JAM-PACKED LINEUP OF EXCITING BOXING & MMA BOUTS ADDED TO RYAN GARCIA VS. RUKIYA ANPO EVENT PRESENTED BY RIZIN & FANMIO
TOKYO – December 3, 2024 – A jam-packed undercard of exciting showdowns featuring both boxing and MMA stars was announced at a press conference in Japan last night ahead of a can’t-miss event presented by RIZIN and FANMIO and headlined by hard-hitting boxing superstar “King” Ryan Garcia and Japanese kickboxing sensation Rukiya Anpo meeting in an exhibition clash Monday, December 30 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT (U.S. date and time)live from Tokyo, Japan.
The lineup of boxing exhibition showdowns will include sensational Floyd Mayweather protégé Curmel Moton (6-0, 5 KOs)facing hard-hitting Filipino Albert Pagara (35-1, 24 KOs)in eight rounds of junior welterweight action plus a rematch between talented prospects and longtime rivals featuring Amado Vargas (11-0, 5 KOs), son of the legendary Francisco Vargas, who again steps in against Sean Garcia (7-1-1, 2 KOs), Ryan Garcia’s younger brother, in an eight-round welterweight fight. Additional boxing undercard bouts will be announced leading up to fight night.
In addition, two professional MMA fights will be featured on the event as Tochigi, Japan’s Takakenshin (1-3, 1 KO) battles Ed Polo King (Pro Debut) from Osaka in a heavyweight tilt, while Miyagi-native Makoto Takahashi (18-3-1, 5 SUBs) faces off against Chicago’s Jose Torres (12-3-1, 4 KOs/2 SUBs)in a bout contested at a 59 kg catchweight.
The event is co-promoted by RIZIN and FANMIO, and available worldwide on FANMIO PPV, excluding Japan. End-of-year combat sports have a proud and storied history in Japan, with huge events taking place around New Year’s Eve annually. Garcia vs. Anpo will add to that much-celebrated tradition as FANMIO helps bring it to worldwide audiences with one of America’s biggest boxing stars, Garcia.
The fascinating contrast of styles in the main event will be fought at 153-pounds, with full boxing rules implemented across eight two-minute rounds in the headliner of a unique crossover event featuring both boxing and MMA that points to toe-to-toe action all night long.
The pay-per-view presentation will be available for purchase worldwide at FANMIO.com/PPV, excluding Japan. Fans can also purchase through the FANMIO App, which is available globally via smart televisions and mobile devices via Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, Vizio Smart TV, Google TV and Chromecast.
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ABOUT GARCIA VS. ANPO
Follow the conversation leading up to this crossover boxing showdown on all social media platforms with the hashtag #GarciaAnpo and through @Rizin_PR, @FANMIO, @RyanGarcia and @Anpo_Rukiya on X (formerly Twitter) and @Rizin_PR, @FANMIO, @KingRyan and @AnpoRukiya on Instagram to stay tuned for more exciting announcements leading up to December 30.
NATE DIAZ VS. JORGE MASVIDAL MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
LOS ANGELES – July 2, 2024 – Combat sports superstars Nate Diaz and Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal stepped into the ring at an open to the public media workout in Los Angeles on Tuesday as they near their pro boxing showdown this Saturday, July 6 headlining a Fanmio PPV from Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
The event also featured fighters competing on the stacked undercard that will see two-time world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs battle exciting contender Shane Mosley Jr. in the 10-round super middleweight co-main event, all action brawler Chris Avila duel MMA legend Anthony “Showtime” Pettis in a six-round light heavyweight fight, unbeaten prospects Amado “AFV” Vargas and Sean Garcia meet in an eight-round lightweight attraction and lightweight contenders Devin Cushing and Manuel Correa competing in an eight round battle.
Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from The NOVO at L.A. Live:
NATE DIAZ
“We’re ready to fight, nothing else. It’s kill or be killed. He’s done a lot of impressive shit, but I’m gonna be ready for him.”
JORGE MASVIDAL
“At the end of the day, when I get in that ring, it’s all business. I’m gonna beat the shit out of Nate Diaz.
“I know people gotta cheer for their boy out here on the West Coast, but I’m gonna destroy that boy.
“I’ve fought on the road my whole career. I’ve fought all over. I’ve never cared where I fight. I love going in there and pissing off the home fans.”
DANIEL JACOBS
“This is my last run toward the Hall of Fame. I’m already a two-time champion, but there’s more for me to accomplish.
“I hope the fans tune in, because this is gonna be a good fight. Don’t miss this fight, because on Saturday night you’re gonna see the return of ‘The Miracle Man’.”
SHANE MOSLEY JR.
“Every fight is the fight of my life, so Saturday night is another. I’m ready. I’m super excited. I get to fight a two-time world champion and I’m excited for the opportunity.
“I appreciate everyone who’s supported me and I’m gonna give everyone a great show on Saturday night.”
CHRIS AVILA
“Saturday I’m gonna come out and beat this guy up. I’m ready to show everyone what’s up and what we do.
“This is home for me. I’m ready to get the job done on Saturday. It’s gonna be a banger. Pettis has a lot of credentials, but I’m gonna get some of my own on Saturday night.”
ANTHONY PETTIS
“I’ve been sparring every day and putting in the work. We’re coming for the knockout. This guy is getting knocked out.
Chris Avila is not my level. I’m gonna show that this weekend and keep moving forward. Every time I fight, I put on a show.”
AMADO VARGAS
“I’m just locked in and ready for this fight. We’re sharp. Kudos to Sean for taking the fight, but we’re ready to get this win.
“I know Sean is going to come into this fight 100%, that’s what we’re preparing for. It’s going to make me look even better. This is a legacy fight for me.”
SEAN GARCIA
“I feel ready to go. This is a great opportunity and I’ve trained really hard to show out on Saturday night.
“I’m coming to win. This isn’t going past round four. I’m ready for him.”
DEVIN CUSHING
“I’m so blessed to be here. It’s a lifetime of work that led me to this moment. I’m ready to put on a stellar performance.
“All the talking is done. On Saturday night, it’s business. We’re putting it to rest on Saturday night. I’m ready to come out victorious.”
MANUEL CORREA
“This is a huge card and I can’t wait. The West Coast fans are the best and I appreciate them. I’m gonna give them a show on Saturday.”
# # #
ABOUT “LAST MAN STANDING: DIAZ VS. MASVIDAL”
Diaz vs. Masvidal will headline a Fanmio PPV event as combat sports superstars Nate Diaz and Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal square off in a pro boxing grudge match on Saturday, July 6 from Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
“LAST MAN STANDING: DIAZ VS. MASVIDAL” is set to provide July Fourth Weekend fireworks marking the first time two UFC superstars will go toe-to-toe in a pro boxing ring.
The pay-per-view will also feature two-time world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs taking on exciting contender Shane Mosley Jr. in the 10-round super middleweight co-main event, all action brawler Chris Avila dueling MMA legend Anthony “Showtime” Pettis in a six-round light heavyweight fight, unbeaten prospects Amado “AFV” Vargas and Sean Garcia meeting in an eight-round lightweight attraction and lightweight contenders Devin Cushing and Manuel Correa competing in an eight round battle.
The 10-round 175-pound light heavyweight fight between combat sports rivals Diaz and Masvidal headlines a pay-per-view that is available now for pre-order at FANMIO.com/ppv and FANMIO.com/DiazVsMasvidal. The pay-per-view is available at the SRP (suggested retail price) of $49.99, across all available purchasing platforms. Fans can also purchase through the Fanmio App, which is available globally via smart televisions and mobile devices via Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, Vizio Smart TV, Google TV and Chromecast. Fans who order the event through Fanmio will be able to order a free official fight shirt along with the purchase.
The event is presented by Fanmio in association with Diaz’s Real Fight Inc. and Masvidal’s Gamebred Boxing Promotions is sponsored by the “Make America Great Again, AGAIN” ($MAGAA) token on the Ethereum network, Happy Dad Hard Seltzer, Bored Jerky and Patsch Extraordinary Tequila.
Follow the conversation leading up to this unique boxing duel on all social media platforms with the hashtag #DiazMasvidal and through @Fanmio, @NateDiaz209 and @GamebredFighter on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to stay tuned for more exciting announcements leading up to July 6.
ABOUT FANMIO
FANMIO is focused on bringing the best entertainment to the world. From world-class events such as Floyd Mayweather vs Logan Paul and Nate Diaz vs Jorge Masvidal, FANMIO provides global access to its broadcast and pay-per-view content in every major country worldwide via www.FANMIO.com and its mobile and smart TV apps including iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Vizio Smart TVs.
QUOTES NATE DIAZ VS. JORGE MASVIDAL PRESS CONFERENCE HEATS UP AHEAD OF PRO BOXING SHOWDOWN HEADLINING FANMIO PPV
ANAHEIM, CA. – June 6, 2024 – Combat sports superstars Nate Diaz and Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal exchanged heated trash talk before a scuffle ensued between the fighters’ camps at Thursday’s press conference in Anaheim, raising the stakes and tensions even more ahead of their pro boxing light heavyweight showdown that headlines a Fanmio PPV event on Saturday, July 6 from Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
The press conference also featured two-time world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs and exciting contender Shane Mosley Jr., who will meet in the co-main event, unbeaten prospect Amado Vargas, the son of former longtime boxing champion Fernando Vargas, who faces Sean Garcia, the younger brother of boxing star Ryan Garcia, in an eight-round lightweight attraction, lightweight contenders Devin Cushing and Manuel Correa, who face off in a 10-round bout, as well as Diaz’s teammate and all-action brawler Chris Avila and MMA legend Anthony “Showtime” Pettis,who will duelin a six-round light heavyweight fight.
Tickets for the live event are on sale starting at only $25 (plus applicable fees and taxes) and are available through Ticketmaster. A limited number of VIP packages which include the best ringside seats, all-inclusive hospitality in Honda Center’s exclusive Impact Club, the opportunity to step into the ring after the fight, VIP access to the weigh-in and more.
Fanmio will present the event in association with Diaz’s Real Fight Inc. and Masvidal’s Gamebred Boxing Promotions.
The 10-round 175-pound light heavyweight fight headlines a pay-per-view available now for pre-order at FANMIO.com/ppv and FANMIO.com/DiazVsMasvidal for $79.99. Fans can also purchase through the Fanmio App, which is available globally via smart televisions and mobile devices via Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, Vizio Smart TV, Google TV and Chromecast.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Brewery X Biergarten Patio at Honda Center:
NATE DIAZ
“I came here to whoop ass and do my thing. I hope y’all watch!
“I feel like I’m sick of this (stuff). I’m ready to fight. I’m ready for the show to go on.
“He better hope he gets the knockout. If not, he’s getting (messed) up.”
JORGE MASVIDAL
“I’m ready to get in there July 6, take care of business, knock this (guy) out and go chill with my family. Let’s get to it!
“At the end of the day, all that matters is that I’m in shape and like I said earlier, it’s not going to the judges. And not because of a cut, or nothing, but because of a clean KO. That’s what I’m training for.
“I’ve gotten more time to hone in on the craft, sharper at boxing, every day work on getting a little bit better, craftier and more efficient. All that just means more violence come July 6. On July 4, come celebrate the United States’ birthday and on July 6 come see me end him.
“I’m meaner. I’m faster. I’m more explosive. And when it comes down to it, I think I’ve got the best hands in MMA. On July 6, I get to prove that. No questions, no nothing. We’re going to find out. There’s none of that jiu-jitsu (stuff), none of that hugging, it’s just straight hands.”
DANIEL JACOBS
“I’m just happy to be a part of this card with so many champions, so many up-and-coming future stars. It’s an honor and a privilege and come fight night you guys are going to see why this is such a big card.
“I’m fighting the likes of Shane Mosley Jr. who’s an up-and-coming guy that’s very talented. I look forward to showing you guys, with all of the experience that I have, why I’m called the ‘Miracle Man’. I’ve been off for two years and now I’ve taken the time to get my mind, body and spirit intact. You guys are going to see the effects on fight night. I appreciate all the love, but you guys are going to see the return of the ‘Miracle Man’.
“I knew I wanted to finish my career with a bang. So this is representing the next step in me getting that Hall of Fame plaque.
“I’ve been a fan of Shane Mosely Sr. for my entire career. I’ve seen his son fight, but when you talk about levels and you talk about what it is that I bring to the table, obviously I see myself being the victor in whatever way or fashion that victory comes. It’ll be an honor to step into the ring with the son of a legend, but it’ll stop there because he’s not his dad.
“I know exactly what I’ve been doing and what works. I know what my team has been cultivating… I just want to say that I’m looking forward to July 6 and the West Coast is in for a treat for sure!”
SHANE MOSLEY JR.
“Like everybody has been saying, this is going to be an incredible card and an incredible night. Please don’t miss it. I’m blessed to be on this card fighting a legend. This man is a two-time middleweight champion. Most people can’t become a champion and he became champion twice. I’m excited to be a part of this event.
“This is by far the best fighter that I’ve been in the ring with. Nothing but respect. I have to raise my game. I have to be better. And to become better you have to put yourself in situations like this. Adversity shows the man to himself, so that’s what I’m doing, and this is my chance.
“Whatever happens, I’m going to become better because of it. And my goal is to become a legend as well. So I need to get in there with another legend if that’s my pursuit. So when they said you can fight Daniel Jacobs, I said, ‘Wow, yes! Absolutely, of course.’”
AMADO VARGAS
“I’ve been training my ass off. My dad has been putting me through rigorous training, and I can’t wait. You guys are going to see the improvement from the beginning of my career to where I’m at now and I can’t wait. Watch July 6 on Fanmio PPV. Let’s go!
“I’m a competitor. He’s a competitor. He’s looking to win. I’m looking to win. At the end of the day, there can only be one winner and that’s going to be me. I’ve been training really hard and I’m confident in the training that I’m putting in. Like I said, you’re going to see a different me, more skillful, more on-point. I just can’t wait. My pops has been getting me great sparring and I’m ready for this fight.
“Any man that puts on a pair of boxing gloves has a chance. So I’m preparing like I’m going to fight Mike Tyson. At the end of the day, I’ve got to be well prepared. My father and my team are making sure of that. On July 6, I’m going to put on a hell of a performance. Thank you to the fans and to everybody that’s here. Watch me go 11-0!”
DEVIN CUSHING
“I’m ready to put on a show. I’m going to kick his ass on July 6. All that running your mouth, you ain’t going to do nothing. I know everybody don’t know my name, but come July 6 I promise y’all won’t forget it. Devin Cushing, remember it, because I’m coming to steal the show.
“Three piece and a soda, that’s what he’s getting. I’m going to bust his ass up. I’m going to beat him up. I’m going to drown him. I’m going to knock him smooth out.”
MANUEL CORREA
“This is a huge opportunity for me. I’m ready to stand up and do what I do for my hometown. I hear him talking a lot of crazy, but you have to stand on that. You have to show us. We’re going to see. He hasn’t fought anybody yet. He fought a bunch of bums and he’s feeling himself. But you’ve seen who I fought. I fought Olympians with less than 10 fights on my record. So I’m not scared to fight anybody. I’ve been that way my whole life, and now he’s going to find out the hard way.
“It was all good back there. He was being friendly and then he came out here trying to act in front of the cameras. You know how they play, but we’re going to show him.
“Fans can expect fireworks. I’m always coming forward. If you look at any of my fights, I’m pressing the action no matter what. Win or lose, I’m coming forward.”
CHRIS AVILA
“I’m out here doing my thing right now. I’m planning on keeping the streak rolling and keep whooping ass. I’m training hard and I’m here to represent and get my hand raised.
“I know he’s game, but I’m game too. I box for real and I’ve been boxing for a while. So I train for real and I train in boxing. I plan on knocking this fool out, too.”
ANTHONY PETTIS
“This is a big opportunity on this card with all these guys, some of the legends I grew up fighting with. California, I know you guys are out here supporting us. Chris, I appreciate you taking this fight and we’re going to have a good fight.
“I’ve been sparring some of the best boxers in the world to get ready for the championship MMA fights I’ve had, and it shows. In my first fight, I fought Roy Jones Jr., so I couldn’t just go out there and knock him out. He’s a much bigger guy than me. Avila is more my size, so I can go out there and knock him out, and that’s what we’re training for.
“I think that extra month just added motivation. Both of us are ready to go. We were ready to go last weekend. So this extra month just adds that motivation to get the knockout on both ends. So look for a good fight from both of us.”
# # #
ABOUT “LAST MAN STANDING: DIAZ VS. MASVIDAL”
Diaz vs. Masvidal will headline a Fanmio PPV event as combat sports superstars Nate Diaz and Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal square off in a pro boxing grudge match on Saturday, July 6 from Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
“LAST MAN STANDING: DIAZ VS. MASVIDAL” is set to provide July Fourth Weekend fireworks marking the first time two UFC superstars will go toe-to-toe in a pro boxing ring.
The pay-per-view will also feature two-time world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs taking on exciting contender Shane Mosley Jr. in the 10-round super middleweight co-main event, unbeaten prospects Amado Vargas and Sean Garcia meeting in a eight-round lightweight attraction, lightweight contenders Devin Cushing and Manuel Correa competing in a 10-round battle, plus all action brawler Chris Avila dueling MMA legend Anthony “Showtime” Pettis in a six-round light heavyweight fight.
Follow the conversation leading up to this unique boxing duel on all social media platforms with the hashtag #DiazMasvidal and through @Fanmio, @NateDiaz209 and @GamebredFighter on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to stay tuned for more exciting announcements leading up to July 6.
Prograis Stops Zepeda in 11 to Win WBC Super Lightweight Title
CARSON, CALIFORNIA– In an impressive performance, Regis Prograis claimed the vacant WBC light welterweight title with an eleventh-round knockout of longtime contender Jose Zepeda at the Dignity Sports Health Park.
Prograis (28-1, 24 KOs) of New Orleans, Louisiana proved to have too many dimensions for Zepeda (35-3, 27 KOs) of La Puente, California. When the flow of the bout called for him to box, Prograis boxed. When Zepeda drew him into an inside action fight, Prograis more than handled himself.
Zepeda, 139.4, caught Prograis, 139, leaning to the left for the shot that got a rise out of the crowd in the first. Prograis landed well with his jab early in the second, but Zepeda came back late in the round.
After boxing well at distance for much of the third, Prograis, who entered as the WBC #2 ranked contender, nearly came out of his shoes as he fired off a clean left late in the round. When Prograis went for another sweeping left, Zepeda, the WBC #1 ranked contender, threw his own in concert as the two landed simultaneous hard shots to close out the third.
After getting beaten to the jab, Zepeda drew Prograis into a firefight to close out the fourth, much to the delight of the crowd. The back-and-forth action resumed in the fifth, as neither fighter would let a clean blow go unanswered.
Prograis controlled much of sixth, turning the fight into a boxing match with his pinpoint jab and movement. Prograis’ feints and ring generalship troubled Zepeda again for much of the seventh. Before the close of the round, an accidental clash of heads drew blood from the nose of Prograis.
Prograis continued to outbox Zepeda through rounds eight and nine before Zepeda got him to stand-and-trade heading into the tenth.
The tenth would feature thrilling two-way action throughout, briefly breathing new life into Zepeda’s standing in the bout as Prograis abandoned his jab first style.
The momentum shift would be brief as Prograis rocked and dropped Zepeda along the ropes early in the eleventh. Referee Ray Corona waved off the contest at 59 seconds of round eleven.
After the bout, Prograis refused to call out any of the other names at 140-pounds, considering he is now a champion that should be called out by them.
For Zepeda, the third time did not end up being the charm as all three of his professional defeats have come in world title attempts.
Valle Decisions Bermudez to Win Light Flyweight Titles
In the co-main event, IBF/WBO 105-pound champion Yokasta Valle (27-2, 9 KOs) of San Jose, San Jose, Costa Rica moved up in weight to claim the light flyweight version of the same two titles from previously undefeated champion Evelyn Bermudez (17-1-1, 6 KOs) of Santa de la Vera Cruz, Santa Fe, Argentina via ten-round majority decision.
Valle, 107.4, was active and determined, but the naturally larger Argentine stood up well to the punches throughout the fight. After getting outworked at times early, Bermudez, 106, timed her right hand well in round four and caught the busier Valle clean.
Valle kept a busy pace for all ten rounds, but it appeared Bermudez had the power edge and may have taken rounds with a well-placed right hand or two.
In the end, two judges gave Bermudez very little credit, handing in scores of 99-91 and 97-93 for Valle. The third card was even, 95-95.
After the win, Valle expressed her desire to meet fellow champion Seniesa Estrada at whatever weight class the fight can be made.
2016 and 2020 Uzbekistani Olympian Bakhodir Jalolov (12-0, 12 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York by way of Sariosiyo, Uzbekistan kept his knockout streak alive with a fourth-round stoppage of journeyman Curtis Harper (14-9, 9 KOs) of Jacksonville, Florida.
Jalolov, 247.6, controlled the bout from the early stages, keeping Harper, 260, on the end of his long punches from the southpaw stance.
Harper grew frustrated to the point of intentionally headbutting and hitting on the break during the second round, which earned him a warning from the referee.
In the third, a straight left from Jalolov dropped Harper hard, who got up seconds before the bell and the round would close just before they could touch again.
Jalolov ended the fight, dropping Harper with a combination near the blue corner in the fourth. Harper rose before the count of ten, but referee Thomas Taylor opted the call the one-sided bout. Official time of the stoppage was 1:53 of the fourth.
IBF #4/WBC #5/WBO #8/WBA #12 ranked light middleweight Charles Conwell (18-0, 13 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio took a hard-fought ten-round majority decision over veteran gatekeeper Juan Carlos Abreu (25-7-1, 23 KOs) of La Romana, La Romana, Dominican Republic.
Conwell, 153.8, found himself bleeding from his left eye early in the second after some inside fighting. Despite being bothered by the blood, Conwell pressed the action in the third, briefly stopping Abreu, 154, in his tracks with a clean combination upstairs.
Conwell continued to force himself in rounds four and five, but some well-placed shots by Abreu worsened the 2016 U.S. Olympian’s cut, creating some drama as the fight moved to the middle rounds.
Abreu, who entered as the WBC #15 ranked 154-pound contender, had one of his better rounds in round seven as he backed up Conwell with consistent combinations. However, Conwell would land the most telling blow late in the round, as a body shot forced Abreu to wince and drop his hands near the bell.
As the fight wore on both fighters had their moments as they kept a busy junior middleweight pace in a bout that the three ringside judges would have a wide range of views. In the end, Conwell improved his ranking in what was billed as a WBC semi-final eliminator. One judge had it even, 95-95, while the other two scored it for Conwell, 98-92 and 96-94.
The son of the beloved former champion of the same name, Fernando Vargas Jr. (7-0, 7 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada hammered overnmatched local Alejandro Martinez (3-3-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles, California en route to a second-round stoppage to open the pay-per-view telecast.
Vargas, 150, utilized his natural size advantage to control the first round before opening up offensively to start the second. Martinez, 151.2, was outgunned and hit the canvas after a combination early in the round. Referee Ray Corona took a good look at Martinez, but allowed the bout to continue before another two-punch combination forced Martinez to slide to the canvas and forced the stoppage at 2:40 of round two.
Super bantamweight prospect Nathan Rodriguez (10-0, 7 KOs) of Pico Rivera, California turned back a game Jerson Ortiz (17-6, 8 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua to score a wide eight-round unanimous decision in a bout tougher than the scores would lead you to believe.
Rodriguez, 123.4, scored a knockdown during an exchange early in the third. Ortiz, 123.8, opted for the offense is the best defense approach and was downed again midway through the round.
Through three rounds a distance result looked unlikely, but Ortiz landed some windmill shots to some effect in the fourth before Rodriguez turned back the tide late in the round. The two would engage in two-way exchanges down the stretch of the fight, as Ortiz made a fight out of it after the bleak beginning. The judges could not be swayed to credit Ortiz much for his effort, as Rodriguez took the bout and the minor WBC FECARBOX title by scores of 80-70 and 79-71 twice.
In an upset, Eduardo Estela (14-1, 9 KOs) of Montevideo, Uruguay spoiled the previously unblemished record Ruben Torres (19-1, 16 KOs) of Santa Monica, California via a hard-fought eight-round split decision.
Estela, 136, staggered Torres, 136.2, against the ropes midway through the first, scoring a knockdown and prompting a count from referee Thomas Taylor. Estela pressed for the remainder of the round, but Torres managed to regain his footing.
Torres fared much better in rounds two and three before Estela closed out the fourth strong, knocking the Californian off balance late in the round. Estela continued as the aggressor through the late rounds, forcing the crowd favorite Torres to fight on the move or with his back to the ropes much of the time. Torres stood his ground and fought at a beneficial distance in the eighth to close out the bout, but in the end it was not enough to leave Carson with his unbeaten record intact. Two judges scored in favor of Estela, 78-73 and 76-75. Torres took the dissenting card 76-75.
One of two sons of Fernando Vargas on the card, Amado Vargas (5-0, 2 KOs) of Las Vegas passed a tougher-than-expected test in the form of Osmar Olmos Hernandez (1-2) of Santa Clarita, California.
Vargas, 125.8, opened the four-round bout at a frantic pace, eventually downing Olmos Hernandez, 124.4, with an overhand right early in the first round. Two follow-up lefts would cost the young Vargas a point as referee Jerry Cantu ruled they had come after the knockdown was scored.
Olmos Hernandez finished the first with renewed vigor and carried that energy into the second frame. The stanza would feature back-and-forth action as both Vargas and Olmos Hernandez swung for the fences with little regard for defense.
As the fight wound down, Vargas settled into more of a boxer’s posture which enabled the offspring “El Feroz” to cruise to a unanimous decision by scores of 39-35 and 38-36 twice.
Slick southpaw Austin Brooks (9-0, 3 KOs) of La Mesa, California pounded away at sturdy Jesus Roman (8-6, 3 KOs) of Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico en route to a third-round stoppage.
Brooks,129, opted to fight at close range despite his size advantage and was just too quick and strong for the game Roman, 129.6. The Mexican native fought hard throughout but ultimately wilted to the mat after a barrage in third. Referee Jerry Cantu waved off the contest at 2:03 of the round.
Local middleweight prospect Eric Priest (9-0, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles barely broke a sweat before scoring a three-knockdown KO of Luis Alberto Vera (11-22-2, 1 KO) of Buenos Aires.
Priest, 160, flurried Vera, 159.8, to the mat for two quick knockdowns in the opening round. Vera had no answer for anything Priest had to offer and was put down a third time by a stinging body shot moments later. Referee Thomas Taylor stopped the bout immediately after Vera took to a knee for the third knockdown.
Jacob Macalolooy (4-0, 3 KOs) of Union City, California remained unbeaten with a second-round stoppage of Terrance Jarmon (3-2, 1 KO) of Toledo, Ohio to open tonight’s card.
Macalolooy, 146.8, dropped Jarmon, 144, late in the first with an overhand left. The southpaw Jarmon fought in survival mode for the remainder of the first and survived to the bell. However it was just a matter of time before Macalolooy ended the bout, dropping Jarmon early in the second, prompting a stoppage from refereeJerry Cantu at the 1:02 mark of round two.
EARLY RESULTS FROM INGLEWOOD, CA (KOVALEV – PULEV)
Jurmain McDonald shocked Evan Holyfield by scoring a one-punch second round knockout in their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.
In round two, McDonald placed a perfect right to the face that sent Holyfield face down, and the fight was stopped at 1:56.
McDonald, 153.5 lbs of Jefferson City, MO is now 7-5 with three knockouts. Holyfield, 153 lbs of Atlanta, GA is 9-1.
Fernando Vargas Jr. remained undefeated with a first-round stoppage over Terrance Jarmon in a battle of undefeated super welterweights.
In round one, Vargas dropped Jarmon with a straight left. Seconds later, it was another left that sent Jarmon down for a second time. The fight was ended with…you guessed it…another straight left that put Jarmon down for a third and final time and the fight was stopped at 2:25.
Vargas Jr., 151.5 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-0 with six knockouts. Jarmon, 148 lbs of Toledo, OH is 3-1.
Amado Vargas remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Anel Dudo
In round four, Vargas was deducted a point for a low blow.
Vargas landed 77 of 389 punches; Dudo was 39 of 187.
Vargas, 130.5 lbs of Las Vegas, NV won by 39-36 tallies on all cards and is now 4-0. Dudo, 128.5 lbs of Aurora, CO is now 1-4.
Vargas Brothers, Fernando Jr. and Amado Score Knockouts in Mexico
LAS VEGAS, NV (July 24, 2021) – Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas, Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs) and brother Amado “El Malvado” Vargas (3-0, 2 KO), the sons of former two-time light middleweight world champion, Fernando Vargas, returned to action last night, Friday July 23, 2021, in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico. The card titled, “Campeonata Nacional “Mosca” Cuentas Pendientes”, was presented by GRAND MEX-ENT, in association with the WBC.
Middleweight Fernando Vargas Jr., won his bout against Abel Luna by way of a third-round technical knockout in impressive fashion
“I wanted to put on a show, and give those who were here live as well as those who paid for the PPV a great show,” said Vargas Jr. “This is just the beginning, I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I am very focused and want to achieve my life-long goal of becoming a world champion.”
Featherweight Amado Vargas won his bout against Fernando De La Cruz by way of a first-round KO.
“It is a good feeling to know that all the hard work I put into training camp paid off and that the result I wanted occurred,” said Amado Vargas, after his first-round knockout. “Fighting is the family business, and I am glad to have been on the same card as my brother, as I continue to grow as a fighter, I will take it one step at a time with short-term goals that lead to bigger goals.”
“We’re really excited about the future of both Vargas brothers,” said Jose De La Cruz, who is the co-manager of the Vargas brothers with Egis Klimas. “A lot is asked of them because of their last name, and the expectations that come with it, but each and every time they step up they deliver. The future looks bright for both of them.”
Fernando Vargas Jr. and Brother Amado in Action this Friday in Mexico
LAS VEGAS, NV (July 21, 2021) – Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs) and brother Amado “El Malvado” Vargas (2-0, 1 KO), the sons of former two-time light middleweight world champion, Fernando Vargas, will be action this Friday July 23, 2021, in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico. The show titled, “Campeonata Nacional “Mosca” Cuentas Pendientes”, a $12.99 PPV event, is presented by GRAND MEX-ENT, in association with the WBC.
Fernando Vargas Jr., age 24, stands 5? 11? and fights out of the southpaw stance. Campaigning at middleweight, Vargas Jr. aspires of becoming a world champion one day. He knows he has a long road ahead but has tremendous confidence in himself.
“I grew up in boxing having been around the numerous gyms my dad took me to as a kid,” said Vargas Jr., who will be facing Able Luna of Mexico. “I didn’t have an extensive amateur career, but I’ve been sparring top pros since I was a teenager. I believe in myself, and I know I have the drive to make it in boxing. I’m going to do everything possible to make my dreams of become a world champion come true. I’m grateful to my dad for always being in my corner and I can’t wait to fight this Friday in Mexico, where the fans are the greatest.”
Amado Vargas, age 21, stands 5? 8?, and fights out of the orthodox stance in the featherweight division. Known for his great footwork, Amado also has dreams and aspirations of become a world champion.
“I made my pro debut earlier this year and I was able to get the knockout, which was an incredible feeling,” stated Amado Vargas, who spares off against Fernando De La Cruz. “There is nothing like growing up in a boxing family with a dad who accomplished some tremendous feats in this sport, like becoming a world champion at age 21. I just want to follow in my dad’s footsteps but make my own path. This Friday I’ll be fighting alongside my brother for the first time as a pro, and it’s going to be fun. Fighting in Mexico is always fun because the fans are so passionate.”
Fernando Vargas Jr. and Amado are both co-managed by famed adviser Egis Klimas, who was voted 2016 Manager of the Year from the Boxing Writers Association of America, for guiding Vasyl Lomachenko and Sergey Kovalev to the pinnacle of the boxing world, and Jose De La Cruz, who is best known for making Jorge Linares a multiple world champion.