BRROKLYN, NY–Philadelphia-born Danny Garcia (36-3, 21 KOs) handled Phoenix native Jose Benavídez Jr (27-1-1, 18 KOs) throughout 12 rounds en route to a majority decision at Barclays Center. The larger Benavídez seemingly could not find an answer for Garcia, who seemed loose and quick for the contest. The judges scored the bout 114-114, 116-112 and 117-111.

Garcia landed 233 of 746 punches; Benavidez was 117 of 600.

Danny Garcia: 

“I did take a break going through mental things, things went dark (breaking down crying), I went through anxiety, deep depression, just trying to be strong.

“It was the pressure of life, being a good dad, just letting it out right now (crying) because it was stuck inside, it rained on me for a year and a half and the only way to do better is to fight and I’m a fighter, if you battle anxiety and depression, you can get out of it, that’s what I did today. I fought.

I still battle some days, I have dark days, but I try my best to stay positive, but I feel good, I gave the fans a good fight tonight.

“(Angel) was there with me the whole way. I’m nothing without this man.  I thank him every day, to be Danny Garcia again, people ask me all the time, why do I fight? I make a lot of money. Why does Warren Buffett is still making money? I’m a fighter. This is what I do, what I love to do. Hopefully, I don’t become a meme with the crying face.

“I’d like the rematch with Keith Thurman, he took my ‘0.’ I’ll take Lara for the middleweight title at 155 pounds.”

Angel Garcia:

“Love is the key. Love is the key to everything.” 

Jose Benavidez Jr.:

“I’m happy with my performance. I feel like I did good. I’m fighting in his backyard, one of the best, I took his punches like they were nothing.

“I thought I won the fight. But it is what it is, a loss makes you stronger.

“It’s tough, things don’t always go your way, they’re ups and downs. I try to be positive, like when the doctor said I would never walk again. I didn’t let that get to me. The only one that can stop me is me.

“He’s a great personality, we had a hell of a fight. We’re happy to be here.”

Demirezen Decisions Kownacki in a Slugfest

Turkish heavyweight, Ali Eren Demirezen (17-1, 12 KOs) edged Polish-born Adam Kownacki (20-3, 15 KOs) via unanimous decision in their 10-round heavyweight fight. The bout featured mixed displays of heavyweight power and boxing skill, with both fighters taking damage throughout the 10 rounds. Ultimately, the judges scored the contest 96-94, 97-93 and 97-93 for Demirezen.

The two threw a staggering 1766 punches with Demirezen landing 256 of 915.  Kownacki was 276 of 851, but Demirezen landed more power punches by a 239 to 186 tally.

Ali Eren Demirezen:

“I truly love fighting in the U.S. and I love New York so I said before you will see me more on SHOWTIME and PBC.

“I was nervous because he’s a strong fighter and I could be much better but it’s my first time here and he’d fought here before.”

Adam Kownacki:

“I’m a bit rusty, I think he was getting off first in the exchanges, I didn’t’ sit down as much, I think the rust played a part, being out so long

“I was out of the ring since last October, camp was good but I don’t know, I was letting him get off first, I wasn’t moving my feet, I went back to the old me instead of the first few rounds when I was doing good.

“I have two kids, I’ll have a long talk with my wife to see what I want to do. I’ve had so many fights here, so many great memories, I don’t want to go out like a loser. I would like another fight to leave my fans with a win.”

Russell Stops Barthelemy via controversial sixth round stoppage

Maryland son, Gary Antuanne Russell (15-0, 15 KOs) stopped former world champion and Las Vegas native Rances Barthelemy (29-1-1, 15 KOs) in the sixth round their super lightweight 10-round matchup. The opening rounds of the fight featured heavy-handed actions, with both fighters landing powerful shots. The official stoppage came in a controversial manner, as Barthelemy was dropped from a leaping right hook from Russell.  Barthelemy seemingly beat the 8-count and looked ready to continue fighting. However referee Sharda Murdagh waved the fight off at 50 seconds of round six, handing Russell the TKO victory.

Gary Antuanne Russell:

“First and foremost I want to thank God, I want to tell my father up above I did it for him, we’re going to keep it going for pops, I want to thank showtime for letting me participate. I know Rances was a high-grade class athlete and he wanted to continue. Emotions were high. Whether we or bruised or beaten, as a warrior, you always want to continue but the referee was doing their job and if he was allowed to continue it would have been the same outcome.  I would have gotten him.

“It’s the first of many [without my father] I had to have tunnel vision. This is something my dad instilled in us, no matter what you go through in life and death, two things are inevitable, he raised us to be men and well-rounded men. Being thorough means to be prepared, and he prepared us for boxing and for life outside of boxing. I thank my father and I did what I had to do.

“In the sixth round I had him backing up, I knew he was looking for his right cross and I caught him backing up and I shot my hook and put him down, he was buzzed but he wanted to keep going. He’s a warrior.”

Rances Barthelemy:

“No, they shouldn’t have stopped it. I felt good, it was good shot, I’m not denying that, but they shouldn’t have stopped it.

“I got up and told him I’m fine and I’m good to go

“Of course I want the rematch, but with a different referee.”

Orlando Cuellar – Barthelemy’s Trainer:

“I’m unhappy , this was a good fight these fans paid good money to see, how can you take this opportunity away, he’s been down before and gotten up. He’s fought on. You’re supposed to give your fighter every opportunity to continue. The referee took away the chance for both to show their character, for Rances to continue and for Gary Antuanne to show his character by fighting on in a hard fight. You robbed the fans. We want a rematch but with a different referee.”

–NON TELEVISED ACTION–

Ukrainian-born Sergiy Derevyanchenko (14-4, 10 KOs) decidedly handled San Diego native Joshua Conley (17-4-1, 11 KOs) in their 10-round middleweight bought. The fight went the distance, with all three judges scoring in favor of Derevyanchenko. Two of them scored the contest 99-91 and the last scored it 98-92, officially awarding the Ukrainian the unanimous decision.

Vito Mielnicki JR. (12-1, 8 KOs) of Roseland, New Jersey stopped Jimmy Williams (18-9-2, 6 KOs) of New Haven, Connecticut at 2:12 of the sixth round of their 8-round super welterweight matchup. Mielnicki JR unleased a series of strong blows on Williams, forcing his corner to intervene, providing the New Jersey native with another TKO victory.

Philadelphia native Miguel Román (2-0, 0 KOs) and Baltimore-born Marcus Redd (0-1, 0 KOS) fought to a decision in their super bantamweight four-round bout. Both fighters displayed strong technical boxing during the fight. Romàn, however, won the decision, with all three judges scoring the contest 39-37 in his favor.

Junior Younan (17-0-1, 11 KOs) wasted no time in making a statement against fellow Brooklyn resident Dauren Yeleussinov (10-2-1, 9 KOs) . In the first round of the scheduled eight-round the super middleweight bout, Younan unloaded shots on his opponent, not stopping until the referee stepped between the two  at 1:47 of round 1.

Ricky Lopez (21-5-2, 6 KOS) and Joe Perez (16-6-4, 10 KOS) were looking for knockouts in this fast-paced super featherweight 6-rounder. However, the fight went the distance, ultimately leaving the outcome to the judges. Although one judge scored in favor of San Diego native Joe Perez by a 58-56 tally, the two others did not agree, with both scoring it 57-57, ending the fight in a majority draw.

Ismael Villareal (12-0, 8 KOS) of Bronx, New York dropped and stopped LeShawn Rodriguez(13-1, 10 KOs) of Port Jefferson, New York in the sixth round of their eight-round super welterweight bout to maintain his perfect record. Following a knockdown in the second round, Villareal repeated this in the sixth, Rodriguez got to his feet, but was wobbly, forcing the referee to stop the bout.

Dwyke Flemmings JR (2-0, 2 KOs) of Paterson, New Jersey defeated Angelo Thompson (0-3, 0 KOs) of Irvington, New Jersey via TKO in their super welterweight contest. In the first round, both fighters threw hard shots and landed combinations. This continued in the following round, however, Flemmings JR turned up the intensity, backing Thompson down, with the referee officially stopping the bout at 2:32 of the second round.

BROOKLYN – July 13, 2022 – Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki and top middleweight contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko showed off their skills at a media workout in Brooklyn Wednesday before their respective showdowns on Saturday, July 30 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Kownacki will return to fight at Barclays Center for the 11^th time in his career, as he takes on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in the co-main event live on SHOWTIME. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader is headlined by two-division champion Danny “Swift” Garcia making his 154-pound debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr.

Derevyanchenko, who trains in Brooklyn, will meet Joshua Conley in a 10-round bout that highlights a stacked undercard lineup.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn:

ADAM KOWNACKI

“It’s amazing to be back at Barclays Center. I can’t wait to be back in there. I’m ready to get back in line for a championship fight.

“I just have had to work on my footwork and keeping my hands up. I have to be smart. One shot can change everything. It was some bad luck getting caught in each fight. I tried to make the best out of it and leave everything in the ring. It was a life lesson.

“I’m coming back stronger. I’ve been sparring with no issues to the broken orbital bone. I’m feeling great and I can’t wait to return.

“I want to be active again. I’m focused on this win, and then we can talk about getting back in the ring early next year. It’s tunnel-vision on July 30.

“I really appreciate the fans who have been there to support me. Barclays Center is going to be red and white. I’m excited to feel that atmosphere. Those fans keep me motivated mentally.

“Right now I’m just focused on Demirezen. That’s the man in front of me. I have to tear down that wall that’s in front of me. That’s all I’m focused on.

“I’m facing a strong Olympian who’s got good size, so I’m expecting a great fight. It’s going to be a good test for me, but I’m looking to ace it and move on to better things. Right now, Demirezen has all of my attention.”

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO

“I want to fight any of the champions at middleweight. Jaime Munguia would be a great fight. There’s a lot of strong fighters in the division and I want to face any of them.

“I still feel strong at middleweight. I’m going to keep working and facing the best challengers I can get so that I’m back in title contention.

“I want to come back stronger and I’m ready to show it. I’m always fighting for Ukraine. I represent my country every time I step into the ring.

“It’s always fun to fight at Barclays Center. It’s a big arena and they have amazing crowds. I can’t wait to be back in the ring.

“I feel strong physically. I still have the desire mentally and my body is still responding and able to perform. That’s all I can ask for.

“Everyone will see my improvements on fight night. I’m facing an opponent who can jab and move. He’s not going to be very busy in there, but I know that I have to be ready for his counters.

“This is a big event and I’m excited to be a part of it. I’m very happy to be a part of it and motivated to deliver for the fans.”

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ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ

Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #GarciaBenavidez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook  at           www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

BROOKLYN – June 8, 2022 – Two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia will make his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, June 9 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning Thursday, June 9 at 12 p.m. ET.

Pre-sale tickets are available TODAY at 12 p.m. ET until 10 p.m. ET through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com with the code: BOXING

“This card on July 30 has everything a boxing fan could ask for and is set up to deliver compelling action from start to finish,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Philadelphia’s Danny Garcia has established a strong fan base in Brooklyn and will look to give them a show in his 154-pound debut against the always tough Jose Benavidez Jr. The heavyweight clash in the co-main event will be full of action as well, as popular heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki takes on Ali Eren Demirezen with both fighters looking to take a big step up the heavyweight ladder. Plus, Gary Antuanne Russell has garnered recognition as a future pound-for-pound star and can continue to solidify those credentials battling the crafty former champion Rances Barthelemy opening up the action on SHOWTIME.”

A world champion at 140 and 147 pounds, Garcia (36-3, 21 KOs) owns one of the sports’ most impressive resumes as he now seeks to add a 154-pound title to his list of accomplishments. He returns to fight at Barclays Center for the ninth time, where he headlined the first ever boxing show at the arena in 2012 in his SHOWTIME debut. The Philadelphia native’s run through the super lightweight division saw him defeat a string of champions including Erik Morales, Amir Khan, Zab Judah, Lucas Matthysse, Nate Campbell and Kendall Holt. As a welterweight, the 34-year-old added triumphs over Lamont Peterson, Paulie Malignaggi, and Robert Guerrero, defeating Guerrero for a vacant title in 2016. Garcia’s campaign at welterweight included narrow defeats to some of the sport’s most talented and rugged fighters –Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter, and  unbeaten unified champion Errol Spence Jr.

“I feel blessed,” said Garcia. “I’m back like I never left. I can’t wait to return to the ring in front of the fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, who have always supported me, and for all my fans across the country watching on SHOWTIME. The ‘Danny Garcia Show’ returns July 30 and you don’t want to miss it!”

The 30-year-old Benavídez (27-1-1, 18 KOs) is the older brother of unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavídez and is trained by his father Jose Sr. A long-established contender, Benavídez moved up to super welterweight in his last fight after dropping a 147-pound title showdown to Terence Crawford in October 2018. Benavídez fought Francisco Emanuel Torres to a draw last November, his first action in just over three years. The Phoenix-native had previously earned wins over contenders such as Mauricio Herrera, Francisco Santana and Frank Rojas on his way to that world title opportunity against Crawford.

“This is a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico matchup and both of us have something to prove,” said Benavídez. “It’s going to be a great fight for the fans. I feel strong and I know I will end this one on fight night. I’m bigger and stronger than he is and come July 30, he will see the difference in power between us.”

The 33-year-old Kownacki (20-2, 15 KOs) returns to the friendly confines of Barclays Center where he has previously fought 10 times, compiling a 9-1 record with five knockouts. Born in Lomza, Poland before moving to Brooklyn when he was seven, Kownacki will step back into the ring after dropping a pair of explosive, fan-friendly fights to Robert Helenius. He owns victories over former world champion Charles Martin and former title challengers Gerald Washington and Chris Arreola. His August 2019 battle against Arreola set CompuBox records for heavyweights in combined power punches thrown and landed.

“I’m very excited to be back in the ring, especially back home in Brooklyn at Barclays Center,” said Kownacki. “I’m ready to show the world that Robert Helenius just caught me at a complicated time in my life, where juggling being a new father and a fighter was a new experience and learning how to manage both was something I needed to learn how to do. For this fight, my family went away to Poland while I’m in camp so I could only focus on boxing. It was a difficult decision to make, but the right one. Demirezen is coming off a couple big wins, so I know he will bring his ‘A’ game, but I need to beat him to be back in the heavyweight mix. Our fight on July 30 will be action-packed with my hand being raised in victory.”

A 2016 Olympian for Turkey, Demirezen (16-1, 12 KOs) has fought out of Hamburg, Germany in the professional ranks since turning pro in late 2016. The 32-year-old won his first 11 pro fights, including a second-round stoppage of Rad Rashid to capture a European heavyweight title in 2018. Demirezen’s first U.S. outing came in 2019, when he became the first person to go the distance against Efe Ajagba, losing by decision. Since that defeat, Demirezen has scored five-straight victories, including defeating former title challengers Gerald Washington in January and Kevin Johnson in May.

“I’m very happy to fight in the U.S. again on July 30,” said Demirezen. “After my big win in Miami [in January], I’m very confident I’m going to give everyone a great fight in Brooklyn. I’m ready for anything Adam Kownacki brings to the ring and I want to make a big statement with a win over him.”

A native of Capitol Heights, Md., Russell (15-0, 15 KOs) will be continuing on the legacy left by his late father Gary Sr., as he belongs to one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families and trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. The 25-year-old Russell has yet to allow an opponent to make it to the final bell since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Most recently, Russell added the most impressive professional victory of his career thus far, as he became the first person to stop former champion Viktor Postol in their February clash on SHOWTIME.

When asked about his fight against Barthelemy, Russell cryptically said, “Deforestation is just a phase that shows there’s more space for growth and conquer,’’ and then stated that he would explain what he means after winning this fight.

A native of Havana, Cuba now fighting out of Las Vegas, Barthelemy (29-1-1, 15 KOs) added two victories in 2021, winning a unanimous decision over All Rivera in January before stopping Gustavo David Vittori in two rounds in November. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy owns notable victories over Argenis Mendez, Antonio DeMarco, Mickey Bey and Denis Shafikov. His only professional loss came in a 2018 140-pound championship rematch against Kiryl Relikh, with the only other blemish on his record coming via a draw versus former champion Robert Easter Jr. in 2019. Barthelemy also comes from a fighting family, as he is the middle brother between the younger Leduan and the older Yan, who won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics.

“I’m thrilled to be competing on SHOWTIME, especially against an undefeated young lion like Gary Antuanne Russell,” said Barthelemy. “He’s knocked out every opponent he’s faced, but he’s going to find out real quick that I’m on another level. I’m more determined than ever to take this young kid to school. Don’t be surprised if I take him out, as I’ve been working on my power and explosiveness. The new and improved version of myself will be on display July 30 in Brooklyn.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #GarciaBenavidez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook  at           www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing

HOLLYWOOD, FLA–IBF #10 Luis “King Kong” Ortiz 33-2(28KO) kept his name in the top Heavyweight conversation with big over IBF #2 Charles Martin 28-3-1 (25KO) at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Martin former IBF heavyweight champion dropped Ortiz in round one and four, but round six was all Ortiz when he let his hands go in a fist of fury to drop Martin twice on the way to his TKO Victory.  Ortiz has been a fixture atop heavyweight rankings for years, with his only defeats coming in memorable contests against former longtime heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Official Time was 1:37 Round 6.

FRANK SANCHEZ REMAINS UNBEATEN WITH A DECISION WIN OVER HAMMER

Canelo Alverez was on hand to watch his stablemate Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez 20-0 (13KO) go to work in his heavyweight showdown against war-tested Christian Hammer 26-9 (16KO). Sanchez dropped Hammer in the final frame on his way to a shutout, with all the cards reading 100-89.  In comparison, Luis Ortiz nor Alexander Povetkin was able to stop Hammer but he was stopped by Tyson Fury in 2015 and Hugie Fury in October (retired due to a bicep injury.). 

JONNIE RICE BEATS MICHAEL COFFIE AGAIN

Heavyweight Jonnie Rice 15-6-1 (10KO) outlasted Michael Coffie 12-2(9KO) for his second upset in a row. In a slow-paced 10 round flightThis was a rematch from his upset win in July when Coffie was stopped by Rice in the 5th.

The cards read 97-93 twice and 99-91.

Demirezen Stops Washington in 8

The heavyweight action continued at the Seminole Hard Rock & Casino with Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen 15-1(12KO) stopping Gerald Washington 20-5-1(13KO) in the eighth round.  Demirezen hunted Washington from the opening bell, it was an effort of hard work and “chopping of the tree” as they say, until 0:29 of the eighth when referee Frank Santore Jr halted the action in round 8. Washington was stopped by Charles Martin last year and before that, Adam Kownacki, Jarrell Miller, and Deontay Wilder.

Faust stops Kiladze in 2 Round Classic

The main card started with bombs and fireworks with Heavyweights Viktor Faust 9-0 (7KO) and Iago Kiladze 27-6-1(19KO) who put on an instant classic in an absolute 2 round war. 

Five total knockdowns, In round one Faust dropped Kiladze, then Kiladze returned the favor and dropped Faust then Faust was dropped Kiladze for a second time in round one.  The fireworks continued immediately in round two when Kiladze dropped Faust and then Faust came right back and dropped Kiladze, during the count referee Sam Burgos saw concern and waved off the fight, a very unpopular decision to the crowd. Officially a TKO2 win for Faust. What a fight!

Frank “The Ghost” Martin dropped Romero Duno 24-3 (19KO) twice with big straight left hands in the fourth for a TKO win improving his impressive record to 15-0 (11KO). After the fight, Martin put the top of the lightweight division on notice. “We right here we don’t need no time, we are ready for whoever, anyone in the top 5, We could do Devin Haney.”

The 26-year-old southpaw Martin is originally from Detroit and now trains in the Dallas area under the guidance of top trainer Derrick James and alongside unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr.

In a slugfest of two unbeaten Cuban Heavyweights southpaws, former Olympian Lenier Pero 6-0 (3KO), outworked Geovany Bruzon 6-1 (5KO) in an 8 round battle.  The cards read 78-74 and 77-75.  Great matchup of two young undefeated fighters.

Former 2 time national Golden Glove Champion junior lightweight Maliek Montgomery improved to 12-0 (11KO) while stopping Angel Luna 14-9,  at 1:59 in the 3rd.

Welterweight Alayn Limonta moved his record to a perfect 4-0(4KO) with a 4th round TKO over Ray Barlow 5-2 (3KO)

In another slugfest of unbeaten heavyweights Steven Torres 5-0-1(5KO) and James Evans 4-0-1(4KO), battled for 4 hard rounds, often testing the others’ chins with big right hands.  In the end, the cards read 40-36 for Torres, 39-37 Evans, and 38-38 resulting in a split draw.

Light heavyweight Atif Oberlton 5-0 (5KO) dropped Ernest Amuzu 26-6 (22KO) in the first round and kept the pressure on until 2:59 of round 2 when Amuzu’s corner called an end to the fight to save their fighter.

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (December 30, 2021) – Top heavyweight Luis “King Kong” Ortiz and former world champion Charles Martin went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday before they meet in an IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, January 1 from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The press conference also featured rising heavyweight star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez and Christian Hammer, who duel in the 10-round co-main event.

Rounding out the heavyweight extravaganza and facing off at Thursday’s event were heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie, who meet in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington and Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen, who battle in a 10-round fight, and unbeaten Viktor Faust and Iago Kiladze, who square off in the 10-round pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Hard Rock Live:

LUIS ORTIZ

“I’m very thankful for this great opportunity that my team has set me up with on Saturday night. It’s exciting to be able to give the fans a great show.

“When somebody says they’re going to knock me out, it just makes me laugh and smile. Everybody says that. But you’re facing a fighter who has been through it before, so you can try your best.

“I’m glad that he’s saying that he’s going to knock me out. He’s coming with bad intentions and so am I. Anyone can land the big shot, but it’s going to be me with my hand-raised Saturday night.

“I’m very proud to have made my pro debut here at Hard Rock and to have done it in style. I’m glad that he trained well for this fight, because he’s going to be facing a difficult fighter who knows how to adapt.

“First of all, my mind is 100% and that’s the most important thing. On Saturday night, everyone will see that physically, I’m also completely ready to become world champion.”

CHARLES MARTIN

“I’m so excited for this fight. This is a great opportunity and I’m thankful for this chance that I have. It’s great to be displayed as the headliner. PBC has faith in me and I’m going to go out and show why.

“What you see is what you get. I’ve been working hard in the gym day in and day out. It’s like second nature to me. I’m ready to let my hands speak. I’m going to be very skillful in there.

“This is going to be a great fight. You don’t really see two southpaws too often in the heavyweight division. You’re going to see some really good boxing in this fight.

“You’re going to get a knockout in this fight. We’re not going to go 12 rounds. I know I’m going to knock him out.

“I didn’t get a fair shake in my first run as champion. This is the revenge tour right now. Luis Ortiz is first on my list of these last four fights I want before I retire, which includes two against Anthony Joshua. I want to beat him down twice.

“Me and my trainer Manny Robles have been doing a lot of great work in the gym. People only see what happens in the ring, they don’t see what happens behind closed doors. I have business to take care of on Saturday and we’re ready.

“I’m remaining hopeful about getting another world title fight. I never overlook my opponent or look ahead to another fight though. Ortiz is the only opposition that I see at this moment.”

FRANK SANCHEZ

“After joining with my trainer Eddy Reynoso’s team, I’ve learned so much under his tutelage. It’s put me in position to give a great performance Saturday on pay-per-view.

“We trained hard and we trained to fight anyone who would be stepping in against me. I was ready for Negron, but I’m going to be ready for anyone standing there in front of me.

“Christian Hammer is a good fighter and I’m going to be ready for him. That’s what we train for. The opponent doesn’t matter if you’ve prepared to 100% of your ability.

“If I win on Saturday, I feel like I’m going to keep moving up and facing tougher competition. I believe I’m going to be ready for the world title fight next year.”

CHRISTIAN HAMMER

“I was with my team here in the U.S. already, supporting my teammates Viktor and Ali when I got the call about this fight. I was having a great training camp with them, so I was ready to take this fight.

“It’s my job to take these fights. I’m going to do my job and give everyone a good fight on Saturday. I know Sanchez is a good fighter, but I’ve faced a lot of good fighters. We’ll see what he’s made of.”

JONNIE RICE

“Of course I feel pressure to repeat my performance from our first fight. A lot of people thought it was a fluke, so now I just have to do the same thing times two. I’m getting paid more this time, so I’m going to do it even quicker in this fight.

“Everyone knows how these things go. I was a big underdog in the first fight, so everyone thinks something must have gone wrong. Something had to be out of the ordinary. Let’s understand something though, it’s going to go down the same way Saturday night.

“I don’t feel like he underestimated me in the first fight. I know his attention had been on Gerald Washington. These things happen.

“I’m more confident now than ever. If he doesn’t bring me down a level, my head is going to keep getting bigger and bigger. He might have to do me a favor, because right now, I feel like I’m about to take over the whole world.”

MICHAEL COFFIE

“I didn’t touch Rice in the first fight, but I’m definitely going to touch him for sure on Saturday night. I definitely have a chip on my shoulder now.

“I have to prove myself. I didn’t get a chance to show what I can actually do in the first fight. I don’t even care about my record, I just want to show my skills. Everyone is going to see on Saturday.

“This time Rice is my original opponent from the beginning. We prepared specifically for him this time. I’m also a lot healthier for this camp. I’m 100% and I’m ready to go.

“This is not a real beef between us, but it’s intense and it’s part of the game. We’re going to play that game on Saturday and may the best man win. I know that it’s going to be me.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“I feel great. It’s good to be back. I’ve been in the gym working hard with my team. I’ve learned a lot of great things and I’ve taken advantage of the time I’ve had.

“I’m looking forward to showing off my hard work and getting back into a top position in this division. My opponent is coming in hungry to prove himself, and that should make this a great fight for the fans.”

ALI EREN DEMIREZEN

“I’ve had three fights since the Efe Ajagba fight and I’ve gotten much better since then. My skills have improved and I’m very eager to get in the ring and display them.

“This is my second chance fighting in the U.S. and I want to show that I belong in this position. I have to get by this test against Gerald Washington. That’s the only thing that’s on my mind.”

VIKTOR FAUST

“I’m a very good fighter and I’m going to show everyone on Saturday. I’m planning on displaying my technique, skill and power in this fight against Kiladze.

“It’s exciting to be in this position. I love to compete and Saturday is a big opportunity for me. I know I have to give a great performance.”

IAGO KILADZE

“I work hard and train so much. I’ve had a very long training camp. I’m in great shape now and I will give everyone another great fight on Saturday night. I promise that.

“There are a lot of great fighters on this card and I’m excited to be here with them. I’m going to prove with how I fight on Saturday that this is exactly where I belong.”

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ABOUT ORTIZ VS. MARTIN
Ortiz vs. Martin will see top heavyweight Luis “King Kong” Ortiz take on former world champion Charles Martin in a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator topping a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on New Year’s Day live from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

In the co-main event, unbeaten rising heavyweight star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez will square off against Christian Hammer in a 10-round attraction.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie battle in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington in a 10-round showdown against Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen and unbeaten Viktor Faust facing Iago Kiladze in a 10-round attraction to open the pay-per-view.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (November 17, 2021) – The new year will kick off with a heavyweight bang, as five exciting heavyweight matchups take center stage on a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on New Year’s Day live from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The main event will see top heavyweight Luis “King Kong” Ortiz take on former world champion Charles Martin in a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title Eliminator. In the co-main event, unbeaten rising heavyweight star Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez will square off against Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron in a 10-round attraction.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see heavyweight contenders Jonnie Rice and Michael Coffie battle in a 10-round rematch, former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington in a 10-round showdown against Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen and unbeaten Viktor Faust facing Iago Kiladze in a 10-round attraction to open the pay-per-view.

“Heavyweight boxing is always must-see, and we’ll be kicking off the new year with nothing but titanic sluggers looking to impress in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdowns,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is a stacked lineup of fights available for fans at an affordable price of $39.99. Luis Ortiz and Charles Martin are both amongst the top of the heavyweight contender ladder and will be able to solidify their position for a world title shot with a win on January 1. One of the most active rising heavyweights, Frank Sanchez will return to action after a career-best victory in October for a tough duel against Carlos Negron. With five fights in all, New Year’s day will be non-stop action with gargantuan duels taking place live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale Monday, November 22 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Pre-sale tickets go on sale this Friday, November 19 at 10 a.m. ET.

With exceptional power and sublime technical skills, Ortiz (32-2, 27 KOs) has been a fixture atop heavyweight rankings for years, with his only defeats coming in memorable contests against former longtime heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Born in Camaguey, Cuba and trained by longtime coach Herman Caicedo in Miami, Ortiz won three bouts between Wilder contests, defeating Travis Kauffman, Christian Hammer and Razvan Cojanu. Prior to that run, Ortiz picked up victories over the likes of Bryant Jennings, Tony Thompson and Malik Scott to build up his heavyweight resume. Most recently, Ortiz blasted out Alexander Flores in the first round of their November 2020 bout.

“I can’t wait to give my fans in South Florida a great show on New Year’s Day and earn another shot at the heavyweight title,” said Ortiz. “Charles Martin is a good fighter, but he’s standing in my way. The only thing on my mind is getting in the ring and making a big statement in this fight to show again why I’m feared by the heavyweight division.”

The 35-year-old Martin (28-2-1, 25 KOs) became heavyweight champion in January 2016 when he won by TKO against then unbeaten Vyacheslav Glazkov. After losing his title to Anthony Joshua, Martin has won five of his last six fights, with all of his wins coming inside the distance. Originally from St. Louis, now living in Las Vegas and currently training in Southern California with Manny Robles, Martin bounced back from a narrow decision defeat to Adam Kownacki in 2018 to earn three-straight victories, including most recently knocking out Gerald Washington in February 2020.

“Nobody wants to fight me and nobody wants to fight Ortiz, so we’ll fight each other,” said Martin. “I’m going to show the world on January 1 why I deserve a title shot. I’ve paid my dues and I want my belt back. Beating Ortiz is going to get me one step closer to that goal. In order to become two-time heavyweight champion, I have to get past Ortiz first, so that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”

An amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sánchez (19-0, 13 KOs) now trains in San Diego with top trainer Eddy Reynoso. The 29-year-old has stayed busy on his rise up the heavyweight rankings, scoring three victories in 2020 as he earned a unanimous decision over Joey Dawejko and stopped Brian Howard and Julian Fernandez. Sanchez most recently scored a career-best win in October, dropping previously unbeaten Efe Ajagba on his way to a unanimous decision victory.

“I’m happy to be back so soon after beating Agjaba, but the work is only beginning,” said Sanchez. “There’s much more to be done. I believe I will be the first heavyweight champion in Cuban history. Negron is a strong, dangerous opponent. I’ll have to be my best, but I’m confident that I will come out victorious. I believe in my team, and my team believes in me. We’ll start the New Year off getting to 20-0, remain busy and make a strong case for a world title by year’s end.”

The 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian Negron (25-3, 20 KOs) rides a five-fight winning streak into January 1, including four wins by stoppage. The 34-year-old bounced back from defeats to Dominic Breazeale and Brian Howard to put together his win streak, which includes a March 2020 knockout over previously unbeaten Robert Alfonso. Negron has fought professionally since 2009 and now lives in Miami where he trains alongside Luis Ortiz.

“This is a great opportunity for me to get a win over a strong up-and-coming fighter and show everyone what I’m capable of,” said Negron. “I’m training hard and I’ve had great sparring in order to be ready for anything that Sanchez is going to bring. My experience and preparation are going to be the difference. I’m extremely motivated to give the fans a great fight and put myself in position to get a world title opportunity.”

Born in South Carolina and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Rice (14-6-1, 10 KOs) will look to repeat a career-best performance in the rematch against Coffie, after he stopped the previously unbeaten fighter in the fifth-round in July. Rice won six of seven fights from 2018 through 2019 before a pair of losses in 2020 against then unbeatens Efe Ajagba and Demsey McKean. In a pro career that dates back to 2014, the blemishes on Rice’s records have all come against previously unbeaten fighters.

“In my last fight against Coffie, I went in there to prove myself and do what I had been training to do,” said Rice. “It was sink or swim, and I came out on top. Now I have to go out there on January 1 and show that it wasn’t a fluke. This is a great stage for me to display my talents and prove that I’m capable of big things. I’m looking to give the fans a great performance and I know that Coffie is doing the same. Don’t miss this fight.”

Coffie (12-1, 9 KOs) hopes to bounce back from his first career defeat after dropping the first matchup against Rice in July. A Marine Corps veteran who picked up boxing after returning from overseas, Coffie quickly impressed in amateur tournaments enough to earn sparring assignments with Deontay Wilder and Adam Kownacki. He was born in the Bronx, but now trains in Orlando, Florida and broke through in 2020 with three dominating stoppage victories, including knockouts over previously unbeaten opponents Darmani Rock and Luis Pena.

“I want to get it back and make it an actual fight this time against Jonny Rice,” said Coffie. “Last time, I was in a position where I faced some adversity, and I had to make a decision to go through with the fight. I know that I can fight through adversity, and on January 1, I will be ready for whatever way the fight goes. On January 1, there will be a fight.”

Washington (20-4-1, 13 KOs) is a six-foot-six heavyweight contender who was a former college football standout at the University of Southern California and a U.S. Navy veteran. Born in San Jose, California, Washington most recently lost a contest against former heavyweight champion Charles Martin in February 2020. Prior to that fight, Washington had delivered a knockout of veteran contender Robert Helenius in July 2019. Washington was unbeaten in his first 19 pro fights before dropping his world title challenge to Deontay Wilder in February 2017.

“I’m looking forward to stepping back in the ring on January 1,” said Washington. “I’m ready to go to work and get myself back in position for some big time fights. My experience is going to be the difference in this fight. It’s going to be a great night of heavyweight action!”

A 2016 Olympian for Turkey, Demirezen (14-1, 11 KOs) has fought out of Hamburg, Germany in the professional ranks since turning pro in late 2016. The 31-year-old won his first 11 pro fights, including a second round stoppage of Rad Rashid to capture a European heavyweight title in 2018. Demirezen made his only other U.S. start in 2019, when he became the first person to go the distance against Efe Ajagba, losing by decision. Since that defeat, Demirezen has scored three-straight victories, most recently stopping Nikola Milacic in March.

“I learned a lot from my loss to Ajagba and I’m looking forward to getting another chance to box in the U.S.,” said Demirezen. “I’m still angry about the Ajagba fight, because I know that I could have won. I want to show now that I belong on this stage. I’m proud to be in this position to show what I can do and I’m going to make the most of the opportunity.”

The 29-year-old Faust (8-0, 6 KOs) turned pro in February 2020 after an extensive amateur career fighting out of his native Svitlovodsk, Ukraine. Faust knocked out his first four opponents, before winning dominant six and eight round decisions. After a first round knockout over previously unbeaten Jacek Piatek in May, Faust made his U.S. debut in October, dropping Mike Marshall twice on his way to a third-round TKO victory.

“I’m really excited to be back fighting in the U.S. again on January 1,” said Faust. “I’ve been welcomed warmly and fighting stateside already feels like my living room. I love the atmosphere. This is a great chance to show myself on this pay-per-view show against a very high-quality opponent. I won’t disappoint fans when I step into the ring.”

Kiladze (27-5-1, 19 KOs) returned to the win column in September, with a knockout victory over Mathew McKinney. Since he began fighting stateside full time in 2017, Kiladze’s losses have come against top heavyweights Adam Kownacki, Michael Hunter, Efe Ajagba and Joe Joyce, who sported a combined 45-1 record heading into their matchups against Kiladze. Originally from Georgia and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Kiladze owns a 2019 draw against then unbeaten Robert Alfonso and won six straight fights between 2014 and 2018.

“I’ll be ready on fight night and I’ll be focused,” said Kiladze. “I’m grateful for the opportunity and training hard to put on a good performance and leave the ring with a victory.”

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Hamburg, 17th of September– On September 20th Dnipro, Ukraine will be the host of an exciting boxing show. Three aspiring athletes from German promotion EC Boxing will be a part of this event. Ukrainian heavyweight Victor Faust is taking center stage, fighting in front of his home crowd. He’ll be joined by fellow big man Ali Eren Demirezen and young 140 pound sensation Volkan Gökcek, who are all willing to take the next step in their careers.

Faust will be challenging Gabriel Enguema from Spain, who just like him is over 6’5’’ tall and has shown a sturdy chin in the past. This fight is a step up for Faust after two rather easy wins to start off his professional career. The 28-year old held his training camp in Istanbul, where he worked alongside teammates Demirezen and Gökcek. Therefore Faust will be prepared for what’s to come.
 

Demirezen, who sparred Faust for this fight, has already reached for the stars when he took on Nigerian Efe Ajagba in summer of 2019. Despite falling short on the scorecards, Demirezen is showing ambition to climb to the top of the heavyweight division. In Dnipro he will take on dangerous Kamil Sokolowski from Poland. Demirezen knows that he might be only one win away from getting another shot at a top contender, since Promoter Erol Ceylan from EC Boxing is
known for arranging big fights for his clients.

Also returning to the ring that night is up and coming super-lightweight Volkan Gökcek. The technically sound fighter from Istanbul will fight unbeaten Ukrainian Ruslan Belinskyi  „These are all decent tests for our fighters. We are looking to keep them active and lead them to the top. In due time they will all challenge for big titles“, Erol Ceylan states.