LONG BEACH, CA (March 25, 2025) – Showtime Boxing Promotions regrets to announce that the highly anticipated heavyweight showdown between WBA #1 ranked contender Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (24-1-2, 17 KOs) and Christopher Lovejoy (20-1-1, 20 KOs), originally scheduled to headline April 19, 2025, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, has been cancelled due to contractual differences between fighters (Hunter & Lovejoy) and there promoter Don King.
While disappointed by the cancellation, Showtime Boxing Promotions extends its best wishes to Michael Hunter and Christopher Lovejoy as they navigate the next steps in their careers.
“Michael Hunter and Christopher Lovejoy are exceptional fighters, and we have great respect for the journeys they are on,” said Lenin Garcia, executive at Showtime Boxing Promotions. “We wish them both continued success in their careers and eagerly look forward to seeing them back in the ring. We also hope they are able to resolve any ongoing contractual matters with Mr. Don King so they can focus on their promising futures.”
With Hunter and Lovejoy no longer available, Showtime Boxing Promotions will now activate undefeated bantamweight Anthony Garnica (12-0-1, 7 KOs) of Oakland, CA, vs. Aston Palicte (28-7-1, 23 KOs) of Bago City, Philippines, as the 8-round main event. The co-main event will be announced on a later date.
“We know fans were looking forward to the showdown between Hunter and Lovejoy, and while we’re disappointed, the show must go on,” said Reyes Mejia of Showtime Boxing Promotions. “Garnica vs. Palicte will now serve as the main event and this fight won’t disappoint.”
Doors open at 5:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 6:30 pm PT. Tickets
priced $87.21 (GENERAL), $108.55 (RESERVED), $151.23 (PREMIUM), $193.92 (VIP), $236.60 (RINGSIDE), plus applicable fees, are available for purchase now at www.eventbrite.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810.
