DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. DAVID MORRELL JR. LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES – November 19, 2024 – Undefeated light heavyweight stars David “El Monstro” Benavidez and David Morrell Jr. went face-to-face Tuesday at a press conference in Los Angeles before they meet for Benavidez’s Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title and Morrell’s WBA Light Heavyweight Title in the main event of a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, February 1 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference also featured WBC Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr., as they meet in a much-anticipated rematch in the co-main event.

Also at Tuesday’s press conference was fan-favorite and former world champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, who meets hard-charging contender Angel Fierro in an all-Mexican pay-per-view undercard attraction, and rising Mexican star Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. and former unified champion Jeison Rosario, who square off in the pay-per-view opener.

**Pre-sale tickets are AVAILABLE NOW until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC. The public on-sale is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 20 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing and Warriors Boxing.

This lineup features a bevy of the sport’s top talent, all topped by a showdown years in the making as Benavidez and Morrell meet with a chance to not only establish themselves as the future of the light heavyweight division, but as a potential force on pound-for-pound lists and one of the faces of the sport for years to come. The two undefeated titans had a heated stare down and engaged in frequent verbal back-and-forths during the event, promising to end their February 1 clash with a knockout.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from The NOVO at L.A. Live:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“Here we are again. I told you that I was going to give you the fights you want to see, and now we’re here. Morrell has been talking about me for a while and disrespecting me. He wanted to make it personal with me, so I’m personally going to break his mouth. That’ll give him something to remember me by.

“These are the type of fighters I want to fight. I want to face guys who think that they’re going to go in there and knock me out. He’s never fought anyone like me and I’m going to show everyone there’s levels to this.

“I want the props that I deserve when I beat the crap out of him. I love that he’s confident. I love facing guys like this.

“He knows what he said and that’s exactly what I needed to get me going for this fight. He thinks he’s big and bad, but he’s nothing. I’m gonna show him who’s the best on February 1.

“It’s not time to play anymore. It’s really time to see who the best David is. I want to show everyone where I stand. I want to take over and show everyone I’m the most ferocious fighter out there.”

DAVID MORRELL JR.

“I’m getting the knockout. 100%. He’s all talk and no bite. He can’t do what he thinks he’s gonna do.

“For a long time I’ve waited for this opportunity to fight Benavidez. On Saturday, February 1

I promise Benavidez and I promise everyone watching, it’s going to be a great fight.

“I know it’s not going to be an easy fight, but nothing is easy in life. I promise that I’m ready to fight.

“Everybody says that Benavidez is the bogeyman and that no one wants to fight him, and I want to face the best. That’s why I went straight for him.

“He has no idea what he’s talking about, but he’s provoking me and now I want to go out there and beat the crap out of him. I’m here now and none of that talk matters.

“This is a huge moment for me. I’m putting everything into this fight on February 1.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I want to fight the best, so shoutout to Fulton for stepping up to the plate. I’m here to fight the best and I’m not overlooking anyone. This is the fight that I’ve been waiting for the last three years and I don’t plan to leave it to the judges this time.

“I learned a lot from the loss. It lit a fire in me that hasn’t been unlit. We both come to fight and I’m excited that the rematch is even bigger and better now on one of the best cards of the year.

“This means everything. I get to get my lick back and give fans another exciting show. It was fun the first time with a controversial decision, but I don’t plan to leave it to the judges. He had trouble with Carlos Castro and I got him out of there in six rounds.

“I’m growing and evolving as a fighter. My fire is burning bigger and bigger. I just want to prove that I’m the best 126-pounder and one of the best fighters in the world period.

“I’m gonna fight my fight. I come forward and I’m aggressive. I have a unique style. This time around I’m just hungry to make a statement. I want to challenge Naoya Inoue, that’s the goal.

“On February 1 he’s gonna see that I hurt him at 122 pounds and at 126 pounds I’m gonna put him away. I’m making a statement and it won’t go 12 rounds.”

STEPHEN FULTON JR.

“Round 13 coming soon. I’m thankful that he took the fight again and I can’t wait to get in the ring.

“I know how he fights. We’re familiar with each other, and when you are, you know what to expect from your opponent. I expect it to be action-packed again.

“I’m gonna get the job done on February 1 and make any adjustments I have to. I have the power to hurt him. Whoever steps foot in the ring with me going forward will see that.

“People forget who I am. I can do whatever I want in that ring. I have to remind everyone at this point. Can I knock him out? Yes, because he runs into things. There are many ways I know I can beat this guy. On February 1 I will be a two-division world champion. I’m going to make this one look more clear.

“I felt cool in my last fight. Even when I got dropped, I wasn’t hurt. Being at the bigger weight class gave me the extra strength and energy that I need.

“I won the fight, so I don’t really care what anyone says about my last fight. I know that I’m gonna be victorious. I’m bigger and stronger and I’ve learned a lot now. He’s gonna find out.

“I’m here to become world champion again. Trust me.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“This fight means everything to me because it’s Mexico vs. Mexico, and everyone knows what happens when two Mexicans collide. It’s gonna be a war for sure.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity. It’s going to be a great showcase and I can’t wait for February 1.

“I don’t want to be too eager in the ring, I just want to achieve my goal on February 1 and get my hand raised. I’m sharpening my tools so I can be at my best when that bell rings.

“I learn from every fight, so I don’t ever consider a fight a loss. It’s given me the opportunity to look at things from another perspective. I promise that I’m coming back even stronger.”

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“Rosario is a veteran who’s been champion and knows what it feels like at the top, and that’s what I want. I’m grateful to have a tough opponent and I’m ready to put on a show like always.

“I’m expecting the best version of Jeison Rosario, because he knows his back is against the wall. This fight is going to define his career, and that makes him dangerous. I’m going to prepare for the best Jeison Rosario there could possibly be.

“I’m coming to knock him out. I’ve learned not to leave things up to the judges, so I’m preparing myself for the knockout. I respect him as a fighter and I thank him for the opportunity, but I have to do my job. That’s the way this business goes.”

JEISON ROSARIO

“This fight is even bigger for me than when I won the world titles against Julian Williams. This is going to be a war and a showcase of my best abilities. I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity.

“Ramos is a hungry fighter and I took this fight happily because I know it will be exciting. I’ve fixed my mistakes and I’m ready to show Ramos that there’s nowhere to hide in that ring.

“This is the most important fight of my life and the most significant fight of my career. This will catapult me to fight for the world championship again. My story is not over, not yet.”

# # #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. MORRELL

Benavidez vs. Morrell will see Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and WBA Light Heavyweight Champion David Morrell Jr. meet in a battle of unbeatens that pits two of the sport’s most exciting fighters against each other in the primes of their careers headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Feb. 1 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The co-main event will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa defend his title against former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. in a rematch of one of 2021’s best fights.

The pay-per-view will also feature Mexican star and former world champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing the hard-charging contender Angel Fierro in an all-Mexican super lightweight duel, plus rising Mexican star Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. battles former unified champion Jeison Rosario in a 10-round middleweight fight that opens the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

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

MEXICAN STAR & TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION DAVID BENAVIDEZ MEETS CUBAN SENSATION & TWO-TIME CHAMPION DAVID MORRELL JR. HEADLINING A PBC PAY-PER-VIEW EVENT ON PRIME VIDEO SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – November 19, 2024 – Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and WBA Light Heavyweight Champion David Morrell Jr. will meet in a battle of unbeatens that pits two of the sport’s most exciting fighters against each other in the primes of their careers headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Feb. 1 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Pre-sale tickets are AVAILABLE NOW until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC. The public on sale is scheduled for TOMORROW, Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing and Warriors Boxing.

“I’m very proud to help deliver this fantastic super fight to the fans,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “The boxing world has been anticipating the David Benavidez vs. David Morrell Jr. showdown between these two heated rivals who don’t like each other at all, and now it is here on February 1. The stakes will be high and both fighters will be in great shape, as the winner will be an interim unified light heavyweight champion, as well as the final mandatory for the WBC and WBA titles. T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will be packed for this Mexico vs. Cuba matchup for the ages.”

“These are two great fighters going against each other in their primes, what could be better?” said Luis DeCubas Sr. of Warriors Boxing. “This is a fight Morrell has wanted for years and we’re very happy that these two great young guys are fighting each other now. It’s gonna be the aggressive boxer in Benavidez against the boxer-puncher in Morrell. It could very easily turn into a Hagler vs. Hearns type of fight, because both guys can punch and aren’t afraid to trade.”

**DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. DAVID MORRELL JR.**

The two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez will step in to face the toughest opponent of his career in the undefeated Cuban sensation David Morrell Jr. in the 12-round main event that will be contested for both Benavidez’s Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title and Morrell’s WBA Light Heavyweight Championship belt.

The 27-year-old undefeated Benavidez (29-0, 24 KOs) followed up a standout 2023 campaign by moving up to light heavyweight in 2024 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over the former world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk in June that earned him his interim title. Benavidez’s 2023 began with him besting longtime rival Caleb Plant via unanimous decision in a March slugfest before stopping the previously unbeaten two-division champion Demetrius Andrade in six rounds in November. A Phoenix-native who now trains in Miami, Benavidez became the youngest-ever 168-pound world champion at just 20-years-old when he defeated Ronald Gavril by split decision for the vacant WBC title in 2017. When he was 15 years old, Benavidez went from weighing 250 pounds to a boxing prodigy under the watchful eye of his father and trainer, Jose, Sr., and his brother and veteran contender Jose Jr., as he famously held his own in sparring against middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin as a teenager. Benavidez rode a string of six straight knockout victories heading into the bout against Plant, including KOs of former world champions Anthony Dirrell and David Lemieux.

“I can’t wait for this challenge on February 1 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas,” said Benavidez. “David Morrell Jr. is a great boxer, but come fight night, I will be the better man and show the world why I’m an elite fighter. I always take on the toughest opponents that are willing to step into the ring with me, because I know that I have to prove myself each and every time. When that bell rings, everyone will see that I’m the best fighter in the world.”

A Cuban-native who came to Minneapolis to begin his pro career in 2019, Morrell (11-0, 9 KOs) has quickly shown off the talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s storied amateur scene. The 26-year-old also debuted in the light heavyweight division this year after an extended and successful run at super middleweight, defeating Radivoje Kalajdzic by unanimous decision in August to capture his WBA title. Morrell had scored seven-straight knockouts before that fight, including a violent first-round stoppage of Olympic Bronze medalist Yamaguchi Falcao in April 2023 and a second-round destruction of Sena Agbeko in December of that same year. During his super middleweight run, Morrell won an interim title by dominating the then-unbeaten Lennox Allen in August 2020 in just his third pro fight. Now trained in Stafford, Texas by the legendary trainer Ronnie Shields, Morrell will finally get the opportunity to face a top-flight opponent after calling for the opportunity against Benavidez ever since he arrived stateside and began his professional boxing journey.

“This is the fight the fans have been waiting for, and I’m ready to give them a show they’ll never forget,” said Morrell. “This is two undefeated fighters in their prime, stepping into the ring and giving everything we’ve got. That’s what boxing is all about. Everyone should be getting this pay-per-view, because you’re going to see something special. I believe this will go down as one of the most memorable fights in boxing history and I’m excited to make it happen. I’m knocking David Benavidez out!.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. STEPHEN FULTON JR.**

The 12-round co-main event will see the much-anticipated rematch of a memorable 2021 clash as WBC Featherweight World Champion Brandon Figueroa takes on former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. Their first showdown was a super bantamweight world title unification that pitted the relentless forward attack of Figueroa against the slick skills of Fulton, with the bout ending in a majority decision for Fulton (116-112 twice and 114-114).

The 27-year-old Figueroa (25-1-1, 19 KOs) was recently elevated to world champion after former champion Rey Vargas was declared champion in recess. Figueroa won the Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 2023 Fight of the Year contender that saw him score a unanimous decision over former champion Mark Magsayo. He returned this May to successfully defend his interim title with a ninth-round knockout of former champion Jessie Magdaleno, increasing his winning streak to three straight since the first Fulton fight. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former two-division champion Luis Nery in their May 2021 championship clash, as he stopped Nery with a body shot in round seven. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“Training is going great and I’m very excited to return on another big fight card against a championship caliber opponent,” said Figueroa. “I expect Fulton to be at his best, but I will go into that ring very prepared to convince everyone who really won the first time. I don’t plan on letting it go to the judges this time around.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton (22-1, 8 KOs) made a successful featherweight debut in September, rising from an early knockdown to defeat all-action contender Carlos Castro by decision. It was Fulton’s first fight since a July 2023 challenge that saw him travel to Japan to take on undefeated Japanese superstar Naoya Inoue, eventually dropping the road contest in round eight. In his previous 14 professional fights before facing Inoue, the 30-year-old had established himself on pound-for-pound lists by beating eight previously undefeated fighters. Fulton first became a world champion by taking the super bantamweight title from Angelo Leo in January 2021, before unifying against Figueroa. Trained in his hometown, Fulton has displayed sublime boxing skills that have allowed him to dominate opponents of varying styles and control fights from start to finish.

“I’m feeling strong and ready to return to the ring on a wonderful pay-per-view card to win my third world title in my second division,” said Fulton. “I expect Figueroa to make it a rough fight, just like he did in the first fight. But everyone saw what happened the first time, so I predict I’ll become three-time world champion and a two-division champion come fight night. Whatever I have to do to get my hand raised, I’ll be ready.”

**ISAAC CRUZ VS. ANGEL FIERRO**

One of the most popular active fighters from Mexico, Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will return to action to face the hard-charging Angel Fierro in a super lightweight duel that marks Cruz’s first appearance in the ring since he lost his WBA Super Lightweight World Championship to Jose Valenzuela via split-decision in August.

Buoyed on by his passionate fan base, Cruz (26-3-1, 18 KOs) became a world champion in March as he hurt Rolando Romero badly in round one before eventually ending the fight in round eight via TKO to claim the WBA title. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Matias Romero. This rise led to the 26-year-old challenging undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021, a fight that saw Cruz lose by decision to become just the second fighter to see the final bell against Davis. Trained by his father Isaac Cruz Sr., Cruz also owns stoppage wins over former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez, in addition to a 12-round decision over the then-unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera.

“I’m very happy to be back in the ring on February 1 and in the fight capital of the world in Las Vegas,” said Cruz. “I’m facing a real Mexican warrior like myself and I’m excited to give fans the type of fight that they love. It will be a lot more entertaining than my last fight, when my opponent ran all night long and the judges made a terrible decision. This time, I will not leave it up to the judges, because I’m going for the knockout. Fierro and myself are going to show what Mexican style is all about and go toe-to-toe until someone gets knocked out.”

Originally from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, Fierro (22-2-2, 17 KOs) now fights out of San Diego and has made a name for himself with his aggressive style and power punching prowess. The 26-year-old has fought professionally since 2015 and was undefeated in his first 17 outings. He announced his presence as a world contender in 2021 with a career-best victory as he rose from the canvas to stop former world champion Alberto Machado in round six. Most recently, Fierro had a three-fight winning streak snapped when he lost a June decision against Alfredo Santiago, with the only other loss of Fierro’s career coming via split-decision in January 2020 against Alex Martin. February 1 will mark Fierro’s third career fight stateside, and his first since a majority draw against Juan Carlos Burgos in March 2022.

“Ever since I turned professional, my dream was to fight in Las Vegas,” said Fierro. “Spending time training with my mentor and idol Erik Morales really taught me how to fight under pressure and now I have the perfect opponent to display those skills against in ‘Pitbull’ Cruz. I’m from Tijuana and we love facing fighters from Mexico City, it’s a tremendous rivalry. On February 1, the fans will be the winners, because I won’t take a step back. I’m coming to knock out ‘Pitbull’ and prove who is the best 140-pounder in Mexico.”

**JESUS RAMOS JR. VS. JEISON ROSARIO**

Rising Mexican star Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. will look to make it back-to-back victories when he faces his most accomplished opponent to date in the former unified world champion Jeison Rosario, as they meet in a 10-round middleweight fight that opens the pay-per-view action.

After coming up on the wrong end of a contested decision against top contender Erickson Lubin in September 2023, Ramos (21-1, 17 KOs) returned to the ring in style this May, stopping Johan Gonzalez in round nine to reaffirm his status as a world championship contender. A native of Casa Grande, Ariz., Ramos had worked his way up the rankings by defeating a slew of contenders including Brian Mendoza, Javier Molina, Vladimir Hernandez and an emphatic stoppage of the then-unbeaten Joey Spencer. Trained by his father Jesus Sr., and the nephew of veteran contender Abel, the 23-year-old Ramos entered the Lubin fighting having stopped seven of his last 10 opponents.

“I’m grateful to be back in the ring on February 1,” said Ramos. “I’m facing an experienced opponent in Jeison Rosario who’s got nothing to lose, and that makes him dangerous. He wants to get back in the mix and I’m preparing to make sure that doesn’t happen. It’s exciting to have this platform to display my talent and show how much I’ve grown since my last fight. This is going to be a great card from top to bottom and I can’t wait to take my place on that big stage.”

Having faced a who’s-who of top contenders throughout his career, Rosario (24-4-2, 18 KOs) will once again go toe-to-toe with a highly touted foe when he takes on Ramos on February 1. Born in the Dominican Republic and fighting out of Miami, Rosario captured the WBA and IBF 154-pound belts by stopping Julian Williams in his hometown in one of 2020’s biggest upsets, earning the title opportunity by defeating a litany of contenders including Jamontay Clark, Marcos Hernandez and Jorge Cota. After beating Williams, Rosario would go on to lose a three-belt unification against Jermell Charlo in 2020 before also challenging top contenders Erickson Lubin and Brian Mendoza. Most recently, Rosario squared off against former unified champion Jarrett Hurd in August as the two fought to a split-draw.

“I’m very thankful to my team for getting me this opportunity and I feel blessed to be in this position,” said Rosario. “With Bob Santos in my corner, I’m extremely motivated to get back on top. Ramos is a good fighter, but I’ve faced the best in this sport and I’m going to use all that experience to get my hand raised on February 1.”

# # #

Canelo answers the challenge, remains the face of Mexican boxing

LAS VEGAS–The face of Mexican boxing has aged.

But it hasn’t changed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I took my time,”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First, Munguia, Munguia.

Then, Canelo, Canelo.

In the end, there was only Canelo.

Still Canelo.

Marios Barrios wins unanimous decision

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

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

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

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

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

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

Figueroa knocks out Magdaleno

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

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

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

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

Stanionis retains welterweight title

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

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

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

Jesus Ramos back with a knockout

It was the right way to end a comeback.

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

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

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

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

BELOW BOUTS BY MARC ABRAMS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA UNDERCARD FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – May 2, 2024 – Fighters competing on the undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the press conference were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

The workout also featured fighters competing on PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view, including hard-hitting contender Jesus Ramos and Johan Gonzalez, who meet in a 10-round bout, and rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Ronald Cruz, who battle opening the live stream at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“This has been a great camp and I’m excited that Saturday is almost here. Respect to Fabian for taking this fight. I know he’s coming with a lot to prove, but I’m going to do whatever it takes to come out with my hand raised.

“The move here to training in Las Vegas has been great for my career. My team and I have continued to add on to what already got me this far in my career and it’s shown in the ring.

“I know Maidana has come a long way. I have no doubt he’s gonna bring the fight. I’m going in there to represent my Mexican and indigenous roots like I always do. I have no doubt the boxing fans will be happy with what they see.

“I have to go out there on Saturday and not only win, but win in grand fashion. Whether it’s by knockout or by controlling the fight, I’m coming with bad intentions like always.

“The welterweight division is stacked. Stanionis and Maestre are both great fighters who I want to face. But I have to get this win to be in those exciting fights.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“I’m inviting everyone to witness what’s going to be a great battle between me and Mario Barrios on Saturday night. Tune in, because it’s going to be an awesome fight.

“I’ve come here to show what I’m made of. I’m here to take the belt away from Mario and bring it back to Argentina. It’s going to be a great battle.

“My style will be the same that it’s always been. I’m gonna stay true to who I am and adjust to what Mario does. The bottom line is that I’m walking away with that belt. I don’t know how it ends, but I’m going to win this fight.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m very honored to be here. I’m always happy to represent my flag and my roots. I can’t wait for Saturday night. I know that everyone up here can’t wait to let their hands go.

“It feels amazing to fight guys like Jessie who are decorated and accomplished. I’ve always wanted to fight the best and here I am on one of the biggest stages of the year. It’s a great opportunity.

“I want to go out there and keep doing my thing. I love fighting and I love everything about this sport. I can’t wait to go in there and put it all together.

“I’m an action-packed fighter. Stacked cards like this with all-action are great for boxing. I’m a fan-friendly fighter and I love putting on a show. I want to make sure that the fans go home satisfied with this beautiful violence.

“This fight ends with everyone winning. It’s a stacked card with Mexicans vs. Mexicans and me and Jessie are ready to put on a show. I can feel the energy from everyone up here. The Mexican fans are electric and I can’t wait to give them a great show.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I’m very excited for this fight. It’s gonna be a fireworks fight on Saturday night. I’m ready to get the show on the road.

“I know I come to put on a show. I always bring it no matter what. I give the fight fans what they want. I look at this as just being the beginning for me.

“A win on Saturday will be something great. We trained tremendously hard for this fight. We’re ready to get in there. It’s going to be an amazing fight for everyone. This is huge for me.

“The fans are gonna be happy. We both come to bring it. May the best man win. It’s gonna be a great fight.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a very long time and I’m very happy to be here fighting in Las Vegas. I’m from a small country and there are very few people who make it to this point from there. I’m very happy that my hard work has earned me this opportunity.

“I just want to be back in the ring. When I hear that bell, I’ll be the happiest man on the planet to be in the ring.

“I’ve been training the whole time I was out of the ring. I’ve stayed disciplined and stayed training all the time. I wanted to be ready as soon as the call came.

“I know he’s coming with everything. This fight is do or die for him, but it’s the same for me. Being on this card is a dream come true and I’m ready to do anything I can to keep my belt.

“I’m not overlooking Maestre, because he’s a tough fighter, but of course I want the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana. I want to be a throwback fighter and take on all challengers.

“I’m coming to bring fireworks. I’m prepared to deliver something special and I can’t wait to see everyone on Saturday.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“This is gonna be a war. I can’t wait to show everyone the fireworks that will be on display in the ring. It’s going to be a clash of two great fighters.

“I’m used to being the underdog. I was the underdog in both fights last year and you saw how those worked out.

“I don’t know how the fight will go, but I know it will be a battle. Mexican fans deserve a war, and that’s what we’ll give them. It’s going to be a spectacle to remember.

“We fought in the amateurs and I thought I should have gotten the decision. But now we’ve turned the page and are different fighters in the pros. It’s going to be a great fight no matter what.”

JESUS RAMOS

“I’m just excited to be back and prove that I am at the top of this division. I have a tough opponent, and that will make for a more exciting fight. That’s exactly what we want.

“I’ve learned a lot from my first defeat. It was controversial and that made it hard. But it’s made me hungrier and now I’m back to prove where I belong. It’s gonna show on Saturday night.

“Gonzalez has power, but I have power as well. I can also box and I have faith in those abilities. I’m going to use everything I have. I’m ready to go toe-to-toe and give the fans a great show as well. I’m not here to back down from anybody.

“I will get my hand raised by any and all means necessary.”

JOHAN GONZALEZ

“I’m very thankful to be here and I’m happy that my team got me in this fight. I’m very motivated to make Venezuela proud. You won’t want to miss it.

“To be a champion you have to fight the best, and Ramos is one of the best. I’m relying on the work my team has put in. We just have to stick to our strategy.

“I come ready for anything he brings. If I have to go to war, we’ll go to war. That’s what being a fighter is all about.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“I’m blessed to be in the position I’m in. Tune-in Saturday night, because you don’t want to miss it. Expect a dominant performance and fireworks. I’m going to keep getting better each and every fight.

“I’ve been staying in the gym and staying locked in working with Ronnie Shields in Houston. I get amazing sparring and it’s helped get me to this moment.

“Being a part of these atmospheres over and over again allows me to have fun and absorb the moment. I’ve worked since I was seven-years-old to be in a position like this. Now it’s time to put on a show Saturday night.

“Just tune in and expect fireworks and a dominant performance. I have a great opponent in front of me, but we worked very hard to prepare for Cruz. I’m leaving the ring with my hand raised.”

RONALD CRUZ

“I’m extremely excited to be here. I know I’m facing a great fighter, but this is my time. I’m here to shock the world.

“I’ve trained really hard for the last two years getting ready to fight for the world title. Vito is in my way, and all respect to him, but we’re going to put on a show Saturday night.

“I like a challenge. A lot of fighters are afraid to take losses, but I’m not. We have to stop him on Saturday night. You’re going to see the game plan when you tune in. We’ve structured an entire camp to stop Vito and I’m excited to show what we have planned.”

# # #

ABOUT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA

Canelo vs. Munguia will see Canelo Promotions present a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

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

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

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

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA UNDERCARD MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – May 1, 2024 – Fighters competing on the undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia event showed off their skills at a media workout Wednesday before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the workout were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

The workout also featured fighters competing on PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view, including hard-hitting contender Jesus Ramos, who battles Johan Gonzalez, and rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr., who duels Ronald Cruz opening the live stream at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m very excited for Saturday. I’m ready to get through fight week and get into the ring. I just can’t wait to fight.

“I always go in there with bad intentions and motivated to show what kind of fighter I am. We worked so hard in the gym and I want to make it worth the effort on Saturday.

“The welterweight division is opening up and I want to be in the big fights. I have a guy in my way on Saturday and I have to take care of him first.

“Whoever comes out of Stanionis vs. Maestre with their hand raised is who I’m gonna want to fight. I want those belts.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“It is a great honor to represent Argentina. I want to showcase what Latin American fighters can truly do in the ring.

“I consider myself a smart fighter. I’m going to measure my steps, think about what I have to do and be tactical. That’s the kind of fighter I am.

“I’m coming to win this fight for my country of Argentina and leave my name in the history books.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m coming to throw punches from all angles, deliver non-stop pressure and give fans an all-action fight. I know he’s coming to do the same. I can’t wait to showcase my skills.

“This is a big fight. I’m excited for this all-Mexican atmosphere. I can’t wait to get in there and give the fans a great show.

“I’m gonna show all my skills. Lefty, righty, boxing, brawling, just anything it takes to get the victory. I have to get the victory and make a statement.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I’m just feeling amazing. I’ve been counting the days. I’m ready to get in there and shock the world.

“A win boosts my career and puts me back to where I’m supposed to be. We’re here to pull off the upset.

“I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve. I’m gonna dance right around him. He better be ready.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a very long time and I’m very hungry. I’m just excited to hear the bell and fight my fight.

“It’s going to be an explosion in the middle of the ring. It’s going to be just like a Mexican-style war.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“I’m happy and very excited for fight night to come. I want the fight to be tonight. I’m coming to win the title and bring the belt back to Venezuela.

“It’s been a long time since me and Stanionis fought in the amateurs. I’m a more seasoned fighter and more prepared. I’m going to showcase all of that on Saturday night.

“I’m really blessed to be representing all of Latin America in this fight. I can’t wait to win this fight for the whole of Latin America.”

JESUS RAMOS

“It wasn’t easy dealing with my first loss, especially because it was controversial, but it’s part of the game. I just needed to stay strong mentally. I’m excited to bounce back.

“A win will help bring me back to the top of the division. It will put me back with the big fights at 154 pounds. I want to face the best and I want to prove that I’m ready for them.

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“We had a great training camp down in Houston with Ronnie Shields. I’m really thankful to my team because they sacrifice a lot for me to do what I love every day.

“I’m getting better and better and growing physically, mentally and spiritually. A young fighter like me needs to show growth and that’s what we’re doing.

“It’s always an honor to be on a platform like this. I’m extremely blessed to be in the position I’m in.”

# # #

ABOUT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PPV UNDERCARD VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – April 11, 2024 – Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia event previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the virtual presser were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who square off in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions, TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m happy to have this opportunity and I’m excited to be back in the ring again. It’s huge to be on a card like this, especially as the co-main event on Cinco de Mayo weekend. It’s hard to put into words. I’m motivated, focused and getting ready for May 4.

“The welterweight division is stacked. We have a really exciting welterweight title fight opening the card with Stanionis and Maestre, who are both tremendous fighters. I have to make sure that I handle business with Fabian first.

“If everything goes our way, then I want those big unification fights and whoever is the best in the division. I’ve always taken on the best opponents and I’m going to continue to do that.

“I’m excited about what’s in front of me. There’s a lot of things moving around at welterweight and opportunities for new champions. By the end of the year, there will be even more big fights and I plan on being in them.

“I know that Fabian will bring that same focus and drive that his brother Marcos did to these big fights. He’s got a big opportunity and I know he’s not taking this fight lightly. He’s going to come with everything. I’m expecting a hard fight and I’m preparing myself for a brutal 12 rounds.

“Maidana is motivated and hungry, but I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure that my hand is raised.

“I’m very motivated because it’s about more than just me now. I’m getting ready to have a daughter and it’s a different kind of motivation. I can’t wait to give everyone another great show.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“I’ve always made my own way. I never see myself as in the shadow of anybody. I’m thankful to have this opportunity on this great card. I’m ready to showcase my skills on May 4.

“I want to show up and show out on May 4. I’m coming to win this fight and bring that belt home to Argentina.

“In order to win big fights, you have to throw a lot of punches. That’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to fight with all my heart and all my grit. I’ll show that the Maidana name is still on top.

“This is a great card and I’m happy to be on it. This is a huge night for boxing and I can’t wait to show how much this means to me when I get in the ring on May 4.

“My brother was a boxing great and I admire him. But I forge my own way, proudly so. I’m going to get into the ring on May 4 and deliver a battle that people will enjoy. That’s how I make my own name.

“I can’t tell you how it’s going to end, but it’s going to be a war and the best man will have his hand raised.

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m very blessed to have this opportunity. I’m just happy to be able to get back in the ring. The fight is here and I’m getting ready and prepared to be at my best.

“I’m just focused on hard work and discipline and doing whatever I need to be at the top of my game. It’s about who wants it more and who’s hungrier. You have to go out there and take it.

“Everyone knows I love to mix it up and get in there and work my inside game. I have to do whatever it takes to win the fight and make it look impressive. I’ll adapt to Jessie and work my way around what he does. It’s gonna be fireworks.

“I’ve been waiting for [WBC Featherweight World Champion] Rey Vargas and I’ve been patient. I took this opportunity because I’ve been itching to fight. I just want to fight the best of the best. If Vargas wants to fight this year, then let’s get it. If not, I’d love to rematch Stephen Fulton. I just want to keep delivering Fight of the Year candidates.

“Jessie is a former world champion for a reason. He’s been in with the best of the best and that’s all I could ask for. He’s someone who I don’t have to look for in the ring and that’s gonna deliver fireworks for the fans.

“It’s going to be a great Mexican atmosphere on May 4 and I know that I’ll have my people back home supporting me.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I feel great right now. I’ve been putting in the work and staying in the gym. This is a great opportunity. I’m thankful to Brandon for accepting the fight. It’s gonna be a great show.

“Of course I have an edge in experience. I’ve been in there with some great fighters. I’ve been boxing for a long time and I know Brandon has put in his work as well. I don’t overlook anybody. I’m just focused on showing the world what I’m truly about.

“Last time I had the blonde hair I became world champion. I’m just ready to get back in there and show everybody what I’m about.

“A win like this is what’s been on my mind. That’s why I’m in the gym focused and working hard. Brandon comes to fight and he puts on a great show, just like I do. We both throw a lot of punches and I know on May 4 that winning this title will be huge for me.

“I know Brandon comes to fight. He’s a come-forward fighter who throws a lot of punches. He comes in great shape every time. We watch tapes and we know he’s a good fighter like I am. We’re focused on showcasing what we’ve got. I have a lot left in my tank and I’m gonna show it on May 4. This is a great matchup for my style.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a long time and I’m very happy to be back in the ring. It’s amazing to fight on this big card on Cinco de Mayo weekend. I can’t really describe how great I feel. I know Maestre well and I know there will be fireworks on May 4.

“It was very frustrating to deal with fights that fell out. I just wanted to fight. But I stayed disciplined and trained hard the whole time. I just believed that I would get my opportunity eventually.

“On May 4 I will show that I’m back and put on a great performance like I always do. When you fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend, you have to come with something special.

“I would love a unification fight. It would be great to fight the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana, and then keep collecting belts.

“I train very hard and I’ve never been as hungry to get a win. Every day I get asked when I’m back in the ring, and now I’m ready to have my country behind me. We’re gonna give the fans a great fight.

“I won’t have ring rust because I live the life of an athlete. I’m a very disciplined fighter and I’m in really good shape. I’ve just been waiting for the call and now here we are.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“It is a privilege to fight against a champion like Stanionis. This is the fight that I’ve wanted for a long time and now things have come full circle. We had a very tough close fight in the amateurs and I’m looking forward to seeing what he has now.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity to fight on this important card. I’m having a tremendous training camp and I can’t wait to get into the ring.

“Unification is the goal. That’s always been my dream. Winning the title and unifying are next on my list and I’m ready to do it against anyone.

“We didn’t get a chance to fight each other at the Rio Olympics, so I’m truly looking forward to the opportunity to fight him in the pros.

“This is going to be a great battle. I’m not worried about the age difference. Look what my fellow Venezuelan Ismael Barroso did and what I did in my last fight. We’re going to keep pushing forward.”

# # #

THREE ACTION-PACKED TITLE SHOWDOWNS HIGHLIGHT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA PBC PAY-PER-VIEW ON PRIME VIDEO UNDERCARD SATURDAY, MAY 4 FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – April 9, 2024 – Three high-stakes matchups featuring some of the sport’s most exciting fighters will round out a stacked pay-per-view lineup as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions.

“Saturday, May 4 will deliver a worthy pay-per-view undercard of toe-to-toe clashes leading up to the all-Mexico headlining clash between Canelo Álvarez and Jaime Munguia,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Cinco de Mayo weekend is a crown jewel in the boxing calendar, and with this jam-packed lineup of action fighters entering the ring at T-Mobile Arena, fans are in for non-stop entertainment once again on this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.”

**MARIO BARRIOS VS. FABIAN MAIDANA**

The 12-round co-main event will see Mario “El Azteca” Barrios make the first defense of his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana, the younger brother of legendary action fighter Marcos who will look to add to his family legacy in his first world title opportunity.

A former world champion at 140-pounds, Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing and stamped his place as a top 147-pounder by dropping Yordenis Ugas twice last September on his way to a unanimous decision. The 28-year-old hails from San Antonio, Texas and now trains in Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. He won a 140-pound world championship in September 2019, using his aggressive style to edge out Batyr Akhmedov and earn a unanimous decision. Barrios lost the super lightweight title in another action packed, highly competitive bout, as he was defeated by three-division and five-time world champion Gervonta Davis in June 2021.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ring for the co-main event of the biggest Mexican fight in history and during Cinco de Mayo weekend,” said Barrios. “Fabián Maidana is a tough warrior like me, so the fans are definitely in for an exciting fight. Defending my title is priority number one, and I’m going to do it with intelligence and bad intentions. Everyone knows that when I step into the ring, I leave it all in there. This will be no different. On May 4, the fans can expect a Mexico vs. Argentina war.”

The 31-year-old Maidana (22-2, 16 KOs) enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak, including three 2023 triumphs highlighted by a unanimous decision victory over Israel Lopez in November. A native of Margarita, Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana hopes to follow in the footsteps of his older brother and former two-division champion Marcos. He’s fought professionally since 2014, following up a strong amateur career by winning his first 16 pro fights. He will return to fight stateside for the first time since 2019, after spending much of his early career fighting in the U.S., including a 2018 knockout of former title challenger Andrey Klimov.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on this card against a great champion like Mario Barrios,” said Maidana. “We come to win and give our best to the mecca of boxing, Las Vegas. The world knows my brother beat Floyd Mayweather on Cinco de Mayo, and I plan to do the same against Barrios. I’m fighting for my people in Argentina, and I’m coming to win.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. JESSIE MAGDALENO**

The pay-per-view lineup will also feature the return of former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa as he defends his Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 12-round bout against the former 122-pound world champion Jessie Magdaleno.

The 27-year-old Figueroa (24-1-1, 18 KOs) most recently picked up his interim title in his last bout, beating former world champion Mark Magsayo via unanimous decision in a Fight of the Year candidate in March 2023. It was his second fight since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“I’ve been staying ready, just patiently waiting for my opportunity, and now I can’t wait to get back in the ring on May 4,” said Figueroa. “Magdaleno is a great fighter and he’s a former world champion for a reason. I know I have to be at my best. I’m just hungry to get back into the ring and keep boxing exciting with my fights and my fighting style.”

A Las Vegas-native, Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs) will look to rebound from a decision defeat in his last fight against current featherweight titlist Raymond Ford. Prior to the defeat, Magdaleno had put together four-straight victories since moving up to featherweight in 2019. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2016 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire, and successfully defended the title with a 2017 knockout of Adeilson Dos Santos. Magdaleno also comes from a boxing family, as his older brother Diego was a longtime contender, while his younger brother Marco also fought professionally.

“This fight is everything for me,” said Magdaleno. “There are people who think I’m an underdog against Figueroa. But I’d remind those people of one thing…I was an underdog when I became world champion for the first time, and I’m ready to do it again. On May 4 you will hear ‘and the new!’”

**EIMANTAS STANIONIS VS. GABRIEL MAESTRE**

A come-forward technician, the undefeated Eimantas Stanionis will make the first defense of his WBA Welterweight Title when he takes on fellow unbeaten Gabriel Maestre in a 12-round showdown that opens up the pay-per-view card.

Representing his native Kaunas, Lithuania, Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) has made the most of the promise he showed when turning pro after fighting for his country at the 2016 Olympic games. The 29-year-old captured his interim belt in his most recent outing, defeating the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev via a hard-fought decision in April 2022. Stanionis blasted through a slew of veteran welterweights on his way up the ladder, including a knockout of Justin DeLoach and a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring, I feel like a kid in a candy store who gets to choose any kind of candy he wants,” said Stanionis. “This is especially exciting for me because I am a big fan of Canelo Álvarez. I love watching his fights and as a kid, I dreamed of fighting on Cinco de Mayo in front of all those great Mexican fans. It motivates me even more to give them a great fight. I know that Gabriel Maestre is tough and has power. We fought in the amateurs and I know it’s a great matchup of styles. I’m going to bring the action and so will he. You can definitely expect fireworks on May 4.”

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (6-0-1, 5 KOs) delivered a dominant display last August as he blasted out the then-unbeaten rising prospect Travon Marshall in round two. His pro career has followed an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. He made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw in March 2022 and defeating former two-division champion Devon Alexander in April 2023.

“I’ve wanted to fight Stanionis for years and get revenge from our amateur match,” said Maestre. “It was a tough close fight and I’m ready to face him again for another war. We are ready for a great fight and to leave the ring with my hand raised. May 4 will be a historic day for me and Venezuela.”

# # #

Figueroa Decisions Magsayo to win Interim Featherweight Title

Brandon Figueroa won the WBC Interim Featherweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Mark Magsayo at The Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

In round four, Figueroa was cut over his right eye from an accidental headbutt.

In round eight, Magsayo was deducted a point for holding. In round 10, Figueroa was cut over his left eye due to another accidental headbutt. In round 11, he was deducted another point for holding.

Figueroa, 125.8 lbs of Weslaco, TX won by scores of 118-108 and 117-109 twice and is now 24-1-1. Magsayo, 126 lbs of the Philippines is 24-2.

Resendiz Stops Hurd in 10th

Armando Resnediz stopped former unified junior middleweight champion Jarrett Hurd in the 10th and final round of their middleweight bout.

The fight was a high-volume, high-contact fight that was stopped five seconds into the final round when Hurd’s lip was severely cut.

Resendiz, 162 lbs of Mexico is 13-1 with 10 knockouts. Hurd, 159.2 lbs of Accokeek, MD is 24-3.

Elijah Garcia Stops Vidal in Four

19 year-old Elijah Garcia stopped Amilcar Vidal in round four of their 10-round middleweight bout.

In round four, Garcia landed a huge flurry that started by a right hook on the ropes that sent off 13 unanswered punch that put Vidal down, and the bout was stopped at 2:17.

Garcia, 158.6 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 14-0 with 12 knockouts. Vidal, 159 lbs of Uruguay is 16-1.

Former world title challenger Terrell Gausha stopped Brandon Lynch in round nine of their 10-round super welterweight bout.

In round nine, Gausha dropped Lynch with a short right. Seconds later, it was another right that put Lynch down again. Gausha finished off lynch with a series of overhand rights that put Lynch down for a third and final time, and the fight was stopped at 50 seconds.

Gausha, 156.6 lbs of Encino, CA is 23-3-1 with 10 knockouts. Lynch, 155.6 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 12-2-1.

Travon Marshall remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Justin DeLoach Dock in a scheduled eight-round welterweight fight.

In round three, Marshall dropped Dock with a hard right hand. Dock got to his feet, but the fight was called at 2:07.

Marshall, 145.6 lbs of Capitol Heights, MD is now 8-0 with seven knockouts. Dock, 147 lbs of Augusta, GA is 19-6.

In round one, Dock began to bleed from the nose.

Samuel Teah won a eight-round unanimous decision over Enriko Gogokhia in a junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Teah scored a knockdown when Gogokhia was off balance and Teah landed a right hand that that put Gogokhia on the canvas.

In round six, Teah started to swell under his left eye.

Teah, 141.6 lbs of Philadephia won by scores of 79-72 and 78-73 twice and is now 19-6-1. Gogokhia, 143 lbs of Woodland Hills, CA is 13-1-2.

Daniel Blancas remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Kynndale Prather in a scheduled four-round super middleweight bout.

In round one, Blancas dropped Prather with a hard combination in the corner. Prather dropped Prather again in the round with another flurry and the bout was stopped.

Blancas, 168.2 lbs of Milwaukee, WI is 5-0 with three knockouts Prather, 165.4 lbs of Kansas City, KS is 3-16.

FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO OFFICIAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS

WBC Featherweight Title (Interim) – 12 Rounds

Brandon Figueroa – 125.8 lbs.

Mark Magsayo – 126 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Gary Ritter (Okla.), Fernando Villarreal (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Jarrett Hurd – 159.2 lbs.

Armando Reséndiz – 161 lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Edward Hernandez, Sr. (Calif.), Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.)

Note: Contracted weight is 162 lbs.

Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Amilcar Vidal – 159 lbs.

Elijah Garcia – 158.6 lbs.

Referee: Jack Reiss; Judges: Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Fernando Villarreal (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN

Stream Live at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Terrell Gausha – 156.6 lbs.

Brandyn Lynch – 155.6 lbs.

Note: Contracted weight is 157 lbs.

Referee: Jerry Cantu; Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Edward Hernandez, Sr. (Calif.), Gary Ritter (Okla.)

Welterweight Bout – Eight Rounds

Travon Marshall – 145.6 lbs.

Justin DeLoach Dock – 147 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Fernando Villarreal (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

Super Lightweight Bout – 8/10 Rounds

Enriko Gogokhia – 143 lbs.

Samuel Teah – 141.6 lbs.

Note: Contracted weight is 143 lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy^® award winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy, son of Hall of Fame boxing announcer Don Dunphy, directing. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst.

The SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, who also serves as an analyst alongside Marquez on SHOBOX.

# # #

ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO

Figueroa vs. Magsayo will see a matchup of all-action, high-powered former world champions, as hard-hitting star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa meets Filipino sensation Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo for the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title on Saturday, March 4 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif., topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature the return of former unified world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd as he takes on the power-punching Armando Reséndiz in the 10-round middleweight co-main event. Kicking off the telecast is an intriguing clash of unbeaten young middleweights as Amilcar Vidal and Elijah García meet in a 10-round attraction.

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

LIVE VIDEO: Brandon Figueroa vs. Mark Magsayo: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. MARK MAGSAYO FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ONTARIO, CALIF. – March 2, 2023 – Hard-hitting former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo went face-to-face at Thursday’s final press conference and promised fireworks when they meet for the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title this Saturday, March 4 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif. headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The press conference also featured former unified world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd and power-punching Armando Reséndiz, who meet in the 10-round middleweight co-main event, plus unbeaten young middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Elijah García, who square off in the 10-round SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^®telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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

Figueroa and Magsayo will each look to earn a fight for the WBC Featherweight World Championship currently held by Rey Vargas with a statement victory on Saturday. For Figueroa, the former WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion, it presents an opportunity to become a two-division titlist, while Magsayo will be looking to reclaim the featherweight belt that he lost to Vargas via decision in his last fight.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Ontario Airport:

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I have all the abilities. Everyone knows that I love to fight. I want to dominate my opponent, break them down and get them out of there. I train really hard to go in there and do what I do best.

“I’m going to do anything it takes to win this fight. If I have to box, I’ll box. But if I can hurt him on the inside, I’ll get in there with body shots. I can beat him any way I have to.

“Everyone is going to see that I’m coming with everything. I have to make a big statement at 126 and leave my mark. I’m trying to win more titles and show I’m one of the best.

“Just expect a great fight. I hit a lot harder than Julio Ceja. Especially now that I’m at 126-pounds. I’m strong and powerful. Everybody is going to be surprised by what they see.

“I had a great training camp working in Las Vegas. I have an amazing team and I have my family supporting me. I can’t wait to give everyone a great show. I’m going to mix it up with Mark. I have nothing but respect for him, but I’m ready.

“This is going to be early ‘Spring Break’ action. We’re both coming to fight and coming to win. This is what boxing is all about. We’re facing the best of the best. Now we just have to put it all together on Saturday night and give the fans a great show.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“This is different than my last fight. Rey Vargas likes to run, but Figueroa comes to fight. It’s a big difference and it’s going to be much more exciting.

“Fans can expect that this is going to be a real fight. Neither of us are backing down. We’re coming forward. I know that he fights from different stances, but we’re prepared for it. We’ve been working hard since October for this.

“Whatever happens in the fight, we’re ready for it. I’ve fought a lot of good fighters and big punchers. I can take it, because I want to win.

“I’m not a big talker, but there’s going to be a knockdown in this fight. We’re ready to take advantage.

“I’m very excited for this fight. It’s a good opportunity to get back to a world title fight. I’ve learned from my mistakes and I’m ready to go.

“I guarantee this is going to be a great fight. We’re both prepared, so let’s see what happens on Saturday night. The winner of this fight is definitely the fans.”

JARRETT HURD

“We’ve been staying ready. I had a lot of wars in the beginning of my career, so I think that a break wasn’t such a bad thing. I’ve been in some tough fights and I took the time to get myself together.

“Training outside of my hometown just wasn’t a great thing for me. I had all my success there in training. Now I’m training with my new coach Andrew Council back in Maryland. We’re a great match and he allows me to be myself.

“I almost feel like I’m back to where I was before I was unified world champion. I’m back to the guy that people weren’t really believing in. I’m back to being the guy who has to go out there and prove every time why I was where I was. I had to go out there and beat guys that nobody thought I would beat. This time off made me fall back in love with the sport.

“Middleweight is where I’m going to stay at. They’re going to be saying that ‘Swift’ is back after Saturday. I’m going to shake off the cobwebs, but I’m going out there to dominate.

“I know he’s coming with the Mexican style, but they all say I have the Mexican style too. So it’s going to be a war for sure.”

ARMANDO RESENDIZ

“Jarrett has earned his place and I consider him a great fighter. But I know that I also have to earn my own place. I want to solidify myself in this sport just like Jarrett has in the past. I have to work hard to do it.

“I was always ready for a big fight. My coach Manny Robles and I have been tirelessly going through the lessons I had to learn from my past fights. I’m Mexican, so it’s in my blood to be ready for the pressure that Hurd is going to bring.

“I’m ready for war and I’m ready to fight at a distance. I’m not interested in predictions, but I’ve had amazing preparation for this fight and I’m ready to show what I’m all about.

“I want to give everyone a great show. Whatever happens, happens. I’m going to go with the flow, rely on my training, and get my hand raised at the end of the night.”

AMILCAR VIDAL

“He better be ready because every fight that I’m in is a dream come true for me and I’m looking to make more dreams in the future.

“I had an awesome training camp with Bob Santos as my coach and he’s prepared me really well. I’m ready to send a message of my own on Saturday.

“I want Uruguayans everywhere to know that I’ll do my best to make them proud. I’ve had to sacrifice a lot lately being away from my family, but I know that I can keep improving and go after what I want. My goal is to become the first ever world champion from Uruguay.

“I wanted to be focused on only working hard and giving the best that I could. I was well aware of what I was getting into working with Bob Santos. We’ve gelled really well and everyone is going to see the fruits of our labor on Saturday night. That’s for sure.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“I wouldn’t say this is a step up too soon. This is something we’ve been preparing to do for years. The whole plan turning pro was to win fights. I’m 19-years-old and we’re aiming to fight for a world title in the next few years. If this is the route I have to go, then that’s what it’s gonna be.

“I want everybody to know that I’m not an average 19-year-old. You don’t see 19-year-olds taking these kinds of fights. I’m here to get the win in a fashionable way.

“I’m not a big talker. I’ll let my performance speak for itself. He’s a good opponent and I’m sure he had a good training camp. But he’s not the only one. I’m more than prepared.”

# # #

ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO

LIVE VIDEO: Brandon Figueroa vs. Mark Magsayo: Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

LOADED THREE-BOUT SHOWTIME^® BOXING COUNTDOWN SHOW TO STREAM LIVE THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 4 AT 6:30 PM ET/3:30 PM PT

ONTARIO, CALIF. – March 2, 2023 – A jam-packed lineup featuring a former title challenger and U.S. Olympian, a top prospect in his toughest test to date and an emerging unbeaten super lightweight will highlight the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN live streaming presentation this Saturday, March 4 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif.

Super welterweight contender Terrell Gausha will top the action in a 10-round showdown against once-beaten Brandyn Lynch that streams live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. The lineup kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT and is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell.

Also featured in the ring will be sensational rising prospect Travon Marshall stepping up in competition to face the veteran Justin DeLoach Dock in an eight-round welterweight clash, plus unbeaten super lightweight Enriko Gogogkhia duels Samuel Teah in the 8/10-round opener.

The live streaming fights will precede the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT headlined by all-action former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo meeting for the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title.

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

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (22-3-1, 11 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif. The 35-year-old has faced tough competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champion Erislandy Lara and top contender Erickson Lubin. Following a KO of Jamontay Clark in March 2021, Gausha most recently lost a decision to Tim Tszyu last year after dropping Tszyu in round one. He will take on the 31-year-old Lynch (12-1-1, 9 KOs), a native of New Jersey who now resides in Los Angeles. Lynch is unbeaten since after his third pro fight, having avenged his only other blemish by winning a unanimous decision over Marcos Hernandez in May 2022 following a draw in their first matchup.

At just 22-years-old, Marshall (7-0, 6 KOs) has quickly shown the skill, power and poise to become a highly regarded prospect in just seven fights. Born in Landover, Md., and now fighting out of Capitol Heights, Md., Marshall is trained by former contender Andrew Council and made a strong 2023 debut in January by stopping Shawn West in one round. He will be opposed by Augusta, Georgia’s DeLoach Dock (19-5, 10 KOs), a veteran who appeared on SHOBOX^® and owns victories over previously unbeaten fighters Domonique Dolton, Livan Navarro, Junior Castillo and Dillon Cook. He’s faced top competition at 154 and 147 pounds, having battled former unified champion Jeison Rosario and most recently welterweight contender Eimantas Stanionis in November 2020.

Gogokhia (13-0-2, 8 KOs) will return to the ring after two 2022 clashes against fellow unbeaten Kent Cruz that both ended in draws. A 31-year-old former kickboxing pro, Gogokhia originally hails from Zigdidi, Georgia and now resides stateside in Woodland Hills, Calif. He takes on Liberia’s Teah (18-4-1, 8 KOs), who most recently scored a first-round knockout of Larry Fryers in September 2019. Now residing in Philadelphia, Teah, who has competed on SHOBOX, owns victories over current 130-pound world champion O’Shaquie Foster and super lightweight contender Kenneth Sims Jr.

The non-televised undercard will also include Dallas-native Miguel Hernandez (6-0, 6 KOs) in a six-round middleweight fight taking on Dario Guerrero (1-3-1) and unbeaten featherweight Albert Gonzalez (3-0, 1 KO) facing Joseph Cruz (3-5, 1 KO) in a six-round showdown.

Rounding out the action is undefeated lightweight prospect Anthony Cuba in a six-round lightweight duel against Florida’s Darel Harris and unbeaten super middleweight prospect Daniel Blancas battling Kansas’ Kynndale Prather in a four-round attraction.

# # #

ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO

BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. MARK MAGSAYO VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

ONTARIO, CALIF. – February 15, 2023 – All-action former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo previewed their showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title during a virtual press conference Wednesday before they step into the ring on Saturday, March 4 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif., topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former unified world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd return to action against the power-punching Armando Reséndiz in the 10-round middleweight co-main event, while unbeaten young middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia meet in a 10-round showdown that kicks off the telecast.

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

Figueroa and Magsayo will each look to move one step closer to regaining championship status by capturing the interim 126-pound title on March 4. Figueroa debuted at featherweight with a scintillating knockout last July after an impressive run at 122-pounds, while Magsayo looks to bounce back after dropping the WBC Featherweight World Championship via split decision against Rey Vargas on that same card in July.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“[Mark] Magsayo is an amazing fighter and I expect a lot from him. I’ve been in Las Vegas for over a month and things are going great. Magsayo is a strong fighter, but I’m a strong fighter as well. I have what it takes to take this fight right to him and show the world that I have the same power at featherweight.

“Everyone knows that I come to fight. Come March 4, everyone is going to see what kind of fighter I am at 126-pounds.

“I know exactly what I’m doing when I fight inside the pocket. When I’m inside, I’m really comfortable and I know how to work. I can let my body shots off from there. We’ve worked on a lot of things though, because I know Magsayo is a heavy hitter like me.

“As fans expected from Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez, this is going to be an amazing fight. We both have the heart of a lion and we’re both trying to become champions again. I won’t let anyone get in my way. I’m coming out of the ring as a champion.

“I’ve been in there with a lot of world champions and great fighters. We both fought Julio Ceja, and only Magsayo got knocked down. I was able to handle the power. He didn’t make me buckle, and he weighed in four pounds heavier than I did.

“This could be another Fight of the Year candidate. I’m ready to show off my skills. The fans love when I fight because they know it’s never boring. I want to fight the best of the best and keep proving to everyone that I belong at this level.

“We’ve been focused on Magsayo and we’ve seen that he was frustrated and impatient against Rey Vargas. We’re learning from it and preparing to take advantage of it.

“People have been saying they’re going to knock me out since the start of my career. They can say what they want about my style, but I’m still here. And I’m not here by the skin of my teeth. I work hard. Come fight night, he’ll find out if I’m easy to knock out or not.

“I expected Stephen Fulton Jr., to not take the rematch with me. My job is to go out there and give a spectacular fight for the fans. I do what I do best, and that’s fight. I do feel like the rematch will happen in the future, it’s just a matter of time.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“The winner of this fight is going to be the fans. I’m coming back stronger than ever.

“I’ve been training since October for this fight and it’s been great. I’ve been doing a lot of rounds in sparring. This is going to be a great fight.

“I learned from my last fight that I needed to adjust for a fighter with a reach advantage like Rey Vargas. I really thought I won the fight, but I respect the judges. I’m coming to use my power and damage and hit Figueroa hard.

“I want to thank Freddie Roach for everything I learned from him. Now having Marvin Somodio as my trainer. He is a great trainer and we understand each other.

“I guarantee that this is going to be a great fight. [Brandon] Figueroa is strong and always comes forward. But I’m strong too and that’s going to make this fight one you don’t want to miss.

“If I get the opportunity to fight Vargas again, and I win on March 4, I’ll be ready. If he wants to come back down in weight, I’ll jump at the opportunity to fight him.

“I’m hungrier than ever. I’ve always been hungry, but I know that I need to win this fight. This is my chance to become a champion again.

“It’s going to be a great night. Southern California has amazing fight fans. We’re both exciting fighters and everyone knows that they’re going to want to be at the edge of their seats for this one.

“I’ve been smarter in training and paying more attention to the details. I’m going to add more defense and make sure that I’m always training smartly. I almost won that last fight, so there are just small adjustments that needed to be made.

“I’ve come back stronger for this fight. I learned a lot from my last fight. I’m very thankful to have an opportunity like this to show everyone that I’m a better fighter now.”

# # #

ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO

ALL-ACTION FORMER WORLD CHAMPIONS BRANDON FIGUEROA AND MARK MAGSAYO SQUARE OFF FOR VACANT INTERIM 126-POUND TITLE ON SATURDAY, MARCH 4 LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT

ONTARIO, CALIF. – January 31, 2023 – In a matchup of all-action, high-powered former world champions, hard-hitting star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa will meet Filipino sensation Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo for the vacant Interim WBC Featherweight Title on Saturday, March 4 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif. topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature the return of former unified world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd as he takes on the power-punching Armando Reséndiz in the 10-round middleweight co-main event. Kicking off the telecast is an intriguing clash of unbeaten young middleweights as Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia meet in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Wednesday, February 1 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

“Saturday, March 4 will be headlined by an explosive clash of exciting styles, as Brandon Figueroa and Mark Magsayo are sure to go toe-to-toe to secure their standing in the featherweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Brandon looked spectacular in his featherweight debut last July, and Magsayo has the opportunity to regain his status after losing his title in a close fight last time out. With another certified action fighter in Jarrett Hurd stepping into the ring in the co-main event against the up-and-coming Armando Reséndiz, plus hungry young middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia in the TV opener, the stage is set for a thrilling night live on SHOWTIME and at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.”

The 26-year-old Figueroa (22-1-1, 17 KOs) was dynamic in his 126-pound debut, swarming and dominating Carlos Castro on his way to a sixth-round TKO on SHOWTIME in July 2021. The bout was his first since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash on SHOWTIME prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC lightweight world championship.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring to do what I love,” said Figueroa. “I want to fight the best, so I’m very motivated to be up against a former champion at featherweight like Magsayo. I’m confident that we’re going to give the fans a great fight, because neither of us like to take a step back. This is my chance to really show what I’m capable of at 126 pounds and I’m just eager to dominate and prove it to the world.”

The Philippines’ Magsayo (24-1, 16 KOs) became the latest champion from the boxing-rich nation in January 2022 when he outpointed boxing’s then longest-reigning male world champion Gary Russell Jr. to capture the 126-pound title on SHOWTIME. Magsayo will look to move closer to regaining that title on March 4, after he lost a narrow split-decision to Rey Vargas last July, despite dropping Vargas in round nine. The 27-year-old earned his first title opportunity by knocking out former champion Julio Ceja in the 10^th round of a fight he trailed on the scorecards in August 2021. Magsayo is trained by Freddie Roach in Southern California and owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Ramiro Robles, in addition to a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

“Figueroa and I both like to move forward, so everyone knows exactly what kind of fight this will be,” said Magsayo. “My goals are to give the fans the action they love and to regain my place in this division. I’m ready to face anyone they put in front of me. This is a true Mexican vs. Filipino style matchup, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring to perform once again.”

The 32-year-old Hurd (24-2, 16 KOs) unified the WBA and IBF 154-pound titles in 2018, dropping longtime champion Erislandy Lara in the final round to win a close decision in a fight that was the consensus 2018 Fight of the Year. The Accokeek, Md., native would go on to lose the titles in one of 2019’s best fights, dropping a decision to Julian Williams. Hurd first became champion in February 2017 when he stopped former champion Tony Harrison in the ninth round, before defending the title against another former champion in Austin Trout. Hurd will return to the ring having most recently dropped a narrow split-decision against tricky veteran Luis Arias in June 2021.

“Y’all must’ve forgot, but I’m back to remind you what ‘Swift’ Jarrett Hurd is all about,” said Hurd. “I’m in a new weight class and I’m looking to dominate like I did at 154 pounds. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve been working on in the gym and display my talents on March 4. I know Reséndiz is going to make the most of this opportunity, but I’m ready to make a big statement of my own.”

Reséndiz (13-1, 9 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut in April 2021, entering the fight with an eight-bout knockout streak before earning a decision victory over Quilisto Madera. A 23-year-old native of Nayarit, Mexico, he now fights out of Los Angeles. After dropping a decision to veteran Marcos Hernandez in September 2021, he returned this October to dominate Heber Rondon on his way to a second-round stoppage.

“I’ve been preparing very hard to take full advantage of the opportunity that I have in this fight,” said Reséndiz. “I have a great team in my corner and I know that they are getting the best out of my abilities. We’re all working toward the same goal and it’s going to result in a great fight for the fans. I’m fighting for my Mexican people and I’m not going to let them down.”

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Vidal (16-0, 12 KOs) now fights out of Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. The 26-year-old put together an impressive streak between November 2019 and November 2020, defeating three previously unbeaten fighters in a row, as he knocked out Zach Prieto on SHOBOX: The New Generation^®, Leopoldo Reyna and Edward Ortiz. Vidal followed that up with a decision victory over veteran contender Immanuwel Aleem in July 2021 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, and has added three more triumphs since then, including most recently winning a unanimous decision over Gabriel Omar Diaz last July.

“I am very happy to be back on SHOWTIME for my fourth fight in the U.S.,” said Vidal. “I’ve already beaten two undefeated fighters in America and I’m confident this will be the third time I take another fighter’s ‘0’. I’m thankful to my new trainer Bob Santos and my whole team for this opportunity. I’m training in Las Vegas and looking forward to putting my punching power on full display.”

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, Garcia (13-0, 11 KOs) closed out 2022 in December with his fourth victory of the year, a second round KO of Cruse Stewart that streamed live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. The 19-year-old has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 establishing himself as a rising prospect by knocking out his first six opponents and five of his last six.

“This fight is going to be a gateway for me,” said Garcia. “This is a great matchup on a big stage, and that just means more eyes and attention on me. I’m only 19 and I’m taking on an older undefeated fighter with more fights than I have. That just shows what kind of fighter I am. A win is going to open a lot of doors for me and soon everyone is gonna know what I can do.”

# # #

About TOYOTA ARENA

Toyota Arena, located in Southern California, built and owned by the City of Ontario, managed by SMG Worldwide, continues to win awards for the best entertainment venue in the region. The 225,000 square foot venue can accommodate capacities up to 11,000 for concerts, family shows, and sporting competitions. The arena features 36 luxury suites located on two levels and a continuous concourse hosting a variety of refreshment stands, merchandise kiosks, a VIP club and other fan amenities. Toyota Arena is proud to be recognized for cleaning and disinfecting to a higher standard to keep our space clean and safe for occupancy with a GBAC Star Accreditation. Toyota Arena hosts a variety of sporting competitions, concerts, family shows, special events, graduation ceremonies and community activities as well as private events. The Arena is home to Ontario Reign – AHL Hockey Team, and Empire Strykers – MASL Soccer Team and the Ontario Clippers – G league basketball team. Toyota Arena is the biggest and most modern arena within the region, an area with nearly 5 million people. It is located in the City of Ontario, California, on a 37-acre parcel located between Haven Avenue and Milliken Avenue, Fourth Street and the I-10 Freeway. For more information visit Toyota-Arena.com

Vargas Takes Split Decision From Magsayo; Wins WBC Featherweight Title

Rey Vargas became a two-division world champion as he won a hotly contested 12-round split decision over Mark Magsayo in a battle of undefeated fighters at The Alamodome in San Antonio.

It was a very close fight with each guy having success at different part of the fights.

In round seven, Vargas was cut over the left eye from an accidental headbutt. In round nine, Magsayo was able to send Vargas to the canvas as he landed a hard counter right hand. Magsayo was not able to capitalize and he let Vargas off the hook.

Vargas landed 196 of 667 punches; Magsayo was 132 of 451.

Vargas, 125.5 lbs of Otumbia, MEX won by scores 115-112 twice with Magsayo winning a card 114-113. Vargas is now 36-0. Magsayo, 125.5 lbs of The Philippines is 24-1.

“I’m at a loss of words,” said an emotional Vargas post-fight. “I worked hard for this. I want to thank God, my family, my trainer Nacho Beristain. The first title I won, I enjoyed it greatly, but this one is special. This win is for me.”

“It’s his today, no matter what, I’ll come back stronger, I’m disappointed but I did my best,” said Magsayo.

“I just kept moving forward and shrugging him off no matter what was happening,” said Vargas. “All that mattered for me was coming out with the victory in the end.”

“It wasn’t a power punch that got me,” said Vargas. “It was more of something that happened because of how I was moving. We were able to recover and come back strong.”

“When I had him down, the punch was straight, he did his job in the ring, running,” said Magsayo. “I applied the pressure and did what we trained for in the gym, but he was taller and he’s the man today.”

“It was a good, enjoyable fight,” said Vargas. “We felt comfortable throughout. I was sound technically. We were just going round-by-round and we got the result we expected.”

“I will rest and watch the fight and I’m going to train to fight again and will correct my mistakes for the next time,” said Magsayo. “Thanks to all my fans in the Philippines. I did my best and will come back stronger.”

“Now I want the unification bout,” said Vargas. “I want to fight Leo Santa Cruz. We’ve already talked about it with my team and I’m ready.”

Figueroa Stops Castro in 6

Former super bantamweight champion, Brandon Figueroa moved up to featherweight and stopped Carlos Castro in a scheduled 12-round bout.

In round three, Figueroa dropped Castro with a hard flurry on the ropes. That flurry includes a hard left to the body and head. In round six, Figueroa turned Castro around and landed a huge barrage of punches on the ropes and the fight was stopped at 2:11.

Figueroa, 126 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 24-1-1 with 18 knockouts. Castro, 124.5 lbs of Fullerton, CA is 27-2.

“I know Carlos Casto is a crafty fighter,” said Figueroa. “I had to be patient. I knew how to put the pressure on him, after the barrage of punches, I got tired and had to step back. I knew he was hurt. and I had him, and I had to put more pressure on him. I caught him clean with a good looping left hand and I had him, I just put punches together and I dropped him.”

“Carlos Castro has a lot of heart, he’s a proven fighter in the ring and I knew it would be hard to get him out of there,” said Figueroa. “I hurt him, I was waiting for that shot to the body, once I caught him clean, I knew he was hurt. I put my punches together again.”

“I’m pretty proud of myself,” said Figueroa. “I know there’s a lot of work ahead of me, especially if I fight the winner of the main event. I have to study my fight and get back to the gym.”

Martin Stops Marinez in 10

Lightweight Frank Martin remained undefeated with a 10th round stoppage over Jackson Marinez.

In round nine, Martin dropped Marinez from a hard straight left. In round 10, Martin backed Marinez up and landed a booming right that made Marinez sit on the ropes and the fight was stopped at 30 seconds.

Martin, 137.5 lbs of Dallas, TX is 16-0 with 12 knockouts. Marinez, 138 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 19-3.

“I was ready to go the distance whether I got the knockout or not,” said Martin, who’s stablemate and promoter, unified welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr. watched his victory ringside and later told Jim Gray of SHOWTIME that he expects to face WBO titleholder Terence Crawford in a blockbuster welterweight undisputed championship fight later this year. “Me and Derrick James worked hard in the gym. It was just a matter of me being patient and not being anxious.”

“I felt great,” said Mariñez. “I was very comfortable inside the ring. It would absolutely have been a different result had I had more than eight days to prepare.”

“I’m just an accurate puncher,” said Martin. “We had to really stay on the outside of the hook, I was doubling the two and trying to come inside with the hook.”

“The knockdown in the ninth changed the tone of the fight,” said Mariñez. “Maybe I could have been more careful. These things happen in boxing, and you just gotta be ready to roll with the punches. He had power, and so did I.”

“I was on him once I had him hurt, I was hungry, he was in deep waters so I had to get him out of there,” said Martin. “I’m right there with those top guys at lightweight, sit me at the table with them, whenever, I’m ready. I’m going to sit down with my team and hopefully get something big. At the end of the day we’ve won them all.”

Ramon Cardenas won an 10-round unanimous decision over Mitchell Banquez in a bantamweight bout

Cardenas, 118 lbs of San Antonio, TX won by scores of 97-93 twice and 96-94 and is now is 21-1. Borquez, 117.5 lbs of Caracas, VEN is 20-2.

Rashidi Ellis remained undefeated by stopping late-replacement Jose Murrafo in a scheduled eight-round junior middleweight fight.

In round one, Murrafo walked into a right from Ellis that put Murrafo on the canvas. Ellis then landed a vicious combination that was punctuated by a left to the jaw that put Murrafo to deck. A follow-up left hook and right hand forced a referee stoppage.

Ellis, 153.5 lbs of Lynn, MA is 24-0 with 15 knockouts. Murrafo, 146.25 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 13-11-2.

AUDIO: Featherweight Carlos Castro talks Brandon Figueroa Showdown

VIDEO: Featherweight Carlos Castro talks Brandon Figueroa Showdown

BRANDON FIGUEROA TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

SAN ANTONIO, T.X. – June 29, 2022 – Former world champion and all-action fan-favorite Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa expects to showcase his power and speed when he moves up in weight and makes his 126-pound debut against Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“We’re looking to make a statement on July 9,” said Figueroa. “Me not worrying about squeezing to make 122 pounds and really killing myself at the end of camp just makes me more relaxed mentally. I feel fresher heading into this fight and I just can’t wait to showcase that.

“I’m going to be a lot stronger and more explosive. If people were impressed with my conditioning at 122, just imagine what it’s going to be like at 126. Everyone is going to see a better version of myself.”

After winning the WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship by becoming the first person to defeat Luis Nery in May 2021, Figueroa followed that fight up with a thrilling 122-pound unification clash against Stephen Fulton Jr. last November on SHOWTIME that was recognized as one of the best fights of the year. Although Figueroa lost a narrow majority decision in a fight that warranted a rematch, he stuck with his decision to move up in weight.

“The decision to move up in weight had been made way before the Fulton fight,” said Figueroa. “That has been in the works for a long time. We were just waiting for the right opportunity to move up. After the Fulton fight, I knew that I was going to move up no matter what happened in that fight.”

Figueroa still has his sights on a rematch with Fulton and says that it will be better for all involved when it happens at featherweight.

“I believe it will be better for both of us to do the rematch at 126 pounds,” said Figueroa. “The Fulton rematch is something that has to happen. It has to happen for the fans, for me and Fulton, and to give everyone another ‘Fight of the Year’.”

Although he was disappointed in the judges’ ruling in that memorable fight, Figueroa has been able to take positives from the experience and plans to use those improvements on July 9 and going forward.

“I learned a lot from the Fulton fight and grew a lot because of it,” said Figueroa. “I took the good from the bad and kept moving on. We went back to the drawing board and saw some things that we did like from that fight and saw places where we could improve. I’ve been working on adapting. I’ve learned to be a little more patient, more technical, to use my distance better and capitalize on my shots.”

For this fight, the Weslaco, Texas native has held his training camp in San Antonio, where he’s been able to receive sparring from fighters including super flyweight world champion Joshua Franco. He has also been training alongside his brother, former world champion Omar Figueroa Jr., a setup that has added to his motivation in camp.

“This is something that I’ve been dreaming of since I was a kid,” said Figueroa. “We’ve trained together in California before but being back closer to home and working alongside my brother is amazing. It’s us against the world. It’s a beautiful opportunity for our family to get even closer and be a unit together. This has been my favorite training camp so far.”

In his featherweight debut, Figueroa will take on the experienced Castro, who was unbeaten in his first 27 pro fights before dropping a split-decision to Luis Nery in February. Castro’s journey to fight night mirrors Figueroa’s in that they’re both coming off their first career defeats and are moving up in weight. For Figueroa, he believes this will only add to the excitement for everyone watching.

“Castro is a great fighter,” said Figueroa. “He’s patient and very technical. There are some things that I have to do to take that away from him and put the pressure on him, like I do so well. I know he’s going to come to fight with a lot to prove. We’re both coming off fresh losses and moving up in weight, so I know we’re stepping into that ring to make a statement.”

With a victory on July 9, Figueroa can move himself into a position to challenge the winner of the night’s main event between unbeaten WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark Magsayo and undefeated former world champion Rey Vargas. Figueroa offered up his thoughts on that fight and promised that no matter who he eventually faces, he’ll be ready to deliver another of his signature fan-friendly performances.

“The main event is going to be a good, close fight,” said Figueroa. “It just comes down to who’s smarter. If Magsayo puts the right pressure on, he can win. If Vargas keeps his distance well and boxes him, I feel like Vargas will win. It’s a matter of who the smarter fighter is and who adapts better in the ring.

“I think me fighting whoever wins the main event would be a very exciting fight. It would be fireworks. Every time I’m in the mix, I come to fight at 110%. I don’t back down. With either fighter, it would be an amazing night of boxing.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com. The Martin vs. Núñez bout is promoted in association with Man Down Promotions.

# # #

ABOUT MAGSAYO VS. VARGAS

Magsayo vs. Vargas will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo take on former world champion Rey Vargas in a battle of unbeatens that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa taking on Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator bout in the co-main event, plus the Derrick James-trained, unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin battles Panama’s power-punching Ricardo Núñez in the 10-round telecast opener.

Additional coverage will include a pair of bouts streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube channel beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The action will see unbeaten welterweight contender Rashidi Ellis facing Argentine Olympian Alberto Palmetta in a 10-round duel, plus San Antonio’s own Ramon Cardenas battling Venezuela’s Michell Banquez in a 10-round bantamweight attraction.

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

WBC FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION MARK MAGSAYO TAKES ON UNBEATEN FORMER CHAMPION REY VARGAS SATURDAY, JULY 9 FROM THE ALAMODOME IN SAN ANTONIO, TX. LIVE ON SHOWTIME® IN AN EVENT PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS

SAN ANTONIO, T.X. – June 21, 2022 – WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo will take on former world champion Rey Vargas in a battle of unbeatens that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa taking on Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus the Derrick James-trained, unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin battles Panama’s power-punching Ricardo Núñez in the 10-round telecast opener.

“Saturday, July 9 will be topped by a showdown between champions as the Philippines’ Mark Magsayo makes his first title defense against the unbeaten Mexican, Rey Vargas, who will be looking to become a two-division champion at Alamodome on July 9 in San Antonio,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This card will also see the return of one of the sport’s most exciting young stars, as all-action Brandon Figueroa steps back into the ring looking to make his mark in the featherweight division, beginning with a world title eliminator against the always tough Carlos Castro. Kicking off the action will be the highly-skilled rising lightweight contender, Frank Martin, in a tough test against the hard-hitting Ricardo Núñez.”

Additional coverage will include a pair of bouts streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The action will see unbeaten welterweight contender Rashidi Ellis facing Argentine Olympian Alberto Palmetta in a 10-round duel, plus San Antonio’s own Ramon Cardenas battling Venezuela’s Michell Banquez in a 10-round bantamweight attraction.

The Filipino sensation Magsayo (24-0, 16 KOs) fights out of Pasig City, Metro Manila by way of Los Angeles, Calif., and became the latest champion from the boxing-rich nation in January when he outpointed longtime champion Gary Russell Jr. to capture the 126-pound title on SHOWTIME. The 26-year-old earned the opportunity by knocking out former champion Julio Ceja in the 10^th round of a fight he trailed on the scorecards in August 2021. Magsayo is trained by Freddie Roach in Southern California and owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Ramiro Robles, in addition to a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

“I am very thankful to my team for giving me the opportunity to defend my title in San Antonio,” said Magsayo. “I’m excited to be fighting in the same venue where my idol Manny Pacquiao fought Marco Antonio Barrera. That was the first fight I ever saw and the reason I started boxing. We are preparing for a strong Mexican fighter in Rey Vargas. Everyone knows what the Philippines vs. Mexico boxing rivalry brings to the ring and I’m excited to display my talents for the boxing fans in Texas and watching around the world.”

The former WBC 122-pound world champion, Vargas (35-0, 22 KOs), returned from a layoff due to injury to score a near shutout decision victory over Leonardo Baez in his featherweight debut in November 2021 on the undercard of Canelo vs. Plant. The 31-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 Oscar Negrete, Ronny Rios and Azat Hovhannisyan. His fifth successful title defense came via unanimous decision over former world champion Tomoki Kameda in July 2019.

“This fight on July 9 will be a great battle against the Filipino warrior Mark Magsayo,” said Vargas, who trains under the tutelage of Hall of Fame trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristáin. “This is going to be exciting combat from start to finish. We know that he has great power, but we’ll be ready to counter that, and anything else he brings to the ring. This is going to be a magnificent fight and I can’t wait to step in there and compete.”

The 25-year-old Figueroa (22-1-1, 17 KOs) will debut at 126 pounds after dropping a 2021 Fight of the Year contender against Stephen Fulton Jr. in November on SHOWTIME, in which the two champions traded blows for 12 grueling rounds, eventually leading to what some observers thought was a controversial majority decision loss. Figueroa used his youth and relentless pressure to become the first person to defeat Luis Nery in their championship clash on SHOWTIME prior to the Fulton fight. A native of Weslaco, Texas, who has previously fought in San Antonio six times, Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the world title, joining his brother Omar Figueroa, who previously held the lightweight world championship.

“I’ve been waiting to get back in the ring to do what I love,” said Figueroa. “Carlos Castro is a great fighter and we both have to prove why we belong at the top of the 126-pound division. I can’t wait to fight in San Antonio in front of my fans, it’s really one of my favorite places to compete and I’m planning on giving everyone who comes out a great show like always.”

Castro (27-1, 12 KOs) was born in Sonora, Mexico and came to the U.S. as a child. Now living in Phoenix, Ariz., Castro most recently dropped a narrow split-decision against two-division champion Luis Nery in February, with one point on the cards ultimately holding Castro back from keeping his unbeaten record intact. The 28-year-old made his name as a 122-pound contender, but has also competed at featherweight, including a 10^th round TKO victory over veteran contender Oscar Escandon in August 2021.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ring,” said Castro. “I have some real business to handle against Figueroa on July 9. There’s no better fight for me to show that I’m back. I’m ready to show that I’m capable of being in the mix at the top of the division and to earn a shot at the title.”

The 27-year-old Martin (15-0, 11 KOs) rose up the lightweight rankings in 2021 with a pair of impressive victories before most recently delivering a New Year’s Day KO over Romero Duno. In 2021, Martin knocked out the previously unbeaten Jerry Perez in a dominating performance in April, before earning a unanimous decision over Ryan Kielczweski in August. Originally from Indianapolis, Ind., Martin now trains in the Dallas-area under the guidance of top trainer James alongside unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr.

“I’ve been training hard in Dallas and I’m just excited and ready to go,” said Martin. “Núñez is a boxer-puncher, so I expect him to mix it up with some fast combinations and to try and throw my movement off, but I’ll be ready for all of that. Fight fans are going to enjoy an action fight with this one. We’ve got the speed, power and athleticism to put on an exciting show on July 9.”

Representing La Chorrera, Panama, Núñez (23-3, 21 KOs) enters this fight with knockout victories in his last two fights, including most recently stopping Richard Solano in the first round in October 2021. The 28-year-old moved back up to lightweight for those two victories after challenging three-division champion Gervonta Davis in July 2019 for a 130-pound title. Núñez has fought professionally since 2010 and has a brother also named Ricardo who is a veteran pro fighter in the featherweight division.

“I’m very happy to be back in a big fight on July 9,” said Núñez. “You’re going to see a whole new fighter against Martin. I’m coming to fight and impose my style on my opponent. Martin is a good boxer who’s made it to a high level, but he still has to show what he’s made of. I’m going to give one hundred percent to stop his rise and be the first person to beat him.”

The 29-year-old Ellis (23-0, 14 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since October 2020, having earned a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Alexis Rocha in his last outing. Originally from Lynn, Mass., Ellis also owns a pair of victories over veteran contender Eddie Gomez, including a first-round knockout over Gomez in December 2016, before winning by unanimous decision in their 2019 rematch. He takes on the Buenos Aires, Argentina native Palmetta (17-1, 12 KOs), who represented his home country at the 2016 Olympics before turning pro in November 2016. The 32-year-old has won his last 11 fights, with 10 coming by stoppage, including most recently defeating Yeis Solano in October 2021.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring on July 9,” said Ellis. “I want to thank my whole team, and I can’t wait to deliver fireworks for everyone watching this fight. I’m looking to steal the show and I’m training hard to make sure I do just that. You definitely want to tune in and see what I’m going to do in this one.”

“This fight is very special because it is the same day as Argentinian Independence Day,” said Palmetta. “Four years ago, I made the decision to leave my home and travel to the United States to further my boxing career. I want to face the biggest opponents, so I can earn the opportunity to become a world champion. This fight against Ellis is the big step I’ve been looking for. On July 9, get ready, because I’m coming with hunger, hard work, and determination. It hasn’t been easy for me; I have fought through the pain and struggle, and because of it, I remain humble and more motivated than ever.”

San Antonio’s Cardenas (20-1, 10 KOs) will look to run his current winning streak to nine when he competes in front of his hometown crowd on July 9. The 26-year-old added a pair of victories to his resume in 2021, having most recently stopped Marvin Solano in three rounds last August. He will be opposed by the 31-year-old Banquez (20-1, 14 KOs), who is originally from Venezuela and now fights out of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.. Banquez had a successful U.S. debut in January, as he stopped the previously unbeaten Joahnys Argilagos in six rounds, building off of a 12-round decision over the previously unbeaten Prince Patel in July 2019.

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LIVE VIDEO: Brandon Figueroa vs. Stephen Fulton: Post-Fight Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

Fulton Decisions Figueroa in Classic War; Become Unified Super Bantamweight Champion

Stephen Fulton retained the WBO and captured the WBC Super Bantamweight titles with a 12-round majority decision over Brandon Figueroa in a Fight of the Year Candidate in a battle of undefeated champions at The Park Theater in Las Vegas.

The stood toe-to-toe for much of the fight with Figueroa pushing the action and Fulton countering effectively. Not much separated the two combatants as the waged a savage war that thrilled the crowd in attendance as well as viewing audience on SHOWTIME. Fulton seemed to rally in the later rounds and picked up the win by scores of 116-112 twice and 114-114.

Fulton, 121.75 lbs of Philadelphia is 20-0. Figueroa, 121.75 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 22-1-1.

Aleem Decisions Baez

Raeese Aleem kept his perfect record intact with a 10-round majority decision over Eduardo Baez in a super bantamweight bout.

In round six, Baez was cut on the forehead by an accidental headbutt.

Aleem, 121.75 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 19-0. Baez, 121.5 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 19-2-2.

Russell Decisions Santiago

Gary Antonio Russell remains undefeated with a 12-round majority decision over Alejandro Santiago in a bantamweight contest.

Russell, 117.5 lbs of Capitol Heights, Maryland won by scores of 96-94 twice and 96-94 and is now 19-0. Santiago, 118 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 24-3-5.

VIDEO: Brandon Figueroa vs. Stephen Fulton: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING

BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. STEPHEN FULTON JR. FINAL WEIGHTS

Super Bantamweight World Championship Unification Fight – 12 Rounds

Brandon Figueroa –121 ¾ lbs.

Stephen Fulton Jr. – 121 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Russell Mora; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Dave Moretti (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.)

Super Bantamweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Ra’eese Aleem – 121 ¾ lbs.

Eduardo Baez – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: Mike Ortega; Judges: Eric Cheek (Nev.), Max DeLuca (Calif.), Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.)

Bantamweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Gary Antonio Russell – 117 ½ lbs.

Alexandro Santiago – 118 lbs.

Referee: Allen Huggins; Judges: Lisa Giampa (Nev.), Steve Morrow (Calif.), Benoit Roussel (Canada)

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ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. FULTON

Figueroa vs. Fulton will see undefeated 122-pound world champions in a unification clash as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. battle in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes onMexico’s Alexandro Santiago in a 10-round showdown.

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

BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. STEPHEN FULTON JR. VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – November 23, 2021 – WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO 122-Pound World Champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. previewed their world title unification showdown during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they meet in the main event live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature top super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem taking on Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell duels Mexico’s Alexandro Santiago in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

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

Figueroa vs. Fulton has loomed as a potential showdown for several years prior to the two unbeaten fighters joining the world championship ranks with career-best performances in 2021. Fulton struck first, dominating then-unbeaten Angelo Leo to capture the WBO title in January, while Figueroa made his own statement in stopping two-division champion Luis Nery to capture the WBC strap in May.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m just happy it’s fight week finally. It’s been a long road with two training camps. Everything is going well and I’ve come back stronger than ever. We are days away from this huge fight and I feel like it’s going to be ‘Fight of the Year’. It’s going to steal the show. ]I’m coming with everything.

“It would mean everything to become a unified champion. I’m here to represent and to bring back another belt for my city and for my family. It would mean everything to me. That’s why I’ve been working really hard and I know once I accomplish that it would just be another dream come true.

“People are going to talk and underestimate me. They think I’m just going to go in there and “rock ‘em, sock ‘em robot”. But I’m very intelligent. That’s the reason why I’m undefeated. That’s the reason why I have a lot of knockouts. I’m a great finisher. I know how to put pressure on you. Once he gets hit with a big shot and feels my power, it’s going to totally change this fight.

“He’s wrong if he thinks he’s going to stop me inside nine rounds. I’m a fighter. Some people say that I have terrible defense, yet I’m still undefeated. I’m still knocking out world champions and former world champions. This will be no different. It’s going to be the same story as always.

“This fight is going to boil down to guts. To heart. Hard work. Conditioning. I feel like it’s going to take everything from both of us. I know we both have a lot to gain. There’s a lot at stake. We’re both in our primes. We’re ready to peak. He’s 27-years-old. I’m 24. We’re here doing it.

“I come to do my job. I come in to execute my game plan. A lot of people underestimated me against [Luis] Nery but my game plan was to go out there and dominate and do what I had to do, and I went and got him out of there. This time is no different. It’s the same story. People underestimate me so much that I don’t even care anymore. I know what my abilities are. My team knows my abilities and my potential. I know what I’m capable of inside the ring, even though I don’t look like a fighter. That’s my style. I just go out there and do what I have to do and have fun doing it. I’m excited to do it again.

“I think I have the power advantage. I always do. That’s the reason why I have the knockouts. My opponents feel as if I don’t have power before they get in there. But once they feel it, they feel it. I know how to work in those sneaky body shots. I know how to overwhelm them with power, speed and combinations. It’s all part of my arsenal and November 27 it’s all going to come together. All my hard work and everything I’ve been working towards; I’m going to let everything go.

“He’s a skillful fighter. He’s slick. He’s fast. We know that. Obviously, we just have to go in there and take those attributes away. Take nothing away from Stephen, he’s a great fighter. He’s at where he’s at for a reason. But we’ve studied him really well. Props to him for becoming a world champion and getting this far, but I feel like this is my time.

“I have to use my height and reach and just make sure I go in there with a game plan. I always go in there with three or four game plans. I know a lot of people say that I don’t use my height or my reach. But I feel like I do a good job using it on the inside. Sometimes I don’t care to use it on the outside, but this fight is going to take a little bit of everything, and I’ll have to make full use of my height, reach, power, size and everything that makes me the fighter I am.

“I’m just ready to get it on and represent Mexico, represent my city and everybody back home. I’m ready to make my family proud and I’m excited to get in there and leave everything in the ring. You guys will see who wants it more.”

STEPHEN FULTON JR.

“My resume is better [than Figueroa’s] and I feel comfortable saying that. I’ve taken risks since the beginning of my career. I’ve faced undefeated fighters that no one wanted to face. I’ve taken the harder road to get to this fight.

“This has been a great training camp. We’re ready to go. Everything is in motion and I’m just extremely prepared. I can’t wait to put on a great performance.

“Being unified champion would mean a lot to me. I can become the first unified super bantamweight champion from Philadelphia on Saturday night. This win means everything to me.

“People have yet to see the best of me. They’ve yet to see that I like to fight toe-to-toe. I just don’t think this fight is going to last that long. He has the power to wear you down, but I’m the kind of fighter who can overcome anything. I highly believe in my abilities and my intelligence.

“This is my first fight back with fans in two years. There’s so much excitement for it. I’ve been preparing for this fight since June and I don’t think it’s going the distance.

“I’m his biggest fight to date. I’m his biggest test. I’m not like any of the other fighters that he faced before. He knows that and everyone around him knows that. Just watch what I do when I have my back against the wall.

“This boils down to who wants it the most. The power, the strength and the speed can all die down during a fight. All that’s left is who wants it the most. This isn’t just about being unified champion, it’s about this man believing that he can beat me. That’s what motivates me.

“He doesn’t have any quit in him and I appreciate that. I hate quitters and I don’t have any quit in me either. He always fights his fight and applies pressure well. He knows how to use angles and he’s got to this point for a reason.

“I’m used to being in uncomfortable positions, but I’ve had great support from my team and family and friends and that will be with me on fight night.

“Figueroa is going to engage with me more than most of my past opponents have. Him fighting with the style he likes to use is going to bring out more of what I can do.

“I already know that I’m the top guy at 122-pounds. It’s just a matter of days until everyone will see that. I’m not focused on my position in the division or what’s at stake. I’m just focused on defeating an opponent who believes he can beat me.”

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ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. FULTON
Figueroa vs. Fulton will see undefeated 122-pound world champions in a unification clash as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. battle in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alexandro Santiago in a 10-round showdown.

Super Bantamweight Contender Aaron Alameda Takes on Mexico’s Angel Contreras Plus Unbeaten Super Lightweight Rock Myrthil Faces Kevin Johnson in Showdowns Topping Non-Televised Undercard on Saturday, November 27 in Premier Boxing Champions Event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (November 23, 2021) – Super bantamweight contender Aaron Alameda will square off against Mexico’s Angel Contreras in an eight-round battle, plus Mayweather Promotions stablemates duel as unbeaten Rock Myrthil faces Kevin Johnson in a 10-round super lightweight tilt, on the non-televised undercard this Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The event is headlined by undefeated super bantamweight world champions squaring off as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. meet in a title unification live on SHOWTIME® in the main event of the telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

The non-televised lineup will also see Reno, Nevada’s Kenny Davis Jr. (7-2-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round lightweight duel against McAllen, Texas-native Nelson Hampton (7-4, 4 KOs), the pro debut of 19-year-old Albert Gonzalez as he takes on Washington, D.C.’s Chamar Flowers (1-1) in a four-round featherweight bout and Macon, Georgia’s Mikhail Montgomery (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round featherweight fight.

The 28-year-old Alameda (25-2, 13 KOs) will look to return to form on November 27 after back-to-back defeats. Alameda was able to end Luis Nery’s knockout streak in September 2020, losing by decision in a vacant world title fight, and most recently dropped a narrow decision to former champion Angelo Leo in June. Prior to the Nery fight, the Sonora, Mexico native had back-to-back knockouts over Jordan Escobar and Breilor Teran. A pro since 2014, his previous action in the U.S. prior to his two most recent fights saw him earn a sixth-round knockout over Andre Wilson in 2016. He will be opposed by the 27-year-old Contreras (11-4-2, 6 KOs), who most recently scored an upset victory in August over previously unbeaten John Dato. The Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico native has fought three times in 2021, battling the undefeated Jalan Walker to a split-draw in April and losing a decision to Ramon Cardenas in February.

Fighting out of Los Angeles, California, the 29-year-old Myrthil (17-0, 13 KOs) discovered boxing at age 18, after his family relocated from Haiti to the United States. Following a stellar amateur career, Myrthil made his pro debut in January 2017 with a second-round TKO over Allan Varela in Tijuana, Mexico. In September 2019, he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Steele in Las Vegas. The performance caught the eye of Floyd Mayweather, who sat ringside for that bout and ultimately signed Myrthil to his Mayweather Promotions outfit. Most recently, Myrthil outpointed Johnny Rodriguez over eight rounds in February 2020. He will be facing the Detroit-native Johnson (9-2, 5 KOs), who now lives and trains in Las Vegas. The 29-year-old returns to action after defeating the previously unbeaten Luis Salazar by knockout in May. Johnson has fought professionally since 2016 and his two career defeats have come to then-unbeaten fighters Richardson Hitchins and Fazliddin Gaibnazarov.

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AUDIO: Stephen Fulton vs Brandon Figueroa Press Conference

VIDEO: Stephen Fulton vs Brandon Figueroa Press Conference

STEPHEN FULTON JR. AND RA’EESE ALEEM LAS VEGAS MEDIA ROUNDTABLE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – November 22, 2021 – Undefeated WBO 122-pound world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. and unbeaten top contender Ra’eese Aleem previewed their respective showdowns during a Las Vegas media roundtable on Saturday, before they enter the ring in separate attractions live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

Fulton will square off against WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion Brandon Figueroa in the main event, while Aleem battles Mexico’s Eduardo Báez in the co-main event of the telecast, which begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what Fulton and Aleem, who are both training in Las Vegas for Saturday’s matchups, had to say at the media roundtable this past weekend:

STEPHEN FULTON JR.

“When I fought out in Nevada during the amateurs, I knew I would be back here fighting in Las Vegas one day as a pro. This has a totally different feel to it but I’m just focused on getting the job done and winning.

“I feel like this is what I’m supposed to be doing right now. I’m here for a reason. I’m not going to let the bright lights get to me. I was made for this and I take that mindset into the ring.

“Once I turned pro, I was on the path to becoming world champion. I’ve won a world title in the division I turned pro in, and now I’m unifying in my first fight as champion. I want to keep pushing forward and become undisputed at this weight class.

“My ability to adjust and outthink Figueroa is going to be the difference. That’s not to mention my speed and underrated power. I know Figueroa is going to throw a lot of punches, but I’m going to make him miss and capitalize on his mistakes.

“Everyone has a different path and for me that’s been taking dangerous fights against undefeated opponents. That’s made me a better fighter. Maybe I shouldn’t have taken some of those fights, but now I’ve got this resume that can stack up against anybody.”

RA’EESE ALEEM

“I’m extremely excited to be back doing what I love to do and to be fighting on a big SHOWTIME card. I’ve been getting great sparring out here in Las Vegas and I’m absolutely ready for Saturday.

“I’ve been working on really taking my time in the ring. Even if I’m being aggressive, I’m still taking my time while doing that. If I had taken my time against Vic Pasillas in my last fight, I would have stopped him in the sixth round. I was pushing the pace when I didn’t have to.

“I would love to fight Stephen Fulton. I believe that I’m the best in the division and some people think that he’s the best. If he wins this fight and I win Saturday, that’s the fight I want next. I’m ready to make it happen.

“I just have to keep winning and make big statements in every fight. I’m going to keep earning more recognition. I’m just starting to show people who I really am and I can’t let up.”

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The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Báez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alejandro Barrios in a 10-round showdown.

RAEESE “THE BEAST” ALEEM FEELS LIKE MODERN DAY MARVIN HAGLER SAYS EVERYONE IS DUCKING HIM, WANTS WINNER OF FULTON VS. FIGUEROA

LAS VEGAS, NV (October 21, 2021) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated 122-pound fighter, Ra’eese “The Beast” Aleem (18-0, 12 KOs), ranked #1 by the WBA, might be the best super bantamweight in the world, but he wants to prove it.

“I feel like Marvin Hagler, none of these guys want to fight me,” said Aleem, who recently lost his WBA super bantamweight interim world title based around the rule change within the organization. “I am doing everything that is asked of me, I am taking fights for low money, high risk, and putting on exciting performances, yet the champions will not face or mention me. What do I have to do…call the senator of Michigan or Nevada, and to try to have them help me, because I am a prizefighter, and I want to fight the best.”

Aleem, who lost his belt, after the WBA consolidated their champions, saw himself as the odd man out in the round-robin tournament between Stephen Fulton and Brandon Figueroa, who are looking to unify two of the four titles in the division. Without that belt, Aleem, who was already having trouble getting fights, now is feeling as though it has gotten that much harder.

“I want the winner of Stephen Fulton versus Brandon Figueroa, I want the winner of Murodjon Akhmadaliev versus Ronny Rios…shoot if I can’t get these fights, I will move up to featherweight and fight the boogeyman of that division, Emanuel Navarrete, and if that doesn’t work I would gladly welcome Naoya Inoue to the 122 lbs. division as well,” continued Aleem. “In this era, oftentimes the fans are frustrated that fighters don’t call for the good fights, but I am calling out everyone in my division that has a belt. I’m ranked #1 by the WBA, yet no one is mentioning my name, let alone trying to fight me. I am very frustrated since I know the fans like my style, I’m not boring, and I want to fight the very best, I know I am better than all of them.”

In January of this year, Ra’eese Aleem scored a very impressive knockout against Vic Pasillas, dropping him four times before stopping him in the eleventh round. That was a win that turned a lot of heads on a Showtime Championship Boxing co-main event, with the headlining act being Stephen Fulton versus Angelo Leo. Yet, Aleem is now scheduled to return November 27th on a Showtime co-main event headlined by Stephen Fulton vs. Brandon Figueroa, taking place at the Park MGM in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“I am facing Eduardo Baez in my next fight, and he is a good fighter, but I view myself as a million-dollar fighter, and let’s be honest, these are not the type fights that the fans are interested in,” said a frustrated Aleem. “I respect Baez, and I know he is coming to fight, and I am happy to have a fight, but to get to where I see myself at, I need one of these big fights. I am in my prime right now, and I’m ready for my title shot.”

Aleem, originally from Muskegon, Michigan, moved to Las Vegas, Nevada years ago to chase his dream of being a pro boxer and a world champion.

“I have given up so much of my life just to have a chance at winning a world title, and now I’m fighting a guy that is not even ranked in the WBA,” Aleem concluded. “I just want the chance to fight for a world title because boxing is my life. Not unlike Hagler, if they cut my head open, they would find a big boxing glove in it, and now I just need someone with the conviction behind their belief in their skills with a belt to fight me. I feel like Vic Pasillas was the best fighter in the division and after I beat him, no one wants to fight me. I just want to let everyone at the PBC, and Showtime know that I’m hungry, and will guarantee all action fights when I step in the ring.”

UNBEATEN 122-POUND WORLD CHAMPIONS BRANDON FIGUEROA AND STEPHEN FULTON NOW SET TO MEET IN HIGHLY ANTICIPATED UNIFICATION FIGHT ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27

LAS VEGAS – September 16, 2021 – Undefeated 122-pound world champions are set for a unification clash as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. will battle in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

Figueroa and Fulton were originally scheduled to face each other on Saturday, September 18, before the fight was pushed back due to a positive COVID-19 test for Figueroa.

Previously purchased tickets will be honored for the rescheduled date with no action needed. Should the guest not be able to attend, a refund for the tickets can be requested through October 17, 2021. Once the refund window is closed, all sales are final.

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STEPHEN FULTON JR. MOVES TRAINING CAMP TO LAS VEGAS AHEAD OF SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE UNIFICATION BOUT SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 ON SHOWTIME®

LAS VEGAS (September 3, 2021) – With just over two weeks until his highly anticipated super bantamweight unification fight on SHOWTIME, undefeated WBO 122-pound world champion

Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. has relocated to Las Vegas to put the finishing touches on his summer-long training camp. Fulton Jr. will face WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event on Saturday, September 18 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

“I am trying to get used to everything in Vegas,” said Fulton Jr. “I wanted to get away from home, be away from everyone and get myself a little uncomfortable to finish up camp.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton Jr. (19-0, 8 KOs) is the city’s only world champion following a triumphant win over then-unbeaten Angelo Leo in January on SHOWTIME. This will mark the first title defense for Fulton and Figueroa, who have been on a collision course for many years and finally meet to determine the king of the 122-pound division.

“I don’t feel any extra pressure going into this fight,” added Fulton Jr. “I don’t know why people expect me to feel more pressure entering my first defense and this huge unification fight, but I don’t let any of that get to me. I know there are people doubting me and I can’t wait for them to watch what happens on September 18.”

The 24-year-old Figueroa (22-0-1, 17 KOs) captured his world title from former two-division champion Luis Nery via devastating seventh-round knockout in May on SHOWTIME. Immediately following his win, Fulton entered the ring for a face off with the newly minted champ which set up their September unification. Figueroa is well-known for his hard-charging style while Fulton Jr. is lauded for his boxing prowess, setting the stage for an excellent clash of styles.

“I feel like this is a classic boxer-brawler matchup, but I showed in my last fight that I can brawl too,” explained the 27-year-old champ. “He can’t become a pure boxer now though, it’s too late in the game to teach him that. I am more than prepared for him to come in and try to walk me down but if he has a different game plan, I have the adjustments ready.”

The fight marks Fulton’s first fight as a professional in Las Vegas, the site of boxing’s biggest title fights in history. Figueroa will make his second appearance in Vegas where he suffered his lone pro blemish – a split draw against Julio Ceja in 2019.

“This is my first professional fight in Las Vegas,” stated Fulton Jr. “I fought in Nevada as an amateur. I fought in the Junior Golden Gloves here and won the whole tournament.”

Trained in his hometown by coach Wahid Rahim, Fulton has adopted a new approach to his training camps when preparing for his last two fights.

“I trained alone for this camp and I feel like this is how it needs to be moving forward as a championship fighter,” added Fulton. “Due to the COVID situation, I just tried to stay away from everybody.

“I was locked down like this when training for the Angelo Leo fight, too. I like it better to be in the gym by myself or with less people. I like it better because I get to focus more on myself. I have the ring to myself; I have the bags to myself. You don’t have to worry about taking turns or waiting for anything when you are the main priority. You get your job done faster, easier, and more efficiently.

“I worked harder. I sparred more, I focused more on my endurance. The world will see September 18 on SHOWTIME.”

The three-fight boxing event will open SHOWTIME’s combat sports doubleheader on September 18. Immediately following the main event from Las Vegas, BELLATOR MMA will air live from San Jose, Calif. with a three-fight event headlined by light heavyweight contenders Phil Davis and Yoel Romero.

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

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UNBEATEN SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONS BRANDON FIGUEROA AND STEPHEN FULTON JR. MEET IN TITLE UNIFICATION SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 ON SHOWTIME

LAS VEGAS (September 2, 2021) – Undefeated 122-pound world champions will go toe-to-toe as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. meet in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, September 18 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will include undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alejandro Barrios in a 10-round showdown.

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

“This night of high-stakes action is headlined by two undefeated young stars in one of the most anticipated fights of the year.” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The winner of this fight will not only hold the mantle as the division’s best but will have a case as one of the top pound-for-pound rising stars in the sport. With Ra’eese Aleem and Gary Antonio Russell also on the card, the future of the sport takes centerstage on September 18.”

The three-fight boxing event will open SHOWTIME’s combat sports doubleheader on September 18. Immediately following the main event from Las Vegas, BELLATOR MMA will air live from San Jose, Calif., with a three-fight event headlined by light heavyweight contenders Phil Davis and Yoel Romero.

The 24-year-old Figueroa (22-0-1, 17 KOs) used his youth and relentless pressure to become the first person to defeat Nery in their championship clash on SHOWTIME. Figueroa’s body attack was the difference, as he was able to stand up against Nery’s offense and eventually overwhelm him to earn the knockout. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa added to his family’s legacy in capturing the world title, joining his brother Omar Figueroa who previously held the lightweight world championship. Figueroa took down a slew of veteran contenders on his way to championship status, knocking out Moises Flores, Oscar Escandon and Damien Vazquez on his ascent.

“We train hard for every fight and make sure we go 110% come fight night,” said Figueroa. “I expect Fulton to be flashy and slick with his movements, and perhaps he’ll want to mix it up a little as well, so we’re ready for anything. People know I always come to fight and with this being my second back-to-back fight against another undefeated world champion it makes this an exciting fight on paper and it should be even more exciting to see it live on September 18.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton (19-0, 8 KOs) faced impressive competition while rising up the 122-pound rankings to earn the opportunity that eventually saw him become world champion on SHOWTIME by besting Leo. In his last 13 professional fights, the 27-year-old has beaten eight previously undefeated fighters, including Leo, Josh Greer, Arnold Khegai, Adam Lopez and Luis Saul Rosario. Trained in his hometown by coach Wahid Rahim, Fulton has displayed sublime boxing skills that have allowed him to dominate opponents of varying styles and control fights from start to finish.

“We will have a new king of the division on a historic day,” said Fulton. “Training camp has been great, rough and dirty. I know where I need to be for this fight and I’m right there not running away from it. History will be made September 18 on Mexican Independence Day weekend in Las Vegas. Let’s celebrate with a bang!”

Owning a top-10 ranking at 122-pounds from multiple sanctioning bodies, Aleem (18-0, 12 KOs) put on the most impressive performance of his career in January to capture the interim WBA title on SHOWTIME. Aleem dominated in a battle of unbeatens, dropping Victor Pasillas four times before eventually stopping him in round 11. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, Nev., Aleem, 31, has stopped his past seven opponents inside the distance.

“It’s great to be back fighting on SHOWTIME,” said Aleem. “I’ve been waiting patiently, working hard in the gym, and now it’s go time. Eduardo Baez is a good fighter who is trying to make a name for himself, but he’s standing in my way of becoming world champion, and I’m going to take him out. I’m on a mission to prove I’m the king of the super bantamweight division, and the journey continues on September 18.”

The 26-year-old Baez (19-1-2, 6 KOs) will look to earn a career-best victory and build on back-to-back triumphs over previously unbeaten fighters when he takes on Aleem on September 18. Originally from Baja California, Mexico, Baez now fights out of Calexico, California as he nears his second stateside outing. Baez most recently won a decision over Abimael Ortiz in March, after his U.S. debut saw him defeat Narek Abgaryan in his U.S. debut in December 2020.

“I can’t wait for this opportunity against Ra’eese Aleem,” said Baez. “Success is the most precious treasure, the more you are willing to pay, the more valuable the prize will be. I will win this fight and we will all scream ‘viva Mexico!’”

The middle brother between WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne, Antonio Russell (18-0, 12 KOs) announced his arrival amongst the bantamweight division contenders with a technical decision over former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in December 2020 on SHOWTIME. The 28-year-old from Capitol Heights, Md. turned pro in 2015 after an impressive amateur career. After four wins in 2019, Russell kicked off 2020 defeating Jesus Martinez in February. Russell returns to action after his August 14 fight against former champion Emmanuel Rodriguez ended in a no-decision in round one due to a clash of heads.

“I’m excited to be back after I trained so hard for my last fight before it ended early,” said Russell. “Now, I’m just taking that same fight energy that I had for Emmanuel Rodriguez and bringing it on September 18 for my new opponent.”

The 25-year-old Barrios (24-2-5, 13 KOs) has not been beaten since 2014, a streak spanning 20 fights. Representing his native Tijuana, Mexico, Barrios has won his last eight contests since a 2018 draw against Jerwin Ancajas in a 115-pound title bout. After defeating Erick Hernandez and Willibaldo Garcia in 2020, Barrios knocked out Juan Gabriel Medina to begin his 2021. In addition to the draw against Ancajas, Barrios has fought then unbeaten Jose Martinez-Mercado to a draw twice while also earning the same result against then undefeated Antonio Nieves.

“I want to thank my whole team and everyone else who made this fight possible,” said Barrios. “It has been a long road for me. I’ve been looking for another title fight or a rematch with Ancajas, ever since our draw. We decided to move up to 118-pounds and I’ve just remained focused and worked hard for the next opportunity. Now I get to share the ring with a great and talented fighter in Gary Antonio Russell. On September 18, I will leave everything in that ring, put on a great fight for all boxing fans and leave victorious.”

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UNBEATEN SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONS BRANDON FIGUEROA AND STEPHEN FULTON JR. SET TO MEET IN TITLE UNIFICATION LIVE ON SHOWTIME SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 FROM PARK MGM IN LAS VEGAS – TICKETS GO ON SALE TODAY AT 10 A.M. PT!

LAS VEGAS (August 16, 2021) – Undefeated 122-pound world champions are set to square off as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. will meet in a title unification on Saturday, September 18 live on SHOWTIME in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the live event go on sale today at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions.

Figueroa vs. Fulton has been a much-discussed potential showdown for several years prior to the two unbeaten fighters joining the world championship ranks with career-best performances in 2021. Fulton struck first, dominating then-unbeaten Angelo Leo to capture the WBO title in January, while Figueroa made his own statement in stopping two-division champion Luis Nery to capture the WBC strap in May.

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GABRIELA FUNDORA WINS PRO DEBUT IN IMPRESSIVE FASHION ON FIGUEROA VS. NERY UNDERCARD ON SATURDAY NIGHT

(May 17, 2021) Last Saturday night, 5’ 9” super flyweight Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora made her successful professional boxing debut with an exciting unanimous four-round decision over fellow Californian southpaw Jazmin Valverde Medina.

Fighting on the undercard of Brandon Figueroa’s Showtime-televised WBC World and WBA Super World Super Bantamweight Championship-winning KO 7 over former world champion Luis Nery at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, the 19-year-old Fundora (1-0) dropped Medina in round two and cruised to an impressive near-shutout victory (scores: 40-35, 39-36 and 40-35).

The scores, however, are not indicative of the excitement the two women generated in an exciting punch-out. The heavy underdog Medina came to fight.

“I felt great!” said Fundora. “I’m glad I was able to showcase my talent on such a great platform on Showtime. I delivered a body shot and followed it up with a right hook that dropped her in the second round and every round after that, we mixed up the punches in bunches.”

A former accomplished amateur, Fundora says she’s relieved to have her first professional fight completed successfully. “We have been preparing for our debut for a while and now that we were able to get our first fight in the books,” she admitted. “We will keep building up from there. We have a great promoter who wants to keep us busy, so we will be starting camp Monday in preparation for his confirmation of our next date.”

Fundora is the daughter in a fighting family that also includes undefeated WBC #5-rated super welterweight contender Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora and her father/trainer Freddy Fundora. “I really liked the performance of both fighters,” said the elder Fundora, “from the very first round they both came in to win by throwing lots of punches with impressive speed. They showed what women’s boxing should look like. She (Gabriela) is a great student of the sport and all of her hard work and dedication paid off.”

“My sister did exactly what we train in camp to do and she showcased her skills with exciting strength!” added proud brother Sebastian.

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz says he’s happy with Lady Fundora’s performance and will be looking to keep her very busy throughout the rest of the year.

“She is special,” said Lewkowicz, who is also known for discovering previously unknown talents including superstars Sergio Martinez, Javier Fortuna, her popular brother Sebastian, super middleweight star David Benavidez, WBA Interim Featherweight champ Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez, former unified king Jeison “Banana” Rosario, undefeated Michel Rivera, KO punching South American Amilcar Vidal, and the all-time-great Manny Pacquiao. “I will keep Gabriela fighting as much as possible in 2021, to get her experience for a championship fight. It won’t take long before she’s prepared to face anyone in the world. She is a special fighter.”
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

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