Ben Whittaker stopped Braian Suarez in the opening round of their 10-round light heavyweight bout at the M&S Arena in Liverpool, England.

In round one, Whittaker landed a big right cross to the side of the head and Suarez was down for the count at 2:24.

Whiitaker, 182,14 lbs is now 11-0-1 with eight knockouts. Suarez, 182.1 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 21-5.

McCann Decisions Johnson

Molly McCann won an eight-round decision over Ashleigh Johnson in a super bantamweight fight,

McCann, 121.7 lbs of Liverpool won by a 78-74 score is now 4-0. Johnson, 120.15 lbs of Swansea, WAL is 3-4.

McGrail Stops Hayden in 5

Joe McGrail stopped Aaron Hayden in round five of a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

In round five, McGrail landed a left hook that caused a cut over the left eye of Hayden. Later in the round, McGaril landed a left to the Solar Plexus that sent Hayden down for the count and the fight was stopped at 2:22

McGrail, 121.14 lbs of Liverpool is 13-0 with six knockouts. Hayden, 1201.15 lbs of Rovtanstall, ENG is 10-1.

Atang Decisions Chvarkou

Leo Atang won a six-round decision over Viktar Chvarkou in a heavyweight fight.

In round four, Atang was deducted a point for hitting behind the head.

Atang, 238.1 lbs of York, ENG is 6-0. Chvarkou, 217.1 lbs of Kazakhstan is 6-33.

Ste Clarke had to get off the canvas but cruised to an eight-round decision over Luis Enrique Montelongo in a middleweight fight.

In round four, Montelongo dropped Power with an overhand right.

Clarke, 161.8 lbs of Liverpool won by a 78-73 score and is now 10-0. Montelongo, 160.10 lbs of Mexico City is 18-17.

Jack Power stopped veteran Novak Radulovic in round three of their six-round middleweight contest.

I round three, Power landed a right uppercut that stunned Radulovic. Power followed up with a flurry and the fight was stopped at 1:37.

Power, 161.7 lbs of Runcorn, ENG is 8-0 with two knockouts. Radulovic, 161.6 lbs of Serbia is 21-16-1.

Sam Norris won a four-round decision over Jahfieus Faure in a super featherweight bout.

Norris 132.8 lbs of Liverpool won by a 40-36 score and is now 3-0. Faure, 132.5 lbs of Oldbury, ENF is 4-24-3.

Tom Rafferty remained undefeated with a stoppage of over Pablo Sosa in a six-round super middleweight fight.

In round three, Rafferty dropped Sosa with a left hook to the body. After the round, Sosa had enough and the fight was halted.

Rafferty, 163.3 lbs of Shaw, ENG is 17-0 with seven knockouts. Sosa, 162 lbs of Spain is 12-11-3.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – April 17, 2026 – Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) MVPW-02 took place tonight at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden, streaming live on ESPN and the ESPN App, marking the promotion’s inaugural U.S. event for its global women’s boxing platform. The event delivered a stacked night of championship action, headlined by MVP’s unified super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (18-1, 7 KOs), who retained her WBA, WBO, and IBF world titles with a commanding performance over Bo Mi Re Shin (19-4-3, 10 KOs). In the co-main event, Lani “The Smiling Assassin” Daniels (12-4-2, 2 KOs) captured the IBF, WBO, and Ring super middleweight titles with a ninth-round TKO over MVP’s Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green (16-2, 11 KOs), becoming a three-division world champion. Additional standout performances included victories from MVP’s Nat “No Love” Dove (8-0-1, 2 KOs) vs. Maria “La Imparabla” Micheo (14-7, 8 KOs) on the main card and U.S. Olympian Jahmal Harvey (3-0, 2 KO) vs. Daniel Lugo (6-5, 2 KOs) in the preliminary card headliner, highlighting MVP’s growing roster of elite and rising talent.

At the press conference following the fights, the fighters had much to discuss. For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

ALYCIA BAUMGARDNER QUOTES

On her thoughts following her bout vs. Bo Mi Re Shin: 

When we talk about legacy, and we talk about development, these are the types of fights that I need to be in. These are the type of fights that really put my skills to the test and my mentality and my mental. Physically, I have it, but mentally, it’s another threshold to overcome. 

On her performance: 

I hope that you guys just saw the separation from my last performance in December to this performance. So, it was everything that I enjoyed.

On facing Katie Taylor:

I think when we talk about a Katie Taylor, we talk about someone who is just as skilled. I believe in my abilities, and I’m sure she believes in hers. But when we talk about high-level boxing, when it comes to women, she’s a perfect person to be in the ring with. 

On doing three-minute rounds:

I think when you understand what an extra minute does for my type of style, it allows me to take my time. It allows me to set up the punches and pick my punches. Punch placement is everything in boxing, and I have a really great IQ and timing. So, that’s why you have to be patient to get some of those shots in.

On knocking down Bo Mi Re Shin in the fourth round:

I definitely knocked her down. I did knock her down for sure. Go back and watch it.

On being asked if she will face Caroline Dubois:

When we talk about Alicia Baumgardner and her career and her trajectory on where she is going, we have to align her with the biggest fights. I’m at a stage where I’m at the biggest fights. Dubois is a great fighter. Yes, but she’s nowhere near where I am.

On making adjustments in the ring: 

I have a great team. They will tell me instructions, but ultimately I have to make that adjustment in the ring. 

On coming out with Lil Kim: 

It was everything. When we talk about women’s sports, when we talk about women’s movement, we talk about being a collective. I think it is so key and representation matters. And to be in a sport like boxing, to add the entertainment, to add the movie, to add just the excitement, you know, we have to think about how we set the bar. And Little Kim was perfect for New York.

JAHMAL HARVEY QUOTES

On Daniel Lugo’s performance:

He was taking some shots pretty well. I knew I had to start breaking him down. I started hitting the body a little bit more. 

On his engine during the bout: 

I’m always grateful for the rounds. It just shows that I got a high motor. 

On taking control of the bout: 

After the first two rounds, I knew I had to start slowing it down, slowing down the pace. He was starting to hold a lot. 

NAT DOVE QUOTES

On her performance vs. Maria Micheo: 

As a fighter in the ring, I think I did my part. I saw what I was landing, and I saw how she was reacting to that. 

On her plan during the bout:

I was trying to stick to the plan, stay sharp, and just box. 

On Maria Micheo’s pressure during the bout: 

Throughout the fight, it was rough on both ends. A lot of us are coming in, clashing heads, and I was trying to avoid getting headbutted as best as I could, but at the same time, she was putting a lot of pressure. 

MIKE LEANARDI (HEAD OF BOXING, MVP) QUOTES

On Shadia Green’s condition after her bout vs. Lani Daniels: 

Shadiasia is awake and talkative. It was a scary moment for all of us. She’s looking much better. We’ll keep everyone updated through socials. 

On MVP’s performance of the night bonuses:

We had two performance of the night bonuses. One is going to Lani Daniels, upsetting the card, and becoming the unified super middleweight champion. Heck of a performance by her. The other performance of the night bonus […] is going to Bo Mi Re Shin. Bo Mi came all the way from Korea and fought a tremendous fight.  

On Lani Daniels being taken to a local hospital after her bout vs. Shadasia Green:

Lani was taken to a local hospital just as a precaution. She has an 18-hour flight home, so they just want to make sure she is tip-top before she flies out tomorrow.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter-first ethos. Since its inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes nearly 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

Galal Yafai’s blockbuster, Unified WBC & WBA World Flyweight Title challenge against Ricardo Sandoval is the co-Main Event for Matchroom Boxing’s bumper Fight Night in Sheffield on Saturday, June 6 – live on DAZN.

Local favourite Dalton Smith headlines in the Main Event, defending his WBC World Super Lightweight Championship for the first time against mandatory opponent Alberto Puello at the Utilita Arena. 

Smith’s sensational stoppage victory over Subriel Matias in January saw him become one of Britain’s five reigning male World Champions in the sport.

And now Team GB’s Tokyo 2020 Olympics Gold Medal hero Yafai can etch his name into British boxing folklore by emulating Smith’s recent World Title heroics, should he dethrone the reigning 112lbs king Sandoval in the Steel City.

‘El Nino’ Sandoval (27-2, 18 KOs) captured the titles on a split decision in July 2025 in Japan when he overcame a fifth-round knockdown to defeat Kenshiro Teraji in Yokohama.

Yafai, meanwhile, returns to the ring for the first time since his controversial no-contest bout with Francisco Rodriguez Jr in Birmingham – and will be determined to firmly leave that memory in the past by defeating Sandoval in Sheffield.

Another major clash on the card is domestic rivals Josh Padley (18-1, 6 KOs) and Aqib Fiaz (14-1, 2 KOs) collide for the EBU Super Featherweight Title. 

Elsewhere, undefeated Ibraheem Sulaimaan (10-0, 5 KOs) challenges Ibrahim Nadim (16-1, 2 KOs) for the English Super Featherweight Championship – as fellow Birmingham native Aaron Bowen (7-1, 5 KOs) travels to Yorkshire for a Middleweight tear-up with Staffordshire’s Troy Coleman (15-4-1, 7 KOs).

Rising youngsters Adam Maca (5-0, 5 KOs) and Connor Mitchell (2-0, 1 KO) continue their professional journeys too with Dalton Smith’s Steel City Gym stablemates, Middleweight Chris Mulunda (2-0) and Featherweight Ed Hardy (6-0, 2 KOs), in action too.

“What an unbelievable card this is in Sheffield, live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN – and a real chance for the golden boy Galal Yafai to cement his legacy by winning the World Title”said Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn.

“Sandoval has built himself a reputation over the years as an underdog, fighting on the road. And Galal knows he will need to be at his very best to dethrone the Champion. But he is an elite, top operator and I truly believe that this is his time to rule the world, delivering on home soil.

“With Dalton Smith headlining, this will be a truly special night for British boxing fans – and this incredible card lights up what is already an unrivalled schedule for Matchroom Boxing.”

Alycia Baumgardner retained the IBF/WBA/WBO Junior Lightweight world titles with a 10-round unanimous decision over Bo Mi Re Shinn at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden.

It was a hard fought fight throughout with both fighters sitting down and throwing power shots. It was Baumgardner who showed more diversity by mixing in some boxing and landing the cleaner shots.

Baumgardner landed 263 of 681 punches. Shin was 161 of 654,

Baumgardner, 129.8 lbs of Dallas won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 18-1. Shin, 129.4 lbs of South Korea is 19-4-3.

Lani Daniels Shocks, Stops Shadasia Green; Wins Unified Super Middleweight Title

Lani Daniels won the IBF/WBO Super Middleweight titles with a ninth round stoppage over Shadasia Green.

Daniels was the quicker fighter from the get-go. The two had several nice exchanges, but it was Daniels who continuously beat Green to the punch. In round nine, Daniels battered a bloody Green on the ropes until the fight was stopped at 32 seconds.

Green struggled in the corner and was rushed out of the ring on a stretcher.

Daniels, 167.6 lbs of Pipiwai, NZ is 12-4-2 with two knockouts. Green, 168 lbs of Paterson, NJ is 16-2.

Rosado Decisions Reyes

Krystal Rosado won a eight-round unanimous decision over Fernanda Reyes in a bantamweight bout.

Rosado, 118 lbs of Carolina, PR won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 9-1. Reyes, 118 lbs of Mexico City is 8-1.

Dove Decisions Micheo

Nat Dove remained undefeated with a eight-round split decision over Maria Micheo in a flyweight out.

Dove landed 105 of 380 punches. Micheo, 111.6 lbs is 14-7.

Jahmal Harvey stopped Daniel Lugo in round five of their six-round lightweight bout.

Harvey dominated the fight until the bout was stopped at 1:32.

Harbey, 134.6 lbs of Oxon Hill, MD is 3-0 with two knockouts. Lugo, 135 lbs of Tucson, AZ is 6-5.

Alex Vargas won an eight-round unanimous decision over Rani Jalomo in a battle of undefeated welterweights,

The right eye of Vargas began to close in round eight.

Vargas, 144.2 lbs of Bellport, NY won by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 twice and is now 15-0, Jalomo, 141.8 lbs of Chicago is 7-1-1.

Elon De Jesus won an eight-round unanimous decision over Conor Adaway in a super bantamweight bout.

In round eight, De Jesus dropped Adaway with a left hook.

De Jesus landed 124 of 460 punches. Adaway was 112 of 460.

De Jesus, 121,4 lbs of Dunkirk, NY won by scores of 80-71 and 78-73 twice and now is 12-1-2. Adaway, 122 lbs of Plymouth, ENG is 10-3-1.

Luis Gjolena remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Robert Salinas in a six-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Gjolena dropped Salinas with a double left. In round two, Gjolena landed a huge left that put Salinas down on his back and the fight was stopped at 45 seconds.

Gjolena, 248.4 lbs of Bronx, NY is 8-0-1 with six knockouts. Salinas, 276.8 lbs of Santa Rosa, TX is 4-3-1.

Raquel Miller stayed undefeated and survived a knockdown to win a six-round unanimous decision over Adriana Araujo in a super middleweight fight.

In round two, Araujo dropped Miller with a counter left to the side of the head. In round three, Miller started to swell under her left eye.

Miller landed 63 of 285 punches. Araujo was 56 of 124.

Miller, 168.8 lbs of San Francisco won by scores of 58-55 and 57-56 twice and is now 14-0. Araujo, 169.2 lbs of Salvador, BRA is 6-4.

OCEANSIDE, CALIF. (April 17, 2026) – Facing off for the last time before colliding tomorrow night, all competitors from SD Fight Night: Family Business weighed in successfully today. After selling over 4,500 tickets, the venue has released an additional 500 seats, which are selling quickly at AXS.com.

San Diego natives and cousins Jonny Mansour (6-0, 2 KOs) and Julius “JuJu” Ballo (2-0) co-headline SD Fight Night: Family Business tomorrow, Saturday, April 18 at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, Calif. marking a major hometown showcase for several of San Diego’s rising boxing stars. Mansour, an undefeated lightweight who is a two-time National Golden Gloves champion and former top-ranked Team USA lightweight, faces William King (6-3-2, 3 KOs) out of Perris, CA. Meanwhile, Ballo, a 2024 Golden Gloves champion, takes on heavy-handed Roman Reyes (6-1, 5 KOs) in his toughest test yet, as both prospects look to continue their ascent on a shared stage.

SD Fight Night: Family Business will be distributed throughout North America by Integrated Sports Media via all major cable outlets and DISH in the United States, as well as leading digital platforms including Bash.tv, PPV.com, TrillerTV, and Fubo. The PPV telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, with the first bout of the evening at 5 p.m. PT.

“This fight means everything to me,” said Ballo. “It has been a great training camp. I’ve spent eight solid weeks training for this fight. I’ve put my blood, sweat and tears into not only this camp, but my whole boxing career. I’ve fought in Madison Square Garden and Hollywood, but Saturday night I’m fighting in front of my hometown for the first time, so this definitely is going to be a special night.

“To be headlining in my hometown after selling this many tickets is a dream come true,” said Mansour. “God is putting everything together for me, my team, my family, and I can’t wait to get in there and win Saturday night. Me and my cousin JuJu started G2G Promotions. We’ve got a great team behind us, but it’s not only about us. It’s about giving an opportunity to all the other fighters in San Diego, California. It’s a blessing and a dream come true.”

SD Fight Night: Family Business

Frontwave Arena, Oceanside, Calif. | Saturday, April 18, 2026

Lightweight Double-Main Event – 6 Rounds

 Julius “JuJu” Ballo (2-0) 132.2 lbs. vs. Roman Reyes (6-1, 5 KOs) 129.6

Lightweight Double-Main Event – 8 Rounds

 Jonny Mansour (6-0, 2 KOs) 134 vs. William King (6-3-2, 3 KOs) 133

Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Daniel Morales (8-0, 5 KOs) 138.8 vs. Alejandro Garcia Quintana (6-0-1, 5 KOs) 141.8

Super Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Angel Munoz (8-2, 6 KOs) 150.2 vs. Cruz Becerra Monteon (3-1, 1 KO) 150

Super Lightweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Angel Juan Estrada (12-1-1, 9 KOs) 141 vs. Pedro Angel Cruz (5-6, 3 KOs) 140.4

Super Bantamweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Richard Fernandez Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) 120.8 vs. Sugary Montales (6-2, 4 KOs) 122.2

Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Kyle Erwin (10-3, 5 KOs) 143.2 vs. Jose Marrufo (15-18-2, 2 KOs) 143.6

Bantamweight Bout – 6 Rounds

 Isaac Anguiano (10-1-1, 4 KOs) 116.4 vs. Jose Negrete (4-2, 4 KOs) 118

Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds

John Ornelas (5-2-1, 2 KOs) 142.6 vs. Brandon Mendoza (6-11, 6 KOs) 143.4

Lightweight Bout – 4 Rounds

Angel Ramirez (Pro Debut) 133.2 vs. Jose Sosa (1-0) 134

Welterweight Bout – 4 Rounds

 Franklin Garcia (1-0, 1 KO) 143 vs. Rahmel McKinley (1-2) 145

*Bouts Subject to Change

###

About G2G Promotions

Founded by professional boxers Julius Ballo and Jonny Mansour, G2G Promotions’ mission is to deliver electrifying, high-level boxing events that ignite passion for the sport and inspire fans of every generation. Driven by firsthand experience inside the ring, G2G Promotions is committed to elite talent, competitive match-ups, and unforgettable fight nights that capture the true spirit of boxing, keeping the sport’s tradition alive while elevating it through world-class entertainment. 

About Frontwave Arena

Frontwave Arena is the gateway to world-class sports and entertainment in North County San Diego. Located in Oceanside, California, the 7,500-capacity arena showcases the best and brightest names in music of all genres, headline comedy, family shows, and community events. In addition to the 16-time champion San Diego Sockers of the Major Arena Soccer League and the NBA G League San Diego Clippers, the venue hosts a growing roster of sports teams, tournaments, and athletic events. Frontwave Arena sets new standards for premium fan experiences with 16 luxury suites, VIP viewing decks, exclusive lounges, and an open-air patio. The arena’s expansive outdoor plaza hosts a wide variety of events, including private parties, performances, activities, and more.
 www.frontwavearena.com.

LAS VEGAS, NV – Top featherweight contender Ra’eese Aleem, a 34-year-old fighting out of Las Vegas, delivered a passionate and confident message during his recent appearance on Boxing Primetime, hosted by Andrew Bocanegra and co-host Brian Mendoza.

As he prepares for his IBF featherweight world title fight against reigning champion Angelo Leo, Aleem spoke candidly about his journey, his mindset, and the controversial loss that continues to fuel him.

The highly anticipated showdown is set for May 9th in Atlanta, where Aleem will challenge for the IBF featherweight world championship in what is shaping up to be a defining moment in his career.

Reflecting on his 2023 split-decision defeat to Sam Goodman in Australia, Aleem made it clear he still believes the outcome was unjust. The IBF eliminator remains a major source of motivation, with Aleem stating he was “robbed” while fighting on foreign soil.

That experience has sharpened his approach heading into May 9th.

Since that setback, Aleem has put together three strong victories that have reestablished him as a top contender in the division. In those performances, he showcased a more complete version of himself—combining relentless pressure with improved patience and ring IQ.

His win over Mikito Nakano in a final eliminator bout proved his ability to perform under high stakes, as he controlled the action and secured his place back in title contention. Against Rudy Garcia, Aleem demonstrated his toughness and consistency, breaking his opponent down over the course of the fight. He followed that with another solid performance against Derlyn Hernandez-Gerarldo, where his experience and work rate were key in earning a decisive victory.

Across all three fights, Aleem displayed durability, conditioning, and a willingness to adapt—traits that have made him a dangerous opponent heading into this championship opportunity.

Rather than leaving anything to the judges this time, Aleem emphasized his intent to take control and make a statement on fight night. His confidence was unmistakable as he addressed his upcoming title opportunity.

“You will be dethroned,” Aleem stated.

Throughout the Boxing Primetime interview, Bocanegra and Mendoza guided a conversation that highlighted Aleem’s mindset—focused, motivated, and confident. While he acknowledged the challenge ahead, his belief remains firm.

“Angelo Leo is a great fighter,” Aleem said, while doubling down on his expectation of victory.

The full Boxing Primetime interview featuring Ra’eese Aleem can be viewed here:

With the spotlight set for Atlanta on May 9th, Ra’eese Aleem is entering the biggest fight of his career with momentum, determination, and one clear objective—to leave as the new IBF featherweight world champion.

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 17, 2026) – Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez will challenge Antonio Vargas for the WBC World Bantamweight title at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday June 13, exclusively live worldwide on DAZN.

Rodriguez (23-0 16 KOs) is gunning to become a three-weight World champion in

Arizona and does so in a venue that holds happy memories for the Texas star, with Bam unifying the Flyweight division with a stunning stoppage win over Sunny Edwards in December 2023. The 26 year old had already enjoyed huge success in the state, with his first World title win coming at the Footprint Center in Phoenix in February 2022 when he defeated Carlos Cuadras to become Super-Flyweight king and returned to the same venue in June 2024 to stop Juan Francisco Estrada to become the WBC and The Ring champion at Super-Flyweight.

That win over Estrada was the first of a run of four big wins inside the distance for Bam, destroying Pedro Guevara in Philadelphia to retain the WBC and The Ring titles in November 2024, then stopping Phumelele Cafu in Frisco, Texas in July to add the South African’s WBO title to his collection, before claiming another strap at 115lbs in Saudi Arabia in November with another spectacular win over WBA champion Fernando Martinez.

Vargas (19-1-1 11 KOs) is the man standing in the way of Bam’s quest for more history in the desert, and the 29 year old can catapult himself into the elite if he can become the first man to beat Bam.

The Florida-based Texan has been elevated to full WBA champion for the second time, having previously landed the interim title in December 2024 against Winston Guererra in Florida and being elevated before defending the strap in Japan against Daigo Higa in July, with their back-and-forth humdinger ending in a draw. Vargas became champion in recess after a fight with former champion Seiya Tsutsumi was postponed for a third time, but the Japanese has now been placed into the same position after being unable to face Vargas at the fourth attempt, and Vargas now elevated once again.

“New weight class, same goals – dominate and pick up all the belts,” said Rodriguez. “On June 13, I look forward to becoming a three-division World Champion.”

“Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez is one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, and

that’s exactly why I took this fight,” said Vargas. “These are the moments champions live for. I respect his skill, his IQ, everything he brings to the ring. I look forward to defending my WBA World title and I’m ready to prove that I’m one of the best fighters in my weight class.

“I’ve worked my entire life to become a World champion, and I’m going to defend it with everything I have. I’m focused, I’m prepared, and everyone is going to see the best version of myself. But most of all I fight to glorify Jesus Christ”

“This is another fantastic fight for the best schedule in the sport,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “We were delighted to announce earlier the extension to our long-term deal with Jesse, and yet again, he has chosen to reach out for greatness and become a three-weight World champion, which would be an incredible achievement at just 26 years of age.

“Antonio is a very talented fighter and has been waiting for a big fight to prove it – and there are few bigger challenges in the sport than taking on Bam. Every time we do a show in and around Phoenix there’s always fireworks, and fans can expect nothing less on June 13.”

Announcements on the undercard and ticket on sale dates will be made in due course.

CORK, Ireland (April 17, 2026) – The official weigh-in for tomorrow’s “Revolution” pro boxing card, presented by NoWhere2Hyde Promotions, was held today in Cork, Ireland.  

Tomorrow’s action will be streamed live globally via www.trillertv.com from Parochial Hall in Gurranabraher, Cork, Ireland.

Official weights are below:

____________________________________________________

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 10 ROUNDS

Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (14-0, 9 KOs), Cork, Ireland 173.2 lbs.

Mick “The Hammer” Hall (15-3, 2 KOs), Preston, Lancashire, UK 172.8 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHT – 4 ROUNDS

Ryan McCarthy (Pro Debut), Cork, Ireland 147.6 lbs.

Wendall “Para” Da Costa Santos (1-7, 1 KO), Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil 146.8 lbs.

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

Brian “Bone Breaker” Long (3-0, 2 KOs), Cork, Ireland 171.6 lbs.

Ife Jarrett (0-12-1), London, UK 176.4 lbs.

 ____________________________________________________

NoWhere2Hyde Promotions is owned and operated by Tommy’s father/manager, Gary Hyde, an international boxing manager who has represented four world champions: Cuban Guillermo Rigondeaux, Congolese Youri Kalenga, Cameroonian Nassam N’Dam and South African Simpiwe Vetyeaka.

Event sponsors include Bar 1 Betting, The Black Market Cork, The Red Rose Irish Bar (in Weymouth, MA), R Kings Competitors, Celtic Contractors, and Old Mill Confectioners.

First bout at 7 p.m. GMT / 2 p.m. EDT

ABOUT NOWHERE2HYDE: Founded in 2007 by Gary Hyde in Cork, Ireland, NoWhere2Hyde offers full services for professional boxers around the world. In addition to undefeated super middleweight prospect Tommy “The Governor” Hyde (14-0, 14-0. 9 KOs), NoWhere2Hyde also manages 2020 Dominican Republic Olympian, welterweight Rohan Polanco (17-0, 10 KOs), who is currently world-rated at #6 by Ring Magazine, as well as WBO #8 and WBC # 9.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: #nowhere2hyde #tommyhyde

Twitter: @nowhere2hyde @tommyhyde99

Instagram: @gary_nowhere2hyde @tommyhyde1

Ring Magazine known as The Bible of Boxing for more than a century, is stepping into the

world of comics through a new partnership with Dark Horse Comics, launching an eight-
issue series that explores boxing’s timeless pursuit of the true champion.

Written by Gail Simone and illustrated by Elisa Romboli, with colors and lettering by
Iolanda Zanfardino, “The Ring: The Man Who Beat The Man” blends the drama of the
fight game with a fictional look inside the sport’s global chase for boxing’s top prize.
Produced in coordination with the editorial leadership at the Ring Magazine, the series’ first
issue will be released in June 2026.
The story follows veteran Ring Magazine journalist Cameron Duggan and rising broadcast
personality Lisa Wolfe, a former podcaster who has transitioned into television
commentary. As the pair travel the boxing world covering a new wave of contenders
chasing championship glory, they encounter the ambition, rivalries and politics that shape
the sport at its highest level.
Each fighter approaches the pursuit differently, but the goal remains the same, reach the
top of the sport and prove himself as the man who beat the man.

As Duggan and Wolfe document the journey of these fighters, they also find themselves
navigating the pressures and personalities that surround the sport.
“The Ring: The Man Who Beat The Man #1” will be available in comic shops and
bookstores on June 3, 2026, with a cover price of $4.99.

About Ring Magazine:
Since its acquisition by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh in November 2024, The Ring has entered a
new era, reinforcing its status as boxing’s most legendary and authoritative voice.
The magazine has showcased many of the sport’s biggest fights and most iconic moments, most
recently Shakur Stevenson vs Teofimo Lopez at a sold out Madison Square Garden, British
boxing’s most talked-about match-up between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, as well as the
legacy-defining showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, often
described as “the fight of the century.”
The Ring delivers world-class global coverage with unrivaled access to boxing’s top stars.
Building on its rich heritage, the magazine continues to document the sport at the highest level
whilst shaping the present and preserving the legacy of boxing.

About Dark Horse Comics:
Dark Horse Comics was founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson as an offshoot of his comics retail
chain, Things From Another World. With a goal of creating a welcoming environment for comics
professionals, Dark Horse continues to publish the work of many of the greatest creators in the
industry’s history. Dark Horse, from its beginning, also has a track record of establishing new
creative talent. Early on, the company set a new standard for quality with licensed properties,
including comics, graphic novels, collectibles, and art books based on popular film and gaming
properties. Dark Horse also began building a manga publishing line in the 1980s, going on to
release such classics as Lone Wolf & Cub, Akira, Ghost in the Shell, Trigun, and Berserk.
Richardson established Dark Horse Entertainment as a film division in 1989, finding initial success
with his own creations, The Mask and Timecop. Recent hits from Dark Horse Entertainment
include The Umbrella Academy on Netflix and Resident Alien on SyFy. In 2022, Dark Horse Media,
LLC was established as Dark Horse became part of Embracer Group AB.

Cristobal Lorente won a 12-round split decision over Nathaniel Collins in rematch in a WBC Featherweight Elimination Bout in Glasgow, Scotland.

In round six, Colling scored a knockdown when he landed a jab.

Lorente won on two cards 115-112, Collins won a card 116-111.

Lorente, 124.5 lbs of Barcelona, SPA is now 21-0-3. Collins, 1254 lbs of Glasgow is 17-1-1.

Gilley Stops Brown in Five

Sam Gilley stopped previously undefeated Aston Brown in round five of their 10-round middleweight bout.

In round four, the right eye of Brown started to swell. In round five, Gilley landed a series of shots that was culminated by a right to the head that put Brown down. With Brown hurt, Gilley went right after Brown and finished him off with a flurry in the corner that forced a referee stoppage at 1:35.

Gilley, 160 lbs of London is 19-2-1 with 10 knockouts. Brown, 159.4 lbs is 9-1.

Barney Smith Stops Mcintosh in 2

Royston Barney-Smith remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Conor Mcintosh in a 10-round super featherweight bout

Barney-Smith dropped McIntosh with Left to the body that was followed by a left to the head. Barney-Smith scored a second knockdown with a right to the body. Barney-Smith ended things by landing left to head that sent McIntosh down for a third time and the fight was stopped at 2:29.

Barney-Smith, 129.8 lbs of Southhampton, ENG is 16-0 with eight knockouts. McIntosh, 129.5 lbs of Port Talbot, WAL is 10-3.

Carrigan Takes Out Hodgetts Inside of a Minute

John Joe Carrigan needed just 54 seconds to stop Harley Hodgetts in their four-round junior middleweight bout.

Carrigan missed with a left that was was followed by a right hook to the head that put Hodgetts down for the count.

Carrigan, 154 lbs is 3-0 with three knockouts. Hodgetts, 154 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG is 5-7.

Arbuckle Stop Leivars After 4

Dylan Arbuckle stopped Nico Leivars after four-round due to an eye injury to Leivars.

Arvuckle.121.3 lbs of Newthhill, SCO is 10-0 with four stoppages. Leivars, 121.4 lbs of Nottingham, ENG is 7-1-1.

Lateef Bayo Alabi won a eight-round unanimous decision over Marcus Surheeland in a featherweight bout.

In round seven, Alabi was cut over his right eye

Alabim 125.5n lbs of Bolton, ENG won by scores of 78-74 twice and 79-74 and is now 6-0. Sutherland, 126 lbs of Schats, SCO is 10-1.

Machlan Arthur made a successful pro debut by stopping Donald Macinnes in the opening round of their four-round junior middleweight bout.

Arthur was all over Macinnes when the fight was stopped at 1:53

Arthur, 148.7 lbs of Edinburgh, SCO is 1-0 with one knockout.

John Thomson made a successful pro debut as he stopped Kasey Brandum in round three of their four-round junior welterweight fight.

In the opening minute, Thomson landed a flurry of punches that put Brandum down in the corner. Brandum was bleeding from the back of his head.

In round three, Thomson dropped Bradum again with a relentless flurry. Finally, Thomson continued the assault and the fight was stopped at 2:47.

Thomson, 136.5 lbs of Linarc, SCO is 1-0 with one knockout,

Alex Arthur Jr. stopped Owen Kirk in the opening round of their four-round super middleweight bout.

In round one, Arthur landed a left hand that Kirk to a knee. Kirk was holding his face and did not beat the count and the fight was over at 1:01.

Arthur, 171 lbs of Edinburgh, SCO is 4-0 with one knockout. Kirk, 17p.4 lbs of Marcum, ENG is 3-7-2.

Drew Limond won a four-round decision over Ryan Frost in a welterweight bout.

Limond, 149.5 lbs of Glasgow won by a 40-37 score and is now 6-0. Frost, 150.5 lbs of Colechester, ENG is 3-14.

HOLLYWOOD, CA. – April 17, 2026 – Unified WBA and WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez held a media workout in Los Angeles on Thursday ahead of his Cinco de Mayo Weekend showdown against undefeated two-division world champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video on Saturday, May 2 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The workout also included WBA Super Middleweight World Champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz and all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía, who square off in the explosive co-main event.

Also participating in the media workout was top contender Oscar Duarte, who takes on hard-hitting brawler Angel Fierro in a 10-round super lightweight attraction on the pay-per-view.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through www.AXS.com.

The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Sampson Boxing in association with TGB Promotions. Reséndiz vs. Munguia is promoted in association with Warriors Boxing and Zanfer Boxing Promotions. Duarte vs. Fierro is promoted in association with Cancun Boxing and BXSTRS.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. On top of those options, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Brickhouse Boxing Club in Hollywood:

GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ

“I’m so excited to headline this event. I believe we have the potential to give fans the ‘Fight of the Year’. While me and David Benavidez have sparred close to 200 rounds together over our careers, being in the ring for real is so much different. This will not just be a regular fight; this is going to be a war.

“Benavidez is bringing his aggression and forward style; I am bringing my movement. I think our styles will make for a great fight.

“Headlining Cinco de Mayo adds a lot of motivation for me. This date is for the legends of the sport. I’m ready to show everything I can do.

“The sparring with Benavidez happened a long time ago. Now we’re gonna jump in there with smaller gloves and no headgear. It’s gonna be very different on May 2. Everyone is gonna see.

“You need to make sure that you’re ready to add this much weight to your body when you move up from 175 pounds to cruiserweight like I did, and like he’s going to do for this fight. You have to be confident in your body and listen to your body. 

“This card is full of can’t-miss Mexico vs. Mexico matches.”

ARMANDO RESENDIZ

“I’ve come so far since that fight against Plant and I’m really excited to be in this position. I’ve learned that adversity isn’t your enemy, but rather your teacher.”

“I’m staying focused in the moment, on what matters, and that’s going out there and winning. That keeps my feet on the ground and allows me to stay centered.”

“Being the hunted instead of the hunter is certainly a different, but my mindset doesn’t change, I’m ready to brawl.”

“I want the biggest fights and toughest opponents, but that’s not my focus. All I can do is win on May 2 and continue on to great things.”

JAIME MUNGUIA

“Experience is on my side, no doubt about it. I’ve faced the bigger names, I know my way through 12 rounds. I have the edge.”

“I’m going to go after the KO. I can’t predict a specific round, but I can guarantee that the fans will witness a show on May 2.”

“Having Eddy Reynoso in my corner is truly an honor. He provides me with the tools I need to feel confident throughout fight week and when I step into the ring.”

“So many things go through your head when you walk towards the ring to fight on Cinco de Mayo. It’s not just another day. Fighting on Cinco de Mayo is representing the Mexican fans.”

“Canelo and I have talked about Reséndiz before, and he told me that I have all the tools I need to come out on top.”

OSCAR DUARTE

“I feel so motivated and excited to be a part of this Cinco de Mayo card. I know Fierro from training at Robert Garcia’s gym, but we never had the opportunity to spar each other.

“I’m in my best shape, and I am entering the ring with a chip on my shoulder after everything that happened with Richardson Hitchins pulling out of our fight.

“The situation with the Hitchins fight was really tough mentally because I was prepared to fight for the world championship. But everything happens for a reason.

“I’m totally focused on what’s next for me, which is gonna be a great fight on May 2. That’s what motivates me.”

Light Heavyweight rivals Ben Whittaker and Braian Suarez stood toe-to-toe for the final time before they get set to main event in Liverpool on Saturday night – live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.

The undercard sees popular Molly McCann fight for the first time as a professional boxer in her home city, when she collides with Ashleigh Johnson.

Fellow Liverpudlian Joe McGrail meets Aaron Hayden for the Central Area & WBA Continental Gold Super Bantamweight Titles and Heavyweight wonderkid Leo Atang faces Kazakhstan’s Viktar Chvarkou.

The fighters hit the scales on Friday lunchtime at BoxPark Liverpool – scroll down for the official results and Fight Night running order, plus watch back the Weigh-In in the video player below.

For all the latest updates, follow @matchroomboxing on social media.

PHOTOS: Free for Editorial use only, courtesy of Matchroom Boxing – HERE

If prompted, please use the password: WhittakerSuarez2026

WATCH: Ben Whittaker and Braian Suarez hit the scales at Friday’s Weigh-In
LIVERPOOL FIGHT NIGHT: OFFICIAL WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER

PRELIMS – LIVE ON DAZN FROM 5pm BST

Tom Rafferty (163.3lbs) vs Pablo Sosa (162lbs)
Super Middleweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Sam Norris (132.8lbs) vs Jahfieus Faure (132.5lbs)
Super Featherweight Contest
4 x 3-minute rounds

Jack Power (161.7lbs) vs Novak Radulovic (161.6lbs)
Middleweight Contest

6. 3-minute rounds

Ste Clarke (161.8lbs) vs Luis Enrique Montelongo (160.10lbs)
Middleweight Contest
8 x 3-minute rounds

MAIN CARD – LIVE ON DAZN FROM 7pm BST

Leo Atang (238.1lbs) vs Viktar Chvarkou (217.11lbs)
Heavyweight Contest
6 x 3-minute rounds

Joe McGrail (121.14lbs) vs Aaron Hayden (120.15lbs)
Central Area & WBA Continental Gold Super Bantamweight Title
10 x 3-minute rounds

Molly McCann (121.7lbs) vs Ashleigh Johnson (120.15lbs)
Super Bantamweight Contest
8 x 2-minute rounds

Ben Whittaker (182.14lbs) vs Braian Suarez (182.1lbs)
Light Heavyweight Contest
10 x 3-minute rounds

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – April 16, 2026 – Today at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden, MVP’s unified super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (17-1, 7 KOs) and WBA #4, IBF #6, and WBO #7 contender Bo Mi Re Shin (19-3-3, 10 KOs) stepped on the scales ahead of their highly anticipated main event showdown this Friday, April 17 in New York City, airing live on ESPN. 

Fighters on the main and preliminary cards participated in the weigh-in, including co-main event fighters MVP’s unified super middleweight world champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green (16-1, 11 KOs) and IBF #2 and WBO #3 contender Lani Daniels (11-4-2, 1 KO). Additional fighters included MVP’s Krystal Rosado (8-1, 2 KOs), Fernanda Reyes (8-0), MVP’s Nat “No Love” Dove (7-0-1, 2 KOs), Maria Micheo (14-6, 8 KOs), MVP’s Jahmal Harvey (2-0, 1 KO), Daniel Lugo (6-4, 2 KOs), Alex Vargas (14-0, 5 KOs), Rani Jalomo (7-0-1, 4 KOs), Elon De Jesus (11-1-2, 8 KOs), Connor Adaway (10-2-1, 4 KOs), Luis Gjolena (7-0-1, 5 KOs), Robert Salinas (4-2-1, 3 KOs), MVP’s Raquel Miller (13-0, 6 KOs), Adriana Araújo (6-3, 1 KO). 

MVPW-02 marks a major milestone as the inaugural U.S. event of MVP’s new year-round global platform for women’s boxing. The event will stream live on ESPN from the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden on Friday, April 17, with the preliminary card beginning at 6:45pm ET live on ESPN+, and the main card starting at 10:00pm ET, live on ESPN.

For additional details on the final weights, please refer to the below bout sheet. 

MAIN CARD

IBF/WBA/WBO/Ring Super Featherweight World Titles (130 lbs)

Alycia Baumgardner vs. Bo Mi Re Shin

129.8 | 129.4

Dallas via Freemont, OH | Seoul, South Korea

IBF/WBO/Ring Super Middleweight World Titles (168 lbs)

Shadasia Green vs. Lani Daniels

168.0 | 167.6

Paterson, NJ | Pipiwai, New Zealand

Bantamweight Bout (118 lbs)

Krystal Rosado vs. Fernanda Reyes

118.0 | 118.0

Carolina, PR | Mexico City, Mexico

Flyweight Bout (112 lbs)

Nat Dove vs. Maria Micheo

112.0 | 111.6

Philadelphia, PA | Eastvale, CA via Guatemala

PRELIMINARY CARD

Lightweight Bout (135 lbs)

Jahmal Harvey vs. Daniel Lugo

134.6 | 135.0

Oxon Hill, MD | Tucson, AZ

Junior Welterweight Bout (140 lbs)

Alex Vargas vs. Rani Jalomo

144.2 | 141.8

Bellport, NY | Chicago, IL 

Junior Featherweight Bout (122 lbs)

Elon De Jesus vs. Connor Adaway

121.4 | 122.0

Dunkirk, NY | Plymouth, England

Heavyweight Bout

Luis Gjolena vs. Robert Salinas

248.4 | 276.8

Bronx, NY via Tirana, Albania | Santa Rosa, TX

Super Middleweight Bout (168 lbs)

Raquel Miller vs. Adriana Araújo

168.8 | 169.2

San Francisco, CA | Salvador, Brazil

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter-first ethos. Since its inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes nearly 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

Main Card

Chris Camozzi, 205lbs. vs. Esteban Rodriguez, 204.6lbs.

BKFC Interim Cruiserweight Title

Ramiro Figueroa, 154.8 vs. Elvin Brito, 155

Jose Copeland, 265 vs. Corey Willis, 254.8

Josh Fremd, 204.4 vs. Jared Torgenson, 211.4

Andrew Yates, 164.4 vs. Rodney Hinton, 165

Deron Winn, 201.6 vs. Erick Lozano, 205.6

Octavin Turner, 124.8 vs. Joby Steffensmeier, 124.8

Prelims

Angelo Trujillo, 121.2 vs. Anthony Yost, 126.2

Matthew Maestra, 154.8 vs. Ruben Arroyo, 153.6

Venue

National Western Center

Denver, CO

Social Media

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

Twitter: @BareKnuckleFC

Facebook: @BareKnuckleFC

YouTube: @BareKnuckleFightingChampionship

TikTok: @BareKnuckleFC

Website: www.BKFC.com

New York, NY (April 16, 2026) – Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing announces the following official weigh-in results, ahead of the MVPW 02: Baumgardner v. Shin boxing card on Friday night:

Alex Vargas (144.2 lbs) vs. Rani Jalomo (141.8 lbs)

Get tickets or watch the fights live on ESPN+

Learn More About Friday’s Fight:

The stage is set for Friday night as Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing once again delivers an unbeaten showdown under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. Long Island’s Alex Vargas (14-0, 5 KOs) and Chicago’s Rani Jalomo (7-0-1, 4 KOs) both successfully made weight and are officially ready to clash tomorrow night at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Originally slated to face Ryan O’Rourke, Vargas now meets Jalomo after Star Boxing moved quickly to secure another undefeated opponent on short notice, preserving what could be one of the most compelling matchups on the card. Instead of losing momentum, the bout remains a high-stakes meeting of two unbeaten junior welterweight prospects on one of boxing’s biggest stages.

For Star Boxing, the late adjustment is another example of the promotion’s ability to deliver in pressure moments. Earlier this year, Wendy Toussaint was secured as a last-minute addition at Madison Square Garden after Carlos Adames missed weight, helping save a major fight night on short notice. Once again, fans are rewarded with a meaningful matchup despite the late change.

Vargas, fighting out of Bellport, New York, enters with hometown momentum and a major opportunity to perform in front of a New York crowd on a national platform. Jalomo, an unbeaten and dangerous young contender from Chicago, now steps into the biggest opportunity of his career.

The April 17 MVP event is headlined by unified super featherweight world champion Alycia Baumgardner defending her titles against Bo Mi Re Shin in a championship main event. Catch the action live on ESPN, with Vargas vs. Jalomo expected to air on ESPN+ beginning around 8:30 PM ET.

Two undefeated fighters. One legendary stage. One huge night for Star Boxing.

Secure your exclusive tickets with the link below.?

BUY TICKETS HERE!

April 16, 2026 – Zuffa Boxing announced today that cruiserweight knockout artist Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki has signed a multi-fight contract with the company.

Rozicki’s Zuffa Boxing debut will be announced in the coming weeks.

Rozicki (21-1-1, 20 KOs), from Sydney Forks, Nova Scotia, Canada, turned pro in 2016 and knocked out his first 13 opponents. His lone defeat came in 2021 via decision to longtime heavyweight contender Oscar Rivas. Rozicki is unbeaten in nine fights since the Rivas setback, often fighting in front of sold-out crowds in Nova Scotia. He last fought in March, where he scored a second-round knockout.

Rozicki joins a loaded Zuffa Boxing cruiserweight division that includes champion Jai Opetaia, former world champion Chris Billam-Smith, and top contender Brandon Glanton.

Rozicki said, “I’m excited for this next chapter and the opportunity to be part of what Zuffa is building. My team has done an incredible job getting me to this point and making sure everything is in place for me to succeed at the highest level. This is a big platform, and I’m ready to get to work and make a statement.”

About Zuffa Boxing

Zuffa Boxing is a joint venture between TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (“TKO”) (NYSE: TKO) and Sela, the entertainment conglomerate. TKO serves as managing partner, providing day-to-day operational expertise, management, and oversight of the promotion, with executive leadership anchored by UFC President and CEO Dana White and WWE President and TKO Board Member Nick Khan. The promotion aims to reimagine the sport of boxing by evolving the current model to restore the sport’s rightful place in the forefront of the global sports ecosystem. For more information, follow @Zuffa_Boxing on X; and @ZuffaBoxing on Snapchat, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.

About Sela
Founded in 1997, Sela is a Saudi Arabian company specializing in creating, constructing, and operating unique destinations and recreational experiences across sports, entertainment, culture, and hospitality sectors. Initially recognized as Saudi Arabia’s first FIFA-recognized athletes’ representation company, Sela expanded into sports marketing and has since diversified into broader recreational industries. 

About TKO
TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO) is a premium sports and entertainment company. TKO owns iconic properties including UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization; WWE, the global leader in sports entertainment; and PBR, the world’s premier bull riding organization. Together, these properties reach 1 billion households across 210 countries and territories and organize more than 500 live events year-round, attracting more than three million fans. TKO also services and partners with major sports rights holders through IMG, an industry-leading global sports marketing agency; and On Location, a global leader in premium experiential hospitality.

Ben Whittaker says he is ready to “dust” dangerous Braian Suarez this Saturday and move forward to what will be a huge rest of the year for him.

The Light-Heavyweight sensation headlines at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena in what is his toughest test to date against his Argentine rival – available to watch live worldwide on DAZN.

The undercard sees Molly McCann fight for the first time as a professional boxer in her home city, when she collides with Ashleigh Johnson. Fellow Liverpudlian Joe McGrail meets Aaron Hayden for the Central Area & WBA Continental Gold Super Bantamweight Titles and Heavyweight wonderkid Leo Atang faces Kazakhstan’s Viktar Chvarkou.

The fighters were on hand at today’s Press Conference, alongside Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn – here is everything they had to say:

Eddie Hearn:
“Welcome to the BOXPARK in Liverpool ahead of a big show this Saturday night, of course headlined now by what we believe is one of the biggest starts in world boxing; Ben Whittaker. He’s in a very tough fight against Braian Suarez. That press conference is still to come, and of course Molly McCann. As we know, recently lost the fight of Callum Smith and David Morrell. Always faced with a tricky situation. But what we have is a great fight city, a great fight card, we don’t let people down. And more importantly, we’ve got a whole host of undefeated fighters up here, a great TV card as well. Well done to all of you guys because we’re still expecting a big crowd in Liverpool on Saturday night. We’re all excited.”

Ben Whittaker
First of all, I want to thank the Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Thank you to Matchroom for keeping the show on. It’s going to be a great show. What he [Suarez] said is cute, man. They an all talk. They can all say they are going to do this and that. On Saturday, we’ll see. This is a fight I like and it is a fight that I need. When fighters come to fight like this, the best ben Whittaker turns out. It’s all about activity, it’s all about getting in the rng and presenting myself the way that Andy [Lee] sees in the gym. I’m a professional at heart, so I’ve been in the gym and working on my craft. If anything, it’s made me more scarier and given me time to work, ironing out those little things that we needed to iron out which you will see on Saturday. All he [Suarez] can do is walk forward, with those slow-ass, platypus feet, and that big ass head. So I’ll go out there, look good, listen to my team and however long it lasts, it lasts. A lot of people are calling me out. At the end of the day, I can’t look past Braian first. He’s fought for the IBO World Title. On paper, he’s the best opponent I’ve fought right now. When I dust him, we’ll [what’s next].”

Braian Suarez:
“Firstly, thank you for the welcome. I’m very very happy to be here in Liverpool and England – it’s my first time. Everyone has treated us really well. It has been an excellent welcome and thanks to everyone at Matchroom. You know who I am, I think my record speaks for itself. There’s no need to speculate, I’m an attacking fighter. Aa you say, I’m here to rough up Ben. You’re going to see how that goes down on Saturday. My comments about you making a mistake by bringing me over to fight Ben – you’ll see I’m true to my world on Saturday.”

Andy Lee – Ben Whittaker’s Trainer:
“This is a real test and a serious challenge, but if Ben is going to do what I think he’ll do in the sport – these are the challenges he needs. Commiserations to Callum [Smith]. We wish him well in his recovery. Ben has stepped in and taken the opportunity to main event here in Liverpool. I think it’s an opportunity for everyone in Liverpool and the surrounding area to come and see one of the future stars of boxing. You can say you were there when he fought Suarez and knocked Suarez out. What I’ve seen from Ben in this camp, he’s just gone to a whole new level. His ceiling, I don’t know where it is? He keeps getting better and better and better. It’s scary, and very exciting. You’re all in for a good show on Saturday night.”

Molly McCann:
“I’ve won a World Title in MMA in that arena. I’ve been put a’kip in the UFC in that arena, I’ve been round the world and back again, and I’ve never had the feelings of fighting in that M&S Bank Arena. Making the walk in there round the back into the changing rooms, I’ve never felt nothing quite like it. Like you say, I really thank you for keeping the fight on. I really appreciate that and I know that the Scousers will be coming. They’ll be loud. We’ve obviously had a big collaboration with Everton football club doing the fight kit, a big night with Jamie Webster. Not many people would sign someone who’s never really boxed before, and give them these opportunities that you’ve given me. Like I promised, I’ll be used in any which way to help promote and always give my best. I am absolutely buzzing. I’ve actually watched you [Ashleigh Johnson] box before, before I even knew this was going to happen. I was made up when I was given your name. I know you’re made of hard stuff and I know where you’re from and what you’re about. I know you’re coming here to win, you’re not going to come in here just for the occasion. I hope you’ve had the best camp of your life and I cannot wait to go toe-to-toe with you on Saturday.”

Ashleigh Johnson:
“Firstly, thank you for having me on the show. I’m ready, I’m so excited for it. I’m looking forward to sharing the ring with Molly. We’re both two girls who love to go in and have a fight. Both two girls who want to go in and win and get the job done. I think you’ve got an exciting job on your hands. I have had the tough fights but that’s what you want going in to boxing. You don’t want to take the easy fights. You want the hard fights and I think that’s what makes you in the sport as well. I’ve had some tough fights coming through my career. I’ve had a really good fight camp as well. Like you said, it’s been a nice time for it.”

Joe McGrail:
“I can’t wait. It’s my first step up. First titles in my home city. It’s going to be a special night for me, Ed. We’ll go at it, yeah. I’ll be looking to box his ears off. I’m not looking to take shots and that but I’m going to be looking to be exciting.”

Aaron Hayden:
“Yeah, firstly, thank you to Matchroom and yourself Eddie for giving me the opportunity of this. I think it’s going to be a very good fight. Two good lads, two very different styles going to war. I think it will be brilliant, yeah.It’s a well-matched fight. It’s going to be pretty in there ain’t it.”

Leo Atang:
“Nah I’m not nervous, I just don’t want to mess up. Probably definitely my best one yet, obviously with that injury I had earlier last year, I wasn’t really able to spar or train properly. Not even hit pads properly. Now that my hand is fully back better I feel like I’ve had my first proper full camp without an injury. I’ve got the sparring in, I’m hoping the timing and everything is going to be on point Saturday. I’m very grateful for everyone who comes out and spends their money to watch and support me. Eventually, down the line hopefully we’ll get a show down in York and have a load of people down there – it’ll be good. You say about the pressure and stuff like, I definitely feel it but I’m almost – I know it’s a cliche saying pressure is a privilege and all that – but you almost have to take it and enjoy it because they don’t just put it on you for no reason. I’m almost trying to not believe in it, but at the same time believe in myself, if that makes sense?”

Tom Rafferty:
“Firstly, I want to say a massive thank you to you for keeping the show on and keeping us going. I really appreciate it. I’ve had 16 fights now, that’s 16 good camps. I’ve not had the big promotional backing but I’m ready to show that I’m ready for these big fights. As I say on the small hall shows, been struggling to get the opportunities, but each camp you learn good self discipline and you’re learning all the time. It’s good experience in the bag but now I’m ready to push on to bigger and better things. I’m ready to show you, Matchroom and everyone else – I want to put on some brilliant fights in Britain because the fans absolutely love it. I love this sport and I want to really test myself to see what I’m made of.”

Sam Norris:
“I’m buzzing for it. I’m very very grateful that the show has still been kept on as well. I’m ready and I belong here, that’s what I believe. The city is thriving, especially in sport. Hopefully we all do well don’t we and it keeps coming back.”

Jack Power:
“Yeah I’m excited. I’m buzzing to be on this show. Great lads to the side of me. I’m looking to put on a big show and perform, showing what I’m about on Saturday. I’m excited. I just listen to my team and go and do what we’ve been working on. Just enjoy it, and there’s no pressure at all.”

Ste Clarke:
“I’m grateful to get on all these big shows, and grateful for the support that I get from all of my fans. I’m looking forward to Saturday night and putting on a big performance for everyone. I just want to stay active, gain all of that experience, and that’s what I’m doing in the sport right now. Jumping on all of these shows has helped me massively improve as a professional. I’m looking forward to the future. Jimmy [Sains] called me out after not his last fight, but the one before. I think that’s a great fight. We’ve got a little bit of history in the amateurs haven’t we. One step at a time but no, when those fights come I don’t think they’re too far off. I think they’re going to be great fights for the division.”

HOUSTON, TX, April 16, 2026 – O’Shaquie Foster will defend his WBC Super-Featherweight World title against Raymond Ford at the Fertitta Center in Houston, Texas on Saturday, May 30, exclusively live worldwide on DAZN.

Houston-based Foster (24-3 12 KOs) makes the first defense of the title in his second reign as the green and gold king at 130lbs, having regained the belt in a rematch with Robson Conceicao in Turning Stone, NY in November 2024 via split decision – having surrendered the strap in the same fashion four months earlier in New Jersey.

‘Ice Water’ clinically outpointed Stephen Fulton Jr in his last outing in December in San Antonio, and returns to a Matchroom card on DAZN after serving up a fight of the year contender in October 2023 in the first defense in his initial reign as the WBC 130lb boss when he went to Mexico and stood toe-to-toe with Eduardo ‘Rocky’ Hernandez, stopping the Mexican in the final round of a rollercoaster battle.

Ford (18-1-1 8 KOs) had a similarly spectacular night when he was coronated as the WBA champion at Super-Featherweight – crashing behind enemy lines and stopping out 126lb boogeyman Otabek Kholmatov in a last-gasp triumph in Turning Stone in March 2024. ‘Savage’ is now arrowing in on becoming a two-weight World ruler and gets his shot at Foster having won three fights at 130lbs since moving up to the weight, and moving to #2 in the WBC rankings.

The pair clashed ringside at the Navarrete-Nunez fight in Phoenix in March to add fuel to the flames of this fiery match-up, and now they will settle the score in Houston – and both men are confident of a big win in Texas.

“I’m happy and excited to fight at home for the first time as a World champion – it’s a dream come true,” said Foster. “We will be 1,000 per cent prepared, and we will dominate from round one.”

“I’m just happy he finally signed the contract,” said Ford. “When it came down to it, I was the biggest fight out there for him and now it’s time to fight and I can’t wait for it. He’s a good name for my resume and I’m taking that belt on May 30 and becoming a two-weight World champion.”

“What a fight this is!” said Matchroom Chairman Eddie Hearn. “O’Shaquie is a fantastic boxer, always in exciting fights, and a worthy World ruler. But we’ve been here before – Ray stopped a Top Rank man to become king of the World in enemy territory, and on May 30, we believe lightning strikes twice and ‘Savage’ gets the strap on a magic night in Texas.”

“O’Shaquie Foster solidified his place among the division’s elite by dismantling Stephen Fulton in December,” said Top Rank President Todd duBoef. “Now, he will defend his crown on his home turf against another former World champion in Raymond Ford. Recently, there’s been a lot of animosity brewing between the two, and we expect Foster to silence the chatter with a dominant performance from him on May 30.”

Announcements on the ticket on sale dates and undercard fights will be made in due course.

About DAZN

DAZN, the world’s leading sports entertainment platform, streams over 110,000 live events annually and is available in more than 200 markets worldwide.? DAZN is the global home of European football, women’s football, boxing, and MMA, as well as the NFL internationally. The platform features the biggest sports and leagues from around the world – Bundesliga, Serie A, La Liga, Ligue 1, Formula 1, NBA, Moto GP, and many more, including FIFA Club World Cup 2025. DAZN is transforming the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, play, buy, and connect. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN.? DAZN is a global, privately owned company, founded in 2016, with more than 4,000 employees. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit? www.dazngroup.com.

NORFOLK, Va. (April 16, 2026) — Tickets for the 12-round super lightweight rematch between Keyshawn Davis and Nahir Albright — Saturday, May 16, at Norfolk’s Scope Arena — are on sale now.

In the 10-round welterweight co-feature, former world champion Brian Norman Jr. (28-1, 22 KOs) takes on Canada’s Josh Wagner (19-2, 10 KOs).

Keyshawn-Albright II and Norman-Wagner will be streamed LIVE on DAZN.

In undercard action, Keyshawn’s older brother Kelvin Davis (15-1, 8 KOs) returns in a 10-rounder at welterweight, while younger brother Keon Davis (4-0, 3 KOs) sees action in a six-round bout in the same division. Additional undercard details will be announced shortly.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with RDR Promotions, tickets are available at the Scope Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

Davis (14-0, 10 KOs) enters the rematch with momentum after an impressive 140-pound debut in January, when he handed Jamaine Ortiz his first stoppage defeat. The former world champion and Olympic silver medalist defeated Albright by majority decision in October 2023 in a result that was later overturned. Now, he returns home looking to settle unfinished business.

Albright (17-2-1, 7 KOs), a Philadelphia native who turned pro with roughly 30 amateur fights, has turned in two of the best performances of his career since the first Keyshawn fight. Last June, he handed older brother Kelvin his first pro loss, and in January, he battled Frank Martin to a draw.
 

# # #

 
About SevenVenues 
The City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues serves to link Norfolk’s residents, visitors and tourists to Norfolk’s rich cultural arts and entertainment community. Besides providing entertainment services, SevenVenues is also responsible for the maintenance, repair, management and operation of the City’s seven public assembly facilities which include: Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall, the Attucks Theatre, the Wells Theatre, Harrison Opera House, Harbor Park, and Open Air Events. To learn more, visit SevenVenues.com.
 

The scheduled middleweight bout between MVP’s undefeated Tamm Thibeault and Nadja Jesus has been removed from the MVPW-02 card on Friday, April 17 at the Infosys Theater at MSG, live on ESPN, due to a visa delay for Jesus.

Most Valuable Promotions is working to schedule Thibeault’s next fight and will announce further details in the coming weeks. Thibeault remains one of the most exciting contenders in the sport and will be back in the ring soon.

The 8-round flyweight matchup between MVP’s undefeated Nat “No Love” Dove and Maria Micheo will now open the main card.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – April 15, 2026 – Today in New York City at Palladium Times Square, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and ESPN hosted the final press conference for MVPW-02, marking a major milestone as the inaugural U.S. event of MVP’s new year-round global platform for women’s boxing. The press conference featured the final faceoffs ahead of the highly anticipated main event from MVP’s unified super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (17-1, 7 KOs) and WBA #4, IBF #6, and WBO #7 contender Bo Mi Re Shin (19-3-3, 10 KOs) in a 10×3:00 championship bout. Also featured was the co-main event between MVP’s unified super middleweight world champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green (16-1, 11 KOs) and IBF #2 and WBO #3 contender Lani Daniels (11-4-2, 1 KO) in a 10×2:00 unified world title bout at 168 lbs, underscoring the depth and significance of the all-action event set for the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden on Friday, April 17, live on ESPN.

In attendance at today’s press conference were Baumgardner, Shin, Green, and Daniels, all of whom addressed the media as the countdown to fight night officially began.

Hosted by renowned combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani, the fighters shared their thoughts on their upcoming matchups and the significance of MVPW-02 in advancing women’s boxing on a global stage. See quotes below and view the full press conference on MVP’s YouTube Channel and ESPN+.

ALYCIA BAUMGARDNER QUOTES

On what she’s expecting from Bo Mi Re Shin on Friday, April 17: 

One thing about Bo is that she’s coming to fight. She is a warrior, just as I know she is. But I’m hungrier, and I’m meaner, and I’m just sharper.  

On her mindset going into the ring:

This last camp has been so good for me mentally, being locked in and in a different space. Now being the main event and shooting off on ESPN, this is a perfect moment to showcase who Alycia Baumgardner is. 

On what she’s learned from fighting 12 rounds:

What I learned from the last fight, fighting 12 rounds, was that I was able to take my time. I was able to show a high level of boxing. When we talk about skillful fighters, I am one of those fighters.  

On fighting 10, three-minute rounds on Friday, April 17:

I have high expectations for myself. It’s never a comparison to say I’m better than the man. It’s just that I can do it as well, and I do it just as good with the high level of boxing that I have, the high IQ that I have. I think people appreciate the style of boxing that I bring.  

On her plans for fight night:

For this fight, I know that I can fight 12 rounds. I know that I can do 3 minutes, so now I want to bring in the other parts of me that I know that I can bring out. And that’s just the meaner side, the more aggressive side, the hungrier side, the go-get-it side. That’s what I’m aiming for for fight night. 

On fighting at Madison Square Garden:

To see women’s sports push forward in a sport like boxing, we need our men, and we need our women. We need cohesiveness. We all share the runway to show the world that influence is important, and we have great women on this stage who can show that, as well as myself, on Friday night, to show that boxing is already here. We’re just putting it on the biggest stage, which is ESPN. 

On facing Caroline Dubois in the future:

I am chasing the biggest fights. Dubois is not ready. Is she hungry? Absolutely. Am I ducking smoke? No. I am aligned with the biggest fights possible, and that fight will happen when it happens.

On whether she would like to face Amanda Serrano, Katie Taylor, or Mikaela Mayer:

Those are all three great fights. Let’s get them all.

BO MI RE SHIN QUOTES

***All quotes have been translated from Korean to English.

On the Korean flag being presented to her by Alycia Baumgardner:

I’m going to show off the Korean flag on Friday after the fight.

On her thoughts on Alycia Baumgardner: 

I have a great respect for Baumgardner. She has a great style of boxing. She’s a strong fighter, but I believe I have more perseverance, and I will show you on Friday. 

On fighting 10, three-minute rounds on Friday, April 17:

I have always questioned, why should women’s boxing be two minutes, ten rounds, not three minutes, ten rounds, just like men? I have always prepared myself to be ready for three minutes, ten rounds, so no problem. 

On accomplishing her goal to fight Alycia Baumgardner: 

Alycia was my goal. She has always been, but now it’s time to take her belts for me. 

SHADASIA GREEN QUOTES

On preparing for future opponents: 

I’m not necessarily focused on anything but Lani Daniels. You gotta watch Lani Daniels. She’s had opportunities, she’s been a world champion, so my preparation is strictly for Lani Daniels come April 17th. Whatever is next after that, we’ll focus on it after that.  

On fighting at Madison Square Garden:

I’m just happy to be here at The Theater again. Like I said, this is my second home, and to be the co-main event to Alycia “The Bomb” is always entertaining. You guys got a show on your hands, April 17th, live on ESPN at the Infosys Theater.      

On fighting close to her hometown, Paterson, New Jersey:

This is home to me and my family. Just a 45-minute drive. I’ve got lucky things happening in this arena [Madison Square Garden], so I’m looking forward to it.   

On her thoughts on Lani Daniel’s wanting to face Savannah Marshall:

I would never overlook her. I mean to hear Savannah is the prize…Friday, April 17th…we’ll see about Savannah. 

LANI DANIELS QUOTES

On her thoughts on Shadasia Green’s victory over Savannah Marshall:

I was very impressed. I was a bit envious, actually, because Savannah’s been like my dream fight, like I’ve wanted to fight her the whole time since I started boxing. 

On a potential bout vs. Savannah Marshall:

Perhaps if I win on Friday, I’ll get the opportunity. 

On her weight class: 

I’m naturally a super middleweight; I just like to eat.

On her roots in New Zealand: 

For a small country like New Zealand, to be here on the big stage is wicked. 

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) was founded in August 2021 by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian with a fighter-first ethos. Since its inception, MVP has produced 30 live boxing events, currently promotes nearly 60 fighters, 16 world champions, and 26 top contenders.

MVP has led boxing’s evolution in the streaming era through partnerships with the world’s leading platforms. In November 2024, MVP’s Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2 was the first-ever live professional sports event streamed on Netflix. Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event of all time with 125 million live viewers worldwide. MVP went on to partner with Netflix twice in 2025 for MVP’s Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day.

Today, MVP is the global home of women’s boxing. MVP’s Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the first female fight to headline Madison Square Garden, while Taylor vs. Serrano 2 in 2024 saw 74 million viewers globally on Netflix and became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in US history with 47 million AMA in the US. Their 2025 trilogy on Netflix topped an all-women’s megacard that set the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most world championship belts ever contested on a single fight card, male or female, with 17 world titles, earning nearly 6 million viewers globally. 

Charlie Sheehy has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.

Sheehy moved to 12-0 in November with a ninth stoppage win in the paid ranks against D’Angelo Keyes in Fresno, California – a full circle moment for the 27 year old who made his debut in Fresno back in October 2021 on a Matchroom card headlined by Mikey Garcia vs. Sandor Martin.

The Brisbane, CA man turned over that night following a glittering amateur career with multiple tournament wins and Team USA representation, and Sheehy is itching to get back in the ring.

“I am very excited to sign with Matchroom,” said Sheehy. “I made my pro debut with Matchroom five years ago and always felt it was where I belonged. I believe in this platform and my team. Now, it’s time to prove I belong on the world stage.

“I want to thank Eddie Hearn and Peter Kahn for getting this done and my team, Mike Bazzel, Javiel Centeno and Bruno Escalante for continuing to put in the work with me.”

“Charlie is a fantastic addition to the stable,” said Hearn. “With his impressive amateur standing and solid base in the pro game, he’s ready to kick on now to start making moves and getting himself into the rankings and in range to make some real noise at 135lbs.

“We’ll be announcing Charlie’s first fight with us soon, which will be his first ten round bout and will take place on one of our stacked summer slate of shows that we’re rolling out this week.”

Ben Whittaker is ready to face his toughest test to date when he headlines at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena this Saturday against Argentina’s dangerous Braian Suarez – live on DAZN.

The Team GB Olympics hero was promoted to the main event after hometown hero Callum Smith saw his WBO Interim Light Heavyweight Title clash with David Morrell postponed due to injury.

But Whittaker says Merseyside is a special place for him, having won his first ABA Championship in the city as an amateur which propelled him towards his Tokyo 2020 Games silver medal success.

And now he is plotting a victory this weekend as a pro to steer him towards his dream of fighting next in America – before ultimately challenging the top names in the 175lbs division.

“Training camp has gone well, like everybody says. But I’m in a good place. I’m confident, I feel good. So now it’s just a case of going out there and performing a game plan,” said Whittaker, speaking to Matchroom Boxing’s SJA Award winning presenter, Jamie Ward.

“For me activity is key. I want to look good and win. The more you win, the more you get the bigger fights – and for me, that’s all that matters.

“When my girlfriend and my manager first told me the news, I thought it was an April Fools! But I think when the stars align, everything happens for a reason and it’s down to me now to go and put a show on.”

Whittaker faced-off with Suarez for the first time this evening, with the pair sizing each other up outside the city’s famous Royal Liver Building. But it was Callum Smith’s would-be opponent David Morrell who wanted to face him next, after calling the Midlands man out last week.

“They all call me out for a reason, I suppose. 100 per cent it’s a compliment,” Whittaker said. 

“On paper, perhaps I haven’t done too much yet but they are calling me out. So when you have these guys who are World Champions, or who have fought for World Titles, calling me out then it shows I’m doing something right.

“But, for me, when I get there I want to stay there. That’s why I listen to my team and trust the process in taking the fights that I’m supposed to be taking for now, then take over.”

Whittaker (10-0-1, 7 KOs) hopes he will pick up this weekend where he left off last November when he dismantled Benjamin Gavazi inside the first round with a devastating knockout.

“A lot of people have seen me dancing and stuff, but that knockout showed that I can really hit,”said Whittaker. 

“I came out, hunted him down and got him out of there. What a night it was. Hopefully I can do the same again on Saturday.”

Whittaker knows that Suarez (21-4, 20 KOs) – who last fought in the UK against Lyndon Arthur in 2023 for the IBO World Championship – will be desperate to cause a major upset. But the Brit is confident, he will leave Liverpool with his undefeated record firmly in tact.

“He’s a good opponent,” Whittaker said.

“He’s had more knockouts than I’ve had fights. On paper, he’s a tough fighter and the Argentine fighters are always game. A lot of people might brush past that it was the IBO, but he has still been in a World Title fight. For me, this is a good step up and a step up that I need. I just believe that I am better than him in every department.” 

Should he triumph in style, Whittaker fully expects to have his next fight in the US, which would be the realisation of a career-long dream of his.

“That is the plan, of course,” he said. 

“But you can never look too far ahead and you need to get the job done. God willing, everything goes to plan and I go to America. I’m looking forward to it. 

“The fans out there want me to fight out there, so I’d like to do that one day and put on a show. I’ve even already got the ring walk planned.”

Watch Thursday’s Press Conference live on Matchroom Boxing’s official YouTube channel and follow all the latest updates on social media @matchroomboxing

Los Angeles, California, USA – Thursday 16th April 2026 – BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, the world’s leading and fastest-growing professional bare knuckle organization, today announced the signing of two elite boxing prospects: Fernando Vargas Jr. (17-1, 15 KOs) and Amado Vargas (13-0, 6 KOs). The brothers, both in their physical prime, are making the highly anticipated jump from gloved boxing to bare knuckle competition under a multi-fight agreement.

Mike Vazquez, Founder of BKB Bare Knuckle, said: “The growth of BKB over the past twelve months has been immense. We’ve signed some of the greatest legends in combat sports. Now, we’re seeing undefeated prospects with world title potential in gloved boxing transition to bare knuckle in their prime – and we’re only going to see more of this. I can’t wait to see the Vargas brothers in the trigon.”

David Tetreault, CEO of BKB Bare Knuckle, said: “Signing both Fernando Jr. and Amado is a major addition to our roster. These are two athletes in their physical prime, hungry for success – and they see BKB as the perfect opportunity to achieve this. BKB is going mainstream and the Vargas brothers will play a huge part in driving us there.”

Carrying the championship lineage of their father, two-time light middleweight world champion Fernando Vargas, the brothers bring proven elite-level talent and a burning hunger for success to bare knuckle boxing. Fernando Jr. has overcome significant personal setbacks to compile a professional record featuring 15 knockouts in 17 wins, including an 11-fight knockout streak early in his career. Amado, an aggressive pressure fighter, has steadily risen through tougher competition with multiple early finishes. Together with their younger brother Emiliano, they represent the powerful Vargas Dynasty and have the potential to become the poster boys for bare knuckle boxing for many years to come.

These groundbreaking signings underscore the surging momentum of BKB, which continues to draw decorated gloved boxers to their high-stakes, action-packed events. The promotion has recently welcomed stars like Olympic gold medalist and former multi-weight world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa, and former world champions Lee Selby and Victor Ortiz to the bare knuckle ranks, with all of their debuts to be announced in the coming weeks. Trailblazer Paulie Malignaggi challenges reigning champion Rolando Dy for the BKB Welterweight World Title on May 16th in Manchester after a highly successful debut.

Fernando Vargas Jr., nicknamed “El Feroz” after his father, is a ferocious finisher with legitimate world-title pedigree in his blood. The 29-year-old super welterweight turned pro at age 24 after overcoming major personal setbacks, including time in jail where he trained by using his prison She;mattress as a heavy bag. He responded with an explosive start, winning his first 11 professional fights by knockout and boasting an 88% finishing rate. His only defeat came in a competitive decision against rising star Callum Walsh on the stacked Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford pay-per-view card in September 2025. A dedicated, straight-edge athlete, Vargas Jr. has rebuilt his career with discipline and hunger, proving he belongs among the sport’s elite.

Amado Vargas, the 25-year-old middle brother, is an aggressive pressure fighter renowned for his relentless pace, sharp combinations, and punishing body attacks. With a strong amateur background that included a No. 5 national ranking in the 114-pound class with Team USA, Amado turned professional in early 2021 and has consistently stepped up in competition. He has scored early knockouts in three of his last five bouts, with standout victories over Sean Garcia (brother of WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia) in July 2024 and Nurideen “Deen The Great” Shabazz at Misfits Mania in December 2025. Like his brothers, Amado trains as part of the tight-knit Vargas Dynasty unit and lives a clean, disciplined lifestyle

The Vargas brothers were featured in the 2014 reality docuseries Welcome to Los Vargas, which showcased the “Dynasty” concept. They maintain a heavy social media presence and also work as actors, models, and entrepreneurs. In 2024, they served as special guests in the 92nd annual Hollywood Christmas Parade on The CW Network, benefiting Marine Toys for Tots.

Their move to BKB is driven by the promotion’s explosive growth, top-tier production, and the raw intensity of bare knuckle fighting. The brothers see BKB as the ideal stage to compete together as a unified family unit and build on their legacy in the purest form of the sport.

Fernando Vargas Jr. said: “My brothers and I are in our prime and we see BKB as the future of combat sports. I’m bringing the same ferocious finishing power that earned me the nickname ‘El Feroz’ – the kind of knockout hunger that can make me a world champion here just like my father. This is our chance to step up, fight the legends crossing over, and build our own legacy as bare knuckle icons.”

Amado Vargas said: “We’re in our prime and ready to make our mark as pioneers in bare knuckle. What I bring is nonstop pressure, sharp combinations, and body work that breaks opponents down. BKB gives us the platform to follow in our dad’s footsteps, face the big names making the jump, and become world-renowned champions together as the Vargas Dynasty.”

The Vargas brothers join an elite and rapidly growing roster of more than 200 fighters from over 30 countries, highlighting BKB’s magnetic pull for boxing’s next-generation talents seeking the ultimate test in the most primal combat sport. More major announcements are coming as BKB maintains its meteoric rise.

From its origins in 2015 as BYB Extreme Fighting Series, founded by MMA pioneer Dhafir “Dada 5000” Harris and Mike Vazquez, BKB has transformed bare knuckle boxing into a regulated, globally broadcast powerhouse through strategic acquisitions, including the original UK-based BKB in 2024 and Bad To The Bone in 2025, and a fighter-first philosophy that emphasizes athlete welfare and opportunity. Landmark broadcast partnerships with talkSPORT (UK and Ireland), VICE (US and Canada), and Telemundo (Spanish-language in the US) have delivered live events to millions worldwide.

Details on the Vargas brothers’ debut fights and upcoming events will be announced soon. Fans can visit www.bkbbareknuckle.com and follow @bkbbareknuckle for the latest news and information.

QUEBEC CITY, April 15, 2026 — The Capitale-Nationale will host a double main event on June 11! Témiscouata’s pride, Leïla Beaudoin, will face Colombian contender Paulina Angel in an interim WBA super featherweight world championship bout. The highly anticipated clash, presented at the Théâtre Capitole, is added to the previously announced main event (HERE), featuring Wilkens Mathieu against Olympic medalist Esquiva Falcao.

“I feel grateful for so many reasons. Returning to a world championship this quickly is already incredible, but being able to do it — for the first time — at home, in front of my people, is something else. I know many people will be behind me to support me, and I plan to thank them by winning my first world title on April 11,” said the athlete from Bas-Saint-Laurent, Leïla Beaudoin.

As “incredible” as a world title opportunity may be, Leïla Beaudoin (14-2, 2 KOs) has certainly done everything to earn it. Last December in Miami, the Quebecer became the first woman in her nation’s history to fight in a unified world championship contested over 12 three-minute rounds. Despite a decision loss to American Alycia Baumgardner, Beaudoin delivered a convincing performance, winning several championship rounds in front of nearly 15 million viewers on Netflix.

Determined to come back stronger than ever, the native of Rivière-du-Loup returned to the ring less than four months later, on April 9. Facing an opponent who had already been crowned world champion three times, in Victoria Bustos, Leïla Beaudoin dominated each of the 10 rounds. Still ranked in the top 5 of the WBA, WBC, WBO and IBF world rankings, the 30-year-old Quebecer was immediately given the opportunity to return to a world championship bout against Paulina Angel.

“This fight is the result of all the work Leïla has put in over the years. She deserves this opportunity. She has worked with discipline and intelligence to reach this level. We know Angel is a solid opponent, but we are fully confident of leaving the Capitole with the victory on June 11,” assured the trainer of the EOTTM protégé, Samuel Décarie-Drolet.

Seizing her second chance at a world title will also be the objective of Paulina Angel (7-2-2, 3 KOs) when she arrives in Quebec City next spring. A 24-year-old athlete from Medellín, Colombia, Angel made a strong entry into the professional ranks in October 2020, recording three knockouts in as many fights. Fighting in her native Colombia, as well as in Mexico and Panama, she eventually became WBA Latin American super featherweight champion (130 lb). Last August, she lost by unanimous decision in a world title fight at 135 lb against American Stephanie Han. However, Angel left a strong impression in Orlando, knocking the champion down in the very first round. Back in the division where she remains undefeated, the WBA’s No. 7 contender fully intends to surprise Beaudoin.

Also on the card on June 11: WBC Continental super middleweight champion Moreno Fendero (14-0, 10 KOs) will make his first title defense against Puerto Rican puncher Jonathan Gonzalez (21-1-1, 17 KOs). The pride of Thetford Mines, Thomas Chabot (12-1, 8 KOs), light heavyweight double continental champion Mehmet Unal (15-0, 13 KOs), EOTTM prospect Erik Israyelyan (5-0, 3 KOs) and popular Trois-Rivières boxer Daylen Pepin (2-0) will also be in action against opponents to be announced soon.

The full #MathieuFalcao event, featuring the #BeaudoinAngel championship bout, will be broadcast in full on Punching Grace, while TVA Sports will air the preliminary fights. Tickets for the June 11 event, presented at the Théâtre Capitole, are still available on the Ticketmaster platform (HERE). 

NORFOLK, Va. (April 15, 2026) — Norfolk’s hometown star is set to headline Top Rank’s inaugural event on DAZN in a rematch steeped in bad blood.

Former world champion and Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis will face Nahir Albright in a 12-round super lightweight showdown on Saturday, May 16 at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. The two first met in October 2023, when Davis won a majority decision that was later overturned.

In the 10-round welterweight co-feature, former world champion Brian Norman Jr. returns against Canada’s Josh Wagner.

Keyshawn-Albright II and Norman-Wagner will be streamed LIVE on DAZN. 

In undercard action, Keyshawn’s older brother Kelvin Davis (15-1, 8 KOs) returns in a 10-round welterweight tilt, while younger brother Keon Davis (4-0, 3 KOs) sees action in a six-rounder in the same division. Additional undercard details will be announced shortly.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with RDR Promotions, tickets go on sale Thursday, April 16, at 10 a.m. ET at the Scope Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

“Keyshawn and Nahir left a lot of unfinished business in their 2023 fight, and everything that’s happened since has only intensified the stakes for this rematch,” said Top Rank President Todd duBoef. “Norfolk fans know exactly what this fight means for Keyshawn as he strives to re-establish himself as one of boxing’s elite stars. Brian Norman Jr., who many considered the best fighter in his division before losing his crown, returns in the co-feature looking to re-establish himself as a dominant welterweight with explosive knockout power and charisma. This inaugural doubleheader is the perfect launch of our new partnership with DAZN.”

“This is exactly the kind of event DAZN loves to broadcast — unfinished business, genuine rivalry and elite-level boxing on a major stage,” said Jared Kass, SVP North America, DAZN. “Keyshawn Davis versus Nahir Albright is a rematch fans have been demanding, and bringing it to Norfolk for Top Rank’s first DAZN event makes it even more special. With a stacked card featuring Brian Norman Jr. and the extended Davis family, May 16 promises a night that fight fans around the world won’t want to miss. Watch it live only on DAZN.”

Keyshawn (14-0, 10 KOs) enters this rematch at an important moment in his career. He became a world champion in only his 14th fight by stopping Denys Berinchyk in the fourth round to capture the WBO crown in February 2025. The 27-year-old was scheduled to make his first defense last June in Norfolk against Edwin De Los Santos, but the bout was canceled after he missed weight. He reset his course in the months that followed and returned in January with a statement-making 140-pound debut, handing Jamaine Ortiz his first TKO defeat. Now Keyshawn returns to deliver the performance his hometown has been waiting for and finish what he started against Albright.

“Norfolk! I’m coming home with a purpose,” Keyshawn said. “Since my last fight, I’ve grown sharper, stronger, and more focused than ever. On May 16, you’re going to see the best version of Keyshawn Davis. ‘The Businessman’ is ready to handle business in front of my people! It means everything to be kicking off this new era for Top Rank on DAZN. I’m honored to lead the charge and show the world what this next chapter looks like. Norfolk, stand up—we’re putting on a show!”

Albright (17-2-1, 7 KOs), a Philadelphia native who turned pro with roughly 30 amateur fights, earned his spot the hard way. He lost his pro debut via majority decision in September 2016 but went on to win 14 straight before dropping a decision to Ortiz in February 2022. He followed with wins over Estivan Falcao and 2016 Olympian Carlos Balderas ahead of his first clash with Keyshawn, a rugged affair in which Albright kept the fight close on the scorecards. Since then, he has delivered two of the best performances of his career, handing older brother Kelvin his first pro loss last June and battling Frank Martin to a draw in January.

Albright said, “All my life I have been an overcomer. Starting from when I was a kid, I fought my way to this position, tough fight after tough fight. And I’m still standing tall. This fight is another obstacle to jump over. I’m ready and grateful.”

“Nahir belongs in the ring with all the top fighters,” said Albright’s promoter, Rodney Rice, Founder and CEO of RDR Promotions. “He has put the work in and has an outstanding résumé. The combined record of his last eight opponents is 113-3-1, and his record against them is five victories, one decision loss, one no contest, and a draw. There is no doubt in my mind that Nahir ‘Woo’ Albright belongs at the top and he will, once again, prove that point.”

Norman (28-1, 22 KOs) compiled an impressive championship run that began in May 2024, when the 25-year-old stopped Giovani Santillan in the 10th to earn the WBO interim welterweight world title. The Atlanta native was elevated to full champion later that year after Terence Crawford vacated the title and followed in 2025 with highlight-reel title defenses against Derrieck Cuevas and Jin Sasaki before losing the crown to Devin Haney in November. Wagner (19-2, 10 KOs) is a 12-year pro whose only losses have come against then-undefeated David Papot in November 2024 and once-beaten Harlem Eubank last November.

Norman said, “The God of War is back…I stayed patient. I stayed working. And now it’s time to remind the world. See ya’ll in May.”
 
“I’m coming to take over Virginia,” said Wagner. “The boss is ready to showcase his skills and cause a huge upset. No man scares me.”
 

# # #
 

About SevenVenues 
The City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues serves to link Norfolk’s residents, visitors and tourists to Norfolk’s rich cultural arts and entertainment community. Besides providing entertainment services, SevenVenues is also responsible for the maintenance, repair, management and operation of the City’s seven public assembly facilities which include: Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall, the Attucks Theatre, the Wells Theatre, Harrison Opera House, Harbor Park, and Open Air Events. To learn more, visit SevenVenues.com.
 

Hollywood, FL (April 15, 2026) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, celebrates their 8th Year Promotional Anniversary, returning to Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL for their 15th can’t miss venue event on Thursday, June 4.

Bare Knuckle Fight Night Hollywood is headlined by a sensational, welterweight clash between Former BKFC Welterweight World Champion, Julian ‘Let Me Bang’ Lane, (9-9), of Mansfield, OH and undefeated, fast-rising, all-action attraction Bryce ‘Baby Yaga’ Henry, (6-0, 6 KOs), of Broward County, FL.

Ticket information for BKFC Fight Night Hollywood can be found at BKFC.com. Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL is located in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314. The event will also be broadcast internationally as part of the BKFC+ Subscription for $7.99 per month on the BKFC App – The Best Value in Combat Sports.

“We’re thrilled to return to our second home, Hard Rock Live for our 15th event,” said David Feldman, Founder and President of BKFC. “We’ve had an incredible eight years promoting the baddest men and women in the world and the fans in South Florida have been incredibly supportive since day one. We expect to continue our sell-out streak at this premiere sports and entertainment venue.”

“Julian Lane has been with us since the beginning and is a true BKFC fighting legend however Bryce Henry has been on an unprecedented winning streak, all by knockout. Both guys want a shot at the world title and this is a true BKFC crossroads battle. The former champ versus the fast-rising star – expect fireworks from the opening bell.”

Longtime fan favorite and #1 Ranked Julian Lane returns to the ring following a hotly contested world title clash with Dustin Pague on January 17, 2026 at the Mohegan Sun Arena. Prior to the ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate against Pague, Lane was on a remarkable five-fight winning streak, running through a gauntlet of Gorjan Slaveski, Cameron VanCamp, Mexican Boxing Legend Alfredo Angulo, Evgeny Kurdanov and Murat Kazgan.

Lane also battled arch-rival Mike Perry at KnuckleMania II, fighting in one of the very best bare-knuckle fights over the last decade.

Fighting in huge BKFC events across the country, the 25-year-old Bryce Henry has continued to impress in every fight defeating Roderick Stewart, Derrick Findley, Robbie Peralta, Tom Shoaff, Brandon Shavers and Billy Wagner with all of his wins coming by show-stopping knockout.

Henry is also 7-1 as a professional boxer.

Additional fights on the action-packed card will be announced shortly.

Social Media

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

Twitter: @BareKnuckleFC

Facebook: @BareKnuckleFC

YouTube: @BareKnuckleFightingChampionship

TikTok: @BareKnuckleFC

Website: www.BKFC.com

HARTFORD, CT – Unbeaten Yonkers native Iman Lee (14-0-1, 8 KOs) takes a major step toward contender status on Saturday, April 18, when he faces Dominican Jose Nunez Sosa (8-2, 6 KOs) for the vacant NABF Super Featherweight Championship at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

The 10-round bout serves as the co-main event of CES Boxing’sThe Riverside Rumble, a stacked card featuring two championship fights and many of the top prospects in the country.

Tickets for The Riverside Rumble are on sale now at CESFights.com. Doors open at 4pm, with the Jimmy Burchfield Classic Invitational amateur showcase beginning at 5pm.

At just 26 years old, Lee enters the biggest fight of his professional career following a breakout year in 2025. The Yonkers product gained valuable international experience as part of the WBC Grand Prix featherweight tournament, where he went 2-0-1 against top competition and a variety of styles from around the world.

“I learned to be calmer and take my time,” said Lee of his key takeaways from the experience. “Those were six-round fights where you had to showcase everything quickly, but I learned to slow down, pick my shots better, and listen to my coaches. It really opened my eyes.”

Lee faced a wide range of styles during the tournament, defeating slick Argentine Juan Manuel Albornoz in round one and Mexican pressure fighter Hector Calderon in round two before drawing with South Africa’s Bekzizwe Maitse in the quarterfinals. 

“The experience showed me that I have to adapt no matter the style, height, or type of opponent,” said Lee. “It also proved that I can adjust on the fly in the ring if I need to.”

Learning to adjust mid-fight to be successful is a trait that will serve Iman well as he transitions from prospect to contender.  

That adaptability will be tested again on April 18, when Lee faces Jose Nunez Sosa, a hard-hitting 26-year-old from the Dominican Republic known for his aggressive style and knockout power, with six of his eight wins coming inside the distance. 

“I’ve sparred with him a couple of times in the past, so I’m familiar with him,” said Lee. “He likes to fight, so for me, it’s about staying calm and sharp, using my reach, and relying on my stamina.” 

The bout also marks Lee’s debut at 130 pounds after competing primarily at featherweight.

“I didn’t have to move up – I did it for the opportunity to fight for the NABF title,” explains the 5-foot-10 Lee.  “It means a lot for me to fight for that belt.”

In addition to capturing the NABF title, a win on April 18 would position Lee firmly within the WBC rankings and move him one step closer to a world title opportunity.

“There’s no rush,” said Lee when considering how soon he’d like to fight for a world title. “I just want to keep gaining experience so that when the time comes, I’m ready.”

Fighting less than two hours from his hometown, Lee is expected to draw strong support from the New York area and is eager to deliver a statement performance.

“I’m very thankful for everyone who is coming out to support,” Lee said. “I’m looking forward to putting on a great performance on a stacked card.”

For more information on The Riverside Rumble and all CES events, visit cesfights.com.

INFORMATION

ABOUT CES BOXING

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.

New York, NY (April 14, 2026) — Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing has acted quickly to preserve Friday night’s undefeated vs. undefeated showdown at the Mecca of Boxing, as Long Island’s Alex Vargas (14-0, 5 KOs) will now face Chicago’s unbeaten prospect Rani Jalomo (7-0-1, 4 KOs) on April 17 at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Originally scheduled to face Ryan O’Rourke, Vargas will now face off with Jalomo, as Star Boxing has secured another undefeated opponent to preserve this high-stakes junior welterweight showdown. The two undefeated prospects will square off on one of boxing’s biggest stages as part of the nationally televised MVPW 02: Baumgardner v. Shin card.

For Star Boxing, the seamless late adjustment is another example of the promotion’s ability to deliver under pressure. Earlier this year, Wendy Toussaint was secured as a last-minute addition at Madison Square Garden after Carlos Adames missed weight, preserving a major fight night on short notice. Once again, the Star Boxing team has stepped up to ensure fans will still see a high-stakes unbeaten showdown on a major stage.

Vargas (14-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Bellport, New York, enters with hometown support and a major opportunity to shine in front of a New York crowd.

“I’ve been doubted my entire career, but that’s what motivated me,” said Vargas. “Fighting at Madison Square Garden is a dream, and on Friday night I’m going to prove I belong here.”

“This is what Star Boxing is all about – developing elite talent, overcoming challenges, and delivering meaningful fights on major stages,” said Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia. “Alex is ready, Rani is stepping up, and fans are going to see a tremendous fight.”

PUBLIC WEIGH-IN

Thursday, April 16

FREE and open to the public

Doors open at 4:30 PM EST

The April 17 event will be headlined by unified super featherweight world champion Alycia Baumgardner defending her titles against contender Bo Mi Re Shin in a championship showdown that will headline the night of action. Catch the Baumgardner v. Shin fight live on ESPN. Be sure to tune into ESPN+ around 8:30 PM for the Vargas v. Jalomo fight.

Two undefeated fighters. One massive stage. One huge night for Star Boxing.

Secure your exclusive tickets with the link below.

BUY TICKETS HERE!

Long Beach, California — A high-stakes Northern California rivalry will take center stage on May 15, 2026, as undefeated Oakland native Anthony Garnica faces San Jose’s seasoned contender Eros Correa for the WBC Continental Americas Title at New Era Fight Night III, presented by Showtime Boxing Promotions. Taking place at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, the bout brings together two of NorCal’s top fighters in a pivotal clash with major implications for the bantamweight division. The event will be televised live on FOX Deportes, bringing the action to a national audience.

Anthony Garnica (13-0, 8 KOs), the 25-year-old rising star from Oakland, has rapidly built a reputation as one of boxing’s most promising young prospects. With an aggressive yet composed style, Garnica now faces the toughest test of his career as he looks to claim his first major title and represent Oakland on a national stage.

“Fans can expect an action-packed fight,” said Garnica. “Eros is coming in hungry to revamp his career, and I respect the tough opponents he’s faced. I’ve followed his journey closely, and I’m excited to step in the ring with someone of his caliber. At the end of the day, it’s going to come down to styles—and mine will prevail.”

Standing across the ring is Eros Correa (15-2, 9 KOs), the 33-year-old veteran originally from San Jose, now fighting out of Las Vegas, Nevada. Correa brings experience, grit, and a renewed sense of purpose as he looks to defend NorCal pride while reestablishing himself among boxing’s elite. Correa enters the fight following a closely contested decision loss to Michael Angeletti in June 2025 and a brief injury setback earlier that year. Now fully healthy, he has revamped his training camp under renowned coach Richard Barrientes, sharpening his tools for what he views as a career-defining opportunity.

?“I’m excited to get back into the ring, and I know this title will get me back in the rankings where I belong,” said Correa. “I’ve been working with my new trainer and I’ve elevated my skillset. I’m ready to show that on May 15.”

Once ranked as high as No. 5 in the world by the WBA, Correa’s experience and resilience contrast with Garnica’s youth and undefeated momentum, setting the stage for a compelling youth vs. experience showdown fueled by regional pride.

The stakes are significant, as the winner is expected to break into the Top 20 rankings of the WBC, positioning themselves for a potential world title opportunity. With both fighters at critical junctures—Garnica on the rise and Correa seeking redemption—this matchup is expected to deliver fireworks in the 118-pound division.

The undercard will feature promising rising talents Andy Dominguez Velasquez and Criztec Bazaldua, both of whom continue to build momentum early in their professional careers. Known for their aggressive styles and fan-friendly performances, both fighters are expected to add excitement to an already stacked card, with opponents to be announced in the coming weeks.

Event Details:?

Event: New Era Fight Night III

Date: May 15, 2026

Location: Thunder Studios, Long Beach, California

Promotion: Showtime Boxing Promotions

Broadcast: FOX Deportes

Title on the Line: WBC Continental Americas Championship

Tickets:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-era-fight-night-iii-garnica-vs-correa-wbc-continental-americas-bantam-tickets-1986053782326?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

About Showtime Boxing Promotions

Showtime Boxing Promotions continues to deliver elite boxing events featuring top prospects, contenders, and championship-caliber matchups, showcasing the next generation of stars in the sport while providing a platform for future world champions.