PBC on Showtime – Page 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE for Audio Recording

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

M. Browne
Same here.

B. Jack
We’ll see fight night.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets on Sale Saturday, December 22!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOUR-DIVISION WORLD CHAMPION ADRIEN BRONER MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Broner Battles Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao Saturday, January 19 on SHOWTIME PPV® from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

MIAMI (December 18, 2018) – Four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted a media workout at Miami Beach’s famed 5th Street Gym on Tuesday as he prepares to face Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion, for his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, January 19 from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

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

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

Cincinnati’s Broner, one of boxing’s most popular and colorful personalities, is training under the tutelage of Kevin Cunningham in nearby West Palm Beach, Fla.

Credit- Robby Illanes/SHOWTIME

Here is what Broner and Cunningham had to say Tuesday:

ADRIEN BRONER

“This fight is real important. This is a hell of a fight not only for me but for the sport. This is a fight that needed to happen for the sport and we are going to put on a hell of a show.

“I always knew that one day I would be having fights like this. Honestly I thought he [Pacquiao] would be done with boxing by now but I always knew I would have a fight of this magnitude on this platform, pay-per-view and all and now I’m here.

“I knew what to expect. I knew he [Kevin] was going to be real strict and I just came prepared. Ready to put it all in and put it all on the line.”

On what he does in his down time:
“I try to rest as much as possible. I’m training so much and training real hard. This will be my second workout of the day and then after this I have another workout at 8:30 p.m. so that will be the third workout for the day so you know all my off time I try to eat properly, stay hydrated and stay focused.”

On how it feels to train in a gym that hosted greats like Muhammad Ali:
“It’s lovely. I never knew this gym existed and this is my first time ever being here or ever hearing about this gym being legendary. Muhammad Ali paved the way for guys like me and Sugar Ray Leonard and everyone else so, its legendary.

“I always tell other fighters and other people it takes more to be a star than just boxing. I just have everything it takes to be a mega star.”

Credit- Robby Illanes/SHOWTIME

On Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse:
“I didn’t see it but I heard he looked good. I don’t know what to expect. I’m just training for the best Pacquiao. And I’m going to go out there and do what I have to do to get the victory.”

How do you feel training in South Florida?
“I’m not focused on the clubbing and stuff and all that stuff will be here after the fight. I’m 110 percent focused on this fight.”

What he will do after the Pacquiao Fight?
“Boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. My main focus is getting past Manny Pacquiao first and then we can talk about other things.”

On whether or not Pacquiao has a weakness:
“It’s not a mystery. He has seven losses. It’s not a mystery that he can lose but anyone can lose on any given day. It’s whoever prepares the best and I’m preparing myself to do what I need to do. I don’t care about stopping him or whether it’s a unanimous decision, as long as I’m victorious.”

On whether or not this is the biggest fight of his career:
“This is definitely my biggest fight, biggest magnitude, biggest platform I’ve ever been on but you never know. I could probably go in there and make this look like the easiest fight of my career you just never know.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM

“I think he’s having even a better camp than the last. He’s added a new strength and conditioning coach and everything is working out perfect and camp is going extremely well and smooth. AB’s looking fast and explosive. I have no complaints.

“Adrien’s got everything; he’s a real throwback fighter. He’s got speed, he’s got power, he’s got quickness, he’s got footwork. He can punch and he can bang and he can box. He’s got skills and he can be slick if he wants to be. So he’s the total package.

“We have an idea of the way the fight is going to go. We’ve studied tons of Pacquiao footage and he pretty much fights the same every fight. Manny’s a rhythm fighter so it’s all about getting in his rhythm. He pretty much does his thing. But outside of that I’ve never really seen him make too many adjustments. He’s pretty much the same guy.”

Two-Division Champion Badou Jack Battles Undefeated Top Contender Marcus Browne for WBA Interim 175-Pound Title On Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV®

Presented by Premier Boxing Champions Saturday, January 19 From the MGM Grand Garden Arena In Las Vegas

Plus! Former World Champion Rau’shee Warren Meets Unbeaten Nordine Oubaali for Vacant WBC Bantamweight Title & Unbeaten Featherweight Jhack Tepora Takes on
Former World Champion Hugo Ruiz

LAS VEGAS (December 17, 2018) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack will battle unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view undercard will also see former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship in a rematch of their 2012 Olympic matchup that was edged by Oubaali. In the opening bout of the four-fight PPV telecast, unbeaten Jhack Tepora will take on former world champion Hugo Ruiz in a 12-round featherweight clash.

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

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

“Not only will the fans witness a tremendous main event, they will get to enjoy three action-packed match-ups that will add another level to the pay-per-view portion of the card,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Both Jhack Tepora and Hugo Ruiz are looking to make a name for themselves in the stacked featherweight division, while Rau’shee Warren and Nordine Oubaali are in the prime of their careers and battling for the WBC title. Mayweather Promotions’ Badou Jack has made an exemplary statement for his career inside and outside of the ring and is focused on further strengthening his resume, while Marcus Browne is looking to showcase his talent on boxing’s biggest stage.”

Jack (22-1-3, 13 KOs) has fought twice at light heavyweight since relinquishing his super middleweight world title to campaign at 175 pounds. The 35-year-old, who was born in Stockholm, Sweden, represented his father’s Gambia in the 2008 Olympics and now lives in Las Vegas. Jack won the super middleweight world title with a majority decision against Anthony Dirrell in 2015 and successfully defended the title three times before he relinquished the belt following a hard-fought majority draw against James DeGale in one 2017’s best fights. In his first bout at 175 pounds, Jack stopped Nathan Cleverly to pick up the WBA light heavyweight title before fighting to a majority draw against Adonis Stevenson in his last fight on May 19.

“I’m looking forward to getting back onto another big stage to perform for my fans across the globe and prove I am one of the best fighters in the world,” said Jack. “I plan to show off my skills with a dominating performance on January 19. I always want to fight the best, and he’s the best that’s available right now. I’m always 100 percent ready and I’m going into this fight stronger, faster and with more experience than ever before.”

The 28-year-old Browne (22-0, 16 KOs) will be taking a step up to face an elite opponent when he battles Jack. A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team, Browne moved up the contender ladder in the 175-pound division with brute force and power, scoring three straight knockout victories against Thomas Williams, Jr., Sean Monaghan and Francy Ntetu. Browne, who was born and raised in Staten Island, N.Y., scored a unanimous decision victory over Lenin Castillo in his last fight on August 4.

“This is really an honor and a privilege to have an opportunity to showcase my talents on a big time pay-per-view card featuring Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner,” Browne said. “Badou Jack is a championship-caliber fighter and one of the toughest guys you can fight in the light heavyweight division. I’m ready for the step up in competition and focused on being a household name in the sport sooner rather than later.”

Warren (16-2, 4 KOs) is looking to return to the world championship ranks with a victory over Oubaali. The 31-year-old became the first three-time Olympic boxer from the U.S. when he qualified for consecutive Olympic teams in 2004, 2008 and 2012. His Olympic run came to an end against Oubaali when he lost a narrow 19-18 decision in the first round of the 2012 London Games. A southpaw from Cincinnati, Ohio, Warren won the WBA Bantamweight World Championship with a majority decision over Juan Carlos Payano in 2016 and lost the title the next year to Zhanat Zhakiyanov by split-decision.

“This fight means everything for me and it’s about to be the biggest moment of my career,” Warren said. “Not only am I fighting for the WBC belt, but it’s on pay-per-view. When I first won the title it was like winning the gold medal at the Olympics. After I lost the title, it made me much hungrier and I want to get it back even more. I fought this guy in the Olympics, so I’m fighting for revenge. This isn’t the Olympics. This is 12 rounds and I don’t think he’s fought anybody like me. I have no choice but to put it all on the line on January 19.”

The 32-year-old Oubaali (14-0, 11 KOs), an unbeaten southpaw from Lens, Pas-de-Calais, France, has knocked out his last five opponents. His most recent KO of Luis Melendez on April 17 moved Oubaali up the ranks to position him for a world title shot. Oubaali, who is the sixth of 18 children born in France to parents who are from Morocco, twice represented France at the Olympics, qualifying in 2008 and 2012 when he defeated Warren.

“Many people are waiting for this fight because it’s the second time we meet,” said Oubaali. “I beat Rau’shee Warren at the 2012 London Games in a great battle. In the meantime, Rau’shee captured a world championship and lost it. Right now, I’m the WBC No. 1 ranked bantamweight fighter in the world. It will be a great fight in Las Vegas on January 19 and I intend to beat Rau’shee again to become the new WBC world champion.”

The 25-year-old Tepora (22-0, 17 KOs) has steadily risen up the ranks since turning pro in 2012 and most recently captured the WBA interim featherweight crown with a ninth-round stoppage of Edivaldo Ortega in July. Representing Cebu City, Philippines, Tepora enters his U.S. debut on January 19 with stoppage wins in 11 of his last 12 contests.

“It has always been a dream to fight in the United States,” said Tepora. “I never dreamed that my first fight in the U.S. would be on a card with Senator Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner. I look forward to a tremendous fight on January 19 and defending my title versus former world champion Hugo Ruiz. As you all know the best rivalry in boxing is Filipino vs. Mexican. It’s going to be a great fight.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Ruiz (38-4, 33 KOs) will make his featherweight debut on January 19 after picking up two victories in 2018. The 30-year-old won a super bantamweight world title with a first round stoppage of Julio Ceja in 2016, avenging his previous loss to Ceja in one of 2015’s most exciting fights. He now seeks to position himself for a world title at 126 pounds with a victory against Tepora.

“I expect it to be a good fight because Tepora is undefeated and a good Filipino champion,” said Ruiz. “But I’m ready. I don’t think he can handle my power. I’m going to knock him out. I want to do my best to win the title. I’ve been watching videos of him and I’ve been training hard. I’m really focused on how to beat him. I’m still young, but I’ve got the experience to handle him in this fight.”

DEONTAY WILDER VS. TYSON FURY FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

(Featured Image Photo Credit- Esther Lin Showtime)

WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder & Lineal Champion Tyson Fury Erupt at Heated Press Conference for Blockbuster Heavyweight Showdown

Saturday, December 1 Live on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (November 28, 2018) – Undefeated heavyweight giants Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury erupted in Los Angeles on Wednesday at the final press conference for their WBC Heavyweight World Championship this Saturday, December 1 on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The 6-foot-7 Wilder and the 6-foot-9 Fury went back-and-forth with verbal haymakers before nearly coming to blows while posing for photos onstage. The unbeaten heavyweights will meet in just three days in the most significant heavyweight event in the U.S. in more than 15 years.

The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features unified 154-pound world champion Jarrett Hurd returning to take on Jason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz facing-off against Travis Kauffman and rising heavyweight Joe Joyce battling Joe Hanks.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.

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

DEONTAY WILDER

Photo Credit- Esther Lin Showtime

“This is going to be an amazing event. I’ve been so happy in my camp and in my life. Everything has come together. I’m just so happy to be here fighting at STAPLES Center and ready to bring the stars out for this special fight.

“I cannot wait for this fight. The time is coming. Only three days now. Can you feel the energy? The two best heavyweights in the world are right here. This is a moment that I’ve waited for my entire career. This is my time. Tyson Fury had his time.

“What I care about is showing people what I’m all about it. I’m showing you each and every time and I’m giving you a knockout. America has a mighty man in me. America has the baddest man on the planet.

“I put in the hard work to make it here. I’ve grinded and worked. There’s no way I’m going to let a man come from another country and take what I’ve been building.

“I don’t believe Fury has the confidence to come and beat me. His last opponent hit Fury with any shot he wanted. If he’s going to knock me out, why didn’t he knock out his last opponent? He doesn’t believe he can knock me out. When I say it, I believe it. My numbers don’t lie. I’m going to prove it again.

“It’s so beautiful to have two great giants in the ring. Two great guys with great stories. We will determine who is the best. You will get to see who is the best heavyweight in the world. One champion, one face and one name. That is what I’m seeking.

“I’m grateful for all the opponents I’ve faced. Every fighter has brought something to the table and made me bigger and bigger. I had to prove myself over and over again. I have to show everyone with my actions.

“This means everything to me. There are so many emotions running through my body. I’ve been ready for two weeks. We went through the process of camp so that we stayed sharp, but I’ve been ready. I’m a different breed in this sport.

“I’m going to show you domination. I’m going to show you my boxing skill. I’m going to beat him, then knock him out. He’s going to have to back up everything he’s said to promote this fight.”

TYSON FURY

Photo Credit- Esther Lin Showtime

“It is my anniversary today. It’s been three years since I went to Germany and beat Wladimir Klitschko all over Dusseldorf to becoming heavyweight champion. I’m only three days away from doing the same to the ‘Bronze Bomber’.

“We’ve had a fantastic training camp. We’ve put nine weeks in. I can’t remember a better training camp. We’ve had no injuries and fantastic sparring. I’m here to do a job and enjoy myself.

“I hope the boxing fans around the world are going to enjoy this as much as I will. I’ve looked forward to this fight since 2011. On Saturday night, I’m going to finally get my chance to punch him in the face. Deontay Wilder is getting knocked out.

“It’s been a long, hard road. I had many obstacles in the way. My absence from the ring has been well documented, but it’s made me stronger and more determined. I’ve never been as happy during a training camp as I was in this one.

“Having Freddie Roach on the team is fantastic. He’s helped us out a lot in the gym and I’m glad we have him on our side. I’m thrilled to have him.

“The fire in me has been lit again. Nothing in life was given to me. I’ve worked for everything I earned. I am the people’s champion and I am the man who gives the people hope. I’m not just fighting for myself. I’m fighting for the millions of people around the world who look to me for inspiration.

“I don’t need to beat Deontay Wilder to prove I’m the best. I’m the lineal champion. If Deontay wins, he will be the best, but he’s not going to beat me. I’m the best heavyweight alive, and there’s only one way to get that title. You have to come take it from me. There’s never been a man who could better me in a fight.

“Once I knew that I was going to box again, I knew that I would be heavyweight champion of the world again. I know that it’s destiny. I’m showing up on Saturday night, beating Wilder up and becoming WBC champion.”

JAY DEAS, Wilder’s Trainer

“These are two very big tall guys, who are also very athletic, and that’s not something you get to see very often. These aren’t bulky guys who are going to hug all night. These guys are coming to fight. It’s going to make it a very exciting night.

“Typically Deontay doesn’t fight people as tall as he is, but he always fights people heavier than himself. That’s never been an issue. As far as preparation, we felt that because of Fury’s athleticism, we were better off bringing guys who maybe weren’t as tall, but were very athletic. His prevailing attribute is the athleticism, more so than his height.

“It’s been great to see Deontay’s growth over the years. His boxing IQ and maturity level has come so far. He realizes he needs to do what is best for his body each and every day while still getting all of the work done. He’s so much healthier going through the progressions of camp than he ever used to be. He’s really on point with his health, nutrition and workouts. He knows himself so well.

“Deontay and I have been together since his very first day in a boxing gym. We’ve gone through this road together. We had to look up on the internet what someone has to do to make the Olympics. We just had no experience. We’ve been through it all. The ups and the downs. We’re proud to be here and in this position.”

BEN DAVISON, Fury’s Trainer

“These men are both so confident and have such high levels of self-belief, that they’re never willing to give an inch. If it was a race to tie their shoelaces, neither one would want to lose. When they get together, it’s just exciting.

“I knew that Tyson Fury was elite in every department, but he’s even stronger mentally than I imagined. He’s so confident and relaxed. Deontay will have to convince himself of things that are not true to build confidence. That’s the big difference.

“Freddie Roach is a genuinely great person who’s been very accommodating and helpful while we’ve trained in Southern California. You couldn’t have a better person in the corner than Freddie. He’s a legend in the game and we’re blessed to have him in the corner.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DIBella Entertainment

“There’s nothing like a great heavyweight title fight. As goes the division, so goes boxing. There aren’t truer words. I’ll put a great heavyweight fight against any sporting event you can go to in the world. Saturday night at STAPLES Center, we have a great one.

“We know that Tyson Fury deserves to be here and that he presents a threat. He’s a great champion who can box. He’s a champion for people who have had to overcome struggles. He’s back to looking better than I’ve ever seen him and he’s an inspiration to a lot of people.

“The man I’m lucky to be able to introduce is the best heavyweight in the world. This fight is happening because his team has worked tirelessly for years to get him this kind of opportunity. Finally, on Saturday night, there is a champion brave enough to get in the ring with Deontay Wilder and allow him to realize his dream.

“For years Deontay has been speaking to try to get this opportunity. He didn’t have an easy road growing up or getting into this sport. But he’s always believed in himself. He believes he has the strength to overcome all of those obstacles. On Saturday he’s going to receive his just reward.”

FRANK WARREN, President of Queensbury Promotions

“We’ve got a great fight coming up on Saturday. Team Fury has done a fantastic job getting Tyson Fury into tremendous shape. What’s so significant about this fight is that today is three years to the day when he became heavyweight champion by beating Wladimir Klitschko. He went into his opponent’s backyard and took the title and he intends to do the same on Saturday.

“To see where Tyson Fury is at today is a testament to to his character. He’s here as the lineal champion, undefeated in the ring and back to win his title on Saturday.

“He’s been a consummate professional in training and he has a formidable opponent with tremendous power. But if boxing was about who was the biggest puncher, you wouldn’t need judges. Styles will make this fight. Tyson has answered a lot of questions already and I know he’s in a great place mentally to finish the job.”

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

“Heavyweight boxing is back. SHOWTIME has done 13 heavyweight title fights in the last four years, including three this year. I can’t think of two guys I’d rather do a big heavyweight fight like this with than Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury.

“Both of these men have beaten the odds to make it here. Tyson Fury’s obstacles have been well-documented and he will again beat the odds on Saturday night just by making it into the ring.

“Who would have thought that when Deontay Wilder picked up gloves at 18-years-old, that he’d be the WBC Heavyweight Champion and headlining a pay-per-view at STAPLES Center, not bad for a kid from Tuscaloosa, Alabama. We’re excited about this fight and we’ll see you on Saturday night.”

HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER & LINEAL CHAMPION TYSON FURY THANK SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FIREFIGHTERS BY INVITING THEM TO SATURDAY’S WORLD TITLE FIGHT AT STAPLES CENTER

HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER & LINEAL CHAMPION TYSON FURY THANK SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FIREFIGHTERS BY INVITING THEM TO SATURDAY’S WORLD TITLE FIGHT AT STAPLES CENTER

(Wilder & L.A. Fire Department Chief Ralph Terrazas)
Credit- Esther Lin/Showtime

WILDER PRESENTS TICKETS TO LAFD FIRE CHIEF AT
ENGINE 3 HOUSE IN DOWNTOWN L.A.
&
FURY GIFTS TICKETS TO LA COUNTY FIRE CHIEF AT
L.A. COUNTY FIRE HEADQUARTERS

LOS ANGELES (November 27, 2018) – WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder and lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury presented tickets for this Saturday’s heavyweight title showdown to area first responders in recognition of the men and women who battled the recent fires in Southern California.

Before he meets Fury on SHOWTIME PPV®from STAPLES Center, Wilder delivered tickets for first responders alongside L.A. Fire Department Chief Ralph Terrazas at LAFD Station 3. Wilder spent time with the first responders and donned the firefighter uniform while conducting interviews.

“These men and women risk their lives each and every day,” said Wilder. “When the duty calls, they’re at the top of their game. I really respect the hard work that they do and I’m blessed to be here and be amongst so many brave people.

“I just really appreciate everyone here and I’m looking forward to seeing them at the fight on Saturday night. This donation is for all of the things that they do on a daily basis, and everything they do that people don’t see. They are always ready when the time comes. I know that the city and the state appreciates everything you do.”

“We’re very proud to host the champ here at LAFD Station 3,” said Chief Terrazas. “We wish you well and we look forward to celebrating with you on Saturday night. It’s very special that Deontay wanted to come here and recognize all the hard work that these men and women do.”

Fury, who spent his training camp Southern California, joined L.A. County Fire Chief Daryl Osby at the L.A. County Fire Department Headquarters to meet with first responders.

“These firefighters are heroes who have been out there every day saving lives,” said Fury. “Since I’ve been here I’ve been following the situation and the fantastic job these men and women have been doing. I’m glad to be here to tell them how thankful I am for what they do and help give them a break Saturday night.

“Training in California has really opened my eyes to see so many different cultures and so many different things that are going on here. There’s a lot of homeless people on the streets and when I go home I’m going to build homes for the homeless and set up funds for those in need. Being here has given me that extra push to do more.”

“We’re very thankful for these tickets and for the support shown today for our firefighters,” said Chief Osby. “They put their lives on the line to protect our citizens and our community and we’re happy that their efforts are acknowledged.”

(Fury & L.A. County Fire Chief Daryl Osby)
Credit- Esther Lin/Showtime

Boxing’s Best Heavyweights Past and Present Give Their Thoughts and Predictions On Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury

Boxing’s Best Heavyweights Past and Present Give Their Thoughts and Predictions On Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury Blockbuster as Fight Week Begins in
Los Angeles

Saturday, December 1 Live on SHOWTIME PPV® from STAPLES Center & Presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

LOS ANGELES (November 27, 2018) – As fight week in Los Angles kicks off, heavyweights of the past and present have spoken, and the majority believe Deontay Wilder’s pure punching power will be enough to defeat the highly-skilled Tyson Fury on Saturday, December 1 on SHOWTIME PPV®.

Some of the greatest heavyweight names in the history of boxing weighed-in on what will be the biggest heavyweight title fight in the U.S. since Mike Tyson took on Lennox Lewis in 2002. The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from STAPLES Center in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Here is what the current and former heavyweight greats had to say about the Wilder vs. Fury matchup:

MIKE TYSON:
“Although Wilder’s punch is strong, nothing can compare to the mental strength Fury has shown both in and out of the ring. It’ll be a close call, but I think Fury’s got a true fighting chance.”

EVANDER HOLYFIELD:
“It’s a great fight. Fury’s got a lot of skills, he’s awkward and he has long arms. He has good reflexes and is a strong counter-puncher. Deontay needs to be first and he can’t wait on Tyson. Tyson’s always been the bigger fighter. In fighting Deontay it’s the same case. If things get difficult, he’s (Fury) got more experience and a lot of tricks. I think with Deontay’s power, he might be able to end it early, but if Tyson can frustrate him and it goes the distance, then it could go his way.”

LENNOX LEWIS:
“If it goes the distance then it belongs to Tyson Fury. If it’s a short fight it will belong to Deontay Wilder. This is an epic and most-unpredictable showdown. I can’t wait for this fight.”

GEORGE FOREMAN:
“I am a big fan of Deontay Wilder and I was impressed with Tyson Fury and how he avoided the big shots against Wladimir Klitschko. I can see him going 12 rounds with Wilder because of his height and reach.

“The great thing about this fight is that we’re all talking about it. I think Wilder wins a close decision.”

RIDDICK BOWE:
“If Wilder comes out and means business then he should beat Fury with ease. My prediction is Wilder by knockout!”

GERRY COONEY:
“Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury is a very interesting fight. I love Tyson Fury. I think he’s a remarkable self-promoter, and he did a great job with Wladimir Klitschko, using his feints and throwing Klitschko off his game plan. Deontay is a different kind of fighter, though. Fury fights at 30 miles per hour. Deontay fights at 100 miles per hour. So, when Deontay catches Fury and gets ahold of him I think it’s going to be over. I admire Fury, but I think he’s barking up the wrong tree with this fight. I think the bottom line is that Deontay is a whole different type of beast. He comes in aggressive and finishes his opponents. I hate to pick, but somebody has to lose. I’m picking Deontay by knockout and I think it ends inside of four or five rounds.”

LUIS ORTIZ
“If Fury decides he wants to dip and dive and move, then he can extend the fight. But it’s all up to Wilder. If Fury decides he wants to come to the middle of the ring and fight, then it’s going to be over quick. Wilder is going to catch him. Prediction: Wilder by KO.”

CHRIS ARREOLA:
“I think Wilder fighting Ortiz and now Fury back-to-back gives the fans exciting fights. I like both Wilder and Fury, but for this fight I am leaning slightly toward Wilder to win.”

SPLIT-SITE DOUBLEHEADER FEATURING ADONIS STEVENSON AND JULIO CESAR CHAVEZ JR. KICKS OFF BIG NIGHT OF BOXING ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1

COUNTDOWN LIVE: WILDER VS. FURY Begins At 6:45 PM ET/3:45 PM PT Live On SHOWTIME® And SHOWTIME Sports® Social Media Platforms Preceding Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury SHOWTIME PPV® Event.

Massive Night Of Action Presented By Premier Boxing Champions

NEW YORK – November 9, 2018 – A split-site doubleheader airing live on SHOWTIME and streaming live on SHOWTIME Sports social media platforms will kick off a big night of boxing on Saturday, December 1, leading into the SHOWTIME PPV presentation of the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury heavyweight blockbuster event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Adonis Stevenson will make the 10th defense of his WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship against undefeated, mandatory challenger Oleksandr Gvozdyk to start the action live from Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Canada. The two-fight telecast presented by Premier Boxing Champions continues live from Los Angeles, where Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. will take on Alfredo Angulo in a 10-round super middleweight clash at STAPLES Center.

COUNTDOWN LIVE: WILDER VS. FURY will begin at 6:45 p.m. ET/3:45 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME and on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Facebook page, preceding the Wilder vs. Fury SHOWTIME PPV event that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from STAPLES Center.

The December 1 SHOWTIME PPV and COUNTDOWN LIVE presentations feature two of the most feared knockout punchers in the sport. With 39 knockouts in 40 professional fights, Wilder’s right hand is widely regarded as the biggest weapon in boxing. The southpaw Stevenson’s left has led to knockouts in six of his nine title defenses. On December 1, the two power-punchers will take on top-rated, undefeated opponents as they make the 10th and eighth defenses of their respective WBC titles.

Stevenson (29-1-1, 24 KOs) is boxing’s longest reigning world champion, having won the WBC 175-pound title in 2013. The Montreal-based southpaw will face his WBC-mandated challenger in Gvozdyk (15-0, 12 KOs), a Ukrainian with 12 knockouts in his 15 professional fights since a standout amateur career that included a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics.

In Gvozdyk, Stevenson will face his second consensus top-10 light heavyweight of 2018, following his Fight of the Year candidate draw with Badou Jack in May on SHOWTIME. Gvozdyk, an amateur teammate of fellow Ukrainians Vasyl Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk, earned the mandatory status with a near-shutout decision over Mehdi Amar in March.

“I’ve been pushing myself in training to be ready to put on a great performance December 1 and defend my title once again,” said Stevenson. “My old trainer, the late great Emanuel Steward, used to tell me that ‘knockouts sell’ and that’s what I’m going for in this fight. I know I’m facing a good boxer who’s coming in very determined. He’ll be ready, but it won’t be enough. It’s going to be show time on SHOWTIME and another victory for ‘Superman’.”

“I have been waiting for this title shot for a very long time, and I will take full advantage of the opportunity,” said Gvodzyk. “It doesn’t matter where we fight. I am fully prepared to become the new WBC light heavyweight champion. Canada, ‘The Nail’ is coming to put on a show!”

Chavez, Jr. (50-3-1, 32 KOs) is the son of Mexican boxing legend and Hall of Famer Julio Cesar Chavez, Sr. The 32-year-old from Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico ripped off 46 straight victories to start his career using a gritty boxing style that denoted his toughness in the ring. Chavez is seeking to rebound from a unanimous decision loss to middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez on May 6, 2017.

The 36-year-old Angulo (24-7, 20 KOs) is a tough brawler who has faced some of the best boxers in the sport. Angulo, who lives in Coachella, California but was born in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, is coming off a hard-fought split decision loss to former world champion Sergio Mora in April.

“I am excited to be back on December 1 to perform for the great Mexican fans in Los Angeles,” said Chavez Jr. “At my weight I know I can beat anyone. I am focused and feel strong. Angulo will be first, but then I will pursue a belt at 168. I’m putting the division on notice. Chavez is back.”

“I have been training very hard in anticipation of this fight and this is the best I have felt in a long time,” said Angulo. “I am looking forward to defeating Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and getting a title opportunity in the near future. I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me and I promise to surprise a lot of people on December 1.”

UNIFIED 154-POUND WORLD CHAMPION JARRETT HURD RETURNS ON 12/1

UNIFIED 154-POUND WORLD CHAMPION JARRETT HURD RETURNS ON DEONTAY WILDER vs. TYSON FURY SHOWTIME PPV® PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 FROM STAPLES CENTER

Heavyweight Contenders Luis Ortiz and Joe Joyce Compete In Separate Bouts and Look To Position Themselves For Title Shot In Resurgent Division

NEW YORK (November 9, 2018) – The most significant heavyweight event in the U.S. in more than 15 years will feature an undercard lineup of stellar fighters including the return of a unified world champion and two of boxing’s hardest-hitting heavyweights.

Undefeated, unified 154-pound world champion Jarrett Hurd along with heavyweight title contender Luis Ortiz and top heavyweight prospect Joe Joyce will fight in separate bouts on the SHOWTIME PPV® undercard of the Deontay Wilder vs. Luis Ortiz heavyweight blockbuster event presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, December 1 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Hurd (22-0, 15 KOs) returns for his first fight since unifying the super welterweight division earlier this year to defend his IBF and WBA titles against British Commonwealth champ Jason Welborn (24-6, 7 KOs). Hurd, who edged Erislandy Lara in a leading candidate for 2018 Fight of the Year in April on SHOWTIME, will enter the ring for the first time since undergoing rotator cuff surgery as he targets another title unification in 2019.

Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz (29-1, 25 KOs) will continue his quest for a second shot at a heavyweight world championship as he takes on American Travis Kauffman (32-2, 23 KOs) in a 10-round bout. Ortiz went toe-to-toe with Wilder in another contender for Fight of the Year in March on SHOWTIME and returns for his third bout of 2018 with his sights set on a rematch with Wilder.

In the opening bout of the SHOWTIME PPV, 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist and unbeaten heavyweight Joe Joyce (6-0, 6 KOs) will face his sixth opponent of 2018 when he meets Joe Hanks (23-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

“This fan-friendly undercard features two participants from 2018 Fight of the Year candidates, Jarrett Hurd and Luis Ortiz, along with one of the hottest rising talents in the heavyweight division,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Heavyweight boxing has re-captured the world’s attention and both of these potentially explosive fights will help shape the future of the division. Jarrett Hurd emerged as one of boxing’s most exciting fighters in unifying the super welterweight division in 2018. Now, he returns from a significant injury to risk his titles in his quest to become undisputed 154-pound world champion.”

Hurd, who hails from Accokeek, Md., floored Erislandy Lara in the final minute of their unification showdown to earn the narrow split-decision victory over the divisions’ longest-reigning champion. Following the bout, Hurd underwent surgery and subsequent rehab to repair a rotator cuff. Hurd won the IBF title with a TKO of Tony Harrison in 2017 and handed Austin Trout his first loss via knockout later that year. The 28-year-old is known for his all-action, fan-pleasing style that had seen him record seven straight stoppages prior to his decision win over Lara.

“‘Swift’ is back and Christmas is coming early,” said Hurd. “This is the perfect way to get ready for 2019. I expect it to be a big year with big fights that the fans will love. I’m locked in right now and ready to put on a great performance against Jason Welborn. Tune in on December 1, because I promise you it won’t go 12 rounds.”

Jason Welborn, from West Midlands, England, will make his U.S. debut on the heels of two wins over previously once-beaten Tommy Langford for the British middleweight title in 2018. Langford now moves back to the 154-pound class, where he has faced Matthew Macklin and Liam Smith in all-British encounters.

“Jarrett Hurd is a big talent who holds all the belts and I respect the challenge he poses,” said Welborn. “I was a huge underdog against Tommy Langford in May and I came through and shocked Britain. In December, I’m going to shock the world. I’ve been in training camp since my last fight and I’ve already been preparing for Hurd’s style. This is my time.”

The 39-year-old Ortiz returns to STAPLES Center for his second consecutive fight in Los Angeles after scoring a second-round knockout of Razvan Cojanu in July. In a March, Ortiz nearly had Wilder out on his feet in the seventh until he ultimately succumbed to Wilder’s power in the 10th round, suffering the first loss of his professional career. A consensus top-5 heavyweight, Ortiz will look for another knockout as he hopes to earn a rematch with Wilder in the revived heavyweight division.

“I feel blessed to be on the Wilder vs. Fury card and competing on a huge night of boxing in front of a full house,” said Ortiz. “In my last fight at STAPLES Center the fans showed me so much love and I can’t wait to be back. I know Travis Kauffman has a good record and I know he’s definitely got heart. If all goes as expected and Wilder puts Fury to sleep like I think he will, I want another shot at him ASAP. It will be an epic rematch between me and Wilder.”

Kauffman, of Reading, Penn., is coming off a majority decision over Scott Alexander in May in which the two heavyweights traded first round knockdowns. Kauffman is 14-1 (1 NC) in his last 16 fights with the sole loss coming to Amir Mansour in March 2017.

“I’m looking forward to stepping up and challenging myself in an exciting fight,” said Kauffman. “Luis Ortiz is the second best heavyweight in the world next to Deontay Wilder. But I’m the toughest fighter you’ll ever face. This is my chance to prove that I’m a great fighter and I’m excited to do it on this huge stage.”

The 6-foot-6 Joyce, of London, England, has started his professional career with a 100 percent KO rate after turning professional in 2017 at the age of 32. An accomplished amateur, Joyce claimed the super heavyweight silver medal for Great Britain at the 2016 Olympic Games. Joyce, who trains in Big Bear, Calif. under renowned trainer Abel Sanchez, made his U.S. debut in September with a fifth-round knockout of Iago Kiladze.

“It’s an honor to be part of this huge event and I give a lot of credit to Joe Hanks for stepping up and taking this fight,” said Joyce. “Hanks has a good record, but I am coming to take him out. If everything goes to plan and I come through this fight as I should, I am ready for a big fight early next year to show that I’m a force in this division.”

Hanks, of Newark, N.J., started his career with a 21-0 run before suffering consecutive losses to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2013 and Derric Rossy in 2014. After a three-and-a-half-year layoff following the loss to Rossy, Hanks, who lives in downtown Los Angeles, has recovered his form and returned to score a unanimous decision over Joel Caudle and a first round knockout of Terrence Marbra in consecutive fights.

“It feels good to be in the mix and getting exposure with the top heavyweights,” said Hanks. “I bring speed, athleticism and power to this fight. I’ve got a lot of great experience in my career sparring against guys like Deontay Wilder and Wladimir Klitschko, so I’m comfortable against a guy like Joe Joyce. I live in Los Angeles now and this is going to be like fighting in my front yard. I’m going to be feeling good on fight night.”

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