DEONTAY WILDER VS. ROBERT HELENIUS & CALEB PLANT VS. ANTHONY DIRRELL FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

BROOKLYN – October 13, 2022 – Boxing superstar and former longtime heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference as the two power-punchers promised fireworks when they meet in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The press conference also featured an intense verbal back and forth between former world champions and super middleweight rivals Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell, who square off in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event of the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Barclays Center:

DEONTAY WILDER

“We were sparring partners and we respect each other, but don’t you worry, the beast will come out on Saturday night. It’s going to be fireworks for sure.

“The second phase of my career is going to be for the people. When my statue was unveiled in my hometown, it meant a lot to me, because I saw all the people who united to celebrate me and my accomplishments.

“I have tremendous respect for Robert. We’ve known each other for years. The reason I agreed to take this fight is because he’s on a winning streak. He’s been looking great. When they said this would be a title eliminator, I was excited, because if I’m going to be here, why not compete for something worth fighting for?

“There’s an electrifying energy that this arena possesses. I’ve had some of my most exciting knockouts right here. When I got off the plane, the energy just felt amazing. It almost feels like a second home to me.

“I put on my best performances here at Barclays Center. I’m not looking for anything less than another great performance. There’s a lot on the line and I think that I have the right opponent to give the fans what they want to see.

“We both have the warrior mentality. When you fight with your heart, you’re willing to go out on your shield. That’s what everyone is going to see on Saturday.

“You can’t look past Robert Helenius. I put in over 700 rounds in training camp and it’s been tremendous ever since pre-camp. We had to slow down a little bit to make sure I didn’t overtrain. You can go so many years doing the same thing over and over, but it becomes boring. The way we did this training camp was really refreshing.

“Many people have said many things to me about wanting to fight, but when the time came, they went another way. I’ve asked around about Oleksandr Usyk and I’ve been told he’s a man of his word. Upon me being victorious, we’ll see what happens.

“This whole second phase of my career is all about having fun. I always tell people that I’m happy and at peace in my life. Where I am, the grass is green. I’m just looking forward to Saturday night.”

ROBERT HELENIUS

“I’ve dedicated all my life to this sport. So this means everything to me. I did all my work so that I could bring my best self to this fight. I’m ready.

“Of course I respect his power. We’ve worked on our footwork and jabs a lot and we’ve been at it the whole year.

“I like being the underdog. It gives me more strength and more power in training camp and when we eventually get into the ring.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe in myself. If I didn’t think that I could become the heavyweight world champion, I would have got an easier job.

“Sitting here, I don’t know what else to say. I feel like this is my time now and we’re going to give everyone a great show.

“Sparring is much different than a fight. We know that the punches are going to be for real this time. You’re going to see a smart Helenius who’s moving well in this fight.

“I don’t think about the layoffs that Deontay and I have. Sometimes I feel much better when I’ve had a lot of time off. What matters is your mentality, because if you are mentally prepared, that will make the difference.

“I’ve fought at Barclays Center before and the atmosphere is crazy. I feel like we’re going to have the same thing on Saturday night and I can’t wait.”

CALEB PLANT

“It’s been a minute since I’ve been in the ring, but after the Canelo Alvarez fight we got back to work and kept working on certain things. I’ve kept working ever since. Come Saturday night, I’m excited to show everyone what we’ve been working on.

“Leading up to this fight he’s had a lot to say about how much he doesn’t like me. But I’m not here to talk about emotions. I’m here to do a job.

“I have half the fights he has and our resumes are similar. So I’d ask, are you a bum? Because you said that all I fight are bums.

“He’s a former two-time world champion, so we’re prepared and we worked really hard for this moment. At the end of the day, I think he barks more than he bites.

“Becoming a two-time world champion would mean everything to me. I worked tirelessly my whole life to get to this point, but I have a lot more to give the fans and the sport of boxing.

“You don’t get to the world title fights without focusing on the fight in front of you. I have a fight on Saturday that I’m focused on and that’s the only thing on my mind.

“I’m looking to get my hand raised. Whatever way that it happens. It’s going to be fireworks. There’s going to be great action all night long. Everyone should tune in, because we’re going to turn up.

“I just feel like I’m going to put a whooping on him and he’ll run off into the sunset. I hope he’s fully prepared.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“Just don’t get on your bike Caleb. Tell me who he’s fought? He’s fought nobody. He better be ready for this.

“Being an underdog is just another way for me to make more money. That’s just people’s opinions at the end of the day, and I’m fine with it.

“I don’t play with kids. He’s a kid to me. I don’t care about his social media posts. That means nothing to me. At the end of the day, I’m going to get my hand raised.

“Sometimes I fight better when there’s emotions involved. We have different game plans for different people, because not everyone fights the same. We have a game plan with Caleb and we’re going to execute.

“SugarHill Steward is a great trainer and he’s been with me since I was a teenager. We’re really familiar with each other and that will help us.

“Caleb hasn’t shown me anything special. Period. In any fight. He’s a good boxer, but it’s nothing special. He better be ready for Saturday, because I am.

“He’s been trying to get my attention all camp. But I don’t care about him. There’s nothing he can do to me.

“Only way he retires me is if he runs around the ring until I’m old. He can’t hit. What can he do? Who has he whooped?

“We’re going in there and giving it our all. My plan is to go in there and whoop his ass.”

# # #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

Wilder vs. Helenius will see former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder take on top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator on Saturday, October 15 topping a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

In the co-feature, former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant faces two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator between 168-pound rivals.

The telecast will feature undefeated Cuban sensation Frank Sanchez battling Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron in a 10-round heavyweight duel, while top bantamweight contenders Gary Antonio Russell and Emmanuel Rodriguez meet in a 12-round rematch opening the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand www.foxdeportes.com, follow #WilderHelenius, 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.

CALEB PLANT VS. ANTHONY DIRRELL VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

BROOKLYN – October 5, 2022 – Former super middleweight world champions Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell shared insights into their respective training camps and more during a virtual press conference Wednesday ahead of their upcoming WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator on Saturday, October 15 in the co-main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The former 168 pound world champions made their mutual intentions clear at the fight’s introductory press conference, with each declaring that they would have their hand raised on October 15. The former IBF champion Plant returns to the ring after his first career defeat in a 2021 undisputed title fight against Canelo Alvarez, while the two-time WBC champion Dirrell seeks to add another signature victory on his way to a third world title opportunity.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

CALEB PLANT

“He can feel how he wants, but he’s not going to do anything on fight night. He says he’s ‘The Dog’, but he does a lot of woofing. He woofs a whole lot because he’s a puppy dog, but he doesn’t follow through. He’s trying to hype himself up.

“I’m going to put a vicious whooping on him on October 15. I’m going to teach him a life lesson when we get into the ring.

“He’s retiring after this. He’s done. I’m going to beat him in such a way that he won’t want to be a part of this anymore.

“I’ve been having a lot of fun in the gym. This has been the best quality of sparring that I’ve ever had, and the most success I’ve had in sparring during camp. I sparred Carlos Adames, Shane Mosley Jr., Kyrone Davis and other great fighters. It’s been top quality sparring. Having Stephen Edwards on the team with my dad has given us great chemistry. We’re relaxed and easygoing, but also getting after it.

“He’s not a bully. He likes to act like a bully. I don’t care where he’s from. His team has been barking for years, but none of that means anything to me.

“I’m only focused on the task at hand and the fight in front of me. Just because I know that I’m going to beat him, doesn’t mean that I’m looking past him. The only way to get to your long term goals is by accomplishing your short term ones.

“I’ve always been about legacy. I know that if I make the right moves in the ring, everything else will come with it. First thing first is handling business on October 15. That’s the first step toward bigger and better fights and cementing my legacy as the greatest super middleweight of this era.

“He’s never had one successful title defense. He knocked out a blown up middleweight in his last fight. We’re not even in the same galaxy as that guy he fought. The list goes on and on, and he says what he wants, but when is the last time he beat a true super middleweight?

“The biggest thing I took from the Canelo Alvarez fight is the experience in general. Experience isn’t something you can buy. You have to go through it to get it. Obviously I came up short and there’s no excuses there. I got right back with my team and went back to work.

“I’m going in there focused. We have a game plan and we’re going to get the job done in fashion. Whether that’s stopping him, or putting a whooping on him for 12 rounds, regardless I’m going to have my hand raised.

“My hunger comes because I keep the priority the priority. I don’t box to be famous or rich. It’s nice, but that was never the main goal. The goal is to be one of the greatest of all time. No matter what I have, I keep the mentality of repping for the ‘have nots.’ You can’t accomplish what I want to accomplish without that focus.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“He’s just one of those guys that I want to really f*** up. That’s the task at hand, get in there and f*** him up.

“The game plan is to go in there and be ‘The Dog.’ If I can do that, I win the fight for sure. I’m just really ready to get in the ring and have my hand raised.

“My camp has been really good and injury-free. I’ve been getting rounds in week after week and I’m ready to go. If I could fight tomorrow, I would.

“You don’t change too much from camp to camp, you just adjust tactics and things like that. Every camp you go in there and give it your all. We’ve tweaked what we had to in order to prepare for Plant.

“If you want to be great you have to make sacrifices. If you don’t want to be great, you won’t do that. I’m training my ass off and I’m ready for Caleb Plant.

“I’ve been working with SugarHill Steward since I was 13-years-old. He’s an A+ trainer and everyone knows it. A lot of people want to go to him now. He’s one of the family members now and he has been for years. When you have someone in your corner that you can trust, it really boosts your confidence more.

“I know what I’m doing. I’ve seen Caleb fight and he’s a nice boxer. But I’ve fought those guys before and it’s nothing. He’s just another guy in front of me who wants to defeat me.

“Caleb was boxing well in the early rounds against Canelo Alvarez, but then he got on his horse and ran for the rest of it. He was getting on his horse and moving. That’s what I saw.

“I know what I’m capable of. But I want to show everybody else what I’m still able to do. If I didn’t believe in myself, then I wouldn’t be here.

“Me growing up in the city of Flint and being great and being the best person I can be is a positive message. That’s what I want the kids there to see. If you give it your all, nobody can complain about that.

“Caleb Plant is the only thing that’s crossed my mind. That’s all I’m focused on. Everything else can wait until after the fact.”

# # #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

ANTHONY DIRRELL TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

DELRAY BEACH, FL. – September 29, 2022 – Former two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell stated his clear intention to leave the ring with a victory when he takes on former super middleweight champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“I don’t care about Caleb Plant and I don’t care what he says,” said Dirrell. “If I go in there and fight up to my capabilities, I’ll come out victorious for sure. I’m doing this for myself. If you’re doing it for something other than yourself and your family, then you’re doing it wrong I think. I’m here to prove to myself that I still have it. I don’t care what people think or say. As long as I keep positivity in my circle, then I’ll be fine.”

Dirrell has conducted training with his longtime coach, the renowned SugarHill Steward, at their typical base camp at Delray Boxing in Delray Beach, Florida. As a fighter who has frequented the region throughout his career, he made sure to pass along his support for those in the state affected by Hurricane Ian.

“Luckily the area we’re staying in didn’t get hit that hard by Hurricane Ian,” said Dirrell. “So we’re alright thankfully, but I know others haven’t been as fortunate and I just hope everyone is staying as safe as possible.

“Camp has been good and I’m feeling healthy. We’re just working on what we need to work on to beat Caleb Plant. That’s it. We come up with game plans and stick to those game plans. If something isn’t working, we move to the next game plan. We’re just ready to fight.”

A native of Flint, Michigan, Dirrell will look to add a signature victory to his already storied career, against another fighter looking to regain their championship status in Plant. Although Dirrell fought on the undercard of Plant’s previous fight, an undisputed title bout loss to Canelo Alvarez, he has kept his focus on his own training instead of studying the bout.

“I’m not even really thinking about Caleb and what he does honestly,” said Dirrell. “I only saw Caleb’s fight against Canelo when I was at the arena. Bits and pieces of it. We know what Caleb does and we know what he brings to the table. All I worry about is what I can do as a fighter.”

Having twice captured the super middleweight championship, Dirrell will return to fight at Barclays Center for the second time. His first outing came in his first ever world title fight, as he fought Sakio Bika to a draw in 2013, before beating him in the rematch to win the WBC belt. Although he has fond memories of Brooklyn, Dirrell has maintained his laser focus on the task at hand on October 15.

“Brooklyn has always been good, but I’m just focused on the fight,” said Dirrell. “People get too caught up in circumstances and lose focus on what they have to do as fighters. I’m always going to go in there and be ‘The Dog.’”

As fight night nears, the veteran Dirrell knows that looking past a fight can have dire consequences. Even for a fighter who has admitted that he’s nearing the end of his career, he’s maintained his dedication to the day in and day out work that has helped him already accomplish so much.

“We’re going to have to see what happens in this fight,” said Dirrell. “I’m not worried about anything after this fight. That’s out of my control right now. What’s in my control is what’s happening in the gym every day.”

# # #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

VIDEO: Caleb Plant Media Workout in advance of Anthony Dirrell Showdown

CALEB PLANT LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – September 28, 2022 – Former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant held a media workout in Las Vegas Tuesday as he prepares to face 168-pound rival and two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by the return of former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder taking on top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator.

Here is what Plant, and his new trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards had to say Tuesday from DLX Boxing in Las Vegas:

CALEB PLANT

“To me, Dirrell was the one who was tense at our press conference. He was getting frustrated and getting loud and couldn’t think of anything to say. What I took away is that I’m on his mind. I feel like I’m living rent-free in his head. He knows he has a top-quality opponent in front of him and someone he can’t mess with. I don’t know where his head’s at, but I know where mine is and I’m ready to rock.

“I’m feeling really good. We’ve been having a great training camp with excellent sparring. It’s been a little bit since I’ve been in the ring, so I’m just excited for the buildup.

“Me and my dad (Richie Plant) brought in a great trainer in ‘Breadman’. I’m just doing a crazy amount of work in the gym sparring top guys. I’m fully-prepared and ready to roll.

“Regardless of who it is in the ring, it’s just somebody who’s in the way of my goals and what I set out to do. If you’re in my way, I take that personally. I’m not just disciplined during camp, I’m working like this year-round.

“I’m just looking to make a statement and put on a big show. I’m coming off the big fight against Canelo Alvarez, and I’ve just been training hard. Ever since that fight, my team has been in the dungeon and we can’t wait for the bell to ring so we can show the world what we’re working on.

“Right now all I’m thinking about is October 15. I wanted the biggest fight that could possibly be made coming off a loss, and this was the name we got. He’s a former two-time champion, so this is the fight that I wanted. After this, I’m looking for the next biggest fight that can be made. Doesn’t matter if it’s Jermall Charlo, David Benavidez or anyone else.

“I feel young and I feel fresh. I’m nowhere close to being done with everything that I want to accomplish in boxing.

“I’m excited to be fighting at Barclays Center for the first time. I know I’ve got fans in that area so I can’t wait to pull up and see what the energy is like. Most importantly, I’m just ready to fight.

“My wife Jordan gave me a pair of Grant gloves that I train with, and for this fight she got our daughter’s name engraved on them, which really helps remind me what I’m fighting for while I’m in the gym training.”

STEPHEN “BREADMAN” EDWARDS, Plant’s Trainer

“We’re having a great training camp. Caleb gives you 100% every day. He’s a fast learner, he’s organized and he’s on schedule. I can’t say enough about his work ethic. Now we just need to translate it to the fight.

“Caleb has a big upside and he doesn’t have a lot of wear and tear for a 30-year-old. He’s got a lot of potential and he’s in a stacked division. He’s got a chance to really leave his legacy in the game by coming out on top in some of these marquee matchups.

“This is going to be a really good fight. I have a lot of respect for Anthony Dirrell. He’s a good fighter and a good puncher. I do believe that Caleb has the decided speed advantage and is a little bit of a better athlete. The bad blood makes the fight intriguing, because when guys have personal issues, it tends to make them fight harder. I expect a violent fight with both guys being tested, but I believe Caleb has more advantages.

“I have to give Caleb days off to take his mind off of boxing, because he works so hard and is an intense guy. He goes 100% every workout and that’s a testament to his ability level. When you get the most out of your workouts, you keep progressing and getting better and better.

“I want to take it one fight at a time. What happens in the future is not really my decision. Hopefully we’re going to be successful and I’ll have a long stay with Caleb. I’m definitely not looking past this opponent. Dirrell says he has a lot of animosity for Caleb, so I expect it to be a really hard fight.”

# # #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

AUDIO: Anthony Dirrell Media Interview

VIDEO: Anthony Dirrell Media Interview

AUDIO: Caleb Plant vs Anthony Dirrell Heated Press Conference

VIDEO: Caleb Plant vs Anthony Dirrell Heated Press Conference

DEONTAY WILDER VS. ROBERT HELENIUS & CALEB PLANT VS. ANTHONY DIRRELL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

BROOKLYN – August 30, 2022 – Former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius previewed their upcoming WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator during a press conference, appearing via satellite, before they meet on Saturday, October 15 topping a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The press conference also featured former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell meeting face to face as the 168-pound rivals prepare for a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event.

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

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from Barclays Center:

DEONTAY WILDER

“We’ve put in over 400 rounds so far and training camp has been great. I’m trying to do something different with adding Don House to the team working in Las Vegas. We wanted to change up some things, go more rounds and see what happened.

“This training sounds like it could be a lot on your body, but when you’re in shape physically and mentally, nothing is impossible.

“I’ve had a great career and now I’m back again for my second reign. It’s amazing to reminisce about all the years and about how I got to where I am now. It’s been an honor. We had a gameplan and we executed that game plan.

“I’m looking forward to October 15 and sharing the ring with Robert. I highly respect Robert and his team. We’ve always had a connection, but unfortunately in this business, you have to go against each other sometimes. But make no mistake, just because we know each other, it doesn’t mean this fight won’t be interesting.

“Every time I fight, you’re on the edge of your seat, because I’m going in there 110%. I’m looking forward to this fight and coming back to Barclays Center, where some of my most exciting knockouts have occurred. I have remarkable memories there and I can’t wait to display my talent.

“I know what Helenius is capable of doing and I know what kind of heart he has. He’s coming to bring his best and I always bring mine. This is a serious fight between two warriors in the heavyweight division. We’re coming to put it all on the line.

“Getting a statue in my hometown let me know that there was more work to do. I have to continue to fight and motivate and inspire. This reign is going to be a special one, because it’s going to be dedicated to the people.

“Over these years everyone has seen what I’m capable of doing and what my mindset is when I step in there. Everyone knows what I’m coming with on the 15^th and what we’re going to give. Whether it’s for our family, our country or our fans, there’s one night and one fight, it’s going to be fireworks.”

ROBERT HELENIUS

“I’m feeling really good and training camp is going great. I’ve fought a lot of good opponents and had a long career so far. This is of course a big fight for me. I have respect for Deontay, but when I come to America, I’m going to give everything that I have.

“I’m ready to do everything in my power to win. I only took two weeks off after my last fight and I’ve been training since then. I know what it takes to win at this level.

“I’ve promised my fans in Finland that I would bring the world title back home and sometimes you have to go through a lot to get there. But I’m going to do everything I can. We’re doing all the extra work that we need to.

“This is a huge deal. All I’ve ever wanted is to get the chance at the world heavyweight title. That’s why I’ve continued to fight. If I didn’t see myself becoming a world champion, I would have stopped and found a much easier job to do.

“I’m thankful to Deontay for his nice words, but on October 15 I’m going to bring the Viking spirit into the ring.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’m feeling good and I’m thankful to my team. It feels good to be back and I’m excited for my first time fighting in New York. I’m looking to be impressive on October 15.

“Dirrell has a lot to say about me and says that I hate him, and that’s a strong word, but it’s true. I guess it irks him and it irks me. I don’t hold hands with guys in my division. He doesn’t even know me though. October 15 there are definitely going to be fireworks.

“When I beat him, it will be because I’m better than him. But he already knows that and that’s why he hates me.

“You saw what Uzcategui did to his brother and what I did to him. I always knew he was a possibility. He couldn’t even hold onto his title long enough for us to unify and now he’s big mad.

“I try to approach every fight the same and treat every fight the same. I’m all in. I’m focused and motivated. I have a great team and we’re putting together a great plan. I just can’t wait until October 15.

“I’m looking to put on a great performance and get my hand raised. I’m here to make a big statement. I want to clear out the rest of the division.

“I’m in a blessed position to be in a title eliminator, but it doesn’t add to how focused and disciplined I am. It doesn’t matter if it was a four round fight. I’m training hard and I’ve got a lot of momentum.

“I’ve been doing my job and staying focused. I always keep boxing first in my life whether I have a fight coming up or not. I still feel like I’m hunting. There are a lot of things that I want to accomplish in this sport, but first things first and that’s handling business on October 15.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“I’m ready to fight and beat some ass. He’s running. He’s been running from me. Can you name somebody that likes him? Nobody likes him. Canelo Alvarez smacked you, remember that. I wouldn’t ever let another man smack me.

“He fought tomato cans and cab drivers. I give him respect for Jose Uzcategui. But he was supposed to fight me before Canelo and he backed out of it.

“I’ve fought the best, who’s he fought? He’s fought nobody. He knows it. Forget my experience, I’m beating him down.

“This is just another fight. I’m preparing like it’s any other fight. When it comes down to it on October 15, he’ll see.

“I’m just looking to be me and put on a great performance. Everyone knows I’m the dog and that’s what I’m going to show once again.

“I always do what needs to be done outside of the ring. I’ve kept my body where it needs to be. If you take care of your body, your body will take care of you.”

# # #

FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER BATTLES HARD-HITTING ROBERT HELENIUS IN EXPLOSIVE SHOWDOWN ON FOX SPORTS PBC PAY-PER-VIEW SATURDAY, OCT. 15 AT BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

BROOKLYN – (Aug. 17, 2022) – Former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder will take on top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius in an explosive 12-round WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator between ferocious punchers in the main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, Oct. 15 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

In the co-feature, former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant faces two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell in a highly anticipated 12-round WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator between 168-pound rivals. Two additional pay-per-view undercard bouts will be announced to round out the action-packed four-fight lineup presented by PBC.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions and TGB Promotions, go on sale Friday, Aug. 19 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase in-person at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning Friday at noon ET.

Pre-sale tickets are available TOMORROW, Thursday, Aug. 18 from 10 a.m. ET until 10 p.m. ET through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com with the code: BOXING

“Deontay Wilder has established himself as must-see, live or on TV, because of his incredible knockout prowess. To have him make his return to boxing against another power puncher in Robert Helenius at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, adds another element of excitement to an outstanding card,’’ said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Caleb Plant vs. Anthony Dirrell is an old-fashioned slugfest that is sure to deliver drama with two highly-skilled fighters squaring off. With two more sensational matchups to be added to the PPV, fans that tune into FOX Sports PBC PPV or attend live at Barclays Center will be treated to an incredible night of boxing.’’

One of the greatest knockout artists in boxing history, Wilder (42-2-1, 41 KOs) is on a mission to become a two-time world heavyweight champion following a first reign that included 10 title defenses, a feat accomplished by only seven heavyweights in boxing history. The “Bronze Bomber” now returns to Barclays Center, a venue where he has fought four times and thrilled the crowd with some of his most spectacular knockouts. The 36-year-old slugger from Tuscaloosa, Alabama earned his moniker by winning bronze at the 2008 Olympics. He rejuvenated the heavyweight division when he captured the WBC belt in January 2015, becoming one of boxing’s biggest stars with an all-time heavyweight best 91.1% knockout percentage and a captivating personality to match. Coming off an epic trilogy with Tyson Fury, Wilder remains must-see television and one of the greatest fighters of this era.

“It’s been a long journey for me and as of today it continues. I thought so many times about whether I should stay out of the business or come back,’’ said Wilder. “Once I got my statue in my hometown and saw so many people arrive and celebrate with me and my family, to see all the emotions, grown men crying in front of their children and saying he is a real true king, made me feel like my job is not done. So, here I am once again, looking forward to returning to the ring. I am looking forward to coming to Barclays Center, a place where I have had my most devastating knockouts and a place I consider my second home. So where all my Bombzquad people at? It’s time to put on your war gear. And let’s go to work, baby. Bombzquad is back!”

Helenius (30-3, 19 KOs) stamped himself as one of the world’s best heavyweights with consecutive stoppage wins over the previously unbeaten Adam Kownacki, including an October 2021 sixth-round TKO win over Kownacki in Helenius’ last outing. Born in Sweden and fighting out of Mariehamn, Finland, Helenius established himself as one of Europe’s top heavyweights prior to making his U.S. debut in 2019. The 38-year-old “Nordic Nightmare” has won six of his last seven bouts.

“It’s great to be back at Barclays Center in an even bigger fight than my last one. I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time and I’m going to be ready,’’ said Helenius. “I’m going to produce an even bigger upset than I did with Kownacki. I’m going for the belt, so this is a fight to prepare me to achieve that goal. I can only become the best heavyweight in the world by beating the best and that’s what I intend to do on October 15.’’

The 30-year-old Plant (21-1, 12 KOs) used his sublime boxing skills to rise through the ranks of the super middleweight division. In his first world championship fight, the Ashland City, Tennessee-native Plant, who now lives and trains in Las Vegas, took the fight to veteran Jose Uzcategui and won the title in a hard-fought unanimous decision in 2019. Plant dropped the first match of his career in his last fight, losing to Canelo Alvarez in an undisputed super middleweight championship fight on November 6. He will look to rebound and get back on the world title track in a grudge match against his rival, Dirrell.

“I’m looking forward to fighting at Barclays Center for the first time,” said Plant. “I know the fight fans in Brooklyn are going to come out for this card. I’m feeling good and I’ve been in the gym working hard since my last fight. I’m going to put on an excellent performance and retire this guy.”

Dirrell (34-2, 25 KOs) is a two-time super middleweight world champion who won one of the toughest battles of his life when he beat non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2008. The 37-year-old from Flint, Michigan won his first world title with a unanimous decision victory over Sakio Bika in 2014. He lost the title the next year via majority decision to Badou Jack. He would have to wait four years for another opportunity but successfully regained it with a technical split-decision over Avni Yildirim. He lost the title again, this time on a ninth-round TKO to David Benavidez in 2019. Dirrell is coming off of a fourth-round KO victory over Marcos Hernandez in his most recent match on November 6.

“I’m real excited to be back in the ring on October 15,” said Dirrell. “I’m especially excited to be fighting at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. This is a special place for me. I fought Sakio Bika for a world title at this same venue, so I’m happy to be back. This fight means even more to me because it’s one day after my birthday, which is October 14. So I’m looking forward to giving the fans a great show, getting the big victory on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View and then celebrating it all after.”

# # #

VIDEO: Caleb Plant Talks about Anthony Dirrell being Next Opponent

AUDIO: Anthony Dirrell Comments on Marcos Hernandez Knockout

VIDEO: Anthony Dirrell Comments on Marcos Hernandez Knockout

FOLLOW CANELO – PLANT LIVE FROM RINGSIDE

Follow all the action as Canelo Alvarez and Caleb Plant battle it out from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The Round by Round will be done from ringside. The action begins at 9 pm ET / 6 PM PM with a three fight undercard featuring former two-time world champion Anthony Dirrell, Former 122 lbs world champion Ray Beltran and Elvis Rodriguez

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED; THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY

12 ROUNDS–IBF/WBA/WBC/WBO SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE–CANELO ALVAREZ (56-1-2, 38 KOS) VS CALEB PLANT (21-0, 12 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
ALVAREZ*	10	9	10	10	9	10	9	10	9	10	KO		96
PLANT	9	10	9	9	10	9	10	9	10	9			94

Round 1 Jab from Plant….Chopping right from Canelo…Body work…Body shot

Round 2 Left hook from Canelo…Uppercut on inside..Left hook from Plant..Right from Canelo…Jab from Plant..Body shot..Left hook..Uppercut from Plant..Left hook from Canelo..Couple jabs from Plant…Left hook from Canelo..3 punch combo from Plant…Jab and right from Canelo..Rught..Right uppercut..

Round 3 Jab from Plant..Lead left from Canelo..2 left hooks…Jab by plant…Body shot from Canelo

Round 4 combination on ropes from Canelo..Jab from Plant..Body shot from Canelo..Right hand

Round 5 Left hook to body from Canelo..Flurry from Plant…Left from Canelo…

Round 6 Right left combo from Canelo..Nice left hook..Stiff jab from Plant…Jab from Canelo….Chopping right..Left hook..Jab from Canelo..Jab from Plant…Jab from Canelo

Round 7 Counter right from Plant…lead left hook from Canelo…Jab from Plant..Counter right…left hook to body from Canelo

Round 8 Double left hook from Canelo..Mouse under right eye of Canelo

Round 9 Body shots from Canelo..Jab to body…Left hook from Plant..Counter right..Left hook from Canelo…Right from Plant..combination from Plant…Body combination

Round 10 Body shots from Canelo

Round 11 BIG UPPERCUT AND DOWN GOES PLANT……hUGE FLURRY…PLANT IS WOBBLING ALL OVER AND THE RIMH AMD GETS DROPPED AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

10 Rounds–Super Middleweights–Anthony Dirrell (33-2-2, 24 KOs) vs Marcos Hernandez (15-4-2, 3 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Dirrell
Hernandez

10 Rounds–Featherweights–Rey Vargas (34-0, 22 KOs) vs Leonardo Baez (21-4, 12 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Vargas
Baez

Round 1:

10 Rounds–Super Lightweights–Elvis Rodriguez (11-1-1, 10 KOs) vs Juan Pablo Romero (14-0, 9 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Rodriguez
Romero

A Crown Fit for a King: Canelo wins the pieces to the super-middleweight title

By Norm Frauenheim (Ringside)-

LAS VEGAS – It was a coronation.

Canelo’s coronation

It even included a crown, worn by Saul Canelo Alvarez as he paraded around the ring moments after his eleventh-round stoppage of Caleb Plant for all the pieces to the super-middleweight title Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena

It was a crown symbolic of a lot. He’s the first undisputed champion in the history of a division that dates back to 1967. That’s 54 years. Lots of kings come, go and are toppled within that time span.

We’ll have to wait and see how long Canelo’s reign lasts. But his history will endure mostly because of his deliberate, tireless pursuit of excellence. Go ahead and argue all you want about how he would do in another generation or against legends that were around half-a-century ago. But it’s hard to argue with numbers. And Canelo is putting up a lot of them.

With the super-middleweight title, the Mexican, already a champion at junior-middleweight, middleweight and light-heavyweight, is just the sixth unified champion in any division during boxing’s four-belt era.

Yeah, the battered game has been corrupted by too many belts, too many acronyms and too many weight classes. That said, Canelo (57-1-2, 39 KOs) has been winning as many of them as he can. That’s all he can do. He stays busy in a sport increasingly defined by more and more idle time. Yet in 11 months, Canelo fought four times to win all four of the 168-pound titles.

He’s the reigning exception. Let him wear that crown. It fits.

It also rests on a redhead that had been fitted for it long before he ever began his 168-pound campaign. Plant (21-1, 12 KOs) was just the last domino to fall, just another piece on Canelo’s blueprint to dominance.

Plant, who held the International Boxing Federation’s version of the belt never had much of a chance throughout Showtime’s pay-per-view telecast. The betting odds declined before opening bell, from 10-to-1 to 7-1. Money on Plant was coming in from a crowd that loves to play longshots. Maybe, they were betting on Canelo breaking an ankle on his way to the ring and up those three steps through the ropes.

Didn’t happen.

Canelo’s predictable dominance was apparent from the first round to the end – 1:01 of the eleventh. That’s when Canelo finished Plant with a succession of punches for a second knockdown in the round. The first knockdown was the result of a crushing left hand and successive rights as Plant fell onto his hands and knees on the canvas, a beaten challenger.

“It wasn’t easy to get to this place,’’ said Canelo, whose ability to conquer the challenges were compensated Saturday night by a $40-miliion payday.

It probably won’t be easy to move on either. A date with David Benavidez, who fights next Saturday night in Phoenix? A move back up to light-heavy?

“We don’t know,’’ Canelo said. “First, we need to rest.’’

There were no immediate comments from Plant, a Tennessean who collected $10-million.

He and Canelo hugged in the middle of the ring after the fight. Plant was then taken to Las Vegas’ University Medical Center for observation.

“I have a lot of respect for Caleb Plant,’’ said Canelo, who was angered by much of Plant’s pre-fight trash talk. “He was a difficult opponent with a lot of ability, and I do respect him. We are both men at the end of the day. He wanted to fight me and still continue. I told him there’s no shame. We had a great fight tonight.

“He was making the fight pretty difficult, but Eddy (Reynoso) told me to just stick to the game plan in the last two rounds. In the end, I got him. That’s the way it had to finish. He was already hurt and I went for the kill.”

There’d be no crown if King Canelo hadn’t.

Anthony Dirrell wins, scoring a huge KO

It was a lousy day for just about anybody wearing Michigan State gear other than Anthony Dirrell.

Dirrell, wearing the Spartan logo on green trunks trimmed in white, won a few hours Saturday after the No. 3 Spartans lost at Purdue in the final fight before the Canelo Alvarez-Caleb Plant ,main event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
Dirrell (34-2-2, 25 KOs), a super-middleweight from Flint MI, did it spectacularly

Violently, too.

He delivered a right-handed wheelhouse upper-cut for a concussive knockout of Marcos Hernandez (15-5-2, 3 KOs) at 22 seconds of the fourth round. Hernandez never saw the punch coming. He had to be helped onto a stool, where he sat and tried to regain his consciousness for a few very long moments..

Rey Vargas says unbeaten, wins unanimous decision

Unbeaten Rey Vargas, a force at junior featherweight, moved up the scale. And he brought the force with him. He also stayed unbeaten.

Vargas (35-0, 22 KOs), long and lanky at 122 pounds, looked just as long and lanky at 126 Saturday with a skillful decision over fellow-Mexican Leonardo Baez (21-5, 12 KOs) on the pay-per-view part of the Showtime telecast of a card featuring super-middleweight Canelo Alvarez and Caleb Plant.

Vargas, a junior-featherweight champion trained by Mexican geat Nacho Beristain, employed his long arms and punching precision to leave Baez bloodied under one eye and beaten on every scorecard — 100-90, 99-91, 100-90.

Elvis Rodriguez storms back from loss with big KO

Elvis Rodriguez (12-1-1, 11 KOs) began to put prospect back into his resume.

The junior-welterweight from the Dominican Republic did so with power, scoring two knockdowns — one in the fourth and again in the fifth — for a convincing victory over Juan Pablo Romero (14-1, 9 KOs) of Mexico.He knocked out Romero with sweeping left hook in the closing seconds of the fifth round. Rodriguez, trained by Freddie Roach, raised a lot of questions about his future with a majority decision loss to Kenneth Sims Jr in May. He delivered a couple of answers Saturday night on the Canelo-Plant undercard.

Super-flyweight Fernando Diaz scores super KO

Fernando Diaz (10-1-1, 3 KOs), a super-flyweight from southern California, executed a left hook with perfect timing and unerring precision in the fourth fight on the Canelo-Plant card Saturday.. It landed,– boom — on Jan Salvatierra’s chin late in the fifth round.

Somehow, Salvatierra (7-1, 3 KOs) picked himself up and and on to his feet. But he didn;t stay there for long. Within a couple of seconds, he fell forward and into the ropes, a loser by knockout at 2:16 of the round.

Jose Antonio Meza survived a 1st round knockdown to eek out an eight-round unanimous decision over Jose Gomez in a super featherweight bout.

Meza, 132 lbs of Durango, MEX won by 76-75 tallies on all cards and is now 8-6. Gomez, 131 lbs of Huntington Park, CA is 12-1.

Mexican flyweight Velazquez scores scorecard shutout

Mexican flyweight Josesito Velazquez (14-0-1, 9 KOs) possessed more power and .and a lot more aggression, both enough to score a unanimous decision over Gilberto Mendoza (19-1-3, 10 KOs) of San Francisco in an eight-rounder, the second fight on the Canelo-Plant card. Velazquez scored a shutout (80-72) on all three scorecards.

First Bell: Rances Barthelemy opens the show with TKO win

In an empty building and in front of vacant seats, Cuban Rances Barthelemy (29-1-1, 15 KOs) got things started with a second round TKO of Argentine Gustvao Vittori (25-10-1, 12 KOs) in a junior-welterweight matinee on a card featuring Canelo Alvarez-Caleb Plant Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Barthelemy, a former junior-lightweight and lightweight champion, landed a quick succession of punches that put Vittori down in his corner, finished at 1:54 of the second round.

AUDIO: Anthony Dirrell talks about Marcos Hernandez fight on Canelo – Plant card

VIDEO: Anthony Dirrell talks about Marcos Hernandez fight on Canelo – Plant card

CANELO VS. PLANT SHOWTIME PPV UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (November 4, 2021) – Fighters competing on this Saturday’s Canelo Álvarez vs. Caleb Plant SHOWTIME PPV undercard went face-to-face and previewed their respective showdowns at a press conference on Thursday before they enter the ring in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Thursday’s press conference featured two-time super middleweight champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell and exciting contender “Madman” Marcos Hernández, who meet in the 10-round co-main event, former super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas and Mexico’s Leonardo Báez, who square off in a 10-round attraction, plus super lightweight contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero, who will battle in a 10-round fight that kicks off the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“Expect fireworks. I know Marcos brings a good game and he’s a come-forward fighter. It’s going to be a hot one. I’m trying to make my mark and get my shot at the winner of the main event. So I have to make a good statement. I know it won’t be easy and I’m ready for the challenge.

“This is a big opportunity under one of the biggest fights of this year. I need to get a win and get back to where I was. Once I get this victory on Saturday, we’ll see where the win takes me.

“I believe I’m still one of the elite fighters at 168 pounds. At the end of the day, what I think is all that matters. I bring a lot to the table. I don’t back down from anyone. Come Saturday, you’ll see what this camp did for me.

“I want to leave no doubt in peoples’ minds about who should have next at the super middleweight belts. I’m ready for this opportunity. I gave everything I had in camp and you’ll see it on Saturday.

“With me being a veteran in the game, I think I’m well-equipped to handle the winner of Saturday night’s main event, no matter who it is.

“I want to fight for something. At this point in my career, I want to fight for something and that’s those world titles. That’s what I’m looking to get to after this fight.”

MARCOS HERNÁNDEZ

“I’m thankful for this opportunity, and I’m looking forward to turning this into more opportunities past Saturday night.

“I’ve never said no to a fight. If the fight gets to me, I’m going to say yes. I’m grateful to fight a multiple-time world champion. I’ve fought at and around 168 pounds before, so I’m not worried about the weight. I just want to fight.

“It’s up to everyone else to decide what a win means for how I’m considered as a fighter. I’m just looking forward to getting in the ring, fighting and giving it my all.

“Anthony Dirrell is a two-time world champion and it’s going to be a tough test for me. I’m just looking to be my best and I believe that will be enough.”

REY VARGAS

“I’m very proud to be fighting on this card. I’m eager to show everyone what I can do after two years away. I’m ready for Saturday.

“If you think that I’m rusty, you could not be more wrong. I’m here to show that I can still bring the fight. I’m still very much a contender. We’ll see what happens on Saturday, but I’m confident in my skills.

“If the fight with Gary Russell Jr. is on the table, then I’ll be ready to take it and go after the featherweight title. Right now though, we’re just focused on Saturday and nothing past that.

“The layoff I’ve had has happened for a couple of different reasons. I had a situation with my former promoter, and once I had that settled, the pandemic happened. Then I had an injury, but all of that is in the past now. I’m ready for an amazing fight on Saturday.

“This is going to be an all-out war on Saturday. It’s going to be a brawl from start to finish.”

LEONARDO BÁEZ

“I’m here to make sure I make the most of this opportunity on the big stage. Canelo is the biggest draw in boxing and it’s an honor to be a part of this event. I’m going to do my best to come out with a win and give the fans the kind of fight they deserve.

“If a knockout presents itself, then I’m not going to shy away from it. But we had a great preparation and we’re ready to go the distance. Rey Vargas is a quality fighter who we’re ready for.

“We’re prepared for any way that Vargas wants to fight. We know what we’re up against, but I worked hard to make sure I give the fans a great fight.”

ELVIS RODRÍGUEZ

“It’s been a long road for me to get here. I’m thankful to everyone who’s helped me. I had to work hard and fix a lot of mistakes. I’m a much better fighter now and I’m confident I’m going to show it all off on Saturday.

“I want to show everyone that I’m the real deal. I’m a different fighter and a different person than I was in the past. I have to show everyone that I’m up to the challenge in this fight.

“In my last fight I committed a lot of mistakes. There were three main things that I’ve worked on. The first is throwing efficient combinations, then strengthening my defense, and third is being more agile in the ring. All of those things are going to make me better in this fight.

“If I beat Romero on Saturday, it’s going to be a new beginning for my career. I’ve worked hard to get here, but I want more and I believe it’s possible. I’m going to show everyone on Saturday how far I’ve come.”

JUAN PABLO ROMERO

“This is going to be a special weekend for all Mexicans. I’m thankful to be a part of this undercard and to Canelo for opening the door for us. There are a lot of great fighters up here and I’m excited to provide an exciting show for the fans and leave with a win.

“My goal here is to prove that the Mexican style of boxing is alive and well. I’m going to go in there, be aggressive and get the win no matter what.

“We don’t care how many people he’s knocked out, because we’re aggressive as well. We’re secure in knowing that if we do what we set out to do, we’re going to be okay in the end.”

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ABOUT CANELO VS. PLANT
Canelo vs. Plant will see boxing’s consensus No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, Mexican superstar and unified WBA/WBC/WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez face undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant in a historic showdown on Saturday, November 6, live on SHOWTIME PPV at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT featuring two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell squaring off against exciting contender “Madman” Marcos Hernández in the 10-round co-main event. Unbeaten former super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas returns to action against Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in a 10-round attraction on the pay-per-view, while lightweight contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero will duel in a 10-round showdown to kick off the action.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter with the hashtag #CaneloPlant, and @Canelo, @SweetHandsPlant, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @Canelo, @CalebPlant, @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

Two-Time Super Middleweight Champion Anthony Dirrell Battles Exciting Contender Marcos Hernández in Co-Main Event of Canelo vs. Plant SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, November 6 in a Premier Boxing Champions Event from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (October 18, 2021) – Three high-stakes matchups featuring former world champions, top contenders and rising future champions have been added to the highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV event headlined by Canelo Álvarez and Caleb “Sweethands” Plant battling for the undisputed super middleweight championship on Saturday, November 6 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell will square off against exciting contender “Madman” Marcos Hernández in the 10-round co-main event, while unbeaten former super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas returns to action against Mexico’s Leonardo Báez in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, super lightweight contenders Elvis Rodríguez and Juan Pablo Romero will duel in a 10-round showdown.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

Dirrell (33-2-2, 24 KOs), a two-time WBC 168-pound world champion, won the title for the first time with a unanimous decision over Sakio Bika in 2014. The native of Flint, Mich. dropped the title the next year to Badou Jack by majority decision, before putting together six straight victories to get back into position to fight for the championship again. He captured the title for a second time in 2019, winning a technical decision victory over Avni Yildirim. Most recently, Dirrell battled Kyrone Davis to a draw in February, in his first fight since a title fight defeat against David Benavidez in September 2019.

“I’m very ready for this fight,” said Dirrell. “I know Hernandez is a tough competitor and I’m sure he’ll have a lot of fans there since we’re fighting on the same card as Canelo. But I know I’m ready to fight on the big stage and on a card of this magnitude. I fought on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Shawn Porter undercard and I think this fight night is going to have a similar feel. I’m just prepared to do whatever I have to do to get the victory. The fans should expect fireworks. I’m not shying away from the action and hopefully I can get the winner of Canelo vs. Plant if I perform well on November 6.”

Fighting out of Fresno, Calif., Hernández (15-4-2, 3 KOs) has faced excellent competition in his career, battling a litany of tough fellow rising contenders. The 28-year-old most recently scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over previously unbeaten Armando Resendiz in September. In addition to his recent triumph, Hernández has twice faced former unified super welterweight champion Jeison Rosario, fighting to a draw in their first meeting before losing the rematch. He has also taken down then-unbeaten fighters in Kevin Newman II and Thomas Hill.

“I’m having a great training camp for this fight coming off of my performance in early September,” said Hernández. “As always, the fans can expect me to bring an entertaining fight. I know that I’m up against a former world champion who’s accomplished a lot in his career. I’m just focusing on working hard every day to get the victory and everything that will come with it.”

The former WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion, Vargas (34-0, 22 KOs) will return from layoff due to injury when he enters the ring on November 6. The 30-year-old went on the road to the U.K. to capture his title in 2017, winning a decision over previously unbeaten Gavin McDonnell. A native of Mexico City, Vargas made five successful defenses of his title, defeating top contenders including Oscar Negrete, Ronny Rios and Azat Hovhannisyan. His last fight and fifth successful title defense came via a unanimous decision over former world champion Tomoki Kameda in July 2019.

“I’m very happy for my return to the ring and my debut with PBC,” said Vargas. “You are going to see a renewed Rey Vargas on November 6. My opponent is a good fighter with speed who throws a lot of combinations. It will be a tough fight, but I know I have what it takes to win. I couldn’t be happier to be on the big stage on Canelo’s undercard. I know that I have to shine on fight night, take advantage of this showcase, and deliver a great fight for the fans.”

The Baja California, Mexico native Báez (21-4, 12 KOs) enters this fight the winner of his last three outings, all coming by TKO. The 26-year-old put together the winning streak after defeats to the previously unbeaten Carlos Caraballo and former title challenger Jason Moloney. Báez, who has fought professionally since 2013, will fight in the U.S. for the fourth time on November 6. Amongst his stateside outings, Báez dominated former interim champion Moises Flores on his way to earning a unanimous decision in February 2020.

“I’m excited for this great challenge on November 6,” said Báez. “I’m planning on giving the fans a true Mexican war and leaving it all in the ring to get the victory. It’s an honor to fight on the Canelo undercard and I’m going to make the most of it. This is going to be a toe-to-toe war, and I’m going to show that he’s not able to stand up to my power and aggression.”

Rodríguez (11-1-1, 10 KOs) burst onto the scene with knockout victories in 10 of his first 11 fights. He capped off a five-win 2020 campaign with a knockout of Cameron Krael in October and a decision victory against Luis Alberto Veron four months later. Fighting out of his native Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rodríguez most recently dropped a narrow majority decision against Kenneth Sims Jr. in May.

“I am very thankful to my team for getting me this tremendous opportunity opening up the pay-per-view for the biggest fight of the year,” said Rodríguez. “I have a tough opponent in front of me, but I’m in the best shape of my life. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m the real deal. My goal remains the same, and that’s to win a world title in 2022. First, I am just focused on November 6 and making sure I take advantage of the opportunity that a victory will produce on my road to the world title.”

Romero (14-0, 9 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after fighting for his native Mexico at the 2016 Olympic Games. The 31-year-old dispatched solid veterans Nestor Armas, Nestor Gonzalez and Ranses Payano in 2019, before earning a 10-round decision over Sergio Torres Alvarado in his only 2020 contest. Romero made it back-to-back 10-round unanimous decision triumphs in April of this year, as he won his U.S. debut by defeating Deiner Berrio. Throughout his extensive amateur career, Romero owns an impressive victory over unbeaten welterweight contender Gabriel Maestre.

“I’m very excited that my team was able to get me this great opportunity to fight on a Canelo show in Las Vegas,” said Romero. “I feel just as happy and excited to fight as I did for the Olympic games. I’m going to prove what I’m made of on November 6. No matter who my opponent is, I always train hard and prepare to do whatever I can to earn the victory.”

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Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy and Value.

Dirrell and Davis Fight to a draw

Former world champion Anthony Dirrell and Kyrone Davis fought to a 12-round draw in a super middleweight bout in Los Angeles.

Dirrell landed 161 of 435 punches; Davis was 139 of 521.

Both fighters took a card 115-113 and a third card was even at 114-114.

Dirrell, 167 1/2 lbs of Flint, MI is 33-2-2. Davis, 167 1/2 lbs of Wilmington, DE is 15-2-1.

“I thought I won the fight. I pushed the fight, hit him with cleaner punches,” Dirrell said. “He hit gloves a lot. I knew it was going to be a draw—as soon as they said it was going to be a split decision. I can’t control what the judges do and I respect them all because they have different perspectives and angles on what is happening.

“I was pressing the fight, I wasn’t tired at all. My jab was working. But I can’t stop what the judges think. Davis fought well. He did what he was supposed to, came in with a good game plan. He was boxing, he normally doesn’t do that. But we pressed the action.”

“I’m looking for a title. I’m not looking for just another fight. I’m looking for a big fight. That’s the plan,” Dirrell said. “I’ll take whoever has a belt, whoever we can get. I’ll take a Canelo, or a Caleb Plant.”

“I thought I won the fight, 116-112. It was a great opportunity. They doubted me. They told me he was going to knock me out. This was supposed to be a showcase for him but it wasn’t,” Davis said. “My body felt well. I felt good. Anthony Dirrell is a two-time world champion. I really wanted to make a statement. A draw is not as bad as a loss but I really don’t like breaking even.

“It was my first 12-rounder so it was a little unfamiliar for me. I knew he was experienced, but I kept my composure and pushed through it. I stuck to the game plan that (trainer) Stephen “Breadman” Edwards gave me.”

Ramos stops Bojorquez in 2

Jesus Ramos stopped Jesus Bojorquez in round two of a scheduled 10-round weltweight bout.

In round two, Ramos dropped Bojorquez with a hard left. Bojorquez was hurt and bleeding. He took more punishment and the fight was stopped at 1:44.

Ramos is now 15-0 with 14 knockouts. Bojorquez is 24-3.

“I was surprised he got up from that right hook. I was setting it up, throwing my jab to the body,” Ramos said. “I knew he was expecting another jab but I feinted and came back with the right hook. I didn’t think he would get up but he did and then I finished the job. This was a test run [at 147]. I felt really strong, the weight cut was a lot smoother this time around. I might campaign here. I have to talk to my team and see what they think.

“I want to be a champion at 21 years of age. That would be next year. I want to step up the competition this year, fight guys with names, and next year fight guys like Yordenis Ugas.”

Mielnicki stops Lopez in 3

Vito Mielnicki Jr. stopped Noe Alejandro Lopez in round three of a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

Mielnicki pounded away on Lopez until the bout was stopped at 2:50.

Mielnicki, 146 1/2 lbs of Roseland, NJ 8-0 with five knockouts. Lopez, 146 lbs of Houston is 10-4-1.

“I felt strong tonight. I don’t know how long I’ll be at 147, moving up may be in my future. For this fight, I give myself an ‘A.’ I got him out of there, a guy who said was a step-up, a guy who they said would carry me into the later rounds. But I expect nothing less of myself because I know I’m going to be great,’’ Mielnicki said.

“I’m just going to keep learning. I’m still young. I’m still 18 so we’re not in a rush. We’re going to keep building and see where that takes us. I’m 8-0 with 5 knockouts and I’m not injured or anything so I’m ready to get back in the ring as soon as possible.”

Michel Rivera stopped Anthony Mercado in the final round of their welterweight bout.

In round six, Mercado took a knee after absorbing some solid body shots. In round eight, Rivera sent Mercado down from a combination. Mercado looked exhausted upon reaching his feet, and the bout was stopped at 2:26.

Rivera, 144 1/2 lbs of Miami is 20-0 with 13 knockouts. Mercado, 146 lbs of Camuy, PR is 13-5.

Anthony Cuba and Diego Elizondo fought to a majority draw in a four round lightweight bout.

Cuba landed 41 of 196 punches; Elizondo was 47 of 216.

Cuba took a card 39-37 while two cards read even at 38-38.

Cuba, 134 1/2 lbs is 1-0-1. Elizondo, 135 lbs is 3-2-3.

ANTHONY DIRRELL VS. KYRONE DAVIS FINAL WEIGHTS

WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds
Anthony Dirrell – 167.4 lbs.
Kyrone Davis – 167.6 lbs.

Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Jesús Ramos – 146.8 lbs.
Jesús Emilio Bojórquez – 146.2 lbs.

Welterweight Bout – 8 Rounds
Vito Mielnicki Jr. – 146.4 lbs.
Nóe López – 146 lbs.

Super Lightweight Bout – 8/10 Rounds
Michel Rivera – 144.4 lbs.
Anthony Mercado – 146 lbs.

Lightweight Bout – 4 Rounds
Anthony Cuba – 134.2 lbs.
Diego Elizondo – 135 lbs.

Super Bantamweight Bout – 4/6 Rounds
Romuel Cruz – 122.4 lbs.
Luis Valdés – 122.4 lbs.

Lightweight Bout – 8 Rounds
José Valenzuela – 134.8 lbs.
Clay Burns – 134.8 lbs.

Super Welterweight Bout – 8 Rounds
Leon Lawson – 152.2 lbs.
Ramal Amanov – 153.8 lbs.

Super Featherweight Bout – 6 Rounds
Arnold Alejandro – 131.2 lbs.
Jeremy Abram – 129.4 lbs.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions.
# # #

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 and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

AUDIO: Anthony Dirrell vs Kyrone Davis Press Conference

VIDEO: Anthony Dirrell vs Kyrone Davis Press Conference

AUDIO: Interview with Anthony Dirrell

VIDEO: Interview with Anthony Dirrell

Undefeated Sensation Michel Rivera Takes On Anthony Raíces in FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims on FS1 & on FOX Deportes Saturday, February 27 from Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (February 24, 2021) – Highly touted undefeated prospect Michel Rivera takes another step toward world title contention as he faces Anthony Raíces in an 8/10-round super lightweight bout headlining FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims on FS1 and on FOX Deportes Saturday, February 27 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and includes Anthony Cuba versus Diego Elizondo in a four-round lightweight battle in the televised opener.

FOX PBC Fight Night Prelims on FS1 precedes the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by two-time Super Middleweight Champion Anthony Dirrell taking on Kyrone Davis in a WBC Super Middleweight World Title eliminator.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now living in Miami, the 22-year-old Rivera (19-0, 12 KOs) is widely considered one of the best prospects in boxing today. Rivera made his U.S. debut in June of 2019 by scoring a unanimous decision victory against then-unbeaten René Téllez Girón, who would go on to upset Karlos Balderas in his next fight. The explosive rising star followed that up by stopping José Luis Gallegos in September 2019 and scoring a vicious 10th-round TKO against Fidel Maldonado Jr. in February 2020. Last October, Rivera easily outpointed Ladarius Miller over 10 rounds in what was expected to be the toughest bout of his career.

Fighting out of his native Puerto Rico, the hard-hitting Raíces (13-4, 11 KOs) has been on a two-fight win streak since suffering a decision loss to Mykal Fox in May 2018. He won an eight-round decision over Víctor Vázquez in September 2018. Then in March 2019, Raíces scored a fifth-round TKO against Andrés Navarro in Philadelphia.

Cuba (1-0, 1 KO) is an 18-year-old prodigy who first turned heads as an amateur, winning two national championships. Fighting out of Fontana, California, Cuba enjoyed an impressive pro debut, scoring a third-round stoppage victory over Leon Cavalli in October 2020. He looks to continue his winning ways against Carson City, Nevada’s Elizondo (3-2-2) in their lightweight contest.

In off-TV undercard action, undefeated prospect José Valenzuela (6-0, 3 KOs) takes on veteran Clay Burns (9-10-2, 4 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout, unbeaten Leon Lawson (13-0, 6 KOs) faces Ramal Amanov (16-2, 5 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight match, Arnold Alejandero (11-1, 10 KOs) battles Jeremy Abram (3-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight bout and unbeaten Romuel Cruz (4-0, 2 KOs) meets Luis Valdés (7-6-1, 2 KOs) in a super bantamweight match.

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ANTHONY DIRRELL VS. KYRONE DAVIS MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL QUOTES

Los Angeles (February 19, 2021) – Two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell and Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis previewed their WBC Super Middleweight World title eliminator on a media conference call Wednesday before they headline FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes, Saturday, February 27 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The show features two of the most sensational teenage boxers in the sport as 19-year-old welterweight rising star Jesus Ramos battles Jesus Bojorquez in a 10-round co-feature and 18-year-old exciting prospect Vito Mielnicki, Jr. squares off against Noe Lopez in an eight-round welterweight match to open the broadcast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

Here is what the conference call participants had to say Wednesday:

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“Training camp has been going good. I’ve been in camp probably three months. I think this is the longest camp I’ve been in. Weight is not an issue, it’s coming down fairly easy. I’m just ready to go. I thought I was fighting earlier, it got postponed and I’m fine with that. The extra time has given me more time to practice my craft and showcase it on Saturday, February 27.

“I think Davis bit off more than he can chew. He’s good but I’m in a different bracket. There’s levels to this. I’m going to go in there and display my experience, what I can do and just get him out of there.

“I honestly thought I was winning the David Benavidez fight until I got cut. But that’s water under the bridge. The fight happened how it was supposed to happen. He’s a true champion. Unfortunately, I got cut and I couldn’t continue to fight. But they know it was a competitive fight until then, I was basically boxing him. You have to learn how to bounce back from your losses. Right now, I’m focused on Kyrone Davis because you can’t overlook anyone in boxing. I’ve been in camp too long and I’m missing my family. I want to get to see them quickly.

“I feel good at 36-years-old. I feel strong. I know everyone says this is one of my better camps but it has been. I feel we were able to do more to get ready. We had time to do a lot more to slowly build to where we want to be. I feel tremendous. I’m literally ready to fight right now. I’m knocking his a– out.”

KYRONE DAVIS

“I’m feeling confident. I’ve been training since August, just trying to stay active because of the pandemic. I’m just walking into my moment and my destiny.

“I’ve learned a lot under Stephen “Breadman” Edwards. He’s been a role model and a great teacher.

“I’ve been doing this for a long time. I’ve been boxing since I was eight-years old. I’ve had trials and tribulations, just working hard and staying focused no matter what happened in my life. I feel like this is my moment. I’ve always dreamed of this kind of opportunity. I’m confident and I believe I’m going to be victorious.

“This is an ultimate challenge. Dirrell is a two-time world champion, he has a lot of pedigree, a lot of experience. But every dog has its day and I plan on capturing my moment. I’m not worried about what he has done. What he has done makes this moment bigger and I’m just thankful for this opportunity.

“I can’t say the game plan but I’m bringing tenacity. It’s going to be a great fight. I think he’s going to bring it. I think he knows what this means. I feel my edge is youth and I feel I’m going to be the better man that night.

“I’m a lot bigger than people think that I am or expect me to be. I think people are going to be surprised when they see me in the ring, the way I look. My sparring partners are bigger but I always spar with bigger guys. I’m eating a little bit more and I feel comfortable. It’s a weight class jump but it’s nothing crazy. I feel like I’m going to be in good shape.

“David Benavidez is a good fighter and he was coming in against Dirrell with the momentum. I feel like Dirrell couldn’t handle what Benavidez was bringing to him. I think he fought well. I don’t know if the eye had something to do with it, I don’t know if he could see or what. I just think Benavidez looked like the hungrier fighter.

“Dirrell can say what he wants to say. A lot of people have a lot of feelings about this fight. I’m not getting wrapped up into what anybody says. We’ve got to fight.

“I’m absolutely motivated. This is something I’ve always dreamed of. The moment is bigger so I have to rise to the occasion. That makes good fighters great and that’s what I expect to do.

“Sometimes you look for the knockout and you don’t get it, sometimes you look for it and get caught. I don’t expect Dirrell to say anything less than wanting a knockout and look impressive. So do I. I’m going to adjust to what he’s doing, he’s going to try to adjust to what I’m doing and we’ll see how it goes. Whatever fight it’s going to be, I’m going to be ready for it.

“I have high aspirations. I want to be world champion. I’m just trying to walk into my own footsteps, I’m not worried about what anyone else is doing. I’m just trying to put respect on my name and I’m ready to prove that.

“I’m going to keep my eyes on him. We’re going to work, see what opens up and see what we can land. There are a lot of layers to this fight so we’ll see what happens. We’ve got a game plan. We’ll stay composed and do what we have to do. This is my defining moment. This is a big fight. I’m not taking anything for granted. A win will put me where I need to be.”

“This will definitely boost me. Dirrell has done some good things in the sport so a win over him, definitely puts me on people’s radar. People are writing me off. I win this fight, you’ve got to look at me different. I’m looking to seize this opportunity.

“I’m excited to try this new body out at a new weight and see what we can do. I could still make 160 but we’ll see what happens and what opportunities are there. I feel great right now. My energy level, my moves, just overall, it’s just a different feeling. Even though I’ve cut at 154 and 160, I had to make that weight. I’m still making 168 so I’m not as small as you think I am. I’m dedicated and I know how to manipulate my body to make it do what I need to do. But fighting at 168 is like a weight off my shoulders. I’m excited. I’m looking forward to February 27.

“Every fighter has their weaknesses. Without giving anything away, I’m just going to try and exploit them. I’m young, more talented than people probably give me credit for. We’re going to see.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Thank you for joining us on this call today. I said a few weeks ago on the Caleb Plant-Caleb Truax call that the 168-pound division is quickly becoming one of the hottest divisions in the sport. Boxing fans say that the older fighter should pass the torch to the younger fighter, the changing of the guard. Anthony Dirrell isn’t quite ready for that to happen yet. He’s had a tremendous camp and he feels great going into this fight. He holds the edge in terms of experience and quality of opposition. He’s already made his mark on the sport of boxing as a two-time champion.

“Davis, on the other hand, is the younger fighter. He was a decorated amateur standout, a 2012 Olympic alternate and he believes this is his time to shine. So I believe we have all the ingredients to just a terrific fight. I’m really looking forward to it.”

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Two-Time Champion Anthony Dirrell Takes On Kyrone Davis in WBC Super Middleweight World Title Eliminator On FOX PBC Fight Night live on Saturday, February 27 from Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (February 16, 2021) – Two-time super middleweight world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell takes on Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 12-round WBC Super Middleweight World Title eliminator to headline FOX PBC Fight Night live on Saturday, February 27 from the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

“Anthony Dirrell is a natural-born fighter. He’s had to overcome several obstacles in his life to become two-time super middleweight world champion. Each time he has had to come back, he’s done it and been stronger than before,’’ said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Kyrone Davis believes this is his moment to shine under the spotlight of FOX PBC Fight Night. What Dirrell and Davis bring to the ring on February 27 are the ingredients for a terrific fight. The added treat is watching the continued rise of a pair of brilliant young boxers – Jesus Ramos and Vito Mielnicki, Jr. – as they take on tough challenges.’’

Dirrell (33-2-1, 24 KOs), a two-time WBC 168-pound world champion, is a battle-tested veteran who never backs down from anyone in the ring. The 36-year-old Dirrell won the WBC title for the first time with a unanimous decision over Sakio Bika in 2014. The native of Flint, Michigan lost the title the next year to Badou Jack by majority decision. He put together six straight victories after that loss to get back into position to fight for the championship again. He won the title with a technical decision victory over Avni Yildirim in 2019. Dirrell is the younger brother of Andre Dirrell, who won a bronze medal as a member of the U.S. Olympic boxing team in 2004. He is coming off a hard-fought loss to former champion David Benavidez.

“I feel great, camp has been great and it feels good to get back in the ring with everything that’s been going on in the world,” said Dirrell. “Kyrone Davis has fought some good guys but with me being me, he’s biting off a little more than he chew. Fans can look forward to a knockout on February 27. I’m not playing, I’m going to make a statement.”

Davis (15-2, 6 KO) will face the toughest challenge of his career when he steps in against the more experienced Dirrell. The 26-year-old Davis from Monmouth, N.J. will be moving up to super middleweight for this match. His last fight was a TKO victory over Antonio Todd at middleweight in January 2020. His only two losses came against Junior Castillo and Patrick Day in 2018. His most notable victory so far came against Marcos Hernandez in 2017. Hernandez was undefeated at the time.

“I’ve worked extremely hard and I’m thankful for the opportunity and plan to take full advantage of it,’’ Davis said. “It’s my turn and you’re going to see that on FOX PBC on February 27.”

Ramos (14-0, 13 KOs), the nephew of welterweight contender Abel Ramos, steadily increased the toughness of competition in 2020. The 19-year-old from Casa Grande, Arizona has scored four-straight knockout wins following his only pro fight that has gone the distance, which came in a June 2019 unanimous decision over Kevin Shacks. In his last fight Ramos scored a fourth round stoppage against Naim Nelson in December 2020 on FOX.

“I’m very excited to be back in the ring on February 27, just two months after my last fight,” said Ramos. “I want to stay active this year, and I can’t wait to kick off 2021 with another solid performance.”

Bojorquez (24-2, 18 KOs) has scored four straight victories since losing to Abner Lopez. All four of those victories came by way of stoppage. The 33-year-old Bojorquez from Sonora, Mexico will be fighting for the first time in the United States. He’s coming off a fourth round TKO win over Jose Luis Araiza.

“I know Ramos is a tough young boxer and he’s been on a hot streak. But I’ve been on a hot streak too and my experience will be the deciding factor,’’ said Bojorquez. “I’m looking forward to going against him in an exciting fight on FOX PBC in prime time. I expect it will be a tough fight but I’m ready for anything that he can come with on February 27.’’

Representing Roseland, New Jersey, Mielnicki (7-0, 4 KOs) began turning heads during an exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Oustanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves amongst many accolades before turning pro. Last December, the 18-year-old welterweight dropped Steven Pulluaim twice on his way to a six-round unanimous decision.

“Camp is going great and I’m in the best shape of my life,” said Mielnicki. “I can’t wait to showcase my talent on FOX in my first eight-rounder.”

Veteran Lopez (10-3-1, 4 KOs) hails from the fighting town of Jalisco, Mexico and currently resides in Spring, Texas. He’s remained active during the pandemic, fighting three times in 2020, including two victories and a points loss to Joseph Francisco last November.

“I’m really excited about this fight,” said Lopez. “I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this and I’ve been training hard for months now. Mielnicki is a young, strong kid. I’m going to go out there, test him and shock the world.”

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The Truth is . . . Benavidez remained Saturday’s most intriguing talent

By Bart Barry-

Saturday at Staples Center welterweight titlist
Errol “The Truth” Spence split-decisioned “Showtime” Shawn Porter and unified
the WBC and IBF titles in an entertaining tilt that exceeded expectations by a
margin that was not small. In Saturday’s
comain former super middleweight titlist David “La Bandera Roja” Benavidez
sliced up WBC beltholder Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell, proving once more how
emphatically class tells over time.

If Benavidez indeed proved the most intriguing
talent on the card, Spence-Porter nevertheless exceeded expectations at least wildly
and maybe more than that.

Here’s the main criterion for such an assertion:
When the mainevent began my eyes were fixed on the favorite, but by round 3 my
eyes were fixed on the underdog, on whom they stayed for most of the next 27
minutes of combat. That is attributable
almost wholly to Porter’s professionalism and savvy but partially, too, to what
matchmaking woes rendered Spence so vulnerable to a fellow welterweight who
knew how to fight.

For large parts of many rounds Spence didn’t have
much of an idea what the hell Porter would do next and was offended by such
unpredictability. Most of Spence’s recent
foes were predictable or if not predictable so impotent their capricious attacks
meant nil to the champ. Not Porter. Showtime Shawn was big enough and committed
enough and schooled enough – in the crucible of meaningful competition – to
discomfit The Truth quite a lot.

Spence did every technical thing better than
Porter and probably hit harder, too, but he did not set the conditions of the
confrontation the way weak opposition recently accustomed him to doing. Frankly Porter walked through nearly all
Spence’s best shots and was flashed to the canvas by a fully leveraged Spence left
in round 11 but never imperiled.

Spence did not look invincible Saturday. Most of us predicted a lopsided, dull affair,
and most of us were wrong. No, Spence is
not great as we thought; yes, Porter is better than we thought. A blessing upon both men for being
professional enough to show us these things.

The comain went about as planned, with a result
most predicted, but showed David Benavidez, however-youngest and
however-many-timesest champion, remains a work in progress.

Before I go further, let me confess Benavidez
enchants me like no other prizefighter currently. He doesn’t know how good he is or how bad he
is. He’s cocksure more than confident;
he’s pretty sure, where men like Hi-Tech and Bud and Canelo are certain. Sometimes his smile is not congruent to his
mood. From his physique to his chief
second’s urban-combat-outfitters attire, everything about Benavidez is
fragile. To watch him closely is to know
the entire Benavidez train could derail at any moment (it may have derailed
even as you read this, or just before, or just after, or just now) with a drug
test or arrest or worse.

But damn, is he fun to watch. Such nonchalance, such patience, such willingness. He didn’t do things all that technically well
against Dirrell, Saturday, in part because he never thought he needed to. He saw Dirrell as a chatty victim from the
bell’s first tone. He liked the idea of
Dirrell’s courage and loved giving Dirrell a chance to exhibit it: Go on and
show us how brave you are, Dog, while I go smirky sadist on your right eye.

Benavidez is a natural because you cannot teach
his level of relaxation in a prizefight.
If you doubt this, go back and watch videos of Oscar De La Hoya’s
greatest hits. Few fighters of the last
generation had De La Hoya’s natural gifts, but the dude never learned to
relax. There he is, even in his very
best moments, jaw bulging like a cheeky walnut.
Which is why the worst moments of De La Hoya’s prime were marked by late-rounds
fading.

Which is also why Benavidez, a guy with all the
upperbody musculature of a prepubescent gamer, doesn’t get tired of punching his
statuesque opponents till well after they tire of punching him.

Then there’s Sampson Lewkowicz – whose presence in
the Benavidez stable is the main thing allowing a weathered, withered observer
like me to dare stake his afición on a project with future heartbreak’s every
hallmark. Lewkowicz has had his misses,
sure, but he’s also had Manny Pacquiao and Sergio Martinez when no one else
wanted them. Benavidez already has tried
to break Lewkowicz’s heart a twopair or better, but Lewkowicz was there in Saturday’s
ring, one of few Red Flaggers without a vest on, and it made you hope reason
might continue to prevail upon Benavidez.

Capitalistic sensibilities, on the other hand,
will continue to prevail upon Errol Spence.
Saturday’s postfight weirdness proves it. Danny Garcia – seriously? A year removed from his loss to Shawn Porter
(yes, that Shawn Porter) Swift came down from grooming One Time to challenge The
Truth before our disbelieving eyes.
Whose idea was this? is Spence that covetous of Garcia’s WBC silver
title?

Spence is an excellent prizefighter who wants to
prove it. PBC ought to let him.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter @bartbarry

FOLLOW SPENCE – PORTER LIVE!!

Errol Spence Jr. meets Shawn Porter in a Welterweight Unification Title bout. There will be two world title bouts that highlight the undercard. Anthony Dirrell defends the Super Middleweight Title against former champion David Benavidez. Mario Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov meet for the WBA Super Lightweight Title. Josesito Lopez takes on John Molina Jr.

THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY. NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED

12-ROUNDS–IBF/WBC WELTERWEIGHT TITLE–ERROL SPENCE JR. (25-0, 23 KOS) VS SHAWN PORTER (30-3-1, 17 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
SPENCE*	10	9	10	9	10	10	9	10	9	10	10	9	115
PORTER	9	10	9	10	9	9	10	9	10	9	8	10	112

Round 1: Porter trying to work on the inside..Left from Porter..Left from Spence..Combination..

Round 2 Good right from Porter…Counter from Spence…Right from Porter..Right..Left from Spence..

Round 3 Left to body from Spence…Jab..Good right from Porter..Left from Spence..Spence warned for low blow…left from Spence

Round 4 2 hard rights from Porter..Good body shot from Spence..Good left..2 lefts from Porter..Bog left…Porter being aggressive..Left hook..Combination..Left from Spence..

Round 5 Counter left from Spence..Counter from Porter..Good left from Spence..Counter..Counter from Porter..Left from Spence..Left..

Round 6 Spence landing hard shots on the ropes..Nice right from Porter..

Round 7 Porter lands a jab..Right..Left to the body..Good left to body from Spence..left uppercut to body..Body shot and combination from Porter..Hard right to the body

Round 8 Good left from Spence..Nice right from Porter…Counter left and right from Spence..

Round 9 Hard uppercut from Porter…Hard right inside…

Round 10 Good body shot from Spence..Hard flurry on the ropes..Good action on the ropes..Spence cut on right eyebrow from accidental Headbutt

Round 11 Good right hook from Spence…LEFT AND DOWN GOES PORTER..Toe to Toe action…Good right from Porter

Round 12 Right from Porter..Left hook from Porter..Big right from Porter..Good right…Both guys standing and throwing in the middle of the ring

221-172 Punches in favor of Spence

116-111 Spence…115-112 Porter….116-111 Spence

12-ROUNDS–WBC SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE–ANTHONY DIRRELL (33-1-1, 24 KOS) VS DAVID BENAVIDEZ (21-0, 18 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
DIRRELL	10	9	9	10	9	10	9	9					75
BENAVIDEZ*	10	10	10	9	10	9	10	10	TKO				77

Round 1 Right from Benavidez..Right to body from Dirrell

Round 2 Right to body from Dirrell..Right from Benavidez..Straight right from Dirrell..Right…Jab from Benavidez..3 punch combination

Round 3 Counter right from Benavidez…Body/Head combination..Right on the ropes..Hard left

Round 4 Right from Dirrell..Hard combination on the ropes

Round 5 Benavidez lands a 5 punch combination..

Round 6 Body shot from Dirrell..Dirrell cut around his right eye…CUT FROM A PUNCH

Round 7 Doctor looking at the cut…Right from Benavidez..

Round 8 Body shot from Benavidez…2 lefts..left to body..2 hard head shots

Round 9 Jab from Benavidez..4 punch combination…Body shot..Benavidez battering DIRRELL AND THE FIGHT IS STOPPED

12-ROUNDS–WBA SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE–MARIO BARRIOS (24-0, 16 KOS) VS BATYR AKHMEDOV (7-0, 6 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
BARRIOS	10	10	10	10	9	10	9	10	9	9	9	10	115
AKHMEDOV	10	9	9	8	10	9	10	9	10	10	10	8	112

Round 1:Right from Akhmedov..Left uppercut from Barios..

Round 2 Right from Barrios…Left to body from Akhmedov..

Round 3 Right hook from Akhmedov..2 rights from Barrios..Body

Round 4 Barrios lands a straight right…DOUBLE HOOK AND DOWN GOES AKHMEDOV…Right from Barrios..Left from Akhmedov

Round 5 Right from Barrios…Left from Akhmedov..And another

Round 6 Body shot from Akhmedov..Counter right from Barrios..Left

Round 7 Left from Akhmedov..Right to body…Jab…Barrios cut over the left eye

Round 8 Right hook from Akhmedov…Jab from, Barrios..Jab to the body..Jab.Counter right

Round 9 Akhmedov comes forward…Left..Good right from Barrios..

Round 10 Counter left and combination from Akhmedov…left..Good Jab..God straight left..Big left drives Barrios back

Round 11 Double left from Akhmedov…left…Akhmedov pressuring..Another left..

Round 12 INSIDE RIGHT..DOWN GOES AKHMEDOV

114-112, 115-111, 116-111 FOR BARRIOS

10-Rounds–Welterweights–Josesito Lopez (36-8, 19 KOs) vs John Molina Jr. (30-8, 24 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Lopez*	10	10	10	10	9	10	10	TKO					69
Molina	7	9	9	9	10	9	8						61

Round 1 LOPEZ LANDS A RIGHT AND DOWN GOES MOLINA…Right fr4om Molina..Overhand right staggers Molina….BODY SHOT AND DOWN GOES MOLINA..Big right

Round 2 Lopez lands a flush right..2 Rights…Left from Molina..Big right from Lopez..

Round 3 Right from Lopez..

Round 4 Left from Lopez..Hard jab..

Round 5 Right from Molina.Right hand…Right Hand/Left Hook..Right..

Round 6 Hard shots by both guys…Good right from Lopez..

Round 7 Left from Molina..Right from Lopez..DOUBLE LEFT AND RIGHT AND DOWN GOES MOLINA..

Round 8 Big right from Lopez…REFEREE STOPS THE BOUT

10-Rounds–Welterweights–Robert Guerrero (35-6-1, 20 KOs) vs Jerry Thomas (14-1-1, 8 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Guerrero	10	10	10	9	10	10	10	10	9				88
Thomas	9	9	9	10	9	9	9	9	10				84

Round 1 Guerrero working

Round 4 combination from Thomas Jab from Guerrero

Round 5 Jab from Guerrero body combination left to the body uppercut

Round 6 Guerrero lands a left

Round 7 Body work from Guerrero..Straight left..Guerrero outlanding Thomas 74-29

Round 8 Combination from Guerrero…1-2..Straight left..Inside left

Round 9 Thomas pushing the action..Has Guerrero on the ropes

Round 10 Inside right hook from Guerrero..3 Punch combination…Lett from Guerrero

4-Rounds–Super Welterweights–Joey Spencer (8-0, 6 KOs) vs Travis Gambardella (5-0-2, 2 KOs
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Spencer*	10	10	TKO										20
Gamberdella	7	8											15

Round 1 Spencer lands a left hook..BIG RIGHT DOWN GOES GANBERDELLA…BODY SHOT AND DOWN GOES GAMBERDELLA AGAIN

Round 2 HUGE COMBINATION..LEFT TO BODY AND DOWN GOES GAMBERDELLA..Big live shot…Huge Barrage from Spencer.

Round 3 BIG BARRAGE OF PUNCHES AND THE FIGHT IS STOPPED

Spence decisions Porter to unify Welterweight title

Errol Spence Jr. and Shawn Porter thrilled the crowd at Staples Center in Los Angeles in a unification bout that saw Spence walk away with both the IBF/WBC Welterweight titles via thrilling split decision in a terrific action contest.

The fight did not lack action as Porter pushed the fight, but that left him open for some great body work from Spence. Porter was able to get inside and throw and occasionally land some hard overhand rights that would land flush on the side of the head of Spence. Spence’s work was made up mostly of solid counters and good work along the ropes.

The two took turns being the boss and taking rounds. The fight seemed to be sealed in round 11 when Spence landed a short left hand that sent Porter to a knee. The two pleased the crowd one more time as the fought at a furious pace for the last three minutes of the bout.

Spence, 147 of Dallas, TX took two cards 116-111 while Porter won on a card by a 115-112 tally.

Spence is 26-0. Porter, 147 lbs of Akron, OH is 30-3-1.

“It feels good to win,” said Spence. “This is a lifetime dream. It shows hard work pays off. Thanks Shawn Porter, my whole team and all my Texas people for coming out.”

“Shawn Porter is a rough and awkward fighter,” said Spence. “I didn’t get off what I wanted to. He’s a true champion. He made it tough.”

“He’s a strong kid,” said Porter. “We both came in to do the job. I think I had a little more than what he expected, but he handled it. Congratulations to him and his team. We’re proud of what we did.”

“I think that knockdown was the difference,” said Porter. “I couldn’t come back to the corner with my head down after that.”

“All my punches have bad intentions,” said Spence. “By boxing Mikey Garcia, I wanted to show people I could do it with that style. Porter was throwing a lot. I wanted to show I was the bigger and stronger welterweight.”

It looks like Spence will now defend against Danny Garcia.

“It was a top dog fight tonight,” said Garcia. “I want you next Errol. It was a tough rugged fight. Shawn Porter is a tough fighter. I’m here to say I want next.” “My how the tables have turned,” said Spence. “I’ve told my team, you line them up, I’ll knock them down.”

David Benavidez regained the WBC Super Middleweight title with a 9th round stoppage over Anthony Dirrell.

In round six, Dirrell was cut over the right eyelid from a straight right hand from Benavidez.

The opened up the floodgates for Benavidez as he started to slowly breakdown and eventually batter Dirrell in the 9th frame until the bout was stopped at 1:39.

Benavidez, 167.6 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 22-0 with 19 knockouts. Dirrell, 167.6 of Flint, MI is 33-2-1.

“Everything just fell in place perfectly,” said Benavidez. “From the suspension to all the big fights I’ve been in. All of that helped me out in this fight. I did not make a mistake or open myself up more than I needed to. I worked behind my jab and got the stoppage. Things are going to get better and get tougher and I’m ready for the challenge.”

“He hit me with a clean shot,” said Dirrell. “That’s my first time ever being cut by a punch. It opened up. There was nothing I could do about it. I couldn’t see the whole fight after that. My corner did a good job on it, but I really couldn’t see.”

“There are so many emotions coming at me at once,” said Benavidez. “We put so much hard work into this training camp. We left home and were away from everything. But I had the dream to become the youngest two-time super middleweight world champion and I made my dreams come true.”

“I would have kept going in there,” said Dirrell. “I’m not quitting against anybody. Everyone saw I didn’t go down. My legs were still strong, but I couldn’t do anything about it. “We’re going back to the drawing board. I’m still fighting. We won’t end on a loss. You can put anybody in there with me.”

Mario Barrios captured the WBA Super Lightweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Batyr Akhmedov.

In round four, Barrios dropped Akhmedov with a double left that was followed by a right. Akhmedov made a hard charge over the next several rounds, and wound up outlanding Barrios by over 100 punches.

Barrios sealed the fight with a hard right hand in round 12 that sent Akhmedov to the canvas.

Barrios, 140 lbs of San Antonio, TX won by scores of 116-111, 115-111 and 114-112 to go to 25-0. Akhmedov of Uzbekistan is 7-1.

“I knew this was going to be a war,” said Barrios. “He was getting dirty in there but the Mexican warrior in me was not going to let this opportunity pass me by. I dug deep and got the victory.”

“The plan was to gradually grow the activity,” said Akhmedov. “I knew that I had to win by a wide margin. After the first knockdown, I knew that I had to add activity more quickly than I had planned. So I started being more aggressive. I did everything I could to try to stop him.”

“I promised my city of San Antonio that I would bring this title back home and I did it,” said Barrios. “The judges see better than I can from the ring,” said Akhmedov. “I did everything I could. I thought I won the fight. They decided that he won the fight. When I watch the fight I’ll be able to tell you what it looked like. My job is to do everything to win. The judges are supposed to judge correctly. “I tried to do everything I could. I was told that I wouldn’t be able to handle his experience, but he was on the ropes most of the fight. I beat him up and I thought I won the fight.”

Josesito Lopez stopped John Molina Jr. in round eight of a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout,

In round one, Lopez dropped Molina twice. 1st with a right and then seconds later with a body shot. Lopez won most of the rounds, but Molina was dangerous at times as he landed hard rights from time to time.

In round seven, Lopez landed a double left that was followed by a right that sent Molina down for a 3rd time. In the eighth, Lopez landed a couple more hard shots, and the bout was stopped.

Lopez, 146.6 lbs of Riverside, CA is now 37-8 with 20 knockouts. Molina, 146.2 lbs of Covina, CA 30-9.

“We both carry power in our hands so it wasn’t a surprise someone went down,” said Lopez. “It easily could have happened to me with the power he has. I was able to catch him early, find openings and get the finish.”

“You can never take the fight out of a fighter,” said Molina. “I have a never say die attitude and I have my whole career. It was a tough fight, but the better man won tonight.”

“I knew he wasn’t going to quit,” said Lopez. “He’s a warrior. I had to keep on the pressure. I was thinking that hopefully the ref and the team made the right call to finish it at the right time.”

“I wanted to keep going at the end,” said Molina. “I thought I was still coherent and could still move well. But you can’t go against what the referees say.”

“There’s a lot more ‘Riverside Rocky’ left,” said Lopez. “Robert Garcia has turned my career around. I’m a race car and like NASCAR, I’ve got a whole team behind me. I’m a top 10-level fighter. I’m going to give any fighter and any world champion a run for their money. I want memorable fights and I want the best.”

Former world champion Robert Guerrero won a lackluster 10-round unanimous decision over Jerry Thomas in a welterweight bout.

Guerrero146.8 lbs of Gilroy, CA is now 36-6-1. Thomas, 146.6 lbs of St. Marys, KS is 14-2-1.

“I want to get back into those bigger fights,” said Guerrero. “I moved around and stayed smart in there tonight. The goal was to stick to the game plan and I did until the end of the fight, but then I got right back on it. You just have to keep working out the kinks and that’s what I’m going to keep doing.”

Joey Spencer remained undefeated by stopping Travis Gamberdella in round three of their welterweight bout.

In round one, Spencer was dominant, and dropped Gambderlla twice. In round two, Spencer came out like gangbusters and dropped Gamberdella with a big left to the body.

In round three, Spencer landed a huge combination, and the bout was stopped at 53 seconds.

Spencer, 155.8 lbs of Linden, MI is now 9-0 with seven knockouts. Gamberdella, 155 lbs of Revere, MA is 5-1-2.

“The body shots weren’t really the plan going in,” said Spencer. “I started off with head shots and he was taking those well. I put one downstairs and I instantly saw it affect him badly. I knew it was a wrap. I was going to keep going to the body.”

“I thought the referee was going to stop it in the second round,” said Spencer. “When he let him go I took a deep breath and made sure not to punch myself out. I stuck to my jab and let the rest take care of itself.”

“I’m so happy with the improvements that I was able to show tonight on the big stage,” said Spencer. “I’m really excited for what’s to come.”

Fabian Maidana dismantled Ramses Agaton with a 1st round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

Maidana floored Agaton in the opening seconds with a hard right hand. Maidana sent Agaton down again the opening frame with a body shot. Maidana finished the deal with another body shot that put Agaton down, and the fight was stopped at

Maidana, 146 lbs of Margarita, ARG is 17-1 with 13 knockouts. Agaton, 147 lbs of Mexico is 21-11-3

Leon Lawson III stopped Alan Zavala in round three of a scheduled eight-round super welterweigt bout.

Lawson dropped Zavala hard with a right hand in the corner, and Zavala stayed on the seat of his pants for the 10-count at 2:27.

Lawson, 157.4 lbs of Flint, MI is 12-0 with five knockouts. Zavala, 157 lbs of Tijuana, MX is 15-7.

Alfonso Olvera scored an upset by winning a eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Amon Rashidi in a welterweight bout.

Olvera, 147 lbs of Nogales, MX won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74, and is now 14-6-3. Rashidi, 146.3 lbs of Dallas, TX is 7-1.

In a battle of Dallas based featherweights, Juan Antonio Lopez decisioned Fernando Garcia.

Lopez is 15-7. Garcia is 12-2.

ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. SHAWN PORTER & ANTHONY DIRRELL VS. DAVID BENAVIDEZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (September 25, 2019) – IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter had an intense faceoff at Wednesday’s final press conference before they headline a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, September 28 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The press conference also featured WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell and former world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez exchanging words before they clash in the co-main event of pay-per-view action that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wilshire Grand Ballroom II at the Intercontinental Hotel:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“I feel like all of my fights prepared me for this moment. Porter is not like Mikey Garcia. They have different styles and different mentalities. But there are a lot of distractions fighting at home and I feel like I overcame that to lead me to this point.

“I don’t make anything of the words he’s saying. We train hard and we’re focused and prepared for anything he brings Saturday night.

He’s been talking a lot, his dad’s been talking a lot and I’m going to shut him up. They’re going to call me the “show stopper’ after Saturday night.

“I’ve prepared for everything. It’s all about adjustments. I make them fast in the ring. People thought Kell Brook’s experience would help him but it didn’t at all. I can adjust to my opponent’s style and we will show it Saturday.

“I’m ready to go. I never missed weight and I’m always professional. It’s just hard work and dedication. I’m going to be even more ripped and ready than I was against Mikey Garcia.

“This is going to be an amazing event come Saturday night. I will be the unified champion of the world. Shawn comes to fight and I embrace that. I can’t wait because I promise this is going to be one for the history books.

“I just have to do what I’ve been doing. I don’t care about the rounds as long as it doesn’t go 12.
I’m going to win and do it in dominating fashion.

“It’s important to me to get the knockout. It’s a goal of mine to stop him and I hope to get it done. If can’t get it done, then I’m just going to be comfortable with the victory. But you know I’m looking for the stoppage.”

SHAWN PORTER

“It’s the competitor in me to get at him any way I can. Until that bell rings, we’ll do whatever we need to do to let him know we’re really here to fight him.

“When you’re in there with a top level opponent, it’s supposed to be a close action packed fight. I have everything it takes to make each fight exciting when I step into the ring.

“Everyone has seen everything what I’ve done in my career. Everyone knows I can take a punch and I’ll be there from the first round to the last round. We’ll see what happens to Errol as the fight goes on.

“This is the best camp I’ve ever had. The nutrition and everything has been spot on. I’m ahead of schedule and that’s where I plan to stay. I expect to be eating Friday morning.

“I’m aggressive and I’m strong and guys can’t handle it. There are things that happen in the ring and you just have to move with it. I’m always ready to do whatever it takes to get the job done.

“I expected it to get heated today. I know that if I fire at Errol, he’s going to fire back. That’s how the fights going to be as well. Everyone got a good taste of what you’ll see Saturday.

“Being in the underdog position is literally where I come from. Northeast Ohio is always an underdog. Everybody works where I come from. We always do the best we can.

“The resume is for everyone else to compare and contrast. For me, it’s all about who’s in front of me. I believe I have the right recipe to be the person to get the job done Saturday. I have the style to challenge him physically and mentally.

“We didn’t change too much of our program heading into this fight. For the second time we went down to Washington, D.C. for part of our camp.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“The underdog or the favorite I’m always going to ”The Dog’ no matter what. People can have their opinion on the odds, but it doesn’t play into my mentality at all for this fight.

“This is a fight that could very well steal the show on this pay-per-view. It’s an honor to be in this position. It’s a dream to be on a card like this defending my title.

“I have to see how it plays out, but age is just a number. You see Manny Pacquiao and fighters like that who went out and beat younger opponents. You have to be determined and still focused on the game.

“Experience is definitely a big key in this fight. I think that he has holes in his game and I’m going to expose it on Saturday night.

“The cut from my last fight won’t be an issue for this one. That fight was over six months ago, so if it’s going to heal, it should be healed. It doesn’t affect anything I’m doing in the ring.

“My training camp in Las Vegas was spectacular. It’s all about taking yourself out of your comfort zone and push yourself to the max to be successful at this elite level.

“I don’t think this fight is going the distance and I know I’m having my hand raised at the end. He got dropped with a jab and I hit harder than Ronald Gavril.”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m very motivated for this fight. I feel like I have another opportunity to not just get a title, but take it from a champion. I’ve worked very hard for this fight. Dirrell has never been knocked out and I’m taking the challenge to be the man who does it.

“This is the perfect time for this fight. I’m getting stronger every day. Dirrell feels like he has a lot to prove to the fans. So it’s going to be a war as long as it lasts.

This is going to be an amazing card. It’s a stacked card from beginning to end. I want to make a statement and steal the show.

“Dirrell is a great fighter and we’re both ready for what we’re going to do. There’s a respect between us, but I’m going for the knockout. If I don’t, he’s going to get a beating.

“I’m definitely going to make this weight class my home. I have no problem at all making weight. There’s a lot of great fights to be made at super middleweight and we’re going to stay here as long as we can get those fights done.

“As of right now, all of my attention is on Anthony Dirrell. We give him the respect he deserves because he’s a champion at the end of the day. It’s going to take my best to beat him and we’re looking forward to doing it.

“Dirrell has experience, plus some speed and power. He can change from orthodox to southpaw and has a lot of tricks in his book. He’s been in there with some good fighters. But what motivates me the most is that he’s never really been hurt and I want to be the first. I know when I put my hands on somebody, I can hurt them.”

#

ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand 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.

SHAWN PORTER, ANTHONY DIRRELL & ROBERT GUERRERO LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (September 18, 2019) – WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter, WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell and former three-time world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero hosted a media workout in Las Vegas Wednesday as they near their respective showdowns taking place Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Porter will headline the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View in a highly anticipated welterweight title unification against Errol Spence Jr., while Dirrell defends his belt against unbeaten David Benavidez in the pay-per-view co-main event as part of action beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Guerrero will take on Jerry Thomas in a welterweight attraction that highlights FS1 PBC Fight Night Prelims preceding the pay-per-view and beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the September 28th event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Barry’s Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

SHAWN PORTER

“Shawn Porter is going to leave the ring with two belts. I’m going to hit him. I’m going to hit him hard and I’m going to do things you’ve never seen anyone do against Errol Spence.

“I’m expecting there to be adversity for Errol. There’s going to be a moment where he realizes he’s losing this fight. He has to be solid psychologically. I don’t know if he’s going to be in the ring. I believe I have the advantage there and that I know how to get into his head.

“I think Errol’s confidence is natural like mine. But I think that he’s fed his confidence to the point where some arrogance has come out. I think he’s going to show that in the fight early on. He’s going to have to adjust. Once he recognizes that, I expect the arrogance to go out the window and that he’ll have to figure it out.

“I’ve never seen Errol go through any adversity in the ring. I don’t think anyone has been able to challenge him the way I can challenge him. I’m really looking forward to it.

“There’s a combination that comes from Shawn Porter that you can’t get anywhere else. It’s the speed, power, agility and intelligence. You have to make a lot of adjustments on the fly and be ready. I’m hard to prepare for. Spence probably has one or two things that he’s expecting, but it’s not going to go that way.

“I’ve been in Errol’s position before and I know what it’s like to think that all I had to do was show up and be me. I’ve gotten to a point where I realize now that I have to do more.

“I don’t think there’s too much to figure out with Errol. The game plan is to make him make the adjustments. Things don’t always go to plan, but I still think I know what he wants to do in there. He’s not going to give you a lot to adjust to, but what he does do, he’s supreme and he’s great at.

“Southpaws always bring the best out of me. I’m young again. You’re going to see the best Shawn Porter.

“I think Errol has a lot more to lose in this fight. He’s never had to deal with a loss, and most people aren’t expecting him to lose. He’s in the perfect position being considered a top welterweight. But from my perspective, I just have absolutely no intention on losing.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“This is going to be a good fight. David Benavidez is a warrior and I don’t take anything away from him. But I know that I have all the tools to beat him. He’s never fought someone like me. Everyone he knocked out, he was supposed to knock out.

“I have everything I need in my arsenal. I’m versatile. I can switch it up if I need to. If I need to sit in the pocket, I can. If I need to box, I can. I just don’t think Benavidez is what everyone makes him out to be.

“I’m going for the knockout. I go for the knockout in every fight. If it doesn’t happen, I can still go 12 rounds and come out victorious.

“This win would build my legacy. Some people expect me to lose, and I’m happy about that. This just takes my career to another level.

“I’m not looking past this fight. I’m focused on David Benavidez. After this fight I can talk about unification or whatever. Put first I have to take care of David.

“A loss is a loss no matter which way you put it. Whether you lose by a mile or half a round. That’s in the past and we’re only focused on the future. There’s an undefeated 22-year-old fighter trying to take what I’ve got.

“You put all the work in when you’re in the gym, then you have to leave everything in the ring. We trained too hard to not do that. I’m very confident. At the end of the day, the fans are going to win.

“I’ve seen Benavidez fight before. My coaches have watched him closely and will come up with the game plan. He’s quick, but we’ll be ready.”

ROBERT GUERRERO

“I feel great right now. Everything has been going smoothly and I can’t wait to just go to work out there. All the hard stuff is done, now it’s just maintaining and staying ready.

“I’m excited for this opportunity. I’m well prepared and ready to go. It’s like any other fight. You leave no stone unturned, execute your game plan and do what you have to do to win.

“The fans are going to get what they always get from me. I’m going to come to fight, take care of business and leave everyone with something to remember.

“In a lot of my fights, I just walked guys down. I’ve had guys like Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia fighting just to hang in there, and I wasn’t even fighting to my full potential. I was just walking them down. But my skills are boxing, that’s how I fought at the lighter weights. I got away from what I was good at.”

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ANTHONY DIRRELL VS. DAVID BENAVIDEZ, PLUS MARIO BARRIOS CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

Ray Flores
Thank you very much operator and to the media joining us around the world as we are very excited because we are just under two weeks away until we have our mega event with Errol Spence Jr going head to head against Shawn Porter. Welterweight unification is on the line. That all comes your way on Saturday September 28. It is a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. What a main event but we have a sensational co-main event and a loaded undercard beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Today we’re going to be joined by fighters that are going to be involved in the co-main event which will see the WBC Super Middleweight Champion of the world, Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell taking on the former unbeaten World Champion David” El Bandera Roja” Benavidez. Also, in action and will be participating in today’s call, unbeaten rising sensation Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will collide against fellow unbeaten Batyr Akhmedov for the WBA Super Lightweight Championship. Tickets are going quickly. They are still available and it’s being promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions, Shawn Porter Promotions. They’re available at AXS.com.

Before we get an opportunity to hear from the fighters, let’s talk to one of the hardest working men in entertainment. He’s the President of TGB Promotions. TGB has had another tremendous year promoting events all over the world. Please welcome my dear friend, a man who knows boxing probably more than anybody, Mr. Tom Brown.

Tom Brown
That’s why I love Ray. Thanks everyone for joining us for this conference call today for what I believe will be an extremely exciting night of boxing all presented by Premier Boxing Champions on pay-per-view. it’s a big fight when you have it at the STAPLES Center, the home of big-time boxing. We have a spectacular undercard and it’s going to be non-stop action and a lot of excitement leading up to the highly anticipated Welterweight Unification plus the undercard with veterans like Josesito Lopez and John Molina.

Also on the pay-per-view portion of the show is unbeaten Mario Barrios taking on the unbeaten Batyr Akhmedov for the WBA Super Lightweight Title. And WBC Champion Anthony Dirrell against the unbeaten former champion, David Benavidez. Any one of these fights could easily steal the show so it’s going to be a great night. I’ll throw it back to Ray and thank you again.

R. Flores
Thank you very much to Mr. Tom Brown. Always working hard but we greatly appreciate his time. He’s very excited as is the rest of the world. Now with today being Mexican Independence Day I think it’s only fitting enough that we have one of the biggest Mexican stars in the sport here to kick off today’s call. David Benavidez has been quite active. He was on hand at yesterday’s huge festival here in Los Angeles celebrating the holiday and was a tremendous hit with the crowd — greeting fans, signing autographs, taking photos. He is just 22 years of age. Former Super Middleweight World Champion trained by his father, Jose Benavidez. They have tremendous chemistry with one another. Certainly a winning formula.

Talking about that winning formula, he was the youngest Super Middleweight World Champion in history when he won the championship in 2017 by defeating Ronald Gavril, most recently having coming off of a very impressive second round stoppage over J’Leon Love. That was a fight that co-main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View back in March. He’s undefeated 21 and 0, 18 wins coming by way of knockout. Originally from Phoenix Arizona, now training in Southern California. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome one of the fastest rising stars in boxing today. Here is David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez. David?

David Benavidez
What’s up guys? How are you doing? First of all, I want to say a Happy Mexican Independence Day. I was happy to see a lot of people celebrating Mexican Independence Day. The fight is less than two weeks away. Probably the biggest fight of my life and I’m just very excited to be here in this position.

Q
What about you has changed between now and a year ago?

D. Benavidez
What’s changed is that I’m getting older, I’m more mature. I feel like the situation did more good to me than bad. It’s made me realize that everything can be lost. It definitely took that to mature me and see that I had my whole life’s work taken away over one error. I’m more dedicated now, but I’m going to value things way more too. This is just a fight I want to look spectacular in.

Dirrell, he’s a great fighter, I take nothing away from him but I need these kind of opponents to reach my goals. I’m faster than last year, I’m smarter and my boxing IQ is higher. When I’m put in these types of situations, I never fold. The best comes out of me. This is my second pay-per-view fight that I’m going to be co-headlining and this is where I wanted to be my whole life so I’m going to take full advantage of this situation.

Q
My question to you is what should Los Angeles fans would look forward to come to see you on Saturday?

D. Benavidez
The fans can expect to see me in an exciting fight. I’m going to make it a war. I’m going in there and I’m looking for the knockout. I want to make my people proud this fight and it’s going to be a hell of a fight.

Q
Anything you would like to say to the fans that are going to come to see you from Los Angeles?

D. Benavidez
I’m fighting in my own backyard. I’ve got a lot of friends here, a lot of family here. A lot of people that support me. There’s a lot of Mexican people here so I’m definitely going to be putting on for them and it’s going to be an amazing fight. I’m going to try my best to knock Dirrell out.

Q
When you saw Anthony Dirrell win the title that you used to own, what did it make you feel? Do you feel like maybe he was not truly the champion and it made you all the more hungrier to show Dirrell that you are the rightful WBC Champion?

D. Benavidez
Definitely. I felt it as soon as he fought for the belt in February because when I fought was it two or three weeks after that. It was very hard just to go through seeing him win the title that was mine. But he’s the real champion and he fought for the Vacant Title so I’m not going to take that away from him. But knowing that that was my belt that I have, I’m just coming in this fight very hungry, very motivated. I have about three and a half months training. So I was very focused for this training camp. So this is the best thing that you guys are ever going to see. That you guys have seen actually, so I’m very excited to go in there and give a great fight and get my title back.

Q
Do you feel like when you made your return about against J’Leon Love that any ring rust was there that you knocked off? Was it enough time to really knock it off or do you feel like you really had to get that experience through your sparring sessions?

D. Benavidez
With the last fight when I fought J’Leon Love I wanted to get at least five rounds in. But I’m not going to complain for knocking this guy out early. But I’ve had so much sparring in this training camp and in the last training camp. For this training camp I’ve had at least over 200 rounds sparring. I feel like everything came into place. Everything is going really good and I’m just going to be extremely ready.

I’m not going to kill myself over the rounds because I didn’t get enough rounds for the last fight. I know exactly what I’m stepping into. We have an amazing game plan and like I said, I’m just ready to go.

Q
Was that sparring with Shawn Porter more to help out Shawn or did you feel like he was offering you something in the sparring that you were getting something that was useful to you as well?

D. Benavidez
Definitely if you’re a great fighter you can find things to try to help yourself. Obviously I’m bigger than Shawn Porter and heavier than him. So I wasn’t trying to kill him but the thing about Shawn Porter that makes him so good is that he’s a very good pressure fighter. So me, for what I was trying to do, I was trying to use a little bit more of my boxing skills, just to work on that in case I have to use that in the fight for Anthony Dirrell. So you kind of have to see in what areas you have to work on yourself.

I was boxing around a little bit. Trying to stop him with my jab, throwing a lot of jabs. So we both definitely walked away with something good from that sparring session.

Q
Final question, obviously there’s been a lot of chatter between Caleb Plant and you back and forth. Is it hard to block out the surrounding noise from a guy like Caleb Plant to focus on Anthony Dirrell or is that something that you’re use to and you just deal with it when time comes?

D. Benavidez
I don’t hear any chatter at all. I just hear some people saying that that would be a good fight. , to me personally he doesn’t tell me anything or I don’t hear anything from here. So it’s not hard to block something out when I don’t hear anything to start off with. But it’s the same thing as everybody else in the business. Caleb Plant, Anthony Dirrell, Callum Smith — there’s all these fights are great fights to be made. I just train and prepare for each fight that I have. So, yes it’s not hard at all. When it’s time for those fights to be made it’s going to be made.

Q
How important is it for you to make this effort to interact with the fans? Here you are training, the fight is coming up. You probably could have used a day off but you’re out with them. What’s that about to you?

D. Benavidez
It’s not only just for me, at the end of the day when I fight it’s for the fans, it’s for the coaches. There was a big celebration yesterday with Mexican Independence Day. They were celebrating that yesterday and they asked me if I wanted to be there. If I wanted to go sign some pictures for some fans and we ended up giving away some free tickets and shirts.

I’m in a position right now where I’m just blessed that people like to see me. When I was younger I didn’t really think I was going to get to this point but I’ve gotten so much love, not only from the father’s but from the kids, the mothers. Everybody likes to see me and they support me so definitely as much as they support me, I’m going to go and support them.

I have no problems signing and we signed a lot of pictures yesterday. We took a lot of pictures, gave a lot of shirts out, so it’s very important to me, just so I can be out there and they can see. They know that I’m out there and they know I’m not going to be that type of boxer that’s hard and never going to attend these events. I’m always going to attend these events. Because I feel like it’s very important to show the fans and the community that I’m out there for them just like how they’re there for me. So it’s very something – it was a very special day for me yesterday.

Q
How important also has it been this last year when you’ve been out of the ring to have your family around you, being a boxing family that understands what it’s all about?

D. Benavidez
It was very important. When we got suspended for a year we didn’t know what to do with our time. Obviously we trained but it’s like when you’re training and you don’t have anything coming up, you just train, you go home and talk about the mistakes that lead you to that point. And I felt like I matured a lot from that point, just talking to my father and my father being around me, supporting me and my family supporting me through this whole situation.

I feel like I’m very grateful just to have my family there with me always supporting me. At the end of the day, this is what I do it for. I don’t just do it for me. I do it for my family. Obviously I do it for my legacy when I get older too but I put my family before myself every time. So everything that’s good for me is good for them. I’m just very appreciative that they’re there supporting me no matter what.

Q
So you’ve been pretty vocal that you’re gunning for the knockout in this fight. I’m just wondering if you could talk about what gives you that confidence?

D. Benavidez
I’m 22 years old but everybody sees my strengths. They know I have a good speed. I’m very strong. I feel like with the confidence I have right now in my power, I feel like anybody who I hit, it doesn’t matter who it is, I’ll hurt them. I trained very hard for this fight. I had three and a half months I haven’t slacked on anything, my diet has been very good, my recovery has been very good, my strength and conditioning has been excellent. So all of these factors have given me so much confidence in my abilities.

Also what gives me a lot of confidence is knowing that Anthony Dirrell hasn’t been stopped. Knowing that nobody has knocked him out. So I want to push myself to the absolute limit and do something that not everyone has done. Anthony Dirrell has never been hurt, he’s never been knocked out. So imagine what that’s going to do for my confidence if I’m the only one who knocks Anthony Dirrell out, if I knocked him out in this fight, that’s what just keeps me going because I know I can. I know whoever I put my hands on I can hurt. It doesn’t matter who it is and I can do it a variety of ways. I can do it from body shots, I can do it from head shots, I can do it from liver shots, I can do everything.

So coming into this fight I know what I can do and I know who I’ve been there with. He has a lot of experience but I also have a lot of experience too. I’m 22 years old and I’ve been a professional for almost seven years now. I’ve been in big fights, I’ve been in 12 round Championship fights. I fought some great contenders. So as much experience as he has, I have as well. And I know I can hurt him, I just know I can hurt him. So it’s not of a matter of if I can hurt him but it’s a matter of when I’m going to hurt him.

I’m extremely ready, camp couldn’t have gone any better. A card like this in Los Angeles at the STAPLES Center, the stakes can’t be any higher man. I’m just ready to do this.

Q
Are you still developing in the gym? What do you have to say about that?

D. Benavidez
That’s why I’m so confident for this fight because this is a sparring session. This camp alone I’ve felt the strongest I’ve ever felt in my whole camp, in my whole life. That’s why I know when I’m going to catch Anthony Dirrell, I’m going to put him away because I just feel extremely strong. Last week I did 15 rounds in sparring. I think it was last Friday, no it was 16 rounds of sparring with four different guys. So I know I’m ready for this. This is the strongest I’ve ever been in my life and I just can’t wait.

D. Benavidez
I just want to thank everybody for the opportunities I’ve been put in, especially PBC, Sampson Lewkowicz, and my father Jose Benavidez. Everybody has been there with me even after those mistakes, they just still treated me really good. Nothing has changed. Like I’ve said, this is the biggest fight of my life fighting at the STAPLES Center and I can’t wait. I guarantee you there will be a new WBC World Champion come September 28. Thank you so much for everything.

R.Flores
This next young man you’ll be hearing from has an impressive record. He’s undefeated 24 and 0, 16 wins coming by of way of knockout. He’s continuing the great tradition of Mexican American fighters from the state of Texas. Another rising star looking to break into the title ranks. He’s a top 140-pound contender. He has gone ahead and rattled off eight straight knockout victories since moving up here to 140-pounds. Most recently having knocked out Juan Jose Velasco in two rounds in May back on FOX, he’s going to fight his toughest challenge to date in the fellow unbeaten Batyr Akhmedov.

He’s undefeated 24 and 0, 16 wins coming by way of knockout. Training in the Bay Area under the guidance of esteemed trainer, Virgil Hunter. Please welcome from San Antonio, Texas the undefeated Mario “El Azteca” Barrios.

Mario Barrios
Of course as a fighter, every training camp feels like the best one, but this one really has been a great camp. We left no stone unturned during this preparation for this fight. I’m aware this is my biggest opposition to date and I’m going to be exciting and go for that Vacant WBA World Title.

Q
I just was wondering from the moment that this fight has been made to now, what’s been going through your head? Has it been like a dream? Has it sunk in that you’re actually fighting for a Title?

M. Barrios
Yes, it’s definitely sunk in, which is why we really made sure we’ve done everything in this training camp in preparation for this fight. I’m well aware of the opportunity and what I’m facing. I’m well aware of the guy I’m going to be facing come fight night. If anything though, it’s been a lot of motivation. There hasn’t been any pressure whatsoever. I promised San Antonio a World Title a long time ago. The opportunity is now in front of me and nothing is going to get in the way of that.

Q
Do you expect nerves to be a problem? You’ve been on some big cards and some big venues. Are you doing anything special to battle the nerves? Do you expect that to be a problem come Saturday night?

M. Barrios
No, I don’t feel any nerves going into this fight. I’ve competed on some of the biggest fight cards in all PBC. This is my third time returning to the STAPLES Center. It’s always a great turn out there, especially, with the Mexican American fans and just boxing fans in general. I’m looking forward to it being a very packed night there but again, no nerves going into this fight. Nothing is going to stop me from going into the fight and dominating the way that we’ve been preparing.

Q
What would winning this title mean to you and to join that select group of San Antonio World Champions?

M. Barrios
Man, it’s one of the biggest I think accomplishments and biggest honors for me. Like I’ve said, taking the World Title back to San Antonio, to me I think only the fifth person in San Antonio history that’s been able to do that. Yeah so it’s going to be an indescribable feeling but first thing is first and that’s to go out there and take care of business next Saturday.

Q
What do you think you bring to the table that’s going to catch people’s eye?

M. Barrios
Not being full of myself but I think I could call myself an all-around fighter and then given my size in this division, I’m one of the biggest probably currently at 140-pounds. I use my size to my advantage and I can box very well on the outside. I work well off my jab but growing up in Texas I have a good amateur background as well.

I really learned how to fight in the inside, I guess you would say Mexican style and that I would brawl. So I’m able to box and brawl. People ask me about my style, I tell them I’m a boxer puncher. Because I’m not just a power punch. My last eight fights have been stoppages but it’s not like I’m just going out there and just winging shots and just catching lucky shots. Every fighter that I’ve stopped, they’ve been stopped in different ways, with different punches.

So I think this fight is going to continue to show the boxing fans about my presence and my place in the division and in the sport.

Q
Do you feel an advantage when you have a height advantage or a length advantage? I know some people say that they don’t feel one. Do you feel more empowered having a size advantage?

M. Barrios
Actually I would always prefer fighting someone that was closer to my height. A lot of times when I was early in my pro career I would fight some guys that were real short, almost too short and that actually presents a lot of trouble a lot of times but Akhmedov, he’s a good height, he’s not too short, not too tall. So whether he knows I’m fighting on the outside or whether it becomes a very busy inside fight, I’m ready for either one of those.

Q
I’m just wondering if you can talk about what the last few years of your career have been like?

M. Barrios
When I first started I was 18 years old when I turned pro and I turned pro at 122. So I was very new.

Most of my fights I was just going out there just and depending on my length and power to stop fighters as opposed to now I really, especially under the guidance of Virgil Hunter, I really gained an insight into all the little things that matter in this sport. When I started working with Virgil about three or four years ago, it really showed me a lot, because he was able to take me to that next level, that world championship stage, which is where we’re at. I think this time, being with Virgil and just maturing overall has been the biggest factors for me.

Q
Just wondering if you could give your assessment of Akhmedov in general and being an Eastern European fighter with relatively so few fights?

M. Barrios

Yes, Akhmedov he has an impressive amateur resume. He has the experience coming in with him but for one of the first times going into a fight, I’m actually the veteran. Of course the pros and amateurs they’re two different ballgames and come fight night I’m going to use everything that I’ve learned in past 24 fights and I’m going to put everything to use.

Again, I’m not saying I’m overlooking Akhmedov. I’m expecting the best version of him that has possibly ever showed up but, like I said, I’ve had a great camp. I know I’m ready to give him any kind of fight that he wants.

Q
Have you by any chance I know you said had kind of relationship with John Michael Johnson. Has he talked to you about fighting for a world title? Have you talked to him lately at all?

M. Barrios
No. I haven’t spoke to him in a while just aside from little comments that he will post on anything I post. But he gives his support which means a lot, especially coming from just my hometown.

All my family, my sisters, my parents, they’re all going to be there and then even just a lot of friends and family that are flying in for the fight. There’s quite a bit. it’s hard to even say.

I know my placement in my division and I know this fight it is a world title and it’s just going to propel me even closer to fighting the current champions.

I started boxing when I was six years old. As soon as I turned eight I started competing. So it’s always been a dream, but now that I’m here it feels surreal. I’m going to take this opportunity. , like I said, there’s nothing that’s going to get in the way of me and this world title.

Q
Is this fight being for the WBA title, was that sort of incentive for you to try and stay at 140 pounds a little longer or was that always plan to stay at 140 pounds through the rest of the year?

M. Barrios
That was my plan originally with the move up to try to dominate and to try to fight for as many of the world titles as I possibly could. Right now I’m still making the weight comfortably, so that goal is going to remain the same. There’s no doubt I’m going to move up to welterweight eventually but that time isn’t now.

Q
Is this fight a statement fight to those aforementioned champions saying that you’ve arrived and you have your case being made for being one of the best junior welterweights in the world?

M. Barrios
That’s exactly how I look at it. I wanted this fight. I felt I’d really proven myself in my past few fights but this one for sure, it’s going to put all the the world champions on notice that I’m right there knocking on the door to be fighting them next.

Q
I want you explain to the rest of the writers here what does Mexican-style boxing mean to you and how does it influence your style, your boxing style in the job you’ve put on for the fans?

M. Barrios
Yes I figure everyone’s general description of Mexican style is sitting there and pretty much just brawling. The body punches as well and just being able to mix it up and to keep that pressure. There’s no doubt that I possess those abilities as well as being a boxer.

But given the fight day close to Mexican Independence Day, which is actually today, I’m excited to go out there and put on for my people, for my city and just the boxing fans in general.

Q
What are you looking for to capitalize against this guy come fight night?

M. Barrios
Like I mentioned he has a great amateur pedigree so he has that experience but he doesn’t really have that experience in the pros. No matter which Akhmedov shows up and how he chooses to fight, I know that I’ll be able to adjust and use all of the tools that I’ve learned in my past 24 fights against him.

M. Barrios
I appreciate you all having me. I appreciate the media all coming in asking their questions and thank you to all the fans and supporters.

R. Flores
Next we will move on to Anthony Dirrell. He won his title by winning a technical decision over Avni Yildirim in February on FS1. His record is 33 wins, one loss, one draw, with 24 wins coming by way of knockout, he’s always in exciting matchups. He literally brings his best and brings everything that he has every single time he steps inside the ring. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the reigning and defending WBC Super Middleweight Champion of the World here is Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell. Anthony, opening comments.

A. Dirrell
How you all doing, how you all doing? You all can start with the questions. I’m just ready to fight. It’s been a long camp and a great camp and I’m just ready to get this job done.

Q
David says he wants to knock you out. Do you think he actually believes? What’s your take on that?

A. Dirrell
I think everybody is going in there looking for the knockout. Does that happen every time? No, but you’re going to go in there and look for the knockout. Boxers don’t get paid for overtime so of course you’re going to go in there and say we’re looking for the knockout. It makes sense everybody wants you to knock opponents out. That’s what I’m going in there for. I’m looking for the knockout. I think I do it every time and I’m ready for the 28th. I’m ready to defend my title and be successful at it.

Q
How do you rank the challenge of facing him compared to the rest of the fighters you fought in your career?

A. Dirrell
I think he’s a good fighter, but the toughest I don’t know. I haven’t been in there with him. Styles make fights. You can only can say how the guy is if you’ve been in there. But he’s a tough guy. He’s a tough kid. He’s 22 years old. He’s going in there to take what’s mine and I got to defend my title of course, and I’ll be successful doing that.

Q
Do you think that you have an advantage in that you can try to exploit maybe that inexperience against guys at the world level?

A. Dirrell
I think everybody has power, especially with 10 ounce gloves on. I don’t know what kind of power he’s got. Every fighter he knocks out, he was supposed to knock out, just like every fighter I knocked out, I was supposed to knock out. But, like I said, I think styles make fights at the end of the day. I’m going in there, looking for the knockout. I’m going in there doing what I need to do to win this fight. If I don’t get the knockout, I definitely can go 12, and I’m just prepared. I’m mentally amd physically ready for this fight.

Q
Is retirement or talk about retirement still somewhat in the back of your mind after you approach your fights or is that something that you’ve kind of put on hold for now?

A. Dirrell
You don’t think of retirement in a fight this big. You think of the fight. You think of the task at hand. Was I thinking about retiring after the last fight? Of course. I’m getting older and I want to spend time with my family, but I’m not getting old enough where somebody’s going to come in there and just whip me or beat me. I’m going in there prepared, fully ready for this fight and I can’t wait for it to happen on the 28th.

Q
How are you going to use your experience to outthink David Benavidez?

A. Dirrell
You’ll have to see on the 28th. I’m not going to sit here and talk about my game plan. You’ll just have to see on the 28th. I know it’s going to be a hell of a fight, especially with a guy like David Benavidez. He’s coming to fight. And everybody knows from my previous fights, even my last fight, I’m coming to fight also and that’s not going to stop me.

Age is nothing but a number. George Foreman did it at, what, 50? Bernard Hopkins did it at 50. You do it because you want to do it and your body is allowing you to do it. So me being this age is not an excuse. I’m going to go in there and do what I need to do to win this fight.

Q
Where do you think David Benavidez stacks in there with your opponents based on what he’s accomplished so far?

A. Dirrell
I don’t know. I have to get in there and fight him. I can tell you better after the fight but right now he’s a champion. He knocked people out he wasn’t supposed to knock out. He did what he was supposed to do. And I just feel I’m so much better, so. Like I say, on the 28th and all the talk is over with. It’s just the fight.

Q
It looks like that you fought at the STAPLES Center 13 years ago, it’s hard to believe it was that long ago, but you’re certainly going to be in an arena where most of the fans are going to be there for your opponent. Does that fire you up? How do you use that?

A. Dirrell
I don’t use it. It’s just me and him in the right. You can’t use that. You use that, you’re messing up your game plan. It’s me and him in the ring and that’s all the matters.

Q
How important is the family support to you and what does it mean to you to have them there?

A. Dirrell
It’s very important. My family’s been there through my whole career. I’ve been boxing almost 26 years and they’ve been there for our ups and downs, blood, sweat and tears so I’m really thankful for them, thankful for my wife. My kids even watch my fights. So I’m really thankful that they’re by my side and I’ve got a family that I can depend on.

Q
How much do you believe your experience will play a factor in this fight?

A. Dirrell
I think it’ll be a big factor. I think I’m a little more polished in that area and just going there and stick to my game plan and do what I need to do to win this fight, no matter how the win comes, as long as it comes.

Q
When you’re fighting do you develop a dislike for your opponent at all or is it strictly business?

A. Dirrell
No, it’s business. It’s strictly business. There’s no personal issues. It’s business. They’re trying to knock you out and you’re trying to knock them out. That’s all it is. I have no animosity or anything towards David at all. I think him and his family are good people. They’re respectful people and that’s good but on the 28th all that respect goes out the window.

Q
It’s been well documented that David Benavidez sparred Shawn Porter. Do you feel that that’s kind of a waste of time for him or what are your thoughts on that as far as in relation to your fight with him?

A. Dirrell
I think he’s sparred with Shawn one time. That has nothing to do with me. Shawn isn’t very tallwe don’t even have the same fighting style, nothing. Shawn can get something out of it but not David, I don’t think. But his sparring at the end of the day you spar who you can spar and just get the experience. Like I said, I don’t know.

Q
What’s the key to your longevity in the game?

A. Dirrell:
Just fight smarter, not harder. I think my last fight was a little hard. I made it hard. But you’ve just got to fight smarter and hit and not be hit, that’s the game. That’s boxing. On the 24th, will there be war? It might be. Will it be a boxing match? It might be. I don’t know. I’ll have to determine that when I get into the ring.

Q
Can you describe what “Flint Strong” means and what kind of energy does that bring into the fight with you being from Flint and being from a long line of great Michigan fighters?

A. Dirrell
“Flint Strong” is we’re all the city. We’re all one. We all support each other from Myles Bridges to Kyle Kuzma, Javale McGee and Monte Morris and many more. You’ve got a lot of people that are from Flint. You’ve got a lot of these athletes that rep Flint. If you look at any one of their tattoos, I bet they have Flint on them or A1O. it’s just us sticking together as a city as a whole and trying to make us better.

A. Dirrell
Just tune in. If you can’t get there, definitely tune in. It’s going to be an amazing show at the end of the day. The fans will win. The fans are who we’re coming out there to do this performance for and at the end of the day, they will win. And, like I said, if you can’t be there, order it. It’ll be a heck of a card.

Tickets for the September 28th event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

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