals and accomplishments that I want
to reach.

 

“I know that Saul Corral will be ready for me. This is a camp where I made sure to listen to everything my coach said. I went to work 110 percent every day. I didn’t take any shortcuts and I’m feeling
great.

 

“I still feel like I can be one of the best in the 147-pound division. It’s there for the taking. There are some gifted fighters in there and I respect them, but I believe that I have what it takes to be right up there. I’m a complete fighter.

 

“I’ve been written off before. People have said I should retire since my first loss. I came back from that loss and became a champion. I don’t care what people have to say about me. I could go act full-time if I wanted, but I truly love this sport.

 

“When I took a step back, I realized that boxing has always been my true passion. I can’t walk away from something that I’m so gifted at and that I enjoy doing so much.

 

“I never get too worried about who is going to be in front of me on fight night. I just need there to be a ring. I’m excited to get back in there and get in the swing of things. I’m ready to fully pursue my goal of getting another world title.”