THE RING V: NIGHT OF THE SAMURAI – FIGHT NIGHT RUNNING ORDER AND WEIGH-IN RESULTS

Reito Tsutsumi (129.7lbs) vs Leobardo Quintana (129.5lbs)
8 x 3-minute rounds Super Featherweight Contest

Taiga Imanaga (134.6lbs) vs Eridson Garcia (134.5lbs)
10 x 3-minute rounds Lightweight Contest

Willibaldo Garcia (113.9lbs) vs Kenshiro Teraji (114.5lbs)
12 x 3-minute rounds IBF World Super Flyweight Championship

Junto Nakatani (121.6lbs) vs Sebastian Hernandez (120.8lbs)
12 x 3-minute rounds Super Bantamweight Contest

Naoya Inoue (121.5lbs) vs Alan Picasso (121.1lbs)
12 x 3-minute rounds The Ring, IBF, WBC, WBO, WBA World Super Bantamweight Titles

DAZN broadcast begins at 12pm KSA in Riyadh, with the main event ringwalk expected at 3:57pm KSA, 12.57pm GMT, 7.57am ET, 4:57am PT, 9:57pm JST.

LAS VEGAS –The chants were back.

But Manny Pacquiao wasn’t, at least not in the eyes of three judges.

The 46-year-old Pacquiao, who seemed to defy middle-age and perhaps the aches-and-pains that come with it Saturday, was left with a controversial majority draw with World Boxing Council welterweight champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand.

The controversial scorecards mean Barrios keeps the belt and Pacquiao was denied a chance to make history. The Filipino legend had hoped to become boxing’s second-oldest world champion ever.

“I thought I won,” Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) said.

So did a crowd of 13,107 fans, who chanted the familiar “Manny, Manny” before and after every round. But those chants were supplanted by boos when the cards were announced. Max DeLuca had it 115-113 for Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs). Both Steve Weisfeld and Tim Cheatham had it, 114-114. The Boxing Hour scored 116-112 for Pacquiao.

Pacquiao, his worldwide celebrity still intact, suggested that his quest in the risky ring will continue.

“I need to continue my training for longer going into a championship fight,” Pacquiao said. “Because of the election I started late, but it’s okay. Of course, I’d like a rematch. I want to leave a legacy and make the Filipino people proud.”

Barrios said he would give Pacquiao another opportunity.

“I’ll do the rematch,” Barrios said. “Absolutely. This was huge for boxing. I’d love to do it again.” 

Expect the controversy to linger. It looked as if Pacquiao was well on his way beating a man 16 years his junior in a tactical, patient execution of the sweet science. He wasn’t the explosive, Bruce Lee-like figure that once blew away Hall-of-Fame names like a force of nature. This was a former Senator, deliberative and still dangerous enough to be a world champion.

Pacquiao’s familiar footwork, including a stutter-step inside, was there. The punch that followed, however,  missed more often than it had when Pacquiao’s power proved to be so lethal against Oscar De La Hoya, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales and Ricky Hatton.

All the while, Barrios looked tentative, cautious perhaps because he was looking into the face of a legendary lion,  or maybe because he didn’t want to go out like Hatton, who waa lifted so high by a Pacquiao knockout punch that you could see the bottom of Hatton’s shoes from ringside. The years have left some lines on that Filipino face. There’s gray in his facial hair.  The punches travel at a slower rate. The explosive dynamic isn’t there anymore.

But the skillset is still solid, tempered by time yet improved by wisdom. Above, he still knows his way around the ring. That has changed. Then again, neither has the judging.

Welcome back, Manny, on a night full of cheers and boos.

Tszyu surrenders, Fundora wins TKO

Blood was expected. There was a trace. In the end, however, there was surrender.

The rematch ended abruptly with Tim Tszyu sitting on his stool after the seventh, perhaps his best round, Saturday night against Sebastian Fundora in front of an astonished crowd awaiting Manny Pacquiao’s comeback against Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand. 

This was the same Tszyu who refused to quit after he suffered a gruesome cut at the top of his head in their first fight.  Then, it seemed as though nothing could stop him from fighting on. This time, however, he didn’t lose much blood from a cut above his right eye. This time, he lost his will.

“That’s one tough m-effer,” Tszyu said as he pointed at Fundora after the surprising conclusion to a much-anticipated sequel.”And I tried to give everything.”

It was decided that everything was just not enough this time. The fight ended on the advice of his corner. His corner must have looked into his eyes and saw that there was no more blood to spill. Suddenly, they saw a fighter exhausted and unable to continue in a fight that raises doubts about the rest of his career

Tszyu’s challenge, a complicated mix of height and geometry, quickly became apparent. Tzsyu’s only path to victory is to step inside against the 6-foot-6 Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs), who has the wing span of a gigantic praying mantis. In the first round, Tszyu took that perilous first step. Boom, Fundora saw it and threw a counter-right that dropped Tszyu (25-3, 18 KOs) onto the canvas with a thud.

Emboldened, Fundora, still the junior-middleweight champ, took the initiative in the second, moving forward and forcing Tszyu into what looked to be a tentative retreat. Suddenly, blood appeared over Tszyu’s eye. For him, it had to be an uncomfortable reminder of the bloodletting he suffered in their first bout, won by Fundora in a split decision.

In the third and throughout the fourth, however, Tszyu became more surefooted and appeared to regain his aggressiveness. He also got a little quicker with his punches, effectively rocking Fundora with shots that seemed to take some of the edge and precision out his long punches. Tszyu capitalized. He began to circle , a wary predator. He also began to land throughout the fifth and again in the sixth.

In the seventh, the rematch began to settle into a brawl. It began with Tszyu rocking Fundora with a short right. But Fundora also began to re-employ his reach.

“We’ve been working on that all of the time,” said Fundora, who talked as if he wanted to use his incredible reach throughout the rest of the fight.

But Tszyu and his corner had already seen enough of it.

The seventh round was more than the beginning of the end. 

It was the end.

Pitbull Cruz wins dominant decision

Omar Salcido was a late stand-in, which is another way of saying he probably doesn;t have a chance.

He didn’t.

Salcido, who replaced Angel Fierro Friday, did a lot of things. He endured. He even took Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz into the 10th and final round. But any chance at a huge upset was never really there. Cruz started slowly and then showed all the aggressiveness defined by his nickname with a bullish assault over the final three rounds of a live-streamed bout on the Pacquiao-Barrios card at the MGM Grand.

In the 10th, Salcido ((20-3, 14 KOs) went to his knees. He was also penalized, losing a point for an apparent attempt at an illegal blow.

In the end, it was more than a shutout on the scorecards. Cruz, an interim junior-welterweight champion, won 100-88 on one cad and 99-89 on the other two

After it was over, Cruz (28-3-1, 18 KOs) had kind words for Salcido, who suddenly became his opponent when Fierro was sent to the hospital after a futile attempt to make weight.

“I have ultimate respect for him taking the fight,” said Cruz, who had only contempt for Fierro, whom he called unprofessional. “He’s a good fighter. We’re both champions.’

Figueroa scores decision over Joet Gonzalez

Brandon Figueroa calls himself The Heartbreaker.

Figueroa did that and more Saturday. The heartbreak was suffered by Joet Gonzalez, who continues an up-and-down ride through a career that is 4-4 over his last eight bouts, including successive losses over his last two.

Figueroa (26-2-1, 19 KOs), a former champion at 122 and 126 pounds, appeared to have a slight advantage in size and strength against the star-crossed Gonzalez (27-5, 15 KOs), a Los Angeles fighter who was game yet just no good enough in a featherweight eliminator on the Pacquiao-Barrios card at the MGM Grand.

Throughout the middle rounds, it often looked as if Gonzalez was fighting Figueroa to a standstill. It looked to be close in the ring, but not on two of the three scorecards. Both favored Figueroa 116-112. The third had it 115-113, also for Figueroa, a Texas fighter still in the hunt for another bel

Gary Russell Jr. scores four knockdowns for stoppage win

Gary Russell Jr., more idle than active, still possessed enough power and poise  to dominate, knocking down Hugo Castaneda twice in the second round and again in the sixth enroute to 

Castaneda, a lightweight from Mexico, came roaring back in apparent desperation in the fourth, driving the 37-year-old Russell (32-2, 19 KOs) into the ropes. But a sweeping right hook from Russell, an ex-featherweight champion from Washington DC, ,dropped Castaneda in the sixth. Yet, Castaneda (15-3-1, 11 KOs), ever resilient, continued to march forward, all the while throwing a succession of punches. 

Yet he could never hurt Russell, or even knock him off balance. In the end, Russell power was decisive, including a fourth knockdown in the 10th, ending the fight at 26 seconds of the round

Nothing artistic, but PIcasso wins majority decision

It wasn’t artistic, but Mexican junior-featherweight David Picasso did enough to win and perhaps keep himself in contention for a  possible shot at Naoya Inoue.

Picasso (32-0-1, 18 KOs), who turned down a chance to fight Inoue months ago,  struggled throughout a close 10-round fight against Inoue’s fellow Japanese fighter, Kyonosuke Kameda (15-5-2, 9 KOs), who appeared to mock him in the middle rounds. Kameda dropped his hands, stuck out his chin and shook his rear end.

The gestures proved to be an opportunity for Picasso, who applied fundamentals at MGM Grad., many of which scored often enough for him to escape with a 95-95, 97-93, 98-92 majority decision on the Pacquiao-Barios card.

Mark Magsayo wins one-sided decision

He had a little bit more experience. HIs feet were a little bit quicker. His hands were a little bit faster. 

Little added up to a lot, allowing Mark Magsayo to score efficiently and repeatedly in a one-sided, yet otherwise uneventful decision over Jorge Mata in a junior-lightweight bout Saturday on the card featuring Manny Pacquiao’s comeback against Mario Barrios.

Magsayo (28-2, 18 KOs), a Filipino who briefly held the World Boxing Council’s featherweight title in 2020. began to take control of the bout in the fourth round when he backed up Mata (41-3-2, 13 KOs) with a body-to-head assault. Still, Mata, of Mexico managed to endure, but never much more than that, losing by a wide margin on all three cards — 100-90, 98-92,100-90.   

First Bell: Filipino prospect drops the thunder, wins TKO

It opened with a Filipino beat.

Beat-down

Middleweight prospect Eumir Marcial warmed up the ring for fellow Filipino Manny Pacquiao with a heavy-handed stoppage of Bernard Joseph in a Saturday matinee, hours before Pacquiao would take the stage in his comeback against Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand.

Marcial (6-0, 4 KOs), a 2020 Olympic bronze medalist, dropped Joseph (11-3-1, 5 KOs), of Dorchester MA, in the second and again in the third. A succession of shots in the third thundered throughout the empty arena, ending the bout in a TKO at 1:55 of the round. 

LAS VEGAS – July 16, 2025 – Before they step into the ring on a jam-packed PBC event, undercard fighters went face-to-face at a press conference Thursday to preview their respective showdowns taking place this Saturday, July 19 in a PBC event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference featured WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Australia superstar Tim Tszyu, who will meet in the co-main event of a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.

Also competing in pay-per-view action and facing off Thursday were Mexican rivals Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and Angel Fierro, who meet in a 12-round rematch, plus former two-division champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and featherweight contender Joet Gonzalez, who kick off the pay-per-view with a WBA Featherweight Title Eliminator at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The press conference also included fighters competing on the three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup that precedes the pay-per-view. The show will see former world champion Gary Russell Jr. take on Hugo Castañeda in the 10-round main event, unbeaten super bantamweight contender David “Rey” Picasso face Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda, and former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo battle Jorge Mata in the opening attraction at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

These fights will lead up to the much anticipated showdown between Hall of Famer Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios as it tops a four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video.

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

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from MGM Grand:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“This is gonna be a great fight. It was so nice we had to do it twice. We’re gonna put on a great show Saturday night.

“Anything can happen in boxing. That first fight was a reminder. I just had to stick to the plan and that’s what I did.

“I feel very confident. I felt confident in the first fight. We had to run this back. Damage is gonna be done.

“He fought the whole fight with the cut. If he had such a big problem with the cut, the corner would have stopped it. That’s just what I think. I can only speak from my perspective. If he’s fighting, he’s fine.

“I prepare the same way I always prepare. I’m here at the top level and I’m a world champion. The strategies we’ve had have been successful. I’m gonna keep doing what we’ve been doing and win.

“We trained hard for this. This is the dream we worked for. We want to continue to be world champion and build a legacy in this sport.

“We have an icon in Manny Pacquiao in the main event to remind us all that we can be that guy. I’m very motivated for this fight and happy to be here in Las Vegas at the best venue for boxing. We’re gonna put on a great show.”

TIM TSZYU

“You dream of these moments as a young kid and to finally be here for this moment is a pleasure of mine.

“We’re gonna put on one hell of a show. He shoulda killed me the first time, because this time it’s gonna be a whole different story.

“With a proper preparation to see what works and doesn’t work, it’ll play a big part in what happens in the ring. I’m going to have a better and more intelligent performance.

“With adversity, my desire to win only grows. The past has made me who I am today and that’s a dangerous fighter willing to take it all. This is a new phase I’m in. I’m smarter, hungrier and more confident.

“This is what we do. We’re both in it to the very end. At the end of the day, we hop in the ring and we risk it all. We’re perfect dance partners and we bring the best out of each other.

“I’ve never been a guy who’s afraid to get hit. Sometimes you have to take a few to leave a few. That’s just the sport.

“When I come into the ring I come in with the mentality that I’ll do anything to win. I was never going to stop that fight. I’m always in there to finish the fight to the very end. I would have hated it if the corner had stopped the first fight.

“The cut distracted me in the first fight. That’s what I was thinking about in the corner and that presents challenges. He said that I could see clearly, but I obviously couldn’t. That’s why we need the rematch. There are questions to be answered and we’ll answer them.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I want the fans to be the true winners on Saturday. It’s gonna be a great fight and I can’t wait to get into the ring.

“I’ve fought plenty of fighters who like to talk trash before the fight. All I can do is prepare my hardest. My goal is not to trash talk, it’s to win world titles.

“I’ve focused on my preparation. I feel strong and ready to go. I’m not focused on what happened in the first fight.

“I’m always here to provide great fights for the fans. I fight for them. It doesn’t matter who I’m facing. I’m going to give the fans their money’s worth.

“I’m glad he’s coming for war. He’s gonna have to watch out. We’re in for a great fight on Saturday night.”

ANGEL FIERRO

“You saw in February that it was a war and this will be the same thing once again. I’m very thankful to be on this stacked card. It doesn’t get better than this.

“On Saturday, everything that was in doubt in February is gonna get cleared up. I promise you that.

“The judges made their decision. I decided to move forward and clear everything up on Saturday night. I’m gonna leave no doubt and get my hand raised.

“I’m a man of my word. I’m gonna try my best out there. It’s either ‘Pitbull’ or me, only one of us can remain standing. I have to make sure that I’m standing on top.

“We’re two runaway trains without breaks. We’re gonna go out there and brawl. I’ve focused on my training and I’m ready to show what a true Mexican war is all about.

“I have a better strategy this time around. If he thinks I’m gonna run, I say hell no. I’m here to clash and go toe-to-toe.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“This is a stacked card on Saturday and I can’t wait to fight alongside these great warriors. I’m coming with everything.

“This training camp has been amazing with Manny Robles. I was away from my family this time because I want to be at the elite level and make sacrifices. I’ll do anything to be the best in the world.

“I’m in the best shape of my life. I had a great connection with Manny Robles and I’m feeling strong and confident. The passion that I have for this sport is immense, and I can’t wait to go out there and dance on Saturday night.

“This sport is very demanding, but I love to be a part of it. I’m living my dreams fighting on the biggest stages. My brother Omar paved the way for me and I’m grateful to keep it going.

“Gonzalez is an aggressive fighter just like me. I’m gonna leave it all out there in the ring. I’m bringing everything.”

JOET GONZALEZ

“I’m very excited for this fight. I’m extremely motivated to give everyone a great fight on Saturday, and most importantly get that win.

“I’m expecting an exciting matchup. I know he’s very hungry to get back on the winning track. I’m expecting the best Brandon there’s ever been. But I’m planning to get that victory.

“I just have to beat him in every aspect. Whether its boxing or toe-to-toe. I just have to beat him in every way possible and get my hand raised.”

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“I had a great camp. This is a 10-round fight and I don’t expect it to go all 10 rounds.

“I’m just excited to be back. I’ve been focused on everyone else for the past few years. Now I have the time to focus on what I want to do, and that’s this fight on Saturday.

“Hopefully everyone will see what you’re accustomed to seeing and that’s boxing excellence at it’s best. I worked hard and trained hard, and may the best man win.

“The Mexican fighters are like our cousins, so it’s a family affair. I’m glad that he took the fight and I take my hat off to him.”

HUGO CASTAÑEDA

“I’m here to warm the ring up for Manny Pacquiao. It’s gonna be an amazing night. I’m here to get the win.

“This is a great opportunity and I know that I’m facing a great champion. But I’m from Mexico, and we’re bad asses.

“I’m ready for war and you’re gonna see what Mexicans from Reynoso are all about.”

DAVID PICASSO

“I’m so happy for this opportunity. We’re going to be ready for Saturday night. I’m prepared to win and go after all of the world titles.

“I’m ready to go the distance, but if the knockout comes earlier, even better.

“I’ve prepared very intensely. I tried to surpass my own limits. Once I step into the ring, I’m going to fight like it’s the last fight of my life. Like it’s for a world title. That’s just what I do.”

KYONOSUKE KAMEDA

“This is gonna be a great fight on Saturday. This is my moment to take. I’m going to steal the show on Saturday and go on to fight for the title.

“I’ve trained really hard with one goal in mind. I want the world title fight. I’m going to beat David Picasso and that’s the only thing I’m focused on. I’m gonna win by first round knockout.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“I’m so excited to be on this undercard for Manny Pacquaio. It’s Philippines vs. Mexico and we’re gonna give the fans a great fight.

“This rivalry means good fights. We’re going to give the fans a show and leave everything in the ring. I’m glad we’re keeping this rivalry going.

“We’re just focused on this fight. This is what we’ve worked for. We’ll worry about the rest later. I just want to give the fans a great fight.”

JORGE MATA

“This is gonna be an amazing fight, you won’t want to miss it. This is a great opportunity and I’ve prepared like never before. The fans will be the true winners on Saturday night.”

#         #         #

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BARRIOS

Pacquiao vs. Barrios will see Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios square off in the main event of a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Australian superstar Tim Tszyu will rematch after engaging in 2024’s bloodiest fight.

The action will also feature Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro meeting for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel after their action packed February clash, plus former two-division world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and top contender Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a 12-round WBA Featherweight Title Eliminator.

Preceding the pay-per-view, champion Gary Russell Jr. tops a three fight card streaming live on Prime Video, as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a 10-round lightweight showdown.

The action also includes undefeated top super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso dueling Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda in a 10-round affair, plus Filipino power-puncher and former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo battles Mexico’s Jorge Mata in a 10-round super featherweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #PacquiaoBarrios, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

GARY RUSSELL JR., DAVID PICASSO & MARK MAGSAYO VIRTUAL MEDIA AVAILABILITY QUOTES

Fighters Preview Respective PBC on Prime Video Showdowns Streaming Live Preceding Pacquiao vs. Barrios Pay-Per-View on Saturday, July 19 from the

MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

Click HERE for Video Recording

(Credit: Premier Boxing Champions)

LAS VEGAS – July 9, 2025 – Former world champion Gary Russell Jr., top super bantamweight contender David “Rey” Picasso and former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo held virtual media availability on Wednesday to preview their respective showdowns featured on a stacked PBC on Prime Video lineup Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and preceding a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video headlined by Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao challenging WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios.

Topping the streaming presentation is the return of the former longtime featherweight world champion Russell Jr. as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a 10-round lightweight showdown.

The undefeated super bantamweight Picasso will duel Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda in a 10-round affair, while the Filipino power-puncher Magsayo battles Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in a 10-round super featherweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

These fights lead into a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video that features a loaded PPV undercard preceding the Pacquiao vs. Barrios main event. In the co-main event, WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Australian superstar Tim Tszyu look to eclipse 2024’s bloodiest fight in their championship rematch. Plus, Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meets his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel, while former two-division world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and top contender Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a 10-round featherweight showdown.

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

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“It’s great to be back. I’m excited to be able to get back out there. The last time I competed was over three years ago and I’m ready to do what I love doing best.

“Boxing is a lifestyle for me. In my last fight I got injured and still thought I did enough to get the win. I always wanted to come back to the sport. I lost my father and one of my younger brothers, so there was a lot that held me back. I also took time to train my younger brothers. I had to take the time to focus and regroup. Now I’m ready to come back to the sport.

“Life is about overcoming obstacles that come your way. You have to have mental resiliency. I’m glad that I’m strong-minded enough to stay tunnel-visioned.

“Now that I’m competing again, my younger brothers are helping to train me. It’s cool for the dynamics to switch like that. Even a king needs to be open-minded for constructive criticism. I’m using it all as fuel for progression.

“I’m getting the good fight nerves. It’s really more excitement the closer we get to the fight. I’m glad that I’ll be ready to go out there and display my skillset to the world.

“Mark Magsayo says he’s in for a rematch, but his promoters might not be glad he said that. Because it’s real over here.

“We have to decide who’s the best in the area, so that would make Gervonta Davis or Lamont Roach an interesting opponent. I want to figure out who the best is in our area of the country.”

DAVID PICASSO

“I’m just so excited to fight on a card like this. Manny Pacquiao is a boxer who I idolize and who has motivated me to chase my dreams. Fighting before him is a great honor. I know this fight is the most important in my career because I want to fight for the world championship in December.

“I’ve just been training all the time in between every fight. I’m only focused on the fight in front of me, even though I want to fight for the title in December. Kameda is a rangier fighter, so I’ll need to use my movement and still make it exciting.

“This is my second fight in Las Vegas and I know the Mexican fans there love my style. I’m so excited to be fighting in front of those fans.

“All of my life I’ve been preparing to become a world champion. Ever since I was seven-years-old. This fight is everything for me. This can change my life. I have to win this fight.

“Life is full of challenges, but you have to focus on what’s in front of you. July 19 is the most important thing in my life. Once that’s over, we can see what the next step will be. I have to stay mentally focused.

“Every fight is a championship fight for me. Everything is about boxing. When boxing is your life, it’s a true passion. It makes every fight a world title fight.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“When I knew that Pacquiao was coming back, I wanted to be on that undercard and my wish has come true. I’m so excited to get into the ring.

“It’s an honor to be on the undercard of a legend. I can’t wait to showcase my talent and I know that I’m going to be at my best.

“My losses at featherweight were largely because of the weight. I was too dehydrated. I had planned to already move up in weight.

“My coach and I are speaking the same language and he’s taught me a new style and new techniques. I’m very grateful to have Marvin Somodio in my corner.

“I think this will be a toe-to-toe fight. He’s a good fighter so I’m not underestimating him. I’m going to do my best to entertain the fans and if the knockout presents itself, I’ll take advantage.

“I’ll fight anybody in my division. Whichever champion is willing to step up to the plate. Whoever my promoter’s say is available, I’ll be ready for them.

“This is my stepping stone to the next level. I need to win this fight. The next fight I’m looking for is a world title fight.”

#

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BARRIOS

Pacquiao vs. Barrios will see Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios square off in the main event of a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Australian superstar Tim Tszyu will rematch after engaging in 2024’s bloodiest fight.

The action will also feature Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro meeting for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel after their action packed February clash, plus former two-division world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and top contender Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a 10-round featherweight showdown.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #PacquiaoBarrios, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – July 2, 2025 – A loaded three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup will see the return of two former world champions and a battle of super bantamweight contenders all leading up to a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video headlined by Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao continuing his legendary career by challenging WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios on Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Topping the streaming presentation is the return of former longtime featherweight world champion Gary Russell Jr. as he steps back into the ring to face Hugo Castañeda in a 10-round lightweight showdown.

The action also includes undefeated top super bantamweight David “Rey” Picasso dueling Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda in a 10-round affair, plus Filipino power-puncher and former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo battles Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in a 10-round super featherweight attraction opening the show at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

These fights lead into a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video that features a loaded PPV undercard preceding the Pacquiao vs. Barrios main event. In the co-main event, WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Australian superstar Tim Tszyu look to eclipse 2024’s bloodiest fight in their championship rematch. Plus, Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meets his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel, while former two-division world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and top contender Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a 10-round featherweight showdown.

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

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

**GARY RUSSELL JR. VS. HUGO CASTAÑEDA **

Returning to action for the first time since his nearly seven-year title run ended in a fight where he injured his shoulder, Gary Russell Jr. will look to show off the skills that made him boxing’s then longest reigning male champion as he makes his lightweight debut in a 10-round fight against veteran Hugo Castañeda.

Russell (31-2, 18 KOs) has stayed close to the sport since last fighting, keeping his late father Gary Sr.’s legacy going by training his younger brothers, WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Gary Antuanne and contender Gary Antonio. The Capitol Heights, Md., native first captured the WBC Featherweight World Championship in March 2015 by stopping former multiple division champion Jhonny Gonzalez, and held it until losing a majority decision to Mark Magsayo in January 2022. His run as champion included a stoppage of former world champion Kiko Martinez, and a dominant unanimous decision over former world champion Joseph Diaz Jr., both of whom went on to win championships after losing to Russell.

“I’m so glad to be back on this great event on July 19 in Las Vegas,” said Russell. “I’m ready to shake off the dust and entertain by doing what I love. Make sure you tune in to see me do my thing.”

Originally from Reynoso, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Castañeda (15-2-1, 11 KOs) has ended each of his last three victories by knockout, including an upset over the previously unbeaten Felix Garcia in April 2024. Most recently, Castañeda came up short in an April clash against undefeated prospect Demler Zamora. Now fighting out of Alamo, Texas, the 23-year-old will step into the ring stateside for the sixth time as a professional, where he’s amassed a 3-2 record. Castañeda turned pro in 2021, racking up wins in his first 12 bouts.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m coming to take full advantage of it,” said Castañeda. “I know that I’m facing a great fighter who’s accomplished a lot, but I have everything it takes to get the victory. I’m training hard to be at my best and show everyone what I can do on July 19.”

**DAVID PICASSO VS. KYONOSUKE KAMEDA**

Already owning the WBC Silver title, along with being ranked top five by The Ring and top 10 by the WBO at 122-pounds, the undefeated David “Rey” Picasso will look to continue his ascent toward a super bantamweight world championship when he faces Japanese contender Kyonosuke Kameda in a 10-round attraction.

The 24-year-old Picasso (31-0-1, 17 KOs) hopes to paint another masterpiece and keep his perfect record intact as he makes his 2025 debut following a 2024 campaign that saw him score five victories. Picasso’s big year included triumphs over two former title challengers, as he stopped Damien Vazquez in May and earned a 12-round unanimous decision over Azat Hovhannisyan in August. A native of Mexico City, Picasso closed the year in December with a third round TKO over Yehison Cuello.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity and proud to be part of this card headlined by the legendary Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas,” said Picasso. “Facing Kameda will be a tremendous challenge, but I’m preparing diligently so that I walk out of the ring with my hands raised on July 19. I’m ready to show the world what we’re made of and move closer to a year-end title opportunity.”

A cousin of Japan’s world champion Kameda brothers, Kameda (15-4-2, 9 KOs) will look to bounce back from a February defeat to former two-division world champion Luis Nery. The 26-year-old entered that fight on a five-fight winning streak, with one draw sandwiched between his last eight victories. A native of Osaka, Kameda will make his U.S. debut on July 19, having previously fought exclusively in Japan before he challenged Nery in Mexico.

“I’m very excited to make my U.S. debut on July 19 in Las Vegas,” said Kameda. “I’ve gained great experience from my last fight and I’m going to bring it into the ring against Picasso. I come from a family of world champions and I know that I have to do whatever it takes to get my hand raised.”

**MARK MAGSAYO VS. JORGE MATA CUELLAR**

A former world champion at 126-pounds, the Filipino power-puncher Mark Magsayo steps into the ring looking to impress on the undercard of his idol Manny Pacquiao, as he continues his run at super featherweight by challenging Mexico’s Jorge Mata Cuellar in their 10-round opening attraction on Prime Video.

Magsayo (27-2, 18 KOs) captured the WBC 126-pound world title in 2022 by defeating former longtime reigning champion Gary Russell Jr. via decision. Originally from Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines and now fighting out of Southern California, Magsayo dropped the title to Rey Vargas via a narrow split-decision in a July 2022 contest that saw Magsayo send Vargas to the canvas in round nine. Magsayo would go on to engage in a memorable toe-to-toe battle with former champion Brandon Figueroa in March 2023, losing the decision after 12 rounds. Since that fight, Magsayo has won three straight, including knockouts over Isaac Avelar and Bryan Mercado, plus a unanimous decision over Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez.

“It’s an incredible feeling to be back fighting on the undercard of my idol Manny Pacquiao for a second time,” said Magsayo. “I’m extremely grateful to my whole team for the opportunity. It’s surreal to be training and fighting alongside Manny every day. It brings back memories of being eight-years-old and watching him fight for the first time. Even with all of this, I’m locked in on my goal of becoming a two division world champion. I can’t wait to step into the ring and give the fans an exciting fight. I feel great at this weight and I know that I’m facing a tough Mexican fighter. We’re both going to be ready to give the fans fireworks on July 19!”

The 24-year-old Cuellar (21-2-2, 13 KOs) enters his July 19 showdown on a five-fight winning streak that followed a narrow split-decision loss to Jose Luis Vazquez Hernandez in August 2023. A product of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Cuellar will be fighting in the U.S. for the first time when he steps in against Magsayo. The eight-year pro has shown his ability to fight into later rounds, as his last three fights have all gone the 10 round distance, and all in his favor.

“This is going to be another great toe-to-toe Mexico vs. Philippines battle,” said Cuellar. “I’m extremely motivated to be facing a former champion like Magsayo on a huge event headlined by Manny Pacquiao. On July 19, I’ll leave it all in the ring and give the fans a fight that they’re going to love.”

#         #         #

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BARRIOS

Pacquiao vs. Barrios will see Hall of Fame boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios square off in the main event of a star-studded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, July 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Australian superstar Tim Tszyu will rematch after engaging in 2024’s bloodiest fight.

The action will also feature Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and his hard-hitting countryman Angel Fierro meeting for a second time in a 12-round super lightweight duel after their action packed February clash, plus former two-division world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and top contender Joet Gonzalez kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with a 10-round featherweight showdown.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #PacquiaoBarrios, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

By Norm Frauenheim

PHOENIX — Plans for Naoya Inoue’s return to the United States next spring already include a possible opponent.

Mexican David Picasso, an artistic name and perhaps an opportunity for Inoue to enhance his masterpiece of a career, is being mentioned as a possibility for the Japanese pound-for-pound contender in a possible April fight in Las Vegas.

“It’s on the table,’’ Rene Aviles, of Zanfer Promotions, said Friday while in Phoenix for the Oscar Valdez-Emanuel Navarrete rematch Saturday at Footprint Center. “Nothing is set, but that’s the plan.’’

Picasso (30-0-1, 16 KOs), a Zanfer-promoted junior-featherweight from Mexico City, has appeared on two major cards in the U.S., first in January of last year in a victory over Erik Ruiz at Footprint and again in a victory in May over Damien Vazquez at Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

Inoue (28-0, 25 KOs), a four-division champion who hasn’t fought in the United States since a victory in June 2021 in Vegas, is already scheduled to test his pound-for-pound supremacy against Australian junior-featherweight Sam Goodman (19-0, 8 KOs) on Dec. 24 in Tokyo.

“On Christmas Eve, I’ll be there,’’ said Top Rank’s Bob Arum, who will celebrate his 93rd birthday Sunday. “If successful, then we’ll announce his next fight, hopefully in Las Vegas.’’

LAS VEGAS–The face of Mexican boxing has aged.

But it hasn’t changed.

It’s still Canelo, now bearded, yet still proud and stubborn That inexhaustible streak of stubborn pride was there, a force that withstood a younger man’s challenge throughout 12 rounds Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena.

Canelo Alvarez won it, scoring a unanimous decision over fellow Mexican Jaime Munguia.

“It means a lot,’’ Canelo (61-2-2, 3 KOs) said moments after the 117-110, 116-111, 115-112 scores were announced. ‘’I like this guy a lot. He is gentleman.”

But, he went on to say: “I’m the best. I’m the best fighter right now.’’

He might get an argument from Terence Crawford or Naoya Inoue. David Benavidez, who was in the T-Mobile crowd, might want a chance to prove him wrong. But on this night, there was no argument, especially from the 27-year-old Munguia (43-1, 34 KOs).

In the fourth, Canelo began to exert control. The spring in Munguia’s opening step was gone. He dropped his left hand.

Canelo saw it and capitalized with predatory instinct. He landed a wicked uppercut, followed by a body shot. Suddenly, Munguia was down on the canvas, his eyes empty of an earlier confidence.

For the next couple of rounds, Canelo ruled, patiently and thoroughly. By then, Munguia knew there was still power in the older man’s hands. He was wary. He was smart.

He knew what he had seen in Canelo’s last several fights. He had studied the video. Munguia would wait until the seventh to re-assert himself in an effort to test the theory that Canelo tires in the second half of fights.

In the opening moments of the seventh, Munguia backed Canelo up and into his corner.

But Canelo didn’t stay there. He stepped forward and broke through Munguia’s up-raised gloves with punches accented by deadly power.

It was a pivotal moment, a sure sign that Canelo was there to go the distance. He stood his ground in the eighth, the ninth and the 10th. He took punches. Landed punches.

“I took my time,”

Canelo said. “I have a lot of experience. Munguia is a great fighter. He’s strong and smart. But I have 12 rounds to win the fight and I did. I did really good, and I’m proud of it.

“He’s strong, but he’s a little slow. I could see every punch. That’s why I’m the best.”

At times, it looked like a standoff. But Canelo went into the final two rounds with a key edge. He had that fourth-round knockdown in the bank and he would fight to protect it with experience, tactical knowhow and stamina not often seen in the super-middleweight champion over the last couple of years.

In the first round, Munguia’s length and quick hands seemed to surprise Canelo.

On young legs, Munguia moved side to side, again seemingly surprising Canelo with his athleticism.

In the second, a wary Canelo began to look for a way to slow down Munguia. He landed a couple of warning shots, first a body blow and then a quick combo.

But Munguia, looking like a tireless kid on the playgrounds, responded by bouncing on his toes and firing straight shots at a backpedaling Canelo.

“I came out strong and was winning the early rounds,” Munguia said. “I let my hands go, but he’s a fighter with a lot of experience. The loss hurts because it’s my first loss and I felt strong.” 

The announced crowd of more than 17,000 was divided. For some, the young Munguia has a working-class appeal no longer there in the wealthy, celebrated Canelo.

Munguia’s entrance was cheered by folks in cheaper seats in T-Mobile’s upper deck.

Then, there was Canelo, cheered by folks in expensive seats on the floor and in the lower bowl.

At opening bell, the arena was a clash of chants.

First, Munguia, Munguia.

Then, Canelo, Canelo.

In the end, there was only Canelo.

Still Canelo.

Marios Barrios wins unanimous decision

Mario Barrios, a junior-welterweight champion and an emerging welterweight, scored a knockdown, but not a knockout out of a name synonymous with resilience.

Fabian Maidana is not as well-known as his brother, Marcos Maidana.

But the name sticks around mostly because the brothers know how to. Marcos did it against Floyd Mayweather Jr. Fabian did it against a bigger, stronger Barrios in a. fight for an interim 147-pound title in the last boutt before the Canelo Alvarez-Jaime Munguia main event at T-Mobile Arena Saturday night.

Barrios (29-2, 18 KOs), of San Antonio, put Fabian (22-3, 16 KOs), of Argentina, on

to the canvas with a straight right hand in the second round. Then, it looked as if the end was near. But it was not. Fabian kept coming back, kept rocking Barrios’ head with piston-like pouches that started with an accurate jab. By the end of the 12-round bout, Barrios’ right eye was an ugly welt, swollen shut

Barrios had trouble seeing.  But not winning. On the judges cards, it was unanimous, 116-111 on all three, for Barrios. He won, but not as easily as expected because of another Maidana

Figueroa knocks out Magdaleno

Jessie Magdaleno had no chance at winning the title. Turns out, he didn’t have much of a chance against Brandon Figueroa either.

Magdaleno (29-3, 18 KOs), who forfeited his eligibility for a World Boxing Council’s interim belt when he failed to make weight, was simply no match for the busier, stronger Figueroa (25-1-1, 19 KOs), of Weslaco TX.

In the opening rounds of the featherweight bout on the Canelo-Munguia card, Magdaleno tried to smother Figueroa. Instead, he often smothered any potential excitement. In the fifth, however, Figueroa delivered a low blow, a painful uppercut. Magdaleno fell. He was on hands and knees. His face was flat on the canvas. He was in evident pain. Somehow, he recovered, but not enough to give him a shot at victory.

In the ninth, Figueroa finished him, first with a sweeping right hook and then body shot. At 2:59 of the round. referee Allen Huggins counted Magdaleno out.

Stanionis retains welterweight title

Eimantas Stanionis, cool and efficient throughout 12 rounds, controlled pace, distance and — in the end — the World Boxing Association’s welterweight title.

In only his first title defense, Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOS) fought with the authority of a longtime champion, leaving challenger Gabriel Maestre (6-1-1, 5 KOs) few opportunities in a one-sided display of patience and tactical skill. 

Maestre, of Venezuela, was never off his feet. But he never had much of a chance either, losing a unanimous decision to the unbeaten Lithuanian on the Canelo-Munguia card.

Jesus Ramos back with a knockout

It was the right way to end a comeback.

Jesus Ramos (21-1, 17 KOs), a junior-middleweight prospect from Casa Grande AZ,  punctuated his  with a stoppage, a technical knockout of a tough Venezuelan, Johan Gonzalez (34-3, 33 KOs) Saturday on the card featuring Canelo Alvarez-Jaime Munguia at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

Ramos, fighting for the first since his lone loss — a controversial decision to Erickson Lubin in September, began to take control of the fight in the fifth. He was moving forward, stubbornly forward, with powerful shots that drove Gonzalez into the ropes. In the sixth, however, a head butt left Ramos with a nasty cut over his left eye. 

The bloody gash seemed to take away much of Ramos’ momentum. But he regained it with heavy-handed shots delivered from a crouch.. His hands were down. 

But the power was deadly. In the ninth, it finished Gonzalez, first with a left-handed counter that put him on his back. Then there was a succession of blows, including a big right hand that knocked Gonzalez again. At 2:56 of the ninth, it was over, Ramos a TKO winner and and presumably on his way back to being a young fighter with championship potential  

BELOW BOUTS BY MARC ABRAMS

World-ranked junior middleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. hammered out a 10-round unanimous decision over Ronald Cruz.

At the end of round three, Mielnicki dropped Cruz with a left hook just as the bell sounded. Mielnicku dumped him again with the same punch just before round four concluded.

Mielnicki landed 187 of 605 punches. Cruz was 143 of 460.

Mielnicki, 153.6 lbs of Roseland, NJ won by scores of 99-89, 98-90 and 96-92 and is now 18-1. Cruz, 153.2 lbs of Los Angeles is 19-4-2.

Alan David Picasso remained undefeated by stopping former world title challenger Damien Vazquez in round five of their 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Picasso, 121 lbs of Mexico City is now 28-0-1 with 16 knockouts. Vazquez, 122.2 lbs of Las Vegas is 17-4-1.

William Scrull scored a knockdown en-route to an eight-round unanimous decision over Sean Hemphill in a super middleweight bout.

Scrull dropped Hemphill in round five in the fight which eventually led to scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 76-75.

Scrull, 167.2 lbs of Matanzas, CUB is now 22-0. Hemphill, 167.4 lbs of New Orleans is now 16-2.

Lawrence King won a six-round unanimous decision over Anthony Holloway in a light heavyweight contest.

King, 181.2 lbs of San Bernadino, CA won by scores of 59-55 on all cards and is now 16-1. Holloway, 177.4 lbs of Peoria, IL is 7-4-3.

Adrian Torres won a six-round unanimous decision over Arsen Poghosyan in a lightweight bout.

Torres, 136.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 8-0. Poghosyan, 126.2 lbs of Yerevan, ARM is 3-2-1.

Julian Bridges won a six-round unanimous decision over Jabin Chollet in a battle of undefeated super lightweights

Bridges, 138.4 lbs of Antioch, CA won by scores of 59-55 on all cards and is now 5-0. Chollet, 139.8 lbs of San Diego is 9-1.

PHOENIX — A statement was demanded.

Statement delivered.

Jaime Munguia did what Canelo Alvarez could not. He stopped a tough, smart John Ryder Saturday night in a super-middleweight fight that was a test of Munguia’s potential.

There’s plenty of that, perhaps enough for him to land a Canelo fight projected to be in May. It’s all up to Canelo, whose pay-per-view clout and celebrity comes with a perk. He does what he wants to.

It’s anybody’s guess as to whether he wants the Munguia that 10,836 fans at Footprint Center saw against Ryder, whose corner threw in the towel at 1:25 of the ninth round.

“It would be an honor to be in the same ring with him,’’ Munguia (43-0, 34 KOs) said when asked the inevitable Canelo question.

Canelo or not, there’s one thing certain about Munguia, a 27-year-old fighter from Tijuana. He stepped out of the ring with enhanced credibility.

He’s a player, a proven threat at 168 pounds. Put him alongside David Benavidez, David Morrell, Edgar Berlanga and Jermall Charlo.

“I was ready for this,’’ he said. “I knew I was ready for this.’’

He knew more than just about anybody other than his Hall of Fame trainer, Freddie Roach. Roach predicated Munguia would win an eighth-round TKO. Roach missed by only a round.

Munguia did it with four knockdowns of Ryder (32-7, 18 KOs), a 35-year-old fighter who faces some tough question about whether his career has come to end.

Munguia knocked down Ryder in the second with a body shot that left a nasty red mark Ryder’s right side. He knocked down the UK fighter again in the fourth with successive left hands.

Then, there was the ninth. There was a right to the top head. Ryder was down for a third time. Then another blow to the head. Ryder was down for a fourth time. The towel soon followed, a sign of surrender for Ryder and the beginning of a second chapter for the emerging Munguia.

 Minimum Weight, Max Power: Oscar Collazo retains title 

It’s called minimum. Somehow, that isn’t quite fair to Oscar Collazo.

Maximum is more like it.

Collazo, the World Boxing Organization’s minimum weight champion flashed max power, knocking Reyneris Gutierrez, into the ropes and then flat on the canvas before the referee interceded and stopped it for third-round TKO Saturday night on the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder featured card at Footprint Center.

First, it was a huge right hand form Collazo (9-0, 7 KOs) that drove Gutierrez (10-2, 2 KOs) into the ropes. If not for those ropes, The Nicaraguan would have tumbled out of the ring, over the work table and onto the floor. Then, it was a left hand from the Puerto Rican. This time, no ropes were in the way. Gutierrez hit the deck. Moments later, it was over, a TKO:at 37 seconds of the third.

Darius Fulghum  wins a unanimously-booed dud

It was a fight full of clinches, missed punches, rabbit punches, boos  and more boos. There was even the wave.

Just when you thought it was extinct, Darius Fulghum and Alantez Fox brought it back. That’s how bad their super-middleweight fight was on the DAZN-streamed undercard for the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder mnin event at Footprint Center Saturday night.

The booing started in the second round. It got louder, even louder, until a near capacity crowd just bored. It started doing the wave. Yeah, that wave. Hands up, stand up and sit down, going from section to section in an undulating ring around the arena. Hey, it was better than watching the fight.

By the way, Fulghum (10-, 9 KOs), of Houston, won it, scoring a majority

 decision over Fox (28-6-1, 13 KOs), of Upper Marlboro MD. 

Not so sweet stoppage

Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora 12-0 (9KOs) made her first women’s IBF Flyweight title defense VS Christina Cruz 6-0. The fight was a battle of the sweet science of hit but not get hit, no one fighter looked dominate in the match. One fighter did control the ring through out the fight and was more active with her combinations and stunning her opponent. Fundora was using her ring IQ to cut off the ring and edging out the rounds in her favor in a very close fight. More over as the championship rounds rolled along Gabriela showed the heart of a warrior and took the fight over effortlessly out boxing Cruz. With less than a minute left in the 10th and final round referee Chris Flores stepped in and called a end to the fight in a controversial fashion. Cruz was not hurt and was simply walking away with her guard up still  defending herself. Visibly upset Cruz pleaded her case of why it should not have been stopped with some ringside having it a drawing going into the final round. Coming out on top and staying undefeated Fundora moves to 13-0 (10KOs) in a post fight interview Fundora praised Cruz “Cruz is a good fighter and glad she stepped up” also “I looked to her because she was an olympian and had a picture on my wall as a kid” ending her statement by saying “Cruz is an amazing fighter and it was an honor to share the ring”. When asked about the stoppage Fundora stated “I unleashed on her, and she turned around indicating she no longer wanted to fight”

One can only ask if she deserves a rematch or does the co-promotions between Golden Boy Promotions and Sampson Promotion look to set up a fight for undisputed later this year, Seemingly the road block to undisputed is Marlen Esparza who holds the other 3 tittle and has an upcoming fight that she can not look past herself. Just as her smile, the future is bright for the undefeated fighter of Coachella, CA….David Galaviz

David Picasso scores unanimous decision in U.S. debut

David Picasso wasn’t looking for a masterpiece. 

Just a victory.

He got it.

In his first appearance in the United States, Picasso, an unbeaten featherweight from Mexico City, scored repeatedly early, tired midway, then held on and held off Erik Ruiz in the late rounds.

All of it was enough for Picasso (27-0-1, 15 KOs) to secure a unanimous  decision over Ruiz (17-10-1, 7 KOs), a fighter from Oxnard, Calif., who from round to round got more aggressive in a 10-rounder in the first DAZN-streamed fight on the Munguia-Ryder card at Footprint Center.

Daniel Garcia scores crushing first round stoppage

It was over before a lot of arriving fans ever got to their seats.

Daniel Garcia finished the non-DAZN portion of the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder card in a flash at Footprint Center. Daniel Lugo may have seen it coming. But he couldn’t do much about it.

Garcia (8-0, 6 KOs), an unbeaten  lightweight from Denver, sent a right hand flying over the edge of  Lugo’s upraised gloves. Boom, it landed, crashing off Lugo’s chin and driving his head up and around. By the time some fans looked up, it was over.

Lugo (4-2, 1 KO), of Phoenix was down and out, a stoppage loser at 1:51 of the first round.

Gregory Morales scores unanimous decision, rocks Ron and the crowd

In the third bout of the night Gregory Morales (15-1, 9KOs) of San Antonio, TX faced Ronal Ron (14-4 ,11KOs) in a super featherweight fight 

In a  feel-out first round both fighters saved all their energy for the last 20 seconds of the round with both having success landing punches. It picked right back up in the second. However as the round came to an end, Morales showed head movement and landed some crisp punches. In the theme of the fight, Morales and Ron saved all the excitement for the end of the round. They got the crowd a little excited. There were theatrics coming from Ron. He spit his mouth piece out around the 2:20 mark. A few second later, he was warned about a head butt. The pace of the round had significantly picked up, with both fighters finding their rhythm and timing. Ron was briefly stunned early in the 5th round by a well placed left from Morales.

 As the crowd started chanting “Goyo”, it gave Morales extra motivation, landing a few lefts directly to the chin of Ron. 

A left hook by Morales landed. Over the last three rounds, Morales picked up the production of his pace and dazed his opponent with a multitude of punches. The last round served as the best round for Morales as he landed some great combos that made the crowd get even loader. Morales improved to 16-1 (9KOs), scoring a unanimous decision. In fight that brought the crowd to its fight in the final round.the crowd a good fight. —–David Galaviz

Toe-to-Toe: Gael Cabrera scores knockdown wins decision in tough bout

It was power against resilience.

Gael Cabrera, a Mexican featherweight from Sonora — just south of Arizona, had the power. He needed it, all of it to win. 

Miguel Ceballos, one of two AZ fighters on the Munguia-Ryder card, had the resilience, almost enough of it to score an upset.

But the power prevailed. A straight right hand from Cabrera (4-0, 3 KOs) put Ceballos down in the first round. Then, Cabrera held on, withstanding repeated bursts of energy from Ceballos (2-1, 2 KOs), of Peoria AZ.  Cabrera appeared to tire, but he still had enough power in both hands to keep Ceballos off him. The result: Cabrera won a unanimous decision in a hard-fought fight.

First Bell: Munguia-Ryder card begins with a quick stoppage

It should have been a matinee. But Jonathan Canas turned it into a short subject.

Canas, a lightweight from Santa Ana CA, needed only 64 seconds to finish Kameeko Hall in the opening bout Saturday afternoon on the card featuring Jaime Mungia-John Ryder at Footprint Center.

Canas, still perfect with three knockouts in three fights, delivered a body-to-head combo that put Hall, a winless fighter from Brunswick GA, onto one knee. It was the body shot that hurt him the most. When Hall (0-4) tried to get onto his feet, he got sick to his stomach. At 1:04 of the first, it was over for everybody but the maintenance crew. It had to clean up the mess.

Junior Lightweight world champion Miguel Berchelt moved up to lightweight and stopped Eleazar Valenzuela in round six of a scheduled 10-round bout at The TV Azteca Studios in Mexico City.

At the end of round one, Berchelt dropped Valenzuela with a left hook.

In round six, Berchelt landed a hard right that drove Valenzuela to the ropes. Berchelt followed up with four shots to the head and the bout was stopped.

Berchelt, 135 lbs of is 38-1 with 34 knockouts. Valenzuela, 135 1/2 lbs is 21-14-4.

“Now what follows is the expected fight against Oscar Valdez,” Berchelt said. “Every fan wants to see that fight, and we are ready for that war.

“I felt great, but the altitude Mexico City hit me a little bit. It is not easy to fight in Mexico City, but thank God we got the victory. Eleazar is a tough fighter. He endured everything I threw at him. He gained my respect. My experience as world champion pushed me forward.”

Omar Aguilar remained undefeated by scoring a 1st round stoppage over Dante Jardon in a scheduled 10-round super lightweight bout.

Aguilar landed a big flurry in the corner and the bout stopped.

Aguilar, 140 lbs is 18-0 with 17 knockouts. Jardon, 141 lbs is 32-7.

Alan David Picasso won a eight-round unanimous decision over Florentino Perez in a super bantamweight bout.

In a fight scored by six judges, Picasso, 121 1/4 lbs won by scores of 80-72 on three cards, 79-74, 79-73 and 78-74 to raise his record to 14-1. Perez is 14-6-1.